Spring - Summer 2012 • $3 fedflyfishers.org
Conserving, Restoring & Educating Through Fly Fishing
FLY FISHING
A MONTANA
CRAYFISH FAIR
FISHING
INCREDIBLE
THE INSIDE SCOOP
ADVENTURE
Mending M end di more d ding r than h lines lilines. i . ines
For some For some,, fly fis fishing shing is mor more e than n a hobb hobby. y. IIt’s t’s a w way ay tto o heal heal.. A Att P Project rojec o t Healing W aters FFly ly Fishing, Fishing, w e tteach each fly fi shing and fly ttying ying g sk ills tto o disabled d ac tive dut Waters we fishing skills active dutyy militar personnel and vveterans, eterans, br inging them clo oser tto o ph ysical an nd emotional militaryy personnel bringing closer physical and rrecovery. ecovery. Help u us shar e the power power of the w ater with h those who need it most share water most..
Visit Vi sit us at projecthealingwaters.org pro ojecthealing gwaters.org Project P roject Healing W Waters aters Fly Fly Fishing, Fishing, Inc., Inc., is a 501(c)(3) 501(c)(3) non-profit non-pr on-profit organization. organization.
DEPARTMENTS Meet the Board
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FFF Guides Association Just Fishing A message from Chairman of the Board. Philip Greenlee
I Am a Member Meet Bob Griffin.
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Home Waters Fly fishing news and notes.
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Biology on the Fly All about crayfish, a widespread, diverse species of freshwater lobster. By Verne Lehmberg
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FEATURES 19
International Fly Fishing Fair
Imitating crayfish. By Verne Lehmberg 38
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Federation of Fly Fishers 5237 U.S. Highway 89 South, Ste.11 Livingston, MT 59047-9176 (406) 222-9369 • fax (406) 222-5823 www.fedflyfishers.org Office Manager: Rhonda Sellers • rhonda@fedflyfishers.org Fly Fishing Fair Coordinator: Jessica Atherton • jessica@fedflyfishers.org
Casting Certification/Clubs/Councils: Barbara Wuebber • fffoffice@fedflyfishers.org Bookkeeper: Marissa Hoffman • bookkeeper@fedflyfishers.org Guides Association/Education/Social Media: Judy Snyder • judy@fedflyfishers.org Collection/Library/Donations: Carin Wolfe • carin@fedflyfishers.org Receptionist/Membership/Merchandise: Gay Penney • membership@fedflyfishers.org
Flyfisher: Magazine of the Federation of Fly Fishers
Editor-in-Chief: Bill Toone Flyfisher is published for the FFF by: Keokee Co. Publishing, Inc. P.O. Box 722, Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208) 263-3573 • fax (208) 263-4045 keokee.com • flyfishermag@keokee.com Publisher: Chris Bessler Editors: Al and Gretchen Beatty Art Director/Designer: Jackie Oldfield Copy Editor: Billie Jean Gerke Editorial Assistant: Beth Hawkins Advertising Director: Clint Nicholson Regional Sales Manager: Scott Johnson PRINTED IN THE USA
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Flyfisher is the official publication of the Federation of Fly Fishers, published two times a year and distributed by mail free to members. Send membership inquiries, fees and change of address notices to the FFF Headquarters in Livingston, Montana, at the address above. Flyfisher is produced for the FFF by Keokee Co. Publishing, Inc. Address all editorial and advertising correspondence to the address at left. Contents of Flyfisher copyright © 2012 by the Federation of Fly Fishers. Written permission required to reprint articles. “FFF,” “FFF & Reel Design” and “FFF & Fish Design” are registered marks of the Federation of Fly Fishers. The next Flyfisher editorial deadline is September 5, 2012.
Please remember to recycle this magazine and any other appropriate material.
Fly Box The art of specialty flies. By Verne Lehmberg
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FFF Headquarters
Woman’s Outlook How to get your lady to fish with you. By Carol Oglesby
Fishing Crayfish Patterns Trout love crayfish, too. Here are some tips for successful fishing with this common trout prey. By Bill Toone
Casting Tactics for the warmwater side. By Tom Tripi
Big Bass Love Crayfish Great insight on how to attract bass with crayfish patterns. By Terry and Roxanne Wilson
Fly Tips Make ’dads move with the non-slip loop knot. By Kelly Glissmeyer
A Day’s Escape A day on a small river and magic with cutthroats comes to a sudden, exciting end. By Tom Jindra
At the Vise The Full Motion Crayfish. By John Johnson
Join us in Spokane, Washington, this July! 28
Focus on the Fly
Fly Fishing Heritage Fly fishers reach out to at-risk youth. By Will Godfrey
Cover photo: A crayfish tries to look threatening as a smallmouth bass considers a snack. See the story on page 30 and keep reading beyond that for a wealth of information on crayfish and fishing crayfish patterns. Photo by Eric Engbretson. Feature photos, clockwise from top, left: The fishing is great around Spokane, Washington, as will be the 2012 International Fly Fishing Fair this July. Even rainbows like crayfish. Photo by Bill Toone. Big bass such as this one make crayfish a regular item on their dinner menu. Photo by Terry and Roxanne Wilson. This beautiful cutthroat was one highlight of a day’s fishing adventure. Photo by Tom Jindra.
C o n s e r v i nMagazine g, Resto i n gFederation a n d E d u of c aFly t i nFishers g T h r o•u g h F l y- Summer F i s h i n g2012 Volume 45, No. 1 ofr the Spring
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Meet the FFF’s Directors and Officers Council Presidents Eastern Rocky Mountain: Pat Oglesby 970-434-3912 • pcoglesby@bresnan.net 3095 Evanston Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81504
Ohio: David Snyder 216-372-7751 • ohiofly1@gmail.com 67 Aaron Street, Berea, OH 44017
Florida: Bill Gunn 321-960-0082 • wtgunnjr@aol.com 101 Marion Street, Indian Harbor Beach, FL 32937
Oregon: Sherry Steele 541-420-5532 • steelefly@msn.com 69077 Chestnut Place, Sisters, OR 97759
Great Lakes: Jim Schramm 231-869-5487 • jdschramm@oceana.net P.O. Box 828, Pentwater, MI 49449
South Eastern: Anthony Hipps 336-249-0338 • anthony.hipps@syngenta.com 815 Maple Tree Road, Lexington, NC 27292
Great Rivers: Open Contact FFF National Office Rhonda@fedflyfishers.org
Southern: Michael E. Ames 870-243-2637 • aflycaster@sbcglobal.net 303 J D Drive, Harrisburg, AR 72432
Gulf Coast: Kyle Moppert 225-342-7551 • bowfin47@gmail.com 2170 Terrace Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Southwest: Michael Schweit 818-601-9702 • msangler@earthlink.net 7933 Jellico Avenue, Northridge, CA 91325
Mid-Atlantic: Jim Porter 301-621-4081 • jim@portergroup.com 10320 Little Patuxent Parkway, Ste. 1100 Columbia, MD 21044
Washington: Carl Johnson 360-863-9889 • flyfishalso@frontier.com P.O. Box 1206, Monroe, WA 98272
North Eastern: Leslie Wrixon 508-733-8535 • lesliewrixon@yahoo.com 27 College Road, Wellesley, MA 02482
Western Rocky Mountain: Lee Davison 208-538-1462 • lee@snakeriveroutfitters.com 238 N. 4700 E., Rigby, ID 83442
Northern California: Gene Kaczmarek 510-657-4570 • flyingties@aol.com 5432 Borgia Road, Fremont, CA 94538
THE FFF COUNCILS The Federation of Fly Fishers represents the interests of fly fishers across the United States through its regional councils. Much of the FFF’s most important work is carried out through its regional councils and the fly fishing clubs in those regions. If you’re a fly fisher, stay in touch with the activities of your council – and get involved! Western Rocky Mtn Washington Southwest Southern South East Oregon Ohio North East
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Northern California Mid Atlantic Great Rivers Great Lakes Gulf Coast Florida Eastern Rocky Mtn
Exec. Comm • Chairman of the Board/ President • Philip Greenlee: 530-356-9430 • philipgreenlee@att.net 1911 Bechelli Lane, Redding, CA 96002
Don Gimbel: 406-222-2932 gimbeldonald@gmail.com 22 Sunset Trail, Livingston, MT 59047
Exec. Comm • Secretary Herb Kettler: 434-977-6703 herbkettler@att.net 809 Winston Terrace, Charlottesville, VA 22903
David Lemke: 713-502-1809 dlemke@sbcglobal.net 4002 Aberdeen Way, Houston, TX 77025
Exec. Comm • Finance Committee Co-Chair Treasurer • Ron Winn: 321-723-3141(work) 321-777-3341• ronwin@bellsouth.net 315 Eutau Court, Indian Harbor, FL 32937
Bob Long: 208-520-5055 blong@spcpro.com 1002 Webster Street, Clarkston, WA 99403
Exec. Comm. • Fly Fishing Fair Steering Committee • Tilda Runner-Evans: 970-683-8879 • lewtildaevans@gmail.com 3602 “G” Road, Palisade, CO 81526
Dan McCrimmon: 604-602-0344 danmcc@uniserve.com 1270 Nicola St., Ste. 804, Vancouver, BC, V6G 2E9
Exec. Comm. • Bud Frasca: 208-762-2631 • grizzking@aol.com 2699 E Packsaddle Drive, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
Education Chair • Roger Miller: 559-226-4351 • rogfly1@hotmail.com 1107 E. Fedora, Fresno, CA 93704
Exec. Comm. – Membership Chair – Government Relations Chair • Howard Malpass: 318-780-3739 • whmalpass@hotmail.com 5825 Southern Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71106
Rick Pope: 214-821-8172 rpope@airmail.net 8115 Sovereign Row, Dallas, TX 75247
Exec. Comm • Financial Development Comm. Chair • FFF Foundation President Earl Rettig: 541-330-9670 • herettig@msn.com 19928 Antler Point Drive, Bend, OR 97702
Carl Ronk: 909-987-4051 flytyer@earthlink.net 8961 Whirlaway Court, Alta Loma, CA 91737
Exec. Comm • Legal Counsel (not a member of the BOD) Jim Schramm: 231-869-5487 jdschramm@oceana.net P.O. Box 828, Pentwater, MI 49449
Wolf Schrey: 616-648-1572 wmschrey@hotmail.com • 2141 Deer Hollow Drive S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Exec. Comm • Flyfisher Editor in Chief Bill Toone: 406-556-7241 • btoone@3riversdbs.net 198 Game Trail Road, Bozeman, MT 59715
David Snyder: 216-372-7751 ohiofly1@gmail.com 67 Aaron Street, Berea, OH 44017
Exec. Comm. • Conservation Comm. Chair Rick Williams: 208-938-9004 troutdna@cableone.net 524 West Two Rivers Drive, Eagle, ID 83616
Communications Committee Chair Museum Committee Chair • Sherry Steele: 541-420-5532 • steelefly@msn.com 69077 Chestnut Place, Sisters, OR 97759
Exec. Comm. • Finance Committee Co-Chair Carl Zarelli: 253-460-7752 • carlzarelli@comcast.net 4630 Memory Lane West, University Place, WA 98466 Don Gibbs: 303-526-9256 ddgibbs@ecentral.com 108 Chokecherry Road, Golden, CO 80401 Larry Gibbs: 253-820-0475 flytier015@q.com 18112 South Tapps Drive, Lake Tapps, WA 98391
Mike Stewart: 860-653-4203 tellicofly@yahoo.com 215 Loomis Street, North Granby, CT 06060 Robert Uselton: 870-935-5569 ruselton09@me.com P.O. Box 995, Jonesboro, AR 72033
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Board of Directors & Executive Committee
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
FFF Guides Association
T
he use of fly fishing guides literally around the world has been an integral element of the fly fishing experience for many anglers. The FFF Guides Association members are presented on the FFF website (www.fedflyfishers.org) in the form of an easily searchable database. This database is searchable by such means as names, locations and fishing regions.
Objective of the Association To ensure that the angler finds the guide best suited for him or her and best prepared to provide the fishing experience sought after.
Who Runs the Association? The Federation of Fly Fishers Board of Directors administers the program with input from guides around the United States and internationally. The Guides Association has many highly regarded fly fishing guides representing all aspects of fly fishing in line with the FFF motto All Fish All Waters.
What’s In It for You? By participating, guides are making the statement to their public that they believe they are qualified to provide a fly fishing experience worth having. Posting each individual guide’s credentials and contact information on the FFF website provides the fly fishing public with the opportunity to make a calculated choice of fishing guide and provides the guide with a greater opportunity to develop a constituency. ARGENTINA Patagonia SC de Bariloche..............Mauro Ochoa...54-9-2944-519220 info@patagoniadrift.com.ar AUSTRALIA Leopold...................................Peter West ........61-3-525-04711 petewest@iprimus.com.au CANADA Alberta Calgary .......................Mark Sokolowski .......(403) 259-6245 mark@fishingpoleguidinginc.com CENTRAL AMERICA Belize..................................Julian Cabral ........(501) 608-8130 whipraycaye@yahoo.com NEW ZEALAND Otago.........................................Ian Cole(006) 403 4437 870 iancole@xtra.co.nz NORWAY Sarpsborg........................Baard Nyborg ............47-41742066 baard1nyborg@hotmail.com UNITED KINGDOM Hampshire...........................Paul Eslinger ..44-0-1489-789962 paul@eslinger.com UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Alaska Anchorage..............................Chuck Ash........(907) 344-1340 briteh2o@alaska.net Anchorage...................Cecilia Kleinkauf.........(907) 274-7113 pudge@womensflyfishing.net Kodiak ..........................Leonard Robbins.....(907) 486-4093 adventure@possibilitiesunlimitedalaska.com Alabama Gadsden..............................Frank Roden........(256) 442-5919 rauction@bellsouth.net Orange Beach.....................Buddy Weir........(251) 550-4270 bweir-gulfport@msn.com Arkansas Bentonville ....Kenneth (Kenny) Richards.........(479) 531-5741 justfishinguides1@cox.net Cotter ......................................John Berry........(870) 435-2169 berrybrothers@infodash.com Cotter..........................Denis Dunderdale .......(870) 435-2355 dryfly@infodash.com Arizona Marble Canyon ................Wendy Gunn .......(800) 962-9755 tgunn@leesferry.com Peoria......................................Jon Barrett ........(602)-448-2148 jonbarretts@cox.net
California Cardiff by the Sea.....Conway Bowman........(619) 822-6256 Carmel Valley...................Joe McCarthy .......(408) 663-4000 El Segundo ........................Bill Matthews ........(310) 924-1359 Kernville ..................................Guy Jeans ........(760) 376-2040 Lake Arrowhead...........Lane R. Leonard........(909) 973-5177 Long Beach...............................Joe Libeu.........(310) 749-6771 Mammoth Lakes....Christopher Leonard ........(818) 288-3271 Mt. Shasta.........................Craig Nielsen ........(530) 518-2576 Olympic Valley.....................Matt Heron........(518) 225-6587 Redding .............................Todd LeBoeuf .......(530) 222-2728 Redding...........................Mike Michalak .......(530) 222-3555 Westchester .....Al (Al “Q”) Quattrocchi........(310) 202-1020 Colorado Colorado Springs .........Antonio Gibson........(719) 599-8481 Cortez.....................................Dale Smith .......(970) 759-3020 Littleton ..............................Chuck Prather .......(303) 979-3077 Thorton...............................Joe J. Egry IV........(303) 853-8133 Florida Amelia Island .....................James Tharin........(904) 491-4799 Edgewater ..................Drew Cavanaugh .......(352) 223-7897 Ft. Myers.............................Rick DePaiva .......(239) 246-8726 Jacksonville.................Capt. Rich Santos .......(904) 497-9736 Longwood ............................Chris Myers .......(321) 229-2848 Naples.............................William Baldus .......(239) 272-8027 Naples...................................Tom Shadley ........(239) 793-3370 Ormond Beach .......................Ray Jones .......(386) 675-7000 Punta Gorda...................Michael Manis........(941) 628-7895 Ruskin......................................John Hand.......(239) 842-7778 Sanibel Island .........................Mike Rehr .......(239) 472-3308 Sarasota..............................Rick Grassett........(941) 923-7799 Sarasota...........................Peter Greenan........(941) 232-2960 Satellite Beach...............Mike Badarack........(321) 863-0561 Spring Hill .....................Frank Bourgeois .......(352) 666-6234 Terra Ceia.........................Ray Markham ........(941) 228-3474 Winter Park...................Keith Kalbfleisch........(321) 279-1344 Georgia Blue Ridge .....................Gene Rutkowski .......(800) 206-8024 La Grange...........................Paul Hudson .......(706) 577-5347 St Simons Island .................David Edens........(706) 540-1276 Idaho St. Anthony ...................Michael Lawson .......(208) 558-7525 Stanley ..............................Julie Meissner ........(208) 774-8768 Kansas Saint George ....Paul E. (Sodie) Sodamann .......(785) 456-5654 Maine Gardiner............................Michael May .......(207) 582-6402 Maryland Queenstown ........Mark Sean Crawford........(410) 490-5942 Michigan Cedar ...............................David Schmidt........(231) 228-4030 Grand Ledge ..........Jeff (Bear) Andrews........(517) 290-7789 Lake Ann.........................Chuck Hawkins........(231) 228-7135 Taylor .............................Brian Meszaros........(734) 904-3474 Wellston...............................Ray Schmidt .......(888) 221-9056 Wolverine Lake .......................Joe Cyrek .......(248) 895-3858 Minnesota Detroit Lakes..................Jean-Paul Lipton........(651) 336-2404 Ely............................................Jim Blauch ........(218) 365-4106 Menahga .........................Doug Harthan.........(218) 640-3163 Mississippi Columbus.................Capt. Sid Caradine........(662) 328-5413 Montana Alder..........Jake and Donna McDonald .......(406) 842-5884 Big Timber.....................Channing Welin .......(406) 932-4368 Columbus ...............................Chris Fleck .......(406) 322-0202 West Yellowstone .................Bob Jacklin .......(406) 646-7336
conwayxbowman@gmail.com joewmccarthy@comcast.net bmatthews56@roadrunner.com guy@kernriverflyfishing.com lane1@earthlink.net jlspfa@ix.netcom.com chris@kittredge.net craig@shastatrout.com mheron@destinationhotels.com linnea1@charter.net mike@theflyshop.com alq@tornadodesign.la aegibson1@aol.com ffschuck@aol.com jjegry@hotmail.com captrt@bellsouth.net drcfishmaster@cfl.rr.com flynutt@aol.com rich@flyfishjax.com cmmyers@floridafishinglessons.com bill@flyfish19k.com captshadley@mangroveoutfitters.com gmnc1@cfl.rr.com flatscaptain@comcast.net tomatoesjh@yahoo.com captflyrod@aol.com snookfin@aol.com captpete@floridaflyfishing.com captmikebadarack@gmail.com info@alwaysfishing.com flatback@tampabay.rr.com capt-keith@saocf.com generut@tds.net jobillhud@bellsouth.net blueridgerods@hotmail.com mike@henrysforkanglers.com julie.sawtoothfishing@gmail.com sodie@flatslander.com mike@wildriverangler.com sc4472@yahoo.com
jbear@aol.com chuck@hawkinsflyfishing.com captbrian@greatlakesflyfishing.com schmidt@schmidtoutfitters.com joe@miriverworks.com mail@roughfisher.org info@moosetrackadventures.com front20outfitters@arvig.net captsid@cableone.net uco@3rivers.net channing@mtintouch.net chris.fleck@mcffonline.org bjacklin@jacklinsflyshop.com Continues on page 8
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF FLY FISHERS The fly-fishing voice of the world By Philip Greenlee, Chairman of the Board of Directors
B
y the time you get this copy of the magazine, the new International Federation of Fly Fishers (IFFF) website will be up and running. Our staff has helped bring the FFF and its website into the new electronic world of communication. The website positions us worldwide to have a better chance to be competitive in teaching fly fishing through conservation. There is no other organization in the world like the International Federation of Fly Fishers. Even though we are now truly an international organization, we can still honor our past by keeping in touch with the traditions of FFF. Those traditions include great fishing memories while remaining dedicated to conservation, education, other organizations like Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, and donating time to our expanding collection (museum). When we meet in Spokane later this year for our International Fly Fishing Fair, we will be honoring members who have given a lot of personal time and devotion to the FFF and in so doing I have found that giving recognition to others is a powerful tool in maintaining the foundation of the FFF. Another thing I like about the FFF is the fishing trip memories I was fortunate enough to experience. One I’d like to share with you involves two friends who loved to fly fish and also belonged to the FFF. Each year we would choose a new river to fish and explore, calling each new excursion a “fishing treasure hunt.” This particular October we decided Montana’s Bighorn River would be the focus of our attention. The weather was perfect and after a day of fishing, we returned to the Cottonwood Camp and built our cook fire. As I recall, this was the year the movie Dances with Wolves was in theaters across the country. I had purchased the soundtrack from the movie, and we decided to play it while we cooked. We opened both doors of my Blazer to hear the track since that was the only tape deck we had to enjoy the music. As the
ment of the Federation evening unfolded, we of Fly Fishers, so it is were soon dancing the focus of the FFF’s around the fire. Further magazine Flyfisher. into the evening, sprayNot just by sharing ing brandy from our information from and mouths into the fire and about our clubs and watching the liquid flare councils, but through into the night seemed interesting and informlike a good idea. It cerative articles and tainly helped us get rid columns. In doing so, of stress from our reguour aim is to not only lar day-to-day jobs we Philip Greenlee, keep our members had happily left behind Chairman of the Board of Directors abreast of what the for the short time we Federation is doing were on the river. The but also to help them to be more next morning we went to the nearby knowledgeable and skilled in the sport grocery store in Fort Smith for supwe all love.” Also, I take my hat off to plies and, as we entered the building, our publisher Keokee Creative Group. we heard people talking about the Their staff provides expert advice not music and Indians dancing around the only in putting together the magazine, fire at the Cottonwood Camp the night but they also give us information, before. I wonder what they were talkideas and graphics to keep our new ing about. I always remember this trip website interesting. before I go fishing. For some reason, The International Fly Fishing Fair, to this day, every time I know I’m in Spokane, Washington this year, is going fishing I get this feeling of another way of communicating our excitement and knowing this is the goals to the rest of the world. It is just stuff that binds us. around the corner and promises to be While on the subject of the a fun time you don’t want to miss. We Bighorn, did you know the FFF has a have joined forces with Gonzaga dedicated member named Frank University, the city of Spokane with Johnson who runs a camp for children their new convention center, and on the River? Each year he pays the the Spokane Sports airfare and accommodations to Association. The effort and bring 20 underprivileged energy in that community children to his camp to is unbelievable. The spend the week fishing event will be a great and learning about the opportunity to not only outdoors. Now that’s the communicate but to also spirit of the FFF I’m trying form more of those “FFF to convey to all of you. memories” and to reenergize Thank you, Frank, for what our commitment to the goals of you do for the FFF and the time the organization. you spend doing so. The way it currently appears, our The IFFF magazine, Flyfisher, is a event in Spokane will become the new major communication avenue with our standard for future FFF Fly Fishing membership. We are fortunate to have Fairs. It is a good feeling to have the three seasoned Federators, Bill Toone, entire city of Spokane behind our our Editor-in Chief, with Gretchen and event. In return, the city will enjoy a Al Beatty as editors. I asked Bill Toone boost to their economic base through to give us some insight about Flyfisher the dollars we bring into the commumagazine. He wrote: “Conserving, nity. Everyone wins. I’ll see you in Restoring and Educating through Fly Spokane this July. Fishing; just as this is the mission stateFlyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Just Fishing
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
I Am a Member BOB GRIFFIN Residence Bend, Oregon FFF Council Oregon Member since 2009 (Life Member) Home Waters Central Oregon lakes and streams
Favorite fish
Rainbow trout
Memorable fishing experience I was fully hooked when a 23-inch brown took a No. 10 Variant on the Madison below Hebgen Dam while I waited for my uncle, Bob Smith, to build our sandwiches so we could go for a day in the “canyon,” now deep under Quake Lake. Almost 60 years later, I can still see a very lucky cast drop and quickly be inhaled by that magnificent fish. Best angling experience … I fooled a very wary 5-inch rainbow in a very small creek, high on the side of Mount Hamilton while attending San Jose State.
FFF clubs and met great folks and gained local knowledge. Fly Fishermen for Conservation in Fresno was one of those reasons. I was an active member when they joined efforts to form the FFF. As a retiree in Bend for 25 years, I am very appreciative of the strong FFF and Oregon Council support for our Central Oregon Flyfishers conservation and youth programs. COF developed, with later help from others, Kokanee Karnival. We reach a significant portion of area third and fourth graders with eight programs; two are all-day outings, held twice a year with 12 classrooms. We also run Redbands, a program for older youth.
What others say Sherry Steele, Oregon Council president said: Bob Griffin is a joy to be friends with and is a strong supporter of the Federation of Fly Fishers. He has encouraged me from the very start of my involvement. His constant support within our affiliate club, Central Oregon Fly Fishers, is an example of the fabric that makes up this great organization.
Reason for being a member As my work life moved me, I joined
GUIDES ASSOCIATION Continued from page 6 West Yellowstone ..............Robert Orsini .......(406) 539-2796 Willow Creek...........................Rick Ruoff .......(208) 787-2657 North Carolina Gastonia...................................Paul Rose........(704) 616-6662 Granite Falls ........................Ryan Dunne.......(828) 446-5552 Grantsboro .............Capt. Doug Sinclair........(252) 745-3373 New Hampshire Byfield ...............................Steve Murphy .......(603) 490-0970 Tilton...................................Harry Mehos .......(603) 286-7766 New Mexico Arroyo Seco....................Steve P. Morris........(575) 776-5703 Aztec.................................John Tavenner .......(888) 339-9789 Santa Fe .............................Jarrett Sasser .......(505) 988-7688 New York LaFayette ...........................Michael Lane........(315) 558-0888 Ohio Gambier .........................Graham Stokes.........(740) 501-3180 Oklahoma Canadian.......................Joepaul Meyers........(918) 424-5545 Oregon Eagle Point........................David Roberts........(541) 601-5658 Sisters................................Daniel Anthon ........(541) 977-7874 Pennsylvania New Bloomfield...................Eric Richard........(717) 789-4706 Venetia ..............................Thomas Zacoi ........(724) 941-2431 Rhode Island Newport......................................Jim Barr........(401) 465-8751
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orsalak@aol.com
captpaulrose@gmail.com appflyguides@yahoo.com flyfish@pamlico.net lawnranger2856@aol.com harry@northstarguide.com steve@cutthroatflyfishing.com tavenner@zianet.com flyfishwithjs@hotmail.com weedrift@aol.com grahamstokes@mac.com ironhorsejpm@hotmail.com oretroutbum@aol.com dan@dananthon.com covetedwaters@embarqmail.com tommytrout2@msn.com info@skinnywaterchartersri.com
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Does your council or club have an individual you would like to be considered for a future “I Am a Member” Profile? If so, please e-mail Bill Toone, Flyfisher Editor-in-Chief, at btoone@3riversdbs.net with your consideration. Please include a brief bio (25 to 40 words) along with the reason you feel this person exemplifies the best of the Federation of Fly Fishers.
Tennessee Bristol .......................................Travis Burt .......(423) 844-5400 Franklin....................................Jeff Barrett........(615) 330-0462 Jonesborough ......................Nes Levotch........(423) 753-9190 Kingsport...........................Larry R. Ratliff .......(423) 239-4655 Murfreesboro...........................Steve Nix........(615) 579-9980 Texas Aransas Pass........................Mike O’Dell........(361) 438-1866 Bellaire.......................Mark M. Marmon........(713) 666-8868 Bluffton.................................Keith Barnes .......(325) 247-8087 Corpus Christi ................Cody Roesener ........(916) 531-0078 Corpus Christi .....................Steven Utley........(361) 334-2336 Hondo ...............................Tom Callahan ..........(210) 213-1111 Rock Port............................Chuck Scates........(361) 727-1200 Utah Park City.................Brandon Bertagnole .......(866) 649-3337 Virginia Bluemont ........................Dusty Wissmath........(540) 554-2716 Washington Arlington...............James “Chris” Grieve ........(425) 359-3137 Asotin..............................Kenny Thornton .......(509) 243-4268 Seattle ....................................Ryan Smith .......(425) 765-2035 Wisconsin Kenosha...............................Scott Kessler .......(262) 553-9321 Richland Center.................David Barron .......(608) 585-2239 Wyoming Cody .............................Roy (Gene) Hall .......(307) 254-2227 Jackson ...................................Paul Bruun........(307) 733-5173 Pinedale...................................Mike Kaul.........(307) 231-1169 Thermopolis....................Rooster Kersten........(307) 864-2763
tburt@chartertn.net jlb-outfitters@comcast.net nesema@preferred.com rkratliff@embarqmail.com sl.nix@comcast.net captmikeap@yahoo.com mcubed@usa.net keith@highlandlakesflyfishing.com captcody@theproducerstexas.com steven@blueheronadventures.com capt-tom@sbcglobla.net cscates@usawide.net bbertagnole@hotmail.com
chris.nffa@Gmail.com thorntrout@tds.net ryan@avidangler.com skes@execpc.com dbarron@wicw.net wyldgene@tctwest.net pmb16@hotmail.com mikekaul@wyoming.com rkersten@rtconnect.net
Home Waters To supp o tion, re rt any FFF con storatio servan progra m, plea or education se mak deducti e a tax ble con tr The Fed eration ibution to: 5237 U of Fly F ish .S. Livingsto Hwy. 89 S., S ers te. n, MT 5 9047-9 11 176
CONSERVATION NEWS Elwha River Facts and Fiction By Will Atlas
D
Index of Articles Elwha River Facts and Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Saving Yellowstone Lake Cutthroat Trout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Flyfisher Magazine Goes Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 FFF Events and Casting Certification Calendars . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 A New Website for the FFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Project Healing Waters Exceeds Its 2011 Goals . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Photo by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Virtual Digital Library
newly available habitat by swamping the river with hatchery spawners. am removal got under way this Agencies and the Elwha Tribe have past fall on the Elwha River, argued repeatedly that the hatchery promarking the beginning of what is grams are needed to protect wild populaundeniably the single greatest river tions from the sediment that will be restoration project in history. By the sumunleashed by the dam removal, and have mer of 2013, Elwha and Glines canyon spent $16 million to construct a new dam will likely be fully removed and hatchery. First and foremost, a hatchery more than 90 miles of river – the vast designed solely for conservation purposes majority of which is protected in Olympic operates under a strict set of biological National Park – will be reopened to guidelines intended to minimize the anadromous fish. Given the quality and impact of hatchery operations on wild quantity of the habitat, there is every reastocks. Even if the concerns about the son to believe sediment’s impact on wild salmon spawnwild salmon You can help conserve, ing in the lower river are warranted, and steelhead restore and protect our Salmon eggs are poured into incubator releasing 4 million juvenile fish each year populations trays. Will the resulting hatchery spawnprecious fisheries. Read the is entirely inconsistent with the goal of will recover ers thwart the recovery of wild salmon? red patch at the top of the recovering wild salmon in the Elwha. quickly. page to read how. Furthermore, the tribe has been Unfortunadamant that releases of non-native Chambers Creek steelately, the recovery strategy agreed head continue, despite the fact that these fish are intended upon by state and federal agencies entirely for harvest. An expected five-year fishing moratoin collaboration with the Lower rium will mean that the for-harvest fish will instead spawn Elwha Klallam Tribe will rely among the few remaining wild steelhead in the Elwha. almost entirely on hatchery suppleOther planned actions including the mass out planting of mentation, placing little faith in the hatchery juvenile Chinook into the Upper Elwha fly in the ability of naturally occurring populations face of the scientific principles that should be guiding the of fish that remain in the Elwha to recolonize recovery. Nowhere in the plan are specifics of what the the pristine habitat of the upper river. Unless recovery goals are for wild salmon and steelhead in the something changes fast, nearly 4 million juvenile Elwha. Also, there is no timetable for the discontinuation of hatchery salmon will be released into the Elwha each hatchery operations in the watershed, giving managers a year, thwarting the ability of wild salmon to colonize the
Fly-Fishing Jobs for Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Trout in the Classroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Fly Tying Group On the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Future Outdoors People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 FFF National Board Voters Ballot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Invasive Species Advisory Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Photo by Rick Williams.
CONSERVATION NEWS be the demise of a generation of juvenile salmon spawned in the lower river. So what did they do? They captured returning adult salmon and transported them into the river above the dam where they successfully spawned, seeding the next generation of fish that will eventually return to an undammed river. This strategy could have well worked on the Elwha; however, impatience over the amount of time required for wild populations to recover has led agencies to accept a hatchery-based plan. Their impatience undermines the entire purpose of the $325 million dam removal project in the first place: restoring wild ESA-listed Chinook, steelhead and bull trout. Lower Elwha Klallam tribal members have every right to harvest salmon in the Elwha and, given a few years, recovered wild populations will provide amply for tribal fishermen. Harvestable populations of wild salmon are an important benefit of a
Is a hatchery raceway the future of the Elwha River?
blank check to manage the Elwha for hatchery production in perpetuity. Contrasting the Elwha recovery strategy are the actions taken on White Salmon River in Washington just this past fall where a dam was removed to make way for the recovery of wild salmon and steelhead. Like the Elwha, the dam removal caused a severe, short-term release of sediment which had been trapped behind Condit Dam. Biologists there were similarly concerned that high sediment loads would
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healthy river ecosystem, and tribal fishers are guaranteed an equal share of any allowable catch under the law. But in choosing to adopt a recovery plan that allows for operation of an industrial-scale hatchery program throughout the colonization process, we are setting the bar extremely low for wild salmon. This short-sighted approach ensures the wild Elwha ecosystem will never live up to its potential. That is why the FFF has joined the Wild Fish Conservancy, Wild Steelhead Coalition and Conservation Angler in a lawsuit challenging the legality of the hatchery programs and the recovery plan. Given the chance, the Elwha can and will demonstrate that wild salmon in a healthy river will provide amply for the people of the region and for the Elwha ecosystem. Will Atlas is the chair of the FFF Steelhead Committee. Learn more about the issues affecting wild salmon and steelhead by visiting www.ospreysteelheadnews.blogspot.com or www.ospreysteelhead.org where you can subscribe to their publication The Osprey; Conservation Journal of Wild Salmonids.
Saving Yellowstone Lake Cutthroat Trout By Rick Williams
O
ne of the iconic species native to Yellowstone National Park is the Yellowstone cutthroat trout; however, Yellowstone cutthroat trout are in trouble. The native cutthroat trout population in Yellowstone Lake and its tributary ecosystem is now reduced to less than 10 percent of its historic population due primarily to depredation by illegally introduced lake trout! Lake trout were initially reported in Yellowstone Lake in 1994 and have subsequently increased dramatically in numbers. Yellowstone cutthroat trout have become the major prey of lake trout in the lake, resulting in a sharp decline in abundance of cutthroat trout in Yellowstone Lake as well as the river above Yellowstone Falls. Efforts have been under way for more than a decade to reduce lake trout numbers using gillnetting, purseseining and electrofishing (see Koel et al 2005 summary from Fisheries
C ALENDAR FFF EVENTS
Flyfisher Magazine Goes Green
April 2012
By Rhonda Sellers, FFF Office Manager
L
2011 Autumn
ast year the FFF introduced the Flyfisher magazine article-content electronic version of Flyfisher deadline date is published at the botmagazine. Members now have tom of the contents page just inside the opportunity to get the electhe cover. Please submit your articles tronic version rather than the paper copy. You can check out a sample of the digital version at www.flyfisher Choices on REDFISH magazine.com. If FLATS G you are interested FISHIN IA SLOVENBLU EGILLS in receiving the Become a S S A MIDGE BAUTUMN electronic version MA LO T JORCAL U O ALL AB S WATERS and reducing the DAMSEL COASTAL BRTOWNS ALER amount of paper in the environment, e-mail TEXAS fffoffice@fedflyfishers.org. Electronic subscribers will receive for consideration before that date. an e-mail each time the magazine is Remember we won’t have room for all available to download. Follow the articles submitted, but we need stories instructions in the e-mail to view a from all over the FFF world to procopy of the latest magazine as well as duce the best issue possible. You may previous issues. If you sign up the FFF submit your content to the editor at thanks you and so do the FISH! AlBeatty2@aol.com. 2012 •
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Southeastern Fly Fishing Festival 27-29 Unicoi State Park Lodge, Helen, Georgia, www.fffsec.org
May 2012 Washington Council Fly Fishing Fair 4-5 Ellensburg, Washington, www.washingtoncouncilfff.org
June 2012 Fly Fishing School 15-16 Roscommon, Michigan, contact Jim Schramm at jdschramm@oceana.net
July 2012 47th Annual International FFF 10-14 Fly Fishing Fair Red Lion Hotel & Convention Center, Spokane, Washington, contact Jessica Atherton, jessica@fedfly fishers.org, www.federationconclave.org
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Yellowstone Lake where native cutthroat trout are endangered.
that describes the problem and some of the attempted solutions: www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/upload/ introduced_fishes.pdf. In January 2012, the Federation of Fly Fishers joined with the U.S. Geological Survey, the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Trout Unlimited and the National Parks Conservation Association to raise funds to support Yellowstone National Park’s efforts to conserve native fish and save the Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Partners, including FFF and TU, have raised significant funds to support a radio telemetry tracking study of lake trout
in Yellowstone Lake. But much more is needed. The Yellowstone lake trout telemetry study began in summer 2011. Tracking is expensive but necessary to determine lake trout movements and spawning bed locations throughout Yellowstone Lake. Participation by FFF and partners will allow the telemetry study to expand by increasing the number of lake trout that are radiotagged, as well as increasing the number and distribution of receivers throughout the lake. This information will allow managers to target suppression activities (traps, gillnetting, spawning bed disruption) to reduce lake trout numbers in the Yellowstone Lake ecosystem and set the stage for rebuilding Yellowstone cutthroat trout abundance in Yellowstone National Park. FFF funding to support this keystone project has been provided thus far by FFF’s National Conservation Fund ($1,000), Great Lakes Council ($1,000), and the Western Rocky Mountain Council ($1,000). Donations to support this important project from
October 2012 Southern Council Conclave and Fly Fishing Fair Mountain Home, 4-6 Arkansas, www.southerncouncilfff.org
2012 FFF C ASTING INSTRUCTOR CERTIFIC ATION The following events offer FFF Casting Instructor Certification. Pre-registration is required. Call 406-222-9369 to register. There is a $100 fee for Certified Instructor (CI) Testing plus a $50 fee if you pass; $175 fee for Master Instructor (MA) Testing plus $50 pass fee; $175 for Two-Handed Casting Instructor (THCI) Testing plus $50 pass fee. You must also be a current FFF member.
April 14, CI, MCI, THCI Test #1218, Long Beach, California, contact Joe Liebeu, Long Beach Casting Club April 19, CI Test #1215, Cressy, Tasmania, contact Peter Hayes, hayes@flyfish tasmania.com.au April 19, CI, MCI Test #1212, Furstenfeldbruck, Germany, contact William van der Vorst, info@dutchrods.com
April 20-21, Continuing Education for CI’s Texas Shootout (first-time CI class), Steve Hollensed stevehollensed@ texoma.net April 28, CI Test #1211, Helen, Georgia, contact Eric Cook, www.fffsec.org/ Z_FESTIVAL12.html April 29, CI, MCI Test #1213, Ukraine, contact Lars Bentsen, lars@troutfly.dk
Schedule subject to change – see most current schedule with details at www.fedflyfishers.org/Events/GeneralCal endar.aspx
individuals or more FFF Councils would be appreciated. Visit the Federation of Fly Fisher’s website, www.FedFlyfishers.org, to donate to the Yellowstone Lake Trout Telemetry Study. Rick Williams is from Eagle, Idaho, where he serves on the FFF Board of Directors, the Casting Board of Governors, and is a co-owner of the Idaho Angler, a premier fly shop in Boise.
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A NEW WEBSITE FOR THE FFF By Rhonda Sellers, FFF Office Manager
T
he Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) has long been an organization built on hard work and volunteerism. The strong sense of purpose and dedication started with the organizing committee for the first FFF Conclave in Oregon in the ’60s and has continued for almost 50 years. People just seem to come out of the woodwork with their hands raised saying, “I’m here! What do you need?” One of the many recent examples of people who recogJeff Reed volunteered to nized a need upgrade the FFF website. is Jeff Reed, who materialized out of Montana’s Paradise Valley and volunteered his time to help bring the FFF’s message “Conserving, Restoring & Educating Through Fly Fishing” to the world via the website www.fedflyfishers.org. I’ve had the good fortune to work with Reed over the last few months as we moved data, redesigned the website and brought its management inhouse. His web design skills and dedication to the FFF’s message are a tribute to him and to the many volunteers who give so willingly of their time so the Federation can exist and promote the sport of fly fishing. I recently sat down with Reed and conducted a short interview with him. I’m sharing it with you so you might get a glimpse into the soul of the man who asked, “What can I do to help?” when we needed it the most. Q. Why did you decide to give your time and talent to the FFF? A. The FFF is an American tradition that attempts to honor the sport of fly fishing, like the PGA tries to honor golf. Yes, the money is different, but the honor and dignity is the same. Although I’m from the younger generation, I respect the “class” that the FFF brings to fly fishing while at the same time being a place where people can just get together and have fun with their common sport. That’s why I gave my expertise to the cause of
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
the FFF. It’s something I’m proud to support. Q. What was your goal in developing a new website for the organization? A. Simple: The FFF is first and foremost about the communication of fly fishing information and causes, and secondarily about people actually getting together face-to-face to enjoy and improve the ecosystem of fly fishing. This first objective simply cannot be accomplished without the Internet. In fact, Internet technology is the No. 1 way for the FFF to grow its membership and further the communication of its causes. Hence, it needed investment and it needed effort put into it. There is much more to be done. But, if the membership helps by contributing relevant and free content, it will become the No. 1 destination website for fly fishing information in the world. That’s my goal. Go big or go home. Q. How do you think the website helps the organization grow and prosper? A. Content is king (or queen) on the Internet. As we improve the content on the FFF website, it will naturally drive those interested in fly fishing to the website, both advertisers and individuals, who in turn will help fund the educational and environmental goals of the FFF. The FFF members have a wealth of knowledge that will be unlocked via our website. Not for profit, not to be “cool” and “glitzy,” and not for personal gain, but for the love of the sport.
See what I mean about looking to the soul of the person? He truly did materialize out of the Paradise Valley exactly at the time when we needed him. I’ve included a short biography so all of you can get a better sense of who he is and what makes him tick. Rivers Bend Lodge owner Jeff Reed was raised on the Yellowstone River in Paradise Valley, Montana, hunting, fishing and foraging, and many times getting lost in the Absaroka (aka “People of the Crow”) Mountains that ramble through
Yellowstone National Park and from the backyard of Rivers Bend Lodge (www.rivers bendlodge.com). With careers as an ancient history professor, author of religious studies and software technology executive, his unfeigned passion is sustainable yet abundant, living and sharing his knowledge of the local waters, mountains and prairies to the countless fly fishers and outdoorseekers that travel to southwest Montana. He currently focuses on providing a broad range of technology consulting services to the outdoor hunting and fishing industries. Reed has developed a website for the Federation that comes with new features and rich content, as well as the opportunity to use technology to manage the business in a more efficient way. The website has blogs, educational videos and materials that help users learn about our great sport. Additional contributors to the project include Brian O’Keefe (www.brianokeefephotos.com), Dan Anthon (www.dananthon.com), Carl McNeil (www.ontheflyproduc tions.com), Keokee Publishing (www.keokee.com), and many volunteers who have given their time to review and edit content during the process. Members who register on the site can enter a profile and biography as well as upload a picture. It’s not just a website but a content management system that provides many benefits. We hope the members and general public enjoy the new look. Check it out at www.fedflyfishers.org. Rhonda Sellers is from Livingston, Montana, where she works as the Federation of Fly Fishers’ office manager. She may be reached at rhonda@fedflyfishers.org.
PROJECT HEALING WATERS EXCEEDS ITS 2011 GOALS Photo by Steve Hasty
By Carole Katz
P
roject Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF) surpassed its goal for 2011 to run 100 programs, finishing the year with more than 119 locations in 41 states. Ninetyseven programs are in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, 10 in Department of Defense hospitals, seven in Warrior Transition Units and others are in numerous locations. Expansion of the original program at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in 2005 has been facilitated by a close relationship with the FFF and many of its member clubs. We are indebted to the tireless efforts of the 42 FFF clubs managing programs in 47 locations. The first club to start a PHWFF program was Long Beach Casting Club, in May 2007, and the most recent FFF club to join is Fly Fishers for Conservation, in Fresno in January 2012; both are in California. Media coverage has been outstanding. PHWFF has been featured in several episodes of the “Fly Rod Chronicles” weekly TV show each year and showcased in countless newspapers and magazines all over the country. Filmmaker Steve Hasty has been visiting many programs to film fishing trips and classes for an upcoming PHWFF documentary. In July, Douglas Dear, chairman of the board of trustees, was named L.L. Bean Outdoor Hero after nationwide voting. A few months later, PHWFF won the Toyota Halftime Handoff during “Sunday Night Football.” PHWFF will be in Spokane, Washington, with the FFF this summer. The second Regional Rendezvous will be held immediately before the Fly Fishing Fair. The rendezvous is two days of engagement by the regional coordinators aimed at sharing best practices, discussing common problems and effective solutions. On the third day, the national board of trustees will have its meeting, and then we will play an active role in the fair itself for the seventh consecutive year by hosting a workshop about PHWFF and an information booth. Again this year, wounded warriors and disabled veterans will be present. If you’re going to be at the fair and want to learn more about participation in PHWFF, come to the workshop or booth.
Guide Tom Johnson, left, helps veteran Jerry Ramirez hold a nice salmon that was taken on the Pere Marquette River by the Flint Rainbow Club, Baldwin, Michigan.
Why be part of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing? The obvious reason is to give back to those who have risked so much in service to our country. Beyond that, volunteers may capitalize on its nationally recognized name and publicity and take advantage of discounted prices from many manufacturers. The $1.4 million budget for 2012 not only provides substantial financial support to the local programs but also supports future growth. And, participants are eligible for national fly fishing trips each year. During 2011, PHWFF conducted 26 national trips that took 76 participants to some of the finest fishing locations in the United States. Additionally, PHWFF took many more participants
to local venues. International programs have provided global recognition and this year generated exchange trips with allies in Canada (Project Healing Waters Canada) and the United Kingdom (Fishing for Heroes). Our mission is straightforward: Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and veterans through fly fishing and fly tying education and outings. We provide opportunities for participants to learn fly fishing, tying, casting and rod building with experienced volunteers in both the classroom setting and on the water. PHWFF is unique in that volunteers have regular, ongoing contact with the participants for classes and outings, during which a considerable amount of camaraderie and relationship building occurs. If you would like to join the nationwide network of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing programs, call Sandy Pappaianni at 301-399-7396 or access the national office or any of the regional coordinators through the “Contact Us” page at www.projecthealingwaters.org. Carol Katz is the national trustee for Project Healing Waters from Southern California.
FLY-FISHING JOBS FOR VETERANS Our good friends at Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing recently notified us about an employment opportunity for veterans. Lewis and Clark Expeditions is hiring fly-fishing guides, gear-boaters, and shop assistants for their 2012 Smith River season. If you are a veteran looking for work please contact Mike Geary at Lcexpe@aol.com, 406-449-4632 or check out www.lewisandclarkexpeditions. net/jobs.htm. Information provided by David Folkerts with Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc., P.O. Box 695, LaPlata, Maryland 20646
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Photo by Chuck Dinkel.
TROUT IN THE CLASSROOM Motivating Maryland Students While Impacting the Environment By Chuck Dinkel
W
hen Phil Greenlee, FFF chairman of the board, contacted members of the Potomac Valley Fly Fishers (PVFF) in 2009 about his pending visit, one of the “must do” items on his agenda was a visit to Monocacy Middle School (MMS) in Frederick, Maryland. In 2008, this school was the first to benefit from a $1,000 FFF Conservation Grant. Today, due to this grant, MMS and four other Frederick County schools are participants in a program called Trout in the Classroom (TIC). TIC is a program focused on helping to raise a generation of environmentally aware and involved students. In the past six years, the number of schools supported by PVFF has grown from one to 14. Trout in the Classroom provides a way for young people to become stewards of the environment through a meaningful and enjoyable combination of hands-on and classroom experiences. Because trout require pure cold water to thrive, TIC effectively demonstrates to the students the importance of good quality water through the lifecycle of the trout. Early in the year, Maryland schools
receive fertilized rainbow trout eggs and appropriate food. Once the eggs hatch, students monitor the life cycle of the hatched alevins as they grow into fry and fingerlings. Each day the students replace about two gallons of water in the tanks, monitor the water temperature, carefully test the water chemistry, and of course feed the fish. In late spring, the students release the fingerlings at a Department of Natural Resources approved site – often no more than a short bus ride from the school. On release day, PVFF members transport the fingerlings to the release site in aerated coolers, assist students in collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates, arrange visits to a local fish hatchery, conduct tours of stream restoration projects, and demonstrate fly casting and tying. The program provides an opportunity for the FFF and its member clubs to positively affect students while making an impact on the environment – all with a minimal cost to the school district. During tough economic times, schools appreciate the financial help and support that clubs such as PVFF bring to the equation. The real expenditure to the club is about four
Andrea Maruskin’s (not pictured) Monocacy Middle School 6th grade science students (left to right) Haven Silvio and Tasha Freed share their Trout in the Classroom project with the FFF’s Phil Greenlee during a recent visit to their school.
hours or less to deliver eggs and trout food, serve as classroom guest speakers, provide guidance during field trips, and help with the setup and maintenance of the systems. Monocacy Middle School teacher Andrea Maruskin sums up the program best: “Trout in the Classroom brings science content taught in my classroom to life, allowing students to apply scientific skills learned in a meaningful way, and extending science far beyond the walls of our classroom.” The TIC program is a classic win-win for the FFF, the clubs and especially for the students. Consider starting the program in your area. The benefits can be far-reaching. Chuck Dinkel is a past president of PVFF and co-coordinator of Trout in the Classroom for the state of Maryland.
FLY TYING GROUP ON THE MOVE Educating Flytiers and Fly Tying Instructors By Frank Johnson
Photo by BT’s Photography
F
FF Fly Tying Group membership has increased 39 percent over the past six months, and group leadership is proud of this growth. This increase can be attributed to the additional exposure of the group on the part of the Board of Governors, Membership Committee Chairman Mike Stewart and the production of a membership brochure. The Fly Tying Group would encourage Frank Johnson performs his all FFF members fly tying magic at the vise. interested in
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
fly tying and fly tying education to join the group, become involved and take part in the FTG activities. Membership information is available at www.FedFlyfishers.org or by contacting Mike Stewart at tellicofly@yahoo.com. Having adopted a strategic plan in 2011, the FTG now has a direction with group goals. We are moving toward our goals with continued work on the development of the Directory of Fly Tying Instructors and Demonstrations Tiers. An extensive list of tiers has been gathered in our initial efforts, and the group is seeking additional instructors and demo tiers to add to our list. Questionnaires regarding teaching and tying activities are being circulated to those on the lists. Information gathered will be used to expand and enhance
the Fly Tying Instructors’ Resource developed by James Ferguson. All tying instructors and demo tiers interested in participating should contact Frank Johnson at bighornjohnsons@gmail.com. The Fly Tying Group can learn from your experience and expertise. FFF tiers and instructors can help move the FFF into a leadership position in fly tying education. For the first time, the FTG will be sponsoring Fly Tying Classes at the International Fly Fishing Fair in Spokane. A number of classes will be presented, including a Basic Fly Tying Class for women only. Registration information for the FTG-sponsored fly tying classes can be found on the FFF website. Frank Johnson from Sheridan, Wyoming, is a longtime Federator, author of the FTG Strategic Plan, and recipient of the Buz Buszek Memorial Award for fly tying excellence.
FUTURE OUTDOORS PEOPLE By Chris O’Byrne
Exercise your right – Vote!
the next generation Ballot for the FFF Board of Directors into fly fishing. After Indicate your vote by checking boxes adjacent to each nominee. much discussion the d d ve eld ve eld panel agreed that pro ithh pro ithh p p A A W W while our Federation q q Tilda Runner-Evans q q David Lemke works at many different functions, encourq q Don Gibbs q q Rick Williams aging the next generaq q Don Gimbel q q Ron Winn tion must be placed at I certify I am a member of the FFF. the top. I couldn’t agree more. Name ________________________________________ When I’m Address _______________________________________ outdoors with young people, City ______________________________ State _______ I’m often ZIP _______________ Phone _____________________ reminded of Learn more about the directors on FedFlyfishers.org the fact that the attractions that drew me outside are still there. Recently ing 5-inch bluegill, screeching over the I was lucky enough to volunslime on a fresh-caught bass, and askteer at a youth fly fishing ing for more materials to tie just one camp. Young people were more fly. The level of enthusiasm was Here is a good example of a positive youth outdoors wading happily into a pond, program where the author, Chris O’Byrne, is teaching at Continues on page 16 high-fiving each other for catcha youth camp with two other FFF instructors.
T
he Florida Fly Fishing Expo in Kissimmee, Fla., last October was a wonderful event. One of the functions I especially enjoyed was the Round Table Discussion with Chico Fernandez, Dave Whitlock, Flip Pallot and Captain John Hand. A number of fishing topics were examined at this session, but I thought one was particularly significant. One of our members asked the panelists what could be done to get
REPRESENTATION ON INVASIVE SPECIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE By Chris O’Byrne
State, Defense, Transportation, Treasury, .S. Secretary of the Health and Human Interior Ken Services, and Homeland Salazar recently Security; and the adminisannounced his appointtrators of the U.S. ment of Bob Wiltshire of Environmental Protection Livingston, Montana, to a Agency, the National Air second three-year term as a and Space Administramember of the Invasive tion, U.S. Agency for Species Advisory Bob Wiltshire International Development Committee (ISAC). and the U.S. Trade Representative. Wiltshire, a former Federation “I’m honored to accept this employee, has been appointed specifiappointment,” said Wiltshire. “Invasive cally to represent recreational angling species are having serious environmenand has been elected by the ISAC tal and economic impacts and ISAC members to serve as vice-chairman in plays a key role in developing the poli2011. He has served on ISAC since cies that guide the federal response. 2008 when he was first appointed by Service as a member of ISAC is an then-Secretary of the Interior Dirk opportunity that very few are given, Kempthorne. and I hope that my contributions to ISAC provides advice and recomthe committee help in dealing with this mendations to the National Invasive serious threat.” Species Council which was established The members of the Invasive by Executive Order in February 1999. Species Advisory Committee include The National Invasive Species Council 29 individuals representing a broad is co-chaired by the secretaries of the range of stakeholders including scienInterior, Agriculture and Commerce. tific, conservation and agricultural Its members include the secretaries of
U
groups; state and tribal governments; and industry organizations that are impacted by invasive species. For more information, see www.InvasiveSpecies.gov. Wiltshire is the founder and executive director of the Invasive Species Action Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the humancaused spread of invasive species. He is the founder of the Clean Angling Coalition, publisher of the Clean Angling News and is well known to many in the fly fishing community. “Invasive species are having a significant impact on all anglers,” he says. “I hope that I can be a strong voice for angling interests as the federal government struggles to cope with this ever-expanding problem.” As an ISAC member and invasive species expert, Wiltshire is available to answer questions about invasive species, how they are spread, and what we can do. He can be reached at the Invasive Species Action Network at 406-222-7270 or through e-mail at bob@stopans.org. Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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OBITUARIES FUTURE OUTDOORS PEOPLE Continued from page 15
infectious as young participants shouted with joy to their friends. It was a pleasure to watch, and I’m humbled to have been part of the experience. Your local Federation club is one of many organizations that are willing and able to help the next generation learn about the sport. What I think is so important is to just “take them outside.” The first step doesn’t necessarily have to be fly fishing; how about hunting, bird watching, hiking, camping, collecting butterflies, looking at the constellations, photography, etc. Now that I think about it, our focus does not have to be just young people. I know a number of outdoors people who were introduced to the sports later in life. Is there a co-worker you could invite along the next time you go fish for some bluegills at the pond? Think about it! There are a number of places where we can “rescue” people from the inside world and get them outside! Push the unplugged lifestyle. What about gift giving? When you and yours opened Christmas presents this past year, how many of those gifts kept people away from outdoor activities? Think about it! An alternative to a computer game could have been an outdoor-focused gift like a pair of binoculars, a magnifying glass, a telescope, an air-soft BB gun, fishing gear, an insect-collecting kit, a field guide, or a gift certificate for an outdoor activity. Another great option is to simply be seen. Do you practice your casting? Can you practice at a school or park where others might see you? Is there a piece of water near you that is not secluded? Try to strike up a conversation next time someone watches you casting. Who knows, you might hook more than a nearby tree! There are indeed challenges, but none of us should assume the worst and write off the cause. We can all make a difference. Do the world a favor – take someone outside! Certified Casting Instructor Chris O'Byrne is a high school teacher in central Florida. He works part-time at The Andy Thornal Company Adventure Outfitter where he teaches fly fishing. When he is not on the water he enjoys golf, RVing and sports with his two children.
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
REMEMBERING MARTY SELDON By Philip Greenlee, FFF Chairman of the Board/President Recently, the Federation of Fly Fishers lost a longtime member and friend, Marty Seldon. Marty and I were introduced in 1972 when I joined the San Jose Fly Casters club of the Federation. He was a dedicated member of the Federation, attending various local California events and national fairs. From his clothing to his manner, Marty was a gentleman. While visiting Livingston, Montana, during one of the FFF Fly Fishing Fairs, he was scheduled to go fishing with Bob Jacklin. I saw him standing on the curb waiting for his ride, leather fly rod case in hand and a straight crease in his pants. He was as well-dressed as though he was waiting for a limousine. Marty was one of the Federation’s unofficial historians; his leadership roles within the organization included council member, inductee into the Northern California Council Hall of Fame, and FFF representative at the semi-annual Wild Trout Symposium. Not only did Marty hold positions of importance in the organization, but he was also the recipient of several prestigious Federation awards. He was Federator of the Year (1981), received the Ambassador Award (2000), and the Order of the Lapis Lazuli (1992). Marty was well-known in the fly fishing community with notables like Lefty Kreh, Dave Whitlock and Doug Swisher inquiring as to how he was doing when I met with them during my travels. In my eyes, he was an important part of the driving force behind the forming of the Federation of Fly Fishers. Marty Seldon was my friend and confidant and will be sorely missed.
Martin (Marty) Seldon
M
arty Seldon passed away peacefully on Dec. 28, 2011 with his loving family by his side. Born in New York to Abe and Yetta Seldon, Marty was raised in Bayonne, New Jersey. He served overseas in the U.S. Army from 1946-1948 and married Rita (Goldstein) in 1952. The couple moved to California in 1955 and then settled in Sunnyvale in 1960, where they spent many of their future years. Marty was an avid conservationist and a leader at organizations such as the Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF), the Flycasters of San Jose (an FFF affiliate club), Wild Trout Symposium, Cal Trout and many others. In 2005 Marty was inducted into the Northern California Council of the Federation of Fly Fishers (NCCFFF) Fly Fishing Hall of Fame. Other awards he received included the Federator of the Year Award in 1981, the FFF’s highest honor, the Order of the Lapis Lazuli Award in 1992, and the Ambassador Award in 2000. He was also the Wild Trout Symposium’s first nonprofessional category Aldo Starker Leopold Wild Trout Medal recipient, presented to him at the Wild Trout-III Symposium in 1984. Marty’s long involvement in wild trout conservation began in the 1960s when he wrote columns for San Francisco and Central Valley fishing newspapers and was also Angler Magazine’s conservation editor. Over the years, Marty wrote extensively on
catch-and-release fishing. He was active on the Photography, Awards and Program committees for Cal Trout and chaired the Awards Committee for the Wild Trout Symposium for several years. Marty served as a Trout Unlimited chapter president, was a founding director of Cal Trout, and had been an FFF volunteer since 1972. Marty also served as the conservation vice president of the NCCFFF and was on the FFF Executive Committee as senior vice president of conservation from 1976-1986. Over the years Marty established a scholarship program so students could attend the Wild Trout Symposium. Named the Marty Seldon Graduate Student Travel Scholarship, it provided a $500 stipend to assist two students to travel to and participate in the event. Marty is survived by his wife, Rita, two children, Jeff and Janet, and three grandchildren, Tevah, Jamil and Jordan. An open memorial service was held Jan. 2, 2012, at the Temple Emanu-El in San Jose, not far from his home in Sunnyvale. Please make any donations in Marty’s name to the Fly Casters of San Jose, the NCCFFF (www.FedFlyfishers.org) or the Temple Emanu-El (1010 University Ave, San Jose, CA 95126). Information from the San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Jan. 1, 2012, the Cal Trout website (www.CalTrout.org), Philip Greenlee (FFF Chairman of the Board), and the FFF website (www.FedFlyfishers.org).
Earl M. Frizzell
T
Kathleen A. Bourrie
K
athy was born June 25, 1950, in Cheboygan, Michigan, growing up and graduating with honors from Grayling High School in 1968. She furthered her education at Michigan State University directly out of high school and at Kirkland Community College later in life, graduating in 1991. In a twist of fate she met her future husband, Victor, the day she graduated. Over the years, her successful business achievements were many, but she gained the greatest recognition for the gracious sharing of her business knowledge, her mentoring and her dedication to her community. During her career she received many awards for achievement in the business community, and she was also recognized in 1999 by the local fly fishing community with the Trout Bum of the Year award. After her marriage to Victor in 1991, she lived and traveled with him
to many different parts of the world as part of his job with the U.S. military. After returning to the U.S., the couple traveled to fly fish, snorkel and explore – often in their RV. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Joyce Bourrie, and her brother Garfield. She is survived by husband Victor Edwards; step-daughter Heather Edwards (fiancé Nathan Cully); sisters Susan (Robert) McCurdy and Cheryl (David) Millikin; aunts Margaret LaCross, Doris Schmidt of Cheboygan and Teresa Ann Lockey; and numerous nieces and nephews. Kathy Bourrie passed peacefully on Wednesday morning, Nov. 23, 2011, in the company of family. She will be missed. Information and photograph provided courtesy of Victor Edwards.
Louis F. “Buzzy” Burns
L
ouis F. “Buzzy” Burns, age 76, died Dec. 26, 2011 in Gulfport, Mississippi. He was born in Gulfport on May 30, 1935. Buzzy was a graduate of Gulfport, class of ’52, and a graduate of Louisiana State University, class of ’56, with an engineering degree in petroleum. He worked for Texaco for several years and retired from Chevron Oil Company after 30 years of service. After retirement, he returned to Gulfport and enjoyed fishing – especially fly fishing. He was president of the Mississippi Coast Flyfishers for several years and a member of the Gulfport Yacht Club. He was also a member of FFF and very active in the Southeast Council of FFF for many years. In later years Buzzy was active in the formation of the new Gulf Coast Council. He devoted much time and effort to making their shows successful. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Francis Burns and Beatrice Duncan Burns. He is survived by his wife, Karen L. Burns of Gulfport, a son, Louis F. Burns III
(Tracey Lee) and a granddaughter, Lillian Claire Burns of League City, Texas. The visitation was Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home in Gulfport. At that function, family and friends shared their memories of Buzzy. If you wish to donate in Buzzy’s memory, the family prefers memorials go to the American Red Cross, South MS Chapter, 2782 Fernwood Road, Biloxi, MS 39535. Information from the Biloxi-Gulfport and South Mississippi Sun Herald newspapers.
he fly fishing world lost one of its conservation warriors on Nov. 6, 2011. Earl M. Frizzell was a longtime member of the North Idaho Fly Casters (NIFC) in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and chaired the club’s Conservation Committee until deteriorating health required him to resign. Earl was born May 25, 1927 in Los Angeles. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1945-1947, he attended the University of Southern California, eventually obtaining a doctorate. He worked in the mining industry and retired from the federal government’s Spokane Research Center in Spokane, Washington. Upon his retirement Earl began to “give back,” as he called it, to the environment for his years in the extractive industry. He served on Idaho’s Kootenai County Waterways Board and was a member of the local yacht club. He took up fly fishing as a hobby and became involved in the NIFC, quickly finding the chairmanship of the Conservation Committee to his liking. Earl strove to educate children about the importance of clean water and how fly fishing dovetailed with that in a perfect way. He was at the front of several projects including Water Awareness Week, Raptor Rescue, Cutthroat Radio Tagging, too many tree planting projects to count, the development of handicapped fishing access at two locations, and working on “family-friendly” fishing ponds along the Coeur d’Alene River. He was also instrumental in the NIFC’s submission for the FFF McKenzie Cup in 2000. Earl was a "force of nature" when he would find something he thought was the right thing to do to preserve the viability of fishing waters in our area.
Information and picture courtesy Kent Setty.
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Book Reviews Fly Fishing the Mid-Atlantic By Beau Beasley No Nonsense Guides Publishing, 2011 8.5" x 11", 200 pages, $29.95 ISBN 978-1-892469-24-3
The best way to go fishing is to find out something about a particular body of water and then just go there. Experimentation, trial and error, wrong turns, surprises, self-reliance, and new discoveries (even in familiar waters) are what make the memories. The next best way to learn is from a local – amateur or professional – who can save you from going too far down the wrong path. In this No Nonsense Guidebook, the author offers a quick, clear understanding of the essential information you’ll need to fly fish his waters in the Mid-Atlantic area. This book, and all of the No Nonsense Guidebooks, should be your go-to source for information about fly fishing new waters. More information is available at www.nononsenseguides.com.
The Fly-Fisher’s Craft
This book is one of the best reads we’ve had the opportunity to enjoy in some time.
The Master’s Fly Box By David Klausmeyer Lyons Press, 2012 9.24" x 11", 208 pages, $29.95 ISBN 978-0-7627-6396-2
This book brings together comprehensive interviews with premier practitioners of the fly fishing sport about how to catch trout across North America. With more than 100 full-color photographs of their flies with complete pattern recipes, as well as photographs of the anglers, this unique book provides insight into secrets of masters of the art. In each chapter the author interviews an expert angler or two and gives their approach to fly design as well as favorite fishing techniques, plus indispensable advice on where, what and when to fish. By giving insight about both tying and fishing, this book is a treasure-trove of practical information for any fly angler.
By Darrel Martin Lyons Press, 2006 8.75" x 11.25", 280 pages, $29.95 ISBN 1-53228-722-0
Beyond Catch & Release
In this great book noted angling author Darrel Martin brings his decades of research, hundreds of color photographs and years of experimentation to bear on the fascinating evolution of fly fishing contrivances, from the practical to the fanciful, from the dawn of written history until today. The author shows where these technologies were first documented, why they came to be, and details how even today we can burnish our own handmade hooks, furl a horsehair leader, and fashion a functioning rod from readily available wood. Martin also documents the intriguing art and evolution of fly tying in exquisite detail, from the earliest documented methods and materials to some of today’s most modern patterns, which still inevitably draw on the pedigree of their ancient forebears.
By Paul Guernsey
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Skyhorse Publishing, 2011 5" x 7", 144 pages, $19.95 ISBN 978-1-61608-235-2
In this book “Beyond Catch & Release: Exploring the Future of Fly Fishing,” author Paul Guernsey argues that angling and the natural resources it depends upon – clear rivers, unpolluted oceans and much more – are threatened by a host of increasingly complex social and environmental factors. At the heart of his exploration are tradition, conservation of land and water, a foresighted ethic, and a commitment to the next generation. The author specifically examines the changing relationship between anglers and fish, waters, woods and mountains, other fishers, the next generation of anglers, and the public at large. This book is thought provoking and definitely well worth your attention.
San Juan River By Richard R. Twarog Frank Amato Publications, 2006 8.5" x 11", 88 pages, $25 ISBN 1-57188-373-8
This book is one of the well-known River Journals from Frank Amato Publications. In it Twarog presents the San Juan River in New Mexico as one of the 10 great rivers in North America with year-round fishing for many different species. Twarog explores the landscape, early residents, fish species, flyfishing techniques, productive patterns and equipment needed to expand your fishing experience on this great river. Both the river and Navajo Lake are gloriously featured in this well-written and beautifully photographed book that is rich with history and spectacular scenery. The author shares interesting conversations with San Juan River locals to provide depth and personality beyond just another guidebook. Twarog puts you on the banks of the river, heart and soul.
Fly-Fishing Secrets of the Ancients By Paul Schullery University of New Mexico Press, 2009 6.25" x 9.25", 256 pages, $29.95 hardcover ISBN 978-0-8263-4688-9
Modern fly fishing is only the latest chapter in a two-millennia saga of technological creativity and passionate observation of the natural world. In this book, the author explores the earlier chapters in that saga and unearths a host of provocative theories, techniques and insights that helped shape the modern fly fisher. Schullery demonstrates that whether we’re looking for a good fish story, a clearer understanding of why we fish the way we do, or even a way to improve our own sport, we ignore the knowledge of our elders at our own peril. This book offers the reader a fresh, probing and often-humorous take on the great endless fish story we perpetuate and enrich every time we cast a fly.
EXHIBIT HALL HOURS THU. JULY 12, 9AM–5PM FRI. JULY 13, 9AM–5PM SAT. JULY 14, 9AM–5PM
ADULTS $5
KIDS 15 & UNDER FREE
FLY TYING AND FLY CASTING DEMONSTRATIONS, PROGRAMS, EXHIBIT HALL, RAFFLES AND MUCH MORE! MANY TYING, CASTING, ON THE WATER AND NON-ANGLING WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE JULY 10-14 Advance sign-up encouraged. Walk-ups welcome until full. Visit us online for complete details.
FEDERATION OF FLY FISHERS | WWW.FEDFLYFISHERS.ORG | 406-222-9369
to help put on the Women’s Retreat this year, the first visit to 3 Lakes Fly Fishing (www.3lakesflyfishing.com), just outside of Spokane, Washington. This is a perfect setting and a great opportunity to master stillwater fishing skills. The female instructors are professional guides, flytiers, writers and certified casting instructors – fantastic! The retreat begins at 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 10 and ends Wednesday at 4 p.m. Yes, it includes an overnighter, well, at least for the first 10 women. Other overnight accommodations are located close by. We will take 16 women total for the retreat. The Women’s Retreat will be geared towards both beginners – those who have never held a fly rod – and the seasoned angler. We will cover a wide range of topics: rigging, knot tying, aquatic insects and casting. This year we will also include fly tying instruction. We will break into groups based upon skill level and interest so everyone is attended to. Each day will be a mixture of instruction and fishing. Horse Shoe Lake at 3 Lakes Fly Fishing is a great place to gather, enjoy each other’s company and learn from each other. The cost is $250 for overnight sign-ups or $200 to attend the two days only. Hurry to sign up, as this class will fill quickly. For more information go to www. fedflyfishers.org.
Fair a Casting Extravaganza
register online at www.fedflyfishers.org
By Steve Hollensed, Casting Co-Chair
Join us in Spokane! There is Something for Everyone Youth Camp Program Packed By Bruce Brown, Youth Camp Chair
This year’s Youth Camp is a packed twoday program, full of learning, fun, and fishing scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 13 and 14, 2012. It is designed for ages 8-17 and will offer a wide variety of angling and aquatic education topics. The Youth Camp will be held at a private facility near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and will be joined and assisted by members of the FFF’s Inland Empire Fly Fishing Club. The cost is
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$15 per day or $25 for both days. For more information, to sign up, or if you are interested in volunteering, please go to www. fedflyfishers.org and click on International Fly Fishing Fair for more information.
Retreat Set for Women By Mary Ann Dozer, Women’s Program Chair
This year’s women’s program is a treat – or should we say retreat? We have gathered an incredible group of female instructors
The International Fly Fishing Fair (IFFF) provides ample opportunity to learn casting from the beginning, laying a solid foundation for future progress. Even for those who are experienced, the opportunities are endless. Learn new casting skills, specific casts, how to practice, how to double haul, how to cast farther, how to cast more accurately and how to cast more efficiently. Learn about two-handed casting. Learn about teaching casting. In fact, there isn’t anything that deals with casting that you can’t learn this year at the IFFF – and in a large variety of ways to learn, too, such as casting workshops, casting demonstrations and the Casting Rendezvous. Casting will be everywhere from workshops and testing held at Gonzaga University, to outside at the Spokane Convention Center and the Lilac Meadow in Riverfront Park, and to the casting pond inside the Spokane Convention Center. Back by popular demand is the 5-Weight Games that bring in a lively, friendly spirit of competition. This year prizes will be available for the winners, and a workshop will be offered for those wanting to improve performance and scores in the games. You’re invited to come share the fun Continues on page 22
The 2012 FFF International Fly Fishing Fair Spokane, Washington Subhead
Headline Legend
to Chewelah & Deer Park
West Plains Spokane County Spokane International Airport
Sandpoint
Spokane County Ne wp ort H
Southwest
Argonne
Division
Northwest
Northeast
wy
Northwest
Southeast
Northeast
Downtown Spokane Spokane Valley
Argonne
Francis
Liberty Lake
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Bigelow Gulch Rd
Trent
ay lew
App
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Sprague
Appleway
Sandifur Footbridge
Sunset Hwy Lincoln Park
Spokane Valley
Craig Rd
Spokane International Airport tric Elec
Southwest
Wallace
Rd
Comstock Park
Thorpe Rd
Kellogg
ry Ga
EXIT 277
Liberty Lake
Sprague
Rd
Manito Park
Pavillion Park
Country Vista Dr
Liberty Lake
Craig Rd
Rambo Rd
Hayford Rd
Sprague
Coeur d’Alene
Harvard Rd
Trent
Downtown Spokane
Post Falls to Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene
Division
Idaho
Southeast
Worley
Ave
Medical Lake Rd
e Rd al Lak Medic
95
Electric Ave
St. Maries
West Plains
Tensed
Spokane County
WASHINGTON
2012 FLY FISHING FAIR DAILY SCHEDULE MONDAY, JULY 9 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Board of Directors Meeting, Red Lion at the Park
TUESDAY, JULY 10 (Pre-Fair events – exhibit hall not open) 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fair Registration Desk Open, Red Lion 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. FFF Tying BOG meeting, Red Lion 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. FFF Casting BOG meeting, Red Lion 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Women’s Program, 3 Lakes Fly Fishing 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Welcome Reception hosted by the Spokane area Sports Commission, Barrister Winery WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 (Pre-Fair events – exhibit hall not open) 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fair Registration Desk Open, Red Lion Noon to 8 p.m. Exhibitor Set-up, Spokane Convention Center (SCC) 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Women’s Program, 3 Lakes Fly Fishing Meetings at Red Lion: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. FFF Foundation 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Council Presidents 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Conservation Committee 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Executive Committee 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Investment Committee Time and Day TBD 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Two-Handed Certification testing, Gonzaga MCI Master Certification testing, Gonzaga CI Casting Certification testing (workshop and written), Gonzaga FFF Awards Banquet, Red Lion
THURSDAY, JULY 12 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fair Registration Desk Open, SCC General Membership Meeting, SCC Exhibit Hall Open, SCC Fly Tying Demonstrations, SCC Book Signings, SCC (see schedule for specific times) Programs, SCC
IDAHO 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. FRIDAY, JULY 13 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Noon and 5 p.m. 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Red Lion SATURDAY, JULY 14 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Noon 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Casting Demonstrations, SCC casting pond Casting Rendezvous, SCC CI Casting Certification testing (performance), Gonzaga Fair Registration Desk Open, SCC Youth Camp, TBD Exhibit Hall Open, SCC Fly Tying Demonstrations, SCC Book Signings, SCC (see schedule for specific times) Programs, SCC Casting Demonstrations, SCC casting pond Casting Rendezvous, SCC 5 Wt. Casting Competition, SCC Auction (preview from 6-7:30, Live Auction at 7:30),
Fair Registration Desk Open, SCC Youth Camp, TBD Exhibit Hall Open, SCC Fly Tying Demonstrations, SCC Book Signings, SCC (see schedule for specific times) Programs, SCC Casting Demonstrations, SCC casting pond 5 Wt. Casting Competition, SCC Barbecue, TBD
If you have registered ahead of time, please pick up your registration packet at the fair registration desk. Single-day passes will be available at the Spokane Convention Center July 12-14. Go to www.fedflyfishers.org for descriptions of programs, workshops, activities, tying, casting games, event schedules and more. Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012 [21 ]
Something for Everyone!
Continued from page 20
and delight in successfully learning more about fly casting at the 2012 IFFF.
Meet Fly Fishing Authors By Lory Watkins, Author Chair
The Authors Booth makes its appearance once again at this year’s FFF Fly Fishing Show. As in years past it will host fly fishing authors of note for attendees to talk with and have their fly fishing books signed. Previous years have found Tom McGuane, John Gierach and Stu Apte, as well as many other renowned fly fishing authors. This year we are looking forward to another group of wellknown authors. As the date of the Fly Fishing Fair approaches check the website, www. fedflyfishers.org and click on the International Fly Fishing Fair link. You will find a list of authors that will be present and the time each will be in the Authors Booth. This is also a good time to bring fly fishing books from your home library to be autographed.
Win Fame and Prizes in the Photo Contest
register online at www.fedflyfishers.org
By Pat Oglesby, Fair Photographer and Photo Contest Chair
You still have time to get your camera out and take photos for submission in the International Fly Fishing Fair Photo Contest. New this year is the Youth Category, limited to photographers age 16 and under. Winners in each of the six categories will receive a ribbon, a Scientific Anglers fly line of their choice, have their photo used in international advertising by Scientific Anglers and have an opportunity to have the “cover shot” for Flyfisher magazine. Winners (1st, 2nd and 3rd places) in each of the categories will be announced in the Fall 2012/Winter 2013 issue of Flyfisher, and the first-place photos will be published. Entries can either be mailed to the Livingston, Montana, office or delivered to the Fly Fishing Fair. For detailed information regarding contest rules and instructions for submitting an entry, go to www.fedflyfishers.org, open the Events tab and choose Fly Fishing Fair. We hope to see your photos on display at the Photo Contest in Spokane, Washington, this July!
Auctions and Raffles Offer Up Goods Galore By Larry Gibbs, Auction & Raffle Chair
The FFF auction and raffle activities will be in full swing this July in Spokane, Washington during the International Fly Fishing Fair. Everyone who pursues a fly fishing lifestyle will be thrilled with the selection of guided
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
fly fishing trips, beautiful fly plates, flies, exceptional art and the finest gear, plus a nice selection of non-fly fishing related items and gift baskets. These have all been donated by individuals and companies that support the FFF and will be up for bid in the live and silent auctions, and offered as prizes in the raffles. We would like to thank these supporters! The silent auction and raffle tables will be open for three days, Thursday through Saturday. Try your luck at either bidding on items or purchasing raffle tickets to secure some great prizes. Be sure to join us Friday, July 13, for the pre-auction cocktail party from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., where there will be a cash bar, great food, a silent auction and a special raffle drawing. This is a main highlight and the only fund-raising auction held at the international level. To attend the party, purchase your ticket ahead of time, or you may attend the live auction starting immediately at 7:30 p.m. for no entrance fee – just show up! You’re invited to join us at the Red Lion at the Park for an exciting auction and raffle! Fishing trips offered this year: • Spend a day fishing with Bob Jacklin on some of his favorite waters around West Yellowstone, Montana. • Take a guided drift boat trip on the Yakima River near Ellensburg in eastern Washington for some great trout fishing. • If you are in the South or traveling there, spend a night at a B&B in Columbus, Mississippi, and half a day fishing with Captain Sid Caradine on a private pond fishing for largemouth bass. • Up in southwestern Wisconsin, near Richland Center, spend three nights at a great B&B and two days of guided fishing with the Jacquish Hollow Anglers.
Learn from the World’s Best Flytiers By Leslie Wrixon, Fair Fly Tying Chair
Are you a hard-core flytier, or are you just starting to learn this fabulous art? The world’s best flytiers will be at the International Fly Fishing Fair in Spokane. Scores of tiers dedicated to this fascinating art and science will be on hand to share their vast range of knowledge, techniques and skills. Tiers will demonstrate everything from giant saltwater prey for sailfish to miniature mosquito larvae for enticing finicky trout. The continuous demonstrations will go on throughout the entire show. The lineup of tiers changes with morning and afternoon sessions, so visit the tiers’ area often to catch all of the action and absorb the knowledge.
Tying sessions and workshops/classes at this year’s fair will have something for everyone, whether you have an appetite for wet or dry flies, nymphs, streamers or specialized flies for any number of waters or species. It’s all here for you. The feast is on!
Exhibit Hall: A new look and great location for the 2012 FFF International Fly Fishing Fair By Sherry Steele, Exhibitor Chair
A major feature of the 2012 Fair is the 27,000-square-foot exhibit hall where fly fishing retailers, artists, travel services and other companies that cater to the fly fishing lifestyle will be offering exhibits and sales of their products and services. World-class tiers with more than 250 demonstrations will be center stage, lending their expertise on tying techniques. Included in the hall will be 58 exhibit spaces including boats that are a mustsee. Another attraction inside the exhibit hall is a casting pond to cast new rods and watch casting demos by certified casting instructors. Enjoy all this plus hour-long programs and family activities. Put this event on your calendar, July 12-14, 2012, to join the fun and excitement at the 2012 International Fly Fishing Fair in Spokane, Washington. Individual cost for a day pass is only $5. If you would like to be one of our exhibitors, sign up early as registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Questions? Contact Jessica Atherton at the FFF office by e-mailing fair@fedflyfishers.org or by phone at 406-222-9369 ext. 107, or contact Sherry Steele, the exhibitor chairperson by e-mailing steelefly@msn.com or phoning 541-5492072. Our goal is to make sure you get great and professional service before and during the entire fair. To check out the beautiful convention center with mega room and big lighting, go to www.spokanecenter.com.
Spokane to Host International Fly Fishing Film Festival The Federation of Fly Fishers announced that the International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) will screen in Spokane, Washington, during the 2012 International Fly Fishing Fair. A collection of some of the world’s best flyfishing films along with a small selection of up-and-coming films will be shown twice on Thursday, July 12, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. IF4 tickets are $15 at the gate or $12 in advance through local fly shops or the IF4 Online Box Office at www.flyfilmfest.com. More details at www.fedflyfishers.org.
Welcome to Spokane, Washington
Greetings Fly Fishing Enthusiasts!
W
elcome to Spokane, Washington, for the 2012 International Fly Fishing Fair this July. We are eager to show off the beautiful Inland Northwest and the endless possibilities our region has to offer. Spokane is the perfect base for all sorts of activities, with a number of outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive away. The Spokane region has 49 challenging golf courses, miles of unmatched hiking and biking trails, as well as 76 lakes and rivers for incredible fishing – making Spokane a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spokane sits on the sunny side of Eastern Washington between two mountain ranges, the Cascades and the Bitterroots. Because of its location, Spokane is truly a four-season city, boasting more than 260 days of sunshine a year. Filled with distinctive communities and neighborhoods, the Spokane region is worth exploring.
DOWNTOWN SPOKANE The downtown sector of our city will serve as the headquarters for the Fly Fishing Fair with events taking place at the Spokane Convention Center and Gonzaga University. Spokane has a vibrant downtown with plenty of hotels, art galleries, premium shops
and restaurants for all tastes. While in downtown Spokane, be sure to check out Spokane Falls in Riverfront Park, tour the historic Flour Mill, venture to the Spokane Public Market for locally made products by area artisans, fish for redband trout in the lower Spokane River, or go shopping at River Park Square.
EXPLORE THE AREA Just out of the downtown area, there is plenty to see. Visit Greenbluff where a variety of independently run farms are open to the public – each offering unique products and services. Visit Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, perched atop a cliff, for a can’t-miss view of the Spokane Valley and great local wine tasting. Or, if gaming and nightlife is more your style, check out Northern Quest Resort & Casino. If the family is seeking adventure, hike Riverside State Park, explore the 26-miles of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene (just a few minutes from the Spokane Valley), or get your adrenaline rushing at Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach Water Park.
EASY DAY TRIPS Venture out of Spokane for a number of incredible destinations: Columbia Basin: A short drive
south of Spokane puts you right into the heart of Washington wine country, where some of the best-rated wines in the world are produced. Visit Walla Walla, a quaint town that boasts 31 wineries and is often referred to as the “next Napa Valley.” Northern Idaho: In addition to nearby Coeur d’Alene, northern Idaho has a lot to see. Head north and fish at Lake Pend Oreille, where the worldrecord Kamloops was caught; camp at Farragut State Park; or explore the charming town of Sandpoint. If you head east in the Idaho Panhandle, be sure to ride North America’s longest gondola to the top of Silver Mountain or bike the Hiawatha Trial. Head south and you’ll end up at Coeur d’Alene Resort & Casino, home to top-rated Circling Raven Golf Course. Western Montana: Pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes are all part of the scenic drive to Western Montana. Take a dip in Quinn’s Hot Springs, a natural hot mineral pool; kayak Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the West; or drive the beautiful Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Get ready for thrilling adventures and a week that is sure to be memorable. We look forward to seeing you here.
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Fishing Around Spokane
A calm Spokane River. Left, author Rich Landers releases a native westslope cutthroat trout in the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River in July.
S register online at www.fedflyfishers.org
By Rich Landers
pokane anglers relish living in the best fly-fishing town never mentioned in fly-fishing circles. Local angling options start in the heart of downtown, where the Spokane River’s native redband trout fishery can be tapped near Riverfront Park, site of thundering waterfalls and a former World’s Fair. But the hook that distinguishes Spokane is the year-round fishing diversity available in rivers, creeks and lakes within a two-hour drive. That’s why fishing licenses for Washington, Idaho and Montana are as common in a Spokane angler’s wallet as photos of the family. The trick is timing. What’s hot and what’s not is particularly important in July, a month of major transitions in runoff and weather. Following are a few of the region’s best fly-fishing options in July. Tips come from local experts. Check with any of the region’s fly shops for updates on the changing midsummer conditions.
Lower Spokane River Washington/Redband trout
Steve Moss, who fishes the city river year-round, says guided anglers drifting in boats can find the local
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
rainbows even in higher water after the 4th of July. For wading, he gets serious in more than 10 miles of river downstream from the Maple Street Bridge when river flows fall to 3,200 cfs or lower. Wading boots with cleats and good roll-casting technique are major advantages. Look for blue-wing olives midday in shady areas. Sculpin streamers will take fish when other methods won’t. Swing soft-hackle patterns for best results during morning and evening caddis hatches. Dusk is magic on the Spokane River. Schedule dinner and cocktail hour around it.
Upper Spokane River, IdahoWashington/Smallmouth bass
John Clark of Westslope Fly Shop says it’s hard to beat the smallmouth action in the river from the Idaho state line downstream to Flora Road Rapids. A drift boat is a prime method of attack, but wading anglers also have good access to this stretch by road, foot or even by bicycle along the paved Centennial Trail. Clark usually starts by casting a size 6 or 8 Pat’s Rubber Legs. “I like to cast it to the rocks and structure and strip, strip, strip, then let it sink down
through the current.” Soft water on the edges of current seams produces a lot of fish.
Clark Fork River Montana/Trout
Joe Roope Jr., of Castaway Fly Shop in Coeur d’Alene says hoppers will just be coming into play in July for the Clark Fork’s rainbows, browns and cutthroats, “but the evening caddis hatches are of Biblical proportions.” The Clark Fork River section up and downstream from St. Regis, Montana, are easily reached in two hours from Spokane via Interstate 90. A skwala stonefly nymph pattern bounced along the bottom under an indicator will produce fish most of the day. Have some large Prince Nymphs along. But Roope likes to set his sights high. He’ll be ready with PMD patterns like the Sparkle Dun from morning through early afternoon. Large attractors such as the Chernobyl Ant work in afternoon before evening calls for swinging caddis dries, often with soft-hackle droppers.
Coeur d’Alene River Idaho/Cutthroat
Pat Way of Northwest Outfitters says July might be the best month of
the year to find good fishing evenly distributed throughout 50 miles of the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River from its headwaters down to Interstate 90 near Cataldo. Most of the river is in national forest. Be prepared especially for caddis, PMDs, hoppers and terrestrials such as beetles and ants. The river is excellent for walking and wading. Paralleled by roads for most of its length, the North Fork also has walk-in sections upstream from Teepee Creek.
St. Joe River Idaho/Cutthroat
Sean Visintainer of Silver Bow Fly Shop in Spokane Valley tells his clients to come with 4- or 5-weight rods, 9-foot 4X and 5X leaders, floating lines and high expectations for this catch-andrelease native cutthroat stream in the St. Joe National Forest. When flows drop below 2,000 cfs at Calder, wading becomes comfortable upstream from Avery, where campgrounds are scattered every few miles along the river all the way to the walk-in section that starts at Spruce Tree Campground.
Amber Lake Washington/Rainbows
Allen Peterson of Swede’s Fly Shop in Spokane enjoys pointing fly fishers to this special regulations lake stocked with triploid rainbows averaging 14 to 16 inches but running to 20. “It’s best to have a watercraft,” he said, noting that boat motors are restricted. “In July, try soft hackles on a short leader with a Type 3 or 4 full-sinking line. Go left from the launch and boat about halfway down the lake to a barnlike building. About 30 feet out from shore there’s a trench where a lot of nice rainbows congregate when the water gets warmer.” Rich Landers, a native Montanan, has been the outdoors editor for 35 years for The Spokes-
Spokane Area
Fly Shopsand Guides
Joe Roope’s Castaway Fly Fishing Shop 1114 N. 4th St. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 208-765-3133 800-410-3133 www.castawayflyfishingshop.com
Swede’s Fly Shop 1611 N. Ash St. Spokane, WA 99205 509-323-0500 www.swedesflyshop.com
Cabela’s 101 N. Cabela Way Post Falls, ID 83854 208-777-6300 www.cabelas.com
Westslope Fly Shop 1003 E. Trent Ave., Suite 145 Spokane, WA 99202 509-838-0252 www.westslope-flyshop.com
North West Classic Tackle 9751 Government Way #8 Hayden, ID 83835 208-772-0372 www.northwestclassictackle.com Northwest Outfitters 2171 N. Main (in the village at Riverstone) Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 208-667-2707 888-347-4223 www.nwoutfitters.com
Discounts
from our
The Federation has blocked a limited amount of rooms at a discounted rate at the Red Lion Hotel at the Park in Spokane, Washington. Reserve your room now for $99 single and double occupancy, $109 triple rate or $119 quad rate. Rooms will be filling up fast due to other activities going on in the area, so it is recommended you make your reservations now! After the block has been reserved, space will depend on availability. Cutoff date to reserve for this rate is Sunday, June 10. After June 10 the hotel may continue to accept group reservations at the prevailing room rate, but subject only to availability. Price does not include applicable state and local taxes. Contact
Silver Bow Fly Shop 13210 E. Indiana Ave. Spokane Valley, WA 99216 509-924-9998 www.silverbowflyshop.com
Double Spey Outfitters Spokane, WA 509-701-7052 www.doublespeyoutfitters.com Tom Loder’s Panhandle Outfitters 12601 S. Thunder Mountain Valley Ford, WA 99036 509-922-8289 www.panhandle-outfitters.com
Host Hotel the host hotel or the FFF for more information about check in/out times, early departure fees and cancellation policies. Rate includes complimentary parking for overnight guests. Please explain when making a reservation by phone that you are attending the Federation of Fly Fishers Fly Fishing Fair and want their specially arranged discounted rate.
RED LION HOTEL AT THE PARK 303 West North River Dr. Spokane, WA 99201 800-RED-LION (1-800-733-5466) Fax: 509-325-7329 For phone reservations identify yourself as a member of “Federation of Fly Fishers.”
man-Review in Spokane, Washington.
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Workshops! Register
for the
INTERNATIONAL FLY FISHING FAIR! Register online: Go to www.fedflyfishers.org Registration opens May 1 at 9 a.m. and closes July 2 at 5 p.m., 2012 The registration guide will be available online or by calling the FFF office at 406-222-9369 Early bird registration: Includes 10 raffle tickets and 1 entry for a special drawing, ends May 31. Onsite registration at the Fair will be available July 10-14.
www.fedflyfishers.org
register online at www.fedflyfishers.org
Sign up online for these great workshops! Fly Casting Basics and a Bit Beyond – Bryan Martin Walk & Wade Fishing the Spokane River – Wayne Jordan Fish the Super Secret High Desert Spring Creek – Len Zickler Masters Prep Workshop – Bruce Richards Instruction for Instructors – John Van Dalen Master Certified Instructor Testing Member Fee How to Custom Build or Repair Fly Lines – Al Buhr Casting and Mending to Catch More Fish – Floyd Dean, Janet Dean Fly Casting Faults, How to Identify and Correct – Bryan Martin Advanced Fly Casting – Bruce Richards Casting Instructor Certification THCI Certification – Al Buhr Introduction to Spey Casting – Rick Williams, Jim Valle and Raf Mascaro Advanced Single-Handed Spey Casting Techniques – Leslie Holmes Tying Small Flies – Charlie Schillinsky Blending Dubbing and Tying the DDH Leech – Stuart Thompson Tying Effective Lake Flies – Norm Domagala Tying and Fishing with the Life Cycle of a Mayfly – Nate Brumley Why Fish Chironomids – Bob Wolfe Walk & Wade Fishing the Spokane River – Wayne Jordan Tenkara Fishing on Water – Misako Ishimura Do-It-Yourself Line Welding Workshop – Lee Davison Dutch Oven Cooking – Lew Evans
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
fun for all levels
Winemaking 101 – Ellen Clark Improve Your Fishing by Tightening your Loops – Mary Ann Dozer, John MacDiarmid Catching Bigger Fish with Smaller Flies: Tactical Fishing Techniques – Chase Jablonski Ground School: Jump Starting Beginners and Intermediates – Bill Keister Casting Rendezvous – Jim Valle, Chase Jablonski Intermediate Casting Class – John Van Dalen 5-Weight Games Workshop – Chase Jablonski Presentation Casts for Trout – Phil Gay MCCI Examiners Continuing Education: The Path to Becoming a Good Examiner, Going Beyond the Checkbox – Eric Cook Teaching Casting to Those with Disabilities and Impairments – Macauley Lord Learn from Your Loop – Bruce Williams, Todd Somsel Getting to the Next Level in Mastering Spey – Al Buhr Weaving Hair Hackle: Tying Pott Hair Flies – Frank Johnson Inshore and Offshore Saltwater Fly Tying and Leader Building – Gary Hall Fly Tying Tips and Tricks: 50 Years Under the Influence of a Vise – Michael T. Williams Fly Tying 101 – Sherry Steele Creating Fly Displays – Gil Nyerges Fishing Chironomids in Lakes and Ponds – Bob Wolfe Fishing Wet Flies & Flymphs for Trout – Bud Frasca How to Be a Better Demonstration Tier – Jim Ferguson Fishing Lines Explained – Lee Davison Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing – Carole Katz Fly Tying and Fly Casting for Veterans Limited to the Use of One Arm – Ken Brunskill Fly Tying Instructor’s Workshop – Jim Ferguson Simple Knots for Fly Fisherpersons and Fly Fishing – Harley Reno Spokane’s Urban Redband Trout: Challenges and Opportunities – Bart Mihailovich, Rick Eichstaedt and Doug Pineo An Introduction to Genealogy – Juanita McBride, Barbara Brazington and Dolly Webb Wine Tour of Spokane – Chet Allison, Jo Ann Allison 12 Most Common Casting Errors – Spotting and Fixing Them – Dave Barron, Scott Kessler Loop Dynamics for the Instructor – Soon Lee, Bruce Richards Learn the Most Elegant Skill in Fly Casting, the Double Haul – Les Rosenthal Double Haul: Add Distance, Smoothness and Loop Control – Floyd Dean, Janet Dean “Fear No Tree,” the Many Uses for a Roll Cast – Molly Semenik
From Trout to the Tropics – Pete Greenan The Double Haul from A to Z – Rhea Topping Loops 101 – Steve Hollensed Backcast: The Key to the Forward Cast – Tim Lawson Step by Step to Better Distance – Pat Peterman Switch Rods: A Versatile Casting and Fishing Tool – Rick Williams, Mark Huber Single-handed Spey for Fishing – David Diaz Casts for Tight Quarters – Carl Zarelli Tying Grant Style Flies – Todd Collins & James Flaherty Tying Soft Hackle Flies – Mike Stewart Introduction to Fly Tying – Jim Ferguson Lessons from Latitude 65: A Scholarly, Systematic Approach to Fly Tying Instruction – Scott Murdock, Shann Jones Coq (Gallo) de Leon: History of The Feathers and Traditional Spanish Fly Patterns – Leslie Wrixon Let’s Go Fishing with a Spey Rod – Lee Davison Fish the Super Secret High Desert Spring Creek – Len Zickler Steelhead Catching Techniques – Mac Huff Antique Angler: Making the Antique Hook and Tying the First English Pattern (1651) – Darrel Martin, Sandra Martin Do It Yourself Chile – Bill Keister, Dean Keister Rafting on the Lower Spokane River – Nick Farline Taking Your Spey Casting Talents to the Next Level – Lee Davison Casting Efficiency – Chase Jablonski Advanced Fly Casting Techniques – Don Simonson Modern Northwest Speycasting: The Evolution of Efficiency – Brian Niska Casting in Wind Conditions – Don Simonson Distance Casting and Efficient Use of the Rod – Greg Bencivenga History, Tying & Fishing Soft Hackles – J.C. Childress Introduction to Fly Tying for Women – Frank Johnson & Jim Ferguson Survey of Woven Nymphs – Leslie Wrixon Streamside Examination of Stoneflies – David Nelson Spokane River Kayak Adventure – Len Zickler
See the full lineup of workshops including descriptions, dates, times and prices at
www.fedflyfishers.org
or call the FFF office at 406-222-9369 to get a copy of the Registration Guide.
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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A Day’s Escape Story and photos by Tom Jindra
T
he fishing was pretty slow as Matt Wilhelm and I leapfrogged each other on our way upstream. Had the stream been larger we might have fished side-by-side. But it wasn’t so we decided I would hit one hole while Wilhelm and Herbie, his springer spaniel hopped ahead to the next. It was a good idea that let us cover a lot of water, but it produced not a single trout.
“Maybe Chuck was right, and we should have gone downstream with him,” Wilhelm said after a disappointing hour. “Yeah, we could have tried the Yellowstone. But I really like these smaller rivers, and I’ve caught a lot of fish here this summer. Not big fish. Just really pretty cutthroats and brookies. ... I wonder how Chuck is doing?” I understood Wilhelm’s second-guessing. He had been encouraging me since late winter to visit him in Montana, not that I needed much encouragement. Still, the prompts kept coming until one that featured an appeal to my palate. “I can make my famous elk tenderloin with morel mushrooms ... wild rice ... and yams a la Matt,” one e-mail promised. OK, I didn’t really expect the morels, figuring I was traveling much too late in the season, but I was tempted by the elk. Wilhelm should have shot a bigger elk though, because his cache was gone by the time I got to Livingston. So now we were focused on the fishing, and Wilhelm was trying hard to deliver. The river had no shortage of attractive water. We found lovely little pools, runs with undercut banks and one large pool that showed exceptional
[28]
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
– if unfulfilled – promise as we worked our way upstream. “I caught a big cutthroat there last year,” Wilhelm said, after we drew a blank. “I put him back. I wonder if he made it through the winter.” We moved on, fishing right through the afternoon with nothing to show for our effort. Sometime after 4 o’clock, I estimated it was time to head back. We had promised Chuck we would meet at the truck about 6 p.m. I looked around and found Wilhelm and Herbie had already jumped ahead, leaving me to fish another nice run. One more spot, I told myself. After that it’s probably time to quit. I looked upstream to see the river spilling out of a riffle perhaps 100 feet above me. The current picked up speed as it came downhill into the bend, and it cut deep into the left bank. A perfect place, I thought. I stopped to check my gear and then considered the fly I’d been using. Like everything else I had tried, the Parachute Adams had been a bust, so I cut it off and dug out my box of dry flies. The only pattern that hadn’t yet seen duty was a No. 16 Yellow Sally stonefly. I crimped the barb of the
The river was small, but there was no shortage of attractive water. Top, the first trout was a cutthroat, not terribly large but quite beautiful, with a spotted gold body, rose-tinged gill plates and slivers of red below the throat.
“That’s a beautiful cutthroat,” Wilhelm said. “A good hook, tied the fly to my leader and cast it a short distance 18 inches.” from the cut bank. I finally found success. “Gorgeous,” I said. “You don’t think he’s 20?” The first trout was a cutthroat, not terribly large but quite “Maybe, but it looked like 18.” beautiful. He had been hanging on the current’s edge. I Once again, we were on our way back to the truck quickly brought him to hand, slipped the hook and turned though Wilhelm paused to point out a fallen tree. The him loose. I checked the fly and cast it again, figuring I would decayed trunk had been pulled apart. find more fish where I had found the one. “A bear did that,” Wilhelm said. The next fish was a brook trout; he, too, was small and I started wondering. “So Matt, you’ve lived in Montana a beautiful. I returned him to the stream as well, just as I did few years. Ever have any trouble with bears?” with the several fish that followed. I dawdled there for the “Na, I’ve seen them, but I’ve never had a problem. There next 30 minutes and then decided to catch up with Wilhelm. won’t be any bears around here, not today. That tree damage We needed to meet Chuck. When I found Wilhelm, he back there was a couple days old.” agreed. We turned downstream and began the hike back. I figured I had best focus on walking to keep pace with I tried hard to keep up with Wilhelm, but it was a lost Wilhelm in case he took off on a shortcut. Sure enough, he cause. Even on a clean trail he was quite capable of running ducked into the trees on a path I would have missed on my me into the ground with his longer stride. And he was really own. It was an easy trail with no briars, no branches and no in his element among the river’s rocks and snags where I was thicket. The only significant ground cover was a swath of tall more conditioned to New Orleans sidewalks. I settled on my grass up ahead where the sun had broken through the own pace, figuring I would catch up with Wilhelm eventually canopy – a patch of bright green in the forest’s gloom except even if that meant when I reached the bridge. for the stark black object that popped up I was wrong to think Wilhelm as we approached. I immediately recogwas done with fishing for the day. I found nized it as a head. Big dog, I thought. him by that big pool where he had I could almost hear the skid as released the large cutthroat the year Wilhelm came to a sudden stop. before. “Herbie!” he shouted. “Where are “Let’s fish this one more time,” you, Herbie?” Wilhelm shouted as I came into sight. Wilhelm was spooked and I was “It’s a really good spot. Go ahead, give it puzzled. Just a dog, I thought. What’s the a try.” big deal? This was clearly the prettiest pool we The head dropped behind the had seen. If the river held any big fish, I grass, and then there was another told myself, they would live here. But while motion that drew my eye to the right. the water was appealing, my focus was This time a big black dog was scaling a on a deadfall close to the water’s edge. tree. Finally my brain figured it out, firIrresistible, I thought. I moved slowly up ing off three simultaneous bulletins: Bear to the water’s edge. Then I froze. cubs … Oh, cool … Oh, no! “What is it?” Wilhelm asked. Wilhelm had already begun to “A trout,” I said. “A big trout. Really backpedal. “Look out for the mother,” big.” he said, his head pivoting as if on a Yes, this was a monster compared to swivel. “She’s around here somewhere. the 10- and 12-inch babies that I had played with earlier. Wilhelm eased up Matt Wilhelm with Herbie, his springer spaniel, Herbie!” enjoy a break on the banks of the river. Both of us were backing off, desperbeside me. ately trying to put distance between us “Tough spot,” he said. “You can do it.” and the two cubs when Herbie trotted up. Wilhelm snapped I wasn’t so sure. A tangle of branches protected my fish. a leash to Herbie’s collar, and we continued our retreat. I doubted I could punch a cast through such a narrow winWhen we broke out of the trees, we were only about 30 dow. Still, I had to try. yards from the road. We wasted no time scrambling up the My first couple of casts fell far short but the trout never embankment and over a wire fence. I was still burning noticed. The third cast had better distance but it was high, setenough adrenaline that I was doing a reasonable job keeping tling over a branch. I fought the impulse to yank back, which up with Wilhelm’s march for the bridge. Chuck, of course, surely would have caused my hook to snag. Instead I let the was waiting. current drag on the line, allowing the fly to slowly slip free. “We’re really late. What should we tell him?” Wilhelm The game continued for several more casts. How many? asked. I don’t actually know, but I was almost convinced I had lost “Tell him there’s a big, beautiful cutthroat upstream,” the match when my fly hit the slot and settled mere inches I said. “And he’s welcome to it if he doesn’t mind sharing it ahead of the trout’s nose. The cutthroat rose and sipped. I with the bears.” raised my rod and set the hook. The game was on. Had the trout surged forward or veered off to either side, Tom Jindra is a longtime Federation member, former FFF president and the match would have ended quickly. Instead he took off downrecipient of the Lapis Lazuli Award. He lives in New Orleans, Louisiana, with his lovely wife, Deb. stream into the open water. Minutes later I eased my fish into the shallows and beached him at the water’s edge. Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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By Terry and Roxanne Wilson
O
PHOTO BY ERIC ENGBRETSON
n any given summer weekend at most stream crossings in our part of the world, you will find kids happily chasing crayfish, known as “crawdads” in kid speak, to imprison them in hastily improvised pools at the water’s edge. Whether the fun is in the quantity captured or the thrill of the hunt is hard to say, but we fly fishers know using crayfish imitations for catching bass is as much fun as anyone can have on the water. Crayfish aren’t difficult to catch, and they’re a primary food source for all big freshwater game fish. Whenever there is a disturbance nearby, they quickly dart a short distance just above the bottom from the safety of one hiding place to another. To find and devour food, largemouth and smallmouth bass are attuned to the movement of anything in their environment. If it looks to them like crayfish, moves like crayfish, then they’re likely to strike. That is, after all, how little bass grow into the leaping, twisting, running, thrilling catches we live for. Nearly 500 species of crayfish exist worldwide, and more than 390 are native to North America. They are widely distributed in swift streams, sluggish rivers, lakes, ponds, swamps and bayous. Most crayfish are short-lived. Males commonly die at the end of their second summer, while females last until their third summer. They grow in size by shedding (molting) their hardened exoskeleton. This molting process occurs several times a year during the warm months. Game fish prefer these post-molt, soft-shell crayfishes, often called “peelers,” and prey most heavily on those that are 1.5 to 2.5 inches long. Fly patterns to imitate them should reflect that length and be tied in pale colors to replicate this vulnerable stage of development. Crayfish come in a wide variety of colors, including various shades of gray, brown, tan, olive, orange and green. Many are mottled and some can be described as freckled, but
each matches the color of its environment. North Arkansas fly-fishing guide and well-known wildlife artist Duane Hada advised us years ago, “If you have trouble seeing your crayfish patterns against the background of the bottom, its color is just right.” That point was driven home for us as we camped along Huzzah Creek located southwest of St. Louis. The smallmouth bass thoroughly rejected our crayfish offerings until we did some rock turning and discovered that the local population was much lighter in color than our imitations. A campfire fly-tying session corrected the discrepancy and we contentedly spent the next four days with bent fly rods. Three other crayfish fly characteristics need consideration. First, stiff materials used to replicate the pinchers can cause the fly to wobble, sacrificing control, when retrieved. This wobble can also cause the fly to spin (in or out of the water), resulting in a twisted tippet and rejection by game fish. Observation of crayfish as they use their tails to propel themselves backward out of danger reveals that during this evasive action their pinchers are folded together as if in prayer, not extended apart in attack mode as many anglers believe. After all, how menacing can a 1.5-inch crayfish appear? Consequently, we like to use a flexible material such as marabou, rabbit strips or a soft synthetic fiber to represent pinchers. Second, it is important that any crayfish pattern be in contact with or close to the bottom throughout the drift. Tiers and fly shoppers should consider several weighting options. First, barbell eyes come in several sizes, weights and colors that can adjust the weight of the same fly pattern to allow bottom contact at varying current speeds and depths. Barbell eyes make the fly ride hook-point up, which helps keep the fly from hanging up on the bottom. Second, bead heads and cone heads offer another weighting option and are available in different sizes and colors. Third, wraps of lead or tungsten wire can be incorporated under the fly’s body to add weight to the hook shank. Fourth, another option is the use of Quick Descent Dubbing (made from metal fibers), which can be applied easily to the fly’s body using the direct thread dubbing method. Since crayfish flies are in contact with the bottom so frequently, a third consideration for some form of weed guard is helpful. Again, several options are available. Most common is a single monofilament loop that is attached to the hook shank near the hook bend and then looped below the hook point and re-attached beneath the hook eye when the fly is completed. A double mono weed guard can be similarly attached by placing one strand on each side of the hook shank. Other options include the Nelson point guard, which is a loop tied directly beneath the hook eye to protect the hook point and the nylon brush guard. We like weed guards that can be purchased in the spin-cast tackle aisle called hook guards. They’re simply
TONY SPEZIO’S CHILI PEPPER Hook: 3X- or 4X-streamer hook, sizes 6 or 8 Thread: fluorescent orange, 140 denier or 6/0 Tail: marabou, burnt orange Tail Flash: Krystal Flash, copper Body: tinsel chenille, copper Hackle: saddle hackle, brown or ginger Head: Cyclops Bead, copper Additional Weight: (optional) 0.020 lead wire wrapped under the body
WILSON’S BASS BULLY (colors: black, rust, olive, chartreuse) Hook: Mustad 3366, size 4 Thread: 240 denier or 3/0 Tail: straight-cut rabbit strip Body: large ice chenille Gills: medium red chenille Legs: Sili-legs Eyes: Extra-small red barbell eyes with black pupils Head: sculpin wool, stacked and trimmed
Two presentations serve most moving water needs. The first is the “crayfish hop,” which is performed by casting upstream. Allow the fly to settle to the bottom and then lift the rod tip to cause the fly to “hop” off the bottom and allow the current to move the fly downstream. Lower the rod tip so that the fly will re-settle on the bottom, then strip the line to remove slack before repeating the process. The imparted action mimics the attempts of natural crayfish to flee predators. The second stream presentation utilizes the same “high sticking” technique used in nymph fishing to dead drift the fly. Hold the rod tip high so that the fly enters the water in a straight line. Follow the movement of the fly by reaching forward and moving the rod tip at the speed of the current. Whatever freshwater species you pursue, try tempting them with one of their favorite meals: crayfish. You’ll like the results.
FEEDING FROGS TO BIG BASS When the water warms, frogs become active near the stream’s banks where insect hatches are abundant. Surface-feeding bass capture frogs with ease, which enables fly fishers to catch bass by exploiting their appetite for these vulnerable amphibians. This is most easily and enjoyably accomplished with floater/divers patterns. This type of pattern becomes most visible to bass as they are pulled under the water and become most vulnerable as they return to the surface. The explosive strikes are memory makers. One of the best flies to use in replicating a helpless frog is Dave’s Orange Belly Diving Frog, created by fly fishing icon and longtime Federator Dave Whitlock. Here’s his recipe:
PHOTOS BY TERRY AND ROXANNE WILSON
clear plastic worm material flattened and slotted on one end to allow them to slip over the hook eye; the opposite end is threaded into the hook point. They may feel softer and more natural to the fish, and the result is fewer rejections. Several years ago as we researched our third book, “Smallmouth Bass Fly Fishing: A Practical Guide,” we asked many smallie enthusiasts about their favorite flies. Virtually all named crayfish imitations, and most had a favorite pattern and color that worked best in their waters. One of the impressionistic patterns we use often is a simple Woolly Bugger variation created by 2011 Buz Buzsek Award winner Tony Spezio from northern Arkansas. He named it the Chili Pepper. Spezio calls it “the most productive fly I have ever used for a variety of species of fish in cold, warm, and salt water.” Another is our own Bass Bully that accounted for the 21-inch smallmouth adorning the cover of our book. Here are the recipes for both:
DAVE’S ORANGE BELLY DIVING FROG Hook: TMC 8089, sizes 10, 6, 2 barb bent down Thread: fluorescent orange Danville single strand flat floss (210 denier) Legs: fluorescent orange neck hackle, grizzly dyed fluorescent green neck hackle Skirt: orange Krystal Flash, fluorescent orange neck hackle Front Legs: fluorescent orange rubber hackle, fluorescent green rubber hackle and black rubber hackle Collar: fluorescent orange deer hair, fluorescent green deer hair and black deer-body hair Head: fluorescent orange deer body hair, fluorescent green body hair and black deer hair Eyes: green and black solid plastic eyes
Terry and Roxanne Wilson of Bolivar, Missouri, are longtime Flyfisher contributors focusing on warmwater fly fishing. For more articles, tips and tricks, or to schedule them to speak, visit their website at www.TheBluegillPond.com or email them at terrywil@windstream.net.
Snag-guard and hook foundation: Mason hard nylon (size 10 = 0.019 inch, size 6 = 0.022 inch, size 2 = 0.025 inch) Cement: Dave’s Flexament, Goop, Zap-a-Gap
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Crayfish
Fishing
Patterns
Sto ry
The ‘Go-To’ Streamer to Mimic Trout Prey
and
pho tos by B
ill T hether oon e you call them crayfish, crawfish, crawdads, freshwater lobsters or even mudbugs, the many species that live in North America all mean the same thing to trout – food! To any trout, big or small, a crayfish is a substantial meal that is hard to pass up. Yet, unless you are a diehard streamer fishermen, many fly anglers rarely consider using crayfish patterns. Streamers are generally not my first choice when fishing, but when I do use them, crayfish patterns are frequently my go-to fly, especially when fishing the Bear Trap Canyon area of the Lower Madison River near Bozeman, Montana, or similar waters. Crayfish can be found in streams, rivers, small creeks, ponds and lakes, making them frequently available prey for trout. They are most active at dawn and dusk. They generally hide under rocks, in weed beds or in their burrows during the day but are still available to trout as a daytime food source. Crayfish are omnivores, feeding on plant and animal matter, both alive and dead. Their color can vary from brown to olive green with red, blue, yellow or even orange highlights accenting their bodies. I suggest incorporating colors in your fly patterns that closely match those with the local species in your area waters. In my waters I find the period before spring runoff and late summer seem to be the best times of the year for crawfish patterns. The trout are hungry when coming off winter with its slim pickings or going into fall trying to pack on extra weight, especially brown trout preparing for their fall spawn.
W
Crayfish patterns will work in the summer as well but are best used when trailing a smaller nymph on a dropper. Personally I like to use a trailer regardless of the season; I think a two-fly rig just increases my chances of a hookup. Crayfish patterns generally run in the size 4 to 6 range, and I usually select one that is heavily weighted. A 6-weight, medium fast-action rod with a 7- to 9-foot heavier tippet is my recommended leader set up; 2X to 4X work best for me. Unless I’m planning to fish really deep, a weight-forward floating line is all I need. Also the times of the year when crayfish patterns work best just happen to coincide with potential heavy midge and/or Baetis activity, so the floating line also allows an easy transition to some early or late season dry fly fishing if the opportunity presents itself. Crayfish are not free-swimming creatures. They slowly walk along the stream or river bottom, but when alarmed they propel themselves backwards with their tail in short, quick spurts using the current and the rapid movement of their tail to quickly escape danger. I try to make my presentation so it mimics the crayfish’s natural behavior. Unless I’m fishing in a slow current or “frog water,” stripping upstream does not properly imitate a crayfish. An upstream and across dead drift is the most common presentation, whether just searching for fish or specifically casting to structure such as rocky ledges and banks, weed beds, channels, depressions or drop-offs. It is important your pattern be sufficiently weighted to stay on or close to the bottom. In addition, make sure to give your cast enough “upstream
Even rainbows love crayfish. The Madison River rainbow above and on the opposite page was taken on a crayfish pattern. A small sampling of crayfish patterns available are also shown. Crayfish coloring can vary with hues of red, yellow or blue, as seen with the large blue crayfish in its den shown below, center, and the small red Madison River crayfish, below, left. And, like the rainbow, this fall brown, below, couldn’t resist a downstream-stripped crawfish pattern.
lead” for the fly to sink into your intended targeted area. When making a dead drift presentation, I like to use an indicator, although I realize it is a personal decision. For me the indicator helps identify a more restrained, delicate strike and also tells me when my crayfish is bumping along the bottom as it should. I like to place this indicator above the fly about twice the depth of the water, and then adjust it based on water speed. If I’m not bumping the bottom with my fly, then increasing my indicator-to-fly distance is in order. On the other hand, if I’m getting hung up a lot, then I decrease this distance. By the very nature of where you need to fish your pattern, you can expect to get hung up some and lose a few flies. An alternate method of presentation is to cast roughly 90 degrees upstream and allow time for your pattern to sink, and then use a short strip-pause-short strip retrieve to imitate a crayfish trying to escape downstream from a predator. A tuck cast is a good choice here as it allows your fly to sink a bit faster than a standard straight-line cast. When using this type of upstream presentation, I prefer a shorter leader and no indicator. A variation of this upstream presentation with a downstream strip is a pause method shown to me by Bruce Richards, who serves on the FFF Casting Board of Governors. He likes to start the cast upstream and across, similar to the dead drift method. However, when his fly hits the water he throws a big (I mean BIG) downstream mend and then follows with the short strip-pause-short strip method. The big downstream mend will allow his pattern to move downstream with each strip, just as an escaping crayfish would do. Sometimes either one of these more aggressive escape presentations will trigger a strike in a fish where the more passive dead-drift method will not. Another method – a best-of-both-worlds approach – is to dead drift an olive or brown Woolly Bugger and allow it to imitate a crayfish while it bounces along the bottom during the dead drift part of the cast. At the end of the cast, allow the fly
to swing with the current and then strip it slowly back upstream to imitate a small fish. Even though I am stripping at the end of the drift with this presentation, I still prefer to use an indicator because I feel the dead-drift portion of the cast is the more important of the two parts. I have used this technique with good success on more than a few occasions. Strikes during the swing portion can be quite violent, so I keep my rod positioned perpendicular to the line. This allows the rod tip to absorb the power of a strike, thus removing some of the strain off my knots and tippet. While it is an undeniable fact that aquatic insects make up the majority of a trout’s diet, there are times when they want more. If on a given day you are just not getting it done with your standard fare of nymphs, you might consider a crayfish. Adding crayfish patterns to your fly box and fishing them properly can give you one more weapon in your troutfishing arsenal. That might be just the technique to make the difference between a pleasant but fishless day on the water and one with a nice rainbow or brown to brag about. Bill Toone is this publication’s editor-in-chief and lives with his wife, Arletta, in Bozeman, Montana, where he telecommutes to his day job as director of purchasing for the Hylton Group in northern Virginia. He is also an instructor and guide for the Yellowstone Fly Fishing School and an FFF master casting instructor.
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Gonapods
CRAYFISH Story and photos by Verne Lehmberg ly fishers’ and flytiers’ bookshelves are crammed with texts about mayflies, caddisflies and stoneflies, but much of the other aquatic life that fishers try to imitate is often given little attention. The order Decapoda (10-footed) contains shrimp, lobsters, crabs and crayfish. The small lobster relatives called crayfish (in the north), crawfish or crawdads (farther south), also have impressive species diversity. Contrary to the widespread idea that crayfish are a single species, which exist only in the role of fish bait or as a main ingredient in Louisiana cuisine, there are around 390 species in North America out of 500 worldwide. The United States is the hotbed of crayfish diversity with the southeastern states being best represented: Texas has 39 species, Missouri 32, and the southeastern states of Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia have the mother lode with more than 60 species each in widely diverse habitats – from mud holes to crystal-clear spring streams. Some rare white eyeless crayfish on the endangered species list live in underground cave streams. A prairie crayfish indigenous in northern Texas does not need ponds or even water in roadside ditches. This blue-clawed beauty lives 10 feet beneath the prairie in a small amount of seep water, coming to the surface on wet nights to feed and breed. Diversity dwindles in states farther north and west, with the Dakotas and Montana
F
A crayfish has four pairs of walking legs and paired, clawed chelipeds (pinchers), used for defense, attack and capturing food. The walking legs also serve to probe in crevices between rocks for food. These legs can regenerate if broken off.
Photo by Dr. William Roston, Forsyth, Missouri
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Biology on the Fly
each having only three species. The patchy worldwide distribution of crawfish is a bit of an evolutionary mystery. Since crayfish cannot tolerate salt water, they cannot be dispersed via oceans. None occur naturally in all of Africa or India, but native species do exist in Madagascar. The geological breakup of Gondwana millions of years ago might hold clues to crayfish origins, but exactly how or when lobsters adapted to fresh water (or even if they did so) is still an unanswered question. For those of you interested in reading more about this mystery, go to www.CuriousNature.info/A1-Crayfish.html.
Seminal Receptacle
Of the three crayfish families, one is in the southern hemisphere. The Parastacidae family is in Australia, Madagascar and South America. Australia has 100 crayfish species in a dozen genera, and has the biggest crayfish, the Tasmanian giant freshwater crayfish at 11-plus pounds. Fossil crayfish burrows in Australia from 133 million years ago give hints as to their life history changing little over time. The other two crayfish families are in the Northern Hemisphere, with the Cambaridae most numerous in North America where nine genera are represented. The largest in the United States is a 9- to 12-inch bottlebrush crayfish in Tennessee, and the smallest is the one-inch Cambarellus diminutus, or least crayfish, found in a few spots where southern Alabama and Mississippi adjoin. The largest freshwater Decapoda in North America is the big-clawed river shrimp, which gets to 14 inches and 3 pounds, and lives in the Texas spring-fed San Marcos River. Crayfish are near the top of complex food webs. They hide in burrows or under rocks and aquatic plant cover during the day, and come out in the evening and at night to feed on insect larvae, snails, algae and whatever is available. They are omnivores, like the people who eat them. They flourish by eating high protein and fat animal matter, but can get along on plant
Opposite, the male swamp crayfish has two pairs of anterior swimmerets, which are enlarged and hardened. They are used to transfer sperm to the seminal receptacles of the female, bottom center.
When the Wilsons get tired of dragging crayfish patterns on the bottom (see story on page 30), they sometimes switch to a topwater frog pattern for exciting smallmouth strikes. The frog flies mimic the many species of aquatic frogs, including the 14 leopard frogs in North America. Leopard frogs are also called meadow frogs, the most common being the northern leopard frog. One of the best fly rod lures is the Joe Messinger Meadow Frog, which the West Virginia tier invented just after World War I, and his son Joe Junior still ties them today.
material and microbial-rich detritus. They play an important role in the food web, converting detritus and smaller invertebrates into something relished by the predators at the top of the food chain, from alligators to trout, bass to wading birds. Some streams in the Missouri Ozarks have so many crayfish that they constitute two-thirds of the smallmouth bass caloric intake. Since crayfish are often a very important food source for largemouth and smallmouth bass, knowledge of which crayfish are in your fishing waters is useful information. Crayfish of interest to North American fishers can be broken into categories, based on if and when they are available to fish and thus what shape, size and color of fly patterns best imitate them. The two extremes of crayfish behavior are the crayfish that are primarily burrowers and those that live in streams and usually do not burrow. The most common burrowers are the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, and P. zonangulus, the white river crawfish. These two species are farmed extensively and have spread worldwide by aquicultural schemes. The red
swamp crawfish, native to Gulf of Mexico states and those states along the Mississippi up to Illinois, have been introduced and adapted everywhere from slow-moving streams to ponds and ditches that periodically dry up. The life cycle of these burrowers includes mating in open water, with the females storing the sperm transferred from the male in a seminal receptacle, located just forward of the swimmerets. The females then dig a burrow at the edge of the drying pond and wait out the dry seasons three feet below the ground. Fertilization takes place externally months after insemination when the female transfers the sperm to eggs extruded and held in her swimmerets, making crawfish females one of the few species of animals that can store sperm for extended time periods. The burrow provides protection to the eggs. The red swamp crawfish can spawn any time conditions are favorable. Both adults and juveniles burrow when ditches and ponds begin to dry. They are available to the fish and fishers when enough surface water is around to support them. Rains bring the females to the surface carrying eggs or young, where they are protected and nurtured for
This threatened Chiricahua leopard frog looks like the majority of the 14 meadow frogs that live in North America. In Arizona, it is on the threatened list for a variety of reasons, including introduced predators such as invasive crayfish.
several weeks. Since red swamp crawfish can spawn whenever conditions are favorable, young of different age classes, sizes and colors can be in the same body of water. The white river crawfish spawn only in the fall and winter. They lack the red pigment of the red swamp crayfish, usually being a bluish-gray color. The young go through molting process about 11 times before reaching maturity. They also change color when they molt, so finding various shades ranging from light olive to dark red are the most common color for the red swamp crayfish. The molting crayfish and the subsequent soft-bodied phase just after molting are most susceptible to predation and attractive to fish, since the claws are weak and the creature is essentially defenseless. Flies that mimic the actions and match the color of newly molted crayfish may get the attention of more fish. Before molting, calcium is stored as hard gastroliths in the head around the stomach. After molting, this calcium is redistributed in the new hardening exoskeleton. The organ of balance, the statocyst, is located in the antennules and is lost with the molted exoskeleton. After the molt, the crayfish must
This juvenile red swamp crayfish just molted, and now has a soft light olive exoskeleton. Far right, a juvenile crayfish is gaining the red coloration usually seen in the adults.
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Far left, a bass in Missouri takes an Ozark crayfish (Orconectes ozarkae). In many Missouri streams, a high percentage of the smallmouth’s diet is crayfish.
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Biology on the Fly
Statocyst
The statocysts, gravity detectors, are located at the base of the taste organs, the antennules.
insert sand grains into its newly formed statocyst. This organ contains sensitive hairs that detect the motion of the sand grains when the crawfish moves, so it knows which way is up. The nature of this sensory organ was demonstrated over 100 years ago when a biologist kept molting crayfish in a tank containing iron particles, which the crayfish used as statoliths instead of sand. Applying a magnet close to the crawfish caused it to flip over. A practical fishing tip to be gleaned from this trivia is that crawfish know which way is up and maintain their correct orientation even in cloudy water. Fishing a fly that rocks and rolls in the water does not represent a natural crayfish well, so designing sleek flies that don’t rotate will catch more fish. Charles Brooks noted this fact many years ago and preferred to fish crawfish patterns with smaller claws and in shallower water to minimize wobble. The other end of the crayfish spectrum includes the stream crayfish that rarely need to burrow but hide under rocks or in vegetation to escape fish. These stream crayfish are of prime interest to fly fishers, especially those that cast for trout and smallmouth in clear streams. All crayfish flip their tails to quickly accelerate backwards when danger threatens. Mimicking this motion with your artificial fly by slowly moving it along the stream bottom and then giving it a quick strip will sometimes generate a strike. Many of these stream crayfish are in the genus Orconectes. Stream bottoms that contain cobbles and pebbles large enough to hide crawfish have high populations of these non-burrow-
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
ers. Shallow water vegetation patches and backwater pools hold high crayfish densities, with spothanded, golden and Ozark crayfish being three important and widely distributed stream crayfish in Missouri and Arkansas. The Missouri and Arkansas Ozarks are full of these streams, with adult crayfish using riffle, backwater and vegetation patches, and juveniles preferring the slower water. There are many Orconectes crayfish species in bass country throughout North America. Orconectes virilis, or the northern crayfish, is a common species distributed from Maine to North Carolina, west to New Mexico and north to Montana and southern Canada. If you want to know if a river you fish has a good crayfish population, walk along the edge of the river
around the Great Lakes. DNA studies show hybridization is common, and the rusty crayfish is assimilating the northern clearwater crayfish’s genes. Hybridization has caused the decline in many species, from Hawaiian ducks to red wolves. Biologists contend that freshwater animals in the United States have the highest extinction rates in the world and estimate that about one-third of our 390 crayfish species are at risk. Hybridization with invasive species is a major reason for this decline. In the case of crayfish, the introduction of non-natives is linked to crayfish bait fishing and expanding commercial crayfish aquaculture. The rusty crayfish and the red swamp crayfish are both considered invasive species in watersheds where they are not native.
Flies that match the backward escape motion of crawfish without wobbling catch more fish.
at night with a flashlight and a long dip net. You will see crayfish darting for cover if they are out foraging in the shallows. Orconectes rusticus, the rusty crayfish, is native to southern Ohio and Indiana. It is a stream crayfish that is very aggressive when introduced into waters with other crayfish. Bait fishers use this species as live bait and transport them far beyond their home range. Rusty crayfish have been released in many northern lakes and have displaced native stream crayfish in states around the Great Lakes. They are also in streams from New Mexico to Maine, and have caused negative stream habitat changes. They do this by clearing the stream bottom vegetation, a refuge for aquatic insects. The rusty crayfish is genetically diluting some Orconectes crayfish, including the northern clearwater crayfish
Farmed crayfish are featured in Southern cooking and especially appreciated in Louisiana gumbo. Native crayfish and native fish should also be appreciated and sustained in their home waters. Fishers should not transport and release them away from home waters and should ascertain that their home streams maintain the water quality necessary for both. The Federation of Fly Fishers Native Fish Policy states that the FFF supports fisheries management practices that recognize the value of native species and their conservation in native habitats. Crayfish would appreciate being included with fish in this policy. They would applaud with clacking claws. Verne Lehmberg from Dayton, Texas, is a longtime Federation member, excellent photographer and writer. He is the Flyfisher team’s new Biology on the Fly columnist. Give him your feedback at vernelehmberg@yahoo.com.
Photo essay by Verne Lehmberg
T
he crayfish fly favored by Terry and Roxanne Wilson is the Craw Bully, a pattern they designed. They fish the tan Craw Bully in the really clear waters of southeastern Missouri, and the olive one for the darker, more stained streams in southwestern Missouri. Duane Hada’s Creek Crawler has rubber legs to give it action, and small claws that swim through the water smoothly. The Clouser Crayfish flies also have sleek claws and are not likely to wobble when retrieved. Two of these crayfish are commercial versions of flies designed by Dave Whitlock, the Near Nuff and the Softshell Crayfish. These two flies first proved their worth in Oklahoma and Arkansas smallmouth streams and now are standard patterns. The hook rides point up, less likely to snag the bottom. All these flies are in a variety of colors as are the crayfish they mimic. They share the lifelike action in the water that is attractive to many fish species – from trout to bass.
Tan and Olive Craw Bully Terry and Roxanne Wilson Bolivar, Missouri
Also see Lehmberg's "Fly Box" on page 44.
Spring Valley Hares Ear Ron Beasley St. Louis, Missouri
Creek Crawler Duane Hada Mountain Home, Arkansas
Clouser Crayfish Dr. Ed Rizzolo Houston, Texas Near Nuff Dave Whitlock, originator
Deep Creek Crawdad The late John Colburn Formerly from Billings, Montana
Crayfish Bob Clouser, originator
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Bachman’s Crawfish Mark Bachmann The Fly Shop Welches, Oregon
Softshell Crayfish Dave Whitlock, originator
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Focus on the Fly
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
At the Vise FM Crayfish front view
FM (FULL MOTION) CRAYFISH Story and photos by John Johnson
I
t is generally recognized that crayfish are an important food source for smallmouth bass and trout. For years I have been looking for a fly pattern that would duplicate the crayfish that these game fish are so fond of. About 10 years ago, I tied and fished a crayfish pattern designed by Will Ryan that had rabbit claws and a deer hair over body. Then a couple of years ago I discovered a fly distributed by the Montana Fly Company called a Ritt’s Fighting Crayfish (originated by Fly Tying Group Governor Al Ritt) that had lead eyes and foam claws. Soon after seeing his pattern, I started working on a fly that combined the best attributes of each. Last winter at a fly-tying symposium in Toronto,
MATERIAL S Hook: Size #4 Curved 3X long nymph hook Thread: White 3/0 or “G” Lead eyes: Medium 1/30 oz Plastic eyes: Large Barbell Mono (Spirit River) Tag: Orange rabbit Feelers: Black silicone rubber Legs: Tan/brown silicone rubber Dubbing: Gray rabbit fur Body: Rust, olive, gray or tan Furry Foam (Wapsi)
4
Step
Tie in two 1½ inch silicone rubber legs on both sides of the fly behind the claws. Dub some additional rabbit fur over the thread.
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Canada, I met Jim May, who tied a fly called the May’s Full Motion Crayfish. His pattern was nearly identical to the one that I was working on except for the way the legs and claws were tied to the hook. A new pattern soon jumped off my tying vise and into the water. In November 2011, I got the chance to give it a good test. It was a calm, warm evening with a full moon. At 6:15 p.m., after catching several nice smallmouth, I tied a rust-colored FM Crayfish on my leader. In just a few minutes I caught two medium smallmouth followed by a 17-incher. Just as dark was settling around me and I was getting ready to head for home, a big fish hit the fly as I was slowly retrieving it in about five feet of water. After
a shallow roll on the surface, it took off on a screaming run downstream - ripping off 40 feet of line before I could turn it back towards the canoe. Once I got it near the canoe, the fish shot under the craft and luckily I was able to push the rod tip past the bow before it shattered from the severe bend. A couple of minutes later, I landed a beautiful 18-inch smallmouth and also decided the new pattern had passed its test with flying colors.
Step
1
Step
Insert a size 4 TMC 200R hook in vice. Figureeight wrap a 1/30 oz medium lead eye near the front of hook using white G or 3/0 thread. Tie in a few orange rabbit hairs to duplicate the orange on the crayfish claws, and then follow with two black rubber legs for feelers.
Cut a 1½ inch long by ½ inch wide piece of rust Furry Foam. Taper the end and tie it in at rear of hook. Turn the hook over and rotate the Furry Foam strip. Figure-eight wrap around a pair of large Barbell Mono eyes in front of the Furry Foam to anchor them in place.
5
Step
Step
Fold the Furry Foam over and tie it off near the middle of the hook. Dub with rabbit fur from the middle to the front of the hook.
2
6
Wrap the thread through the abdomen to give it a segmented look. Wrap the Furry Foam down in front of the eyes. Tie off the thread, cut the Furry Foam to length and whip finish the head. Mark the thread over the abdomen with a brown magic marker.
FLY TIPS Make Those ‘Dads Move By Kelly G. Glissmeyer ften, anglers “dial it in” and do everything right to achieve success in warmwater fly fishing by using the correct rod, reel, line, fly and presentation. Yet they forget to use a simple but important tactic when fishing crayfish patterns – the right tippet knot. Many crayfish imitations are designed with movement in mind. By using some type of loop knot when affixing the fly to the leader, the angler can assist in emphasizing its ability to move freely in the water column and thus prove more attractive to the fish.
O
The FM Crayfish has all the characteristics of a good fly: great action, realistic shape, durability, and fairly easy to tie. I am looking forward to catching many large smallmouth and trout, and hope it is productive for you as well. John Johnson is from Midland, Michigan, and spends most of his summers chasing large smallmouth. He can be contacted at jocko@tm.net. His website is www.JockosGuideService.com.
3
Step
Dub gray rabbit fur on thread and wrap in front of eyes and to the middle of the hook. Tie in clumps of natural gray rabbit behind the eyes for the claws.
An easy and useful knot to tie is the Non-slip Loop Knot, also known as the “Kreh Loop” as promoted by longtime Federator Lefty Kreh. Many fly fishers like to tie the knot using fluorocarbon tippet material, but the knot will also perform well when using regular monofilament. Several other knots accomplish similar results such as the Uni knot and the Rapala knot. (Go to www.NetKnot.com for detailed instructions on these and other useful fishing knots.) Find the knot that works for you and learn to tie it well; doing so will add one more tool to your arsenal and may mean the difference between a good day on the water and a great day. Kelly Glissmeyer lives with wife Cathy in Rigby, Idaho, where he enjoys spending his spare time as a demonstration flytier, presenter, lecturer, author and photographer of all things related to fly fishing.
NON-SLIP LOOP KNOT The Non-slip Loop Knot forms a non-slip loop at the end of a fishing line which can be used for attaching terminal tackle.
Make an overhand knot in the line about 10 inches from the end. Pass the tag end through the hook eye and back through the loop of the overhand knot
Wrap the tag end around the standing part 5 or 6 times. Bring tag end back through overhand knot, entering from same side it exited from before.
Moisten the knot then pull slowly on the tag end to cinch the wraps loosely together. Then pull the loop and the standing line in the opposite directions to the seat the knot. Trim tag end. Knot tying instructions, courtesy of www.NetKnots.com. Get your waterproof knot cards from www.KnotCards.com.
BT’S ROTARY TYING STATION The Station includes the vise, pedestal/tool base, and seven brass tools.
BT’s Fly Fishing Products 11965 W. Reutzel Dr. • Boise, ID 83709-4414
888-243-3597 (toll free phone & fax) www.btsflyfishing.com albeatty2@aol.com Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Back view
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Casting FLY FISHING ON THE WARMWATER SIDE By Tom Tripi
I
guess most fly fishers are fortunate to have easy access to at least one of three fly-fishing venues – warmwater, cold water or salt water. A few even have easy access to all three. However, one of these venues is available to just about everyone – warmwater. Because of geographic conditions unique to each venue, casting techniques for some have become very specialized, especially in cold water and salt water. However, warmwater is accommodating to anyone able to present a simple opened-loop cast. A warmwater environment is perfect for beginners to learn the basics of fly fishing. My purpose here is to share a few tackle thoughts and techniques that might help the beginner as well as the seasoned fly fisher catch and release more fish. From my perspective, fly fishing in warmwater has certain advantages over salt water or cold water. Many of us envision a warmwater environment as being a quiet farm pond, lazy flowing bayou, or a meandering warmwater stream. In this environment you’re not likely to encounter a stiff, offshore headwind, fast-moving tides, or freezing your lower extremities while wading in a fast-flowing cold stream. Some people like being comfortable while fly fishing, and I happen to be one of them! Nothing brings me more enjoyment than chasing bright little underwater gems on a warm day along a bank covered with tight foliage. My other option in warmwater is casting
Photo by Tom Tripi
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
“dry-fly style” for picky bass and sunfish working on rising insects over glass-smooth water. Warmwater fishing has taught me to “fish the edges,” whether from above or below the water’s surface. By edges I mean the places where fish seek protection along banks, logs, lily pads, overhanging trees, or their resulting shade lines. Not all edges are visible; thermal edges are found by following certain clues. Remember we’re talking about waters where summer temperatures can get into the 90s, so those thermal edges will change as the day unfolds. Early in the morning fish are typically working shorelines and shallows. However, when the hot sun gets high, they retreat into deeper water or look for shade. This is where edges become important. For instance, a great thermal edge may be found along dropoffs from shallow to deeper water or the moving edges of shade lines cast by trees. Trees and brush create dark caves or tunnels where they grow over the shoreline water. This environment is a surefire holding area for fish, especially larger predators like bass, large sunfish, pickerel, etc. Predators are also there due to the numbers of prey fish living in the protected, tangled structure the bank-side vegetation creates. Most of my students are oriented toward warmwater fishing, with a little brackish water thrown in now and then. Beginners ask one question more than any other: “If I had to purchase
Photo by Jeff Sympson
one fly rod for warmwater fishing, what would it be?” My short answer is an 8½-foot medium action rod loaded with a double-taper 5-weight line. Its slower “forgiving” action is well-suited for newcomers. In some situations a wispy 7-foot rod may be needed for casting under closely canopied bayous and narrow streams. On the other hand, a longer rod may better suit those who enjoy fishing in a float tube. Leaders should be knotless to shed warmwater scum and fine aquatic growth. I like to adjust my tippet size to hook size, especially when using smaller hooks. I like a 9-foot leader for many conditions but find a 12-foot leader works best for me if I’m pursuing bass with smaller dry flies. Being able to cast a straight, tight loop into dense cover will usually produce more fish than you can count, and it happens to be my favorite warmwater pursuit. I’ll sit for hours in my canoe probing the depths of a brushy shoreline for anything willing to strike. This is especially fun in skinny water about 6 inches deep. No, you’re not going to get a 4-pound bass but there are plenty of fat, colorful sunfish to keep you busy. To reach the depths in the shoreline vegetation, it’s important to master one element: being able to make a tight-loop, 20-foot cast. Making those short, tight casts involves keeping the casting stroke short (it’s simple, short stroke – short casts). It’s important to concentrate on using only the tip of
Left, casting a tight, side-armed loop into dark foliaged “tunnels� almost always produces results. Bottom-left, the author has found another use for a surplus Grizzly Adams dry fly.
Photo by Bert Duvic
the rod to emphasize the final stop during the forward cast. (The tip cast, as I call it, has been discussed in past Flyfisher issues.) This is the perfect situation to employ such a cast. Its slower, narrow loop is perfect for accurately penetrating tight cover, and its slower delivery allows the fly to lightly flutter to the surface without scaring any of the waiting sunfish or bass. Many of us have plied the waters of northern streams, presenting finely dressed Hendrickson’s or a Grizzly Adams to hungry trout. If you don’t live in an area with colder streams, you can do the same on the meandering streams located in warmer climates. When I moved to Louisiana from Upstate New York, one of the things I had to address in fly fishing was what to do with literally thousands of flies I had tied that were designed for coldwater trout streams. Many of my local FFF club members near my new home in Louisiana fished poppers in
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warmwater or a Lefty’s Deceiver in brackish water. On my first trip with them, I arrived with a few boxes of dry flies and several streamers. Guess who got the most fish and was invited to address a meeting on alternative flies for bass and redfish? Even today, many years later, I always carry a few boxes loaded with the remains of those trout flies. Sometimes those unlikely patterns will save the day for me. Warmwater is a perfect environment for the beginner or advanced fly fisher eager to learn the basics or hone their skills. There are myriad species of cooperating fish to pursue. And as a bonus for beginning tiers, most warmwater species aren’t picky. They don’t require perfectly tied flies. And remember when you master that short tight loop, you can pursue advanced casting studies by learning the artful curves necessary to cast around stumps or do aerial mends to extend the drifts of your dry fly. To me, cast-
Terry and Roxanne
Wilson Authors, speakers available for club events and shows. Slide shows, seminars, and tying demonstrations. Warmwater fly fishing. (largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and other species)
terrywil@windstream.net • 417-777-2467
ing is fun whether I’m in brackish or freshwater, and the aggressive species that live in warmwater only add to the enjoyment I find on the many waters near my home. Master Casting Instructor Tom Tripi is from Folsom, Louisiana, where he uses a fly rod and canoe to pursue his favorite fish, teaches casting to students of all ages, and studies astronomy in his spare time.
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Warmwater, long and lazy casts, and big bluegills – the author enjoys a perfect summer morning.
GETTING YOUR LADY TO FISH (WITH YOU) By Carol Oglesby “
Y
ou’re so lucky … I wish my wife would fish with me.” “My girlfriend is just not interested in fishing – I took her once, but she didn’t have a good time and won’t go again.” These are similar messages often shared by men who wish to share their on-the-water life with a significant other. Of course, there is an occasional man who has been introduced to fly fishing by a woman, and if he is fortunate the woman is a flytier as well! My husband, Pat, and I often hear comments from men who wish their partners would fish with them. People seem to picture us as an ideal fishing couple bound together in look-alike waders, boots, rods, reels and ball caps. That vision is partly true. It is a fact that we have gotten our look-alike long underwear accidentally switched. Pat was fidgety and miserable, speaking in a squeaky voice by the end of the day while I was feeling like my diet really was working. Pat and I never mix up our ball caps and vests; I am forbidden to touch his fishing hats, and he would look silly in my pink cap and purple vest. We do enjoy fishing together, though sometimes I find myself feeling competitive and inadequate while fishing with him. On the other hand, I do not feel that way with my female fishing friends. I hate to admit it, but occasionally I am cranky if I do not get the skunk off by the time Pat has hooked up a time or two. He used to try hard to get me into a fish, and that put the pressure in high gear! He hovered and offered advice. The more he coached,
Phyllis Pool and Tony Weber of Grand Junction, Colorado, get ready to launch on Utah’s Green River. Weber introduced Pool to the sport of fly fishing.
Photo by Pat Oglesby
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Woman’s Outlook
the more I made stupid casts, got hung up in trees, rocks and submerged logs, and we both ended up frustrated. Over the years, we’ve learned to go with the flow of the day and just enjoy our time on the water. Men and women have different styles and different reasons for fishing. Pat and I may start the day together
but end up separating on the stream. He goes on ahead, covering a lot of water while fishing quickly from one hole to another. I like to take my time and amble along – enjoying the scenery, pausing to watch wildlife, or casting endlessly to a single rising fish. I think men fish with the goal in mind of “catching fish” – imagine that!
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Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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“extreme-sport expedition.” For some real insight into why women take up fly fishing, get a copy of Barbara Klutinis’ DVD film “Stepping into the Stream.” It captures the spirit of women who enjoy the sport on their own terms. The majority of women begin fishing because a man in their life got them interested, but men are not the reason women stay with the sport. In the film, noted guide Lori Ann Murphy relates to years of nursing and hospital work where she observed people who had put off fun for later in life only to end up in a hospital bed. Reading a quote by Joseph Campbell, in which he advises to “follow your bliss,” Murphy was convinced the life of a fishing guide would fulfill her inner passion. Today she is one of the best! I particularly enjoyed one woman’s observations in the film concerning fishing and relationships, and I agree with her analogy. What is it? You will have to watch the DVD to
learn her insight. From my perspective, I believe there is an inner desire that leads to an attraction. A line is cast, followed by a rejection and another cast. There is a look, a flash of recognition, a sizing up of one’s attributes, then contact and the hookup. The ensuing dance is set in motion, dependent on the conditions of one’s environment and the will of the players. Finesse and slow reeling allow the contenders to come to a better understanding in the game of pursuit. In the end it’s not who wins the game but that each contender is released to follow their bliss. You may obtain a copy of “Stepping into the Stream” by sending a $25 check to Barbara Klutinis at 3935 Cesar Chavez St., San Francisco, CA 94131. Happy fishing and keep the wind at your back! Carol Oglesby from Grand Junction, Colorado, is a regular contributor to Flyfisher on female fly-fishers’ interests. You may contact her at pcoglesby@bresnan.net.
Rhea Topping
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
However, women are more likely to take in the whole experience of the day – watching clouds, smelling wildflowers, watching the dancing light on the water, and just reflecting on life. Crazy, huh? Both want to take advantage of a day away from stressors, getting fresh air and exercise. Mars and Venus – same goals, different journeys. If a woman is already an eager fly fisher, the different reasons why men and women enjoy fishing are usually not a deterrent to participating in the sport together. If your wife or lady friend is new to fly fishing, there are some things you can do to make the experience fun and rewarding for her. Save the expedition mentality and competitive edge for trips-with-the-guys and let her set the pace for the day. If she is not a morning person, save the “but-the-best-fishing-time-is-5 a.m.” talk for later. Make the day enjoyable and pack a nourishing, special lunch appropriate for the outing (no bologna and plastic-cheese sandwiches on white bread). Give her good equipment and suitable clothing. A lady new to the sport is not going to be comfortable in waders and boots that are too large, or an old vest that weighs heavily on the shoulders. Rent or borrow items and equipment that fit her and keep it simple. Give her a gift certificate for some casting lessons or a class, preferably with other women. Only rare relationships withstand the emotional pressure of teaching someone with whom you have an affectionate bond. Don’t assume you have that connection if you have failed the test even once! When you are in the water wading, give her a wading staff. Make her feel comfortable and safe in your company. Don’t leave her to wade alone while stumbling for balance in the water behind you. She may enjoy a break with an entomology lesson, comparing the bugs in the water with the flies you would fish. Enjoy the surroundings of the day, taking note of an osprey or eagle in the area or a spectacular sunset. Time the day’s end so that she will want to come back. If she is exhausted at the end of the day, she may be thinking every trip will be an
Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Fly Box Photo essay by Verne Lehmberg
W
hy tie flies? Often, a beginner flytier thinks of the savings gained by tying their own fishing flies, but the capital investment in grade 1 hackle and tools soon puts an end to that delusion. The reasons a fisher ties flies evolve and become as varied as the people that demonstrate their skills. Some become professionals like Jay Buchner and Tony Spezio, designing flies that are tops for fishing. Gene Kaczmarek creates flies for art’s sake. Jack Pangburn’s Royal Coachman and Mike Stewart’s Orange Demon, both wet flies, prove their interest in maintaining links to the past, as does Sherry Steele’s Whychus Canyon Inspiration, This steelhead fly is based on English salmon flies of the 1800s, and dramatizes the reintroduction of steelhead to a tributary of the Deschutes. Talk to the tiers at the fair and learn the history of their flies and the development of their tying specialties.
Verne Lehmberg from Dayton, Texas, is a longtime Federation member and an excellent photographer. Also see his “Biology on the Fly” on page 34.
Tony's Froggie Tony Spezio, Buszek Award 2011 Flippin, Arkansas
Czeck Nymph Scott Erikson Raymond, Alberta
Royal Coachman Jack Pangburn Westbury, New York
Pure Art Fly Gene Kaczmarek Fremont, California
Spring Valley Hares Ear Ron Beasley St. Louis, Missouri
Pocket Water Caddis James Furguson Salem, Oregon
Prince Nymph Cathy Hamilton Grants Pass, Oregon Dun Caddis Jay Buchner Jackson, Wyoming
Orange Demon Whychus Canyon Inspiration Mike Stewart Sherry Steele, The Flyfishers Place North Connecticut Sisters, Oregon [44Grandby, ] Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Upside Down Callibaetis Ian Russel Edmonton, Alberta
Photo by Steve Hanks at the Lewiston Tribune
HELPING TO SAVE THE ONE By Will Godfrey
T
he FFF Kelly Creek Fly Casters Club (KCFC) in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections started their sixth year providing fly fishing education for 13- to 18-year-old boys located at the Lewiston, Idaho facility. The boys may become participants in the program based on their progress toward rehabilitation. The program got started in 2007 after my wife, Clinical Supervisor Sandra Godfrey, asked me if I could help organize a fly fishing program that might give “her” boys an anchor to help divert their attention from criminal behavior upon their release. The idea was brought to the KCFC board with the philosophical idea of “helping to save the one.” With a positive reaction from the board, I approached Kevin Bernatz, Lewiston facility superintendent, and Terry Lewis, unit manager, to see if a program would fit into the facility’s outdoor program. The boys committed by the State of Idaho live in spartan conditions during their incarceration. During approximately a one-year timeframe, they progress through four levels of accomplishment based on their behavior. At levels three and four, boys become eligible to participate in the fly fishing program. Each KCFC teacher (male or female) completes a rigid security screening before they lead the boys in nine, two-hour sessions of hands-on instruction. The first session starts with the boys viewing the FFF video, “The Way of a Trout.” Questions and answers are then posed to the boys as they are introduced to their teachers and the basic concepts of fly fishing. Four classes are about fly tying. The leader of the session begins with instruction to the entire group by drawing the tying of a fly on a white board followed by each instructor tying the fly live for their student. The boy then ties his first fly under the direction of his teacher. Because of the nature of the facility, tools and hooks are counted in and out of each highsecurity session.
A high backcast keeps a student’s fly line from snagging the fence surrounding this high-security facility.
Boys learn to tie two flies each night, representing the nymph and adult stages of caddisflies, mayflies, stoneflies and finally a steelhead fly. A short graduation ceremony is held at the end of the fly tying sessions where each boy is presented with a set of fly tying tools that have been provided by program sponsors, Jimmy Gabeitas from All Season Anglers and Poppy from the Red Shed. Tools and flies that have been tied are placed in the personal effects locker of each boy and given to them at the time they graduate back into society. There are four fly-casting sessions. Two fundamental “on grass” sessions are held at the corrections facility, and one is on the nearby Snake River. Accuracy contests are included, as the boys seem to really love the competition. The final session is a barbecue outing where the boys cast flies they have tied to feeding trout. A final graduation is held, and the boys are presented a rod, reel and line combination along with a box of flies provided by our sponsors: Sage Rod Company, Temple Fork Rod Company, Rio Line Company, Blue Fly Cafe and Western Filament. In some cases mentoring continues once the boy is released from the corrections center; however, this part of the program is still in a developmental stage due to instructor availability near the boy’s home. The ideal situation would be that each boy connect with a
local fly fishing club and continue his fly fishing education under the direction of a local club member. Finally, the boys who participate write thank you notes to their teachers and to the sponsors. To Dave Clark, Landon wrote, “Thank you for helping me find something positive that I can do.” Cyrus wrote, “Thank you for taking time out of your life to teach me an alternative to drugs and hanging out.” Austin wrote to his teacher, Laura Gifford, “I promise you that I will stay out of trouble and use all the tools you taught me.” David wrote to his instructor, Bruce Young: “I didn’t catch a lot of fish, but the four I did catch were all because of what you taught me. Fly fishing is a great recreational activity that I plan on carrying on and teaching my family.” Jake wrote: “When I was a kid, my dad would not support me and was too busy doing his own things to teach me how to fish. You probably didn’t know you were going to bring me and my father together.” In the eyes of all participants, the program has been a success in “helping to save the one.” What about your club, state or region? Will Godfrey joined FFF in 1965 as a young charter member. He served 13 years in FFF administration and has been involved in fly fishing, wild fish conservation and fundraising for more than 45 years. Will is a grandpa 13 times over and lives in Lewiston, Idaho, on the Clearwater River with his fly-fishing wife, Sandra.
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Conserving, Restoring and Educating Through Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Heritage
FFF ANNUAL DONOR REPORT Each year the Federation of Fly Fisher’s general revenues depend on the generous support of individuals and organizations to sustain our programs. The board of directors would like to express their sincere appreciation to the contributors noted below who provided that support in 2011. Special Recognition YOT Full Circle Foundation Hyde Drift Boats Employee Matching Gifts Programs Chevron Easy Match Community Shares of Minnesota Grainger Matching Contribution Gift Program John Hancock JP Morgan Chase Merrill Lynch Co. Foundation Standard Insurance Company Thomas Reuters President's Club Pledges of $5,000+ Platinum Moseley, Paul Gold Long, Bob Schramm, Jim and Dorothy Silver Bishop, Don Breslin, John Brown, Richard and Mary Cordes, Ron Great Lakes Council FFF Grant, Gary Jindra, Tom and Debra Stroh, Bill Trishman, Fred Van Gytenbeek, Peter Bronze Evans, Lew and Tilda Frasca, Bud Gibbs, Larry Greenlee, Philip Groty, Keith James, David Johnson, Carl Kettler, Herb Knight, Ron and Sheryl Lewis, Dean Lovell, Doug Maler, Roger and Tracie Malpass, Howard Miller, Roger and Sandy Northern California Council FFF Sadler, Tom Schmitz, Fred Scientific Anglers, Dell Dauss Steele, Sherry Stewart, Michael Winn, Ron Patron Gibbs, Larry Grant, Gary Hoffman, Henry Jindra, Tom & Jindra Keokee Publishing, Chris Bessler Northern Arizona Flycasters, President & Members Pacific Fly Group, Schramm, Jim and Dorothy
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Tritsch, Robert Zarelli, Carl Benefactor Chase, Philip Evans, Lew & Tilda Frasca, Bud Gimbel, Donald Heide, Ralph Herritt, John Hubbard, James Johnson, Carl Knight, Beverly Maler, Roger & Tracie Pitts, Greg and Mary Jo Sadler, Tom Stewart, Michael The Industrial Company, Wyoming, Inc, President Washington Fly Fishing Club, President & Members Advocate Aguabonita Flyfishers, President & Members Bartley, Timothy Bolling, Timothy Brown, Rodger Groty, Keith Hosfield, Skip Lewis, Dean Miller, Roger and Sandra Perry, Sam Perry, Stephen Reed, Keith San Pedro Fly Casters Club, President & Members Schmidt, Fred Southern Oregon Fly Fishers, President & Members Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers, President & Members Steamboaters, President & Members Steelehead Society of British Columbia, President & Members Totem Flyfishers, President & Members Williams, Rick Supporter Armour, V K Arvanites, Dokson Beatty, Danny Beckstead, Jay Billings, William Black, Jean Calleton, Richard Carlton, Jeffrey Cederwall, Mark Computer Care Technology Inc, Randy Schumacher Cordes, Herman Croft, Larry Derby City Fly Fishers, President & Members Donaldson, Broderick Fullerton, Clement Gaille, Spencer Gambitsky, Peter Gifford, Grant Huntley, Hubert John & Marilyn Olson Foundation
Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
Kirschner, Bruce Kneass, Don Lawler, Don Malencik, Dean Mathews, Craig McRoberts, James Myers, Jerry Newmeyer, Chuck Ozog, Mark Penobscot Fly Fishers, President & Members Reap, James Rose, John Rowland, Patrick Shivers, Brian Snyder, Judy Sternberg, Terry Sullivan, John Vynalek, Jim Wallace, Jim Weitz, Paul Wilderness Fly Fishers, President & Members Williams, Stephen Contributor Ancho, Candice Adams, John Adams, Laurie Adams, Lynn Albrecht, Richard Aldridge, Michael Anderson, Dennis Anderson, Gary Anderson, Jackson Anderson, Pete Antilla, Rodney Archer, Jon Armstrong, James Arnold, Rowland Asahina, Stuart Aubrey, Jim and Donna Bachman, Ken Baker, Bruce Bard, Gary Barnhart, James Barnhart, Teddy Barnum, Mike and Carol Bates, Bob Beatty, Al Beemer, Howard Bender, David Bennett, Linda Berg, Edward and Cliffe Berry, Lloyd Berry, Tom Bethel, Howard Biesecker, Roland (Ron) Bischof, Lou Blevins, James Blue Mountain Fly Casters, President & Members Bodine, William Bolstad, Donald Bonamarte, Richard Bounds, Ted and Ann Bourgeois, Jim Bozman, J.R. Brady, Thomas Braud, Ronald Braune, Jutta Brindlen, Hanes Brinkley, Michael
Broadbent, James Brown, Barbara Brown, Bruce Brown, David Brown, David F Brown, Larry Brown, Richard and Mary Brown, Russel and Leila Burge, Richard and Mary Burk, John and Sue Bursel, Joseph Burton, Herb Busby, Dan Byrd, John California Fly Fishers Unlimited, President & Members Canfield, Alan Carlson, Arthur Carter, Fred Casey, Dan Cashdollar, Tim Cates, M L Cebula, Jerome Chartrand, OJ Cheney, Elizabeth Chervenak, Louis Chmielowiec, Jack Christie, Mark Cirillo, Robert Clancy, Mike Clark, Robert Clay, Phillip Cleckley, William Clements, Donald Colaw, Breton Kip Cole, Jonnie and Vivian Collins, David Connolly, Marcia Corson, John Crawford, Michael Cummings, Terrence Curcione, Nicholas Cutforth, Letitia Dahlberg, Clay Davis, Ed Davis, Gary Davis, Rodney DeMott, Robert Dempsey, Thomas Denchfield, Chris Denton, M. Rodney Depoe, Kenneth Detore, Perry Deveney, Gina Devitt, Troy Dicicco, Anthony Diener, Terry Dinkel, Charles Dippert, Paul Dokovna, Aran Doll, Mike Domoto, Paul Doyle, Sam Drab, Joe Draper, Thomas Duane, Warren Dueltgen, Ronald Duffield, Curtis Dunham, Patrick Dunn, George Eaton, Homer Eck, Robert Edmiston, Jim and Marni
Ehrman, Gordon Emrick, Bill Erickson, Richard Ester, Leslie Evenson, William Fanning, Richard Faulkner, Larry Faulkner, Marty Fearn, Brian Fechner, Roger Felsens, Oscar Felts, Bill Ferchalk, Neil Fine, Don Finesilver, Alan and Cindy Finney, Lowell Flad, Deborah Flynn, Robert Forgey, T.C. Fox, Robert Francy, Robert Fraunfelder, Judy and Bob Friis, Belinda Frink, Ronald Froelich, Karl Frost, John G E Foundation, President Gabrion, Michael Gateway Hook Company, President Gay, John Gibbs, Stephen Giffin, Larry Giloth, Kirk Glemba, Roman Goforth, Timothy Gonzalez, Mark Goodman, Robert Goodwin, Paul Gorman, Ross Goss, John Gough, Fran Graham, Karen Grandma’s Treasures, Manager Grau, Walter Grebe, Walter Green, Kevin Greiner, Terry Grossman, Barry Hagness, Dean Hall, Neal Hall, William Hammerstad, Charles Hansell, Robert Hansen, Scott Harang, Bruce Harpole, Jim Harvey, Phillip Hauser, Larry Hayes, Gordon Hayes, William Head, Tom Heater, James Heider, J. L. Helm, Judith Henderson, Tom Henemuhle, Robert Henry, Bill Hepworth, Layne Hess, Allan Highley, James Hill, Gordon Hinden, Donald Hodgson, Charles
Hoffberg, Neal Holder, James Holmes, Fred Hooton, Robert Hoover, Alan Hubert, Jeffery Humphrey, David Hunter, Robert Hutchinson, David Jacot, Kenneth Jenkins, Felton Jenkins, Stephen Jennings, Frederic Jewett, Daniel Jobson, Tom Johns , Carl Johnson, David Johnson, Don Johnson, Dwight Johnson, Ray Johnson, Richard Johnson, Richard E Johnson, Robert Johnston, Mark Johnston, William V Jones, Dundee Jones, Thomas Jorgensen, Susan Joseph, Michael Kalivas, Risty Kaminski, James Kammel, Robert Kapolka, Michael Kassan, Ron Kato, Alan Kautz, Bruce Keaton, Robert Keller, Charles Kellogg, Dick & Sue Kenney, Thomas Killingsworth, James Kimura, John Kindelan, Juan King, Edward Klein, George Klingberg, Daniel Kluczynski, Robert A Kneass, Don Knoles, Richard Koester, Allen Kosmicki, Nick Kozuki, Mits Kress, George E and Judith A Krumm, Leonard Kulis, Leroy LaBouy, Helen and Bob LaBranche, Leo Lack, Larry Laing, Michael Lambert, Steve Lancefield, Neil D Larson, Gene Latham, Elmer Lawson, David E Lawson, Tim Leasure, Robert Lee, Don Lee, Jim Leggett, Leon and A C Lemke, David Leonard, Craig Lewis, George Lewis, Herb Licursi, Sal Liedle, James Ligon, Ronald Lingren, Art Lipuma, Joseph
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Schwartz, Joseph Schwarz, Ronald Scoggins, Thomas Seaholm, Malcolm Searles, Harry See, Alva Seldon, Marty Semenik, Molly Serunian, John Severn, Doff Shanahan, John Shaver, Bennie Shean, John Shively, James Shuman, Leigh Skehan, Michael Skierka, Leonard Skillman, David Skutt, Richard Smith, Edward W. Smith, Edward L. Smith, Ira Smith, James Smith, John Smith, Robert and Frances Snyder, James and Gay Souser, Craig Spalding, Kenneth Spence, Andrew Spence, Justin Spencer, Steven Spieske, Doug Springer, Harold Sprung, Douglas Stahl, Fay Stand-N-Fish, President Stanton, Jim Starkin, Don Starr, Michael Steffens, Dale Steinberger, Richard Stevens, Joe Stewart, Richard Strawbridge, Richard Stromsness, Crhis Summit Asset Management, President & Staff Sutthoff, Andy Swanson, Neil Tabbert, Robert Tanimura, Katsumi Tarkington, Andrew Taverna, Charles Thomas, David Thomas, John Thompson, Sam Three Rivers Fly Fishers, President & Members
Tideswell, Robert Toth, Sandra Trainor, Scott Trammell, John Tronquet, Pete Uber, Alex Vander Ark, Condon Vasquez, Joe Vettori, James Victorine, Jim Vidrio, Rick and Carol Villella, Dominick Vogel, Dan Vosmik, George Wagner, Richard Walck, Greg and Sheryl Waldvogel, James Wales, Harold Walker, Leslie Walker, Mark Waller, Gerald Walthour, George Wanamaker, John Warren, Stephen Wasmund, Thomas Watkins, Lory Watts, Richard and Nancy Webb, Steve Weber, Walt Weiner, Andrew Welty, Dwan Wenatchee Valley Flyfishers, President & Members Werner, Kirk Westerberg, George Whetstone, Daniel Whetzel, Julie White, William Wieland, Daniel Wierzbinski, Stephen Williams, Bill Williams, L. Donald Williams, Michael Willis, Norman Winter, Dick Winzler, John Woodard, Becky Woods, John Wooldridge, Thomas Wright, Keith Wright, Sam Yeager, Mike and Mary Yotsuuye, Gene Zagar, Robert Zickler, Leonard Ziesler, Robert Zinky, Dorothy
Thank You! Flyfisher Spring - Summer 2012
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Federation of Fly Fishers 5237 U.S. Highway 89 South, Ste. 11 Livingston, MT 59047-9176
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage
PAID
Post Falls, ID Permit No. 32