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l a i r o t i d E An unusual year is behind us and we are all glad it’s just that; behind us. At the same time, it seems like many challenges still lie ahead.
As I’m writing this, many countries are experiencing lockdowns to limit the spread of Covid-19. Flyfishing seems unimportant, but for many – especially over the course of last year - it has provided a scene and an escape; a sphere where, at least, some things remain normal and immutable. It’s also proven a great way to follow the authorities’ recommendations to practice social distancing. Dealers and distributors across Europe have experienced record sales in a period where many businesses have been struggling to keep their heads above water. Internet sales have clearly gained market shares in countries that have experienced lockdowns. It has also been great to see the number of people who have taken up flyfishing or reconnected with the sport. We’ve seen this in our sales figures, but also when out fishing. Never before have our streams and lakes been visited by more people. Hopefully this will continue, also after the pandemic, and help heighten people’s awareness when it comes to protecting our precious fisheries and waterways. Now, vaccine programs are rolled out across Europe and we are hopeful that, sometime during 2021, we can go back to something close to normality. Let’s agree to continue to pursue our dreams whether it’s holding a permit, chasing gigantic brown trout on the other side of the globe, or hunting for local species in your local waters. I know one thing for sure: I’m not going to wait around to do it. Who knows what tomorrow brings! Petri Heil MD // Flyfish Europe
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Water
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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006 PHELPS LAKE:
FLY FISHING FOR TROPHY PIKE IN THE CANADIAN WILDERNESS
084 BONEFISH:
BACK TO WHERE IT ALL STARTED
028 LAYERS:
WHAT TO WEAR UNDERNEATH YOUR WADERS
094 GRAN CANARIA:
A TOURIST MAGNET WITH GREAT FLY FISHING POSSIBILITIES
070 SCOTLAND:
SALMON, SCOTCH AND SO MUCH MORE
106 DENMARK:
TARGETING PIKE IN SHALLOW, PRIVATE WATERS
CONTENTS 000 002 016 093 102 114 4
REGAL SMITH OPTICS SIMMS RODMOUNTS SCOTT FLY RODS WATERWORKS-LAMSON
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
126 131 132 147 188 201
C&F DESIGN
Cover Photo: Rasmus Pabst Ovesen
MCLEAN
Editorial staff: Rasmus Ovesen, Roy Thue, Tom Roger Bekkeli, Tommy Josefsen, Jarle L. Kristiansen Artwork & Design: Rasmus Ovesen Repro: Basecamp AS Print: UAB Spaudos Konturai, Vilnius.
SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS OMNISPOOL LOON OUTDOORS TROUTHUNTER
Copyright © Flyfish Europe AS 2020. This Catalogue is produced by Flyfish Europe. We reserve the right for any incorrect information or fault in printing and take no responsibility for either. This cataloge is printed on environmentally friendly paper.
180 SILVER CREEK:
WESTERN FLY FISHING CULTURE FROZEN IN TIME
120 RUSSIA:
THE ATLANTIC SALMON RESERVE
190 TACTICS:
HOW TO CATCH TROUT ON BOOBY DAMSELS
128 FLY TYING:
THE SUPER-EFFECTIVE BRUSH ‘N WING MINNOW
196 FLY TYING:
LEARN HOW TO TIE THE WIGGLING SANDEEL
174 ATLANTIC SALMON: CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLY LINE
[ ] Credits
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A big and appreciative thanks to all the contributors who have provided inspiring content for this magazine // Matt Harris, Jonatan Ternald,
Rasmus Ovesen, Thomas Søbirk, Martin Ejler Olsen, Peter Lyngby, Morten Valeur, Håkan Karsnäser, Andrew Miller, Anders Ovesen, Cornelia Wieser, Brett Zundel, Omar Gade, Jonathan Muir, James Muir, Marek Sidor, David
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Cannon, Darcy Bachy, Matt Sherman, Dylan Schmitz, Brian Grossenbacher FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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PHELPS LAKE Fly Fishing for Trophy Pike in the Canadian Wilderness
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Why travel all the way to Canada, to the opposite side of the globe, to fly fish for pike? After all, you can do that in any random lake, pond or river at home. The answer is actually quite simple: The Canadian wilderness is a place where you can still experience untouched pike fishing; a unique and compelling escape for those who dream of catching a veritable trophy pike. Rasmus Ovesen Rasmus & Anders Ovesen IF THERE IS A CARBON-DIOXIDE HELL that’s probably where I’ll be going after this trip. I have already covered three flights in order to get to the city of Saskatoon in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, and - early tomorrow morning - another three flights await before I’m ready for the final leg of the journey: A flight that departs from the barren outpost, Stony Rapids, in the north-western corner of Saskatchewan, and one that involves an old DeHavilland Turbo Otter hydroplane; a Canadian manufactured plane that had its heyday in the post-World War II-era. After two days of arduous travelling, the propeller-driven air freighter will touch down on Phelps Lake’s vast water surface and moor at Wolf Bay Lodge in the middle of the Canadian wilderness. Luckily, as time will tell, what awaits me is nothing short of an untouched fishing paradise and a trophy pike fishery that is well worth the eternal flames of the abyss below. ON OUR WAY, from the dead airspace above Saskatchewan, I can see how we’re slowly transcending the familiar realm of civilization and disappearing into what appears to be a massive void, way beyond. Symmetrical and lush-green pastures neatly outlined by fences, field boundaries and bordering gravel roads are gradually relieved by vast woodlands, the monotony of which is only broken sporadically by the flickering waters of ancient, glacial lakes and quietly meandering rivers. For a while, there are still sporadic gravel roads, timber industry, wooden cabins, and the odd uranium mine to be seen below us, but as we continue onwards all traces of mankind slowly ebb away. It is as if the flat landscape down there gradually absorbs and transforms everything around it, ultimately leaving nothing but an infinite monotony of anorectic pine trees, chaparral and water that takes on a wealth of rebellious and imaginative shapes. Once on the hydroplane with a course set for Phelps Lake, the landscape unfurling below is like an obstinate human vacuum: Interminably empty and without all the cynically calculating traces that otherwise reveal themselves wherever humans have settled or frequently pass through. There is nothing but wilderness as far as the eye can see. 2 HOURS LATER, Phelps Lake manifests itself below us: Silently resting deep in the terrain, with all its chaotic branches, shallow bays and jagged islands in stark contrast to the stoicism of its water surface. It’s an early summer day in the middle of June. Warm light floods the vast expanse underneath the saturated blue skies. A FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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comprehensive high-pressure system has killed all winds, and when we finally land, it’s like touching down on a big mirror. After having said hello to Wolf Bay Lodge-owner, Brent Osika, who greets us at the landing bridge, things unfold quickly. My brother, Anders, and I have half a day’s worth of fishing ahead of us, and soon we find ourselves in a Linder skiff with Merasty B Jason; one of the experienced local guides. The skiff cuts across the flat water with surgical precision. It navigates at a high speed through narrow passages, wide-open expanses and big bays. And being surrounded by nothing but forest, I soon lose all sense of orientation and locality. It’s an intoxicating feeling and it is further amplified when – after a 20-minute boat ride - we arrive at a big, shallow bay, the engine is cut off and a deafening silence descends upon us. THE PIKE ARE STILL IN THE SHALLOWS. The spawning – and a long, ice-cold winter – is but a dimming memory, and the fish are hungry. Now, as Jason explains, it’s simply a matter of finding the fish. They tend to school up in the many bays; the shallow ones with dark, muddy bottoms where the water gets warmed effectively up by the sun and baitfish are fairly abundant. We still have no idea, however, that we’ll be sight-fishing for them in less than half a meter of water – and, on several occasions, in- and along flooded meadows. It doesn’t take long before we find the first few fish. They are hovering above the bottom along shorelines or in places where cabbage beds have slowly started to seep from the silty lake floor. They’re not downright easy to see – not even though the water is surprisingly clear, but it’s obvious that these fish are all small males. We’re soon busy warming up. And it doesn’t take long before the first few pike have shut their spike mat-like jaws around our flies. Despite the fact that they’re looking rather apathetic, as they stand there semi-petrified along the bottom, they - sure enough - are hungry and aggressive. They promptly react at the sight of our rabbit Zonkers, hunt them down with gluttonous ferocity and, oftentimes, inhale
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
them right along the boat-side in big, splashy explosions of water. It’s been a while since my brother and I have fished for pike, but we’re quickly reminded why we both love to target this lightning-quick and sinister predatory fish. We haven’t travelled this far, however, to fish for small pike and the guide is quite well aware of it. So, having rekindled our reflexes, shortly, on a handful of smaller pike, we therefore move on to another one of the lake’s countless bays. HAVING RECONNOITRED an additional three bays, we finally make it to a small outpouching in the northern corner of the lake. The bay inside, which is backlit by the drowsy beams of the evening-sun, doesn’t look like much at first. The entrance is so shallow that we need to use oars to get in, and at first glance across the dark, ochre-coloured water, there are no signs of pike. It isn’t until we reach the far corner of the bay that I see the shadow of a big pike underneath two bowed moss-clad pine trees, inside a patch of flooded meadow grass. The fish isn’t alone! Several skittish male pike, which by comparison look distinctly immature and juvenile, stick to the big female – with their lives as a potential stake. With lightly-trembling fins and a tense, aggressive look on her face, she seems likely, at any given moment, to suddenly lunge a malicious attack on one of her suiters. That impression is further enhanced, shortly after, when I cast and place my light-grey rabbit-strip Zonker on the edge of the flooded grass. As the fly hits the water, the big pike is instantly on it – with several smaller pike dragging vigilantly behind. I provide the fly with a little bit of action, making it wind and twist pulsatingly below the surface. The pike instantly shoots forward, ploughing purposefully through the water, and all of a sudden the fly has disappeared into the massive cavity inside the fish’ jagged jaws. I set the hook instinctively – so promptly that the cork handle squeaks, and I now feel the weight of the fish as it thrashes about whirling up the muddy bottom and sending cascades of water meter-high into the air. A hectic fight, with several explosive runs, ensues. The fish, however, is solidly hooked and eventually the fish yields to the persistent pressure from the fly rod’s powerful carbon fibres, and
“
The pike instantlyshoots forward, ploughing purposefully through the water.
The pike would congregate in shallow bays and we typically lined right up against the vegetation.
Most of the fishing is done by boat but, sometimes, it’s great to get out and wade fish the shallows.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Anders Ovesen releasing another chunky pike well over one meter.
“
As we wrap up and head back to the lodge, we’re in a state of chock!
Phelps Lake is a bit turbid, but no more than it’s still possible to sight-fish for the pike.
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
it capsizes close to the boat. It’s bigger than first anticipated, and it is with much effort and strain that I manage to lift it aboard the skiff. A QUICK MEASUREMENT reveals a length of 125 wellproportioned centimetres. My dream of catching a big wilderness pike has come true – and in a spectacularly visual way. We shoot a quick series of pictures in the shallow water along the bank, and as the fish thrusts itself free of my hand and powerfully swims away from the scene of the crime, I draw a sigh of relief. Mission accomplished! There’s no time to rest on the laurels, however. A faint, whispering, ”Psst” sounds from the casting platform where the guide is perched and pointing towards the water. And as we join him, we quickly spot another big pike – and another one, and another one... LESS THAN TWO HOURS LATER we have caught an additional seven full-grown pike with three of them well in excess of 120 centimetres; all of them sight-fished with thunderously brutal takes as a result in the shallow water along the shoreline. Furthermore, we have cast at a couple of fish in the vicinity of 135cm – fish, that for whatever reason, just didn’t respond to our flies. As we wrap up and head back to the lodge, we’re in a state of chock. Never before have we experienced such hectic pike fishing with so many big fish. But as we’re about to find out, during the next five days, this is nothing out of the ordinary on Phelps Lake. During our stay here, we sight-fish another 200 pike with 40 of them well over one meter and several additional fish in the 110 - 120-centimeter span. Furthermore, we get to experience some cool dry fly- and nymph fishing for trophy lake whitefish and, not least, some sweat-dripping streamer fishing for the feisty lake char that school up along Phelps Lake’s drop offs. But that’s a completely different story of course... The impression I take with me from the lake is decidedly unambiguous. It may be madness to travel way beyond the outskirts of civilization - to the middle of the vast Canadi-
an wilderness, in search for pike. But it’s most certainly an experience, I would never have been without – and one that I’d readily recommend anyone, who has a propensity towards big toothy predators in untouched surroundings.
Fact File - Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake is a massive lake in the north-eastern corner of the Canadian province, Saskatchewan. It’s a glacial lake with a surface area of about 130 km2, and with the exception of a few areas with up to 30 meters of depth, it is an incredibly shallow lake – something that makes it an ideal habitat for pike. With more than 300 islands, countless reefs, backwaters, bays and tributaries with clear water, you couldn’t possibly charter all the good fishing spots in a full week. And since there are an additional 60 km2 of prime fishing waters to be reached on foot or via channels and tributaries, you could argue that Phelps Lake represents a whole fishing area, rather than just a single body of water. The season stretches from the middle of June, from ice out, until the end of August, at which point winter is already looming. At the beginning of the season you can experience some incredibly exciting sight-fishing for pike. At this time of year, these fish will have just finished spawning in the myriad of shallow bays and flooded meadows around the lake, and they will be both hungry and aggressive. During the summer months and onwards till the end of the season, the fishing is typically translocated to the many drop offs, reefs and islands, where Lily pad- and cabbage beds rise from the bottom. Catches in excess of 50 1 meter+ pike per boat per week are not uncommon, and every year several specimens larger than 130 centimetres are caught. The lodge record is closer to 150 centimetres. In addition to the spectacular pike fishing, it is also possible to catch trophy white fish and giant lake char (Salvelinus namaykush) on Phelps Lake. The latter can be found in tremendous numbers, especially at the south-end of the lake, where the depth drops to about 30 meters. At the beginning of the season, fast-sinking lines and weighted streamers are used to connect with them, but as summer progresses and the water heats up, they rise towards the surface. Here, they can be fished with floating and intermediate lines, and although the average size is relatively modest – around 2-3 kilos – it’s by far uncommon to catch fish in the vicinity of 10 kilos. Although these fish are minimally targeted, specimens in excess of 20 kilos are caught every year – and 30 kilos+ fish are certainly around.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Rasmus Ovesen showing off one of Phelps Lake’s lake char. This was one out of many caught during a quick session with sinking lines.
An average lake char. The biggest in the lake weight well in excess of 25 kilos.
Fact File - Wolf Bay Lodge
Wolf Bay Lodge is the only lodge with a license to guide and fish on Phelps Lake, and since the lake is extremely secluded – and the only way to get there is by hydroplane – the fishing pressure is very minimal. The lodge, which has been in operation since the early 90s, has an authentic wilderness feel and is rather rudimentary and basic without compromising comfort. In total, there’s room for six fishermen at the lodge, and they all fish from Linder skiffs with big casting platforms in front. For additional information about prices, check the following link: https://monsterpike.ca or send an email to camp manager, Brent Osika: wolfbay@mts.net A regional Saskatchewan fishing license is mandatory, and you’ll need to buy it ahead of your trip to Phelps Lake. I can be bought online: https://saskatchewanlicences.active.com/ licensing.page For additional information about the many exciting fishing possibilities in Saskatchewan, and the wealth of other interesting wilderness- and vacation activities in the area, visit Tourism Saskatchewan: http://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com
Fact File - Equipment
When fly fishing Phelps Lake for pike, 9´ 9 to 10-weight rods paired up with floating or intermediate WF lines are typically used. Lighter rods can be used too, since really big flies are rarely necessary. However, since there are great chances of hooking a real monster, 9-weight – or even better; 10-weight – fly rods are to be preferred, since they will effectively aid in landing and releasing the fish. With regards to the flies, especially 15 – 20-centimetre-long rabbit strip Zonkers in light colours – preferably with weed guards that allow you to fish them along the bottom or through weeds and Lily pads - work well. Furthermore, small imitations of the lake’s small, silvery baitfish are effective, and the same goes for noisy poppers and Gurgglers. 12
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Be sure to bring along a 9’ 5-weight and a few dry flies and nymphs if you’re interested in catching one of the many trophy whitefish in the lake. Otherwise, you surely need to bring an extra 10-weight, or even a 12-weight fly rod, paired up with a fastsinking fly line. The massive lake char in Phelps Lake are, no doubt, worth your effort and time. The flies used for them are somewhere between 20 – 25 centimetres in length, weighted, and in bright colours that will attract attention even at the dimmest of depths.
“
The massive lake char in Phelps Lake are, no doubt, worth your time.
The fishing is done from the boat deck, but you might consider bringing a pair of waders if you’re curious about the neighbouring waters, or if you like to get into the water for a few pictures with your trophy catch. Additionally, there are several clothing items that you need to consider bringing. The weather conditions at the lake are actually quite stable but make no mistake: The conditions can change dramatically from one day to the next. Therefore, you should pack some wind- and rainproof shell outerwear that is capable of keeping you warm and dry. Also, be sure to bring warm layering, such as thermal wool tops and bottoms. Early in the season, the temperatures typically don’t exceed 15 – 20 degrees, but during the summer months it gets warmer. However, be sure to prepare for cold weather, and don’t forget that it can be particularly cold in the morning. Depending on the weather conditions, there can be a lot of mosquitos in the area and, as a result, it’s a good idea to bring along a mosquito net and some insect repellent. We had great experience with using a new series of BugStopper-clothing from Simms; a highly technical type of impregnated clothing that effectively deters mosquitos, gnats, ticks, horse flies and other bothersome insects. Also, don’t forget sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses as a defence against the sun and its reflections on the water. The latter serves an important additional purpose, of course. They are crucial when it comes to sight-fishing for pike in the shallow bays.
Fact File - Logistics
In order to get to Phelps Lake and Wolf Bay Lodge you need to travel via either Toronto or Calgary to Saskatoon, where you land on a Sunday and stay the night over. From here, a domestic flight, which Wolf Bay Lodge will help arrange, will take you to the outpost, Stony Rapids, on Monday morning. The last leg of the trip, from Stony Rapids to Wolf Bay Lodge, is covered by hydroplane and it takes about 2 hours. Whitefish can be targeted nymphs and small dries.
using
Click here to watch the film FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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A combination of thoughtful design, rugged materials and endless testing go into making the world’s highest quality waders. But what they really take is patience – as much patience as it takes to wait for that tug on the end of your line. Because great waders are never mass produced by machines. They are made one at a time by craftspeople – men and women in Bozeman, Montana who are anglers just like you. GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL outerwear is waterproof, exceptionally lightweight and offers the ultimate in breathability, durability and extended comfort. Constructed with a woven backer, GORE-TEX® Pro Shell garments slide easily over other layers and offer exceptional tear strength and internal abrasion-resistance.
TIZIP stands for absolutely waterproof, very robust zippers for demanding use. TIZIP zippers are airtight and watertight up to a water pressure of 500mbar due to a thick coating of thermoplastic polyurethane. The high impermeability makes opening and closing somewhat harder.
Toray s a heavy-duty engineered fabric with a microporous waterproof coating that utilizes 2-layer coated fabric, a single membrane layer and a tricot backer to offer improved durability.
5.11® HEXGRID• is a patented load-bearing technology platform that surpasses military-style web platforms (PAlS/MOllE). This laser-cut platform creates a continuous hexagonal grid pattern, oftering versatile mounting capabilities like never before. 5.11® HEXGRID• provides users with the opportunity to mount pouches and other gear at different angles for smooth ergonomic access and personal preference.
All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing. Uniquely designed to evade fish, River Camo offers you an edge at beating detection, so you can get one step closer to the fish and that perfect casting position. In collaboration with Veil Camo, Simms® developed River Camo—a cutting edge, proprietary and mathematically driven camouflage pattern for fish—by breaking up shapes.
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT www.flyfisheurope.com
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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WADERS MADE BY HAND. HEART. AND SOUL. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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#FishItWell Our most durable wader features a new, proprietary fabric from GORE-TEX® proven over 16,000 hours of field testing. Make the most of your time on the water: Head out in the most feature-laden, abrasion-, punctureand tear-resistant wader made. The Simms G4Z® Stockingfoot Wader has been meticulously refined to offer features and functionality that meet the demands of the world’s most discerning guides and anglers.
® G4Z STO C K I N G F OOT Click here to watch product presentation
Extended YKK AquaSeal waterproof zipper for quick relief and easy on/off
Adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system with opposing Duraflex buckles for waist-high conversion, now with a fabric suspender divider
Patented baffled, compression-molded Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot fit/lace bite
2 zippered chest pockets with integrated retractor docking stations for strategic access to fishing essentials Zippered, micro-fleece lined handwarmer pockets for added storage and appreciated cold-weather reprieve
%(67 2) 6+2:
Built-in, lower profile GORE-TEX® belt loops for enhanced strength and durability
0(1¶6 :$'(56 '(19(5 &2
Patented front & back leg seams for enhanced mobility and increased durability Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
Patented 2mm abrasion resistant built-in gravel guards
FABRIC TECH: GORE-TEX® 3-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN UPPER / GORE-TEX® 4-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN LOWER AND SEAT
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > ANATOMICAL STOCKINGFOOT
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WADERS
Simms’ most durable wader that’s been meticulously refined to offer features and functionality that meet the demands of the world’s most discerning guides and anglers. The Simms G4 Pro® Stockingfoot Wader is the most features a wealth of design- and material innovations that, combined with the greatest attention to detail and functionality, provide you with the ultimate in comfort and durability.
® G4STO PCRKO I N G F OOT Click here to watch product presentation
Zippered, micro-fleece lined reach-thru hand-warmer pocket for strategic storage and cold-weather reprieve
Streamlined belt loop system. Built-in, lower profile GORE-TEX belt loops enhance strength and durability and minimize line catch
Sharkfin Buckle - Keep your hemostats close at hand with our patented buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately)
Adjustable air-mesh suspender system with opposing Duraflex buckles for waist-high conversion, now with a fabric suspender divider
Top zippered chest pocket with fly patch/tool docking station for easy access to fishing essentials
Patented front & back leg seams for enhanced mobility and increased durability
Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
Patented 2mm abrasion resistant built-in gravel guards
Patented baffled, compression-molded Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot fit/lace bite
TM
R er) TE N DE de Wad TI PPET in G4 Pro Gui ed d lu (Inc
FABRIC TECH: GORE-TEX® 3-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN UPPER / GORE-TEX® 4-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN LOWER AND SEAT
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > ANATOMICAL STOCKINGFOOT
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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#FishItWell
Wading
ESSENTIALS PRO WADING STAFF - CARBON
Lightweight and rigid carbon fiber tubing. Contoured cork around handle allows for secure grip. Locking detent button and adjustable FastLock for customized length between 130 and 142cm.
G3 WADING STAFF - BLACK
Strength and simplicity win the CFS battle with this modern take on the classic wading tool. Lightweight yet highly durable 7075 aluminum tubing with coated stainless steel cable and ribbed closed-cell foam handle
NEW
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
WADING STAFF - RETRACTOR & RUBBER TIP
1. Keep your wading staff secure and at the ready, with this bomber retractor built with a braided 1m Spectra cable. 2. A rubber tip for better grip on the river bottom.
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
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Time on the stream is time well spent. And with the G3 Guide™ Stockingfoot Wader, those precious hours can be comfortable and well-ventilated. The G3 has all the in-river essentials you need, with legendary Simms durability that can stand up to heavy use in rugged conditions. Rigging a hopper-dropper combo just became a little easier with the help of a flip-out Tippet Tender®™ pocket with dual-entry zippers and Super-fly Patch® with integrated utility tabs. And numb, sore feet are a thing of the past with anatomically designed neoprene stockingfeet with a funk-fighting anti-microbial finish.nd road’s end.
TM GSTOC 3 GK U I D E I N G F O OT &
PANT
Adjustable elastic 1.5in suspender with opposing YKK® buckles for waist-high conversion
Zippered chest pocket with fly patch
Hook and loop patch accepts the Super Fly Patch (Sold Separately)
NEW COLOUR
NEW
Reach-through handwarmer pocket is fleece lined for comfort, and offers secure storage for gear
COLOUR
Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
Built-in low-profile belt loops with 2 in. stretch wading belt included
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
Patented front & back leg seams allow unprecedented mobility and eliminate seams in critical inner leg wear zones.
NEW
Abrasion-resistant built-in Neoprene Gravel Guards with boot hooks RTM ader) TE N DE TI PPET in G3 Guide W (Included
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
FABRIC TECH: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL IN UPPER; 4-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL IN SEAT & LEGS
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT
Click here to watch product presentation FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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#FishItWell
LYWE I G HT BECAUSE FISH AREN’T COMING TO FIND YOU
The Flyweight collection is designed to take you farther. A fully-featured system backed by GORE-TEX PRO Stretch Fabric, an athletic fit focused on lightweight mobility, and an integrated 5.11® HEXGRID® organization system that provides unmatched modularity for the angler looking to truly customize their fishing experience.
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WADERS
Designed for bringing hard-to-reach waters into focus, Flyweight Stockingfoot Waders fuel the advance with a thoughtfully designed fishing accessory system for gear on the go, lightweight yet durable engineering for added stamina, and best-in-class GORE-TEX waterproof-breathability for guaranteed dry performance — day in and day out.
TM F LY WE I G HT STO C K I N G F OOT
Zippered, micro-fleece lined reach-thru hand-warmer pocket for strategic storage and cold-weather reprieve.
Stretch crotch gusset and patented front and back leg seams for best-ever wader mobility.
NEW
New Hex Air Gravel Guards improve moisture management and pack smaller than standard options.
Keep essentials in check with a chest pocket array that includes 5.11® HEXGRID® attachment system with dual-access dump pocket and zippered stash pocket behind
Designed for compatibility with all Flyweight Pods and Accessories
Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
Fit and function innovation includes breathable air mesh suspender attachments, lower top hem, and zippered side gussets - for relaxed or athletic fit options
Abrasion-resistant built-in Neoprene Gravel Guards with boot hooks
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish *
FABRIC TECH: UPPER: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 3-LAYER LOWER: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 4-LAYER GUSSET: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 3-LAYER STRETCH
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT
Click here to watch product presentation *For 5.11® EUROPE HEXGRID• compatible packs, bags and accessories, go to page 81 and 82. 23 FLYFISH - SPRING 2021
WADERS
#FishItWell
Simms’ Freestone® Stockingfoot Wader is your go-to companion from first cast to lasting obsession. Durable, breathable four-layer Toray® QuadraLam™ fabric handles brushy approaches and cold wet weather, while the articulated fit promotes natural mobility both on the trail and in the water. When it comes to small details that make a big difference, the Freestone includes a large fleece-lined, reach-through handwarmer pocket to heat up cold fingers, a secure chest pocket to hold essential tools, and a dedicated fly patch for sidelined flies.
® FRE E STO N E Z I P, STO C K I N G F O OT
& PAN T
Adjustable elastic suspenders with opposing buckles
YKK® AQUASEAL® waterproof center front zipper that offers easy access and quick relief on the river
Reach-through handwarmer pocket is fleece lined for comfort, and offers secure storage for gear
Dual chest pockets with fly patch TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
NEW
RTM TE N DE TI PPET peratly) se d ol (S
Interior zip closure chest pocket
Five belt loops with 38mm nylon waist belt
Articulated patterning and center-leg seam construction
Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
Abrasion-resistant built-in Gravel Guards
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
FABRIC TECH:
4-LAYER TORAY® QUADRALAM™. WATERPROOF / BREATHABLE. > WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT 24
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WADERS
Waders with a durable, breathable 3- and 4-layer build for all-day dry, comfortable performance at a great value. Practice makes pros—and the TributaryTM Stockingfoot Wader is your trusty ally as you gain confidence and master your fishing skills. Built with proven Simms durability, these dry, breathable men’s waders promote natural mobility while you negotiate steep trails and deep rivers. Key features include a large fleecelined, reach-through handwarmer pocket for fishing through cooler days, plus a secure chest pocket.
TM TR I B U TA RY K I D ’ S , W O M E N’ S & M E N’ S Custom Duraflex buckles throughout
Reach-through handwarmer pocket with zippered top stash pocket
Two belt loops with 38 mm nylon waist belt
Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).
Self-fabric gravel guard with gathered elastic bottom hem
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
NEW
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
RTM TE N DE TI PPET peratly) se d ol (S
FABRIC TECH: UPPER: 3-LAYER WATERPROOF BREATHABLE POLYESTER LOWER: 4-LAYER WATERPROOF BREATHABLE POLYESTE
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION > BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS > HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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WADERS
#FishItWell
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
NEW
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
NEW
NEW
TM
Wader) TE NDER TIPPET in G3 Guide Z (Included
TM
Wader) TE NDER TIPPET in G3 Guide Z (Included
TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)
NEW
TM
TM
Wader) TE NDER TIPPET in G3 Guide Z (Included
Wader) TE NDER TIPPET in G3 Guide Z (Included
%(67 2) 6+2: :20(1¶6 :$'(56 '(19(5 &2
WM’S G3Z® WADERS
WM’S FREESTONE® Z WADERS
Cinder
Striker Grey
WM’S FREESTONE® WADERS Striker Grey
WM’S & KID’S TRIBUTARY WADERS Platinum
%(67 2) 6+2: :20(1¶6 :$',1* %2276 '(19(5 &2
WM’S FLYWEIGHT BOOTS - VIBRAM Cinder
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WM’S FLYWEIGHT BOOTS - FELT
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Cinder
WM’S FREESTONE BOOTS - RUBBER Cinder
WM’S FREESTONE BOOTS - FELT Cinder
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WOMEN’S & KIDS
NEW
NEW
%(67 2) 6+2: :20(1¶6 287(5:($5 '(19(5 &2
WM’S G3 GUIDE® JACKET Seafoam
WM’S CHALLENGER JACKET
WM’S WAYPOINTS JACKET
WM’S CHALLENGER FISHING BIB
Hex Flo Camo Admiral, Garnet
Admiral Blue, Garnet
Admiral Blue
NEW
NEW COLOUR
WM’S WEST FORK JACKET
WM’S EXSTREAM BICOMP HOODY
WM’S EXSTREAM JACKET
Raven, Blackberry
Raven, Blackberry
Seafoam, Garnet
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
WM’S MIDCURRENT HOODED JACKET Anvil, Phlox
KID’S WORKING CLASS T-SHIRT Grey Heather, Royal
KID’S BUGSTOPPER HOODY Steel Heather
KID’S SOLAR TECH HOODY
Sterling, Steel Blue, Aruba, Faded Denim
27 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
Unlocking the Puzzle:
What to Wear Under Your Waders?
Today’s the day. You’ve got big plans to spend a long day hiking around in waders, looking for risers, and playing in natures’ playground. You pull out your rod and reel, some flies, maybe a libation or two, and you’re ready to go. You’re about to step into your waders, look down at your blue jeans and think to yourself, “there’s got to be something better than this.” And wouldn’t you know it- there is.
From the coldest days
on the coast to the hottest days swinging for salmon, base layers are essential items to stay comfortable in your waders. That part is obvious. However, choosing the right layer for your particular fishing situation might be less obvious. In the following, we will provide you with some insights on what we think are some of the right clothing options for layering up under waders for various fishing scenarios throughout the year.
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
The Best Materials
Something to keep in mind when layering up before putting on your waders- despite the season- you are likely to sweat to some degree. Whether it’s a long hike in through the snow or baking in the sun on a hot summer day, you get hot in waders. Wearing clothing underneath waders that breathes and wicks moisture away from the skin is key. Look for base layers that contain polyester, which is a tried and true moisture-wicking material. Other materials to consider are: Nylon, Wool and Bamboo.
Neoprene waders
If you by chance have a pair of neoprene waders, what you wear under your waders will be a bit of a different story. Neoprene waders are less breathable because they’re meant to keep you warm in the wintertime. You’ll want to wear moisture-wicking materials that make polypropylene and fleece excellent options for under-wader wear. No matter your waders’ material, all waders have one thing in common: avoid wearing cotton underneath at all costs! Cotton is extremely hydrophilic (i.e. water-loving), meaning that if it gets wet, you’re pretty much out of luck. No one wants to be soggy and damp while fishing, especially in colder temps, so nix the cotton on your next fishing trip.
Bootfoot waders
Unlike stockingfoot waders, bootfoot waders come with the advantage of built-in boots, which means there’s one less piece of gear for you to worry about. While bulkier than stockingfoot waders, the burliness of bootfoot waders makes them perfect for colder days. Bootfoot waders are also ideal for those who plan to do some fishing from the beach, since there’s no way for sand to get through. Whether you choose to go with stockingfoot or bootfoot waders, you’ll want to invest in a quality pair of wading socks. Again, avoid wearing cotton and instead opt for a pair of wool or neoprene socks. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Something to keep in mind when layering up before putting on your waders- despite the season- you are likely to sweat to some degree. Whether it’s a long hike in through the snow or baking in the sun on a hot summer day, you get hot in waders.
Base Layers by Season
Of course, what you wear under your waders will vary slightly depending on the seasons. Here’s a brief guide on what to wear under waders in cold and warm weather.
What to Wear in the Summer?
Depending on where you live, summer temps can range from pleasantly warm to blazing hot. When shopping for summer fly fishing apparel, you’ll want to make sure that your clothing features both moisture-wicking and sun protection materials. When summer hits, it’s smart to invest in an assortment of warm weather fly fishing apparel to wear under waders, including: Lightweight pants/shorts – A good pair of lightweight pants (or shorts, for hotter days) will help you stay cool and dry. Better yet, buy a pair of zip-off pants and you can have both! Jacket – A quality wading jacket—specifically, a rain jacket—is a smart purchase for those days where the forecast looks a little iffy. Fishing shirts – Look for a lightweight fishing shirt with moisture-wicking and SPF features to wear under your waders. Hat – Whether it’s a sun hat or a trucker hat, having an assortment of hats in your closet will provide you with lasting sun protection. To keep the bugs at bay, opt for a special mosquito net hat. Sungaiter – Look for a breathable sungaiter with built-in SPF to fight off sunburn and pesky bugs. Shoes and sandals – Warmer temps welcome almost bare feet. A good pair of wading sandals or shoes can be worn both in the water and from the shore or boat.
Best Socks for Waders
Let’s start at the bottom- the socks. Simms offers a whole line of merino wool socks for any season and any scenario. It is always a good idea to wear socks that go above your ankle to prevent rubbing against the neoprene in the booties of your waders. Longer socks also give you the option to tuck your leg layers in to prevent bunching and cold spots where the skin is directly against the waders. For the warmer summer months, the Merino Lightweight Hiker Sock is going to be your best friend. In the cooler months when air temps are more variable and the water temps are on the chillier side- the Merino Midweight Hiker Socks are going to be the perfect fit. For any cold-weather fishing or water that’s constantly below 5 degrees Celsius, we recommend the Merino Thermal OTC (On the Calf) Socks. You have to be careful about layering socks when the weather gets cold- constricting blood flow to your feet in cold weather is only going to make you get colder faster.
Merino Lightweight Hiker Sock
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Merino Midweight Hiker Sock
Merino Thermal OTC Sock
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
For the remainder of the year, you are going to want to focus more around the base layers and thermals we have on offer. Even on hotter days when the water is on the colder side, you will always be more comfortable with some level of insulation. The Men’s Lightweight and Midweight Core Bottoms as well as the Men’s Fleece Midlayer Bottoms are the perfect options for the intermittent weather and water conditions. On the women’s side of things, the Women’s Lightweight Core Bottom and the Women’s Fleece Midlayer Bottom‘s apply to the same scenarios. The fleece midlayers are on the warmer end of the spectrum, so those are best served in the early spring and fall temps.
Summer Leg Layers
During the warmer summer months, you can usually get away with a pair of light pants under the waders rather than a core bottom. Since wool is a little more insulating, focus on the quickdry pants like the Superlight Pants or the Tumunu Board Pants. For the lady anglers out there, the Bugstopper Leggings and the Mataura Pant are the perfect options for this time of year. This way you will still have a barrier between your legs and the waders to draw a bit of moisture away from the skin, but won’t insulate heat towards your legs.
Summer Leg Layers
Superlight Pants
Tumunu Board Pants
Women’s Bugstopper Leggings
Women’s Mataura Pants
Spring and Fall Leg Layers
Women’s Midlayer Fleece Bottom
Women’s Lightweight Core Bottom
Spring and Fall Leg Layers
Lightweight Core Bottom
Midweight Core Bottom
Fleece Midlayer Bottom
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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What to Wear in Winter?
When it comes to winter fly fishing, there are three things you’ll want to keep in mind: layers, layers, layers. It’s better to be over prepared and shed layers you don’t need than to be left out in the cold. There’s an abundance of women’s and men’s base layers for you to choose from, but some basic pieces to include in your cold weather fishing outfit include: Wading jacket – Look for a hooded, insulated jacket to keep you warm and dry. Fleece sweater – A half-zip fleece sweater is the perfect midlayer for cold weather and can be worn on its own on milder winter days. Long johns/leggings – A quality pair of long underwear or leggings is a must for winter fly fishing. They can be worn under pants for added warmth, or worn alone under your waders on early spring days. Insulated pants – Perfect for those exceptionally cold days, a solid pair of insulated pants will provide you with unparalleled warmth all day long. Neckgaiter – A neckgaiter not only protects your face from the wind, sun, and cold, but it also adds extra warmth around your neck. Hat – Invest in a quality beanie to keep you as warm as possible. Gloves or mittens – Cold hands or fingers are a surefire way to cut your fishing trip short. Invest in a quality pair of gloves or mittens to keep the cold at bay. Boots and socks – Make sure your wading boots fit snugly to keep your feet dry, and wear a pair of high-quality merino wool wading socks underneath for maximum warmth.
Combining a few layers together like Midweight Core or the Fleece Midlayers under one of the heavier Fjords or the Midstream Insulated pants will give you optimal warmth without adding too much bulk under the waders.
Being Prepared
It often takes a bit of time coming up for the perfect layering formula for each fishing scenario, so mix it up until you find what you are most comfortable in. Nothing is worse than trying to take your waders off to adjust your leg layers during the middle of a freezing cold day, so do your best to plan accordingly. No matter the season or weather, it’s essential that you dress properly for fly fishing. Not only will it make for a more enjoyable experience overall, but keeping the elements at bay is crucial for your health and safety out in the wild. The same priinciples apply to the upper body as the lower body; apply the right layers.
Winter Leg Layers
If you are anticipating spending the day in freezing air temps and frigid water, finding bottoms that have multiple layers is going to help with trapping heat close to the body. This is the point where you should start looking towards the Men’s Exstream Core Bottom, Fjord Pants, Fleece Midlayer Bib or even the Midstream Insulated Pants, as well as the Women’s Coldweather Pants. The exstream core bottoms are going to suit you well for that late fall/early winter situation where you need insulation, but also might be moving around quite a bit from spot to spot. The Fjords and the Insulated pants are for those extreme conditions where you know it’s going to be cold the whole time. Consider combining layers if you are going to be spending long days wading rather than hiking. For anyone that has spent a day swinging for winter steelhead knows that the heat slowly gets sucked away from your legs the longer you spend standing in 2 degrees Celsius water.
Winter Leg Layers
Women’s Midstream Insulated Pant 32
ExStream Core Bottom
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Midstream Insulated Pant
Fjord Pants
Fleece Midlayer Bib
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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For the angler not afraid to hoof it a ways to the perfect fishing hole—and for anyone looking for firmer purchase on the riverbed—men’s wading boots from SIMMS are a must-have. Ideal as fly fishing boots, they’re offered in both felt- and rubber-soled versions and are compatible with studs for ultimate traction. Rubber is preferred when worried about the spread of invasive aquatic species; especially in national parks where felt can’t be used. Simms Right Angle® Footbed technology allows you to to fish longer and fish all day without foot fatigue. The bio-mechanically correct arch support aligns the foot into a correct neutral position, providing superior comfort and support. In addition, a structured heel cup provides increased ankle support and aids in the body’s ability for natural shock absorption. Each shoe and flip with Simms Right Angle® Footbed technology will keep your feet supported for a rigorous day on the water. Inspired by free climbing rubber, Vibram Idrogrip is ideal on wet surfaces and improves grip on slippery terrain. The Boa® Lacing System provides custom-comfort with smooth, even closure and no pressure points. Featuring a wire lace made of 49 strands of aircraft-grade stainless wire cable and bombproof nylon reel guides that are designed to take all of the abuse that you can throw at them.
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT www.flyfisheurope.com
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Vibram® invests heavily in research and development of products never overlooking even the most minute detail. Vibram Megagrip offers the ideal combination of grip and durability for maximum surface adaptability. The RiverTreadTM platform is designed for the demanding angler looking for the best wading footwear on the market. RiverTreadTM features Simms’ latest engineered components to maximize comfort, performance, and slip-resistance. Molded 3D footbed with arch support and ball flex. Aligns foot for all-day comfort and optimizes biomechanics.
WADING BOOTS FOR THE ULTIMATE IN TRACTION AND COMFORT
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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WADERS
#FishItWell
The G4 Pro® wading boot was engineered from the ground up to be the highest performing wading boot ever built. The perfect combination of durability and agility, the G4 Pro will provide season after season of comfortable, sure-footed wading. Simms’ guide-quality G4 Pro wading boot provides the highest standard of fit, performance, and durability.
® G4 P R O F E LT & VI B R AM Vacuum-molded, stitchless TPU overlays provide sleet but burly lightweight abrasion resistance
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
%(67 2) 6+2: 0(1¶6 :$',1* %2276 '(19(5 &2
Threaded, non-corrosive receptacles for easy insertion and removal of cleats
Low profile lace loops to reduce line-catch
PU overlays for added durability
FABRIC TECH: OUTSOLE- 12MM FELT WITH VIBRAM® IDROGRIP RUBBER PERIMETER ; UPPER- HIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT MESH
Molded protective toe cap
A low-profile lacing system with non-corrosive hardware minimizes line catch and holds the foot securely and comfortably.
Co-molded into the custom-designed wading-specific Vibram Idrogrip outsole are 10 non-corrosive threaded receptacles for rock-solid cleat retention and modularity. (G4 Pro Alumbite and Hardbite cleats sold separately).
With a roomy toe box, a form-fitted secure heel pocket and 100% closedcell molded foam throughout, the G4 Pro boot provides all-day comfort and stability.
Molded Vibram® rubber anchors for G4 Pro star cleats (sold separately!)
G4 PRO HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
FABRIC TECH: OUTSOLE- VIBRAM® IDROGRIP RUBBER; UPPER- HIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT MESH 36
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
G4 PRO ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
Click here to watch product presentation
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WADING BOOTS
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
G3 GUIDETM BOOT
G3 GUIDETM BOOT
VIBRAM SOLE
FELT SOLE
Waterproof nubuck leather upper // High abrasion textile with full scratch rubber rand // Molded external TPU heel counter & heel clip // Dual-density midsole for shock absorption // ESS plates for improved cleat retention
Waterproof nubuck leather upper // High abrasion textile with full scratch rubber rand // Molded external TPU heel counter & heel clip // Dual-density midsole for shock absorption // ESS plates for improved cleat retention // 12 mm felt sole for traction
NEW
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
FLYWEIGHT® BOOT VIBRAM SOLE
FLYWEIGHT® BOOT FELT SOLE
Low-profile, lightweight synthetic boot upper // Welded TPU film in high abrasion zones for durability // Speed lace hooks & lacetoe closure // High cushion dual-density EVA midsole for comfort // Stud-compatible 4.5 mm Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole
Low profile, lightweight synthetic boot upper // Welded TPU film in high-abrasion zones for durability // Speed lace hooks & lace-to-toe closure // High cushion, dual density EVA midsole for comfort // Felt stud compatible // Scratch rubber toe cap // 12 mm felt sole for traction
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
37
WADERS
#FishItWell
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM
HEADWATERS® BOA
HEADWATERS® BOA
BOOT - VIBRAM SOLE
BOOT - FELT SOLE
Boa® lacing system // Waterproof nubuck leather // Full scratch rubber rand // Dual-density midsole for shock absorption // ESS plates for improved cleat retention & proprioception
Boa® lacing system // Waterproof nubuck leather // Full scratch rubber rand // Dual-density midsole for shock absorption // 12 mm felt sole for traction
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM
FREESTONE® BOOT
FREESTONE® BOOT
RUBBER SOLE
FELT SOLE
Waterproof synthetic leather & scratch rubber upper // Partial neoprene lining // Dual-density EVA midsole for shock absorption // Synthetic uppers take the abuse of brush, rock, and water in stride // Cushioned midsole provides all-day cushioning and warmth
Waterproof synthetic leather & scratch rubber upper // Partial neoprene lining // Synthetic uppers take the abuse of brush, rock, and water in stride // Cushioned midsole provides all-day cushioning and warmth
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
NEW
NEW
ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT
HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM
TRIBUTARY BOOT RUBBER SOLE
TRIBUTARY BOOT FELT SOLE
Rugged synthetic leather and mesh with scratch rubber overlays in high abuse areas // Bomber, corrosion-resistant lacing hardware // Fully-gusseted tongue helps prevent debris from getting inside
Bomber, corrosion-resistant lacing hardware // Fully-gusseted tongue helps prevent debris from getting inside // Full neoprene lining for durability and ease of on and off // 12mm Synthetic Felt Outsole
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// WADING BOOTS
FLATS SNEAKERS RUBBER SOLE
ZIPIT II FLATS BOOTIE RUBBER SOLE
Mid-cut, lace-toe, & synthetic upper // Durable, saltwater-friendly materials // Nonabsorbing foam lining with synthetic face // Gum rubber outsole for traction when wet // Removable Right Angle® footbed for a secure & comfortable underfoot ride
Easy on-off saltwater wet wading shoe with gusseted zipper opening // Perforated neoprene upper with vulcanized rubber overlays for additional durability // Durable vulcanized rubber outsole molded EVA sock liner
G4 PRO ALUMIBITE™ CLEAT
G4 PRO HARDBITE™ CLEAT
Designed to work with G4 Vibram Outsole // Threaded machine screws included // Soft, extruded aluminum conforms to micro-surfaces of rocks
Designed to work with G4 Vibram Outsole // Threaded machine screws included // Hand-applied carbide flakes for added traction and durability
ALUMIBITE™ CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
The cleats are soft enough to conform to what’s under your foot as you change locations // With solid footing, your cast is better and you’re free to explore the river.
Works directly with Vibram® rubber soles for traction you can trust on varied river bottoms and mossy rocks // Durable carbide chips help steady your stance
HARDBITE™ STUDS
HARDBITE™ STUDS FELT
These studs offer traction you can trust, so you can move and explore the river at will.
Replaceable boot studs for solid footing on variable river bottoms in felt wading boots.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
39
Some of the best fishing comes on the lousiest days: a truth we’re guessing most of you have learned firsthand. With SIMMS rain gear and fishing jackets, you’ll be suited up against whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at you while out casting, whether on freshwater or brine. Many of our SIMMS rain jackets, vests, bibs, and rain pants feature GORE-TEX designs for the maximum in waterproofing and breathability while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Who cares what the skies are doing? The ultimate in warmth-to-weight available in a synthetic is coupled with incredible packability and softness that mimics goose down, all with excellent water-repellency for wet-weather protection.
All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.
Toray s a heavy-duty engineered fabric with a microporous waterproof coating that utilizes 2-layer coated fabric, a single membrane layer and a tricot backer to offer improved durability.
Polartec® Thermal Pro® fabric provides superior benefits over traditional fleece - Warmth without weight, highly breathable, fast drying, durable, easy care.
GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL outerwear is waterproof, exceptionally lightweight and offers the ultimate in breathability, durability and extended comfort. Constructed with a woven backer, GORE-TEX® Pro Shell garments slide easily over other layers and offer exceptional tear strength and internal abrasion-resistance.
By combining a tightly woven face fabric with a microporous coating, Pertex® Quantum Pro delivers a very high level of water resistance whilst remaining lightweight, soft and breathable.The increased weather resistance and durable construction means these fabrics are ideal for use in cold or damp environments where keeping warm and dry is crucial.
River Camo offers you an edge at beating detection, so you can get one step closer to the fish and that perfect casting position. In collaboration with Veil Camo, Simms® developed River Camo—a cutting edge, proprietary and mathematically driven camouflage pattern for fish—by breaking up shapes.
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT www.flyfisheurope.com
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
OUTERWEAR COME RAIN COME SHINE FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
41
WADERS
#FishItWell
Cut from advanced GORE-TEX 3-layer fabrics and kitted with ingenious fishing details throughout, this guide-trusted jacket survives and thrives in the harshest conditions. The Simms G4 Pro® is the most rugged, durable and weather-sealed jacket on the market, infused with the latest technology and design features that will enhance your dexterity, comfort and performance on the water, day-after-day, week-after-week, monthafter-month.
G 4 P RJAC OK® ET
3-point adjustable storm hood with structured visor Microfleece-lined collar provides added protection from the elements Flip out vertical loop fly patch Water-resistant sleeve pocket
Two large chest pockets with tethered chamois Handwarmer pockets with laser-cut drainage
%(67 2) 6+2: 0(1¶6 287(5:($5 '(19(5 &2
2 zippered chest pockets Stretch Shingled, no-catch watertight cuff High-vis center hood panel
Click here to watch product presentation
FABRIC TECH:
UPPER SLEEVES SHOULDERS AND HOOD - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL - 80D 100% NYLON W/ C6 DWR / 100% Four streamlined, built-in front pockets reduce bulk and allow rainfall to sheet off wihout collecting on the fabric.
42
Spacious rear game pockets can be accessed through the front handwarmer pockets. Carry more, stay out longer.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
3-point adjustable hood with high-vis center hood panel and the longest rear hem-to-collar length of any of our wading jackets, extends protection.
NYLON TRICOT BACKER; BODY AND UNDER SLEEVES - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL - 70D 100% NYLON W/C6 DWR / 100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// OUTERWEAR
Your problems may all fade away the second your line hits the water, but the storm around you will rage on. Protect yourself like a pro from the elements with Simms G3 Guide™ Tactical Wading Jacket. 9 pockets: 4 zippered chest pockets, 2 zippered hand pockets, 1 zippered sleeve pocket, 1 internal zippered pocket, 1 internal stretch mesh pocket.
G 3 G U I D E TACTI CAL JAC K ET
NEW
COLOURS
4-point adjustable storm hood with high collar tuckaway storm hood
Hook and loop front patch to store drying flies and center back D-ring to attach landing net
2 integrated retractors, 1 fly patch, 1 net Dring
Hem closure secures with stretch drawcord to pair up perfectly with waders
Watertight Shingle Cuffs provide a waterproof seal that keeps you dry
Shadow Green, Riparian Camo
FABRIC TECH: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX®, 100% NYLON FACE Stash every piece of tackle in your arsenal, and warm your hands while you are at it, in 9 convenient pockets, including 2 micro-fleece lined hand pockets.
Durable, lightweight 3-layer GORE-TEX® with water-tight cuffs provide a waterproof seal that keeps you dry.
The packable storm hood adjusts to fight the fiercest downpour.
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WADERS
#FishItWell
Your dependable, wet-weather workhorse, GORE-TEX Guide Classic Jacket provides relentless rain protection, ample storage for fishing gear and features a timeless waist-length hemline for compatibility with waders and deep wading endeavors.
TM G U I D E C LAS S I C JAC K ET
NEW
Single point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain
Hook and loop front patch to store drying flies and center back D-ring to attach landing net
Two large chest pockets designed to carry fly boxes and an interior zippered chest pocket for essentials
Two slash hand warmer pockets are placed high behind chest pockets and backed with brush tricot for deep wading warmth
Waist-high hemline secures with stretch drawcord to pair up perfectly with waders
Carbon
Single point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain.
44
Waist-high hemline secures with stretch drawcord to pair up perfectly with waders.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Adjustable and snugly fitting sleeve cuff effectively prevents water from seeping in.
FABRIC TECH: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX - 70D 100% NYLON WITH DWR/100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// OUTERWEAR
This tournament performance mainstay now offers greater durability with increased denier face fabric, while maintaining a lightweight feel with a new modern, sleek look. The ProDry Jacket and Bib features leading-edge GORETEX® Pro durable waterproof breathable 3L fabric keeps you exceedingly dry in any weather while on the water.
TM P R O D RY JAC K ET
& BIB
NEW
Hood built with high speeds and driving rain in mind, features three-point adjustability, wind and water pass through drain holes at base of back collar, bonded brim with rain-gasket liner and high-collar extreme weather protection. Also neatly tucks away in collar when not in use
Exposed center-front zipper backed with waterproof storm flap Water-tight exposed dual chest pockets and interior zippered stretch-woven pocket for essentials
Full length 2-way center-front zip combined with adjustable suspenders and stretch back panel for all-day comfort
Articulated leg panels with Oxford Nylon abrasion fighting fabric in knee and bottom hem for durability
Cinchable hem line with kill switch D-ring for use when running to the honey hole
Click here to watch product presentation
Jacket: Carbon, Auburn Red, Admiral Blue // Bib: Black, Carbon
FABRIC TECH: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL; 155GSM 80D 100% NYLON 6.6 PLAIN WEAVE W/ 100% NYLON 6.6 TRICOT BACKER AND DWR
Single point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain.
Articulated sleeves with safety reflective hits and shingled, no-catch watertight cuff.
Thigh-high 2-way side zipper opening for easy on/off while wearing boots.
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
45
WADERS
#FishItWell
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
COLOUR
Auburn Red, Black
Black
CHALLENGER INSULATED JACKET
CHALLENGER INSULATED BIB
High-loft insulation in body & sleeves // Water-resistant center front zipper with storm flap // 3-point adjustable storm hood // 2 zippered hand-warming pockets, chest pocket, internal zippered pocket // Dual draw-cord adjustable bottom hem
High-loft insulation in body & legs // Water-resistant center front zipper with storm flap // Hand-warming pockets & thigh pocket with plier sheath // Built-in reinforced removable knee pads
FABRIC TECH: 100% nylon 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR; Lining: 74 gsm 50D 100% polyester w/ DWR; Insulation: Primaloft® Rise 120g in body / 100g in sleeves
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% nylon 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR; Lining: 74gsm 50D 100% polyester w/ DWR; Insulation: Primaloft® Rise 100g in legs and 80g in upper body.; Overlays: knee and cuffs: High abrasion resistant 275gsm 100% nylon 6.6 2-ply oxford weave
NEW
COLOUR
Flame, Hex Camo Carbon, Hex Flo Camo Timber, Hex Flo Camo Grey Blue, Black
Black, Steel, Hex Flo Camo Timber
CHALLENGER JACKET
CHALLENGER BIB
3-point adjustable storm hood // Zippered chest pocket with interior sunglasses chamois // Kill switch attachment at bottom hem // Reflective logos for increased visibility on and off the water
Two chest handwarmer pockets // Internal waist adjustment inside handwarmer pockets // Kill-switch attachment at beltloop // Drop-in plier pocket with drain // Zippered cuffs for easy on and off
FABRIC TECH: Body fabric- 100% nylon, 2-layer Toray® Delfy fabric technology shell, 75D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR; Lining50D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR
FABRIC TECH: Body: 2-layer Toray® shell 75D 100% polyester w/ C6 DWR; Bottom hem abrasion zone- Toray Big Ox 840D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// OUTERWEAR
NEW
NEW
COLOUR
Riparian Camo, Black
Dark Stone
BULKLEY INSULATED JACKET
FLYWEIGHT SHELL JACKET
High-loft insulation in body & sleeves // 3-point adjustable Storm Hood // 2 fly box-compatible pockets; 2 zippered, micro-fleece lined hand-warming pockets // GORE-TEX fabric inside of hem for deep wading // Shingled cuff construction
Zippered chest pocket features self stowing pouch with compatible quick clips to attach to Simms’ Flyweight Waders, packs and accessories. // Two zippered hand pockets // Simple cuff designed with partial stretch for easy on and off // Adjustable stretch drawcord in hem for secure fit
FABRIC TECH: 2-layer GORE-TEX® shell; PrimaLoft® Silver Insulation; 100% polyester lining
FABRIC TECH: GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS 100% nylon 2-layer with DWR
NEW
Rich Blue, Black
FLYWEIGHT ACCESS JACKET Recycled micro-ripstop polyester main body fabric, combined with Polartec® Power Grid™ providing an incredible warmth to weight ratio and freedom of movement // Zippered stretch mesh chest pocket // Two zippered hand pockets // Stretch cuff for easy on and off FABRIC TECH: Main Body: 100% recycled polyester rip-stop, 61 gsm with PFC-Free DWR
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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WADERS
#FishItWell
NEW
Black-Slate, Sterling, Pacific
Slate
FASTCAST WINDSHELL
WAYPOINTS RAIN JACKET & PANTS
Elastic gathering at hood opening, hem, and cuffs to seal out elements // Handwarmer pockets // Under-arm ventilation // Hand-pocket packability
Adjustable hood // Single flapped chest pocket // 2 zippered handwarmer pockets with drainage // Hand-pocket packability
FABRIC TECH: Body fabric- 30D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR
NEW
FABRIC TECH: Body fabric- 2.5-layer Toray® 50D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR
NEW
COLOUR
COLOUR
Cyprus, Raven
Cyprus, Raven
WEST FORK VEST
WEST FORK JACKET
Stand-up collar blocks wind and locks in warmth // Zippered chest and handwarmer pockets
3-point adjustable storm hood // Shingled cuff to keep elements out // Zippered chest & hand pocket // Adjustable hem
FABRIC TECH: Upper: Pertex Quantum Pro with PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core Technology Gold insulation Lower: Toray® stitchless quilting filled with PrimaLoft Silver Insulation with Cross Core Technology blowable insulation
FABRIC TECH: Upper: Pertex Quantum Pro with PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core Technology Gold insulation Lower: Toray® stitchless quilting filled with PrimaLoft Silver Insulation with Cross Core Technology blowable insulation
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// OUTERWEAR
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
Dark Bronze, Admiral Blue
EXSTREAM BICOMP HOODY
Dark Bronze, Admiral Blue, Black
KARUISHI™
Ultra-durable Toray Karuishi stretch-fleece fabric in lower // Zippered chest pocket // Water shedding cuff with thumb loops // Gusseted arm panel for range of motion // Adjustable hem FABRIC TECH: Shell, Upper: Toray® 100% nylon Pre-Quilted 20d down tube with C6 DWR;Shell, Lower: Toray® Karuishi® 100% polyester, C6 DWR anti-microbial 1-sided fleece;Lining: 100% polyester;Insulation: PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation with Cross Core Technology
EXSTREAM HOODED JACKET
KARUISHI™
Fully insulated hood with elastic binding to lock out the elements // Stretch woven zippered chest pocket // Zippered handwarmer pockets. Right pocket is self-stowing with dual sliders for easy reversible storage // Low-profile stretch elastic-bound cuff FABRIC TECH: Toray 100% nylon pre-quilted 20D down tube w/ DWR; Insulation: PrimaLoft® Silver Thermoplume w/Cross Core™ technology - 120g fill rate (body and hood), 100g fill rate (sleeves)
Black
Hex Flo Camo Carbon, Anvil
MIDSTREAM INSULATED PANT
KATAFRONT HOODY
The Midstream Insulated Pant features PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation for the highest warmth-to-weight ratio available with synthetic insulation. The result is a thin profile and lightweight feel and unmatched warmth for its volume
Water-shedding fabrics // Hydrophobic cuffs // Adjustable hood // 1 zippered, thermo-laminated chest pocket // 2 zippered hand-warming pockets
FABRIC TECH: Face: Pertex® Microlight 30D 100% nylon ripstop; Insulation: PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation 60 g in body, 40 g in sleeves; Liner: 30D 100% polyester, Pertex® Microlight
FABRIC TECH: Main body: 92% polyester/8% spandex; Cuff: 100% polyester; Pocket: 85% nylon/15% spandex dobby
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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The secret to angler happiness on those fitful or downright ferocious weather days out on the fishing grounds? Layering, of course. And you can’t beat SIMMS for the very best in fishing base layers and mid-layers: just the thing to wear under our elite shells (or as standalone duds, depending on conditions). From moisture-wicking tops and bottoms to fleece pullovers, our fishing thermals ensure you can withstand the kind of back-and-forth temperature swings Mother Nature tends to serve up on more than a few casting days—giving you that much more opportunity to reel or pull in a beauty out of those promising depths. Layer up in style with SIMMS!
KARUISHI™
Maintains high volume with perfect 2-layer knitting structure. Brushed fabric delivers high heat insulation. Anti-pilling property from using filaments. High abrasion resistance from special knitting techniques. Brushed yarn only connected to back yarn creates high volume and uncanny lightness. This technique results in greater abrasion resistance than conventional spun or other brushed filament materials. High volume with perfect 2-layer structure.
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT www.flyfisheurope.com
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing. Avra™ keeps you comfortable with superior wicking speed and exceptional dry times - up to 50% faster than fabrics of similar weight, construction and composition. Due to their size and unique shape, Avra fibers are significantly more flexible than standard polyester. This creates fabrics with a distinctly silky feel that keeps you drier and more comfortable than ever before.
LAYERING HEAD-TO-TOE WARMTH FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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WADERS
#FishItWell
Raven
Raven
FJORD PANT
EXSTREAM CORE TOP & BOTTOM
Compression-resistant double-layer fleece // Pull-cord waist adjustment // Stretch-woven cuff & stirrups // Flatlock seam construction seam construction // Double-layer 300 G fleece
Top: Ergonomic hood & integrated neck gaiter design // Anti-fog mesh built into gaiter // Articulated sleeves with thumbholes // Flatlock seam construction seam construction Bottom: Abrasion-resistant & anti-pill // Wicking ankle cuffs integrate with waders // Flatlock seam construction seam construction
FABRIC TECH: Waist/Cuff/Stirrup: 50% nylon 6/43% polyester/7% spandex; Body: 100% polyester
KARUISHI™
FABRIC TECH: Body: 2-layer Toray® Karuishi®
Rich Blue, Carbon
Rich Blue, Raven
MIDWEIGHT CORE QUARTER ZIP & BOTTOM
LIGHTWEIGHT CORE TOP & BOTTOM
Top: Made with anti-odor & moisture-wicking fabric with brushed interior for warmth // Quarter-zip design with tall collar for additional warmth // Flatlock seams for comfort Botttom: Jacquard elastic stretch waistband // Elastic cuff so your bottoms stay in place // Flatlock seams for comfort
Made with anti-odor & moisture-wicking fabrics // Raglan sleeve design for optimal fit // Drop hem design for extra coverage // Flatlock seams for comfort
FABRIC TECH: 100% polyester micro brushed fleece back
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
FABRIC TECH: 100% polyester
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// LAYERING
Raven
Raven, Tumbleweed
FLEECE MIDLAYER BIB
FLEECE MIDLAYER TOP & BOTTOM
Abrasion & odor-resistant fabric // Grid-fleece interior // Stretch-woven stirrups // Center front, 2-way zipper // YKK® corrosion-resistant zipper // Thermo-laminated zippered chest pocket
Top: Abrasion & odor-resistant fabric // Grid-fleece interior // Zippered chest pocket // Patterning promotes ease of movement Bottom: Zip-fly with integrated belt make them easy to wear on their own // Hand-warming pockets // Tapered lower leg for wader integration
FABRIC TECH: 95% polyester/5% spandex; Pocket: 85% nylon/15% spandex
FABRIC TECH: Body: 95% polyester/5% spandex
NEW
NEW
Slamdown Meridian, Rooster Fest Khaki
Sterling, Carbon
BOXER BRIEF
COOLING BOXER BRIEF
Constructed with breathable Avra™ fabric that starts cool and keeps you cool // Fly pouch and seat area designed with minimal seams for chafe-free comfort and support // 14cm inseam
Constructed with breathable Avra™ fabric that starts cool and keeps you cool // Fly pouch and seat area designed with minimal seams for chafe-free comfort and support // 14cm inseam
FABRIC TECH: 89% Avra® polyester, 11% elastane, 150 gsm with moisture management and anti-microbial treatment
FABRIC TECH: 89% Avra® polyester, 11% elastane, 150 gsm with moisture management and anti-microbial treatment
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
53
Long-sleeve to short-sleeve, button-up to half-zip, hoodie to fleece sweater, you’ll find a fantastic range of fishing shirts for men here in the SIMMS inventory. Every one of these shirts has been designed for the needs of the angler: protection against the elements, all-day comfort, and the kind of functional-but-stylish design that looks just as good during post-fishing hangouts as it does on the water. Our men’s fishing shirts come in a wide range of styles, so there’s something for every angler. Our guide-caliber fishing bottoms encompass the full spectrum from wading shorts to rain pants and include such all-out winners as insect-repellent leggings and wind- and water-resistant overalls: the kind of tough but easy-wearing apparel whose utility extends beyond angling to just about any outdoor pursuit. With fishing-ready features like cuffs that snap tighter designed for wet wading. Plus, we happen to think these SIMMS fishing pants and shorts are pretty stylin’ as well.
Built to last, Cordura fabric has proven performance in the world’s toughest environments. Made with high tenacity air jet textured nylon 6,6 filament yarns for strength and durability.
Scotchgard™ Protector Stain Release helps most stains lift out in the wash, making clothes easier to care for and last longer. The addition of Scotchgard™ does not reduce the softness of the fabric or affect the breathability.
Sportswear using the COR3™ Technology fabric finish have a UPF rating of 30 or greater, properties to minimize odor and outstanding wicking performance for important moisture management.
Insect Shield® repellent apparel provides long-lasting, effective and convenient personal insect protection. The active ingredient in Insect Shield® is so tightly bonded to the fabric fibers that it retains effective repellency throughout the lifetime of the product. This is well beyond the lifecycle of most other products on the market which typically last only a number of washes.
FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT www.flyfisheurope.com
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
Avra™ keeps you comfortable with superior wicking speed and exceptional dry times - up to 50% faster than fabrics of similar weight, construction and composition. Due to their size and unique shape, Avra fibers are significantly more flexible than standard polyester. This creates fabrics with a distinctly silky feel that keeps you drier and more comfortable than ever before. River Camo offers you an edge at beating detection, so you can get one step closer to the fish and that perfect casting position. In collaboration with Veil Camo, Simms® developed River Camo—a cutting edge, proprietary and mathematically driven camouflage pattern for fish—by breaking up shapes. All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.
Polygiene® is a natural and permanent odor-control fabric treatment that stops the growth of odor-causing bacteria, allowing you to wear more, and wash less. Based on natural silver chloride made from 100% recycled silver.
SPORTSWEAR BORN OF RIGOROUS FIELD-TESTING FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
55
WADERS
#FishItWell
NEW
NEW
COLOUR
COLOURS
50
ROGUE HOODY
COLDWEATHER HOODY
Hex Flo Camo Carbon, Hex Flo Camo Timber, Raven
Rusty Red Buffalo Plaid, Dark Bronze Buffalo Plaid, Slate Buffalo Plaid
NEW
COLOURS
50
COLDWEATHER SHIRT
COLDWEATHER PANT
Cyprus Plaid, Auburn Red Buffalo Plaid, Dark Bronze Plaid, Slate Buffalo Plaid, Rich Admiral Blue Plaid
Dark Stone
NEW
COLOURS
50
GALLATIN FLANNEL SHIRT
Carbon Stripe, Dark Bronze Stripe, Auburn Red Stripe, Rich Blue Stripe
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
50
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// SPORTSWEAR
NEW
NEW
50
50
RIVERSHED QUARTER-ZIP
RIVERSHED FULL-ZIP
Carbon, Dark Bronze, Dark Moon
Carbon, Dark Moon
NEW
NEW
50
50
CHALLENGER HOODY - FULL ZIP
CHALLENGER HOODY
Black, Hex Flo Camo Carbon, Hex Flo Camo Grey Blue
CHALLENGER SWEAT PANTS
Black Heather, Steel Heather, Admiral Blue Heather
NEW
NEW
50
Black Heather
NEW
NEW
COLOUR
COLOUR
50
BUGSTOPPER® HOODY Steel Heather, Foliage
50
BUGSTOPPER SOLARFLEX HOODY Steel Blue, Riparian Camo
50
BUGSTOPPER INTRUDER BICOMP Storm, Tan
50
BUGSTOPPER® PANTS Steel
57 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
WADERS
#FishItWell
Accessory
ESSENTIALS
From the blazing heat of the summer estuary to the bone-chilling damp of a fall river, make sure you’ve got the duds up for the elements and perfectly designed for your on-the-go angling needs with the SIMMS inventory.
GUIDE PLIER - ANVIL, SIMMS ORANGE
Peerless, US-made pliers powered by innovative, guide-driven tech. Simms’ superior Guide Pliers put rusty, decrepit needle-nosers on notice. Corrosion resistant, 17‐4 stainless steel jaws. 6061‐T6, type II anodized aluminum arms.
PRO NIPPER - PACIFIC, SIMMS ORANGE
Made in the USA with a magnetic spring and magnetic fly threader, this durable guide-level nipper brings together multiple angling tools for flawless activations. Durable anodized aluminum handles with stainless steel jaw.
NEW
58
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
GUIDE NIPPER - TITANIUM, SIMMS ORANGE
USA made machined-aluminum nipper with razor-sharp stainless steel jaws. Details include 6061-T6 machined aluminum arms and riveted, stainless-steel cutters.
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// SPORTSWEAR
NEW
NEW
NEW
30
30
SUPERLIGHT ZIP-OFF PANTS
30
SUPERLIGHT PANTS
Cork
SUPERLIGHT SHORTS
Sterling, Cork
Sterling, Cork
NEW
COLOUR
30
30
INTRUDER® BICOMP SHIRT
DOUBLE HAUL SHIRT
Sterling, Slate, Tan, Faded Denim
Riparian Camo, Dark Moon, Rock Ridge, Faded Denim
NEW
COLOUR
NEW
COLOUR
50
30
30
GUIDE SHIRT
Olive, Dark Khaki
GUIDE PANTS Khaki, Slate
GUIDE SHORTS Khaki
59 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
WADERS
#FishItWell
NEW
COLOUR
%(67 2) 6+2: 0(1¶6 *(1(5$/ $33$5(/ '(19(5 &2
50 50
SOLARFLEX® ULTRACOOL ARMOR
SOLARFLEX® HOODY - SOLIDS
Sterling, Cloud Camo Grey, Cloud Camo Blue
White, Storm Heather, Key Lime, Pacific Heather
NEW
NEW
COLOUR
COLOUR
50
50
SOLARFLEX® CREWNECK - PRINT
SOLARFLEX® HOODY - PRINT
Riparian Camo, Cloud Camo Grey
Riparian Camo, Cloud Camo Grey
NEW
COLOURS
50
SOLARFLEX® CREWNECK - SOLIDS
Meridian Heather, Laguna, Sterling, white
60
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// SPORTSWEAR
NEW
COLOUR
50
CHALLENGER SOLAR TECH JERSEY
Hex Flo Camo Steel, Hex Flo Camo Carbon,Hex Flo Camo Timber
NEW
COLOURS
30
SOLAR TECH TEE - SIMMS LOGO
Bass Logo Sterling, Simms Troutscape Sterling, Trout Logo White, Trout Logo Steel Blue,
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
COLOURS
30
SOLAR TECH TEE - FRESHWATER
Brown Trout Sterling, Rainbow Trout White, Musky Face Steel Blue
30
SOLAR TECH TEE - SALTWATER
Redfish Sterling, Striper Eat Sterling, Tarpon Turn Steel Blue, Tuna Steel Blue
61 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
WADERS
#FishItWell
WORN ON BOAT RAMPS. NOT RUNWAYS.
THE DOCKWEAR COLLECTION // There’s no time like time on the water. Be it the river, the lake or the ocean. No surprise then that we’re always looking for ways to step into the stay in our element. That’s why we created Dockwear™ - a hardworking collection of comfortable, durable clothing designed for everything it takes to get to the water and everything that happens thereafter. Informed by our long commitment to building the most technical fishing products on the planet, Dockwear™ puts you in rugged fabrics that welcome hard use, with the fit and features needed to stand up to the everyday demands of fishing life. Whether it’s keeping the boat and gear ready, making quick runs to pull the pots for an evening boil, or just unwinding with friends after a great day, Dockwear™ gets it done. 62
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// DOCKWEAR
NEW
NEW
DOCKWEAR HOODED JACKET
DOCKWEAR JACKET
Carbon, Dark Bronze
Carbon, Dark Bronze
NEW
NEW
DOCKWEAR VEST
DOCKWEAR PANTS
Carbon, Dark Bronze
Carbon, Dark Bronze
NEW NEW
DOCKWEAR INSULATED CAP Dark Bronze
NEW
NEW
DOCKWEAR WOOL BENIE Carbon, Dark Bronze
DOCKWEAR TOTE
Carbon, Dark Bronze
DOCKWEAR PACK
Carbon, Dark Bronze
63 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
WADERS
#FishItWell
NEW
NEW
COLOUR
COLOUR
SIMMS LOGO T-SHIRT
FISH IT WELL T-SHIRT
MONTANA STYLE T-SHIRT
Steel Blue Heather, Charcoal Heather, Olive Heather
Charcoal Heather
Charcoal
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
NEW
COLOUR
COLOURS
WORKING CLASS T-SHIRT
WADER MTT T-SHIRT
CHEERS FISH IT WELL T-SHIRT
Red Clay Heather, Dark Teal Heather
Grey Heather, Navy Heather
Black, Navy Heather
NEW
NEW COLOUR
TROUT WANDER T-SHIRT
TARPON HEX FLO CAMO T-SHIRT
TARPON LOGO T-SHIRT
Charcoal Heather, Dark Teal Heather
White
Blue Heather
NEW COLOUR
64
WALLEYE LOGO HOODY
WORKING CLASS HOODY
Charcoal Heather
Grey Heather, Navy Heather
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
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50
50
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
SOLARFLEX® GUIDE GLOVE
BUGSTOPPER® SUN GLOVE
SOLARFLEX® SUNGLOVE
Hex Flo Camo Steel, Hex Flo Camo Grey Blue, Cork
Riparian Camo, Cloud Camo Grey, Sterling
Cork, Hex Flo Camo Timber
NEW
NEW
NEW
50
50
50
KISPIOX® MITT
FREESTONE FOLD-OVER MITT
FREESTONE HALF-FINGER GLOVE
Black
Black
Black
NEW MERINO
WOOL
WOOL 1/2-FINGER GLOVES Steel
NEW
NEW
NEW
50
50
50
CORE INFINIUM FLEX GLOVE
CORE INFINIUM FOLD-OVER MITT
CORE INFINIUM HALF FINGER GLOVE
Black, Riparian Camo
Black, Riparian Camo
Black,
NEW
NEW
MERINO
GUIDE WET WADING SOCK MERINO LIGHTWEIGHT HIKER SOCK Admiral Blue
NEW
MERINO
WOOL
Steel
50
COLOURS
MERINO
WOOL
MIDWEIGHT HIKER SOCK
Hex Flo Camo Carbon, Steel Grey
NEW MERINO
WOOL
MERINO MIDWEIGHT OTC SOCK Carbon
WOOL
MERINO THERMAL OTC SOCK Carbon
65 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com
WADERS
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NEW
COLOURS
RIPSTOP CAP
SINGLE HAUL CAP
Slate, Khaki
BIG CATCH CAP
Sterling, Riparian Camo, Black, Sterling, Slate, Loden, Dark Moon, Simms Orange
Carbon, Storm,
NEW
RIPRAP CANVAS CAP
NORTHBOUND CAP
Dune, Admiral Blue
Dune, Evergreen
LEATHER PATCH CAP
Black, Dark Stone
NEW
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
COLOURS
OIL CLOTH CAP
BIG SKY COUNTRY CAP
Black, Coffee
Storm, Admiral Blue
COLOUR
BASS PATCH TRUCKER
TROUT PATCH TRUCKER
Black
Carbon, Rusty Red
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
COLOURS
TROUT ICON TRUCKER
Black, Mocha, Tan, Simms Orange, Cyprus, Granite, Storm, Riparian Camo
NEW
Sterling, Shadow Green
COLOUR
ICON TRUCKER
Salmon (Carbon), Tuna (Steel), Musky (Tan), Permit (Sterling), Bonefish (Pacific), Redfish (Granite), Salmon (Hex Flo Camo Timber), Tuna (White), Musky (Hex Flo Camo Loden)
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
SMALL FIT TROUT ICON TRUCKER
NEW
COLOURS
66
FLYWEIGHT MESH CAP
Foliage, Dark Moon
BASS ICON TRUCKER Foliage
THECHOICE CHOICEOF OFPROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONALGUIDES GUIDES++ANGLERS ANGLERSWORLDWIDE WORLDWIDE THE
// HEADWEAR
NEW
COLOUR
FISH IT WELL TRUCKER
PAYOFF TRUCKERT arpon (Storm), Trout (Heather Grey), Permit (Blue Depths), Pike (Hex Flo Camo Timber, Marlin (Grey Blue)
TARPON ICON TRUCKER Rich Blue
Dark Moon, Granite
NEW
NEW
COLOURS
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Scotland
SALMON, SCOTCH AND SO MUCH MORE I have had the good fortune to fish for Atlantic salmon in some of the great rivers of Russia and Norway, places that are home to some of the largest fish and healthiest salmon runs in the world today. As I look back at many wonderful adventures overseas, there still remains something extra special about catching salmon in Scotland, inarguably the spiritual home of salmon fishing as we know it. It might be because this is the place I learned to fish, because I have Scottish blood in my veins, or because the taste of single malt whisky and haggis after catching a salmon from the River Spey is just too perfect a moment to be replicated anywhere else. Jonathon Muir
James Muir (www.jamesmuirphoto.com)
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Casting for salmon on the legendary River Spey during the early summer months.
Tay. Spey. Dee. Tweed. The names of Scotland’s ‘Big Four’ rivers whose fishing cultures and traditions have touched every inch of our sport, from tackle and fly design to casting techniques. I maintain the belief that, if you were ever lucky enough to experience a ‘perfect’ salmon fishing session, there’s no finer setting in which to do it than Scotland. It’s not all about this ‘famous four’ though, there are some truly world class rivers in the northern regions of Caithness and Sutherland, and many other beautiful and productive rivers as you travel down through Inverness-shire and the surrounding areas. Adventurous sorts can also head over to the Isles of Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides for a salmon fishing experience like no other - surely the wildest and most remote place you can fish in the British Isles today. Of course, let’s be honest here. The reason many of us now look outside of our home countries for our salmon fishing fix, and travel to the incredible and remote rivers of Russia’s Kola Peninsula for example, is because salmon fishing in Scotland is not quite what it was. The heyday of the 1970s is often referred to as the ‘Golden Era’ of salmon fishing in Scotland, and numbers of fish running our rivers have never again reached the lofty heights of those glory days. The reasons and hypotheses behind this decline are under constant debate.
Endless Possibilities
Some rivers still perform extremely well, some even better than they once did, whilst many others are a mere shadow of their former selves. For the modern Scottish salmon hunter to be successful, the trick is now knowing exactly where to go, and exactly when to go to experience the fishing at its best. When you hit it right, you’ll soon understand what makes fishing here so special. Scotland is blessed with a long fishing season. Our first rivers open on January 8th and our last rivers close on the final day of November - that’s a staggering 327 days (exclud72
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
“
Sundays are for talking about salmon, planning to catch salmon, and dreaming about salmon
”
ing Sundays of course). It remains so that fishing for migratory fish, salmon and sea trout, on a Sunday is illegal in Scotland - a strange quirk from the past maybe, but just another ingredient that makes fishing here a little bit mythical. Sundays are for talking about salmon, planning to catch salmon, and dreaming about salmon.
When to go
So.. when do you go and where do you go? Despite the long season, don’t turn up in January expecting to catch fish! Some rivers are known for their spring runs, and late March through to June can be a fantastic time to visit. Others are out-and-out summer rivers where you’ll want to fish from June through to August. Get the conditions right and September to October can be phenomenally good on some rivers too. Wherever and whenever you choose to go, the most important piece of advice I can offer is to keep your expectations in check - remember this is an unpredictable game. Salmon fishing in Scotland is not a numbers game either. Yes, it’s possible to have a bumper day or legendary week, but go there with modest expectations and you’ll come away from the experience with much more satisfaction.
Cracking the Code
A long season also brings with it a range of exciting fishing techniques and technical challenges. You can be casting 2-inch brass tubes on a 15ft rod and a Skagit line into the Tay in the middle of a snowstorm in March, and then riffle-hitching size 16s on a rocky Highland river with a single-hander in August. Large
The author posing with a beautiful early season salmon from the River Tay Benchil. Local knowledge and research here is king, and reaching out to someone who knows the water, the weather, and has experienced the fishing will help to put you in the right spot. That’s where we come in. Farlows Travel may be more accustomed to arranging exotic voyages to the world’s greatest lodges and camps, but we also love giving out honest advice to people looking to experience the fishing in our home waters too.
More Than Salmon Fishing rivers offer both wade fishing and boat fishing depending on your preference and ability, and you’ll find every style of river from those with perfectly manicured and accessible banks, to those where you’ll need to trek for miles through peat bogs and clamber over boulders. You’ll find dramatic rivers like the Findhorn, which flow through narrow gorges that cut through the Caledonian forest, to rivers that meander through open grasslands with views of distant mountains. There’s truly something for everyone here. Whatever sort of fishing you enjoy doing, and whatever sort of tackle you enjoy using, Scotland will give you that opportunity.
Where to go
Finding salmon fishing in Scotland is a combination of publicly available online booking systems, and secret text messages and emails within close-knit circles. Both systems have their merits and their flaws. With so many rivers and beats to choose from, it’s easy to get lost, book something without doing your research, and end up disappointed.
As most fly fishers will know, there’s so much more to it than just the fishing. Much, much more. With a history filled with romance and struggle, the landscape of Scotland is one that can’t fail to speak to you: Its castles, ruins, and forests are dramatic relics from the past, every inch soaked in folklore, poetry and song. Scotland’s reputation for deep-frying absolutely everything has also overshadowed what I think is one of the best ‘foodie’ locations in Europe. The country is blessed with having some of the world’s most amazing produce, particularly seafood. Lobsters, crabs, langoustine, scallops, oysters, Arbroath ‘Smokies’ (haddock)… the list goes on and on. Whisky - need I even mention its importance? If you’ve never cast a line for salmon in the River Spey while the smells of malted barley waft over the hills from nearby distilleries, you absolutely must. Come to Scotland to try and catch a salmon, but stay for everything else. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Lots of traditional salmon patterns are still in use in Scotland to this date. And they still catch fish!
“
”
Every inch of Scotland is soaked in folklore, poetry and song
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Scotland offers truly breathtaking sceneries, and many of its rivers are rich in both culture and history.
Freel free to contact Jonathon for advice and guidance on salmon fishing in Scotland, where to stay and when to visit. jonathon.muir@farlowstravel.com
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Flats Fishing It All Began with Bonefish Thomas Søbirk and Peter Lyngby
Are you considering that first saltwater trip to the tropics? There is so much to choose from these days, still our friends at Getaway Fly Fishing are quick to point out where to start: With bonefish. That’s where it all began and, in their opinion, it’s where any newcomer will get a feel for what makes flats fishing so exhilarating.
Nowadays,
we can look at big fish all day (and all
Bonefish on Fly Rods
night!) on social media. If it swims, it can – and will – be caught on a
Fly fishing for bonefish was considered pretty damn cool when
fly. Fly fishing in warm saltwater looks great: The scenery, the color
we started fishing for them in the nineties. Most books or articles
of the water, the blue skies and, of course, the fish. It’s a completely
covering the subject would focus on how difficult they were to
different scenario these days than when we started traveling the
catch: “The grey ghosts of the flats – you’ll never see them without a
world decades ago.
guide”, “Bonefish are so spooky most of them must surely die from ulcers”, “You must double-haul and be prepared to cast straight
Now it’s: “GT on fly – let’s do it! Huge tarpon in the jungle – why
into the wind” and so on.
not? Roosterfish from the beach – so cool… Kings and queens down under – sure thing mate! Even permit – they’re not so difficult
When we finally got a chance to fish for them, it was almost
anymore, right?”. The list keeps growing. By now, it’s getting so long
surprising to learn that you could actually catch a few, at least as
that many forget where it all started: It all began with bonefish.
long as you did everything right - which, like everyone else just
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
bonefish several times a day (if it isn’t on Insta, it didn’t really happen, right?), or they go for one of the bigger species (bigger fish tend to get more likes on social media, right?).
“
”
The hunt is what bonefishing in shallow water is really about
They forget that whether they’re after their first bonefish or their first GT on the fly, there are a several important steps between booking the trip and posing for the camera. They might also not realize that the only thing that is easier with a big fish, like a GT or a tarpon, is spotting it in the water. Everything else is generally harder, and the road to success is much longer than with bonefish. We know because we arrange trips for all three species, and while we fish for all three with great enthusiasm there is no doubt in our mind where fly anglers should start their journey into warm saltwater: Start, where it all started – with bonefish. We have been doing our fair share of big fish hunting but still enjoy stalking bonefish on a shallow flat. It’s back to basics in the most rewarding way.
The Fish The fact that bonefish can grow to over fifteen pounds has no relevance for those of us stalking them on shallow flats. You will never see one of this size, and most of the fish you cast to will be from a modest 40 cm to 70 cm in length, probably weighing in at three to seven pounds (if anyone ever bothered to do so). These fish will happily show you what a good deal of your backing looks like when you hook them in shallow water. But it’s not really about their fighting abilities either, even if it will impress you and put a big smile on your face.
The Hunt The hunt is what bonefishing in shallow water is really about. And it doesn’t get any better than when the fish are tailing. When looking at a bonefish, specifically the location of its mouth, it should come as no surprise to learn that the fish is digging up most of its food on the bottom. Even if crabs, shrimps or other crustaceans – all high on the menu of bones – don’t always sit on the bottom waiting to get sucked up, the fish will often pinch their prey against the bottom starting out, we didn’t. However, we approached the fishing with
when attacking them. Bonefish will also hover around, sucking up
proportionate amounts of respect and an eagerness to learn, and
sand, to see if there’s a snack hiding somewhere. When doing so
after having invested some time (and money), we finally got to the
in shallow water, there simply isn’t enough water above them to
gratifying point where we could spot the fish, sneak up on them,
hide their dirty business, and a big tail (their speed has to come
make the cast without spooking them, present and strip the fly, set
from somewhere!) can be seen splashing erratically on the surface.
the hook, and eventually land the fish and pose for the camera. Dedicated bonefish anglers claim that a hungry fish (the so-called
The SoMe
happy bonefish), flashing a silvery tail in its most tantalizing way, is better than a fine lady whispering “Come and get it, Tiger”. There’s
In this day and age of instant gratification, it seems some fly
more than one boner-joke floating around out there, surely none of
fishermen see this scenario quite differently: Either they book the
which are suited for this fine publication. But we do agree, stalking
trip, buy the tackle and expect to pose for the camera with nice
tailing bones is as good as it gets in saltwater fly fishing. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Bonefish found cruising along in shallow water is what it is all….
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The visual aspect is incredible: The bonefish will sometimes follow
A nine foot 8-weight rod is the preferred choice for most of us. The
your weighted fly, and on a light-colored bottom you will often see
reel should have a decent drag but you don’t need a reel with high
the fish getting totally excited. When you pause your strip, it will tail
drag pressure. Try to stop a bonefish with heavy drag, and you will
on the fly and you will feel the bumps – but you shouldn’t set the
lose it. Every time. All modern fly reels will hold more backing than
hook before you feel the weight of the fish. You will soon learn to do
you will need – what would be the purpose of having backing, if
so with a gentle strip strike – but everyone has made the mistake
they didn’t? – and your fly line should be a floating line made for
of trout lifting on a bonefish, sooner or later, and so will you.
warm saltwater. No shooting heads, no intermediate lines. A floating weight forward line is still the best tool for hitting the intended target.
The tackle Ready for some good news? The right tackle for successful
Since we started walking the flats, one additional piece of
bonefishing isn’t complicated at all. Other than the obvious flies,
equipment we now wouldn’t be without has seen the light of day: A
leaders and some tippet, this is basically what you should focus on:
waterproof backpack. It makes life so much easier when carrying lunch, drinks, raingear and tackle while wading the flats.
Great polarized sunglasses! You can’t catch what you can’t see. Sunglasses is such an important part of your gear that we recommend traveling with at least two pairs, in case of loss or
Preparation & Mentality
breakage. And if you do bring two pairs: Get some with copper
For years, we have been hosting trips in the Bahamas, and every
lenses for bright sunlight, and some with lighter-colored lenses that
year we see the classic example of clients preparing for everything
help on an overcast day.
other than the one thing that will really make a difference: Your cast.
“
Sure, it’s nice to have three boxes full of flies and being geared up from head to toe with all the right stuff – but that’s not what catches
We have been doing our fair share of big fish hunting but still enjoy stalking bonefish on a shallow flat
”
the fish. That’s one fly, well presented and since you’re casting to moving fish, your window of opportunity is fairly narrow. If you can’t make that shot in time, no amount of fancy gear will save you. During most trips, there will be times with great weather and perfect conditions. And there will be times where the wind can be a challenge. It’s not that difficult to cast 12 or 15 meters against the wind but you need to know how to do it (an aggressive double haul and
You’ll also need really good wading boots. Unless you only fish out
lowering of the rod isn’t pretty but it works). But if you have never
of a boat (which would be a shame because bonefishing is so
done it before – if you are used to casting a 4-weight trout rod
much more fun when wading in really shallow water), you need
or a shooting head for seatrout with the wind in your back, why
flats boots that are comfortable enough to wade long distances.
would you? – then it feels almost impossible the first time you try
While you can’t train your bonefish vision back home, we seriously
it. But that first time shouldn’t be with a tailing bonefish in front of
recommend doing some test miles in your flats boots before you
you. Practice before your trip, and if you can find a good casting
go. Make sure your boots really fit you well. And don’t forget socks
instructor, a few lessons will be the best investment you can make.
made for wet wading.
Bonefishing in the mangroves requires both skill, patience and good vision. The rewards are great, however.
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As previously mentioned, the visual aspect of bonefishing is more
On our bonefish trips the novice bonefish angler will find himself
difficult to practice on your lawn at home. And spotting the bonefish
in a relaxed environment and he will enjoy the company and
isn’t always easy. Their tails don’t give them away every time you
knowledge of our experienced tour leader and fellow anglers. Every
find them. Many times, they will suddenly appear out of nowhere,
evening you’ll have the chance to chat about your new experiences
cruising along the mangroves or on a flat. Most newcomers make
and probably learn new tricks for the day to come.
the mistake of looking too far away for incoming fish, resulting in a bone suddenly creeping up on them and getting spooked. Stuff
The skilled bonefish angler will definitely appreciate the opportunity
like that, you’ll learn over time.
of spending extra hours on the flats compared to the classic guide day.
As you progress as a bonefish angler, you might start to see more similarities with the trout fishing you already know: It’s visual, it’s
However, if you feel the need for the comfort of having a professional
delicate, a stealthy approach is rewarded, and if you present the
guide right next to you when fishing – or you just can’t help
right fly in the right way, the fish will most often eat it.
wondering about the difference between fishing with a guide and being on your own – we are working with friendly and very skilled
The Trip There is nothing wrong with being guided to a great catch but the cool thing with bonefish is that you can do it on your own. You just need someone to point you in the right direction: Mainly where to fish, and always in relation to what the tide is doing. Whether or not it is more satisfying to find the fish on your own and make the right decisions leading up to hooking and landing the fish is a matter of personal taste. What do we think? Hell yeah, it’s a heck of a lot more fun! That’s how we do it on our hosted trips to Acklins Island in the Bahamas.
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guides with fast boats. They even know some very nice spots for chasing permit. But again, take our word for it: Real permit fishing is pretty far from the effortless image you meet on Instagram.
“
It doesn’t get any better than when the bonefish are actively tailing
”
Bonefish are lightning fast, but they’re mostly fun to catch because of the visual takes.
Nothing much beats scouting a sandy flat on a sunny day with your best fishing buddy.
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The Beginning Is Not the End While our bonefish trips are the perfect way to get introduced to tropic saltwater and flats fishing, no one becomes an expert after their first trip. After 25 years, and many more weeks, of bonefishing we still learn new stuff on every trip. Bonefish are not as predictable as you might think, and it is not always just a tide-in, tide-out game. Sometimes, their behavior is a mystery even to seasoned guides. It must be one of their survival skills not just to follow daily routines, and – as a result - trying to figure them out is one of the things that keep us coming back for more. You can always improve your bonefishing: The casting (and yes, modern fly rods do actually get better and better), new flies to tie and new techniques to test after each trip, new flats and areas to investigate. New maps, satellite images and apps on tides to investigate. As with every other part of fly fishing it never stops, and you will never be fully educated. Which really is the beauty of it all. For more information log onto: www.getawayflyfishing.com or write to: info@getawayflyfishing.com
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“
After 25 years of bonefishing we still learn new stuff on every trip
”
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“
Try to stop a bonefish with heavy drag, and you will lose it
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”
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Gran Canaria A TOURIST MAGNET WITH HIDDEN FLY FISHING POSSIBILITIES Marek Sidor
Gran Canaria is a beautiful and remote Spanish island off the coast of Morocco and Western Sahara. It is part of the Canary Islands, which – geographically – belongs to the African continent. Gran Canaria is an incredibly popular tourist destination, but relatively few people know about the varied fly fishing possibilities here.
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I have been living
and working on the island of Gran Canaria since 2005. In my spare time, I dedicate myself to fly fishing, photography and videography. The island offers a surprisingly vast array of quality possibilities for visiting fly fishermen. The ocean, of course, is a resource in its own right, but – to me – the freshwater fisheries are the main attraction. For instance, there are several inland reservoirs, which can provide visitors with great challenges and surprises – in addition to beautiful sceneries and hikes. Most of these reservoirs were established during Franco’s dictatorship in order to supply tomato plantations with sufficient amounts of water. (Before the arrival of tourism, tomato plantations were the main basis of economic growth on the island). In an attempt to regulate the insects and algae in the reservoirs, they were stocked with carp, black bass, tilapia (and pumpkinseed) in the early 1960s. Since then, the fish have established and adapted and are reproducing like in the wild – without any human interference. It could therefore be argued that we are now talking about “wild” species that thrive naturally on Gran Canaria.
Year-Round Season
Fly fishing possibilities are available throughout the year, thanks to the pleasant climate offered by the islands. Because of the climate, the fish don’t hibernate and go into winterinduced lethargy. Instead, they practically feed non-stop – and as a result, they grow faster than in most of the other Spanish provinces – or elsewhere in Europe, for that matter, where similar species are found.
“
The carp are clever; built like tanks and full of muscles that they employ in a maniacal and explosive way
”
Tilapia and pumpkinseed are aggressive fish that provide great fun on light gear, when using small nymphs and streamers. Black bass are mighty predators that can be targeted using poppers or pulsating streamers - and they’re known for being dogged fighters that hit the flies with great determination and power. The carp are clever; built like tanks and full of muscles that they employ in a maniacal and explosive way once hooked. And they can be sight-fished in shallow water, providing nerve-wracking excitement and drag-burning runs.
Risk Factors
A risk factor in the survival of the local Gran Canarian species is the regular use of reservoirs for irrigation, which – to this date - continues to be practiced by local farmers. This activity relates to the high temperatures and droughts due to lack of rain, which is evidently becoming more and more common every year due to climate change. It can radically reduce the water levels, thereby threatening all aquatic life and affecting fish reproduction. Over the years, I have been observing problems relating to irrigation in a number of fish habitats. Fortunately, to my surprise, I have also found the fish to be very resilient. I’ve seen how the different species have revived and kicked back in a vital way once the rain finally comes and fills the dams and reservoirs with life at the onset of the spring season. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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The adaptation abilities of the local species in many of the small-sized dams are amazing, especially considering the large size many of the fish achieve during their lifespan. On some occasions, we’ve even seen hatchlings during winter, which has me wondering if the black bass, which usually reproduce in spring, can also breed at other times throughout the year?
Reservoirs upon Reservoirs
Gran Canaria has a large number of reservoirs in many different locations where exciting fly fishing possibilities can be found. Most of the reservoirs are situated in the central part of the island, due to the varied geological structures and microclimates here. The northern zone is greener and rainier. Its biodiversity and prolific fauna and flora are highlighted by the Canarian pine forest, which is very resistant to the frequent wildfires during dry seasons. The mountain ravines are ideal structures for the construction of dam walls, and many of the man-made dams have given life to different bodies of water by filling them up during the rains. The southern area mostly consists of deserts with a bustling tourism industry due to the many beautiful beaches here. Reservoirs, dams, and lakes, however, can be found all over – so if you do come, be sure to bring your fly fishing equipment.
What Gear to Bring?
I use various fly fishing kits ranging from 5-weights to 8-weights depending on the species I’ll be targeting and where I’ll be targeting them. Since I mainly sight-fish from the shoreline, I typically use floating lines, but every now and then – when I’m bellyboating for bass, I use fast sinking lines, so I can reach the fish at depth. The flies I use include streamers, poppers, nymphs, and bread patterns etc. I personally prefer natural colors such as gray, brown, olive and so on in order to best imitate some of the naturally occurring prey items.
“
They create a vacuum with their bucket-sized mouths and suck the prey inside
”
The hooks I use are always barbless. Especially for the Black Bass - due to the way they hunt and inhale prey items, I find that it’s important to use barbless hooks. This species feeds by creating a vacuum with their bucket-sized mouths and sucking its prey inside. A light, hovering fly can easily end up in the gills or the throat, endangering the life of the fish. I’m therefore inclined to using Clouser Minnow-style flies with heavy eyes, which I know from experience are less likely to result in deep-hooking. Combining this type of fly with a floating line and a fluorocarbon leader somewhere between 3 and 3.5 meters is ideal when it comes to reaching the necessary depth of the reservoir when fishing from the bank. The leaders should taper into 0.28 – 0.30mm tippet sections, so you can really put pressure on the fish during the fight. Depending on the size of the black bass (and not least the size of the flies used) 9’ 5 – 7-weight rods can be used. The black bass, especially, can be picky and moody, so be sure to vary your retrieves and try different fly patterns and fishing depths until you succeed hooking up with one of these incredibly entertaining fish. 96
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There are both mirror- and common carp in Gran Canaria, and they grow rapidly.
Fly Fishing for Carp
For carp fishing, we usually use 9’ 7 and 8-weight outfits and search for cruising or feeding fish in the shallows. This type of fishing is incredibly exciting, and it requires a stealthy approach and calm nerves. Once you’ve intercepted a carp, it’s all about presenting the fly – a small nymph or leech pattern, in front of the fish and slowly start stripping as the fish approaches. The takes are typically quite subtle, while the resulting runs are the absolute opposite. Be prepared for backing to be exposed as many of the carp here are both big and powerful.
Dressed for Success
The clothing we use here is designed to protect us from the sun’s rays. We use UV-protecting neck gaitors, gloves, and caps when fishing during the summer months, and if we’re fishing in shorts and t-shirts, we apply ample amounts of sunscreen to any exposed skin. The sun can be relentless! Mainly, we’re just fishing from the banks, but sometimes it’s nice to get in and do a bit of wet wading. (Mostly for the cooling effect, though). When fishing during the cooler winter season, we usually wear waders. The wading shoes need to be strong and suitable for walking on unstable and rugged terrain. Vibram soles are to be preferred and, in some spots, studs are recommended too.
Why Freshwater Fishing? Carp are finicky fish with great sensory skills, a keen eye-sight and lots of fighting power.
While speaking of fishing in Gran Canaria, it may seem strange not to mention the possibility of fly fishing in the sea. Gran Canaria, after all, is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The reason why I spend 95% of my time fly fishing freshwater is because the sea is quite overfished.
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Largemouth bass (or black bass) are predatory fish that will hit both streamers and poppers with cruel intentions.
“
There is also the opportunity to fly fish for tuna, barracuda and seabass
”
I prefer to spend most of my time in reservoirs where catch and release can be practiced, and the fish species may continue to thrive. However, in case anyone is interested in fly fishing in the sea, I would recommend visiting the areas with sandy beaches as you have the possibility of fishing for seabass here. It’s not a native species, however - it was introduced accidentally by local fish farms. They are prospering, however, and they are aggressive fish that hit hard – which makes them fun to target on a fly rod. They threaten the local fish species by occupying their living space and feeding on their fry, so don’t be afraid to harvest a few and prepare them for dinner. (They’re really good eating!) There is also the possibility of fly fishing for tuna, barracuda etc. But as I have already mentioned in the beginning, they are scarce. Furthermore, they usually occupy rocky areas or areas with deep water where it can be rather dangerous for someone with little local knowledge and experience. As a result, I always recommend contacting a local guide or to head out with a charter boat.
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The author, Marek Sidor, with a good-sized talapia. Another fish species that now thrive in the many Gran Canarian lakes and reservoirs.
Pumpkinseed are beautiful little fish belonging to the perch family. They’ve been widely stocked and now breed in the wild.
“
There are weekly flights to Las Palmas, which is the capitol of the Gran Canary Islands
”
Carp have powerful tails and once hooked they can really make a dent in your backing.
Want to Fish Gran Canaria?
There are weekly flights to Las Palmas, which is the capitol of the Gran Canary Islands and the biggest city on Gran Canaria. From here, simply rent a car and go explore. There are plenty of reservoirs, mountain lakes and dams to fish and most of them have good populations of carp, black bass, and tilapia – in addition to a few pumpkinseed. A freshwater fishing license is only 10 Euros for a 15-day license (or 25Euros for a full year), and it can be pre-ordered online: https:/ /www.gran-canaria-beaches.com/gran-canaria-freshwater-fishing-licence.html For more information about Gran Canaria, please refer to: https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/ FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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The carp can be sight-fished in shallow water, providing nerve-wracking excitement and drag-burning runs.
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Handcrafted with pride
Every single Scott rod has been handcrafted from scratch, right in our shop- for over 45 years - and that’s something we’re very, very proud of. But that alone doesn’t make our fly rods exceptional. Frankly, it’s starting to feel like the term ‘handcrafted’ is being thrown around a little loosely these days. Simply combining ingredients to build a fly rod, ‘handcrafted’ or not, doesn’t matter a lick if you don’t have the right recipe – it’s the design that’s paramount. It’s our dedication to a legacy of fly rod design and award-winning innovation that sets us apart. It all starts with a defined purpose – what’s this rod going to do? Then we carefully blend (by hand, of course) the perfect proportions of technology, art, engineering, and instinct using only the best ingredients available. To finish, we top it all off with a big slab of pride. And, it doesn’t hurt that we’ve got 45 years of experience practicing our craft.
The result? The Ultimate Fishing Tools.
AVAILABLE RODS // SECTOR - CENTRIC - F-SERIES G-SERIES - FLEX - TIDAL - SC - T3H - L2H - RADIAN For the full Scott product range - including apparel and accessories, please refer to www.flyfisheurope.com
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NEW
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High Performance Fly Rods MANIC TACKLE PROJECT
Introducing the new Centric series fly rods. Scott put the feel in fast action rods. Now we’re taking it to the next level. Cutting edge Centric series fly rods deliver new levels of stability, recovery speed, and range, while giving anglers tons of feedback through the easy flexing tip sections and highly transmissive blanks. These are the most efficient rods Scott has ever created. High line speed, flat, stable loops are easily generated at any distance with minimal effort from the caster. Apparent to anglers of any skill level, these rods feel very light in the hand, are insanely accurate, and are simply a joy to fish at any distance. Ease of roll casts and mends is next level. The ability to control loop shape and line speed at any distance give anglers wide ranging versatility. Centric rods combine new tapers and multi-modulus lay ups with a new resin system to increase fiber density and reduce weight, and they feature our new generation ARC reinforcement for greater stability along multiple axes. New custom rolling equipment allows us to control fiber placement and density with new levels of precision. And just to top it all off, we designed new standard-setting componentry for Centric rods that redefine functionality, durability, and beauty. Scott Centric rods are fit with Flor grade cork, new titanium stripping guides with super slick zirconia inserts, new low glare Snakebrand Universal snake guides, and a new fully milled reel seat featuring speed threads, easy grip knurling, self-indexing hoods, micarta inserts, a special Delrin lock washer, and type 3 flat black hard coat. Available in line weights #4-7
MODELS ........................... 4 PIECE RODS CENTRIC 854/4 - Grip A
Light, crisp, and delightful at close to medium ranges. This rod forms laser-like loops effortlessly making it very accurate even with long leaders. The ability to compress the loop very tight allows for longer range or windy conditions fishing when called for.
CENTRIC 906/4FB - Grip B
The 906/4 but with an added fight butt for putting extra pressure on big fish. From big foam bugs, to double flies and shot under an indicator, to streamers, the rod handles them smoothly and with minimal effort from the angler. No struggles with this one in picking up long lengths of line, or the more gaudy rigs we attach to the end of our lines.
CENTRIC 904/4 - Grip A
Fantastic line speed and stability with tons of feel. This is the rod for long 6X leaders, trico spinners, and pin-point accuracy. It has plenty of power for nymph rigs or terrestrials married to finesse for keeping fish attached to super light tippets and tiny hooks.
CENTRIC 905/4 - Grip A
Effortless control best describes the Centric 905/4. This rod easily generates blistering fast tight loops all the way to gentle open loops. The ability to control loop shape and line speed at all distances makes for a true do it all trout rod. This is not a nymphing 5 weight that fishes dries so-so, or a dry fly 5 weight that you can muscle through a day of nymphing. This one excels at almost all techniques and set ups. It’s also effortless to roll cast, single hand spey, and mend.
CENTRIC 906/4 - Grip A
Easy going power best describes the 906/4. From big foam bugs, to double flies and shot under an indicator, to streamers, the rod handles them smoothly and with minimal effort from the angler. No struggles with this one in picking up long lengths of line, or the more gaudy rigs we attach to the end of our lines.
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CENTRIC 1004/4 - Grip A
Light, responsive, and stable, this is a great rod for nymphing, dries, and stillwater. It has plenty of power for long casts on lakes or while wading deep but remains sensitive and protects light tippets for technical fishing. The extra length and responsive tip make line control and mending a breeze. This rod excels at roll and single hand spey casts.
CENTRIC 907/4 - Grip B
The ultimate tool for streamers, bass bugs, or any time big fish want a big meal. The rod may be one of the most fun to cast in the whole series. The combination of lightness, power, and responsiveness make it effortless to drive out heroic casts. It also makes this rod easy to cast all day when drifting alongside the river bank.
CENTRIC 955/4 - Grip B
CENTRIC 1005/4 - Grip A
Our favorite Centric for lake fishing. This rod has plenty of power for long casts and sinking line but retains a ton of feel for detecting subtle strikes. This rod is equally at home fishing floating lines to match the hatch, stripping leeches, or buggers and crawdads on sink tips.
When you need a more nymph and streamer focused 5 weight with a fighting butt, this is the rod. It has a supple tip for stack mends and roll casts but plenty of power in the bottom end to drive the bulkier terminal tackle on the end of the line.
CENTRIC 1006/4 - Grip B CENTRIC 956/4 - Grip B
Streamers, lakes, single hand speys. This is our favorite multi-disciplinary six weight. It’s a great streamer rod on the river, loves to tackle wind-blown lakes, and is right at home on a river when you need to cast big indicators. This one is an absolute joy to cast. For a powerful rod it feels light zippy.
Smooth and controlled. This rod is equally at home on still waters as it is on steelhead and salmon rivers. It’s a dream to cast lines of all densities, and lays out single hand speys and roll casts with ease. For a 10 foot rod, there’s hardly a bounce or secondary wave to be felt. The line sings off of this rod flat and fast. A great pick for any freshwater application where a powerful 6 weight with tons of line control is needed.
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DENMARK
FLY FISHING FOR PIKE
IN SHALLOW PRIVATE WATERS
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Denmark’s lowlands offer plenty of exciting pike waters. Pike populate a multitude of small and medium-sized private and public lakes, canals, rivers and ponds as well as a couple of coastal areas where they thrive because of the low salinity levels. If you’re into visual strikes and close-range bursts of explosive power, Denmark is just the place for you. Omar Gade
Omar Gade, Jan “Kenobi”, Morten Valeur, Stephan Dombaj
Denmark is home to numerous beautiful lowland lakes, ponds and rivers that are populated by big, ferocius pike. Most Danish fly fishermen are too preoccupied with seatrout to ever target pike and, as a result, there are plenty of hidden-away waters that hold pike that rarely ever see a fly. Omar Gade and Denmark Fishing and Outdoor Lodge have access to some privately owned pike lakes that offer great sight-fishing for pike. Here’s Omar Gade casting for pike on one of these small secluded lakes.
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Poppers are great for targeting areas with lily pads, reeds and weed patches - plus they’re super fun to fish with. Big and lively treamers, however - and particularly preyfish patterns, are safe bets when it comes to choice of fly.
It’s a mid-May morning
and I finally have a day off in the wake of a busy first half of an intense season at the lodge, where I’m kept busy guiding for seatrout. While enjoying an excellent cappuccino, Jan and I decide on a day’s worth of fly fishing for pike in one of the small lakes that Denmark Fishing & Outdoor Lodge has been given exclusive rights to. We mount the boat trailer behind the Jeep with the small aluminum boat on it, and pack lunch boxes, cameras, waders and various tackle bags. We load the Rod Mount Sumo holder with our Scott Tidal 8-weight rods that we’ve come to rely on for our pike fishing (because they load quickly while reserving plenty of feel while casting big pike flies). Our trusty Waterworks-Lamson reels are loaded with floating lines. We are going to be fishing very shallow waters.
Perfect Pike Habitat
It takes about two hours to reach the chosen lake and we arrive at our destination late in the morning. The sun is already perched high in the sky. And the weather is typical of the early summer days in southern Denmark. The sky is mostly clear with drifting clouds and changing light conditions. The private lake, where we are going to fish, is a lowland body of water with an average depth of 1.0 to 1.5 meters, which 108
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makes it the perfect environment for fly-fishing. I sometimes wonder if Mother Nature has designed certain lakes with us fly fishermen in mind. And with this one, I am almost sure. Almost all Danish pike waters have a certain peat coloured shade not dissimilar to tea, whereas the clarity and depth perception varies from season to season. As we arrive at the lake, I’m relieved to see that the water is very clear. The conditions, overall, look very promising and I’m excited to get started fishing.
Fish in the Shallows
It doesn’t take long before the boat is on the water and we are ready to go. While navigating, in reverent silence, with the electric motor at low speed, we quietly emerge from the rushes that surround the lake’s shoreline zone. While doing so, we try our best to catch a glimpse of resting or ambushing pike on the scattered carpets of sea grass that cover the bottom. Soon, we’ve seen a small handful of medium-sized fish that take off at lightning speeds, once we get too close, leaving clouds of particles and turbidity behind them. It always gets me giggling with excitement! Slowly, I steer the aluminum boat towards a small bay covered with water lilies – a spot that creates a perfect microcosm for predatory fish. Here, they find both the shadow and shelter needed for ambush attacking unsuspecting preyfish.
Pike like to ambush their prey and they can often be found hovering in shallow bays full of lily pads.
The First Few Casts
Once we have reached our first spot, I keep the boat in position at the edge and set Jan up for casting. Jan, who is my trusted assistant at Denmark Fishing Lodge, is nicknamed “Jan Kenobi” for his almost eerie ability to catch more fish than anybody else – and with an apparent and enviable ease. In spite of his youth, he has great experience!
“
I sometimes wonder if Mother Nature has designed certain lakes with us fly fishermen in mind
”
surface splashing water on the edge of the boat. The pike, in all its rage and fury, almost hits the side of the boat with its head, but it misses the fly. But that’s part of the game. The fun bit is to see the many different ways these fish react to the fly and how they hunt it down, seemingly, without any perception of danger.
Cast Again…!
I urge Jan to cast immediately in the same direction again… 2 strips and “bang”, “strike! The fish is a solid pike around 85 cm that we carefully release after a short but hectic fight. After another couple of casts in the same area, Jan shouts out with a big bend in his fly rod: “Big fish!” (It’s only to be expected with Mr. Kenobi in the boat, I reckon).
Jan opts for a classic copper flashabou fly, 15 cm long, a very common variant for Danish waters. He makes a short cast of 8 - 10 meters, and makes the fly pulsate and spurt across the small patches of open water between the lily pads. He uses a rather “acrobatic” retrieve aimed at providing the fly with an abrupt jiggy movement pattern.
The water explodes and droplets are sprayed across the surface as the pike thrashes about. The Tidal rod bends and convulses but then, suddenly, it jerks back abruptly as the fish comes untied. We both cast again several times, aware that there is still a probable chance that the fish will strike again. Unfortunately, however, this time around it doesn’t happen.
He retrieves the last 3 meters by jerking the tip of the fly rod from side to side; from the right and to the left, right, left, right, left… and it is just at the end of one of these retrieves that a pike breaks the
As the day progresses, we catch a number of small- and medium-sized pike in various areas of the lake, mostly on black and purple flies. Before we know it, it’s afternoon and FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Photo: Babacci Mauro
Omar Gade with a beautiful pike in the vicinity of one meter caught on a chartreuse popper.
I take a brief moment to quietly observe the magnificent body of water. It is a beautiful and atmospheric little spot in the middle of a private hunting reserve populated by ungulates. With us on the water there are a few pairs of swans, flocks of ducks and, (dear me!), a few cormorants.
Targeting the Shallows
April marks the beginning of the conservation period for pike in all Danish waters. The conservation period ends in May, but – after the spawning – lots of pike still linger in the shallows and in the weeds. We decide to go look for a big one along the rushes…
“
The line cuts sideways and everything comes tight.
”
While we slowly putter along the shallows, I tie on a green/ chartreuse foam diver and then proceed to make a series of short cast covering every meter of the water radially. I do my best to land the fly as close to the rushes as possible – to cast with absolute precision. But nothing happens.
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Changing cloud-cover and light-conditions are perfect for chasing shallow water pike.
No reaction from the pike. Then all of a sudden - from the opposite side of the boat, towards the middle of the lake, we hear a big explosion on the surface. We turn around and see baitfish skirting across the surface in all directions. I retrieve the fly swiftly and set up to cast in that direction. I know from experience that when pike hunt actively for preyfish they are more likely to strike an imitation of a baitfish rather than a diver or a popper - and sometimes they might even become a bit selective as to size and colors. In order to leave nothing to chance, I immediately replace my fly with a silver one. (The baitfish that we’ve seen jumping are probably small rudds or roaches). After a single cast, the water comes alive and a “V”-wake forms behind the fly. I put renewed effort into the retrieve and after a few endless seconds, I feel a sudden but solid stop. The streamer, which up until now, has been clearly visible below the surface, disappears right in from my eyes. I wait for a short moment, then proceed to set the hook by pulling the line with my left hand and, simultaneously, lifting the rod.
Fish On!
The line cuts sideways, and everything comes tight. The fish is on: And what a beautiful and solid fish it is. The fight begins and, after some escape attempts towards the weeds along the bottom, I start pulling the big mama towards the boat. It’s a fish of around a meter – one for the books and one to remember, especially because it was sight-fished after having seen it hunt in the surface film.
Photo: Louise Pilgaard
Pike are great fighters and, when the conditions are right, they can be sight-fished in the shallows.
When the water is hot and the oxygen levels in the water are relatively low, we try to release our fish without even taking them out of the water. We don’t want to stress them too much. We use a big knotless landing net and try to handle the fish, remove the hook and release the fish in the water. In these private waters, we pay particular attention to sustainable practices and we limit the number of fishing days to a few days a year. We look after our customers, and by limiting the fishing pressure, we make sure they are able to make the most of their time on the water. After releasing the fish, we take a break and enjoy an excellent and well-deserved sandwich. We exchange opinionated words about what we’ve experienced throughout the day and sum up. Till now, we have caught about ten pike on different flies in different colors such as copper, chartreuse, and black/purple. The latter has produced particularly well today, perhaps because of the water clarity and the bright and sunny conditions. It’s a magical day. We are more than satisfied with the results this far and, for a while, we just sit in silence and enjoy the view of the lake. We’re secretly waiting, though, and hoping that with dusk, and the imminent change of light, we’ll have a final window of half an hour with some hectic fishing. We’ve experienced it before - a sudden period of twilight mayhem when all the pike seem to join together in a simultaneous hunting craze across the whole lake. Who knows, it might happen again. Time will tell… FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Photo: Febiyan
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Photo: Andreas Dress
More information: www.denmarkfishinglodge.com
Spring and early summer is a truly beautiful time of year to visit Denmark and, besides pike fishing, there are plenty of other species to target with a fly rod.
Photo: Martin Arusalu
Photo: Steffen Muldbjerg
Photo: Markus Winkler
Fyn is the home of Denmark Fishing Lodge - Denmark’s only full-board fly fishing lodge. It mainly targets seatrout, but if you’re into pike fishing, they guide on pristine private waters.
Denmarks has a surprising amount of wildlife - and pike can be fished with great succes all over the country.
LIGHTWEIGHT RODS ONLY BALANCE
WITH LIGHTWEIGHT REELS For 20 years, Waterworks-Lamson has set a bold benchmark for innovative fly reel architecture. Large arbor, lightweight, sealed systems, zero maintenance, advanced materials, state of the art machining, innovative and enviable styling—the list is long. The thing to remember is we were there in the beginning—pushing the envelope, refining ideas, changing how people thought about reels—and we’ve never stopped. What’s that saying? “Plenty of time to sleep when you’re dead.” 108 114
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 2020
THE PURSUIT OF INSPIRED DESIGN US MADE
HANDCRAFTED PERFECTION It’s that classic made in America story meets the wild, wild West. We make the magic happen from beautiful Boise, Idaho. Job perk: Just outside of city limits, Idaho contains more designated wilderness and wildlands than any other state in the lower 48—with over 100,000 miles of river. Waterworks-Lamson reels are machined, assembled, and qualitycontrolled at our factory in Boise, Idaho. All of our machined reels—Cobalt, Force SL Series II, Arx, Litespeed Micra 5, Speedster, and Guru Series II—use components machined in the US. Liquid and Remix use components manufactured in both the US and overseas. All components integral to the drag system are manufactured in the US.
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L IGHTER AND STRONGER ..........................
The performance benchmark for a fly reel is retrieve rate per ounce. If you haven’t thought about it before, think about it now: there’s no downside to high retrieve rate other than extra weight. As an example, consider the 2021 Gen 6 Litespeed: CNC machined with material distributed artfully along critical load paths, stable and strong, so light you might forget it’s there, but beautiful enough to make you remember it is. The marine version of Litespeed (LSM) is equipped with a hybrid drag system, fixed spindle, large heat-wicking conical surfaces, click stop drag knob. The LSM incorporates close tolerance composite bearings, and comes equipped with a linear spring set optimized for each reel size. It holds an IPX8 waterproof rating to 100 ft.
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LITESPEED M-SERIES “ A super arbor format, lightest-weight-in-class, space frame construction saltwater fly reel with the IPX8 certified waterproof Cobalt hybrid drag system.
NEW
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Click here to watch product presentation
SPECIFICATIONS MODEL
DIAMETER
WIDTH
WEIGHT
ROD WT
LINE CAPACITY
LITESPEED M 8
118mm
24mm
156 g
WF 8-9
WF8 250 yds 20#
LITESPEED M 10
122 mm
25 mm
184 g
WF 10-11
WF10 250 yds 30#
LITESPEED M 12
130 mm
30 mm
227 g
WF 12-13
WF12 300 yds 30#
RIVIERA
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ULTRAMARINE
.S. UPER . . . . . .ARBOR . . . . . . FINESSE .............
Litespeed F-Series is the freshwater version of the new Litespeed. The chassis is based on the conical system found in our other reels with the addition of a click stop drag knob and a unique spring set that creates a linear progression of torque with very fine resolution at the light end of its range. CNC machined with material distributed artfully along critical load paths, stable and strong, so light you might forget it’s there, but beautiful enough to make you remember it is. LSF spool and frame architecture is super-arbor in scale for high retrieve and the smoothest possible drag - for protecting the lightest of tippets, but spare and open to promote line drying and, of course, reduce weight.
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LITESPEED F-SERIES “ The art of the fly reel derives from the science of the fly reel, but at the end of the day both art and science, when held in balance, serve to make us smile.
NEW
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Click here to watch product presentation
SPECIFICATIONS MODEL
DIAMETER
WIDTH
WEIGHT
ROD WT
LINE CAPACITY
89 mm
23 mm
88 g
WF 2-4
WF4 75 yds 20#
LITESPEED F -5+
95 mm
25 mm
102 g
WF 4-6
WF6 125 yds 20#
LITESPEED F -7+
102 mm
25 mm
128 g
WF 6-8
WF8 180 yds 20#
LITESPEED F -3+
WHISKEY
FUEGO
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B ALANCING ACT ..........................
The basic parameters - weight, retrieve rate, line storage, drag torque, ergonomics - each must be balanced against the other to build a high-performing reel, and collectively provide the basis for the design. By far the most important of these are weight and retrieve rate, because the ratio of the two define what is considered a large arbor reel. Expressed simply, think of these two parameters as retrieve rate per ounce, and hence the Holy Grail of fly reel design is an architecture which yields the lightest structure possible for a given diameter, without sacrificing reliability and durability. Enter the completely re-designed Speedster reels. They feature an enhanced spool machining technique, focusing material only where it’s needed - the reason why both are significantly lighter and higher performing than their predecessors. But importantly, the form, the styling of each, clearly flows from the same place; allowing the dimensions of structure and function to inspire beauty.
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SPEEDSTER S-SERIES “ We’ve always believed that form shouldn’t just follow function, but be inspired by it, and that good design emanates from a harmonious expression of both.
NEW COLOU R
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Click here to watch product presentation
SPECIFICATIONS MODEL SPEEDSTER S -3+
DIAMETER
WIDTH
WEIGHT
ROD WT
LINE CAPACITY
83 mm
23 mm
92 g
WF 2-4
WF4 50 yds 20#
SPEEDSTER S -5+
93 mm
25 mm
109 g
WF 4-6
WF6 100 yds 20#
SPEEDSTER S -7+
100 mm
28 mm
134 g
WF 6-8
WF8 180 yds 20#
SPEEDSTER S -9+
109 mm
32 mm
161 g
WF 8-10
WF10 220yds 30#
SPEEDSTER S HD -7+
100 mm
28 mm
140 g
WF 6-8
WF8 180 yds 20#
SPEEDSTER S HD -9+
109 mm
32 mm
170 g
WF 8-10
WF10 220yds 30#
*Speedster S HD is not available in the colour Ember
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NEW COLOU R
EMBER*
MIDNIGHT
DARK SMOKE
The rivers in the Balkans are THE hotspot for European freshwater biodiversity. However, they are severely threatened by over 3,000 planned dams. If build, they would irreversibly devastate the continent's last sanctuary for endangered and endemic river species. We at Riverwatch are fighting for the preservation of the last unimpaired rivers as well as the restoration of those already canalized or dammed. We are particularly committed to preventing new hydropower projects.
Rivers are so much more than just water!
www.riverwatch.eu | facebook.com/riverwatchAUT www.balkanrivers.net | facebook.com/balkanrivers instagram.com/blueheartrivers
FLYFISH EUROPE EUROPE -- SPRING SPRING 2021 2021 FLYFISH
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The Kola Peninsula
A NEW KID ON THE BLOCK By Matt Harris
Russia’s Kola Peninsula is Europe’s last great wilderness. This vast region straddles the arctic circle to the east of Murmansk, and it is a wild, untamed land, untouched by all the man-made havoc and pollution that has desecrated so much of our modern world. Few roads encroach onto the peninsula, and apart from a handful of small, remote villages, the terrain is inhabited by only bears, reindeers, foxes, mink and wolverine.
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For the salmon fisherman, the Kola’s untamed wilderness is a wonderland. Unimpeded by man-made obstacles and pollution, the salmon of the Kola still flourish as they once did across the entire North Atlantic Seaboard. They continue to come barreling into the wild, crystalline waters of the Kola in numbers reminiscent of earlier times, before man’s relentless progress had so heavily impacted on their numbers elsewhere. The salmon of the Kola have evolved to tackle their singularly rugged freshwater environment, and as a result, they are broad-shouldered, deep-set and remarkably strong. This has marked the salmon of the Kola out as perhaps the ultimate prize for the avid salmon angler. Their prowess as aggressive, hard-fighting fish is second to none, and the fish are revered above all others by those that have been lucky enough to tangle with them. Anglers new to the Kola are often astonished by the savage way in which the Kola fish attack their flies, and the subsequent violent mayhem and spectacular acrobatic displays that they provide once hooked.
Conservationism
While the Kola remains pristine, it is, like every corner of the globe, coming under increasing scrutiny from those wishing to profit from the Atlantic salmon and the other potential riches that it can offer. Those that recognise the importance of sustaining this wilderness are keen to find ways to preserve it, and many believe that conservation-minded catch and release fly anglers have an important role to play.
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The aim of the reserve is to create a protected danctuary for the wild Atlantic salmon.
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The Kola Reserve is the brainchild of a passionate Russian fly angler and conservationist and his proposition is to create a protected sanctuary for the wild Atlantic salmon of the Lumbovka and Kachkovka rivers. The aim of the Reserve is to conserve these precious fish for generations to come, and the small number of fly anglers that will be invited to visit the Reserve can play a big part in sustaining the fisheries, and indeed the wilderness of the Kola Peninsula.
The new kids on the block
The Kola Reserve is situated in the wildest and most remote corner of the Kola, on the far Northeastern tip of the Peninsula. Both the Lumbovka and Kachkovka have a thriving run of large Atlantic salmon. The two rivers could not be in a better place in salmon fishing terms, in what veteran salmon anglers might call ‘tiger’ country. Just to the west of the Lumbovka, the mighty Yokanga is feted for its huge trophy salmon – the largest on the Kola Peninsula - while the impossibly prolific Ponoi, a few miles to the south of the Kachkovka, is similarly celebrated for its impossible numbers of smaller but nonetheless good-sized fish. Each river has its own charm – while these little gems may not consistently offer the monsters of the Yokanga or the huge numbers of the Ponoi, the Lumbovka and the Kachkovka are both intimate in scale and manageable enough to be comprehensively covered with light gear by competent salmon anglers fishing from the bank. Using their skills to wade the rivers and deploy classic spey-casting techniques, anglers can tackle the water proficiently without any recourse to ultra-long casting or fishing from a boat, making the rivers particularly attractive to the discerning salmon angler. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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We found the salmon of the Kola Reserve to be particularly aggressive...
” The fish were typical Kola fish: muscular, deep-bodied and hard-fighting, often cartwheeling high into the arctic sunshine before dashing downstream with the lucky angler in hot pursuit. Despite the cold temperatures, I mainly fished a full floating line and a large Sunray Shadow and I was rewarded with exhilarating visual takes as the fish broke through the surface to take the fly. This all added up to thrilling and exhilarating fly-fishing. The anglers agreed unanimously that the prospects for the Kola Reserve appear to be extremely bright. In 2021, the Kola Reserve will open for business for the first time.
There is no need for ultra-heavy tackle, and a light, thirteen foot eight-weight rod will cover most of the water, and allow the angler to really get the best out of the fish.
Exploratory Efforts
I joined a small group of veteran fly anglers on an exploratory season on the Kola reserve in 2019, charged with analyzing and evaluating the fishery. Despite many years of experience, the group came back to the makeshift camp every evening enthusing about the quality and quantity of the fish in both rivers. The fish were, as the project had hoped, big, brawny and plentiful. Many good-sized fish were landed, including an excellent number of salmon weighing over twenty pounds. The biggest salmon recorded weighed in at thirty pounds exactly, and the river guards, who know the Lumbovka and Kachkovka intimately, regaled the group with stories of monstrous fish caught in previous years. The biggest authenticated fish from the Lumbovka so far weighed in at an impressive 37.5lbs The exploratory group experimented with various techniques, and we found the salmon of the Kola Reserve to be particularly aggressive, attacking flies fished on or just below the surface with savage abandon, even in the cold water of the early season. 122
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A new fly fishing destination
Limited numbers of fly-fishermen, using only barbless single and double hooks and practicing a strict 100% catch and release policy, will be invited to fish the Reserve throughout the summer and autumn months. Those lucky anglers will be required to leave only footprints, and take only memories. The revenue that they generate will be used to maintain and sustain a sanctuary for the wild salmon, and along with permanently deployed river guards, the anglers and their guides will act as guardians for the Reserve, ensuring that any incursion by illegal poachers is reported and dealt with. Anglers will be ferried to the pools on foot and by helicopter, and after long and exciting days on the water, will be able to unwind in the luxurious and comfortable, timber lodge, purpose-built in Finland and situated close to the banks of the Lumbovka Home Pool. Beautifully appointed, the lodge will offer elegantly furnished private rooms, featuring big, comfortable beds, ensuite showers and excellent drying facilities. Having soothed away any lingering aches and pains in the banya, guests will be able to repair to the well-stocked bar to regale each other with tall tales of huge fish caught and lost, while sipping on a refreshing gin and tonic or a reviving shot of frosty vodka. After aperitifs, the anglers will be well-fortified for the next day’s sport in the large, comfortable dining room, with
The Kola Reserve fish are particularly aggressive and prone to attacking big surface flies.
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The Kola Reserve is perfect for swinging flies with light tackle and floating lines
offer perfect water in which to fish riffle-hitched sunray shadow flies, perhaps the most exciting way to catch Atlantic salmon. Seeing these ferocious salmon burst through the surface to attack a hitched fly is a very special experience, and one of the absolute highlights of fishing the Kola Reserve. In one short session, one of the exploratory anglers caught five handsome salmon between twelve and twenty pounds using a full floating line and a large “Sunray shadow” fly, and described the day as one of the most exciting of his fly-fishing life
The Kackkovka River
delicious meals featuring locally sourced ingredients like reindeer steaks from the tundra, spider crab from the arctic ocean and other delicacies from further afield. These will be expertly prepared by Kristina Chernyakovskaya, the Reserve’s wonderfully talented head chef. On warm summer evenings, anglers will be able to enjoy an icy beer ‘al fresco’, while prime rib sizzles on the outdoor barbeque. In autumn, the guests may choose to wrap up warm and huddle around the fire-pit to enjoy a nip of fine single malt whisky and gaze up at the northern lights or the sparkling stars of the northern sky. The summer fishing should be dominated by the big fresh fish that run the river from early June until late July.
The Lumbovka River
The Lumbovka features wonderful fly water, with an excellent number of holding pools, including the stunningly beautiful Horseshoe Pool, the prolific Coliseum, and the long, boulder-studded tail-out of the Homepool, a short walk downstream of the camp. The glassy tail-outs are a feature of the Lumbovka, and they 124
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A few miles to the Southeast, the beguiling Kachkovka weaves across the tundra before slicing through a deep but accessible canyon. It then tumbles into a series of beautiful pools before cascading into the wild waters of the Barents Sea. The Kachkovka is smaller and wilder than the Lumbovka. As well as prolific numbers of handsome salmon in the summer months, it offers an additional and very special fishery. As summer fades, the endless carpet of sprawling tundra turns to a dazzling golden hue. In the low autumn sunshine, it is breathtakingly beautiful. Periodically, as the days shorten, this bewitching landscape lights up under the magic of the ‘aurora borealis’. It is then that the fabled Osenkas of the Kola start to run the rivers, and while it is early days to establish exactly what we can expect, the exploratory team established that both the Kachkovka and the Lumbovka see a number of these special fish return every year. Osenkas are a rare strain of salmo salar. Chrome silver and chock-full of fat, these heroic fish come charging into the river a full year before spawning the following autumn. They then remain a second winter under the ice before returning to the sea, and are thus in the river for a remarkable twenty months without feeding. On entering the river, the Osenkas are obliged to carry enough muscle and body-fat to see them through not one but two of the Kola’s savage winters, and it makes these fish, pound-for-pound, as powerful as any Atlantic salmon that swims.
Despite the relatively small size of the Kachkovka, it appears to have an abundant run of these wonderful fish. Wading in a beautiful, boulder-studded pool at the bottom of the canyon, I managed to prize six hard-fighting autumn-run osenkas out of the Kachkovka in just ninety minutes fishing in late September 2019. There are few rivers on the planet that can offer such hectic and exhilarating sport for Atlantic salmon.
The Kola experience
There is much more to the Kola Reserve than just enjoying unforgettable salmon fishing with good friends. A visit to the wild valleys of the Lumbovka and Kachkovka offers a rare chance to reconnect with the natural world, and to experience the beguiling beauty and solitude of the pristine tundra. If you are interested in experiencing the wild, primal magic of the Kola Peninsula, and in fishing prolific salmon rivers that have barely seen a fisherman in decades, give the Kola Reserve some serious consideration.
If you are interested in fishing the Kola Reserve, contact Matt Harris at mattharris@matharris.com
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Now C&F Design is set to launch a new and innovative waterproof tube fly box system that allows you to keep your precious salmon flies perfectly organized and protected. The range features a combination of clever storage tubes, slit foam for hooks and compartments for fittings - everything you need at hand to succed on the river. Micro Slit Foam
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NEW
C&F Design are best known for their innovative fly boxes and for inventing the slit-foam fly retention solution, which has since been heavily copied.
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The Tube Fly Box Range
CFT-5359 XXL Master Tube Fly Case ●Movable flip that will hold its position when the case is fully open. 8 unique non-slip rubber inserts prevent the box from slipping on wet surfaces. By using the foam-made separator included, you can store two flies in one clear tube. By storing flies in tubes they preserve their form and shape. Keep unused flies dry by storing wet flies into clear tubes individually. Includes 59 Clear Tubes in total (12 Long / 12 Medium / 14 Short / 21 Extra short).
CFT-1206 Small Tube Fly Case (short tubes)
CFT-1208 Small Tube Fly Case (extra short tubes)
・6 short tubes included【(113.5mm).㎜Combination of 6 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing Tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tubes. Comes with 2 lockable storage rooms for hook and tubes. 18 slits. Patented design.
8 extra short tubes 【(79.5mm).・Combination of 8 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tubes. Comes with 2 lockable storage rooms for hook and tubes. 18 slits. Patented design.
CFT-2206 Medium Tube Fly Case (medium tubes)
CFT-2210 Medium Tube Fly Case (extra short tubes)
6 medium tubes included【(137.5mm). Combination of 6 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tubes. Comes with 2 lockable storage room for hook and tubes. 20 slits. Patented design.
10 extra short tubes included【(79.5mm). Combination of 10 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tubes. Comes with 2 lockable storage rooms for hook and tubes. 20 slits. Patented design.
CFT-3206 Large Tube Fly Case (long tubes)
CFT3212 Large Tube Fly Case (extra short tubes)
6 Long Tubes included【(169mm). Combination of 6 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tube. Comes with 2 lockable storage rooms for hook and tubes. 18 slits. Patented design.
12 extra small tubes included【(79,5mm). Combination of 12 tubes and Micro Slit Foam for storing tube flies. Fitted with foam-made separator to select split location for clear tube. Comes with 2 lockable storage rooms for hook and tubes. 18 slits. Patented design.
SEE THE FULL RANGE OF C&F DESIGN´S PRODUCTS AT WWW.FLYFISHEUROPE.COM
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FLY TYING:
BRUSH ‘N WING MINNOW Jonatan Ternald - www.searun.org
Streamers are big-fish-magnets. Big fish get big for a reason – because they start feeding on calorie-rich baitfish. Therefore – if you’re into catching big fish, realistic baitfish patterns should be an integral part of your fly collection. In the following, Jonatan Ternald, presents the Brush ’n Wing Minnow, which is a pattern developed specifically for searun brown trout: An easy-to-tie and very lifelike pattern.
Materials Hook: Ahrex NS 172 Curved Gammarus, size 8 Thread: Veevus GSP 50D Tail and back: Brush ‘n wing Fiber, bronze back Belly: Brush ‘n wing Fiber, natural Eyes: Fish Skull Living Eyes, wind UV resin: Loon thick and coloured (hot orange)
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The finished fly doesn’t absorb very much water and it makes it easy to cast.
Brush ‘n Wing Minnow is a simple baitfish fly that is meant to be quick, easy and fun too tie. I learned the style from Nacho Heredero and have found out that it is possible to do variations of this fly ad infinitum. Simply mix the right colours for whatever baitfish you’re aiming at imitating and cut and trim to get just the right shape and profile. I personally find the Brush ‘n Wing fibres to be perfect for the fly, and – in the water – they have a special sheen that really attract sea-run brown trout (which is my favourite species to target with a fly rod). In my opinion, a lot of other fibres are too thick and bulky to make small minnow patterns. The Brush ‘n Wing material, however, is very thin and pulsating. On top of that, you get your flash incorporated into the fly in a very subtle and organic way. Having said this, I encourage you to try different fibres too. As soon as you get the technique right, it’s a both fast and easy to get a whole series of super-effective flies wrapped up with your favourite fibre materials.
Trimming the Minnow is probably the hardest bit. I have found that the easiest thing for me to do is to wrap up a bunch of Minnows and then trim them one after another – to get into a good workflow. This helps with trimming consistency – and is something I generally recommend. In order to properly trim the flies properly, you will need razor sharp scissor with blades that are at least 3 centimetres in length. The finished fly doesn’t absorb very much water and it makes it easy to cast. Mine have “Loon heads” for increased durability and for adding just a little bit of weight to the fly. Underneath the head I add some Loon Coloured UV Resin in fluorescent hot orange or red as a trigger point. This Brush ‘n Wing Minnow works just as well in fresh- as in saltwater. I use them across a wide range of different fishing spots; from really shallow waters fished with floating lines all the way to spots that drop off to 7 – 8 meters in depth, which I fish with fast-sinking lines. And I love how committed and prompt the takes usually are!
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1
2
Start by securing your thread. The GSP thread offers too little friction to get a really firm grip around the hook, so I usually like to add some super glue at this stage.
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Repeat with a bunch of 3-4-centimetre-long fibres on the back of the fly and fold the excess fibres back and secure them tightly with the tying thread.
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Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the belly of the fly with the natural-coloured Brush ‘n Wing.
Fold the excess fibres pointing forward back over the tail and secure them with a couple of wraps.
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Now repeat step 2 and 3 on the back using the bronze-coloured Brush ‘n Wing.
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Repeat the process once again on the belly with the natural-coloured Brush ‘n Wing. Then finish off with one last fibre section on the back and one on the belly to build the profile further.
Whip-finish and take some foam and push it over the head to secure the fibres and make room for a UV-glued head. Attach the eyes with a drop of the Loon Thick UV resin.
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9
Add some Loon Coloured UV resin between the eyes and zap it with your UV torch. Then take your Loon Thick UV resin and build a head for the fly.
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Wrap the tying thread all the way to the hook bend. Then take a bunch of 12-centimetre-long fibres and tie them in at a point about half the length of the fibres.
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FLYFISH FLYFISH EUROPE EUROPE -- SPRING SPRING 2021 2021
Now, it’s time to start trimming the body. Patiently and carefully trim it so it starts to look slimmer. The Loon Razor Scissors are perfect for this job. Continue trimming the fly until you’re happy with the shape and profile. Usually, you need to trim more than you think.
See the full Loon fly tying product range at www.flyfisheurope.com
NEW
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MA-R11 Blue
MA-R11 Red
Image: @AhrexHooks
EUROPEAN
DISTRIBUTOR
www.flyfisheurope.com
The Original Catch & Release Weigh Net
Ets.1987
McLean Angling is a New Zealand company supplying fishermen throughout the world with innovative and high quality landing nets and accessories. McLean began making nets in 1987, when it invented the world’s first catch and release Weigh Net. Since then its range of nets has expanded to include many different styles from small brook trout to large salmon. Manufacturing is undertaken in New Zealand with a focus on innovation, quality, and accuracy – McLean Weigh Nets are individually calibrated to guarantee accuracy to within 2oz/ 60g (small weigh), 8oz/220g (large weigh). Using high grade materials, strict quality controls, and hand made components, McLean nets are tough and functional to ensure long lasting service for the beginner, experienced angler, or professional guide.
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
FOR THE LOVE OF LINES Fly fishing humbles us. It leads anglers to believe we are equal parts super hero and insignificant organism. It allows us to value the progression of cutting-edge technologies while taking joy in worn wading boots, entrylevel pickup trucks, river-temperature beers, and afternoons trying to chase skunk off the boat. We at Scientific Anglers believe in a facilitation of the two, an ability to provide consumers with the best products available while enabling them to enjoy the simple, and often best, aspects of our sport. Scientific Anglers began with three men (Leon P. Martuch, Clare Harris, and Paul Rottiers) and a single vision, transposed into a company spanning across the globe, influencing the way modern fly fishermen interpret and practice our sport. The cast, the rods, the reels, and the flies all connect through the cotter pin of fly fishing: fly line. Scientific Anglers became the unequivocal champion of fly-line production through leading market innovation and development during fly fishing’s early widespread industrialization. Numerous editorials have been penned regarding the physics of fly fishing and the impact of polymeric coatings, evolutionary taper structure, core construction, complex density, and fluid dynamics. At the base of these arguments is a single common denominator: Scientific Anglers. We have implicitly initiated a majority of these arguments by facilitating the development of industry-leading technologies, a practice that inevitably leads to scrutiny amidst competitors. As we continue to walk one step ahead, our focus dwells on forward progress—a vision and mission which consistently and constantly pushes the technological limits of fly fishing. At Scientific Anglers, we accept responsibility for Spey geek grain-weight battles, trout bum standard-weight struggles, and saltwater suppleness bar brawls. We enjoy the dynamic struggle between old school, new school, and the evolution of customer and industry demands. What lies between the fish slime and truth is where we flourish. Scientific Anglers rejects the happy medians, the good enoughs, the that’ll do’s, and the status quo. Welcome to the next page in an evolving history of Scientific Anglers and welcome to the future of our sport.
scientificanglers.com
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Image by David Cannon
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-TECH-
History
Scientific Anglers is credited with being the first fly line manufacturer to break from the tradition of braided silk lines by introducing something truly revolutionary: polymer coated fly lines. No longer did anglers have to treat lines to make them float, or dry them after a day on the water. Scientific Angler’s lines float higher, last longer, and require very little maintenance. Our proprietary manufacturing method allowed us to infinitely adjust tapers, to create lines tailor made for different environments and a variety applications. Scientific Anglers chose to use flexible PVC because of it’s incredible wear and bending strength and weather-ability. That’s how we make the most durable fly lines in the world.
FLEX PVC What is flex PVC? Flex PVC is made by combining PVC with a suitable liquid known as a plasticizer. Plasticizers are added to make the PVC more supple, so that it can withstand the stress of being bent back and forth (casting for example). The type and loading of plasticizer determines how soft or rigid the end product is. Plasticizer science has evolved over the years and has adapted as needed. Older plasticizer technology used substances called phthalates which came under scrutiny and are now regulated by organizations and legislation like Proposition 65 (US-California) and REACH (EU). Flexible (plasticized) PVC is still widely used in many different markets like medical tubing, blood bags, flooring, rainwear and boots, automotive interiors, plumbing, imitation leather, inflatable watercraft, and cable insulation to name a few.
OUR CURRENT COATING FORMULATION Like other industries, Scientific Angler’s coating formulation has adapted over the years to better suit the market and to protect our resources. Scientific Angler’s current fly line coating formulation DOES NOT contain phthalate-based plasticizers present on California’s Proposition 65 chemical list or regulated by REACH. We are committed to providing the highest quality, most durable and environmentally friendly products that we can.
DURABILITY A final thought, and different perspective on environmentally conscious products: testing shows that our fly lines are 2-4 times more durable than competitive PVC lines, and 7-8 times more durable than competitive non-PVC lines. We keep more fly lines out of landfills simply by providing a more durable product.
AST PLUS
AST
SONAR
A revolutionary breakthrough in slickness technology; 50% slicker than the original AST
Scientific Anglers’ patented slickness agent, built into the coating
Our SONAR sinking technology takes flies to where the fish are: beneath the surface
SA•ID
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
WELDED LOOPS
The Scientific Anglers innovative line marking system
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Hand-welded loops on the ends A smooth section of line that of fly lines to provide loop-toserves as a tactile signal beloop leader connections tween the head and running line
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
SEAMLESS DENSITY
A gradual mixing of densities, resulting in a straight-line connection to the fly
DRY TIP
A unique blend of microballoons, resulting in high-floating fly-line tips
CAMO TIP
A subtle mixing of muted colors on the tip to provide increased stealth
ST PLUS Durable slickness additive built for warm climates
Watch Scientific Anglers product videos here
AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT
TROPICORE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
The inverse of the Tactile Ref- Braided monofilament core for Golf ball-shaped embossing erence Point - an embossed that reduces friction, resulting harsh tropical conditions section where the head meets in increased shootability the running line.
100-LB CORE
A 100-lb. braided monofilament core built for large fish and harsh tropical conditions
FLOATING TEXTURE
Diamond-shaped embossing that reduces surface area, resulting in high flotation
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SLICKNESS
Down to a Science Introducing AST Plus, the most advanced slickness technology in the world. Lasting on average 8 TIMES LONGER, with up to 5 TIMES LESS FRICTION than competitor’s lines, AST Plus is slickness, down to a science. What makes it so unique? Our AST Plus is a patented liquid compound that actually moves within the coating. It naturally migrates to the surface of the line as the coating begins to wear. This extends the life of a fly line and provides out-of-the-box slickness long after the line leaves the fly shop. Available exclusively from Scientific Anglers
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 2020
Lasts 8 Times Longer
on average, than the closest three competitors In addition to creating the slickest lines on the planet, AST Plus increases the durability of fly lines by leaps and bounds. Throughout our durability testing, lines with AST Plus consistently performed better than any other lines on the market. On average, lines with AST Plus last 8 times longer than lines from our top three competitors. How to read this chart: In our durability testing, we affix a weight to the end of a line and run it through the tip-top of a fly rod. One cycle constitutes the lowering and raising of this weight to provide friction through the guide. In looking at this chart, it is evident that lines with AST Plus last far longer than the lines of our top three competitors. In fact, lines with AST Plus last over 120% longer than the closest competition and, on average, 862% longer than the top three competitors.
Up to 5 Times Less Friction than the competition
For our slickness tests, we took the exact same length and diameter of lines with AST Plus, AST, and lines from the competition, wound them over a clean, polished surface, and clamped one end in a test frame. A weight was attached to the free end and pulled upwards at a constant rate, measuring the drag of the line over that span. How to read this chart: When measuring slickness, we focus on ounces of friction (or drag) at startup. Lower drag values mean that lines are slicker and therefore perform better. Lines with AST Plus feature far less friction on startup than lines from our top competitors. In this case, less is better.
Core Coating
Maintains Slickness for the life of the fly line
The AST Plus compound actually moves within the coating, naturally migrating to the surface as the line begins to wear down. This means lines with AST Plus not only retain their initial slickness, but can actually get slicker as the coating wears.
AST Plus
Lines built with AST Plus retain their out-of-thebox slickness far longer than any other fly line on the market. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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TWO HANDED PREMIUM TWO-HANDED LINES
Whether you’re swinging tubeflies or riffling hitches, the SA Two-Handed lineup has exactly what you need. From our UST lines, designed and developed by Flyfish Eruope, to our Spey Lite, Freightliner Skagit and Deliverance Spey lines, we have both of your hands covered. SA Two-Handed lines feature the SA•ID line identification tool, our AST slickness additive, as well as welded loops for easy switchouts. Some even feature the textured Audible Reference point or our SONAR sinking technology. No matter what your two hands are fishing for, SA has the line that will get the job done.
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
AST
SA•ID
ARP
Welded Loops
SONAR
Mastery Texture
Seamless Density
Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com
!
UST ULTIMATE SCANDI TAPER
TI P LEADER AND TIP RECOMMENDATIONS LINE RANGE
SONAR SALMON LEADER
UST TEXTURED TIPS
ANADROMOS / SALMON NYLON
USAGE NOTES
UST SD
X
-
X
WORKS WELL WITH CONVENTIONAL AND SONAR LEADERS
UST SHORT
X
-
X
WORKS WELL WITH CONVENTIONAL AND SONAR LEADERS
UST
-
-
X
CONVENTIONAL, TAPERED LEADERS ARE RECOMMENDED
UST EXPRESS SINK
-
-
X
CONVENTIONAL, TAPERED LEADERS ARE RECOMMENDED
UST MULTI TIP
-
X
-
THE UST TIP IS A MUST, SINCE THE UST MULTI TIP BELLY DOES NOT HAVE A FRONT TAPER OF ITS OWN
Loop-loop connection
UST SD
Sonar leader
UST Short WILLOW FLOAT
PALE GREEN HOVER
LIGHT BLUE INTERMEDIATE
DARK GREEN SINK 3
BUTT
10’
9’
8’
7’
CHARCOAL SINK 6
FRONT TAPER
6’
5’
4’
3’
TIP
2’
1’
0’
Loop-loop connection
UST
Absolute Salmon leader
UST Express Sink
Loop-loop connection
UST Multi Tip
UST Textured Tips IVORY / OPTIC GREEN FLOATING
SURF / GREEN SINK 1 / SINK 2
GREEN / DARK GREEN SINK 2 / SINK 4
CHARCOAL / DARK BROWN SINK 3 SINK 5
BLACK SINK 7
SHOOTING TEXTURE
................... For more tips on how to pick the right line setup - check out our linesector tool at www.flyfisheurope.com ................... REAR TAPER
FRONT BELLY TAPER
10’
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
0’
TIP
The solution for swollen rivers and the deepest pools. The heaviest artillery for the biggest salmon.
DOU
The fastest sinking fishfinders on the market – period! The UST Express Sink is a series of full sinking lines with weight / sink rates from 750grain-Sink 5 to 950grain-Sink 8. These lines are designed to allow the angler to dredge the fly in the deepest pools or slow down the swing in the fastest currents.
STS
ER
E LL
E
BE
-HA BLE ND
FLY LIN
UST EXPRESS SINK FEATURES + Designed in conjunction with FFE specifically for the demands of European salmon anglers + Fastest sinking shooting heads on the market + Powerful taper turns over heavy flies with ease while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly + No hinging provides a straight-line connection to the fly + Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from the depths before the next cast + Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head in low light + New and stronger loops
AST
SA•ID
WELDED LOOPS
MEDIUM MEDIUM
Multi-Tip Shooting Head System
Sink 5
Sink 8
SHOOTING TEXTURE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
Designed and developed by Flyfish Europe
SINK RATE SINK5
HEAD LENGTH 11,2M
GRAINWEIGHT 750 850
SINK5
11,2M
SINK8
11,2M
750
SINK8
11,2M
850
SINK8
10,8M
950
ORANGE / GRAY
30’
FRONT TAPER 2
20’
10’
ORANGE / BLACK
REAR TAPER
FRONT TAPER 1
0’
SONAR
Flyfisheurope.com
COLD COLD
UST EXPRESS SINK
REAR TAPER
MASTERY TEXTURE
FRONT TAPER 2
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER 1
10’
0’
“
In June 2020 I experienced some of my best Norwegian salmon fly fishing ever. Using SA’s Express Sink made this possible in the cold, flooded rivers I fished - Øistein Aas
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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UST SD
BE
-HA BLE ND
STS
ER
E LL
E
FFE have developed a new series of shooting heads for the European angler that spend their summers chasing salmon and seatrout! The development work has been done in close cooperation with Scientific Anglers with the specific goal of developing a series of lines that we would be proud to call “badass fishing tools”.
DOU
ULTIMATE SCANDI TAPER - SD
FLY LIN
The idea was not only to create a series of shooting heads that make the thousands of casts a hardcore angler cycle through during a season seem effortless, they should fish really well too. To accomplish our goals, these lines are packed with the latest technology developments that Scientific Anglers have to offer: •
• •
• •
SONAR SINKING TECHNOLOGY
SA•ID
AST
FLOATING
WELDED LOOPS
MASTERY TEXTURE
SEAMLESS DENSITY
FLOATING - SINK5
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’
COLD COLD
Designed by Flyfish Europe
MEDIUM MEDIUM
INTERMEDIATE - SINK3
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’ 11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE
FLOATING - SINK7
INTERMEDIATE - SINK5
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’
LINE WEIGHT 9/10
WEIGHT 39G/600GR
LENGTH 12,1M/39.7’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’ 11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
FLOATING - SINK3
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Flyfisheurope.com
Powerful taper designed to load modern rods. Turns over heavy flies and long leaders while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly. Handles large fly patterns with excellent turnover Vibrantly colored tracer at the rear end of the head for full control of the swing on distance or in low light conditions The Seamless Density sinking technology provides a super-smooth transition between different densities, eliminating hinging and providing a straight line connection to the fly Exceptional long sinking tips ensure deep and controlled presentations of the fly Shooting Texture allows the line to be easily lifted from the depth before the next cast
INTERMEDIATE
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’
INTERMEDIATE - SINK7
LINE WEIGHT 7/8
WEIGHT 31G/480GR
LENGTH 11,3M/37.1’
LINE WEIGHT 9/10
WEIGHT 39G/600GR
LENGTH 12,1M/39.7’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
8/9
35G/540GR
11,7M/38.4’
8/9
35G/540GR
11,7M/38.4’
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
9/10
39G/600GR
12,1M/39.7’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
10/11
44G/680GR
12,5M/41.0’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
SINK2 - SINK6
LINE WEIGHT 10/11
WEIGHT 44G/680GR
LENGTH 12,5M/41.0’
SINK2 - SINK8
LINE WEIGHT 10/11
WEIGHT 44G/680GR
LENGTH 12,5M/41.0’
UST SHORT
SEAMLESS SEAMLESS DENSITY DENSITY
SINGLE DENSITY SINGLE DENSITY
ULTIMATE SCANDI TAPER - SHORT
FLOATING -SD- FLOATING SINK 2 -SD- SINK 2
FLOATING
The UST Short is the next step in the evolution of the traditional Scandi SINK 3 FLOATING -SD- FLOATING -SD- SINK 3 taper. Featuring a more compact head, Seamless Density sinking technology, and a textured surface, the UST Short allows you to fish at the correct depth -HA BLE ND and speed wherever your fly is in the water column. SEAMLESS DENSITY
INTERMEDIATEINTERMEDIATE
SINGLE DENSITY DENSITY SUPER FASTSINGLE SINK 750/850 GRAIN
SEAMLESS DENSITY - FLOATING SINK 5 FLOATING -SD - SINK 5 SELLER -SD ST BE 2 FLOATING -SD- FLOATING SINK 2 -SD- SINK
AST
SINGLE DENSITY SINGLE DENSITY
WELDED LOOPS
FLOATING
FLOATING -
6/7
26GR
LENGTH 9,5M
7/8
30GR
9,9M
9/10
38GR
10,7M
42GR
11,1M
SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN 8/9 34GR 10,3M SEAMLESS DENSITY SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN SINK 2 10/11
DOUBLE DENSITY DOUBLE DENSITY FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE SD
FLOATING -
- FLOATING SINK 3 - INTERMEDIATE FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE
MEDIUM MEDIUM
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE Flyfisheurope.com
SINGLE DENSITY
Designed by Flyfish Europe
SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 FLOATING SUPER FAST GRAIN SINK 750/850 GRAIN
INTERMEDIATE SINK5 5 SINK3 -3SINK7 DENSITY SINGLE SD- SINK SD- SINK 7 3 -SD- SINK 7 SINK -DENSITY INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 5 --SUPER SINK INTERMEDIATE FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN - SINK 5 SEAMLESS SD- SINK -3SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE SD INTERMEDIATE SINK 3 3 INTERMEDIATE FLOATING SD FLOATING - - SINK 2 FLOATING
DOUBLE DENSITY DOUBLE DENSITY
LINE
LINE
INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 3 SEAMLESS WEIGHT LENGTH INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 7 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINKWEIGHT 7DENSITY WEIGHT WEIGHT LENGTH DOUBLE DENSITY 30GR SD- SINK 4SD 6/7 26GR 9,5M INTERMEDIATE -7/8 -SD- SINK 4 5 9,9M SINK 3 FLOATING -SD- INTERMEDIATE FLOATING - - SINK 2 7/8
30GR
9,9M
8/9
9/10 38GR 8/9 34GR 10,3M SINGLE DENSITY INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK SINK 4 SINK 4 3 -SD- SINK 4 3 -SD- SINK 9/10
38GR
10,7M
11/12
46GR
11,5M
10/11
42GR
10,7M
10/11
SEAMLESS DENSITY INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 5 INTERMEDIATE FLOATING -SD- SINK 2 INTERMEDIATE
LINE
WEIGHT 6/7 3 -SD- 26GR SINK 7 SINK 7/8 3 -SD- 30GR SINK SINK 7
LENGTH 9,5M
SD- SINK 334GR INTERMEDIATE -8/9
9,9M
SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6 LINE LINE SD 5 4 - SINK SINK 3 -SD- SINK SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN INTERMEDIATE -SD - SINK 3LENGTH FLOATING -SD INTERMEDIATE - SINK 3 WEIGHT WEIGHT WEIGHT LENGTH -4SINK-SD 4INTERMEDIATE SINK 3 -SDWEIGHT
10,3M
9/10
38GR
10,7M
10/11
42GR
11,1M
SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6
SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6 SEAMLESS DENSITY
FLOATING SINK2 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK- 4 FLOATING -SD- SINK 2 SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 LINE INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 5 WEIGHT FLOATINGWEIGHT -SD- SINK 3LENGTH 7/8 7 -SD- 30GR 9,9M SINK 8 SINK 8/9 7 -SD- 34GR 10,3M SINK 8 SINK SEAMLESS DENSITY
10,7M SD- SINK 738GR INTERMEDIATEFLOATING -9/10 --SD SD--SINK SINK25 11,1M FLOATING 10/11 42GR
6/7
9,5M
7/8
8/9
LINE
5 SINK 3 -SD- SINK WEIGHT WEIGHT LENGTH FLOATING -SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE -SD- 5SINK 4
11/12
SEAMLESS DENSITY
6/7
26GR
7/8
30GR SINGLE
8/9
46GR
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE
LINE SD 7 SINK 3 --LENGTH - SINK 8 5 SINK 5 -SDWEIGHT WEIGHT SD-- SINK SINK 8 SINK DOUBLE DENSITY 9/10 38GR 10,7M
11,5M
SINK5 SINK8 SINK- 5 -SD- SINK 6 3 5 -SD- SINK 78 SINK
DOUBLE DENSITY SINGLE DENSITY
9,5M
9,9M DENSITY
8/9
34GR
10,3M
9/10
38GR
10,7M
9/10
38GR
10,7M
10/11
42GR
11,1M
11/12
46GR
34GR 10,3M 10/11 42GR 11,1M SINK 5 -SD- SINK-SD 6 - SINK FLOATING INTERMEDIATE 35 SINK -750/850 SINK 5 33GRAIN SINK 3 -SD-SD SINK -SD- SINK 4SINK 3 -SDSD--SINK FLOATING SINK INTERMEDIATE -SUPER FAST 9/10 38GR 10,7M 42GR
SINK 7
DOUBLE DENSITY
11,1M
11,5M INTERMEDIATE 8 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 7 -SD- SINK SINK
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE SINK7 - SINK8 SUPER FAST SINK GRAIN 8 SINK750/850 7 -SD- SINK SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6
INTERMEDIATE --SD SINK4 8 - SINK SINK 5 -SD- SINK - SINK FLOATING -SDSINK3 INTERMEDIATE 4 SINK-53SINK5 -SD- SINK 5 INTERMEDIATEINTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 7
DOUBLE DENSITY
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE LINE SD- SINK 3 INTERMEDIATE -LINE - SINK 8 - SINK SINK 7 -SDWEIGHT SINK 3LENGTH -SD- SINK 7 5 SINK 750/850 INTERMEDIATE -SD WEIGHT LENGTH WEIGHT SUPER FAST GRAIN WEIGHT SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 4 7/8 30GR 9,9M 6/7 26GR 9,5M
26GR
9,5M
7/8
30GR
9,9M
8/9
34GR
8/9
34GR
10,3M INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 3 9/10 38GR-SD- SINK 10,7M 5 INTERMEDIATE
9/10
38GR SD
11,1M
DOUBLE DENSITY
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE LINE LINE LINE FLOATING -SD- WEIGHT SINK FLOATING - SD SINK-SD 7 - SINK SINK 3 -SDWEIGHT WEIGHT SD- SINK 8 WEIGHT LENGTH - SINKSUPER 5 - SINK SINK 7 -LENGTH INTERMEDIATE -SD SINK 7 SINK 750/850 6 4 23 -SDWEIGHT - SINK 8 5 SINK 5 -SDWEIGHT SINK INTERMEDIATE 4 3 -SD- SINK FAST GRAIN 5 LENGTH FLOATING - - SINK INTERMEDIATE
6/7
42GR
11,1M
SINGLE DENSITY FLOATING INTERMEDIATE 5 SINK 7 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD-- SINK INTERMEDIATE SINK3 SINK3 SD -SD--SINK 4 - SINK 5 SINK 3SINK4 -SD-7SINKINTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE -SD INTERMEDIATE -FLOATING - 3SINKINTERMEDIATE 3 FLOATING -SD- SINK
10/11
FLOATING - SINK3 4 SINK 3 -SD- SINK FLOATING -SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE -SD- 3SINK 3
42GR
30GR
FLOATING INTERMEDIATE 8 SINK 8 7 -SD--SINK SINK 7 -SD- SINK SINK5 SINK6 SINK- 5 -SD- SINK 6 5 -FAST SD- SINK SINK SUPER SINK6750/850 GRAIN
9,9M 10/11 42GR 11,1M 34GR 10,3M SINGLE SD- SINK 8 SINK 5 -DENSITY FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE 8/9 34GR 10,3M 9/10 38GR SD 10,7M SD SINK 5 7 SINK 8 6 SD SD SD SD SINK 5 SINK 8 SINK 3 SINK 7 SINK 5 7 3 INTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE SINK 4 SD SD SD SINK 5 -- SINK SINK 3 SINK 7 SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN SINK25 FLOATING --SD--SINK FLOATING FLOATING 9/10 38GR 10,7M 10/11 42GR 11,1M DOUBLE DENSITY 10/11
26GR
11,1M
DOUBLE DENSITY
SINGLE DENSITY
5 3 -SD- SINK 7 SINK 5 3 -SD- SINKSINK SINK 3 -SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE SINK7 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK -3 7SD- -SINK FLOATING 4 INTERMEDIATE -SD - SINK 7 5 FLOATING
7/8 3 -SD- 30GR 9,9M SEAMLESS DENSITY SINK 4 SINK
42GR
SINK - SINK 8 SINK 8 5 -SD SINK 5 -SD- 46GR 11/12 11,5M SD- SINK 7 750/850 SINK 3 -FAST 7 SINK 3 -SD- SINK SUPER SINK GRAIN INTERMEDIATE
11,1M
INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK -5SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 3 5 SINK FLOATING -SD- FLOATING 3 11,5M 11/12 5 46GR 11,1M
FLOATING 10/11 42GR
LINE SINGLE DENSITY SD-- SINK WEIGHT SINK 6 SINK 5 -SDWEIGHT -- SINK 6 5 -LENGTH FLOATING INTERMEDIATE FLOATING INTERMEDIATE 8/9 34GR 10,3MSINK 750/850 GRAIN SUPER FAST
INTERMEDIATEFLOATING 10,3M 9/10 38GR 10,7M FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE
34GR
INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 7
SINK 5 FLOATING -SD-WEIGHT
10/11
SUPER FAST SINK 750/850 GRAIN FLOATING
FLOATING - SINK5 SD
INTERMEDIATE LINE INTERMEDIATE WEIGHT WEIGHT
FLOATING
COLD COLD
FLOATING
DOUBLE DENSITY DOUBLE DENSITY INTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE
SONAR MASTERY SEAMLESS SEAMLESS SINKING SD- SINK 4 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 4DENSITY INTERMEDIATE -INTERMEDIATE 3 FLOATING -SD- SINK DENSITY TEXTURE TECHNOLOGY SD- SINK 5 2 SINK 5 FLOATING -SD- FLOATING -SD
FLOATING FLOATING
-SD-
F L YDENSITY LIN SINGLE
SD- SINK 3 INTERMEDIATEINTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 3 -FLOATING SINK 3 FLOATING -SD- FLOATING -SD- SINK 3
FLOATING -SD- SINK 2
SA•ID
E
DOU
SEAMLESS DENSITY
FLOATING
10,3M
7/8
30GR
9,9M
10,7M 9/10 SD- SINK 6 INTERMEDIATE -SD - SINK 4 38GRSINK 5 -10,7M INTERMEDIATE - - SINK 7 3DENSITY -SD- SINK 7 10/11 3 -SD-42GR 11,1M 10/11 42GR SINK 711,1M SINKSINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK DOUBLE 11/12 46GR 11,5M
LINE WEIGHT
WEIGHT
DOUBLE DENSITY 7/8 30GR
LENGTH 9,9M
8/9 10,3M FLOATING -34GR INTERMEDIATE 9/10
38GR
10,7M
10/11
42GR
11,1M
FLOATING - INTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 4 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 7 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 5 SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 4 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6 7 SEAMLESS DENSITY - SD The introduction of Seamless Density sinking technology was a necessary one from a design standpoint. We had to devise a way to get from a floating section to a fast-sinking one in under 10 meters. Instead of a quick density change, which could lead to unnecessary hinge points while casting and unwanted drag SINK 3 -SD - SINK 7 INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 5 - SINK 8 see is the SINK 7 -SDWhat SINK 3 -SD- SINK INTERMEDIATE -SDsinks SINK 5 -SD - SINK SINK 6 while in the water, we gradually mixed densities, which5resulted in a head which as7well as it casts. you result of- hours of designing, hours SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 4 of casting, and even more hours of on-the-water work. The UST Short is the most advanced, most groundbreaking Scandi taper on the market today. We are confident the results will speak for themselves. INTERMEDIATE -SD- SINK 7 SINK 5 -SD- SINK 6 SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 4 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 5 SINK 7 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 4
SINK 5 -SD- SINK 8 SINK 3 -SD- SINK 5
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 SINK 7 -SD- SINK 8
141
UST MULTI-TIP KIT
DOU
Multi-Tip Shooting Head System
STS
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E LL
E
BE
-HA BLE ND
FLY LIN
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
LINE WEIGHT 7/8 8/9 9/10 10/11
WEIGHT INCL. TIP 34G/520GRAIN 38G/590GRAIN 41G/630GRAIN 45G/700GRAIN
• A powerful shooting head with interchangeable tips turns over heavy flies and long leaders with ease while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly. • The slim loop-to-loop connection between head and interchangeable tips provides a smooth and seamless transition to eliminate hinging, and LEAF GREEN / BAMBOO provide a straight-line ORANGE connection toORANGE/ the fly. INTERMEDIATE BELLY FLOATING BELLY • The vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light. Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from the depths before the next cast GREEN / DARK GREEN BAMBOO LEAF GREEN BLACK SINK 2 / Intermediate, SINK 4 TIP TIP 4 Textured INTERMEDIATE • Kit comesFLOAT with Tips:TIPFloating, Sink2/ Sink4, SINK 7 TIP Sink7 SHOOTING TEXTURE BELLY
LENGTH INCL. TIP 9,5M/31.2’ 10,3M/33.8’ 11,2M/36.7’ 12,2M/40.0’
SHOOTING TEXTURE TIP
ORANGE / BAMBOO FLOATING BELLY
ORANGE / BAMBOO FLOATING BELLY
ORANGE/ LEAF GREEN INTERMEDIATE BELLY
LEAF GREEN INTERMEDIATE TIP
GREEN / DARK GREEN SINK 2 / SINK 4 TIP
BAMBOO FLOAT TIP ORANGE/ LEAF GREEN INTERMEDIATE BELLY
SIGHTER
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
TIP BELLY FRONT TAPER BAMBOO TIP TAPERLEAF GREEN FLOAT TIP INTERMEDIATE TIP TIP SHOOTING TEXTURE BELLY
20’
10’
0’
10’
0’
GREEN / DARK GREEN SINK 2 / SINK 4 TIP
BLACK SINK 7 TIP
SHOOTING TEXTURE TIP SIGHTER
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
UST MULTI TIP BELLY INTERMEDIATE SIGHTER BELLY FRONT For refined presentation just below the surface TAPER
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
LINE WEIGHT
WEIGHT INCL. TIP
7/8
34G/520GRAIN
9,5M/31.2’
38G/590GRAIN
10,3M/33.8’
9/10
41G/630GRAIN
11,2M/36.7’
10/11
45G/700GRAIN
12,2M/40.0’
SIGHTER
BELLY
20’
IVORY / OPTIC GREEN FLOATING
SURF / GREEN SINK 1 / SINK 2
GREEN / DARK GREEN SINK 2 / SINK 4
CHARCOAL / DARK BROWN SINK 3 SINK 5
BLACK SINK 7
DOU
SHOOTING TEXTURE
BE
• T he world’s first tapered, textured multi-density Spey Tips • Shooting Texturing reduces friction, allowing for easier pickups of sinking tips • Tapered design aids in turning over flies at any distance • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
-HA BLE ND
STS
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TIPS
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
142
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
10’
SHOOTING TEXTURE TIP
SHOOTING TEXTURE BELLY
UST TEXTURED TIP A selection that lets you pin-point the fishing depth
20’ TIP BELLY FRONT TAPER TIP TAPER TIP
• Designed in conjunction with Flyfish Europe specifically for the demands of European salmon and sea trout anglers 20’ 10’ 0’ 10’ 0’ • Powerful shooting head designed for interchangeable tips • Slim loop-to-loop connection between head and interchangeable tips provides a smooth and seamless transition to/eliminate hinging, and provide ORANGE/ LEAF GREEN ORANGE BAMBOO INTERMEDIATE BELLY a straight-line connection to the fly FLOATING BELLY • Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light GREEN /the DARK GREEN BAMBOO LEAF GREEN BLACK • Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from depths before SINK 2 / SINK 4 TIP FLOAT TIP INTERMEDIATE TIP SINK 7 TIP the next cast
LENGTH INCL. TIP
8/9
SHOOTING TE TIP
SHOOTING TEXTURE BELLY
REAR TAPER
FRONT BELLY TAPER
LENGTH 8’ 10’ 8’ 8’ 8’ 8’ 8’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 10’ 10’
TIP
DENSITY FLOAT INT INT/S2 S2/S4 S3/S5 S7 FLOAT INT INT/S2 S2/S4 S3/S5 S7
0’
GRAIN WEIGHT 80 80 80 80 80 80 120 120 120 120 120 120
FRONT TAPER
TIP BELLY FRONT TAPER TIP TAPER TIP
10’
0’
10’
0’
LENGTH 12’ 12’ 12’ 12’ 12’ 12’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’
DENSITY FLOAT INT INT/S2 S2/S4 S3/S5 S7 FLOAT INT INT/S2 S2/S4 S3/S5 S7
GRAIN WEIGHT 160 160 160 160 160 160 180 180 180 180 180 180
LENGTH 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’
DENSITY FLOAT INT/S2 S2/S4 S3/S5 S7
GRAIN WEIGHT 200 200 200 200 200
TIP BELLY FRO TAPER TIP TAP T
0’
10’
We have a completely redesigned our Skagit head series for 2021. Leaving the traditional, level-belly Skagit tapers behind, our new lines are fully tapered from end to end. This provides the smoothest power delivery from the rod, through the line, to the tip, and ultimately to the fly. We have painstakingly optimized the tip diameter of these heads to cover a broad spectrum of sink tip lengths and weights. No matter what you attach to the end, this line will deliver it accurately with authority. The floating head is available in a visible, but not obnoxious, sky blue color. The back of the head is identified with a black band that contrasts well with bright colored shooting lines.
NEW
SKAGIT Floating and Intermediate Skagit Line for Salmon and Steelhead
• Compact, powerful design with fully tapered belly for consistent turnover and accurate delivery • Designed to be used with sink tips for targeting steelhead and salmon • High contrast sighter at the rear of the head identifies the perfect overhang • Braided multifilament core for moderate and cold climates • SA_SKAGIT_XXX_GR_I – (### = grain weight) • SA_SKAGIT_XXX_GR_F – (### = grain weight) BLACK / SKY BLUE (FLOAT)
WEIGHT 420 GRAIN 450 GRAIN
FLOATING HEAD INTERMEDIATE HEAD LENGTH LENGTH 21.0’ / 6,4M 20.0’ / 6,1M 21.5’ / 6,6M 20.5’ / 6,2M
480 GRAIN
21.5’ / 6,6M
20.5’ / 6,2M
510 GRAIN 540 GRAIN 570 GRAIN 600 GRAIN
22.0’ / 6,7M 22.5’ / 6,9M 23.0’ / 7,0M 23.5’ / 7,2M
21.0’ / 6,4M 21.5’ / 6,6M 22.0’ / 6,7M 22.5’ / 6,9M
GRAM WEIGHT* 27,2G 29,2G
BLACK / MOSS (INTERMEDIATE)
31,1G 33,0G 35,0G 36,9G 38,9G *Full head weight
REAR TAPER
30’
20’
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
143
SPEY LITE INTEGRATED SKAGIT Integrated Light Skagit Line
HEAD WEIGHT LENGTH 150 GRAIN 3,4M 180 GRAIN 3,4M 210 GRAIN 3,7M 240 GRAIN 4,0M 270 GRAIN 4,3M 300 GRAIN 4,7M 330 GRAIN 5,2M 360 GRAIN 5,5M 390 GRAIN 5,9M 420 GRAIN 6,4M
TOTAL LENGTH 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 11,7G 13,6G 15,6G 17,5G 19,4G 21,4G 23,3G 25,3G 27,2G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips with light two-handed rods • Integrated, one-piece floating line reduces hinging on casts and eliminates loop-to-loop connection • Tip recommendations: • 150-210 grains - SONAR leaders 240-300 grains - 8’ TC Tips • • 330-360 grains - 8’ or 10’ TC Tips • Also works with single-handed rods SHOOTING • Braided multifilament core TEXTURE HORIZON / BLACK / HORIZON
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
ARP REAR TAPER
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
BELLY
FRONT TAPER 2
10’
FRONT TAPER 1
0’
SPEY LITE INTEGRATED SKAGIT - INT Intermediate Integrated Light Skagit Line
WEIGHT 150 GRAIN 180 GRAIN 210 GRAIN 240 GRAIN 270 GRAIN 300 GRAIN 330 GRAIN 360 GRAIN 390 GRAIN 420 GRAIN
HEAD LENGTH 3,4M 3,4M 3,7M 4,0M 4,3M 4,7M 5,2M 5,5M 5,9M 6,4M
TOTAL GRAM LENGTH WEIGHT* 30,5M 9,7G 30,5M 11,6G 30,5M 13,6G 30,5M 15,6G 30,5M 17,6G 30,5M 19,4G 30,5M 21,4G 30,5M 23,4G 30,5M 25,4G 30,5M 27,2G *Full head weight
• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips and large, weighted flies with light two-handed rods - and for casting in crammed condition • Integrated floating line reduces hinging on casts and eliminates loopto-loop connection; also allows you to strip to the sink-tip connection to increase chances of hooking followers • Floating running line with intermediate sink head • Tip recommendations: 150-210 grains - SONAR leaders 240-300 grains - 8’ UST Tips 330-420 grains - 8’ or 10’ UST Tips • Also works with single-handed rods • Braided multifilament core; for use in moderate and cold climates SHOOTING TEXTURE
HORIZON / HERON
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
70’
ARP REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
BELLY
10’
FRONT TAPER 2
FRONT TAPER 1
0’
SPEY LITE SKAGIT HEAD Light Skagit Head
WEIGHT 150 GRAIN 180 GRAIN 210 GRAIN 240 GRAIN 270 GRAIN 300 GRAIN 330 GRAIN 360 GRAIN 390 GRAIN 420 GRAIN
HEAD LENGTH 3,4M 3,4M 3,7M 4,0M 4,3M 4,7M 5,2M 5,5M 5,9M 6,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 11,7G 13,6G 15,6G 17,5G 19,4G 21,4G 23,3G 25,3G 27,2G *Full head weight
144
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips with light two-handed rods • Tip recommendations: • 150-210 grains - SONAR leaders • 240-300 grains - 8’ TC Tips • 330-360 grains - 8’ or 10’ TC Tips • Lines can be used with single-handed rods as well
BLACK / HORIZON
REAR TAPER 2
20’
REAR BELLY FRONT TAPER 1 TAPER 2
10’
0’
FRONT TAPER 1
SPEY LITE SKAGIT INTERMEDIATE HEAD Intermediate Light Skagit Head
WEIGHT 150 GRAIN 180 GRAIN 210 GRAIN 240 GRAIN 270 GRAIN 300 GRAIN 330 GRAIN 360 GRAIN 390 GRAIN 420 GRAIN
HEAD LENGTH 3,4M 3,4M 3,7M 4,0M 4,3M 4,7M 5.2M 5.5M 5.9M 6.4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 11,6G 13,6G 15,6G 17,6G 19,4G 21,4G 23,4G 25,4G 27,2G
• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips and large, weighted flies with light two-handed rods • Standalone head designed to be used with shooting line; ideal for trout Spey applications as well as light steelhead and bass • Ultra-short head length works well for casting with limited room behind you • Tip recommendations: 150-210 grains - SONAR leaders 240-300 grains - 8’ UST Tips 330-420 grains - 8’ or 10’ UST Tips ORANGE / HERON • Sink Rate: Intermediate = 1.25 ips • Also works with single-handed rods REAR REAR BELLY FRONT FRONT • For use in moderate and cold climates TAPER 2 TAPER 1 TAPER 2 TAPER 1 • Braided multifilament core 20’
10’
0’
*Full head weight
SPEY LITE SCANDI INTEGRATED Integrated Light Scandi Line
HEAD WEIGHT LENGTH 150 GRAIN 6,1M 180 GRAIN 6,1M 210 GRAIN 6,4M 240 GRAIN 6,7M 270 GRAIN 7,0M 300 GRAIN 7,3M 330 GRAIN 7,6M 360 GRAIN 7,6M 390 GRAIN 8,2M 420 GRAIN 8,2M
TOTAL LENGTH 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 11,7G 13,6G 15,6G 17,5G 19,4G 21,4G 23,3G 25,3 27,2
• Short head for quick casts and line control • Integrated, one-piece floating line reduces hinging on casts and eliminates loop-to-loop connection • Excellent line for swinging streamers and can be used as a dry-fly line with long leaders • Designed for shorter two-handed rods; also works with single-handed rods • Braided multifilament core SHOOTING TEXTURE
WILLOW / BLACK / WILLOW
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
70’
ARP
60’
50’
40’
REAR BELLY TAPER
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
*Full head weight
SPEY LITE SCANDI HEAD Light Scandi Presentation Head
WEIGHT 150 GRAIN 180 GRAIN 210 GRAIN 240 GRAIN 270 GRAIN 300 GRAIN 330 GRAIN 360 GRAIN 390 GRAIN 420 GRAIN
HEAD LENGTH 6,1M 6,1M 6,4M 6,7M 7,0M 7,3M 7,6M 7,6M 8,2M 8,2M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 11,7G 13,6G 15,6G 17,5G 19,4G 21,4G 23,3G 25,3G 27,2G *Full head weight
• Short head for quick casts and line control • Excellent line for swinging soft hackles, light streamers, and can be used as a dry-fly line with long leaders • Longer front taper for lighter, softer presentations • Designed for use with a shooting line on shorter two-handed rods and single-handed rods • Braided multifilament core; for use in moderate and cold climates
BLACK / WILLOW
REAR BELLY TAPER
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
145
DEEP WATER EXPRESS For dredging deep, rapid water • Deep Water Express is heavy sinkin shooting heads developed for rapid, deep water. • One of fly fishing’s fastest-sinking shooting tapers • Quickly gets a fly 20’ or deeper • Use full length or cut to match rod; includes cutting chart GRAY
BROWN 700 GR
• Taper Characteristics: 400 - 550 GR
BLACK 850 GR
• Tapered to promote good turnover at long range WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
GRAM WEIGHT
850 GRAIN
30’ / 9,1M
55,1G
GRAY 400 - 550 GR
REAR TAPER
BROWN 700 GR
BELLY
BLACK 850 GR
FRONT TAPER
ABSOLUTE FLAT MONO REAR Mono Shooting 30’ Line20’
TAPER
10’
BELLY
0’
FRONT TAPER
• Rectangular profile reduces line twist and increases grip in fingers • Hardness is tailored per size for optimal shooting with low memory in any condition SIZE
• Vibrant colors that are easily at distance 30’ tracked 20’ 10’
DIAM.
COLOR
25LB
YELLOW
0,43MM
35LB
ORANGE
0,48MM
42LB
CHARTREUSE
0,55MM
50LB
OPTIC GREEN
0,63MM
0’
• Available in 30m reel fill spools
ULTIMATE SHOOTING LINE Braided Multifilament-Core Shooting Line • Large front loop for quick changes (20cm) • Freshwater and saltwater floating shooting lines for exceptional casting distance • Minimal friction gives high speed shooting • 3,7m handling section • Braided multifilament 25lb core with low stiffness
Flyfisheurope.com
• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
Designed by Flyfish Europe
SIZE
DIAM.
TOTAL LENGTH FT
TOTAL LENGTH M
0,30’’/0,75MM
0.030”
100.0’
33,0M
0,38’’/0,97MM
0.038”
100.0’
33,0M
ULTIMATE RUNNING LINE Super slick silicone/oil double coated mono shooting line Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
• 60 meters 2 in 1 • Individual packages • Super slick double coated mono
TYPE
DIAM.
TOTAL LENGTH FT
TOTAL LENGTH M
IVORY 45LB
0,62MM
196.0’
60,0M
• Solid monofilament core
GREEN 50LB
0,68MM
196.0’
60,0M
• High breaking strength
YELLOW 70LB 0,75MM
196.0’
60,0M
• Designed by Flyfish Europe
• Totaly round mono line
• NOT AN ACTUAL SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS PRODUCT 146
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY: “Every once in a while we come across a unique product that makes our lives a whole lot easier. We recently got our hands on such a product, it’s called the Omnispool Switchbox, and we think it’s a game changer…” Deneki Outdoors ★★★★★ “Fly fishers, this is a great, quality product. Get you some and you won’t be sorry.” Dick C., Professional Guide, Florida ★★★★★ “This super-easy to use line-storage system is very, very clever!” Total Flyfisher Magazine, U.K. ★★★★★
“Exactly what I’ve been looking for! I have many reels, lines, etc. and have been searching for an easy way to remove, clean, store, re-spool. I think I’ve found it with your product.” John M, New Jersey ★★★★★ “Used the Omnispool Switchbox to change lines on the flats and in the surf zone out the back of a flats dry bag, what a pleasure! Guests were all impressed… We are sold on them!” Keith Clover, Director, Tourette Fishing – Pro Guide ★★★★★ “The OmniSpool Switchbox is looking to change your mind about fly line maintenance”. Hatch Magazine, USA ★★★★★
“The Switchbox is elegant simplicity; a clever, well considered design with attention to every aspect of its function. No matter how far you travel, this is a way to carry what you need and to switch lines when you need to — quickly, easily and without needing a second pair of hands”. Fly Life Magazine, Australia ★★★★★ “If you want a cost effective, easy to use storage system you should give the Omnispool Switchbox serious consideration. It has made my life a whole lot more easier”. Pete Tyjas, Eat - Sleep - Fish ★★★★★
EXCLUSIVE EUROPEAN
DISTRIBUTOR
www.flyfisheurope.com Scan to watch instructional video
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
147
FAIL is not an AMPLITUDE WITH AST PLUS “ When chasing the fish of a lifetime, we rarely get more than one shot. Day in and day out in harsh environments, all for that one opportunity. In that moment I have to trust my gear, and my fly line cannot be the weak link. That’s why I use Scientific Anglers fly line. Every cast. Every time.”
- David Mangum, SA Ambassador
scientificanglers.com
LURE n option Featuring AST PLUS for superior Slickness &
2½
TIMES MORE DURABILITY THAN CLOSEST COMPETITOR
• F loating Texture on the tip section for the ultimate in flotation • Shooting Texture running line delivers longer casts • Designed for demanding tropical saltwater • Loads rods quickly, cuts through the wind with ease,
and turns over big saltwater flies • Short, powerful head for quick casts to moving targets • Tropi-Core technology for tropical climates
The Amplitude Series of fly lines features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for the ultimate in slickness and durability. Each line is built with three textures for a reduction in friction, three colors to identify the separate parts of the line, and welded loops for quick and easy rigging. SA Amplitude lines are the culmination of decades of research, testing, and innovation; no finer fly line exists in the world. Amplitude is available in a number of different freshwater- and saltwater-specific tapers, so now you can reach every fish you’re after.
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
SA•ID
AST Plus
Shooting Texture
Floating Texture
TRP
Improved Dry Tip
Welded Loops
Camo Tip
Tropi-Core
100-lb Core
Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com
AM
TROUT AST Plus
TRP
Improved Dry Tip
Welded Loops
S EST
For Delicate Dry-Fly Deliveries to Trout • The very best true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers; front taper is designed for delicate deliveries • Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo • Braided multifilament core
TUD PLI E
• SA AMPLITUDE TROUT WF X F (X = line weight)
ER
E LL
Shooting Floating Texture Texture
E
B
SA•ID
FLY LIN
LINE HEAD TOTAL WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WF-3-F 19,5M 27,4M WF-4-F 20,1M 27,4M WF-5-F 20,7M 27,4M WF-6-F 21,3M 27,4M WF-7-F 21,9M 27,4M
CELESTIAL BLUE / BAMBOO / BLUE HERON (COLOR 2)
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
SHOOTING TEXTURE
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT* 12,6G 6,5G 15,6G 7,8G 19,4G 9,1G 22,0G 10,4G 26,2G 12,0G
RUNNING LINE
MOSS / MIST GREEN / WILLOW (COLOR 1)
SHOOTING TEXTURE
REAR TAPER
BELLY 2
FLOATING TEXTURE
BELLY 1
FRONT FRONT TAPER TAPER 2 1
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
0’
AST Plus
TRP
Improved Dry Tip
FLY LIN
TOTAL LENGTH 25,9M 25,9M 25,9M 25,9M 25,9M
Welded Loops
For Delicate Dry-Fly Deliveries to Trout • The very best true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers; front taper is designed for delicate deliveries • Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo • For use in moderate and cold climates • Braided multifilament core
LE R
SE L
ST BE
LINE BELLY WEIGHT LENGTH DT-2-F 23,3M DT-3-F 22,9M DT-4-F 22,4M DT-5-F 21,9M DT-6-F 21,5M
SA•ID
TAP BLE ER
E
DOU
DOUBLE TAPER
• SA AMP DOUBLE TAPER DT X F (X = line weight) Shooting Floating Texture Texture
GRAIN WEIGHT* 80 100 120 140 160 90’
150
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
FLOATING TEXTURE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
REAR TAPER
BELLY
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
MIST GREEN / LEATHER / BUCKSKIN
FLOATING TEXTURE
FRONT TAPER
30’
20’
10’
0’
INFINITY SA•ID
AST Plus
The Go-To Line for All Freshwater Species
Welded Loops
• Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, panfish, bass, carp, steelhead, salmon, and pike TRP
Improved Dry Tip
%(67 2) 6+2: )/< /,1( )5(6+:$7(5 '(19(5 &2
• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions • Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability
Floating Texture
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
SHOOTING TEXTURE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
FLOATING TEXTURE
BAMBOO / BUCKSKIN / CAMO
ES
REAR TAPER 2
REAR TAPER 1
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
E
RUNNING LINE
FR
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-3-F 14,3M 27,4M 10,0G 7,1G WF-4-F 14,6M 27,4M 12,3G 8,4G WF-5-F 14,9M 27,4M 14,6G 9,7G WF-6-F 15,2M 27,4M 16,8G 11,3G WF-7-F 15,5M 27,4M 19,8G 13,0G WF-8-F 15,8M 27,4M 22,7G 14,6G WF-9-F 16,1M 27,4M 26,9G 16,8G
• SA AMP INFINITY WF X F (X = line weight)
HW
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
IN
Shooting Texture
AT E R F LY
L
90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
0’
MPX SA•ID
AST Plus
Welded Loops
Mastery Presentation Taper • Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability • The ultimate general presentation line
AM
TRP
LINE WEIGHT WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F WF-9-F
• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods
TUD PLI E
SE EST
LLE
E
B
Improved Dry Tip
FLY LIN
• Best for large dry flies, nymphs, and streamers R
• For use in moderate and cold climates Shooting Texture
Floating Texture
• Braided multifilament core • SA AMPLITUDE MPX WF X F (X line weight)
HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 9,9M 27,5M 7,7G 7,1G 9,9M 27,5M 9,2G 8,4G 11,OM 27,5M 11,2G 9,7G 11,OM 27,5M 13,7G 11,3G 12,1M 27,5M 16,8G 13,0G 12,5M 27,5M 19,8G 14,6G 12,9M 27,5M 22,4G 16,8G
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
SHOOTING TEXTURE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
FLOATING TEXTURE
OPTIC GREEN / MOSS / BUCKSKIN
RUNNING LINE
90’
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
80’
70’
REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
BELLY 2
30’
BELLY 1
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
BIG WATER TAPER SA•ID
AST Plus
100-lb Core
For the Biggest Fish in the Biggest Water • Built one size heavy to load quickly and deliver the biggest flies to the furthest targets; use designated line weight for your rod • Specially designed for tropical environments
Tropi-Core
TRP
Shooting Floating Texture Texture
• Built on a 100-lb. core; ideal for tarpon, GTs, tuna, billfish, and arapaima in harsh tropical environments + Comes with 100lb braided add on loops • SA AMPLITUDE BWT WF X F
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-11-F 9,9M 32,0M 32,4G 24,6G WF-12-F 9,9M 32,0M 35,6G 28,8G
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
SHOOTING TEXTURE
SHOOTING TEXTURE
FLOATING TEXTURE
BLACK / SURF / SAND
*Gram weight for the first 30' (9,14m) SIGHTER
100’
RUNNING LINE
90’
80’
70’
REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
30’
REAR BELLY
20’
FRONT BELLY
10’
FRONT TAPER
0’
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We took our revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive and put it into the brand-new Amplitude Smooth Series. These lines are smooth like traditional lines, but have increased durability and slickness due to the AST Plus, which is mixed directly into our coatings. Each line is built with three colors to identify the separate parts of the line, and welded loops for quick and easy rigging. SA Amplitude Smooth lines are simply the finest smooth fly lines in the world and are available in a number of freshwater- and saltwater-specific tapers.
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
SA•ID
AST Plus
Improved Dry Tip
Welded Loops
TropiCore
Camo Tip
Floating Texture
Tactile Referende Point
Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com
TROUT
Welded Loops
For Delicate Dry Fly Deliveries to Trout
AST Plus
SA•ID
• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo • The best smooth, true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers
Improved Dry Tip
• Elongated front taper is designed for delicate presentations • For use in moderate and cold climates • Braided multifilament core
LINE WEIGHT WF-2-F WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F
HEAD LENGTH 19,5M 19,5M 20,1M 20,7M 21,3M 22,0M
TOTAL LENGTH 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M
• SA AMP SMTH TROUT WF X F (X = line weight)
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT* 11,0G 5,2G 12,6G 6,5G 15,6G 7,8G 19,4G 9,1G 22,0G 10,4G 26,2G 12,0G
CELESTIAL BLUE / BAMBOO / BLUE HERON
RUNNING LINE
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
90’
80’
REAR TAPER
70’
60’
BELLY 2
50’
40’
BELLY 1
30’
FRONT FRONT TAPER TAPER 2 1
20’
10’
0’
ART SA•ID
AST Plus
Floating Texture
A smooth freshwater allrounder • Half-size heavy to load rods quickly • Powerful taper helps to turn over long dry-fly leaders and deliver nymphs and small streamers
AM
Welded Loops
STS
ER E LL
FLY LIN
• Great for single-handed spey casting • Three-tone super-stealthy colors with camouflage tip for wary fish
TUD PLI E
E
BE
Camo Tip
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
• Floating texture on the tip for higher flotation • Braided multifilament for cold water applications • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
LINE WEIGHT WF-2-F WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F
HEAD LENGTH 9,4M 9,8M 10,2M 10,6M 10,6M 11,0M
TOTAL LENGTH 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT* 6,4G 5,8G 7,7G 7,1G 9,2G 8,4G 11,1G 9,7G 12,8G 11,3G 15,2G 13,0G
• SA AMP SMTH ART WF X F (X = line weight)
FLOATING TEXTURE
MOSS / DARK OLIVE / DARK OLIVE - BAMBOO
RUNNING LINE
REAR TAPER
BELLY
FRONT FRONT TAPER TAPER 2 1
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 100’
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
0’
DYNAMIC SA•ID
AST Plus
For delicate dry fly deliveries • Designed for handling dries and nymph patterns • Powerful front taper turns over long leaders
AM
Welded Loops
• Excellent line control in close or at distance • Taper designed to handle both overhead casts and spey casts • Stealth color in front for skittish fish
TUD PLI E LE R
EL STS
E
BE
Floating Texture
FLY LIN
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
• Floating texture on tip for higher flotation • Braided multifilament core • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
LINE WEIGHT WF-2-F WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F
HEAD LENGTH 11,8M 12,3M 12,8M 13,3M 13,3M 13,6M 13,6M
TOTAL LENGTH 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
HEAD WEIGHT 7,0G 9,0G 10,9G 12,9G 14,9G 17,3G 19,8G
AFTM WEIGHT* 5,2G 6,5G 7,8G 9,1G 10,4G 12,0G 13,6G
• SA AMP SMTH DYNAMIC WF X F (X = line weight)
FLOATING TEXTURE
BAMBOO / SATIN ORANGE / BROWN
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
70’
REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
BELLY
30’
FRONT TAPER 2
20’
10’
FRONT TAPER 1
0’
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
INFINITY SA•ID
AM
Welded Loops
LINE WEIGHT WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F WF-9-F
HEAD LENGTH 14,3M 14,6M 15,0M 15,3M 15,6M 15,9M 16,2M
Improved Dry Tip
TUD PLI E
STS
LE R
FLY LIN
Camo Tip
TOTAL LENGTH 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M
HEAD WEIGHT 10,0G 12,3G 14,6G 17,2G 19,8G 22,7G 26,9G
The go-to line for freshwater gamefish • Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, carp, steelhead, salmon, and pike (dry flies, nymphs, streamers) • Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions • Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability • Available in two color schemes: standard and camo; the camo scheme features a mottled front taper for increased stealth
EL
E
BE
AST Plus
• For use in moderate and cold climates AFTM WEIGHT* 7,1G 8,4G 9,7G 11,3G 13,0G 14,6G 16,8G
• Braided multifilament core • SA AMP SMTH INFNTY WF X F (X = line weight) BAMBOO / BUCKSKIN / CAMO
RUNNING LINE
90’
80’
70’
REAR TAPER 2
60’
50’
REAR TAPER 1
40’
BELLY
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
OPTIC GREEN / MIST GREEN /BUCKSKIN
0’
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
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NEW
VPT 2.0 AST Plus
SA•ID
Excellent line control up close- or at a distance • Perfect for delicate dry-fly presentations • Great for roll casts and spey casts
Welded Loops
Floating Texture
• Excellent line control up-close or at a distance • Floating textured tip for high flotation • 8` vibrant color handling section for extended line control
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
WF-2-F WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F
11,9M 12,6M 13,0M 13,4M 13,4M 13,7M 13,7M
30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
• Stealth color on head • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT*
-
5,5G 6,8G 8,1G 9,4G 10,7G 12,3G 14,3G
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
NEW
CREEK TROUT AST Plus
SA•ID
Ideal for Small Creeks and Short Casts • Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability
Welded Loops
Improved Dry Tip
• Short-head design with handling line delivers flies at short-tomedium range with extended line control; Built full size heavy • Turns over weighted nymphs and streamers, yet offers light presentations when used with long leaders • Taper design based on the popular SBT lines, only with a longer handling section.
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
WF-3-F WF-4-F WF-5-F WF-6-F
6,7M 7,0M 7,3M 7,6M
27,4M 27,4M 27,4M 27,4M
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT*
7,8G 9,1G 10,4G 12,0G
• SA AMP S CREEK TROUT WF X F (X = line weight)
7,8G 9,1G 10,4G 12,0G
MOSS / LEATHER / WILLOW
RUNNING LINE
HANDLING LINE
REAR BELLY TAPER
FRONT TAPER
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
NEW
STILLWATER INDICATOR AST Plus
SA•ID
Welded Loops
Improved Dry Tip
0’
For Reservoirs and Stillwater Fisheriet • Long rear taper for extended line control and longdistance casting; the best nymphing taper we offer • For nymphing up trout or swinging flies for steelhead and salmon; excellent for double-nymph rigs or hopper-droppers • The stillwater indicator version, features alternating high viz color bands at the tip, for easy tracking and strike detection • Overweighted by 1.5 sizes to assist in turning over heavy rigs; use designated line weight for your rod. For use in moderate and cold climates
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F
18.3M 18.3M 18,6M 18,9M
30,5M 30,5M 30,5M 30,5M
HEAD AFTM WEIGHT WEIGHT*
21,1G 23,0G 26,2G 29,5G
• SA AMP SMTH ANADRO WF X F
11,3G 13,0G 14,6G 16,8G
ORANGE / WILLOW / ORANGE/OPTIC GREEN ANADRO/NYMPH INDICATOR
MOSS / WILLOW / ORANGE ANADRO/NYMPH
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) RUNNING LINE
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
100’
90’
80’
REAR TAPER
70’
60’
50’
BELLY
40’
30’
20’
FRONT BELLY
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
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The SA SONAR Series was designed by anglers for anglers. Built for exploring every inch of the water column, the SONAR Series features sinking heads, full sinking lines, and even custom-cut lines for getting down as deep as you need. Constructed with our AST slickness additive, SONAR sinking technology, SA•ID line identification system, and Welded Loops, the SONAR Series is a technologically advanced set of sinking lines, built for fish of all species. Fresh or salt water, it doesn’t matter. We have a SONAR built for the fish you’re after.
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
AST
SA•ID
SONAR
Welded Loops
Tropi-Core
100-lb Core
Shooting Texture
Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com
TITAN BIG WATER TAPER MAX SINK SA•ID
Sonar
Fast Sinking Line for Big Game • Loads quickly and delivers the biggest flies to the furthest targets • Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head
AST
Shooting Texture
• Specially designed for tropical environments • Shooting Texture reduces friction, providing longer casts, easier pick-up, and increased durability • Intermediate running line with fast-sinking head • Sink Rate: Sink 6 = 5.0 - 7.0 ips
100-lb Core
• Built on a 100-lb. core. Comes with 100lb braided add on loops
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 500 GR 9,5M 32,0M 34,4G 32,4G 11-13WT 600 GR 9,5M 32,0M 40,0G 38,9G 12-14 WT 700 GR 9,5M 32,0M 48,2G 45,4G 13-15 WT
• SA SONAR BWT MAX WF ### (# = grain weight) SHOOTING TEXTURE
SURF / BLACK
RUNNING LINE
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 100’
90’
80’
REAR TAPER
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
BELLY
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
TITAN BIG WATER TAPER SA•ID
Sonar
Slow Sinking Line for Big Water • Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head. Overweighted for loading quickly and delivering big flies to distant targets
AST
100-lb Core
Shooting Texture
Tropi-Core
• Specially designed for tropical environments; built specifically to withstand large game such as GTs, tuna, and billfish • Built on a 100-lb. core; this is the strongest line on the market, by far (Comes with 100lb braided add on loops) • Floating running line with intermediate sinking head. Sink Rate: Intermediate = 1.25 ips • SA SONAR BWT INT WF ### FI (# = grain weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 350 GR 32,0M 32,4G 22,7G 10,1M 9 - 11 WT 450 GR 32,0M 10,1M 35,6G 29,2G 10-12 WT
SHOOTING TEXTURE
CONCH TAN / SURF
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
RUNNING LINE
100’
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
90’
80’
REAR REAR TAPER BELLY
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
FRONT BELLY
20’
10’
FRONT TAPER
0’
SA•ID
TITAN BIG WATER TAPER BLUEFIN TUNA
Sonar
Intermediate Line for Big Game - 1.25 ips AST
• A special production for FFE for the Mediterranean bluefin tuna fishery out of France, Croatia and Italy.
Welded Loops
• This line is built on an 80 pound strength core so strong enough to handle large fish and heavy drag pressure. @ • The coating and core are formulated for cooler water and air temperatures, not tropical. • Floating running line and back of head with 15ft intermediate sink tip • SA SONAR BWT BT WF ### FI (# = grain weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-15-F/I 9,4M 32,0M 36,9G 35,6G
HORIZON / PALE GREEN
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
REAR TAPER
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
BELLY
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
CAMO INTERMEDIATE SA•ID
Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface Fishing
Sonar
• Based on our popular Infinity Salt taper • Made half size heavy for larger flies and windy days AST
• Full intermediate, coldwater coating over camoflauge core for stealthy presentations with minimal memory in cold to medium waters
Welded Loops
• Sink rate: 1.25 IPS (intermediate) • SA SONAR CAMO INT WF XX I (X = line weight) LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-8-I 14,9M 32,0M 21,4G 14,6G WF-9-I 15,2M 32,0M 25,6G 16,8G WF-10-I 15,5M 32,0M 30,8G 19,8G
CAMO
RUNNING LINE
REAR TAPER 2
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 100’
90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
REAR TAPER 1
40’
BELLY
30’
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
SONAR MUSKY SA•ID
Sonar
AST
Welded Loops
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD GRAINS WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 350 GR 9-10 WT 7,6M 27,4M 22,7G 350 400 GR 10-12 WT 7,6M 27,4M 25,9G 400 450 GR 11-13 WT 9,1M 27,4M 29,3G 450 500 GR 11-13 WT 9,1M 27,4M 32,4G 500
Powerful Fast Sinking Musky Taper • Powerful head to turn over extremely large flies • Reinforced loops • Oversized running line for increased line management and positive strip sets. • Intermediate running line and Sink 5 head works well for lakes and rivers • For use in moderate climates • Braided multifilament core • SA SONAR MUSKY XXX GR (# = grain weight)
NEW NEW
NORTHWOODS GREEN / CHARCOAL
RUNNING LINE
REAR TAPER
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
*Grains weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 90’
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
0’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
157
TITAN FULL INTERMEDIATE SA•ID
CO
AST
STS
• The SONAR Titan Full Intermediate fly line is designed to manhandle even the largest flies, and with its intermediate density, it allows you to fish your most heinous flies just below the surface. Right where they need to be • Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head • Slow sink rate gets flies just below the surface • For temperate climates • Braided multifilament core • Sink Rate: 1.25 ips (Intermediate) • SA SONAR TITAN WF X I (X = line weight)
Welded Loops
ER
E LL
E
BE
ASTAL
Slow-Sinking for Streamer Fishing
Sonar
FLY LIN
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-6-I 10,2M 32,0M 14,7G 14,6G WF-7-I 10,2M 32,0M 17,2G 17,2G WF-8-I 10,2M 32,0M 19,4G 19,4G WF-9-I 10,2M 32,0M 23,3G 23,3G WF-10-I 10,2M 32,0M 26,5G 26,6G WF-11-I 10,2M 32,0M 33,0G 33,0G WF-12-I 10,2M 32,0M 34,6G 34,7G
BLUE / PALE GREEN
RUNNING LINE
100’
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
90’
80’
REAR TAPER
70’
60’
50’
40’
BELLY 2
30’
BELLY FRONT 1 TAPER
20’
10’
0’
STILLWATER CLEAR CAMO SA•ID
BE
ISHING EF
STS
• Designed for the unique demands of stillwater angling, the Clear Camo simply disappears beneath the surface, and features a slow, intermediate sink rate to tempt fish sitting just below the chop. • Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers • Based on popular MPX taper • Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders • Full intermediate (1.25 ips) line over camouflage core for the ultimate in stealth • Features all-new supple clear material for reduced memory • SA STILLWATER CAMO WF X I (X = line weight)
Welded Loops
ER
E LL
FLY
E
LAK
Camo Tip
Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface Fishing
Sonar
LIN
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-4-I 10,8M 32,0M 11,2G 9,1G WF-5-I 11,4M 32,0M 13,4G 10,4G WF-6-I 12,0M 32,0M 16,1G 12,0G WF-7-I 12,6M 32,0M 18,8G 13,6G WF-8-I 13,3M 32,0M 22,1G 15,6G
CAMO
RUNNING LINE
100’
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
90’
80’
70’
60’
REAR TAPER
50’
40’
BELLY 2
30’
BELLY 1
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
PARABOLIC SINK SA•ID
Sonar
ARP
Sinks in a U-Shaped Profile • Overweighted by two line weights for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod. Features 10-foot and 20-foot textured hang markers
AST
Shooting Texture
Welded Loops
Seamless Density
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 32,0M WF-5-S 10,8M 13,9G 12,0G 32,0M 15,9G 13,6G WF-6-S 10,8M 32,0M 17,8G 15,6G WF-7-S 10,8M 32,0M 20,7G 18,1G WF-8-S 10,8M
• Seamless Density technology provides a smooth transition between densities, eliminates hinging, and provides a straight-line connection to the fly • Sinking in a U-shaped profile, this line features a Sink 3 running line, Sink 5 head, and a Sink 3 tip • This line sinks faster in the middle to move the fly in a U-shaped retrieve, which is great for triggering strikes
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
RUNNING LINE
100’
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
20FT HANG 10FT HANG MARKER/ MARKER/ SHOOTING SHOOTING TEXTURE TEXTURE
• SA SD PRBLC WF X S# S# S# (X = line weight; # = sink rate)
90’
80’
70’
REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
30’
BELLY 2
BELLY 1
20’
10’
DARK GREEN / CHARCOAL / DARK GREEN
FRONT TAPER
0’
CLEAR EMERGER TIP For Fishing Flies in or Near the Surface SA•ID
Sonar
• Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers • Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod
AST
Welded Loops
• 5-foot clear intermediate tip (1.25 ips) with floating running line and head for fishing flies just below the surface • Features all-new supple clear material for reduced memory • Monofilament core; for use in moderate and cold climates • SA STLLWTR EMERG TIP WF X FI (X = line weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-6-F/I 12,OM 32,0M 16,2G 12,0G WF-7-F/I 12,7M 32,0M 18,8G 13,6G WF-8-F/I 13,3M 32,0M 22,0G 15,6G
ORANGE / LIGHT OLIVE / CLEAR
RUNNING LINE
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m) 100’
90’
80’
70’
REAR TAPER
60’
50’
40’
BELLY 2
30’
BELLY 1
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
SONAR TITAN TRIPLE DENSITY SA•ID
Sonar
AST
Shooting Texture
Triple-Density Line for Throwing Big Streamers • Two line sizes heavy for loading quickly and delivering the biggest flies to the furthest targets; use designated line weight for your rod
ALL
• For use in moderate and cold climates; braided multifilament core
STS
ER
E LL
• Sink Rates:
Sink 5 = 4.5 – 5.5 ips Hover = 1.00 ips Sink 6 = 5.5 - 6.5 ips Sink 2 = 1.5 – 2.5 ips Sink 7 = 6.5 – 7.5 ips Sink 4 = 3.5 - 3.5 ips
E
BE
ROUND
FLY LIN
Welded Loops
• SA SONAR TITAN WF X DENSITY (X = line weight) SHOOTING TEXTURE
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-6-S 10,2M 32,0M 14,9G 13,6G WF-7-S 10,2M 32,0M 17,2G 15,6G WF-8-S 10,2M 32,0M 20,1G 18,1G WF-9-S 10,2M 32,0M 23,7G 21,4G WF-10-S 10,2M 32,0M 27,2G 24,6G WF-11-S 10,2M 32,0M 32,4G 29,2G WF-12-S 10,2M 32,0M 35,6G 32,4G
HOVER INTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE INTERMEDIATE SINK 3
SINK 2 SINK 2 SINK 3 SINK 3 SINK 5
SURF / BLUE / CHARCOAL (HOVER / SINK 2 / SINK 4
SINK 4 SINK 3 SINK 5 SINK 6 SINK 7
PALE GREEN / BLUE / DARK GREEN (INT / SINK 2 / SINK 3)
PALE GREEN / OLIVE / CHARCOAL (INT / SINK 3 / SINK 5)
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
HANDLING LINE
70’
60’
50’
REAR TAPER
40’
BELLY 2
30’
20’
BELLY FRONT 1 TAPER
10’
0’
Taper diagram is based on equivalent float density. Actual diameters of sinking portions will be smaller.
PALE GREEN / DARK GREEN / BROWN (INT / SINK 3 / SINK 6)
OLIVE / CHARCOAL / BLACK (SINK 3 / SINK 5 / SINK 7)
*Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)
SEAMLESS DENSITY
STILLWATER SEAMLESS DENSITY
SINK 25 COLD
Based on the Popular MPX Taper
Sinking-Head Fly Line for Cold Water
For Fishing Flies Just Below the Surface Film
• 25’ extra-fast sinking head with handling line • An excellent streamer line - perfect for wading • Low-tangle design increases shooting distance • Floating running line • Super Fast Sink: 4.0 - 8.0 ips, sinks 4’ - 15’
• Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers • Based on our popular MPX taper • Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod • Extra-slow sinking hover (1 ips) for fishing the film
S5/S7 S3/S5
S1/S3
• Overweighted by two line weights for multiple flies and long leaders • Features 10’ and 20’hang markers
LINE WEIGHT WF-4-S
HEAD LENGTH 10,8M
TOTAL LENGTH 32,0M
GRAM WEIGHT* 10,4G 12,0G
WF-5-S
10,8M
32,0M
WF-6-S
10,8M
32,0M
13,6G
WF-7-S
10,8M
32,0M
15,6G
WF-8-S
10,8M
32,0M
18,1G
WF-5-S
10,8M
32,0M
12,0G
WF-6-S
10,8M
32,0M
13,6G
WF-7-S WF-8-S
10,8M 10,8M
32,0M 32,0M
15,6G 18,1G
WF-7-S
10,8M
32,0M
15,6G
WF-8-S
10,8M
32,0M
18,1G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
STILLWATER HOVER
LINE HEAD TOTAL WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH 150 GR 5-6 WT 7,6M 32,0M 200 GR 6-7 WT 7,6M 32,0M 250 GR 7-8 WT 7,6M 32,0M 300 GR 8-9 WT 7,6M 32,0M 350 GR 9-10 WT 7,6M 32,0M 400 GR 11-12 WT 7,6M 32,0M 450 GR 12-13 WT 7,6M 32,0M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,7G 13,0G 16,2G 19,4G 22,7G 25,9G 29,2G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL AFTM LENGTH WEIGHT*
WF-4-H
10,8M
32,0M
9,1G
WF-5-H
11,4M
32,0M
10,4G
WF-6-H
12,0M
32,0M
12,0G
WF-7-H
12,6M
32,0M
12,3G
WF-8-H
13,3M
32,0M
15,6G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
159
HIGH-QUALITY SMOOTH LINES
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
AST
SA•ID
Improved Dry Tip
Welded Loops
Tropi-Core
For years, SA Mastery Series lines have been among our most-popular and best-performing lines. While some things have changed, one thing hasn’t: Mastery Series lines still deliver just as well as—if not better than—they ever have before. With our AST slickness additive, Dry-Tip technology, color change at the rear of the head, and SA•ID identification system, Mastery lines are still the best smooth lines at their price point on the market. From dry-fly purists to tarpon-chasing poon hounds, the Mastery Series from SA provides every angler the lines they need to catch the fish they crave.
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FLY LIN
EXPERT DISTANCE
The Go-To-Line for All Freshwater Species
Quick-Loading Floating Taper for Big Flies
Distance-Casting Taper
• Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, panfish, bass, carp, steelhead, salmon, and pike
• Built two sizes heavy to load quickly and deliver the biggest flies to the furthest targets • Loads quickly and delivers the biggest flies to the furthest targets • Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head and short front taper • Ideal line for boat or wade fishing • For temperate climates • Braided multifilament core • SA MS TTN WF X F (X = line weight)
• Extra-long head and tapers for longdistance casting
• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions • Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability • Excellent for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers • For use in moderate and cold climates • Braided multifilament core • SA MS INFNTY WF X F (X = line weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-3F 14,3M 27,4M 10,OG 7,1G WF-4-F
14,6M
27,4M
12,3G
8,4G
WF-5-F
14,9M
27,4M
14,6G
9,7G
WF-6-F
15,2M
27,4M
17,2G
11,3G
WF7-F
15,5M
27,4M
19,8G
13,0G
WF-8-F
15,8M
27,4M
22,2G
14,6G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
160
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-5F 10,2M 27,4M 13,9G 12,0G WF-6-F
10,2M
27,4M
14,9G
13,6G
WF-7-F
10,2M
27,4M
17,2G
15,6G
WF-8-F
10,2M
27,4M
20,1G
18,1G
WF-9-F
10,2M
27,4M
23,7G
21,4G
WF-10-F
10,2M
27,4M
27,2G
24,6G
WF-11-F
10,2M
27,4M
32,4G
29,2G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
• Compound head design ensures strong turnover at distance • Ideal line for IFFF casting certification and competition casting LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-5-F 20,8M 36,5M 19,5G 9,0G WF-6-F
21,5M
36,5M
22,1G
10,4G
WF-7-F
22,0M
36,5M
26,1G
12,0G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
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Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
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Designed by Flyfish Europe
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Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
SBT
Versatile Presentation Taper
All-Round Taper
Short Belly Taper
• • • • • •
• Half-size heavy to load rods quickly • Powerful taper helps to turn over long dry-fly leaders and deliver nymphs and small streamers • Great for single-handed Spey casting • Two-tone super-stealthy colors with new camouflage tip for wary fish • Floating texture on tip for higher flotation • Braided multifilament core for cold-water applications • SA MS ART WF X F (X = line weight)
• Short head delivers flies at short-to-medium range with extended line control • Turns over weighted flies, yet offers light presentations • Camo non-spooking tip, • Well suited for single-handed Spey casts • Braided multifilament core • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers • SA ID – SA MS SBT WF X F (X = line weight)
Perfect for delicate dry-fly fishing Floating Textured tip for high flotation Great for roll-casting and soft presentations Excellent line control in close or at a distance Braided multifilament core Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers • SA ID – SA MS VPT WF X F (X = line weight)
FLOATING TEXTURE
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-2-F 12,1M 30,5M 7,1G 5,2G
RUNNING LINE
REAR TAPER
BELLY
FRONT FRONT TAPER TAPER 2 1
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* 100’ 90’ 80’ 70’ 60’ 50’ 40’ 30’ 20’ 10’ 0’ WF-2-F 9,4M 30,5M 6,4G 5,9G
LINE WEIGHT WF-2-F
HEAD LENGTH 6,5M
TOTAL LENGTH 30,5M
AFTM WEIGHT* 6,5G
WF-3-F
12,6M
30,5M
9,2G
6,5G
WF-3-F
9,8M
30,5M
7,7G
7,2G
WF-3-F
6,8M
30,5M
7,8G
WF-4-F
12,9M
30,5M
11,3G
7,8G
WF-4-F
10,2M
30,5M
9,2G
8,5G
WF-4-F
7,1M
30,5M
9,0G 10,4G
WF-5-F
13,4M
30,5M
13,9G
9,0G
WF-5-F
10,6M
30,5M
11,1G
9,8G
WF-5-F
7,4M
30,5M
WF-6-F
13,7M
30,5M
16,0G
10,4G
WF-6-F
10,6M
30,5M
12,8G
11,2G
WF-6-F
7,7M
30,5M
11,9,G
WF-7-F
14,3M
30,5M
18,4G
12,0G
WF-7-F
11,0M
30,5M
15,2G
12,8G
WF-7-F
8,0M
30,5M
13,6G
WF-8-F
14,0M
30,5M
20,5G
13,6G
WF-8-F
11,0M
30,5M
17,4G
14,6G
WF-8-F
8,0M
30,5M
15,5G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
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*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
FLY LIN
STANDARD
Floating Dry Fly Line
Mastery Presentation Taper
AFFTA Standard Weight, Mid-Length Head
• Revised compound taper for delicate deliveries
• • • • • • •
• True to line weight • Mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at distance • The caster’s fishing line • Braided multifilament core • For use in moderate and cold climates • SA MASTERY STANDARD WF X F (X = line weight)
• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs and streamers • The ultimate line for chasing trout • Braided multifilament core • SA ID – SA MS TRT WF X F (X = line weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-2-F 19,2M 27,5M 11,1G 5,2G
The ultimate general presentation line Improved version of our GPX taper Best for large dry flies, nymphs, and streamers Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods Braided multifilament core Excellent with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers SA ID – SA MS MPX WF X F (X = line weight)
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-3-F 9,9M 27,5M 7,7G 7,1G
WF-3-F
19,8M
27,5M
12,6G
6,5G
WF-4-F
9,9M
27,5M
9,2G
WF-4-F
20,4M
27,5M
15,4G
7,8G
WF-5-F
11,OM
27,5M
11,2G
9,7G
WF-5-F
21,0M
27,5M
19,5G
9,7G
WF-6-F
11,OM
27,5M
13,7G
11,2G
8,4G
WF-6-F
21,6M
27,5M
22,1G
10,4G
WF-7-F
12,1M
27,5M
16,8G
12,8G
WF-7-F
22,2M
27,5M
26,1G
12,0G
WF-8-F
12,5M
27,5M
19,8G
14,5G
WF-9-F
12,9M
27,5M
22,4G
16,8G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
LINE HEAD TOTAL HEAD AFTM WEIGHT LENGTH LENGTH WEIGHT WEIGHT* WF-3-F 13,7M 27,4M 9,1G 100 WF-4-F 14,6M 27,4M 12,3G 120 WF-5-F 16,5M 27,4M 15,6G 140 WF-6-F 54.0’ 27,4M 18,8G 160 WF-7-F 18,0M 27,4M 22,7G 185 WF-8-F 18,3M 27,4M 26,6G 210 *Gram weight for the first 9,14m
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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DT
DTD
Double Taper Line for Delicate Work at Short Range
Double Taper Dual
Built to FIPS Mouche Standards
• Double-taper lines are extra-delicate for subtle presentations • Excels in short-to-medium distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs • The ultimate fly line for chasing trout in close quarters • Braided multifilament core • SA ID – SA MS TRT DT X F (X = line weight)
• Popular Ultra 4 front taper on one end for diverse fishing situations • Modified VPT front taper on the other end for delicate dry-fly fishing • Looped on both ends, makes changing tapers quick and easy • Braided multifilament core • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
• Ultra-thin level-line design for premium performance and sensitivity
LINE WEIGHT DT-2-F
BELLY LENGTH 24,8M
TOTAL LENGTH 27,4M
GRAIN WEIGHT* 5,2G
DT-3-F
24,4M
27,4M
DT-4-F
24,0M
27,4M
DT-5-F
23,5M
27,4M
DT-6-F
23,0M
27,4M
LINE WEIGHT DT-2-F
HEAD LENGTH N/A
TOTAL LENGTH 27,5M
GRAM WEIGHT* 5,2G
6,5G
DT-3-F
N/A
27,5M
6,5G
7,8G
DT-4-F
N/A
27,5M
7,8G
9,0G
DT-5-F
N/A
27,5M
9,1G
10,4G
DT-6-F
N/A
27,5M
10,4G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
COMPETITION NYMPH
• For use with rods 0- through 5-weight • Meets FIPS Mouche competition specifications • For use in moderate and cold climates
LINE WEIGHT 0-5 FLOAT
HEAD LENGTH N/A
TOTAL LENGTH 24,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* N/A
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
“
After 25 years with my fly rod along the coast, I have developed very clear thoughts about how I’d like my fly line to perform. The line should carry my fly out to the fish with a minimal amount of false casting - in even the worst of conditions. Volantis has exactly what I`m looking for in a fly line for coastal fly fishing.
Runar Kabbe 162
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
- Runar Kabbe
VOLANTIS INTEGRATED
CO
Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish.
LINE WEIGHT WF-5-F WF-6-F WF-7-F WF-8-F WF-5-I WF-6-I WF-7-I WF-8-I
Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers Compact and powerful integrated shooting head for predator species Load rods quickly with minimal false casts Cuts through the wind with ease, and turns over all types of flies Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light • Braided multifilament core, stays supple in cold conditions • Floating running line
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FLY LIN
HEAD LENGTH 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M
Designed by Flyfish Europe
HEAD WEIGHT 14,0G 16,0G 18,0G 20,0G 14,0G 16,0G 18,0G 20,0G
HORIZON / ORANGE / LIGHT GREEN (FLOAT)
TOTAL LENGTH 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M
HORIZON / ORANGE / LIGHT BLUE (INTERMEDIATE)
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
70’
HANDLING LINE
60’
50’
40’
REAR TAPER
30’
BELLY
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
NEW
VOLANTIS INTEGRATED
FULL INTERMEDIATE - CLEAR CAMO Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish. • • • •
Compact and powerful integrated shooting head Load rods quickly with minimal false casts Cut through the wind with ease, and turn over all types of flies Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light conditions • Single-strand monofilament core • Full intermediate line • Designed and developed by Flyfish Europe
Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
LINE WEIGHT WF-5-I WF-6-I WF-7-I WF-8-I
HEAD LENGTH 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M 10,1M
HEADWEIGHT 14,0G 16,0G 18,0G 20,0G
TOTAL LENGTH 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M 32,0M
LIGHT BLUE CAMO / ORANGE / CAMO
RUNNING LINE
100’
90’
80’
70’
HANDLING LINE
60’
50’
40’
REAR TAPER
30’
BELLY
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
0’
VOLANTIS SHOOTING HEAD Designed by- and for Scandinavian seatrout fishermen
SH
• • • • •
BE
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Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers Compact and powerful shooting head for predator species Load rods quickly with minimal false casts Cuts through the wind with ease, and turns over all types of flies Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light • Braided multifilament core, stays supple in cold conditions • Floating running line
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Flyfisheurope.com
Designed by Flyfish Europe
ORANGE / LIGHT GREEN (FLOAT)
LINE WEIGHT ST-5-F
HEAD LENGTH 9,4M
HEAD WEIGHT 14,0G
LINE WEIGHT ST-5-I
HEAD LENGTH 9,4M
HEAD WEIGHT 14,0G
LINE WEIGHT ST-5-FAST-I
HEAD LENGTH 9,4M
HEAD WEIGHT 14,0G
ST-6-F
9,4M
16,0G
ST-6-I
9,4M
16,0G
ST-6-FAST-I
9,4M
16,0G
ST-7-F
9,4M
18,0G
ST-7-I
9,4M
18,0G
ST-7-FAST-I
9,4M
18,0G
ST-8-F
9,4M
20,0G
ST-8-I
9,4M
20,0G
ST-8-FAST-I
9,4M
20,0G
ORANGE / LIGHT BLUE (INTERMEDIATE)
REAR TAPER
30’
BELLY
20’
FRONT TAPER
10’
ORANGE / BLUE (FAST INTERMEDIATE)
0’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
163
WHAT’S YOUR
ENTRY-LEVEL SMOOTH LINES
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:
AST
Welded Loop
Tropi-Core
Welded Loop
AirCel lines are simple, no-frills fly lines designed to get you out on the water without clearing out your bank account. Built without all the bells, whistles, textures, and colors of our more premium offerings, the AirCel series just gets the job done for budget-conscious beginners and thrifty professionals alike.
We are proud to offer the Frequency family of lines: the Trout and Double Tapers, built for precise presentations; the Boost, a half-size heavy taper for handling bigger dries, nymphs, and streamers; the Magnum, an even more powerful line for the largest streamers and poppers; the Saltwater, for fish along the coastlines; along with SinkTip, Full Sink, and Intermediate lines for all your sub-surface needs.
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FLY LIN
TROUT - DT & WF
SINK TIP
INTERMEDIATE
FOR DRY-FLY TROUT PURSUITS
SINKING TIP FLY LINE - 10’ TIP, SINK 3
INTERMEDIATE SINKING LINE - 1.25IPS
• All-around trout fly line • Versatile taper excels with most flies and conditions • Excels in all weather conditions • Mid-length head • Formulated with Advanced Shooting Technology • Braided multifilament core
• deal for streamers and wet flies for trout, steelhead, salmon, in moving water • Fast-sinking 10’ tip sinks flies through the water column • Mid-length head enhances control • Best used in moving water • Sink Rates: 2.5 – 4.0 ips (Type III) • Braided multifilament core
• For chucking streamers in rivers as well, at this price, it would be silly not to get one. • Especially effective for fishing streamers • Thin diameter cuts through wind • Ideal for use in stillwater situations • Mid-length head for enhanced line control • Sink Rate: 1.25 ips (Intermediate) • Braided multifilament core
LINE WEIGHT DT-3-F
HEAD LENGTH 9,8M
TOTAL LENGTH 25,9M
GRAM WEIGHT* 6,5G
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
GRAM WEIGHT*
WF-5-F/S
13,7M
26,0M
DT-4-F
10,4M
25,9M
7,8G
DT-5-F
10,4M
25,9M
9,0G
WF-6-F/S
13,7M
DT-6-F
11,0M
25,9M
10,4G
26,0M
15,5G
7,8G
WF-9-F/S
WF-5-F
12,4M
26,0M
9,0G 11,9G
12,4M
26,0M
13,6G
WF-9-F
12,4M
26,0M
15,5G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
164
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
10,4G
13,7M
26,0M
WF-8-F
26,0M
13,6G
12,4M
10,4G
9,0G
11,0M
12,0G
WF-4-F
26,0M
26,0M
WF-6-I
26,0M
6,5G
26,0M
10,4M
10,4G
26,0M
26,0M
12,4M
WF-5-I
26,0M
13,7M
12,4M
12,4M
9,0G
13,7M
WF-3-F
WF-7-F
HEAD LENGTH
WF-7-F/S WF-8-F/S
WF-6-F
LINE WEIGHT
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
TOTAL LENGTH
GRAM WEIGHT*
WF-7-I
11,0M
26,0M
12,0G
WF-8-I
11,6M
26,0M
13,6G
WF-9-I
11,6M
26,0M
15,5G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
FLY
FRE BE
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AIRCEL
FULL SINKING FLY LINE - SINK 3 & SINK 6
HALF-SIZE HEAVY
GENERAL-PURPOSE FLOATING
• Especially effective for fishing streamers • Thin diameter cuts through wind. Ideal for use in stillwater situations • Front welded loop on Sink 3; Sink 6 includes braided loop connection. Mid-length head for enhanced line control • Sink Rates: 2.5 – 4.0 ips (Sink 3) • Sink Rate: 5.0 – 6.0 ips (Sink 6) • Monofilament core
• Features a mid-length head perfect for nearly all freshwater applications • Excellent general-purpose line • Half-size heavy and more powerful than the Trout taper. Better with larger, heavier flies • Supple and easy to use • Versatile mid-length head • Braided multifilament core
• The original modern floating fly line, now with a front loop • Raised bump in handling section to indicate the ideal place to begin the cast • Braided multifilament core
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
GRAM WEIGHT*
LINE WEIGHT
HEAD LENGTH
TOTAL LENGTH
GRAM WEIGHT*
WF-5-S
10,4M
26,0M
9,0G
WF-3-F
11,6M
26,0M
7,1G
WF-6-S
11,0M
26,0M
10,4G
WF-4-F
11,6M
26,0M
8,4G
WF-7-S
11,0M
26,0M
12,0G
WF-5-F
11,6M
26,0M
9,7G
WF-8-S
11,6M
26,0M
13,6G
WF-6-F
11,6M
26,0M
11,2G
WF-9-S
11,6M
26,0M
15,5G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
WF-7-F
11,6M
26,0M
12,8G
WF-8-F
11,6M
26,0M
14,5G
WF-9-F
11,6M
26,0M
16,8G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
LINE WEIGHT WF-4-F
HEAD LENGTH 12,2M
TOTAL LENGTH 24,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 7,8G
WF-5-F
12,2M
24,4M
9,0G
WF-6-F
12,2M
24,4M
10,4G 12,0G
WF-7-F
12,2M
24,4M
WF-8-F
12,2M
24,4M
13,6G
WF-9-F
12,2M
24,4M
15,5G
DT-3-F
-
24,5M
6,5G
DT-4-F
-
24,5M
7,8G
DT-5-F
-
24,5M
9,1G
DT-6-F
-
24,5M
10,4G 12,0G
DT-7-F
-
24,5M
DT-8-F
-
24,5M
13,6G
DT-9-F
-
24,5M
15,5G
A
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
Flyfisheurope.com
LE SE L
R
ST
Designed by Flyfish Europe
E
BE
IRCEL
FLY LIN
AIRCEL SHORT
WETCEL INT/SINK
QUICK-LOADING FLOATING LINE
GENERAL-PURPOSE FLOATING
GENERAL-PURPOSE SINK TIP LINE
• Weight-forward fly line with a welded loop on the front. Braided multifilament core • Short head design with handling line delivers flies and short to medium range with extended line control - Over weighted by a full line size • Well suited for single-handed Spey casting • Based on Mastery SBT • Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers
• Several different sink rates available to target a variety of species • Sink Rates: • Intermediate = 1.25 ips • Sink 2 = 1.75 – 2.75 ips • Sink 4 = 4.0 – 5.0 ips • Sink 6 = 4.5 – 6.0 ips REAR BELLY FRONT TAPER TAPER • Braided multifilament core • Intermediate on monofilament core
• 12 ft long (3,7m), sink 4 sinking tip • Braided multifilament core for moderate to cold climates • Mid-length head for general fishing situations • Sink Rate - Sink 4 = 4.0 - 5.0 ips
WETCEL SINK TIP4
INTERMEDIATE CLEAR
SINK II BROWN
RUNNING LINE
SINK IV CHARCOAL INTERMEDIATE CLEAR
SINK VI BLACK
80’
LINE WEIGHT WF-3-F
HEAD LENGTH 7,4M
TOTAL LENGTH 24,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 7,8G
WF-4-F
7,4M
24,4M
9,0G
WF-5-F
7,4M
24,4M
10,4G
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
RUNNING LINE
0’
REAR TAPER
BELLY
FRONT TAPER
HEAD LENGTH 12,2M
TOTAL LENGTH 24,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,0G
WF-6-F/S
SINK IV CHARCOAL
12,2M
24,4M
10,4G
WF-7-F/S
12,2M
24,4M
12,0G
WF-8-F/S
12,2M
24,4M
13,6G
SINK VI BLACK
80’
70’
60’
50’
40’
30’
20’
10’
0’
WF-6-F
7,4M
24,4M
12,0G
LINE WEIGHT WF-5-F/S
WF-7-F
7,4M
24,4M
13,6G
WF-6-F/S
12,2M
24,4M
10,4G
WF-8-F
7,4M
24,4M
15,5G
WF-7-F/S
12,2M
24,4M
12,0G
WF-8-F/S
12,2M
24,4M
13,6G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
SINK II BROWN
LINE WEIGHT WF-5-F/S
HEAD LENGTH 12,2M
TOTAL LENGTH 24,4M
GRAM WEIGHT* 9,0G
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
*Gram weight for the first 9,14m
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
165
THINGS THAT SNAP SNAP THINGS THAT
THINGS THINGS THAT THAT DON’T DON’T 40% stronger than the competition. You don’t have to take it from us. We had a 3rd party lab
40% stronger the competition. independently test and than prove that our wet knot strength is 29% stronger than our previous material, and 40% stronger
You don’t have to take it from us. We had a 3rd party lab than the premium competition. independently test and prove that our wet knot strength is 166 FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 29% stronger than our previous material, and 40% stronger than the premium competition.
scientificanglers.com
scientificanglers.com
7.5’ Trout
.61mm
9’ Trout
.61mm
9’ Trout Stealth
.61mm
10’ Trout Stealth Finesse 7.5’ Trout
.56mm .61mm
12’ Trout Stealth9’ Finesse Trout
.56mm .61mm
11’ Trout Presentation 9’ Trout Stealth
.66mm .61mm
10’14’ Trout Stealth Finesse Trout Presentation
.56mm .71mm
12’ Trout Stealth Finesse
.56mm
8’ Bass 11’ Trout Presentation
.76mm .66mm
10’ Bonefish 14’ Trout Presentation
.76mm .71mm
10’ 8’ Permit Bass
.76mm
10’ 10’Saltwater Bonefish
.76mm
10’Redfish Permit 10’
.76mm
2’
4’
6’
8’
10’
12’
14’
2’
4’
6’
8’
10’
12’
14’
The Results Speak for Themselves. 9’10’ Salmon (EU) Saltwater
.76mm
12’ Salmon (EU) 10’ Redfish
.76mm
15’ 9’ Salmon (EU)
.76mm
9’ Salmon/Steelhead 12’ Salmon (EU)
.76mm
7.0lb
7.0lb
6.0lb
6.0lb
3.0lb 2.0lb 1.0lb
WET KNOT STRENGTH
4.0lb
STRAIGHT TENSILE STRENGTH
5.0lb
5.0lb
4.0lb
12’ Salmon/Steelhead 15’ Salmon (EU)
.76mm
3.0lb
12’9’Indicator/Stillwater Salmon/Steelhead
.66mm .76mm
2.0lb
4’ Streamer 12’ Salmon/Steelhead
.76mm .76mm
1.0lb
0.0lb ________________________________________________________________________________________________ .51mm 13.5’ Euro Nymph SA Absolute Trout 5X SA Freshwater 5X .66mm Competitor 1* 12’ Indicator/Stillwater .56mm 9’ Fluorocarbon
Competitor 2*
Competitor 3*
Competitor 4*
0.0lb
Competitor 5*
*Competitive materials in no particular order: Rio Powerflex+, Rio Powerflex, Umpqua, Trouthunter, Trouthunter EVO 12’ Fluorocarbon 4’ Streamer
.56mm .76mm
.56mm 10’ Fluoro Introducing Saltwater Scientific .51mm 13.5’ Euro Nymph 9’ Fluorocarbon
.56mm
12’ Fluorocarbon
.56mm
10’ Fluoro Saltwater
.56mm
2’
2’
Angler’s Absolute Leader and Tippet. stronger competition. 4’ 6’ 40% 8’ 10’ than the 12’ premium 14’ 29% stronger than our previous material. Independent 3rd party lab tested. Proven wet knot strength. Trust the facts. scientificanglers.com 4’
6’
8’
10’
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021 12’ 14’
167
ABSOLUTE Absolute leaders and tippet are made with proprietary copolymer blends that are designed to drastically reduce water absorption while maintaining an optimal suppleness for high knot strength. Absolute nylon leaders and tippet have a 29% higher wet knot strength compared to our previous material and up to 40% higher wet knot strength when compared to our competitors. Absolute fluorocarbon leaders and tippet boast a 15% higher wet knot strength compared to our previous material and features incredible clarity and abrasion resistance.
%(67 2) 6+2: /($'(5 7,33(7 '(19(5 &2
Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com
SIZE
DIAMETER
7X 6X 5X 4X 3X 2X 1X 0X
0.004” / .10 MM 0.005” / .13 MM 0.006” / .15 MM 0.007” / .18 MM 0.008” / .20 MM 0.009” / .23 MM 0.010” / .25 MM 0.011” / .28 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 2.5 LB / 1,1 KG 3.5 LB / 1,6 KG 4.6 LB / 2,1 KG 6.7 LB / 3,0 KG 8.4 LB / 3,8 KG 9.5 LB / 4,3 KG 11.8 LB / 5,4 KG 13.4 LB / 6,1 KG
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON TROUT Fluorocarbon Tippet • Sizes: 7X – 0X • Length: 30m spools in all sizes • 100% fluorocarbon for ultimate stealthy presentations • Supple for drag free drifts
SIZE
DIAMETER
7X 6X 5X 4X 3X 2X 1X 0X
0.004” / .10 MM 0.005” / .13 MM 0.006” / .15 MM 0.007” / .18 MM 0.008” / .20 MM 0.009” / .23 MM 0.010” / .25 MM 0.011” / .28 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 2.4 LB / 1,1 KG 3.5 LB / 1,6 KG 5.9 LB / 2,7 KG 7.4 LB / 3,4 KG 9.0 LB / 4,1 KG 11.2 LB / 5,1 KG 13.9 LB / 6.3 KG 16.0 LB / 7,3 KG
SIZE
DIAMETER
6X 5X 4X 3X
0.005” / .13 MM 0.006” / .15 MM 0.007” / .18 MM 0.008” / .20 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 3.5 LB / 1,6 KG 5.9 LB / 2,7 KG 7.4 LB / 3,4 KG 9.0 LB / 4,1 KG
ABSOLUTE TROUT
ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH
Freshwater Tippet
Freshwater Tippet
• Sizes: 7X – 0X
• Sizes: 6X - 3X
• Length: 30m spools in all sizes
• Length: 30m spools in all sizes
• Supple for drag free drifts
• Supple for drag free drifts
• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
• Light olive tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish
168
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
NEW DIAMETER 0,28MM 0,33MM 0,38MM 0,43MM 0,48MM
NEW
BREAK STRENGTH 13.4LB / 6,1KG 16.0LB / 7,3KG 20.0LB / 9,1KG 26.0LB / 11,8KG 30.0LB / 13,6KG
DIAMETER 0,28MM 0,33MM 0,38MM 0,43MM 0,48MM
BREAK STRENGTH 14.9LB / 6,8KG 20.0LB / 9,1KG 25.0LB / 11,3KG 35.0LB / 15,9KG 40.0LB / 18,1KG
ABSOLUTE
ABSOLUTE
FLUOROCARBON SALMON TIPPET
CLEAR SALMON TIPPET
Fluorocarbon tippet
Nylon tippet
• 30m spools
• 30m spools
• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm
• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm
• Supple for drag free drifts
• Supple for drag free drifts
• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.004'' / 0.10 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0.019'' / 0.47 MM
6X
0.005'' / 0.13 MM
0.019'' / 0.47 MM
3.5 LB / 1,6KG
5X
0.006'' / 0.15 MM
0.021'' / 0.53 MM
4.6 LB / 2,1KG
LENGTH 9’
SIZE 7X
9’ 9’
BREAK STRENGTH 2.5 LB / 1,1KG
9’
4X
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.021'' / 0.53 MM
6.7 LB / 3,0KG
9’
3X
0.008'' / 0.20 MM
0.021'' / 0.53 MM
8.4 LB / 3,8KG
9’
2X
0.009'' / 0.23 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
9.5 LB / 4,3KG
9’
1X
0.010'' / 0.25 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
11.8 LB / 5,4KG
9’
0X
0.011'' / 0.28 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
13.4 LB / 6,1KG
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON
9’
16LB
0.013'' / 0.33 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
16.0 LB / 7,3KG
9’
20LB
0.015'' / 0.38 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
20.0 LB / 9,1KG
Fluorocarbon Tapered Leader
12’
6LB
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
6.0 LB / 2,7KG
12’
8LB
0.008'' / 0.20 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
8.0 LB / 3,6KG
12’
10LB
0.010'' / 0.25 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
10.0 LB / 4,5KG
12’
12LB
0.011'' / 0.28 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
12.0 LB / 5,4KG
12’
16LB
0.013'' / 0.33 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
16.0 LB / 7,3KG
12’
20LB
0.015'' / 0.38 MM
0.022'' / 0.57 MM
20.0 LB / 9,1KG
LENGTH 7.5’
SIZE 6X
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.005'' / 0.13 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0.023'' / 0.58 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 3.5 LB / 1,6KG
7.5’
5X
0.006'' / 0.15 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
5.9 LB / 2,7KG
7.5’
4X
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
7.4 LB / 3,4KG
7.5’
3X
0.008'' / 0.20 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
9.0 LB / 4,1KG
7.5’
2X
0.009'' / 0.23 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
11.2 LB / 5,1KG
7.5’
1X
0.010'' / 0.25 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
13.9 LB / 6,3KG
7.5’
0X
0.011'' / 0.28 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
16.0 LB / 7,3KG
9’
7X
0.004'' / 0.10 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
2.4 LB / 1,1KG
9’
6X
0.005'' / 0.13 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
3.5 LB / 1,6KG
9’
5X
0.006'' / 0.15 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
5.9 LB / 2,7KG
9’
4X
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
7.4 LB / 3,4KG
Our new paper-based Leader packaging is now 100% recyclable. All materials, inks, and window are fully biodegradable to protect our streams and reduce our environmental footprint. Please don’t litter!
ABSOLUTE TROUT Freshwater Tapered Leader • Tapers specifically designed for Trout fishing • Heavy butt diameters for powerful accurate deliveries
9’
3X
0.008'' / 0.20 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
9.0 LB / 4,1KG
• Supple material for drag free drifts
9’
2X
0.009'' / 0.23 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
11.2 LB / 5,1KG
• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
9’
1X
0.010'' / 0.25 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
13.9 LB / 6,3KG
• Available as single and three leader packs
9’
0X
0.011'' / 0.28 MM
0.025'' / 0.64 MM
16.0 LB / 7,3KG
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
169
ABSOLUTE
ABSOLUTE TROUT
TROUT STEALTH
PRESENTATION Freshwater Tapered Leader
Freshwater Tapered Leader
• Large butts to turn over longer length with ease
• Light olive tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish
• Progressive taper delicately delivers fly
• For dry fly and nymph fishing in close quarters
• Supple Material for drag free drifts
• Supple Material for drag free drifts TIPPET DIAMETER 0.004'' / 0.10 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0.023'' / 0.58 MM
6X
0.005'' / 0.13 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
3.5 LB / 1,6KG
5X
0.006'' / 0.15 MM
0.023'' / 0.58 MM
5.9 LB / 2,7KG
4X
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
7.4 LB / 3,4KG
3X
0.008'' / 0.20 MM
0.024'' / 0.61 MM
9.0 LB / 4,1KG
LENGTH 9’
SIZE 7X
9’ 9’ 9’ 9’
BREAK STRENGTH 2.4 LB / 1,1KG
LENGTH 11’ 11’ 11’ 11’ 11’ 11’ 11’ 14’ 14’ 14’
SIZE 6X 5X 4X 3X 2X 1X 0X 5X 4X 3X
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.005'' / 0.13 MM 0.006'' / 0.15 MM 0.007'' / 0.18 MM 0.008'' / 0.20 MM 0.009'' / 0.23 MM 0.010'' / 0.25 MM 0.011'' / 0.28 MM 0.006'' / 0.15 MM 0.007'' / 0.18 MM 0.008'' / 0.20 MM
BUTT BREAK DIAMETER STRENGTH 0.024'' / 0.61 MM 3.5 LB / 1,6KG 0.024'' / 0.61 MM 5.9 LB / 2,7KG 0.025'' / 0.64 MM 7.4 LB / 3,4KG 0.025'' / 0.64 MM 9.0 LB / 4,1KG 0.026'' / 0.66 MM 11.2 LB / 5,1KG 0.026'' / 0.66 MM 13.9 LB / 6,3KG 0.026'' / 0.66 MM 16.0 LB / 7,3KG 0.028'' / 0.71 MM 5.9 LB / 2,7KG 0.028'' / 0.71 MM 7.4 LB / 3,4KG 0.028'' / 0.71 MM 9.0 LB / 4,1KG
NEW
BUTT DIAMETER 0.022'' / 0.56 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 2.4 LB / 1,1KG
SIZE 7X
ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH FINESSE
10’
6X
0.005'' / 0.13 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
3.5 LB / 1,6KG
10’
5X
0.006'' / 0.15 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
5.9 LB / 2,7KG
Freshwater Tapered Leader
10’
4X
0.007'' / 0.18 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
7.4 LB / 3,4KG
12’
7X
0.004’’ / 0.10 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
2.4 LB / 1,1KG
12’
6X
0.005’’ / 0.13 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
3.5 LB / 1,6KG
12’
5X
0.006’’ / 0.15 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
5.9 LB / 2,7KG
12’
4X
0.007’’ / 0.18 MM
0.022’’ / 0.56 MM
7.4 LB / 3,4KG
• Excellent for slack line presentations for long, drag free drifts. • Made with proprietary copolymer blends that are designed to drastically reduce water absorption • Optimal suppleness for high knot strength
NEW LENGTH SIZE 9,0 FT 0,28 MM
ABSOLUTE SALMON LEADER
170
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.004'' / 0.10 MM
LENGTH 10’
TIPPET DIAMETER 0,011” / 0,28 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0,029” / 0,74 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 14,9 LB / 6,8 KG 20,0 LB / 9,1 KG
9,0 FT
0,33 MM
0,013” / 0,33 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM
9,0 FT
0,38 MM
0,015” / 0,38 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 25,0 LB / 11,3 KG
9,0 FT
0,43 MM
0,017” / 0,43 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 35,0 LB / 15,9 KG
9,0 FT
0,48 MM
0,019” / 0,48 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 40,0 LB / 18,1 KG
12,0 FT
0,28 MM
0,011“ / 0,28 MM
0,029” / 0,74 MM
14,9 LB / 6,8 KG
12,0 FT
0,33 MM
0,013” / 0,33 MM
0,029” / 0,76 MM
20,0 LB / 9,1 KG
12,0 FT
0,38 MM
0,015” / 0,38 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 25,0 LB / 11,3 KG
12,0 FT
0,43 MM
0,017” / 0,43 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 35,0 LB / 15,9 KG
Freshwater Tapered Leader
12,0 FT
0,48 MM
0,019” / 0,48 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 40,0 LB / 18,1 KG
• Tapers specifically designed to handle salmon flies or various size and weight
15,0 FT
0,33 MM
0,013” / 0,33 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM
15,0 FT
0,38 MM
0,015” / 0,38 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 25,0 LB / 11,3 KG
• Heavy butt diameters matched to modern salmon lines for powerful, accurate deliveries
15,0 FT
0,43 MM
0,017” / 0,43 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 35,0 LB / 15,9 KG
15,0 FT
0,48 MM
0,019” / 0,48 MM
0,030” / 0,76 MM 40,0 LB / 18,1 KG
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
20,0 LB / 9,1 KG
SIZE 4X 2X 0X
BREAK STRENGTH 6.7 LB / 3,0 KG 0.007” / .18 MM 0.009” / .23 MM 8.8 LB / 4,0 KG 0.011” / .28 MM 11.0 LB / 5,0 KG DIAMETER
ABSOLUTE INDICATOR STILLWATER Freshwater Leader • Hot orange butt section for strike detection
ABSOLUTE TRI-COLOR SIGHTER
Scan to watch product presentation
Freshwater Tippet • Sizes: 4X, 2X, and 0X • Green/White/Orange color • Low memory, high abrasion resistance, maximum knot strength
SIZE 25LB 30LB 35LB 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB
• Short Butt section with long tippet section to sink nymphs quickly and evenly SIZE 4X
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.007” / .18 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0.026” / .66 MM
12’
3X
0.008” / .20 MM
0.026” / .66 MM
9.0 LB / 4,1 KG
12’
2X
0.009” / .23 MM
0.027” / .69 MM
11.2 LB / 5,1 KG
SIZE
DIAMETER
25LB 30LB 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB
0.017” / .43 MM 0.020” / .51 MM 0.024” / .61 MM 0.026” / .66 MM 0.031” / .79 MM 0.035” / .89 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 25 LB / 11,3 KG 30 LB / 13,6 KG 40 LB / 18,1 KG 50 LB / 22,7 KG 60 LB / 27,2 KG 80 LB / 36,3 KG
LENGTH 12’
• Length: 10m spools in all sizes
8,9cm
• Great for indicator fishing stillwater or river for trout
DIAMETER 0.018” / .45 MM 0.019” / .48 MM 0.021” / .53 MM 0.023” / .58 MM 0.025” / .62 MM 0.030” / .77 MM 0.033” / .85 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 25.0 LB / 11,3KG 30.0 LB / 13,6 KG 35.0 LB / 15,9 KG 40.0 LB / 18,1 KG 50.0 LB / 22,7 KG 60.0 LB / 27,2 KG 80.0 LB / 36,3 KG
12,4cm
8,9cm
BREAK STRENGTH 7.4 LB / 3,4 KG
12,4cm
ABSOLUTE
ABSOLUTE
FLUOROCARBON SHOCK
LEADER MATERIAL
Saltwater Fluorocarbon Shock
Saltwater Leader Material
• Length: 3 0m spools in all sizes - Sizes: 25lb – 80lb
• Sizes: 25lb – 80lb
• Extreme abrasion resistance for Saltwater and Predatory fish
• Length: 50m spools in all sizes
• 100% Fluorocarbon
• General Purpose, medium stiff monofilament for leader building
• Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing
• Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing
FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
171
SONAR LEADERS
WILLOW FLOAT
PALE GREEN HOVER
LIGHT BLUE INTERMEDIATE
DARK GREEN SINK 3
CHARCOAL SINK 6
WILLOW FLOAT
PALE GREEN HOVER
LIGHT BLUE INTERMEDIATE
DARK GREEN SINK 3
CHARCOAL SINK 6
Density leaders with welded loops • Floating and sinking leaders for use with double- and singlehanded lines; perfect for trout, steelhead, and bass • Available as a full kit with all densities and a leader wallet • Built on 25-lb. monofilament core
FRONT TAPER
TIP
BUTT
FRONT TAPER
TIP
10’
9’
8’
7’
6’
5’
4’
3’
2’
1’
10’
9’
8’
7’
6’
5’
4’
3’
2’
1’
SINK TYPE FLOAT
• Welded loop on butt end
BUTT
BREAK LENGTH WEIGHT STRENGTH 7’ 35GR 25LB/11,3KG
0’ 0’
SINK RATE -
HOVER
7’
35GR
25LB/11,3KG 2,5CM/S
INTERMEDIATE
7’
35GR
25LB/11,3KG 3,2CM/S
SINK 3
7’
35GR
25LB/11,3KG 7,6CM/S
SINK 6
7’
35 GR
25LB/11,3KG 15,2CM/S
COMPLETE KIT
7’
35 GR
25LB/11,3KG
-
FLOAT
10’
50 GR
25LB/11,3KG
-
HOVER
10’
50 GR
25LB/11,3KG 2,5CM/S
INTERMEDIATE
10’
50 GR
25LB/11,3KG 3,2CM/S
SINK 3
10’
50 GR
25LB/11,3KG 7,6CM/S
SINK 6 COMPLETE KIT
10’ 10’
50 GR 50 GR
25LB/11,3KG 15,2CM/S 25LB/11,3KG -
SONAR SALMON LEADERS Sinking Leaders for anadromous fish • Sinking leaders for use with double-handed lines; perfect for Atlantic salmon, Pacific salmon and steelhead
WILLOW
WILLOW FLOAT
PALE GREEN
PALE FLOAT GREEN HOVER
LIGHT BLUE DARK GREEN INTERMEDIATE
LIGHT BLUE HOVER INTERMEDIATE
DARK GREEN CHARCOAL SINK 3
SINK 3
SINK 6
CHARCOAL SINK 6
• Built on 45-lb. monofilament core • Welded loop on butt end BUTT
FRONT TAPER
BUTT
10’
10’
9’
8’
9’
FRONT TAPER
8’
7’
7’
6’
6’
5’
5’
4’
4’
3’
3’
2’
TIP
TIP
2’
1’
BREAK SINK TYPE LENGTH WEIGHT STRENGTH INTERMEDIATE 10’ 50 GR 45LB/18,1KG
4
1’
0’
0’
SINK RATE 3,2CM/S
SINK 3
10’
50 GR 45LB/18,1KG
SINK 6
10’
50 GR 45LB/18,1KG 15,2CM/S
7,6CM/S
EURO NYMPH KIT For European-Style Nymphing • Convert any single hand fly line to Euro Nymphing setup • Kit includes 10’ floating Euro Nymph tip, Absolute Euro Nymph leader, and foam storage spool.
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“Convert almost any single hand trout rod quickly to a Euro Nymphing setup with this kit. Includes a 6,1m floating Euro Nymph Tip (0.64mm dia), the Absolute Euro Nymph leader, and foam storage spool”.
FRESHWATER Freshwater Tippet • • • • •
Sizes: 7X – 20lb Length: 3 0m spools in all sizes Low memory, high abrasion resistance True-to-spec X sizes Patented cutter spool with freewheeling hub on small spool SIZE
LENGTH
DIAMETER
7X 6X 5X 4X 3X 2X 1X 0X 20 LB
30M 30M 30M 30M 30M 30M 30M 30M 30M
0.004” / .10 MM 0.005” / .13 MM 0.006” / .15 MM 0.007” / .18 MM 0.008” / .20 MM 0.009” / .23 MM 0.010” / .25 MM 0.011” / .28 MM 0.013” / .33 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 2.3 LB / 1,0 KG 3.3 LB / 1,5 KG 4.4 LB / 2,0 KG 6.0 LB / 2,7 KG 8.5 LB / 3,9 KG 9.8 LB / 4,4 KG 12.7 LB / 5,8 KG 14.9 LB / 6,8 KG 20 LB / 9,1 KG
FRESHWATER Freshwater Tapered Leader It’s all well and good to have a quality fly line, but without a good leader, you’re out of luck. Our nylon Freshwater leaders feature a longer, larger butt section for easy turnover. SIZE 6X
TIPPET DIAMETER 0.005” / .13 MM
BUTT DIAMETER 0.017” / .43 MM
BREAK STRENGTH 3.3 LB / 1,5 KG
7.5’
5X
0.006” / .15 MM
0.020” / .50 MM
4.4 LB / 2,0 KG
7.5’
4X
0.007” / .18 MM
0.021” / .53 MM
6.0 LB / 2,7 KG
7.5’
3X
0.008” / .20 MM
0.021” / .53 MM
8.5 LB / 3,9 KG
LENGTH 7.5’
7.5’
2X
0.009” / .23 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
9.8 LB / 4,4 KG
7.5’
1X
0.010” / .25 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
12.7 LB / 5,8 KG
7.5’
0X
0.011” / .28 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
14.9 LB / 6,8 KG
9’
7X
0.004” / .10 MM
0.016” / .41 MM
2.3 LB / 1,0 KG
9’
6X
0.005” / .13 MM
0.017” / .43 MM
3.3 LB / 1,5 KG
9’
5X
0.006” / .15 MM
0.020” / .50 MM
4.4 LB / 2,0 KG
9’
4X
0.007” / .18 MM
0.021” / .53 MM
6.0 LB / 2,7 KG
9’
3X
0.008” / .20 MM
0.021” / .53 MM
8.5 LB / 3,9 KG
9’
2X
0.009” / .23 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
9.8 LB / 4,4 KG
9’
1X
0.010” / .25 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
12.7 LB / 5,8 KG
9’
0X
0.011” / .28 MM
0.022” / .56 MM
14.9 LB / 6,8 KG
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Atlantic Salmon Choosing the Right Fly Line
The Editorial Staff
Rasmus Ovesen, Eirik Fjelldal, Tom Roger Bekkeli
Swinging flies for salmon is an artform in and of itself, and it’s characterized not only by stubborn tradition but also by semi-religious beliefs and notions. A simple fact, however, is that the right fly line makes a huge difference. No mumbo jumbo or magic – it’s just a plain matter of presenting the fly to the fish at the right distance, depth, angle, and speed.
Tom Roger Bekkeli and Eirik Fjelldal are both superexperienced salmon flyfishermen and having been heavily focused on fly lines and how they influence the way a fly is presented in different conditions and circumstances, they have ended up spending countless hours experimenting and testing. As it turns out, developing fly lines – and more specifically – shooting heads that not only cast well but also reach the right depth and angle to ensure the perfect presentation of your fly, isn’t a simple matter. Far from it! We have sat down to have a word with Eirik and Tom 174
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about salmon fishing, about how to choose the right fly line, and about one of their recent line development projects - the Seamless Density fly lines, which have been developed in close cooperation with Scientific Anglers for Scandinavian and North European salmon fishing applications. How would you describe the perfect fly line/shooting head for salmon fishing? Eirik: “In my opinion there is not ONE perfect shooting head that can do it all in salmon fishing - and I doubt there will ever be one. Why? Because the effectiveness of a fly line or shooting head
“
All features in a shooting head must serve a higher purpose and add something that makes it stand out.
Tom Roger Bekkel i
will always be a compromise between mass distribution, line profile design, length, technology and density on the one hand and where I fish, under what conditions I fish, and how I want to present the fly on the other hand. These factors are subject to change all the time and therefore there is only one rule: There is no one line to rule them all. This, at least, is how I think about it. I need different series of lines or different «families of lines». I might want a selection of short lines with different densities to deal with, for example, smaller rivers, deep wading, casting in crammed spots etc. In addition, I might need a selection of longer lines with different densities for bigger rivers, where I have
”
Eirik Fjelldal
good space and need longer distance. Now, the reason I use the word «family of lines» is not coincidental. If I want a system of lines where I can use the different densities in a way that actually makes sense - it’s important to get a system of lines and densities from the same manufacturer, same brand and within the same line family. A Sink 5 line from one manufacturer is not necessarily a sink 5 for the next. I want the different steps in densities to make sense and sink the way I want them to and I want the lines to have the same length on the sink section of FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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be fishing and what type of conditions you’re most likely to encounter. Also do a no-BS assessment on your own casting skills. This is SO important!
“
I have talked to countless fishing guides throughout the years and usually two things seem to go on repeat. One: Their clients would have caught more fish if their casting skills were better. Two: They would have caught more fish if they were more into proficient fishing lines with heavier densities and they actually had them in their fly fishing tool kit. Often these two things are intertwined and we all know the solution of course. Start casting and training with the kit you will be using before going to your fishing destination. Tune yourself in on the casting, get a feel for how your lines behave, and learn to master all densities. I promise, fly fishing will be way much more fun and you will catch more fish.
When I started getting all nerdy about my sinking lines I took a giant leap forward as a salmon fisherman
”
I would go so far to say that what really differentiates really good salmon fishermen from the rest, is their ability to master heavy
Tom Roger Bekkeli on the tracks to another great salmon session. He spends most of his summer chasing salmon all across Norway.
the line. Only then does having a system of shooting heads make sense. Only then can I actively use for example an Intermediate/sink3 line and change over to an Intermediate/Sink5 line and know for sure that I get the properties I need.
density lines and know when and how to apply them to the situation at hand. Of course, local knowledge of the river and fish behavior is important. But yet again, your shooting heads is your most important tool when it comes to induce the take. There you have it in a nutshell - free of charge!
For me having a perfect line in salmon fishing, is about having options within a series of lines. Then I will always have One line that is perfect for the actual conditions and scenarios”.
I can certainly speak for myself and say that when I started getting all nerdy about my sinking lines and learned how to use them, that’s when I took a giant leap forward as a salmon fisherman and started to hook up with more fish. Significantly more fish”!
What is the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a fly line for Atlantic salmon fishing?
How can a fly line help induce the take?
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Tom: “Well, without the right fly line, the angler can’t fish the fly at the right dept with the right speed. One of my favorite things to do is to watch how the salmon react to a fly. If you are lucky
enough to be able to spot a salmon in a pool and having your buddy throw a fly at that fish, you can learn a lot. It’s so exciting to see how salmon change behavior when the same fly is presented in different ways. I’m 100% convinced that the presentation given by the fly line is much more important than the fly pattern. Seeing how a salmon often changes from not being interested to suddenly shooting out like a rocket to grab the same fly because of, for example, increased fly speed is VERY fascinating. Finding the right combination of speed and depth on a given day is what matters”! What are the most important aspects to take into consideration when designing shooting heads for Atlantic salmon inside the European market? Eirik: “My approach to salmon fishing has always been about being the most effective with the least amount of effort. Salmon
Different lines cover different water - and it’s important to be familiar and comfortable with each line in your arsenal.
fishing can be absolutely brutal - many hours and days on end in crap weather, under crap conditions and no takes. Your fly lines should be the tool that helps you and not an obstacle – something that gets in your way and prevents you from performing. It’s about getting that damn fly out where it needs to be and being able to fish it the way you want it. Without 6 blind casts, lots of swearing, and not being able to land that fly on a straight leader... So, it’s about designing lines that are relatively easy to cast and angle, with little effort. It’s about designing lines that sink the way they are supposed to: Lines with a tolerance for wind, big and heavy flies etc. There is a whole specter of things to consider when designing shooting heads. I personally like a shooting head you can just
pull straight out of the box and fish with. Stuff that just works. No cutting or gluing on loops and what not. It’s too much of a hassle. I want to spend my time fishing. All features in a shooting head must serve a purpose and add something to it that makes it stand out”. You have been instrumental in developing the new Scientific Anglers UST SD (Seamless Density) lines. Can you tell a little bit about why and how you’ve developed these lines? Tom: “We started planning these lines at the time when we wrapped up the development, testing, and approval process of the UST Short shooting heads in 2015. With the UST Short lines, we had just finished a big series of shorter shooting heads with cutting edge SD technology and of course our heads started spinning on how we could improve the longer heads on the market using the same SD tech.
Finding the right fishing depth, angle and speed is something Eirik Fjelldal is very adamant about.
“
Hinging will take energy out of the cast and limit how straight the line lands.
”
So, a few years ago, Eirik and I packed our bags with all our experience from earlier projects and traveled to the Scientific Anglers’ plant in Midland Michigan. As usual, we teamed up with the R&D wizard, Josh Jenkins, and started cranking out designs and prototypes. Having the opportunity to travel to the factory and spend several weeks on a project like this is key to success for us. Having Josh and the machines standing by, FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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so we can change and tweak the smallest things from one line to another is priceless. This really allows us to focus on the details to make 100% quality products. Being able to spend time on perfecting everything is pure luxury and it’s thanks to SA that we have this opportunity. For example, spending time on getting rid of an imperfection in the loop like a small wave or hinge is what sets us apart from others. The devil is in the details”!
line. The density gradually changes over a longer section rather than a drastic density change over a short section (mass-per-length).
Can you tell a little bit about why the Seamless Density specifically will help connect with more salmon?
Hinging during the cast will definitely take energy out of the cast and limit how straight the line can land.
Tom: “A long sinking tip will fish much deeper than a short sinking tip in the same density. The trouble with lines with very long sinking tips is that they are really hard to design so they cast well. They tend to hinge a lot making them terrible to cast. Also, a drastic change in “mass-perlength” (grams/ft, grains/ft, grams/cm, etc…) will create a hinge. Take the example of going from float to sink 5. This line would create a really bad hinge because the sink 5 material is denser and because it will likely have the same diameter as the floating section it will hinge and wobble when you cast it. The SD BLEND is a lot better at regulating the transition between densities than traditional 2D or 3D, and we have the ability to extend the transition over a longer part of the
Hinging during casting and hinging during sinking are directly related. A line that has a smooth mass transition and no hinging will tend to sink in a straighter line. Again, this is because there are no drastic changes in mass OR density.
The short version is that the SD section works like a “stabilizer” in the line taking away hinging and bouncing that kills the energy in the loop during a cast. This makes sure that all the energy in the loop goes in the right direction, ensuring longer cast and better presentations”. Any tips on how to fish these lines and how to induce the take? Eirik: “I always have 2-3 rods rigged up with different lines - meaning different densities. How I choose to fish a pool depends very much on the character of the pool, the water temperatures, the water levels, and where I expect the fish to be holding etc. Under more normal conditions, I usually first cover the pool with a close-to-the-surface type of line, to see if I can get a fish to rise. Maybe a Float/Intermediate or Intermediate type line. Visual takes will just never go out of fashion! Then I swap rods and go for a heavier line, for example an Intermediate/sink5 to dig the fly down, presenting it closer to where the fish may be lying. My advice is to try and read the water, taking the conditions and general situation into account, and then come up with a plan. Always have a plan you can work around and apply your shooting heads and flies to from different angles. Also, don’t be afraid to use heavy density lines if the salmon don’t respond to an initial close-to-the-surface presentation of your fly. Try going heavier than you initially thought was necessary. Give the salmon two options - move or take the fly! My main point is to vary your approach and vary it in a way that really makes a difference. Don’t just change a 5cm fly to an 8cm fly - go from 5cm to 15cm. The same goes for how you use your shooting heads. Don’t just go from an intermediate head to an Intermediate/sink3 - go for an Intermediate/sink7, or why not a 750grain line if you can?! Use all the tools you have in your fly fishing toolbox actively. That’s why shooting heads comes in a range of different densities. If you have one line, you have one tool. If you have 3 lines with different densities, you have 3 tools with different options in your toolbox. Options in salmon fishing aren’t simply nice to have – they’re essential when trying to decode the conditions and hook up with fish”.
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Fact File – UST SD • Powerful taper designed to load modern rods. Turns over heavy flies and long leaders while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly. Handles large fly patterns with excellent turnover • Vibrantly colored tracer at the rear end of the head for full control of the swing on distance or in low light conditions • The Seamless Density sinking technology provides a super-smooth transition between different densities, eliminating hinging and providing a straight-line connection to the fly • Exceptional long sinking tips ensure deep and controlled presentations of the fly • Shooting Texture allows the line to be easily lifted from the depth before the next cast SHOOTING TEXTURE
11 different densities and taper profile combinations - A total of 33 shooting heads - Weights ranging from #7-11 - Floating - Sink8
SHOOTING TEXTURE
ORANGE / BAMB
ORANGE / BAMB
REAR TRACER BELLY SD TAPER BLEND
FRONT TAPER 2
FRONT TAPER 1
REAR TRACER BELLY SD TAPER BLEND
FRONT TAPER 2
FRONT TAPER 1
12m
9m
6m
3m
0m
12m
9m
6m
3m
0m
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SILVER CREEK
IN RECOGNITION
OF FRAGILITY Brett Zundel
Andrew Miller
The Silver Creek is world-renowned for the clockwork dependability of its hatches and its booming population of hungry but selective brown trout. When visiting there, Brett Zundel of Loon Outdoors found out, however, that the fishing was only a minor part of the river’s story. Its serenity and beauty – its very livelihood - seems contingent on the mindset of its visitors, and there were important lessons to be learned there that had very little to do with the actual fishing.
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“
The beauty of Silver Creek depends on all visitors recognizing its fragility
”
We parked next to a one-ton Ford. The lift, custom rod tubes welded to the roof rack, fishing-themed decals and vanity plates all screamed “that guy”. That guy who fishes 400 days a year, only talks about his heroic fishing conquests, and reeks of arrogance about his choices of fishing methods and gear.
As we pulled on our waders the truck’s owner sauntered up the trail from the river with two trash bags. He greeted us warmly, commented on the beauty of the day, and (only when asked) explained that he wasn’t fishing today. Today he was picking up trash and pulling noxious invasive weeds where he found them.
In many ways, this was exactly the rig I expected to see at an iconic stream like Silver Creek, which attracts serious anglers from all over the world who are anxious to test their skills and fly selection against notoriously hungry but selective trout.
I would come to learn that this was a fitting introduction to Silver Creek. This spring creek, famous for perfectly timed hatches and beautiful fish, did indeed call to the most serious anglers. But it also draws reverent anglers. And as this man proved, an angler’s reverence can reach a depth that prompts him or her to carry a
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Author, Brett Zundel, taking his time to take it all in - and to carefully study the insect hatches and fish behaviour before making any casts. Silver Creek awards the patient and analytical fly fisherman.
A stealthy approach is needed to succeed on the Silver Creek. Here’s Alan Peterson carefully approaching a rising brown trout.
Rigging up for steelhead in pair of binoculars Northern Californiaand a trash bag, rather than fly rod and net. Words would fail in describing the masterpiece that is Silver Creek. The calls of songbirds dominate the soundscape, overshadowing the hushed sound produced by the gentle grade of the river. Moose and elk wander through the conservancy. The soft lighting is somewhere between magical and perfect, with summer sunsets lasting for hours. But Silver Creek isn’t a wilderness area defined by distance from society. Access is easy. Main roads are but miles away, and cars can be driven to within yards of the creek. What makes this place
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special is that humans, having recognized the importance and beauty of Silver Creek, have prioritized her protection and have succeeded in enjoying it in a sustainable way.
Searching for some fishable water in Central Oregon
The Nature Conservancy has posted signs to protect habitat by restricting traffic from anglers, hikers and bird-watchers. The temptation for all of us, especially anglers, is to wink at such signs, believing that they apply to everyone else and that we will be careful enough to violate the letter but not the spirit of the law. But here, not so much as a blade of grass is bent, as though everyone sees that there are no shortcuts to conservation, and the beauty of Silver Creek depends on all visitors recognizing its fragility.
“
We hold the lives of the creatures we are taking — literally — in our hands
”
What I have come to realize is that this is true of every natural place. But though it may be true that all natural places rely upon our recognition of responsibility, the angler should be the most aware of this truth. Because of the nature of the sport and the degree to which an angler must immerse him or herself in it, fishing forces connection with those places in a deeply significant way.
We become aware that ever step we take — quite literally — can alter the health of that place. We hold the lives of the creatures we are taking — again literally — in our hands. It would be a shame to visit an iconic place like Silver Creek and miss all that makes it unique. But what I learned at Silver Creek is that all wild places have at least one thing in common: they depend on the reverence and stewardship of everyone who is willing to take the small steps towards their conservation.
The author playing a feisty wild rainbow trout. They can grow to more than 75cm in the spring fed waters of Silver Creek.
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Getting to Silver Creek takes you through aerid praries. The river itself, however, is embedded predominantly in lush meadows.
The hacthes on the Silver Creek are like clockwork, but they can be rather complex, so you better bring all your dry fly boxes and be prepared to sift through them more than once.
FACT FILE// Silver Creek is a true Idaho spring creek and one of the most famed trout rivers on the planet. It is renowned for it perfectly phased and highly dependable hatches, its gin-clear water and its diverse dry fly fishing opportunities. Silver creek has its origins just south of Sun Valley and meanders through atmospheric meadows with mountainous backdrops and open skies. The fish that inhabit the river are predominately brown trout and wild rainbow trout which can grow up to more than 75cm. Ernest Hemingway, who was a keen fly fisher and outdoorsman, was – not surprisingly - attracted to the Silver Creek, and he meticulously worked its banks decades ago. In a world of progressive change, nothing much has changed along the banks of Silver Creek in the time that has since passed. It remains, to this date, an iconic and abundant natural miracle somewhat frozen in time, and to fish there – in the footsteps of Hemingway and a vast array of American fly fishing legends - is to immerse oneself in true American fly fishing culture. For more info about Silver Creek, please refer to: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Silver-Creek-WA
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Flyfish Europe recommends
THE ESSENTIALS
Not everyone is willing to admit it, of course, but most of us fly fishermen are a bit obsessed with tackle. We certainly are! Sure, fly fishing at its most simplistic involves little else but a rod, reel, line and a fly, but there are plenty of essentials that make fly fishing more fun, practical (and aesthetic). Here, we present some of the “essentials” that we’ve come to rely on in recent years.
Smith Creek Rod Clip™
Simms Taco Bag
Simms Gore-Tex Repair Kit
Simms Retractor
Simms Super-Fly Patch
Simms Gore ExStream Cap
Simms Bugstopper Sunshield Cap
Simms Hardbite Boot Studs - Vibram
Simms Sharkfin Buckle
TM
Smith Creek Rod Clip™
Simms Taco Bag
Simms Gore-Tex Repair Kit
The Smith Creek Rod Clip™ is a wearable fishing rod holder that holds a fishing rod so that anglers hands are free to tie on a fly, changing a lure, bait a hook or show off that trophy fish they’ve just landed. It holds a rod securely and out of the way and it can’t be accidentally knocked free.
Improved taco bag for transporting wet, muddy waders and boots. Powered by PU-coated 600 denier ballistic nylon-shell fabric, ingredients include a large circular design that swallows two pairs of dripping waders and their muddy boot companions. Mesh vents prevent mold and mildew. A YKK® zipper comes standard.
Made specifically for GORE-TEX® products - a great kit to keep on-hand for easy repairs to your GORETEX® waders or outerwear. Kit includes one 5 x 10cm rectangular patch and one 1/4 ounce tube of AquaSeal®
Simms Retractor
Simms Super-Fly Patch
Simms Gore ExStream Cap
Attachment stems from a stainless steel pin that’s compatible with all Simms waders and packs, while the rugged PE coil extends the reach of your nippers, pliers, and tippet spools to about two feet.
Durable EVA foam - resists deformation and provides constant pressure on the shank of a barbless hook for more secure hold. Attach to any Simms vest with Velcro® back Provides constant pressure on the shank of a barbless hook for more secure hold
Our most weatherproof, highest-grade insulated fishing cap with flip-down ear protection. Waterproof, durable GORE-TEX® 2L shell fabric with 100g Primaloft Gold insulation and quilted ripstop lining. Adjustable cordlock fit. Velcro earflap closure.
Simms Bugstopper Sunshield Cap
Simms HardBite™ Boot Studs - Vibram
Simms Sharkfin Buckle
For blazing sun and biting bugs, this long-bill lid provides UPF50 protection and proven Insect-Shield® performance.Built-in neck cape for full coverage. Cord-lock adjustment for improved fit. Black underbrim reduces glare.
For Vibram® Soles (20 Count) easily convert our StreamTread™ soles to studded. 45+ Rockwell hard screw, zinc-plated for corrosion resistance. Hex head sharp point screw & hex nut driver. Welded carbide gripper pellets enhance traction & durability.
Keep your hemostats close at hand with our patented buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. Compatible with any Simms wader with Duraflex Buckles, excludes Headwaters Stockingfoot.
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SMITH Visor Clip
McLean Magnetic Net Release
C&F Design 3-in-1 Clipper
C&F Design Micro-Slit Foam Chest Patch
C&F Design Rod Holder
C&F Design Lightweight Chest Storage - L
C&F Design 3-in-1 Thermometer
TroutHunter CDC Fly Dressing
Scientific Anglers Rod Sleeve
Scientific Anglers Fly Line Dressing w/Pad
Loon Outdoors Grafitolin Ferule Wax
Loon Outdoors Line Up Kit
SMITH Visor Clip
McLean Magnetic Net Release
C&F Design 3-in-1 Clipper
The SMITH Visor Clip is a sunglasses holder that clips to your automobile visor. When your precious Smith Sunglasses live in the car, you need the Smith Visor Clip to protect them from getting dinged or scratched.
Perfect for keeping your net safely stored and within reach. Built tough with high grade anodised aluminium and UV resistant materials. Minimum 25% stronger holding power than most other magnetic net releases Holds static weigh of 4.7Kg.
Clipper, threader and eye cleaner in one combo tool. This clever tool features a built-in magnet that holds the cutting blade securely in place. A great and lightweight tool that performs several tasks.
C&F Design Foam Chest Patch
C&F Design Rod Holder
C&F Design Lightweight Chest Storage
The perfect on-vest fly storage and protection system. Attach this convenient fly keeper to you vest or jacket. Large side gates help ventilate and the main Micro Slit Foam holds flies. A magnetic dot and foam on the cover function as temporary fly holders.
An innovative rod holder that attaches to your car. Polyethylene foam securely holds your rods in place, while you prepare and get rigged. Capacity: 3 rods. Strong neodymium magnets used for adhesion.
An adjustable integrated lanyard built around the large C&F lightweight fly case. Features eight metal snaps to retain tools and gadgets. Built-in retainer clip attaches to clothing to prevent the lanyard from moving.
C&F Design 3-in-1 Thermometer
TroutHunter CDC Fly Dressing
Scientific Anglers Rod Sleeve
An innovative product with 3 functions: Thermometer, Waste Line Holder and Lost Fly Catcher. The thermometer is very precise and great for doing statistics or finding coastal spots with warmer water.
TroutHunter CDC Fly Dressing is made with real waterfowl preen oil, one of nature’s most efficient conditioning and flotational agents. It will not mat, discolor, or damage even the most delicate flies.
Unique braided construction perfect for storing fully rigged rods or rods broken in half. Available in two sizes: Full and Half. Essential especially when fishing from a boat.
Scientific Anglers Fly Line Dressing & Pad
Loon Outdoors Grifitolin Ferule Wax
Loon Outdoors Line Up Kit
Advanced formulation makes the Fly Line Dressing lasts longer and stays on your line longer than any other dressing. Includes a cleaning pad. Contains advanced lubricants. Easy to apply streamside.
Helps minimizes the chance of breakage through regular lubrication, allowing a rod to assemble easily while keeping the attachments strong. Lubricates ferrules to minimize breakage. Makes rod assembly easier.
Apply Line Speed to pads of Line Cleaning Tool. Run line through while squeezing tightly. This kit will help you clean your fly line and get the most out it in terms of smoothness and linespeed.
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New 2021
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
Fishing with a Conscience
Ergo Dubbing Pick Some flies get better the longer they are fished. The Ergo Dubbing Pick pulls up trapped fibers to get flies up to speed right away. The ergonomic handle is powder-coated in iconic Loon yellow so it won’t get lost on your tying bench. Ergonomic design // Powder-coated handle // Quickly picks out dubbing // Makes files buggier
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Ergo Prime Scissors - 12,7cm
Ergo Prime Scissors - 15,2cm
The broad blades offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate the tyers who got in the hand line twice, and the blades are honed to perfection in the USA.
The broad blades offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate the tyers who got in the hand line twice, and the blades are honed to perfection in the USA.
Enlarged ergonomic finger/thumb holes // Hand-tuned in the USA // Surgical quality stainless steel // Powder-coated grip // Extra sharp cutting blades
Enlarged ergonomic finger/thumb holes // Hand-tuned in the USA // Surgical quality stainless steel // Powder-coated grip // Extra sharp cutting blades
Photo credit: Andrew Miller
Our community is made up of anglers who spend hours at their vise and long days on the water, as well as those who are lucky if they can get out to fish twice a year. It’s also made up of vendors, co-workers, customers and neighbors. We are all in this together regardless of experience or title. We work to make the process—whether it is fishing or business— more enjoyable for everyone. From products to educational resources to how we respond to questions and interact with our delivery drivers—we look for ways to improve your day.
Back in Black Changing the color doesn’t take away anything that has made Loon’s tying tools a joy to use—they still fit comfortably and perform beautifully. But the matte black finish gives these tools a clean but tough look, and feel even smoother in hand.
D-Tweezer
All Purpose Bobbin
All Purpose Scissors
Bodkin
Dubbing Brush
Hackle Plier
Whip Finisher
Dubbing Spinner
Vise Pawn
Zippy Hair Stacker
Small Bench Ring
Ergo Knot Tool
Rogue Hook Removal Forceps
Materials look so great hanging on the wall in a shop, but most fly tying benches look like a bomb just went off. The Bench Rings solve that problem. The stainless steel rings allow tyers to organize materials, hooks and beads by style/ size/type/color using the same bags they came in.
Nail knots aren’t tested often, but when they are there is a lot on the line. It is worth getting it right, but best to avoid spending all afternoon cursing and trying to find a substitute for a solid knot tool. The Ergo Knot Tool makes nail knots easy and comes with clear instructions on how they are to be tied.
Designed to make hook removal easy for both angler and fish, these forceps make quick work of getting fish back in the water. Beyond the curved hook remover, these include the geometric Rogue tips for mashing barbs of all sizes.
Organizes materials, hooks, etc in poly bags // Secure threaded closure
Ergonomic design // Quickly ties nail knots // Instructions included
5.5” long // Stealthy matte black rust-resistant finish // Comfy grip provides extra tackiness // Double-dipped handle for added comfort // Surgical quality stainless steel // Locking handles // Half smooth, half serrated jaw
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THE BOOBY DAMSEL
AUTUMN ON THE TROUT LAKE Peter Lyngby
Morten Valeur
Damsels are widespread in most stillwater- and commercial fisheries. Here, the energetic insects are high on the menu card of the resident rainbow trout. In the following, the experienced Swedish fly tyer Håkan Karsnäser explains how to use the effective Booby Fly to imitate damsels and lure big trout.
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Newly stocked rainbow trout in artificial- or natural lakes and streams are usually not on a particular diet, and they have a reputation for biting on almost anything that they come across. Experienced put and take fly fishermen, however, know that this unnaturally big appetite will rapidly diminish and that even stocked trout sometimes become extremely picky. It happens, gradually, as they become accustomed to their new environment’s natural food availability. Among the rainbow trout’s favorite dishes, damsel nymphs rank high, perhaps because these hardy insects aren’t overly demanding when it comes to water quality and since, as a result, they are present in prolific quantities in almost all types of put and take waters. One of the experts when it comes to fly fishing and tying for stocked trout lakes is Swedish Håkan Karsnäser, who has regularly demonstrated his skills at many European fairs. We met Håkan to talk about his longtime experience with rainbow trout and not least his poisonous fly pattern: The Booby Damsel.
3.000 flies a year Håkan Karsnäser is happy to admit that fly tying is at least as important to him as fishing itself. Håkan has been tying flies for more than thirty years, and - already at an early age - he started tying flies for local shops. Today, Håkan uses fly tying as a relaxing element in everyday life, and he ties flies for almost all forms of fly fishing, as well as a lot of classic salmon flies, which are mostly for fun and for practicing advanced techniques. - Fly tying has had an almost therapeutic effect on me, Håkan explains. I started with the flies when I was quite young, and I had tied for quite some time before I even started fishing with them on a fly rod. I tie flies daily and
Håkan Karsnäser
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I love my home waters in Hökensås, and I usually do at least a hundred shorter or longer fishing trips a year there.
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it usually runs up to 2-3.000 flies a year. I like to tie all types of flies, from very technical and time-consuming salmon flies, to simpler fishing flies like the Booby Damsel that we’re going to tie today.
During my time as a fly shop supplier, I often tied several hundreds of the same fly, and this has given me great insights into the technical elements of fly tying and maximum utilization of fly-tying materials. A fly like the Booby Damsel only consists of three materials, and - with a bit of practice - it is lightning fast to tie. Lots of Damsel variations have been made over time, but few are simpler than this one, he says. FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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The Booby techniques Håkan Karsnäser’s Booby Damsel fly, as the name clearly indicates, is based on the Booby fly tying style developed for trout flies. The manic characteristic of this type of fly, which was originally developed by British reservoir fishermen in the 1980s, is the large foam eyes in the front – eyes that make the fly float or hover. The Booby Fly quickly proved to be extremely effective for rainbows all over Europe, and Håkan eventually came across the pattern and applied his own twist to it.
Hökensås Despite the many hours behind the vice, Håkan Karsnäser is also quite an active fly fisherman, and the rainbow trout in his local waters in the Hökensås area are never safe. - I love my home waters in Hökensås, and I usually do at least a hundred shorter or longer fishing trips a year there. I also fish a lot of pike and seatrout on the coast, but there is something extremely rewarding about fishing locally. In addition to the obvious practicality of the short distance, fishing the same water often provides accumulating experience and great discernments. - When you fish the same water frequently all year round, you learn a lot about how the fish behave and how they react to different flies and fishing techniques. I would recommend this to anyone, rather than wandering around and constantly looking for new hotspots. That said, I can’t help but recommend the Hökensås area to European fly fishermen, says Kåkan. Hökensås offers a lot of fishing opportunities in a number of lakes, and the flowing water Baltak is not far away either. Hökensås has its own fish farm, and the rainbow trout here are healthy and in great condition. They are good fighters, and it is extremely rare that you encounter a fin-damaged fish. Furthermore, the area has plenty of accommodation options including camping and cabins. 192
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I retrieve the fly with sharp jerks so the fly imitates the erratic darting movement of the nymphs.
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Håkan explains his way of fishing the Booby Damsel. - The special thing about the Booby Fly is that you fish it on sinking line. However, I would like to add that you can actually be very successful with this fly with a floating line too - when the damsel nymphs hatch earlier in the year. That way, you have two flies in one. With that said, I usually fish my Booby Damsel near the bottom, where the nymphs stay most of the year. - I usually have two fly rods rigged up when I go to the trout lake – both rigged up with sinking lines, but with different sink rates: Usually an intermediate line and a
sinking line. That way, I can quickly adapt my fishing technique to changing bottom conditions. I especially like to seek out small bays or parts of the lake that aren’t too deep and preferably areas where I know there is some sort of vegetation on the bottom. The nymphs stay there, and of course the rainbows know that, Håkan says and continues: - I like to retrieve the fly with small sharp jerks, so the fly imitates the erratic darting movement of the nymphs, but I want to point out that variation in the retrieve is oftentimes the way to succeed. Be careful not to doze into autopilot-mode
you stick the hook through the middle of the foam cylinder before you secure the eyes tightly with the tying thread. You may want to make a hole in the foam with your dubbing needle first. Otherwise, this is a pretty simple fly, but remember to save the hairs you cut from the zonker strip, because you can use them for the body instead of cutting more. I also make a sand-colored version of the Booby Damsel Fly and one in a very dark olive tone, Håkan Karsnäser concludes.
Håkan usually looks for the trout near weedbeds and structure - and he typically uses sinking lines to get to the right depth.
Håkan fishes hard all year round, but autumn is one of his favourite times to target the local rainbow trout.
when standing on the bank of the lake. Instead, imagine how the floating fly responds to your retrieve and how it swims or moves across the bottom at an appetizing pace. The trout tend to follow the fly curiously, so I would recommend retrieving it almost all the way to the tip of the rod. To keep the fly down and present it most elegantly, I usually use a sinking poly tip, followed by a short piece of fluorocarbon of about seventy centimeters. You will experience a little contact with the bottom from time to time when fishing the Booby Damsel efficiently, and therefore it is advisable to use a 0.20-0.23mm tippet, Håkan says.
Tying tips Despite the Booby Damsel’s simple construction, Håkan has a few good tips for those who want to tie the fly themselves. - Many people just tie the Booby eyes in on top of the hook, but I think they fit significantly better and are more durable if FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2021
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Varying your retrieve is oftentimes the way to succeed
Materials// Hook: Ahrex FW 510 # 14 Thread: Black UNI 8/0 Tail: Light olive squirrel zonker strip Body: Light olive squirrel hair Hackle: Olive partridge Eyes: Black Booby Eyes, 4 mm
Håkan always carries two rods loaded with different line setups to better be able to adapt to the conditions.
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Insert the hook into the vise and fasten the tying thread. Punch a hole in the foam and slide the Booby eyes onto the hook. Secure with a small drop of Loctite glue first.
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Cut the hairs off a piece of squirrel strip so that there is only approx. 1 mm of hair left. Tie in the zonker strip so there is only hair protruding from the end of the tail.
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Tie in the tip of the partridge just behind the eyes. Make two to three turns with the hackle right up to the eyes and cut off the stem.
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Secure the eyes thoroughly with the thread and a small drop of Loctite glue. Leave the tying thread at the back of the hook.
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Mix the clipped squirrel hairs a little with your fingers and dub them onto the thread. Dub a short and full body on the hook but leave a little space behind the eyes.
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Finish the fly and brush the body and hackle with your dubbing brush. The fly is now done.
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FLY TYING:
WIGGLE SANDEEL Rasmus Pabst Ovesen
Seatrout generally love big protein-rich prey items so, when targeting them, you shouldn’t be afraid of using big flies. Especially from late spring throughout the summer months and well into fall, seatrout feed ferociously on prey fish such as herring, sprattus, gobius, stickleback and sandeel. And the latter are typically found along relatively shallow coastal stretches with a mixture of sandy patches, rocks and seagrass. In other words, places that are perfect for fly fishing.
Materials Hook: Ahrex PR320 Predator Stinger, #2/0 Thread: Veevus G02 100D, White Under body: Chartreuse Firestar Dubbing Wing: White and Seafoam Squimpish Hair + Peacock & Holo Flash Side: Pro Sportfisher Candy Foil, Silver Holographic, #L UV-resin: Thin Loon UV-resin Head: Marc Petitjean Magic Head, #R13
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Sandeels
are a group of silvery, eel-like and spiny-finned marine fish that can be found burrowing in sand or shingle – or migrating along the coastal shorelines in big schools. The most common member of the family, the Northern European sandeel (Ammodites dubius), is a popular prey item, and especially seatrout tend to key in on them. They range in size from 10 to 20 centimeters and they present a solid mouthful for a hungry seatrout. There’s a reason sandeels are called “SANDeels”. They prefer habitats with sandy bottom where they can burrow into the sediments and hide when they’re not feeding. They can’t hide forever, though, so they school up regularly and hunt for small crustaceans, such as copepods, and when they do, they need to be constantly on the move (as they have no swim bladder). At short distances, they’re
fast swimmers with an erratic S-curve movement pattern, but over longer distances, they’re no match for a seatrout. The Wiggle Sandeel is a pattern designed to imitate the sandeels slithering S-curve movement while at the same time opting for a great degree of physical similarity. It can be varied in size according to the sandeel found along your local coastal shores, and it is very durable and stable in the water. It is best fished on an intermediate line with a double-hand retrieve and a fair amount of speed – without any pauses. Try a Wiggle Sandeel the next time you fish a local coastal stretch with mixed sand bottom. If there are sandeels around, seatrout are bound to key in on- and hunt for them. Be on the lookout for swirls and wakes, and cover as much water as you can. And be prepared! The resulting strikes are often lightning fast and prompt.
“Seatrout are bound to key in on- and hunt for - sandeels”.
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Seatrout
are normally found hunting for sandeels during the summer and into the fall months - especially along coastal shores facing the open sea or along the outer parts of the fjords. They’re a prey item that comprise a significant part of the seatrout’s diet, especially for the biggest individuals. And, not surprisingly, many of the biggest Scandinavian seatrout ever landed have been caught on sandeel imitations. Seatrout prefer to hunt where there’s cover to find, and since sandeels prefer bare, sandy bottom, seatrout will typically hunt for sandeels by cruising the perimeters of the sandbars and -shoals that are found parallel to the coastline and make surprise attacks onto the sandy parts.
In terms of leaders, scale things up a bit and don’t be afraid to shorten your tippet if need be. The advantage of a rapidly retrieved fly is that the seatrout have to react promptly, and it typically makes them less suspicious and leader shy. The takes, however, can be brutal. And the combination of a rapid retrieve and brutal takes from big fish requires heavy-duty tippets, so use 0,26 - 0,28mm nylon. You don’t want to break that trophy silver treasure off once it finally comes out of nowhere to inhale your sandeel imitation.
The intersections are typically found where the water drops off a little bit, and the proximity to deeper water means that bigger fish are likely to get drawn in - fish that are normally not within reach. And if you get the timing right, and get out when there’s a bit of wave action and some cloud cover the seatrout will be even more aggressive and reckless in their hunt. To make the most of your efforts, you’ll need to set up your gear accordingly. You’ll need a stripping basket and a fly line capable of effectively turning over your sandeel pattern - even when deep wading and casting in hefty winds. The Volantis Integrated Tapers are great for this purpose, but there’s also the Volantis Shooting Taper in Fast Intermediate to take into consideration. It’s a versatile and powerful casting tool with the added bonus that it helps you get below the waves - even when stripping in the fly rapidly.
“The advantage of a rapidly retrieved fly is that the seatrout have to react promptly”
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During the summer months, the seatrout have ideal growth conditions and - as a result, they hunt large prey such as sandeels.
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Fasten the hook securely in your vise.
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Wrap the whole hook shank with dubbing, then run the tying thread through the dubbing to rib it tight.
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Tie in 8-10 strands of silver holographic flashabou on top of the white Squimpish Hair.
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Produce a left- and a right Fish Foil and tie them in on each side of the fly. Then trim all excess fibres and whip finish the fly.
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Mount a Magic Head and secure it with the tying thread. Make sure it’s seated firmly.
Wrap the tying thread all the way down to the hook bend and dub it with chartreuse Firestar Dubbing.
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Tie in a bundle of white Squimpish Hair underneath the hook shank – at a length of abolut 15 – 18cm.
Tie in another bundle of white Squimpish Hair on top of the hook shank, right behind the Magic Head.
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Now, tie in a bundle of seafoam-coloured Squimpish hair matching the length of the existing wing sections.
On top of everything else, tie in a small bundle of peacock-coloured holographic flashabou.
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Now, UV glue the fly carefully to give it the right shape. Be sure to fill all the gabs in the body to increase durability.
Give the fly a final, fully-covering layer of thin UV-glue and zap it with your UV torch. The fly is now finished.
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THE SCIENCE BEHIND YOUR ART
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Photo: Rasmus Ovesen, Gaula NFC Beat
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