With the addition of the ALL-NEW Headway Single-handed and Switch Headway heads and integrated lines, we’ve got you covered no matter how you prefer to target anadromous fish.
INTEGRATED LINES BELLIES & TIPS
Hi there. You’ve just gotten your hands on the 2024-edition of Flyfish Europe Magazine, and we salute you for it! It’s a testament to your passion and dedication to fly fishing, and we hope you’ll find both inspirational content and gear that will motivate you to go charter new territory this seasonand to pay your local fly tackle dealer a visit.
We’re proud to present you with a ton of great product news that will help you perform on the water and - not least - at your fly tying desk. With regards to the latter, we’re excited to announce that we’re now the exclusive European distributors for Mustad, Ahrex, and Core fly hooks as well as Whiting Farms; the renowned Colorado-based hackle producer.
Tight lines!
Fighting your catch in open water or standing waist deep in a mountain stream, the Smith Hookset sunglasses are the ones you grab to see below the surface. Because glare is every angler’s adversary, we made them with a variety of lens options, all with glare-cutting polarization that enhances contrast and depth perception. Minimal bottom rims keep moisture from pooling up, while no-slip nose pads ensure they stay comfortably in place
ChromaPop™
Fighting your catch in open water or standing waist deep in a mountain stream, the Smith Hookset sunglasses are the ones you grab to see below the surface. Because glare is every angler’s adversary, we made them with a variety of lens options, all with glare-cutting polarization that enhances contrast and depth perception. Minimal bottom rims keep moisture from pooling up, while no-slip nose pads ensure they stay comfortably in place until the sun sets.
ChromaPop™ polarized lenses cut glare and enhance color and contrast
ChromaPop™ Glass polarized lenses cut glare and enhance color and contrast while being highly scratch-resistant
ChromaPop™ Polarchromic lenses combine polarization and tint-adjusting photochromic tech for light adaptability and visual clarity
Smudge and moisture resistant coating for easy cleaning and clear optics
Evolve™ bio-based frame material is lightweight and durable Strategic frame chamfers to allow moisture to exit off of the lens and away from the groove
Medium to large fit, medium coverage
8-base lens curvature
Wraparound fit
Megol temple and nose pads provide non-slip grip so glasses stay put
Spring hinges self-adjust to your face for a customized fit
The included PivLock™ leash retainer seamlessly attaches to your frames to keep them safe
PivLock™ leash retainer
Hard case
Microfiber pouch
You guys rock; Darcy Bacha, Rasmus Ovesen, Martin Ejler Olsen, Matt Harris, John Frazier, Dominic Bruno, Stina Didriksen, Chris Dore, Mikael Lindström, Henrik Kure, Morten Valeur, Peter Lyngby, Eddie Payton, Roy Thue, Jarle L. Kristiansen, Tom Roger Bekkeli, Tommy Josefsen, Håkan Karsnäser, Peter Schmitt, Ann-Britt Bogen
The Indian Ocean is home to some of the most remote fly fishing destinations in the world. In this article, Rasmus Ovesen takes you to Farquhar Atoll – a fabled and far-flung atoll just north of Madagascar known for its incredible species diversity.
Fly line keeps peeling mercilessly off my fly reel at a most disturbing pace and the violent tugs, that continue to transplant themselves through my fly rod, constantly threaten to put me off balance. I’m in hot pursuit across uneven and craggy corals along Farquhar Atoll’s wind-swept outer reefs, where huge swells from the far horizons of the Indian Ocean crash deafeningly onto shore. To say it’s chaotic would be a gross understatement!
My mind is in a state of distress and alert; an overwhelming sense of immediate unreality has set ind, and there’s no processing capacity left for anything but the imminent task at hand – however desperate and hopeless it may seem. I’m connected to a mythological being whose powers seem to exceed mine. And it feels more like this supreme being has hooked me than the other way around.
The racing beats of my agitated heart pound vehemently in my temples. Sweat trickles relentlessly down my face. Lactic acid burns in my legs, and I’m starting to run out of backing. And then – suddenly – the fish miraculously slows down. It seems it can no longer keep up with the rest of the startled school and, instead, it starts to thrash violently about in an attempt to liberate itself from the invisible pull. Perhaps this battle of the wills will eventually tip over to my advantage? Perhaps, I actually do stand a chance.
”This is perfect. You’ve broken his spirit!”, says the guide enthusiastically, as we finally start to catch up with the fish. It’s poised in a depression between coral bommies and shallow plateaus of turtle grass and is just sitting there with a scowling expression on its face – like some sort of Aqua Hulk. I’m dying to believe the guide, but I fear my opponent still has amble amounts of raw, chaotic power to unleash.
Underneath the waves, I see the distorted silhouette of the strange fish; its swelling metallic-green flanks, the bulging pink forehead, and its bolt cutter beak. Through a temporary window in the water surface, it’s as if our eyes briefly meet. Then, suddenly, the fish bursts into an abrupt trembling paroxysm, its jaws chattering convulsively.
The water explodes and the connection is lost. The leader has been cut, the fish is gone, and a fast-dissipating crater-like whirl is all that’s left where it was. The piercing emptiness that I’m left with is unbearable.
It’s the third bumphead parrotfish that I’ve lost within an hour’s worth of hectic fishing, and I can’t stand anymore punishment right now. It’s time for something different? But what?
When fishing along the reefs, one may catch a vast variety of different species, including snappers and groupers.
Dramatic species diversity
Farquhar Atoll is home to an acutely stress-provoking amount of exciting fish species. The species diversity here is staggering, and as a visiting fly fisherman it can be difficult to stay focused.
Every little microhabitat within- and along the atoll’s outer reefs houses its own, carefully adapted fish species, and when the weather permits and one heads offshore, countless bluewater species may be encountered. Most of the fish species are both incredibly powerful and strikingly beautiful. And they are challenging and fun to catch. Even so, only a select few of them are considered game fish worthy of being specifically targeted. On the flats, these are mainly giant trevally, bumphead parrotfish, bonefish, triggerfish, and Indo-pacific permit.
For those, mostly preoccupied with catching the undisputed gangster of the flats – the giant trevally, Farquhar Atoll is a veritable Mecca. This is where the BBC documentary, ”The Blue Planet II”, in which giant trevally are seen charging out of the water and intercepting birds in mid-air - was filmed, and catching one on a popper at Goelette Island, with lots of black terns awhirl in the wind, is an experience, which – in and of itself – is worth the whole trip.
Bumphead parrotfish is, perhaps, the most immediately pressing and urgent species to catch at Farquhar Atoll. Populations have dramatically declined worldwide and there are now only a handful of atolls left where one can successfully fly fish for them. Farquhar Atoll is one of them. Here, you’ll find big schools of
these grossly powerful and alien-like parrotfish as they come onto the reef edges and flats to chew-, crush- and derive nutrients from the corals that grow here.
Ever-present on Farquhar Atoll’s pearlescent sandy flats and beaches, whether in big schools of smaller fish or in small nervous groups of full-grown specimens, is the ‘ghost of the flats’: The bonefish. This formidable- but oftentimes overlooked gamefish is a high-octane and furiously paced adversary that is known for gentle takes followed by explosive runs. Anywhere else on this planet, bonefish are a prominent part of the main cast. On Farquhar, however, it’s more of a peripheral extra that doesn’t shine with its absence until you desperately need one to complete a flats- or grand slam.
Yellow-margin- and moustache triggerfish are found in shallow areas with a mixture of corals, turtle grass, and sand – typically along the outer reefs of Farquhar Atoll. These awkward-looking, gnarly, crab-eating fish are surprisingly well-camouflaged. However, at low tide, they are occasionally found waving their tails enticingly as they dig in the bottom for food.
Triggerfish are a species of fish in dire need of a psychologist. They are quite bi-polar; on the one hand incredibly territorial, aggressive, and ferocious, on the other hand extremely skittish, ambivalent, and finicky. They also happen to pack a bite like few other fish, capable as they are, of completely demolishing hooks (or biting a finger clean off for that matter), and once you hook one, it’s likely to surge directly towards a coral bommie or similar and wedge itself under- or inside it using its “trigger”-shaped dorsal fin as a locking mechanism. It’s an interesting fish to say the least!
Permit are found on many of the same flats that house bonefish. These gilt-edged fish, that can turn even the most experienced fly fisherman with saltwater in his veins into a fumbling nerve-wreck, are among the most edgy and picky fish on the flats – and thus one of the most challenging to catch. They typically show up solitary or in small schools, and both technical skill and luck are required to lure one into striking. When it finally happens, you’re in for a long and arduous fight. Farquhar Atoll isn’t widely recognized as a permit destination but make no mistake! They are there in surprising numbers, and many of the fish are BIG!
“ Most of the fish species are both incredibly powerful and strikingly beautiful
There is lots of wildlife to see on the atoll; including a myriad of birds.
Bumphead parrotfish are immensely powerful fish and landing one is real achievement.
Farquhar Atoll is one of the most remote atolls on the planet.
Do as the guide says!
One of my primary goals in traveling to Farquhar Atoll is to catch one of its signature fish; a bumphead parrotfish. However, I also know from experience that it can be counter-productive to be too myopically preoccupied with specific goals. And right now, my will is broken! I have completely lost all self-confidence, and highly doubt that it’s possible to land one of these maniacal fish on steroids.
The guide, Shaun Wampach, is ready to go. He has already mentioned, earlier on, that the best way to fish Farquhar Atoll is with an open mind; to simply let the tidal cycles and weather conditions decide where-, when-, and what to fish for. And if there’s one thing, I’ve learned throughout the years, it’s to do as the guide says. I therefore take him at his word, leave my destiny in his hands, and satisfy myself with at least having felt the power and savage temperament of a bumphead parrotfish. It’s time to look for new adventures – and it seems as if Shaun has already formulated a new game plan…
The tide has turned, and cool oceanic water has now started to flood across the outer reefs. We’ve relocated to the north-east-
ern part of the atoll where the conditions should be about right for giant trevally and sporadic triggerfish. What we’re met with, however, is something entirely different: Waving spade-like tails and massive blue-green shadows across shallow coral flats.
”Sorry mate. It seems we’re not quite done with the bumpies”, says Shaun, as he hands me my fly rod with a big grin on his face. I follow his orders with reluctance but find myself fully focused and ready a few moments later, as we come within casting range.
”Chaos Will Reign”
My first cast is right on the money: Just on the edge of the school. I keep contact with the fly, then feel a slight tautness and watch in awe as an area, the size of an uptown living room explodes in cascades of water. As a startled herd of buffaloes, the whole school now charges towards the edge of the reef, and I lean back and apply as much pressure as I possibly dare in order to prevent the fish I’ve hooked from doing the same thing. This is make or break!
The next 10 minutes are chaotic and – for the most part – look completely hopeless. I barely manage to separate the fish I’ve hooked from the remainder of the school, but I haven’t yet come close to breaking its spirit. It thrashes angrily about somewhere out there – beyond meter-high waves that collide blindly against the edge of the reef – and I find myself in neckdeep water high-sticking the fish, trying to prevent it from cutting me off on coral bommies and random volcanic structure.
Fittingly, since he is to blame for this whole ordeal, Shaun now gets a workout of his own. With death-defying determination, he jumps into the waves, wades, swims, and dives for the fish and – after being completely gone for a disturbingly long while – he finally washes up onto the reef drenched and short of breath, with a bleeding shin and a giant blue-green fish sticking out of his impossibly small landing net. Jubilant scenes now play out. My dream has come true!
It’s a good idea to bring both light and heavy tackle “
A liberated fly fisherman
The rest of the day, I feel liberated, without further expectations or nerves. A giant trevally reveals itself in the waves. I cast like a god into the wind, place the fly perfectly ahead of the fish, watch as the clearly agitated fish inhales the fly, strip-set the hook with raw power and proceed to land the fish with a firm and disciplinary hand. Like a boss!
Later, in the afternoon, a permit materializes on the back of a big stingray mudding for crustaceans on an expansive, pearlescent flat. I serve up a white Alphlexo Crab - dangling at the end of a 6-metre-long leader tapering into a 15lb tippet. The fish reacts immediately and follows the fly a couple of meters before an ever-so-subtle tug propagates through the line. I resist the temptation to lift the rod, continue stripping, and shortly after everything comes taught. Masterfully done!
The fish surges irresistible outwards and across the flat in an attempt to clear out the rest of my backing, but it doesn’t stand a chance. I take my time; play the fish patiently and use the rod to mitigate the many runs and abrupt pulls. Ultimately, Shaun is able to net a pristine-looking fish overstrewn with sparkly gold dust.
Seeing as we’re already on a big, gleaming flat, we might as well look for a bonefish. It takes shape like a faint ghost in milky water close to the shoreline, and I manage to place another perfect cast that instantly results in a take. Then a series of lightning-quick runs. Of course!
Too fast on the trigger
It isn’t until we wrap up for the day that Shaun confesses. For a long while, I have sat in the boat and watched as my friend and boat partner, Martin, has cast (to no avail) into a big school of permit that kept getting terrorized and spooked by a massive GT. We’ve now relocated, and Shaun has commanded me to the casting platform in the front of the boat. Less than half an hour remains of the day, and we’re spending it in a small, shallow bay that so far looks devoid of fish.
Then, with less than five minutes left to fish, a full-grown yellow-margin triggerfish, suddenly emerges on top of a coral bommie – right in front of the boat.
I’ve already landed a trophy-sized titan triggerfish the day before, and – as a result – I’m only moderately disappointed when the fish, after having followed the fly over a short distance, spooks and disappears. I know all too well that this is the rule rather than the exception, and it doesn’t detract anything from an otherwise incredible day.
Shaun, on the other hand, seems a lot more affected. Shaken even. And it’s with a tone of disappointment in his voice that he announces that it’s time to pack up.
”That was so close!”, I hear him mutter in a whispering, resigned voice as he jumps down into the boat from his guide-platform in the back.
“It was just a triggerfish”; I casually note after having sorted my gear and prepared for the ride back to the lodge. Shaun looks up from the aft of the boat, stares back at me momentarily, and then breaks into a huge smile.
A golden grand slam?
We’ve been millimeters away from achieving something unique, Shaun now reveals. With the addition of a triggerfish, we would have landed a so-called “golden grand slam”. Allegedly, such an achievement has only been accomplished twice in Alphonse Fishing Company’s more than 25-year-long history, and it has never happened on Farquhar Atoll specifically. Shaun has even heard rumors that anyone who succeeds in landing a “super grand slam” wins a free trip, but this he can’t verify…
Either way, I’m nowhere near landing a golden grand slam during the remainder of the trip. And it doesn’t matter. I fish with an open mind, gradually develop a deeper understanding of the atoll’s unique and diverse fishery – it’s rhythm and character. And in the process, I catch lots of fish.
Another fly fisherman will manage to land a golden grand slam on Farquhar Atoll some sweet day. It’s bound to happen – and I bet it will be one of those guests who comes with an open mind and does what his guide says.
The bumphead parrotfish is distributed across the Equatorial part of the Indian Ocean
FACT FILE – FARQUHAR ATOLL
Farquhar Atoll is named after the former governor of Mauritius, Robert Townsend Farquhar. Since the 1500s, the Atoll has been claimed by different colonial powers. However, from 1976 and onwards, it’s officially been part of the Seychelles. Geographically speaking, Farquhar Atoll is situated approximately 250 kilometers to the northeast of Madagascar in the Western corner of the Indian Ocean.
The largest atoll in the Seychelles with its 17800 hectares, Farquhar Atoll has been inhabited by a small group of fishermen and farmers since the 1850s. Today, the Island Conservation Society, has infrastructure and crew stationed on the atoll, and Alphonse Fishing Company has a full-catering lodge there, which was set up after the cyclone Fantala – the most powerful cyclone in Seychelles history – hit the atoll in April 2016.
Further information about the lodge, which hosts 10 fly fishing guests in individual en suite apartments, can be found here: www.alphonsefishingco.com
FACT FILE – THE EQUIPMENT
If you’re planning to fish Farquhar Atoll with an open mind, it’s a good idea to bring both light and heavy tackle. For bonefish and permit, a 9’ 8-weight rod is optimal, while a 9’ 10-weight is perfectly suited for triggerfish and bumphead parrotfish. For giant trevally, even heavier equipment is required. 9’ 12-weights are usually the preferred choice to tame these supernaturally powerful fish. (And you might consider bringing a 15-weight setup for bluewater fishing for dogtooth tuna, sailfish, and the likes).
The fly reels should be saltwater-resistant, fitted with strong and smooth drag systems with immense stopping-power, and capable of storing 150 – 200 yards of backing. In terms of giant trevally, both the backing and fly line should have a breaking strength of about 100lbs – and the same goes for the leaders, which typically consist of 6 – 8 feet of straight nylon. Floating WFlines such as Scientific Anglers’ Amplitude Grand Slam and Big Water Taper are among the top-choices for the Farquhar fishery. Be sure to have all three set-ups rigged and ready at all times, as you never know what’s going to show up next on the flats.
Traveling to Farquhar Atoll takes at least two days and includes an overnight stay in Mahe: The capitol of the Seychelles. From Mahe, you’ll continue onwards via the IDC Hangar just south of the international airport on a flight arranged by Alphonse Fishing Co. The flight takes about three hours and typically involves a short stopover on Alphonse Island.
In Mahe, the waterfront Eden Bleu Hotel is highly recommended (www.edenbleu.com), and if you’d like to experience a bit of what Mahe has to offer – either before or after your trip to Farquhar Atoll, there is lots of inspiration and info to be found on the official Tourism Board of the Seychelles: https://seychelles.com/home
is the largest member of the parrotfish family. It can reach lengths of up to 1,5 meters and weigh more than 150lbs, and it is distributed across the Equatorial parts of the Indian Ocean and certain areas of the Pacific Ocean. Bumphead parrotfish can live for more than 40 years, and since they’re slow-growing shoaling fish that don’t reach sexual maturity until the age of 5 – 8 years, they’re extremely vulnerable to over-harvesting.
The beak, which is so characteristic for the bumphead parrotfish, consists of fluorapatite, which is among the hardest biominerals in the world, harder than copper, silver, and gold. The fish use their beaks to chew corals, which they then churn, digest, and filter for nourishment.
The pink hump is thought to play a role in relation to certain hierarchy rituals. In these rituals, individual fish test their strength against other dominant members of a school by frontally colliding into each other – a bit like bighorn rams on land.
Another interesting fact is that bumphead parrotfish are protogynous hermaphrodites and therefore capable of changing gender. The dominant alpha male in a school is usually a female that has changed gender.
Most keen fly fishers know that Iceland is a salmon angler’s paradise. Healthy runs of sparkling silver tourists still come cavorting up the island’s plethora of gin-clear rivers every summer and they offer exhilarating fishing with both single and double-handed rods.
By Matt Harris
ve enjoyed some wonderful days teasing out fish with riffle-hitch tactics and calling out salmon to my friends using ‘walkie-talkies’ from canyon ramparts high above the water. However, my one reservation has always been the relatively modest size of Iceland’s salmon. To my mind, when it comes to salmon, big is beautiful. No doubt a psychologist could point to some sort of Freudian inadequacies on my part, but I know that I am not alone in liking my salmon big and nasty. Outsized brutes that do their level best to drag you into the river.
I was chatting to my old Icelandic mate Kristjan Raffnson one evening over a few glasses of beer and Brenevin. We first met on the Kola Peninsula and we both share a passion for big Atlantic salmon. The drink had loosened my tongue, and I had taken to mischievously teasing my friend about the relative size of the fish in his native homeland.
Kristjan gave me his lopsided grin and without a word, pushed a picture under my nose that shut me up in an instant. I was looking at a truly stupendous fish. Twenty-five pounds of brutish muscle wrapped in a dazzling chromesilver paint job, peppered with black spots and replete with a monstrous spade of a tail. It was a magnificent sight.
Iceland does have some truly gargantuan anadromous fish running its rivers, Kristjan confided, but mostly, they are not salmon. They are sea-trout. “Interested?” He grinned. He already knew the answer.
Viking seatrout
Long before the Norwegian Viking Ingolfr Arnarson came marauding across the wild north Atlantic to settle in Iceland way back in the year 874, the magnificent indigenous searun brown trout of this wild and bleakly beautiful island were rushing in from the ocean to invade its rivers and streams.
In a remote corner of Southeast Iceland close to the half-forgotten little town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, the Skafta river bounces down off the vast Vatnajokull glacier and meanders across the petrified Bruna Hraun lava field, part of one of Iceland’s three UNESCO world heritage sites. Above these endless moss-covered flatlands, an extraordinary upland landscape crowds the horizon, with craggy cliffs, vast glaciers and countless waterfalls everywhere you look. The Skafta is a big river, a milky torrent of opaque glacial meltwater, but from those same sheer mountains above, a clutch of crystal streams come tumbling down to meet it. At the junction of these various streams, the rivers combine to become the Vatnamot, (roughly translated as “waters meet” in Icelandic) and there are few if any finer sea trout fisheries in the Northern Hemisphere.
In autumn, as the moss fades to a washed-out rusty golden hue, and soft mists hang on the spectacular crags, this remote land is a breathtakingly beautiful place. At night, a million stars sparkle in the crystal skies, and if you are lucky, the Aurora Borealis may also paint its freakish magic across the heavens.
From August until October, legions of broad-shouldered sea trout ranging from lithe little beauties to hulking leviathans of close to thirty pounds come charging up the Vatnamot and then into the limpid waters of the Fossalar, the Horgsa and the Geirlandsa. These three rivers are all bewitchingly beautiful, but the upper Geirlandsa is out on its own as perhaps the most spectacular sea trout fishery in the world.
This beguiling little gem splashes off of the southern highlands before spilling over Hagafoss and into a canyon full of vast boulders and enchanted waterfalls. It is a surreally beautiful valley with an otherworldly quality that would make Tolkien blush.
By mid-September, in the cold, clear pools, double-figure sea trout
The takes are often abrupt and extraordinarily violent “
collect in numbers prior to spawning, and they can be caught with everything from riffle-hitched Sunray Shadows to big streamer patterns to tiny nymphs. There are few more beautiful places on earth in which to catch big sea-run fish on fly tackle.
Although the Geirlandsa is to my mind the undoubted jewel in this remarkable fishery’s crown, the Fossalar too is a sea trout fishing wonderland in its own right. Rising from a cold clear lake set high in the glacial moonscape to the north, it snakes under spectacular cliffs before meandering across the lava field and finally meeting the Vatnamot.
The Fossalar offers countless pools that are often stacked with prodigious sea trout. After rainfall, the fish become rabidly aggressive and will smash big streamer patterns with gusto. However, when Iceland is gripped by an occasional dry spell, they can become tricky. Creative anglers can still tempt these capricious fish by employing delicate nymph tactics and even dry flies, and for those willing to adopt these more subtle techniques, this fishing can offer a fascinating counterpoint to the simple smash and grab of “down and across”.
Unlike the intimate waters of the Forsela and Geirlandsa, the main artery, the Vatnamot is a broad watercourse, and when you first encounter it, it can feel like looking for needles in the proverbial haystack. However, locating the big sea trout is actually child’s play.
The fish like to sit under the seam where the opaque glacial waters of the Skafta meet the clear waters of the Geirlandsa and the Fossalar, and once you know this, it’s simply a case of identifying areas where the waters come together in areas deep and slow enough to hold fish. Stand close to the seam and swing your streamer fly through the colour change, holding it in the seam for as long as you can. One other thing…hang on tight. When they come, the takes are often abrupt and extraordinarily violent.
At the risk of repetition, It is important to be flexible. Depending on conditions, the fish will respond to a wide variety of techniques, from swinging streamers to upstream nymphing, but allow the fish and not your personal preferences to dictate the technique you employ. In low water, these fish can be fickle, but for those willing to adapt to conditions, the
fishing can be hectic. Sometimes very hectic indeed. Under the watchful tutelage of Kristjan’s excellent guides, one young British angler managed an extraordinary 47 fish in just five short days of fishing in September 2022.
A sanctuary
Kristjan has made it his mission to protect and nurture this special fishery. Since acquiring the fishing rights over the last couple of years, he has imposed a strict 100 per cent catch and release policy and the already impressive catch numbers are set to burgeon in the years to come.
Kristjan has centred the fishing around a converted farmhouse - Battle Hill Lodge - which is Iceland’s first lodge dedicated specifically to sea trout fishing. The lodge is beautifully appointed just a stone’s throw from the Fossalar and it offers a comfortable base from which to access the fishing.
The lodge is named for Battle Hill - Orustuhóll in the native tongue. This little geological oddity is typical of Southern Iceland’s eccentric topography: a tiny hill that sits all alone in the vast Bruna Hraun lava field. Orustuhóll is named for a long-forgotten tenth-century skirmish where a notorious Viking warlord, Hróars Tungugoði came to grief. It is a spectacular spot.
Just to the east, the gargantuan Vatnajokull Glacier looms over the sprawling lava field, and on a clear day, it sparkles in the autumn sunshine.
The lodge offers easy access to the Fossala, Vatnamót, Geirlandsa, Jónskvísl, Tungulækur and Grenlækur rivers, which are all capable of throwing up twenty-pound sea-run brown trout, as well as char and salmon, which are almost considered a nuisance when targeting the big sea-run trout.
The lodge is not fancy by Icelandic standards, but it is comfortable and has an easy, convivial atmosphere that I really enjoyed. Breakfasts are a hearty affair that leave guests well-fortified for the long day ahead. Evenings are spent recounting the stories of the day over rib-sticking suppers and a few bottles of something good, punctuated by dashes into the yard to watch the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
In my three visits to Battle Hill, I’ve experienced some sensational battles with these indomitable fish. One wild evening on the lower Vatnamot, fishing with Kristjan Raffnson springs to mind...
Kristjan was standing on the high cut bank nursing a hip flask - MY hip flask! - while I was wading the wide waters of the river. We were trading banter and enjoying the atmosphere of the evening when suddenly, I experienced a wrenching take, and a huge, silver sea trout clambered into the darkening autumn sky.
“Run!” shouted Kristjan. I laughed. “How’s that going to work?” I countered. “I’m up to my waist in the river!” I was, too - in the fast-flowing waters of the icy Vatnamot river and fully twenty yards from the riverbank.
The big chrome fish threw another big cartwheel in the crisp autumn air. Then he turned tail and headed for the sea. I watched my fly reel emptying fast. Very fast.
“You have to get out of the river and RUN!!” urged Kristjan. He was serious.
I stumbled precariously to the shoreline and slithered up the treacherous black sands. With the rod still bucking wildly in my hand, Kristjan pulled me unceremoniously up onto the high flat plateau five feet above the river. Then we were running breathlessly downstream in pursuit of the fish.
Backing was still cascading wildly from the big reel “
trout, with a number of different rivers that can be fished inside a major watershed.
Backing was still cascading wildly from the big reel and I glimpsed the metal arbour through the rapidly thinning gel spun. “It’s going back to the sea!” I spluttered, as I stumbled and fell. “I know!” laughed Kristjan as he helped me up. “That’s what they do! Welcome to sea trout fishing in Iceland!!”
These fish do not disappoint - they are spectacular fighters and almost invariably jump the moment they are hooked. If you hook one when it’s fresh from the sea, it will be ocean-bright and chrome silver, but the fish very quickly colour to a deep mahogany to blend with the black sand that carpets the river bed, making these magnificent fish look more like outsize resident browns.
Instantly redolent of the wild northern ocean
This one was chrome, and she was as wild as the wind. After fully four hundred breathless yards, I finally saw my running line reappear way out in the wide waters of the Vatnamot. After some last desperate fireworks from our adversary, Kristjan managed to bundle the fish into his landing net. I stumbled over to my friend and found myself looking down at a magnificent silver sea trout gleaming in the gathering gloom of what was now the long autumnal twilight. What a fish! Eighteen and a half pounds. I have rarely seen a wilder, more indomitable creature.
Matt Harris with a brutish 18lb fresh-run sea trout from Battle Hill Lodge. It hit the fly, soared briefly above the water and then headed straight back to sea.
I studied the iridescent ice-blue sheen on the fish’s gill plates. Its transparent fins and rock-hard chrome fuselage were also instantly redolent of the wild northern ocean. I carefully cradled the beautiful hen for a quick picture, and then, as I relaxed at last, she twisted abruptly out of my grasp and was gone. I felt utterly elated. I thanked my old friend and we celebrated with what was left of the Tullamore Dew in the flask.
Then we bounced back over the moonscape in Kristjan’s Land Cruiser as the stars started to sparkle like diamonds in the darkening sky, and arrived back at the lodge to find that talented Czech guide Maros had topped my fish with a twenty-one pounder on his afternoon off. What a place!
While I was admiring the pictures of Maros’s fish, two other brilliant young guides, Jerome and Mats casually sauntered in and declared that the Northern lights were dancing across the sky. As I stood in the old Battle Hill farmyard with a big glass of single malt and a bunch of kindred spirits, sharing banter and laughter as the Aurora swirled overhead, it was hard not to pinch myself.
Never mind Salmo Salar. South East Iceland is a seatrout fisher’s paradise.
Matt Harris will be hosting two weeks at Battle Hill Lodge in September and early October 2024. If you are interested in fishing with Matt, get in touch via
mattharris@mattharris.com www.mattharrisflyfishing.com
Matt Harris’s new book “The Fish of a Lifetime” is a 656 page collection of flyfishing stories and images from around the world. It is now available at www.thefishofalifetime.com
The best waders in the world are made by anglers in Bozeman, Montana. From a blank roll of GORETEX fabric, the same hands that double-haul sink tips and stroke drift boat oars cut, sew, and tape every wader that bears their mark.
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.
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.
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.
The TIZIP® brand stands primarily for durability and optimal functionality. Depending on the zipper type, its waterproof and pressure-resistant properties are secured via the pressing together of a sealing lip at the point of the interlocking zipper elements or via the pressing together of sealing lips above and below the zipper coils. Numerous TIZIP® features have been patented and are subject to continuous development in the process of identifying new and interesting areas of application.
Microban International, Ltd. is the global leader in antimicrobial additives and odor control solutions. Our enduring antimicrobial technologies work to eliminate damaging microbial growth on products and surfaces without impacting aesthetics or functionality. Our portfolio of Microban® and AEGIS® odor control solutions also provide extended freshness and hygiene for textiles.
Simms’ highest-tech, hardest charging wader — the USA-made durability and unmatched comfort to the remote coordinates and unforgiving conditions you call home.
Extended
Dual zippered stretch woven chest pockets for quick access to fishing necessities
Zippered, high-pile fleece lined handwarmer pockets for storage and warmth
Built-in, lower profile belt loops for enhanced strength and durability
Patented front & back leg seams for enhanced mobility and increased durability
Patented 2mm abrasionresistant built-in gravel guards
Patented compression-molded stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot fit/lace bit
FABRIC TECH:
UPPER: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX PRO
LOWER: 4-LAYER GORE-TEX PRO
STOCKINGFOOT & GRAVEL GUARD: 100% NEOPRENE
Low profile, adjustable spacer mesh suspender package. Dual interior waterproof zippered pockets for totally submersible protection.
Simms’ long-standing, award-winning G3 Stockingfoot and Pant with an exciting update to the material package, improved fit, and an enhanced feature set while remaining the most comfortable, reliable, and performance-driven wader ever.
Double snap closure with TIZIP® waterproof fly zipper.
Patented abrasion-resistant built-in Gravel Guards. Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish.
Top access zippered stretch pocket plus zippered, reach-through micro-fleece lined hand-warming chest pocket
Updated material lamination package with even more durable, breathable, and comfortable Gore-Tex Pro Shell 3-layer upper and 4-layer lower
Adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system with a fabric suspender divider
Patented front & back leg seams deliver articulated fit, improved mobility, and increased durability
Abrasion-resistant built-in Neoprene Gravel Guards
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
Built-in low-profile back belt loops with high and low options; 1.5 inch stretch nylon belt included.
WADING BELT 2” - SIMMS ORANGE, CAMO CARBON, CAMO OLIVE DRAB
Constructed with 50mm/2” wide elastic webbing and a low profile side release buckle // Adjustable from 30” to 52”(76 - 132cm)
5-mm neoprene provides comfortable alternative to standard wading belts // Holds shape when tight for safe-wading // New heavy-load buckle for added strength & safety // 5 cm high density neoprene with a hook-&-loop side adjustment
WADING STAFF ALUMINIUM - BLACK
Lightweight yet highly durable 7075 aluminum tubing with coated stainless steel cable and ribbed closed-cell foam handle // Simple yet firm deployment opens and closes in seconds // Extended closed-cell foam handle for multiple grab heights
TRU® Zip waterproof self-healing zipper for 100% waterproof-submersible protection // Touch-screen compatible clear window allows access to electronics without entering the pouch // Large size accommodates
RETRACTOR & RUBBER TIP - BLACK
RETRACTOR: Braided Spectra cable is extremely strong Extends up to 3 ft. // Connects to both Wading Staff strap & sheath. RUBBER TIP: StreamTread™ rubber tip grips between rocks & crevasses //Perfect for hike-to-fish applications // Quieter in the water than aluminum tip
WADING BELT 38MM - AVALON TEAL
Constructed with 38mm/1.5” wide elastic webbing and a low profile side release buckle // Adjustable from 30” to 52”(76 - 132cm)
TIPPET TENDER POCKET - BLACK
Keep your tippet, tools and flies handy and organized with Simms’ requisite zip-in wader pocket. Lightweight yet durable 210-denier nylon ripstop construction // Dual entry zippers allow easy access to main compartments // Exterior stretch mesh pockets are secured by
Guide Classic Stockingfoot is a time honored, durability-first, fundamental performer featuring 3-layer GORE-TEX, the perfect blend of breathability and comfort. It’s a get-back-to basics wader if your version of “basic” hinges on uncompromising performance and durability. Assembled and individually tested in our Bozeman, Montana facility.
Attached sewn-in Tippet Tender™ pocket with retractor docking station & tippet spool sleeves included
Reach-through hand warmer chest pocket with zippered top stash pocket
Built-in low-profile back belt loops with high and low options; 1.5 inch stretch nylon belt included
Reinforced lower legs with GoreTex 4-layer laminate construction
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
FABRIC TECH: UPPER: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX PRO LOWER: 4-LAYER GORE-TEX PRO STOCKINGFOOT & GRAVEL GUARD: 100% NEOPRENE
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION
> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS
> ANATOMICAL STOCKINGFOOT
Loaded with smart features and built for years of abuse, breathable, mobility-friendly Freestone Z Stockingfoot waders come equipped with a convenient zippered construction for easy on/off and quick relief when nature comes knocking.
Stretch elastic suspenders with Simms custom opposing male and female buckles
Upper chest pocket array features dual side-access stretch-woven zippered storage pockets, micro-fleece lined handwarmer pockets and integrated loop fly patch
Dual fleece-lined handwarmer pockets
Patented front and back leg seams deliver articulated fit, improved mobility, and increased durability
Patented, abrasion-resistant, built-in Gravel Guards
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet
FABRIC TECH:
4-LAYER TORAY® QUADRALAM UPPER & LOWER STOCKINGFOOT & GRAVEL GUARD: 100% NEOPRENE
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION
> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS
> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT
The ultimate wader for your almighty dollar, the Freestone Wader Range has been refined through years of testing and tweaking and is infused with decades of Simms wader DNA for a determined daily driver — regardless of where you fish. Available in the colours: Smoke and Midnight.
Stretch elastic suspenders with Simms custom opposing male and female buckles for easy waist-high conversion
Upper chest pocket array features a top access stretch woven storage pocket, micro-fleece lined hand-warmer pockets and integrated loop fly patch
Built-in Tippet Tender Pocket
Hip pockets allow for quick access to essentials
Dual rear belt loops; 38mm stretch elastic wading belt included Gusseted & zippered fly improves fit & ease of on-off
Patented front & back leg seams deliver articulated fit, improved mobility, and increased durability
Abrasion-resistant built-in Gravel Guards
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
FABRIC TECH: DURABLE AND BREATHABLE TORAY QUADRALAM 4-LAYER UPPER & LOWER
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION
> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS
> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT
The best value in wading, the Tributary collection from Simms features every ounce of Simms high-performing wader DNA in an affordable package. Breathable & comfortable waterproof polyester 3-layer upper & 4-layer lower.
Custom Duraflex buckles throughout
Built-in Tippet Tender Pocket
Reach-through fleece lined hand-warming pocket with zippered top stash pocket and integrated fly patch
“Whoa-now” grab handle built into the back of wader to hold kiddos close when they wade too deep
Single rear belt loop with 38mm non-stretch wading belt
Built-in Gravel Guards with gathered elastic bottom hem
Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish
FABRIC TECH: BREATHABLE & COMFORTABLE WATERPROOF POLYESTER 3-LAYER UPPER & 4-LAYER LOWER
> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION
> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS
> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT
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.
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.
FOR THE ULTIMATE IN TRACTION AND COMFORT
The most advanced wading boot on the water, G4 PRO Powerlock Boot offers supreme durability and superior grip thanks to state-ofthe-art materials working in lockstep with the new Powerlock cleat system for on-the-fly traction customization.
Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off
Molded TPU heel counter for comfort and in-stream ankle support
Dual density EVA midsole for comfort
Vibram Idrogrip outsole with built-in Powerlock system for quick and customizable traction adjustment
synthetic Lorenzi scratch leather upper combined with waterproof synthetic mesh for long-term durability
TECH: OUTSOLE- VIBRAM® IDROGRIP RUBBER; UPPERHIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT SCRATCH LEATHER
TECH: OUTSOLE- 12MM FELT WITH BUILT-IN POWERLOCK SYSTEM; UPPER- HIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT SCRATCH LEATHER
fabric eye stays allow finetune adjustments across the top of the foot and provide reliable durability
Powerlock System for quick and customizable traction. Includes two sets of cleats: 14 G4 PRO Powerlock Aluminum Cleats. 14 G4 PRO TPR Cleats.
WADING BOOTS
A guide-quality felt-soled wading boot that provides the support, traction and durability you need to negotiate varied river beds and the trails that get you there day in and day out. Time spent on the river is knowledge. And the more time you spend on the river, the more your gear needs to perform at a high level. Our G3 Guide™ Wading Boot is designed with working guides in mind.
TM
Collar height integrates with gravel guards on all Simms Stockingfoor waders
Waterproof nubuck leather & Lace‐to‐toe upper
Molded external TPU heel counter & heel clip
12mm heavy duty felt sole
FABRIC TECH: VIBRAM IDROGRIP OUTSOLE
FABRIC TECH: TPU OUTSOLE PLATE FOR STUD AND CLEAT RETENTION
ESS plates for improved cleat retention & proprioception
High abrasion textile with full scratch rubber rand
Large scratch rubber rand for enhanced durability
Dual‐density midsole for shock absorption
The key to powering through the obstacles of a river system is great footing. The rugged, responsive Guide BOA Boot stacks agility and stability in your favor with maximum Vibram traction and an exacting BOA-lacing system fit.
Rubber toe and heel overlays for added protection
12mm synthetic felt outsole provides great traction
Full TPU coated upper for durability
TPU outsole plate for stud and cleat retention BOA Fit System to dial into fast, effortless, precision fit
FABRIC TECH: TPU OUTSOLE PLATE FOR STUD AND CLEAT RETENTION
FLYWEIGHT® ACCESS BOOT VIBRAM SOLE
Vibram Idropgrip Lite - exclusive to Simms - provides the highest grip possible // Lightweight, non-absorbent mesh uppers // Welded TPU overlays in high-abrasion areas for added durability // Supportive, but lightweight and comfortable webbing lacing hardware across the foot // Full closed-cell neoprene foam lining
FLYWEIGHT® BOOT VIBRAM SOLE
Low-profile, lightweight synthetic boot upper // Welded TPU film in high abrasion zones for durability // Speed lace hooks & lace-toe closure // High cushion dual-density EVA midsole for comfort // Stud-compatible 4.5 mm Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole
FLYWEIGHT® BOOT FELT SOLE
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
SOLE FREESTONE® BOOT FELT SOLE
Waterproof, synthetic scratch leather upper with toe and heel reinforcement // Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off Dual density EVA midsole for a comfortable ride underfoot // Updated rubber outsole package is compatible with Simms Hardbite Star Cleats, Hardbite Studs and Alumibite Star Cleats
Waterproof, synthetic scratch leather upper with toe and heel reinforcement // Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off // Dual density EVA midsole for a comfortable ride underfoot // 12mm felt outsole is fully compatible with Simms
TRIBUTARY BOOT RUBBER 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
TRIBUTARY BOOT FELT SOLE
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
CHALLENGER® 7” BOOT Vulcanized rubber outer with neoprene lining // Simms proprietary rugged deck outsole provides grip and traction on all surfaces // Simms Right-Angle footbed for all-day support // Pull-on loop for easy on and off
FLATS SNEAKERS 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
ZIPIT II FLATS BOOTIE RUBBER SOLE
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
Technical wet-wading socks. Built-in gravel guard sheds water, gravel and muck // Silicone print grip inside gravel guard to help keep it in place // Reinforced lace hook keeps guard from lifting in strong currents Pewter
NEOPRENE WADING SOCK
Constructed using 2.5mm abrasion-resistant neoprene in the upper, and perforated 2.5mm neoprene underfoot for drainage // Anatomically correct left and right patterning for superb fit and easy don/doff Steel
Pull on the Bulkley Bootie before slipping into your waders for added comfort and warmth in the coldest conditions. Hybrid nylon ripstop and stretch-knit PU fabric construction for easy don and doff // Low profile, fully insulated construction patterned for use inside of stockingfoot waders in cold water conditions // Stretch knit collar and microfiber outsole for comfort and durability
Features include a nonslip, contoured design that forms a surefire seal, a loop wrap with Velcro closure, and textured nylon jersey on the underside of the gravel guard for enhanced durability
Constructed using 3.5mm abrasion-resistant neoprene in the upper and gravel guard, and perforated 3.5mm neoprene underfoot for drainage // Anatomically correct left and right patterning for superb fit and easy don/doff // Fold down gravel guard includes boot hook for security
Includes M2 replacement knob & wire lace for easy lace system replacement in the field // S-M lace length: 100 cm, fits boot sizes 7-10 // L-XL lace length: 110 cm, fits boot sizes 11-14
Custom cleats to provide extra in-stream traction when paired with the G4 PRO Powerlock Boot // Includes 14 cleats; enough for one full pair of boots // Durable aluminum/TPU hybrid construction to balance in-stream grip and long-term durability // Includes custom drill bit for installation
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
HARDBITE™
High quality denier nylon laces for increased lifespan // Feeds easily through boot hooks and eyelets // Laces measure 74” (188cm) long
Custom cleats provide protection for Powerlock docking ports on the G4 PRO Powerlock Boot outsole // TPR construction is flexible and boat deck and raft friendly // Cleats should be installed in the outsole when Aluminum Cleats are not installed to provide protection for cleat docking ports // Includes custom drill bit for installation // Includes 14 cleats; enough for one full pair of boots
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
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.
STUDS
HARDBITE™ STUDS FELT
ALUMIBITE™ CLEAT
HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT
G4 PRO POWERLOCK™ CLEAT - ALUMINUM
G4 PRO POWERLOCK™ CLEAT - TPR
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.
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.
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.
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.
Polartec® Thermal Pro® fabric provides superior benefits over traditional fleece - Warmth without weight, highly breathable, fast drying, durable, easy care.
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.
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, month-after-month.
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
2 zippered chest pockets
Stretch Shingled, no-catch watertight cuff
High-vis center hood panel
UPPER SLEEVES SHOULDERS AND HOOD
GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL - 80D 100% NYLON W/ C6 DWR / 100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER; BODY AND UNDER SLEEVES - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL - 70D 100% NYLON W/C6 DWR / 100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER
The iconic G3 Guide Wading Jacket is the perfect blend of mobility and fishing utility. Lightweight guaranteed dry 3-layer GORE-TEX® combined with the first-ever 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro with stretch will move you through the elements with purpose. Durable, breathable, and comfortable GORE-TEX® Shell 3-layer through the body with GORE-TEX® stretch panels strategically placed to move with every dynamic cast. The fabric feels tough to protect from the rain and durable to hold up to any weather mother nature tosses at you.
Left chest pocket has loop front patch to store flies
Zippered stretch-woven pocket on interior of wearer’s left chest and dump mesh pocket on interior of wearer’s right chest
Jacket length from collar to hem hits just below the waist to pair with waders and is versatile for on deck performance
Articulated sleeves and key stretch panels across the back enhance mobility. Shingled, no-catch watertight cuffs
FABRIC TECH:
LOWER FRONT AND BACK BODY - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX - 70D 100% NYLON WITH DWR/100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER; SIDE HOOD, UPPER BACK, SHOULDERS, UPPER SLEEVES, CHEST POCKETS AND UNDER ARM PANELS - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX - 40D 100% NYLON WITH MECHANICAL STRETCH AND DWR/100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER
The Simms® CX Fishing Jacket is a pursuit driven, angler designed, 3-Layer waterproof workhorse. Built so you can keep your head in the game and keep cranking in any condition. Waterproof, breathable, dialed. Engineered to outlast the others.
3-point point adjustable storm hood with high front clousure
Center front zipper backed with waterproof storm flap
Dual horizontal chest pockets constructed with TRU® Zip waterproof self-healing zipper for 100% submersible pocket protection
Vertical zippered handwarmer pockets, interior stretch woven left zippered chest pocket with sunglasses chamois
Articulated sleeves with safety reflective hits and a hook and loop adjustable cuff
FABRIC TECH: MAIN BODY: 3 LAYER WATERPROOF BREATHABLE: FACE: 53% ATY NYLON, 43% NYLON 6.6, 4% SPANDEX, MEMBRANE: 30K WATERPROOF, 15K BREATHABLE, BACKER: 20D NYLON TRICOT
Kick the snot out of the cold, wet and unforgiving with the ultimate waterproof, Guide Insulated Jacket and Bib. Rugged GORE-TEX fabrics and PrimaLoft® insulation deliver leading on-the-water performance, keeping you dry and warm across a full range of surly fishing conditions.
Rugged GORE-TEX shell for 100% waterproof protection combined with PrimaLoft® insulation for reliable warmth
Insulated and adjustable storm hood for warmth and protection from the elements
TRU® Zip submersible chest pockets keep essentials secure and dry
Two handwarmer chest pockets and an outer zippered chest pocket to secure essentials
Ankle zippers and bottom cuff closure for easy on/off when wearing boots
Fully seam-sealed
FABRIC TECH:
JACKET // CHEST, LOWER BODY HEM & ELBOWS - 2-LAYER GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 90D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. HOOD, SHOULDERS, BACK AND FRONT BODY - GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE
TECHNOLOGY - 80D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® SILVER HIGH LOFT 80G IN BODY / 60G IN HOOD AND SLEEVES. LINING - 47 GSM, 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER TAFFETA WITH DWR.
BIB // SEAT, KNEES & BACK OF LOWER LEG2-LAYER GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 90D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. BODY, BACK OF LEGS & FRONT OF LOWER LEG - GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 80D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® SILVER HIGH LOFT 80G IN WAIST AND SEAT / 60G IN CHEST AND LEGS. LINING - 47 GSM, 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER TAFFETA WITH DWR.
When you’re ready to chase the biggest and brightest through the season’s coldest and harshest, the Bulkley sets the insulated-jacket standard for premium warmth meets unwavering wet- and windy-weather protection.
3-panel hood with 3-point adjustable stretch cord to lock out the cold and rain. The brim is bonded to cinch and protect
Exposed YKK center front water-resistant zipper is backed by an internal storm placket, finished with a soft brush tricot zipper guard
Two water-resistant hand-warmer pockets for deep wading Zippered pocket on the upper right arm to store on-water essentials
Two vertical chest pockets, and an interior mesh dump pocket
Trap the warmth with PrimaLoft® Silver insulation, lined with a comfortable, breathable polyester
FABRIC TECH: SHELL - 2-LAYER GORE-TEX - 75D 100% POLYESTER WITH PFCEC FREE DWR INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® SILVER 100G BODY, 60G SLEEVES, HOOD, COLLAR LINING - 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER 30D TAFFETA
Black Jacket includes two water-resistant hand-warmer pockets for deep wading, two vertical chest pockets, and an interior mesh dump pocket. Exposed YKK center front water-resistant zipper is backed by an internal storm placket, finished with a soft brush tricot zipper guard. Articulated sleeves with safety hook and loop adjustable cuff.Built to obliterate fierce-weather obstacles, the waterproof, hooded Challenger Insulated Jacket and Bib come kitted with toasty PrimaLoft® Rise insulation for above-and-beyond warmth, in a lightweight, easy wearing package.
Zip-off removable hood, built with high speeds and driving rain in mind features 3-point adjustability
The freestanding, adjustable collar is lined with brushed tricot for warmth and comfort. The center-front zipper is protected with an exterior velcro storm flap
Vertical left chest pocket with tethered sunglasses chamois and welted right chest pocket, both with zippered closures
Adjustable suspender straps cushioned with an air mesh harness for comfort and a highback panel for insulated waterproof coverage
Lower legs feature an interior gaiter cuff to keep water and snow out
FABRIC TECH:
JACKET // SHELL - 2-LAYER TORAY 100% NYLON 70D WATERPROOF WITH DWR. INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® RISE INSULATION, 133G BODY, 100G SLEEVES AND COLLAR, 80G HOOD. LINING - 100% POLYESTER TAFFETA
BIB // SHELL - 2-LAYER TORAY 100% NYLON 70D WATERPROOF WITH DWR. SHELL OVERLAYS - 100% 6.6 NYLON 2-PLY OXFORD WEAVE, 275 GSM, BACK SEAT, PILER POCKET, KNEES, HEM. INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® RISE INSULATION, 100G LEGS, 80G UPPER BODY. LINING - 100% POLYESTER TAFFETA
Hook and loop tab cuff closure.
Modified sleeve construction for enhanced comfort.
Snap flaps located on each shoulder to secure safety ice picks for hard water use.
3-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
FABRIC TECH: 3-layer GORE-TEX - 70D 100% nylon with DWR/100% nylon tricot backer
100% waterproof/breathable protection // YKK® water‐resistant zippers // 3‐point adjustable, tuck‐away Storm Hood // 2 zippered chest pockets // 2 micro‐fleece lined hand‐warmer pockets // Oversized collar // Cohaesive™ cord management system at hood & hem
FABRIC TECH: 3‐layer GORE‐TEX® PRO Shell;100% nylon face;40d ripstop/ body;70d ripstop/reinforcement zones.
Black, Striker Grey
3-layer Toray® laminate for waterproof, breathable protection against any storm mother nature presents // Single point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain // YKK® water-resistant front zipper with storm flap // Waist-high zippered hand warmer pockets with micro brushed tricot liner and drain holes, built for wading
FABRIC TECH: 3-layer Toray®; 100% nylon with tricot backer
100% waterproof/breathable protection // YKK® water‐resistant zippers // 2‐way, full‐length leg zippers // 2 top‐load thigh pockets with plier sleeves // 1 zippered chest pocket // 2 micro‐fleece lined hand‐warmer pockets // Adjustable lower leg hem
FABRIC TECH: 3‐layer GORE‐TEX® PRO Shell;100% nylon face;40d ripstop/ body;70d ripstop/reinforcement zones.
Adjustable storm hood rolls up behind collar // Zippered chest pocket with interior sunglasses chamois // Reflective logos for increased visibility on and off the water // Drawcord bottom hem with kill switch d-ring attachment // Hook and loop closure cuffs
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Polyester 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR. Lining: 100% Polyester
Bright Blue
Roll away adjustable storm hood // Inner neck gasket with gusset and drawcord closure // Submersible front dump pocket Neoprene cuff and hem with hook and loop closure // Reflective logos for increased visibility
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Nylon 3-layer Toray® w/ DWR Collar and cuff gaskets: Neoprene with polyester jersey knit.
Two hand warmer pockets and zippered chest pocket // Beltloops with kill switch d-ring attachment // Cargo pocket with drop-in plier pocket and drain holes // Hook and loop cuffs with long zippered ankle zips for easy on and off // Reflective logos for increased visibility on and off the water // Side zip entry
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Polyester 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR. Lining: 100% Polyester
Jacket: Adjustable hood // Single flapped chest pocket // 2 zippered handwarmer pockets with drainage // Pant: Lightweight and packable 2.5-layer waterproof breathable nylon with DWR rain protection and mechanical stretch movement // Stretch waistband with zipper fly, featuring a D-ring for kill switch anchor
FABRIC TECH: Body fabric- 2.5-layer Toray® 50D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR
Black, Steel, Regiment Camo Olive Drab
Black, Midnight, Regiment Camo Olive Drab
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: GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS 100% nylon 2-layer with DWR
FALL RUN
HYBRID HOODY
This hybrid hooded insulator is built with 100% recycled polyester ripstop with a DWR finish for water resistance, combined with fleece panels in the side body and underarms for stretch and mobility
FABRIC TECH: Body - 100% recycled polyester ripstop with DWR, 58gsm. Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco Insulation, 60g body, and hood, 40g upper sleeves. Lining - 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR, 47 gsm
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 PFCFree DWR
Upper front and back body feature internal quilting, providing a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets
FABRIC TECH: Shell - 58 gsm 100% recycled polyester ripstop with DWR. Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body and hood), 40g (sleeves). Lining - 47 gsm, 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR.
Internal quilting on upper front and back body provides a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets and internal chest zippered pocket on wearer’s right
FABRIC TECH: Shell - 1.71 oz./yd.2 (58gsm) 100% recycled polyester-ripstop with DWR; Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body and hood), 40g (sleeves); Lining - 1.39 oz./yd.2 (47 gsm) 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR
Cold-day mastery (minus the bulky catastrophe), the ExStream® Hooded Jacket is powered by hardworking PrimaLoft® insulation for knockout warmth that punches above its weight.
FABRIC TECH: Body - Toray® pre-quilted stretch fabric - 30D 91% polyester, 9% spandex with durable water repellent finish. Insulation: PrimaLoft® Silver Thermoplume w/ Cross Core™ technology - 200g fill rate throughout.
Internal quilting on upper front and back body provides a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets and internal chest zippered pocket on wearer’s right
FABRIC TECH: Shell - 1.71 oz./yd.2 (58gsm) 100% recycled polyester-ripstop with DWR; Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body) and hood), 40g (sleeves); Lining - 1.39 oz./yd.2 (47 gsm) 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR
Designed for effortless integration under waders or bibs.
FABRIC TECH: Body Upper and Sleeves - Toray® pre-quilted stretch fabric - 30D 91% polyester, 9% spandex with durable water repellent finish. Lower Body - 240 gsm 47% nylon, 36% polyester, 17% spandex hard face fleece with anti-pill and durable water repellent finish. Insulation: PrimaLoft® Silver Thermoplume w/ Cross Core™ technology - 200g fill rate throughout.
Forest, Chestnut, Navy, Black
Clay, Black
Black
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!
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.
HEAVYWEIGHT BASELAYER HOODY AND BOTTOM
Top: Snug hood protects face from the elements // Cuff thumbs // Asymmetrical zipper to reduce friction
Bottom: Smooth jacquard face with grid-fleece backside // Flat elastic waistband and fly pouch designed with minimal seams
FABRIC TECH: 190 gsm 96% polyester, 4% elastane micro grid fleece finished with antimicrobial + moisture management; Lower Legs - 88% polyester, 12% elastic
Stone, Black
Top: Smooth faced grid-fleece layers provide maximum warmth // High collar with a quarter length zipper
Botttom: Tapered hem for a streamline fit when wearing layers underneath and over top // Dual slash handwarmer pockets
FABRIC TECH: Body - 255gsm 93% polyester, 7% elastane finished with antimicrobial + moisture management
Compression-resistant Polartec® Power Stretch® double layer fleece with durable water repellent // Stretch waistband, cuff and stirrups to keep in place when wearing under waders or bibs //Adjustable waist // Stretch hand pockets
FABRIC TECH: Body - 539 gsm 92% polyester (76% recycled polyester), 8% spandex Polartec® Power Stretch® Heavyweight Solid Velour/Velour Recycled Odor Resist finish.
Woodland Camo, Black
Quick-dry, jersey knit polyester combined with sustainable odor control for maximum next-to-skin comfort // Flatlock seam construction for next to skin comfort // Top features Raglan sleeves for optimal fit and movement
FABRIC TECH: Body - 192 gsm 92% spun polyester, 8% spandex finished with HeiQ Fresh odor control + HeiQ Speed Dry
BIB
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
FABRIC TECH: 89% Avra® polyester, 11% elastane, 150 gsm with moisture management and anti-microbial treatment
Sterling, Carbon
COOLING BOXER BRIEF
Abrasion & odor-resistant fabric // Grid-fleece interior // Stretch-woven stirrups // Center front, 2-way zipper // YKK® corrosion-resistant zipper // Thermo-laminated zippered chest pocket
FABRIC TECH: 95% polyester/5% spandex; Pocket: 85% nylon/15% spandex Raven
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
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.
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. 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.
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.
Swiss Tech Inside. HeiQ Fresh, sustainable odor control, is a fully bio-based odor control technology that meets USDA Biopreferred requirements.
Allows stains to be removed easily during normal laundering. Grabs stains and prevents them from sticking to the fiber, allowing them to easily wash off during soaking or washing.
brrro technology has three unique cooling effects that combine to immediately and continually reduce the temperature of yout skin. More specifically, the Triple Chill Effect combines the power of cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to enhance dryness and comfort while also working to reduce temperature.
SINGLE HAUL CAP
PACKS // Keep tools, tackle, snacks, and other essentials close at hand while fishing and tote-in supplies for remote expeditions with SIMMS packs. Put everything you need at your fingertips without compromising your movement or comfort while casting. These rugged, water-resistant, or waterproof fishing backpacks are designed for any adventure. SIMMS packs are ergonomically designed storage accessories that include hip, chest and fly-fishing sling packs up to voluminous fishing backpack models ready for the demands of big wilderness. Use as a fishing day pack for a day spent on your favorite local river to guiding clients on weeklong trips in the backcountry, count on SIMMS packs to store your must-haves ready at hand.
BAGS // Duffels, dry bags, and whatever else is needed to get packed and ready for your next fly fishing adventure. Waterproof? Oh yes! Simms offers a variety of great, thought-through products that will help you get what you need to have the best possible experience on the water from point A to point B.
VESTS // Seasoned anglers are always looking for the best gear to add to their fly fishing arsenal. Insert the SIMMS fly fishing vests. You never know when conditions on the river are going to change—or when you’ll find yourself scheming up a new casting strategy right there. Come prepared for anything—and stay cool and comfortable the whole day through—in a SIMMS fly fishing vest, stacked with 24 pockets to fit all your tackle and personal items. You’re a lean, mean, on-the-go angling toolkit when you’re wearing one of our fishing vests, which combine conveniently situated storage options with great stretch, breathability, ventilation, and padding.
CORDURA® fabrics are durable and stretchy, soft or cooling. Whatever you need your fabric to do, find it with our fabric finder. Trending Fabrics. Free flow fabrics. Fabrics that push more. Recycled nylon. Fabrics for Every Project. Easy Fabric Search. Fabric for tough landings.
Experience the first-ever ever sliding, toothless, silent, dustproof, waterproof, and submersible complete zipper assembly. Build truly waterproof products that forge a new path and elevate the possibilities for your brand. Dream big or dream small. TRU Zip will take you there.
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. www.flyfisheurope.com
CAPACITY: 26 POCKETS, 4 D-RINGS
FABRIC TECH: 100% Nylon fabric with DWR finish; 100% polyester mesh lining
CAPACITY: 9 POCKETS
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Nylon, Mesh: 100% Polyester
Padded collar for all day comfort
Updated pocket array includes compression molded fly box storage pocket and easy access chest pocket keeps your phone secure
Two large horizontal lower pockets, four flapped hook and loop drop pockets and large zippered game pocket
Durable and weather-resistant nylon shell with breathable polyester mesh for comfortable travels
CAPACITY: 10 POCKETS, 1 NET D-RING, ROD HOLDER
FABRIC TECH: 100% Nylon Ripstop Shell Fabric; 100% Polyester Mesh
FLYWEIGHTTM VEST
CAPACITY: TWO QUICK-ACCESS DROP POCKETS, FOUR ZIPPERED
POCKETS AND TWO SMALL STRETCH MESH POCKETS, 1 REAR POCKET
FABRIC TECH: 150-denier robic
FLYWEIGHT BACK PACK
CAPACITY: 30L
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled 600D Polyester with backside PU coating
Liner: 200D Polyester
Single-entry backpack main compartment provides 15 liters of long-term storage
Front vest array includes two quick-access drop pockets, four zippered pockets, and two small stretch mesh pockets
Spacer mesh back, side and chest panels provide padding and breathability in warm conditions
Dual mesh pockets on the backside offer storage for rod tubes or water bottles
FLYWEIGHT VEST PACK
CAPACITY: 15L BACKPACK, AVAILABLE IN S/M AND L/XL
FABRIC TECH: 150-denier robic nylon with HDPE yarns and DWR coating
G3 GUIDE® BACKPACK
Waterproof Non-submersible
G3 GUIDE® Z DUFFEL BAG
Waterproof Fully submersible
CAPACITY: 61 X 33 X 23CM / 50L
FABRIC TECH: Main Shell: 420D Nylon Double Ripstop with TPU coating; Liner: 200D Polyester
FREESTONE® BACKPACK
CAPACITY: 98 X 54 X 26CM / 30L
CAPACITY: 32 X 79 X 41CM / 60L
FABRIC
FREESTONE CHEST PACK
CAPACITY: 23 X 15 X 10CM / 3L
FABRIC
FREESTONE SLING PACK
FABRIC
Midnight,Pewter
CAPACITY: 43 X 22 X 20CM / 12L
FREESTONE HIP PACK
CAPACITY: 25 X 15 X 20CM / 5L
FABRIC
TRIBUTARY HIP PACK
CAPACITY: 35 X 23 X 10CM / 10L
FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner
TRIBUTARY HYBRID CHEST PACK
CAPACITY: 15 X 21 X 9,5CM / 6L
FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled 600D Polyester with backside PU coating Liner: 200D Polyester NEW
Black
CHALLENGER MESH DUFFEL
CAPACITY: 69 X 28 X 33CM / 60L
FABRIC TECH: 600D Polyester Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner
Camo
TRIBUTARY SLING PACK
CAPACITY: 38 X 22 X 12CM / 10L
FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner
TACO BAG
CAPACITY: 45L
FABRIC TECH: PU-coated 600 denier ballistic nylon
RIVERKIT WADER TOTE
CAPACITY: 42 X 51 X 30CM / 40L
FABRIC TECH: Body: 600D polyester w/backside PU coating; Mesh: 100% Polyester with PVC coating; Liner: 200D Polyester with PU coating
Black
OPEN WATER TACTICAL WAIST PACK
CAPACITY: 27 X 11 X 18CM / 5L
FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner
CAPACITY:
CAPACITY: 12L FABRIC
Waterproof
Waterproof Non-submersible
Midnight, Black, Simms Orange
DRY CREEK® ROLLTOP BACKPACK
CAPACITY: 30L
FABRIC
CAPACITY: 50L
FABRIC
DRY CREEK®
BAG - S, M, L
CAPACITY: S: 10L, M: 20L, L: 35L
FABRIC TECH: 210D Nylon Ripstop with PU Coating and DWR treatment
GTS SPEY VAULT
CAPACITY: 119CM L X 15CM W X 23CM H
FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Lining: 200D polyester and brushed tricot
GTS REEL VAULT
CAPACITY: 41CM L X 28CM W X 18CM H
FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Lining: 200D polyester and brushed tricot
GTS ROD AND REEL VAULT
CAPACITY: 83CM L X 23CM W X 15CM H
FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Face Pocket: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop with double-sided PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester w/ foam padding
Carbon, Simms Orange Carbon
GTS SINGLE ROD AND REEL CASE
CAPACITY: 86CM L X 6CM W X 15CM H
FABRIC TECH: Outer Shell: 1680D ballistic nylon & 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop
GTS DOUBLE ROD & REEL CASE
CAPACITY: 86CM L X 13CM W X 15CM H
FABRIC TECH: Outer Shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic & 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop
GTS ROLLER - 110L
CAPACITY: 80CM L X 44CM W X 38CM H
FABRIC TECH: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop w/double-sided PU coating Base: 1680 ballistic nylon; Lining: 200D polyester
GTS PACKING POUCHES - 3-PACK
CAPACITY: L: 36 X 25 X 16CM, M: 30 X 20 X 13CM, S: 20 X 15 X 9CM
FABRIC TECH: Body: 210D nylon CORDURA® mini ripstop w/ PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester w/ water-resistant PU finish
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GTS PADDED CUBE - SMALL, MEDIUM
CAPACITY: SMALL 15CM L X 10CM W X 9CM H // MEDIUM 30.5CM L X 14CM W X 15CM H
FABRIC TECH: Body: 210D nylon CORDURA® mini ripstop w/ PU coating; Lining: EVA foam padding and 200D polyester w/ water-resistant PU finish
100% neoprene construction keeps beverages cold for the long haul // Two webbing loops to accommodate attachment to 38mm or 2” wide wading belts // Adjustable webbing strap allows for around-the-neck carry
Durable EVA foam - resists deformation and provides constant pressure on the shank of a barbless hook for more secure hold. Durable EVA foam-resists deformation, strong memory for original form // Attach to any Simms vest with Velcro® back // Provides constant pressure on the shank of a barbless hook for more secure hold
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.
Keep nippers and other key fishing tools exactly where you need them with this guide-approved, tangle-resistant lanyard // Built from indomitable Dyneema cording, details include anodized machined-aluminum hardware, a stainless steel splitring attachment, and an adjustable fit for all-day comfort // Made in America.
Designed to keep tippet close-at-hand, the Tippet Caddy offers modular attachment and quick adjustment for headache-free rigging. No-frills design accommodates up to 6 spools of tippet from most manufacturers
Prep gear in advance or make micro-adjustments in the moment with tough, functional Flyweight Pliers - the go-to tool for both freshwater and light-tackle anglers. Unique ergonomic shape allows a variety of grips for anglers with hands of all sizes
Durable injection-molded nylon and stainless steel blade for clean line cutting // No-spring construction guarantees season-after-season of line cutting performance // Built-in lanyard attachment point // Not designed to cut braided line // Made in the USA
USA made machined-aluminum nipper with razor-sharp stainless steel jaws // Details include 6061-T6 machined aluminum arms and riveted, stainless-steel cutters // Made in America
Keep nippers and other key fishing tools exactly where you need them with this guide-approved, tangle-resistant lanyard // Built from indomitable Dyneema cording, details include anodized machined-aluminum hardware, a stainless steel split-ring attachment, and an adjustable fit for all-day comfort // Made in America.
Secure storage for your fishing license with accessories to easily display for authorities.
Embarking on a fly fishing adventure is a thrilling experience that connects anglers with the tranquility of nature. However, amidst the excitement of pursuing elusive fish in pristine river settings, it is crucial to recognize the significance of wading safely. The act of wading, or walking through the river, is an integral part of fly fishing, but it demands caution and mindfulness. Understanding the dynamics of river currents, assessing the riverbed terrain, and employing proper gear are vital aspects that ensure both the angler’s safety and the preservation of the delicate aquatic ecosystems.
Confident, more aggressive waders achieve better positioning when casting and going for the best drifts and because of this, catch more fish…fact. They’re able to move along those trickier banks, or get out to those islands and rarely-fished gravel bars safely and quickly. But, are you fit, strong, and capable enough to move through that piece of water confidently? Always consider your emergency exit if the water gets too deep, or currents too strong and consider where you’ll end up if you head off unexpectedly downstream. Staying safe while on the river (or when fishing in the fjords on cold winter days) is pivotal and a few important tips are therefore in order.
SIX TIPS ON HOW TO CROSS A RIVER PROPERLY
1. Take tiny steps and shuffle your feet across the bottom of the
river. As soon as you lift your leg the current will take hold of it - and if the current is strong enough - it will push it from under you. Once this happens, you will lose your balance and begin stumbling, most likely going under.
Look for gravelly sections of river bottom between the bigger boulders and stones. Slide your feet into position and work them in between the rocks and stones, rather than standing directly on top of them where they may roll causing you to tumble over. When wading in strong currents, always keep two points of contact on the riverbed at all times, i.e. one foot and your staff. Yes, always use a staff when wading rivers that you either a) don’t know in advance or b) you know to be slick, slippery and/ or dangerous due to structure or dramatic drops.
2. Place your staff down securely ahead of you, and walk to- and past your staff. Plant both feet and repeat. Pick out your path in advance, so you know which rocks you’ll walk around and where you plan to head, and if you pick a destination then chances are you’ll make it to that point.
3. Linking arms with your fishing buddies or guide is another great method. Put the larger built person above so they act as an anchor. Again, move slowly downstream with the current letting it gently push you along.
4. Wear a wading belt at all times. Wading belts are not perfect at preventing water from filling up your waders if you go under, but they are far better than not having one. Make sure your waders fit and are comfortable and don’t restrict movement.
5. Once you’ve decided the best place to cross, the general rule is to angle yourself downstream, allowing the current to gently push you along, but being careful it doesn’t take control of you. Move slowly, don’t fight the current, take it on your side, or even face up stream but never, never turn your back to river. Allow the current to help you gradually make your way towards the other bank.
6. Always look and have a plan where you will go if things turn bad mid-crossing, and avoid crossing immediately above treacherous water. Turn onto your back if you do manage to get knocked- or swept over and try to get your feet facing downstream as quickly as possible. This will help prevent any collisions with your head and any obstacles that might be in the river. The water will most likely be fairly cold so you want to get to the bank as quickly as possible. Pick an exit point on the closest bank and carefully paddle towards it.
The Simms wading staff is a must have, and offers support and stability on those trickier crossings. You will simply access more water with a wading staff safer, and with more confidence. It is compact, lightweight, quick to lock out and extend, and provides a solid, reliable aid for moving through the water, or along the bank. If wading particularly slippery rivers, consider a rubber tip for your staff. Always keep your wading staff upstream of you. This keeps your tipping point much higher than if you were leaning on it downstream, being pushed by a downstream current. It’s much easier to tip a large item over a low wall than a high wall, right?
Consider a mixture of Simms Hardbite tungsten studs for longevity, and softer alumibite studs for superior grip on slippery rocks. A mixture of both, positioned appropriately around the sole will give you optimum traction wherever you wade. Aluminum cleats are best with harder rocks and they’re softer compound provide superior traction. Star cleats provide a larger surface area while maintaining plenty of rubber contact to give the ideal grip. Simms Hardbite cleats are better for use on softer streambed structure and for piercing algae growth.
Choose wading shoes depending on where you’ll be fishing and invest in cleats or studs. They provide you with extra grip and traction when needed.
Wading essentials: a collapsible wading staff and wading boot-compatible studs/cleats for extra traction. That, and a healthy dose of respect and caution.
Correct fitting waders are essential both for providing unrestricted mobility and a full range of motion when moving around and over rocks and descending tricky banks. Waders that are more form fitting feature minimal excess material which can create drag in the water and offset your balance and momentum. And if the budget allows, then Gore-Tex waders are hard to beat.
A good pair of wading boots are equally as important as the waders. Many of the newer styles have the sticky Vibram soles with studs attached. These are great for river bottoms with algae covered stones. On more silty bottoms felt soles with studs, often provide the best traction.
On a final note if you don’t need to wade - DON’T! Always wade within your comfort zone. If you’re not sure or feeling unsafe simply don’t do it, stay on the rivers edge or bank and fish from there. Don’t take unnecessary risks, is that fish really worth it?
Leading design and performance, RODMOUNTS makes rod racks for all types of rods and reels.
The attempt has been made before with depressing results. Fly fishing for halibut, it seems, is for half-crazy, ingenuous dreamers only. Among them is fly fishing journalist and photographer, Rasmus Ovesen, who has travelled to Northern Norway in the hopes of hooking up with “the Queen of the Sea”.By Rasmus Ovesen Images by Rasmus Ovesen & Stina Didriksen
Some fishing plans are more stupid than others - on paper at least. To fly fish for halibut, clearly, is one of the more dubious ones; because how on earth are you going to catch a fish that has perfected, through millions of years, the art of ambush-attacking prey along the ocean floor – in the abysmal depths of powerful tidal currents and along craggy drop-offs out to sea?
I have hatched many terrible and half-witted fishing plans throughout my life. Most of them have never been realized. Those that have, on the other hand, have mostly ended up as thundering failures. Very few have been even moderately successful, but I remember them with the greatest of enthusiasm and joy. For what is more legendary than achieving (some form of) success despite all odds?
An idea is born
In June 2021, I’m fly fishing for seatrout in a handful of different fjords in Northern Norway. During my time there, I’m made aware of random catches of smaller halibut from relatively shallow areas and big specimens longlinefished from shore.
In the past, I’ve heard of people attempting to fly fish for halibut; with oversized equipment, express-sink fly lines and heavily weighted flies – and with minimal success. But, if halibut happen to show up in shallow areas close to shore at certain times of the year, it must be possible to effectively target them with a fly rod?
In between my sporadic catches of seatrout, my thoughts wander, and I see these imaginary halibut rise from the sandy bottom and abruptly inhale my fly. The images are still etched upon my mind as I return from my journey – and it doesn’t take long before I start researching the Internet.
The Internet – The playground of fools
The Internet is a dangerous place for those looking to amplify their existing beliefs (or delusions) – or for those looking for evidence in favour of dubious causes. Consequently, it doesn’t take me long to find a video from 2013 by a crew of Norwegian radicals that catch halibut on fly rods. The Norwegian title of the video roughly translates into; “When the impossible becomes possible” and the people in it would strike most outsiders as either eccentric or half-crazy. And even though they’re clearly blind-fishing in 10 – 20 meters of water with sparse and arduously earned results, I’m convinced that they’re on to something.
One of the people in the film is Tommy Josefsen, who’s a friend of mine. However, when I tell him that I’m secretly plotting to go fly fish for halibut, I’m met with very little encouragement. There are, as he carefully stresses, good reasons why he hasn’t fly fished for halibut since the YouTube-film was made. And they’re too many and too profound for him to list- and elaborate on them all.
I belong to the growing number of illiterates, who aren’t needlessly affected by other people’s experiences or empirics. Instead, I leave my destiny in the hands of the Internet, embrace a now famous Albert Einstein quote saying that: “If it’s on the Internet it must be true!”, and continue my Gonzo research without further ado. (The fact that Abraham Lincoln is quoted for having cautioned people to: “Never trust Einstein quotes on the Internet,” I’m smart enough to rebuff as malignant propaganda).
The big breakthrough?
Disturbingly, there is just that one relevant, on-topic film to find online. But then an interesting guide service pops up in my search feed. An eccentric British expatriate has clearly found a protected little fjord far north where it’s supposedly possible to locate and catch halibut in shallow water. The fact that he offers guided fly fishing for halibut can only mean one of two things: That he has, somehow, cracked the code or (more likely) is attempting to lure money out of the pockets of naïve and dreamy fly fishermen like myself.
After firing away the first email, things suddenly accelerate. A few email exchanges later I’m on the phone with a Jonny Stephenson, who – to my surprise – seems neither raving mad nor maliciously shrewd or conniving. On the contrary, he sweeps me off my feet with his British charm and with promises of a visually striking and periodically hectic halibut fly fishery in shallow water – if (and only if) the weather conditions are favourable.
The by-catches sharpen our concentration and make the pulse peak momentarily “ ”
A few weeks later, by the end of August, I find myself onboard a small airplane east of Tromsø. Immediately below me, a mighty snow-clad mountain range reaches upwards and at its foot, a glistening azure blue fjord reflects the cloudless sky as if it was a big, vibrant mirror. It seems as if, for once, the weather gods have finally sided with me, and – not surprisingly – it’s a particularly expectant and ecstatic Jonny that greets me at the airport upon arrival.
”Welcome! It looks like you brought the good weather”, he says, in his charming British accent. ”I brought much more than that”, I respond with a twinkle in the eye, but regret it immediately. Oftentimes, I’ve been able to explain away and trivialize my lack of success on previous expeditions with reference to unfortunate weather conditions. This time, however, it seems everything is up to me and my capabilities as a fly fisherman. The next three days will show who emerges as the victor: Me or the Queen of the Sea?
Later that day, I’m on the water with Jonny; a guy that proves to be a knowledgeable, experienced and pleasant boat partner. (The latter is never given in advance – and it can be a great source of concern and anxiety ahead of a multiple-day trip). Also in the boat is Jonny’s sweet girlfriend Stina, who is as mad about fishing as she is about hunting.
The Norwegian Fjords sometimes teem with fish. And during a day out, you’re likely to catch cod, coalfish, and mackerel. (All of which are prey to the mighty halibut).
Cod often frequent the same areas as the halibut.
An echo sounder is a must when looking for halibut.
After a short boat ride, we’re now sedately drifting a tidal channel and casting flies along a depth curve close to shore where abraded rocks, bladderwracks and sea lace are relieved by pure sand that gradually fades into the shimmering and mysterious depths.
Even with the 12-weight, casting my prototype halibut fly is an arduous task. It reminds me more of a party wig than a fly, and the sizeable Wiggle Tail, that I’ve mounted on the fly –along with a treacherous stinger hook, makes the fly produce a coarse hissing sound when cast across the fjord’s twinkling water masses – not unlike the sound a flag makes when pointed out the window of a speeding car.
Where are the fish?
We fish a rising tide for a few hours with no results. The only hits we’re getting are from sluggish cod and small coalfish. The bycatches sharpen our concentration and make the pulse peak momentarily. Disappointment, however, follows every time. And my doubts, which constantly simmer below the surface, are nourished and emboldened every time my expectations of a fiery-tempered, oversized flatfish are met with a cod’s indolent tail flaps or the subservient pulsations of a small coalfish.
Jonny soon realizes that his client needs a boost of confidence and motivation. He launches into vividly dramatic stories of halibut catches from the area and doggedly maintains that it’s only a question of time. But even though I’m dying to believe him, I’m finding it increasingly difficult to keep the faith.
I know from experience that when something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. I can’t abstract from the fact that there’s an infinity of water to cover – and so many unknown factors to overcome. And what are the odds, realistically, that a scarce bottom-dwelling giant of a predator - one that lies in wait in the depths of the ocean - should rise several meters to an insignificant fly?
There is lots of wildlife to see in Northern Norway. And the views are dramatic and spectacular.
Suddenly we’re seeing ominous, table-sized creatures under the boat “
Another few hours later we’re back at our starting point. We’ve returned to the tidal channel, and the water is now dropping. We cast like maniacs into 3 – 4 meters of water, but nothing happens – and soon the day is over. The sun is already dropping behind the craggy mountains to the west under a vaguely flaring violet-blue sky.
Then another bloody cod hits my fly. Frustrated, I haul it in as fast as I can. As it appears in the water below me, and I prepare to unhook it, chills suddenly run down my spine. Below the cod, a massive brown shadow manifests itself and the cod disappears into the jaws of its ghostly prowler. The water explodes and my fly rod bends to the cork while lengths of line disappear into the depths.
5 minutes later – after several lightning-quick runs we bring the halibut to the boat. It’s neither 30, 40 or 50 kilos, which I would
probably have sworn if it had somehow disappeared forever into the depths. It’s probably more in the vicinity of 10 kilos, but what formidable, muscular, and explosive 10 kilos!!!
A few snap shots later, we release the fish. It obviously doesn’t count as a fly-caught fish, but it provides me with a sorely needed saline injection and renewed hope and faith. There are clearly fish in the area, they’re actively feeding, and tomorrow I’m going to cast until I collapse in order to get one.
During our second day, we catch several smaller halibut between 3 and 6 kilos – in shallow bays and near estuaries and islands. Most of them hit the flies in the surface, right along the boat side, after having followed the flies, as if hypnotized, over a long distance. It’s incredibly visual and exciting, and I am now in a state of euphoria and relief.
My newfound belief now seems to shape reality, and - suddenly - we’re seeing ominous, table-sized creatures under the boat randomly appearing and disappearing like ghosts. We even see a giant halibut smash a sizeable coalfish to smithereens on the surface using its brown snow shovel-sized tail as a deadly club. (Suddenly, Jonny’s speculations that it might be possible to catch halibut on poppers seem far from crazy anymore).
My mission is accomplished, but the climax still awaits. Later, in the evening, we’re back at the familiar tidal channel, drifting outwards with the falling tide, and casting our flies into 3 – 5 meters of water. Then, at one point, Jonny’s fly rod arcs and I turn around to see what’s going on. “Cod”, he growls laconically in response to the cod’s lazy headshakes, and – as if it were some sort of command, I turn around to make another cast. In that very instant, the water explodes beneath me, and the fly line is almost ripped out of my hands.
An enormous crater-like whirl crashes against the boat and through its veil I see a big shadow rapidly disappearing into the depths. All slack line comes tight and suddenly the tormented snarl of the fly reel fills the air.
Even smaller halibut provide a great fight. For flies, white, chartreuse, black and baitfish colours worked well.
During the summer months you can fish all day long. It’s best, however, to fish the tidal cycles.
trip. More would follow...
Rasmus Ovesen with the first solid halibut of the
“
Later, they also started going for foam flies. It was epic!
An audience with the queen
An exhausting fight ensues. Time and again, we’re close to landing the powerful fish but every time it somehow evades the tail gaff, flaps its tail and heads irresistibly into the depths. One time, it heads right under the boat resulting in an unnaturally concave angle in my fly rod. A sharp riffle-like “boom” rips the air, and – to my great horror - the fish is now taught directly to the fly reel. My fly rod has broken in two right above the handle.
During the rest of the fight, I feel more like a local longline fisherman than a fly fishing globetrotter. I’m bursting at the seams with nerves a few minutes later as I pull the fish to the surface one last time. This time, it’s make or break!
Miraculously - in an eruption of water and sea foam - Jonny manages to tail gaff the fish. And with it firmly secured along the boat, we break out in loud cheers, hugs, and high fives!
We gently tow the fish a short distance to shore, measure it at 134 cm (an estimated 32 kilos) and shoot a couple of quick pictures. The fly is barely clinging on to a leathery flap of skin in the fish’ enormous, craggy mouth, and I can’t help but think that, if I hadn’t looked away when the fish attacked, I might have pulled the fly right out of its mouth from pure startlement and shock.
I hold the fish by its tail, then loosen my grip as the fish starts to show signs of wanting to swim away. In no time at all, the fish has changed its colorations and camouflaged itself against the shallow bottom. When it kicks off and heads for deeper water, it disappears almost disturbingly fast in the otherwise translucent and gin-clear water, like a fading dream that refuses to be captured.
One thing, however, is unequivocally obvious: My crazy dream has come true. And even though I missed that fateful moment when the Queen of the Sea decided to inhale my fly, I can just close my eyes and vividly imagine what it looked like. I’m a dreamer after all – and a dreamer’s powers of imagination are great!
In an eruption of water and seafoam, Jonny manages to tail gaff the fish “
Most of the halibut fishing takes place in less than 5 meters of water.
The Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) is the world’s largest flatfish. Its geographic range stretches from Canada and Greenland east towards Northern Europe and Russia – limited, mainly, to the arctic reaches but in some instances occurring all the way down to the 36th parallel.
Halibut are typically found in deep water (some scientists believe that they can be found down to 2 kilometres of depth), but they also appear in shallow water, particularly during fall and winter. Here, they settle in areas with sand, abraded pebble and rocks, clay, and scattered vegetation.
Halibut are fierce but slow-growing predatory fish that feed on everything from herring, eel and crabs to coalfish, trout, and salmon. They become sexually mature at the age of 7 – 10 years depending on the habitat, but they can live up to 60 years. And in the meantime, they can reach lengths of up to 3 meters and weights in excess of 300 kilos. Halibut are bottom-dwelling fish that ambush unsuspecting prey, but they are also known – on occasion - to hunt pelagically or in the surface film.
The world’s largest Atlantic halibut ever caught on a rod was landed by a German fisherman in 2004 – after a fight that lasted 1,5 hours. The fish weighed 234 kilos and measured 274 cm. In comparison, the largest Atlantic halibut ever caught on a fly rod is relatively small. It was caught by Jo Stephenson in 2016 in Reisafjorden, Norway, and was estimated at 44 kilos (147 cm). In the meantime, that fish has been topped by a halibut landed by one of Jonny’s clients in September 2021 – a fish estimated at somewhere between 65 and 70 kilos.
Halibut are targeted with the heaviest of equipment. I used a 9’ #12 Scott Meridian fly rod in combination with a Waterworks-Lamson Cobalt fly reel pre-spooled with 250 meters of 100 lb backing and a Scientific Anglers Big Water Taper S3/5/7 with a 100 lb core. The leaders I used were a little less than a rod’s length and ended in an 80lb tippet section. In terms of flies, I used imitations of herring and mackerel tied on powerful 6/0 – 10/0 hooks – preferably with stinger hooks and jig tails in the end.
Want to catch halibut on a fly?
Jonny Stephenson guides in the Reisa area, and you can book him via email: jonny@wild-pursuits.co.uk Additional information can be found here: www.wild-pursuits.co.uk
The right fly line for the job//
Drenched in various mixtures of tungsten powder, the Sonar Tital Triple Density is a series of fully tapered sinking lines that casts like floaters, but provides a straight-line sinking connection to your streamer. The lines proved perfect for chasing halibut along drop-off and along semi-shallow sand plateaus.
Keeping constant tension of the fly and setting the hook swiftly is pivotal - and the straight connection to the flies that the Triple Density Sinking Lines provide is key.
The S3/S5/S7 is perfect for fishing water that ranges from 3 - 10 meters.
Introducing the new Swing series of rods from Scott. Developed in cooperation with Flyfish Europe, and tested by an array of Scandinavia’s most hardcore anadromous fly fishermen. 14 models; single-, switch, and double-handers
Scott Fly Rod Company | Handcrafted in Montrose, Colorado
Scan
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.
Imagine a rod that casts tight high line speed loops effortlessly and turns over your leader straight into the wind; a rod that delivers the fly on target with just one false cast, and can pick it back up and redirect if the fish changes course; a rod that is intuitive so you can focus on the fish instead of your cast; a rod that feels light and alive in your hand and has the touch and feel needed to make short quick shots or float the fly in quietly. All that, plus a rod hand crafted with the very best components to ever grace a fly rod.
G-Series rods advance medium action fly rods with two innovations. We’ve reinvented the hollow internal ferrule to make it more flexible, stronger, and more than 20% lighter. We’ve also combined our cutting edge fiber and resin systems in the most advanced multi-modulus layups we’ve ever created. New multi-slope tapers were designed to take full advantage of the new materials layups. These rods balance lighter in hand, have much more stability through the middle of the rod for better tracking, and generate higher line speeds. They do all this while retaining the classic flex of your favorite medium action rods.
By carefully controlling the distribution of mass and stiffness, we created very light fiberglass rods that are stable and form sweet loops with just a few feet of line out of the tip. That way you can accurately cast into the next plunge pool or along overgrown banks even on creeks you can step across. That’s not something your graphite rods can do easily. We paired that performance with best in class components like Snake Brand Universal snake guides, Flor grade cork grips, titanium SiC strippers, and CNC milled reel seats, and then added our little touches like measuring wraps and alignment dots.
Wave rods bring together high line speed, exceptional loop control, and point-it-and-it goes-there accuracy. They feel light and lively in hand and respond intuitively to input from the angler. Wave rods easily handle a wide range of line densities and fly sizes, making them ideal tools for pursuing powerful fish in all fresh and saltwater environments. And when that pursuit turns into a hook up, Wave rods have lifting power to spare, helping keep fish out of structure or the depths.
One of the most versatile rods out there. “ “
A well-balanced, excellent performer. An absolute pleasure to cast! “ “
Most avid fly anglers are familiar with Salminus Brasiliensis - the extraordinary and unique freshwater dorado. Many know of the remarkable Tsimane fly fishery - the celebrated dorado fishery deep in the Bolivian jungle. However, fewer will know that long before this remote and magical fly fishery was discovered, the pioneering fly anglers of Northern Argentina were targeting the big, bruising dorado of their own local river.
By Matt Harris
The mighty Parana River is one of the prime places to target trophy-sized golden dorado. Swinging big streamers is the name of the game, but sometimes - when the water is clear enough - the dorado can be sight-fished.
Looking for pacu in the magins of the river. Pacu are herbivores and can be caught on imitations of fruit and berries.
The Parana is the birthplace and cradle of fly fishing for freshwater dorado. Itati, a humble farming village on Argentina’s remote northern border seems an unlikely spot to find a spectacular basilica, stretching fully eighty-eight metres into the sky. The vast dome of this extraordinary edifice wouldn’t seem out of place gracing the skyline of Florence or Sienna yet instead it stands sentinel over this scruffy and utterly unremarkable little one-horse town.
Religious pilgrims from all over the world flock here to worship at the Basílica Nuestra Senora De Itati, but the ‘duomo’ is also a revered landmark to those who make another long pilgrimage, to chase the golden treasure of the Parana River, that flows in its shadow.
The Parana meanders down out of Southern Brazil and winds its way across the endless plains of Argentina before emptying into the Southern Atlantic. It is a vast river - the second largest in South America, second only to the Amazon herself. Its broad waters teem with fish - surubi catfish, sabalo, pira pita, pacu and - of course - magnificent dorado that can reach thirty and occasionally even forty pounds in weight.
The fishing is challenging and varied. The dorado can be targeted by blind casting to trees and bankside structure, by swinging flies over midwater boulders and - best of all - by hunting them by sight on the shallow, clearwater flats in a style reminiscent of saltwater bonefishing.
The fish are no mugs. Occasionally they go on wild feeding sprees - most often around dawn and dusk - and catching them - even the big ones - can be like shelling peas. Mostly, however, they are a stimulating and satisfyingly challenging adversary.
Big baitfish patterns are the way to go, presented on anything from a full floating line to a fast-sinking shooting head. Expect to use a nine or ten-weight rod to allow you to really boss even the biggest flies and fish.
The local favourite pattern is the celebrated Andino Deceiver, but a number of large patterns that offer a large profile will get the job done. I like to use big, broad-shouldered patterns tied by my friend Tomek Bogdanawizc at Pike Terror Flies. I’ve caught a lot of apex predators with these patterns and they give me great confidence. Consider using one of Paolo Pacchiarini’s wiggle tail attachments to allow you to present an even bigger profile, particularly in deep water.
Poppers like James Christmas’s NYAP can work if you are willing to try them, and the takes can be explosive.
The dorado’s razor-sharp teeth mean that 60lb wire is obligatory, and the fish’s bony mouth means that hooks should be kept needle sharp. Make sure you keep a hook sharpener or diamond file close to hand.
The nights in the Argentinean jungle are magical, and the stars flicker intensely.
Pacu in the backwaters
As well as chasing the Parana’s spectacular dorado, the avid fly angler can also target the hard-fighting omnivorous Pacu as they patrol the backwaters and island lagoons looking for berries and fruits that have fallen from the riverside trees.
Flies are simple colourful silicon balls that mimic the various berries and fruits that tumble into the water from the bankside trees, and the technique is simply to drop your presentation close to the cruising Pacu and allow the ‘fly’ to free fall through the water column.
There is something particularly magical about fishing into the evening “
Despite their appearance, Pacu will astonish you with their turn of speed and extraordinary fighting prowess. They are well worth targeting and offer a stimulating diversion when the dorado are refusing to play ball.
Suinda Lodge
Be in no doubt - the dorado fishing on the Parana can be tough, especially when the river rises after rainfall in the headwaters. Long days in the heat can take their toll, but the rewards are surely worth it.
If you want to tackle these magnificent fish, take my advice. Stay at Suinda lodge, a five-star home from home offering crisp white sheets, frosty air-conditioning and all the sybaritic comforts you could wish for after a long hot day on the water. Suinda also offers some of the best food and drink that you will ever enjoy anywhere.
Pablo Calo and his excellent staff provide a warm, informal ambiance and keep your glass topped up with icy gin and tonic or delicious plum coloured Malbec. In the evening, laughter and the intoxicating aroma of roast lamb and thick flame-grilled steaks fills the air, as anglers share their tall tales from the river and recharge in readiness for another day’s battle.
The day is divided into two sessions, with a welcome postlunch siesta in between. Being out at dawn can be intoxicating, but there is something particularly magical about fishing into the evening,
Across the river, smoke billows up from the Paraguayan farmlands into the thick evening air, softening the sunset and lending the wide Argentinian skies a rich, rosy hue.
Matt Harris with his trophy golden dorado.
This is what people visit the Parana for; the chance of hooking into a truly monstrous golden dorado.
Behind us, the little town starts to light up in readiness for the oncoming night. Music is in the air, and the lights of Itati’s vast basilica sparkle in the gathering twilight, their reflections dancing on the darkening waters of the Parana.
Golden endings
Once more, I take up station on the bow of the skiff and do as my excellent guide Pablo advises, pitching my fly towards the thickly wooded banks of the island. I draw the line tight and bring the big baitfish imitation flickering back over the sharply defined drop-off, the deeper, darker water still visible in the low evening light.
“
Without warning, the line comes up abruptly and savagely tight. I set hard and all the long hours of casting and retrieving are suddenly forgotten as a huge golden dorado, that my imagination has barely dared to conjure, clambers up into the last golden embers of the day.
We go at it hard. Trusting my knots and the stout 60lb wire trace, I play the giant fish with ruthless intent, desperate not to lose it. The dorado rattles up into the air once again, a gleaming golden trophy tantalisingly out of reach. I say a silent prayer and cling on tight.
Slowly, my adversary’s bulldogging runs become shorter, less ferocious. The fish attempts to jump again, but it is a tired, laboured effort that tells me that I am starting to gain the upper hand. The fish attempts another surging drive for the sanctuary of the sunken trees, but I hold him hard and as he kites around, I get my first real look at him. There, deep in the bottle-green waters of the Parana is my prize - a sparkling great golden bullet of a thing that looks like no other fish on earth.
Pablo dips his cavernous landing net quietly into the water and after a few last, desperate lunges, I draw the fish to him. I hold my breath as our adversary makes one last bid for freedom and then, finally, he is ours.
Pablo lets out an infectious whoop of delight and congratulates me with a high five and a fierce hug. “It’s a beast!!” he cries. I peer into the net and marvels at our prize. A great hulking fuselage of twenty-four carat golden treasure - a mean malevolent killing machine.
Pablo holds the fish up for the camera and in the last golden rays of the sunset, it is a truly astonishing sight. This is the fish I have travelled over 6000 miles and made a million casts to catch. It has all been worth it.
Waterworks was formed in 1996 when fishermen who happened to be product designers figured a better way to release a fly-caught fish. The status quo, the hemostat, wasn’t good for the fish or the fly. Their solution was an innovative tool that allowed a fish to be released without handling, and the fly to remain intact. Named after their hometown in Idaho, they called the tool the Ketchum Release.
Those same fishermen were also bicycle enthusiasts and prior to forming Waterworks, had honed their skills in the world of high performance cycling, creating and patenting cutting-edge components and mountain bike suspension technology. Eventually turning their focus to the fly reel was a logical thing to do: Reels were, essentially, a wheel on a frame. Fly reels were heavy, overly complex and unreliable. They had slow retrieve rates. They caused line to coil and drag tension as line fed out. The designers wondered, ``what would the perfect fly reel look like?`` The ULA (ultra large arbor), the power arm frame, the conical sealed drag, the integrated counterbalance — all were the results of this early work and formed the basis of an enduring architecture.
In 1998, Waterworks acquired Lamson and, along with Waterworks Force reels, now had two brands sharing the core technology and design ethos of simplicity and function-driven styling. The line-up of reels has radiated into specialized niches over time: two handed, salt water, super-arbor, and rugged environments. The pursuit of inspired design and solid engineering has driven Lamson’s fly reel innovation for two decades, with no end in sight. Now, 28 years after its inception, the company is simply named Lamson; a name that still resonates with innovation and quality.
Centerfire is a double-edged sword perfectly suited for both single- and doublehanded fly fishing for Atlantic salmon and seatrout in torrential rivers as well as adrenaline-choked sight-fishing on shimmering flats and bluewater dropoffs. Centerfire is built to blend the strongest and most reliable structural and functional elements from over a quarter century of reel design—IPX8 waterproof rated Cobalt drag system, power arm frame, deep cross section radial spool spokes, large easy grip fluted drag knob and hard anodize to name a few. Centerfire has everything you need in a bomb proof saltwater reel and foregoes what you don’t all at a reasonable price. All drag components manufactured in the U.S.A and assembled in Boise, Idaho.
The silky smooth drag system lets you handle big chromers in heavy currents - and it has the stopping power to prevent explosive predatory flats fish from making it to the craggy reef edge.
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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.
A super arbor format, lightest-weight-in-class, space frame construction saltwater fly reel with the IPX8 certified waterproof Cobalt hybrid drag system.
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Use the force. Even lighter than the original, the Force SL Series II breaks its own record as the lightest machined reel on the market. This evolution in the Force Superlight reel lineage includes an even larger arbor to increase line retrieval and decrease weight. Plus it has an enhanced CNC machined structural development and more fluid, refined styling. Since coming onto the scene in 1997, the Force reels have pursued what we feel is the Holy Grail of fly reel performance: delivering the highest possible ratio of retrieve rate to reel weight. To this end, while other super arbor reels add weight in order to gain speed, Force reels maintain their featherweight specification by being pure muscle and bone.
For
the lightest rods and the most finicky of trout on everything from dry flies to nymphs and streamers.
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.
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.
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.
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. “ “
Steadfast and stylish, Guru has long set a standard for enlightened excellence as a rugged, fully USA-machined, and ultra-reliable reel at a great price. By increasing the arbor to a larger diameter and making the spool narrower—all the while decreasing its total weight and parts—Guru S takes it to another level. An enhanced spool machining technique—focusing material only where it’s needed—makes this version significantly lighter and higher performing than its predecessor. We’ve opened the porting to reduce weight and improve line drying, and integrated the counterbalance. We even introduced a curved cross-section for structural stability. Taking your game to fishing nirvana, this will be your Guru for life.
The Guru S series builds on the highly popular Guru reel encorporating placid and organic design features that, not only reduce weight, but also add in strength in the most important parts of the reel structure.
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Liquid Max features our Cobalt Drag System: a fully U.S.-made, stop-anything drag system with proprietary Teflon alloy drag cone, Carbon PEEK thrust washers, custom self-lubricating seals and a Certified IPX8 waterproof rating. We’ve housed this drag in a pressure cast and machined frame and spool, with features that include Ultra Large Arbor, integrated reel foot and pocket spar frame and spool design that maximizes strength-to-weight ratio. Top it off with a large, easy grip drag knob you have a reel that will change your mind about bullies.
Nobody Likes a Bully. Anyone who says this hasn’t experienced the new Liquid Max, a bully and a beast of a reel.
The ultimate hybrid. A fusion between the free-form structures of a cast spool and the mechanical integrity of a CNC-machined case, Remix S is the ultimate hybrid. Machined from bar-stock aluminum, the case delivers maximum structural rigidity and durability all wrapped in a harder, brighter finish. The spool (compatible with Liquid S), is pressure-cast with pocket spar design and increased strength-to-weight ratio. Remix S improves on the legacy of the first-generation Remix with larger diameters, larger arbors, greater strength, and a larger, easy to grip drag knob. Remix S brings an unmatched level of quality in its class. The result is high performance. Reliability. Quality assurance. Plus, undeniable looks.
All water performance with a sealed drag that lets you fight fish with confidence - all wrapped in a CNC- machined case.
More Liquid courage. When creating the first-generation Liquid, we focused purely on the virtues and advantages a pressure-cast process can offer. With the second-generation Liquid S we take these advantages to a higher level. Liquid S has larger diameters, larger arbors and increased strength-to-weight ratios that come from the unique pocket spar frame and spool design. The arbor shape has been redesigned for cleaner spooling, and the drag knob is now larger, and if we can say it, “gripier”. Liquid S carries the Liquid name to a higher level.
If you’re looking for a spare reel or just the right quality-to-price ratio for getting started fly fishing, there’s no other reel on the market like the Liquid.
Automated production meant the quality of hooks could be trusted. “
Back in the 1800s, Mustad emerged in the Norwegian town of Gjøvik. Ole Mustad took on a wire-producing factory and made his dream a reality. His journey through time, fueled by the commitment and ingenuity of both a dedicated team and the global community of enthusiasts, has become a testament to the determined spirit that defines Mustad.
Beating the odds
Picture the mid-1800s, a period steeped in economic gloom. Amidst this adversity, together with leader Ole Mustad, Mathias Topp conceived a vision that aimed, and succeeded, in changing the fishing industry. Having dedicated years to the production of nails and wire, the Mustad factory near Gjøvik was poised for a transformation - the birth of a new era in hook craftsmanship.
The Hook Maker
Topp envisioned a machine where steel wire entered on one end, only to emerge on the other as a masterpiece of high-quality hooks. In 1877, “The Hook Maker” materialized. Fearing mimicry by competitors, Mustad masked the creation in secrecy. Blueprints were carefully protected, and the details of the machine remained a mystery to the public.
The confidentiality wasn’t without reason. The Hook Maker wasn’t just a contraption; it was the key to Mustad’s intense growth in fishing globally. Mustad dispatched a team across the globe. Their mission: to unveil the needs of fishing hooks in all corners of the world and utilize “The Hook Maker,” returning modernized hooks to the source with unparalleled strength, consistency, and affordability.
Going Global
The quality and pioneer spirit of the company soon made Mustad’s name a household name in the fishing world, representing 50% of the world’s fishing hook production in the 1950’s and continuing to be the world’s largest fish hook manufacturer. This might explain why to this day, the word “mustad” simply translates into “fishing hook” in many corners of the world— a testament to the enduring mark left by Mustad on the art of angling and legitimizing the brand’s expertise in the making of fishing hooks.
As Mustad dived into the artistry of fly hooks, communities dedicated to tying embraced the range, becoming a driving force to propel innovation and ushering in a modern era of fly tying. The evolution of fly hooks blossomed into a collection of today’s iconic selection, celebrated by fly tiers crafting patterns for an array of flies and targeted species. With the advent of automated production, a groundbreaking assurance emerged for tiers — for the first time, the balance and weight of hooks could be trusted.
As Mustad perfected fly hooks, tying communities took a liking to the range and supported the innovation and modernization of fly tying. The development of fly hooks grew into a range of legendary hooks known well among fly tiers across all types of flies and targeted species. Automated production meant to tiers that for the first time, the balance, weight and quality of hooks could be trusted.
For over a century, Mustad not only perfected fly hooks but also curated a selection of flies meticulously handcrafted by some of the world’s most skilled tiers. Year after year, these designs garnered accolades, etching Mustad’s presence in the annals of fly tying. Though the era of Mustadtied flies has past, the tradition endures as top-tier fly artisans continue to choose Mustad for their creations.
The evolution of Mustad fly hooks into notoriety owes much to the continuous development of technologies and the prevailing trends in the industry. This progression began when Mustad made the first fly hook with its automated production back in 1877 then to introducing unmatched point technology to fly fishing, starting with UltraPoint 4.3 over a decade ago and leading up to AlphaPoint 4.8 today.
Together with experienced tiers and anglers, Mustad continues to grow and develop hook technologies and styles that evolve with the times and techniques, culminating in a family of fishing hooks that match the legacy of Mustad’s enduring, trustworthy traditions.
DEFINITIVE STYLE
INSTINCTIVE PERFORMANCE
WEIGHS NOTHING, DOES EVERYTHING
UNLIKE MOST INDUSTRY PLAYERS WE DON’T USE TURN-KEY FLY ROD FACTORIES. WE SOURCE, DESIGN AND COACH OUR BESPOKE MANUFACTURERS TO CREATE TRULY REMARKABLE FLY RODS. WE MAKE FLY FISHING RODS THAT STAND OUT FROM THE PACK BY PERFORMING TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS, NOT BECAUSE WE GOT WRAPPED UP IN SOMEONE ELSE’S PIXIE DUST THEORY, BUT BECAUSE WE CUT THROUGH THE MARKETING BS AND WE HAVE FORMULATED DESIGNS THAT WEAVE TECHNOLOGY THAT MATTERS INTO A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF HOW A ROD CASTS, MENDS, PLAYS FISH AND FEELS ON THE WATER … AND THAT, OUR FRIENDS, IS THE ART SIDE OF THE EQUATION.
See the full range at www.flyfisheurope.com/primal/
XL size caddisflies whet the appetite and curiosity of many trout. Even when insects are sparse on the surface, a stripped Grandis can be a winner on the river or trout lake. Here, renowned Swedish fly tyer Håkan Karsnäser explains how to tie his popular dry fly treat.By Peter Lyngby Images by Morten Valeur
There are approximately 1700 species of caddisflies in Europe, and worldwide, almost 15,000 insects belong to this family. In comparison, we only have just over two hundred different mayfly species along European rivers and lakes. Like the mayflies, including the large mayflies, the hatching of the largest caddisflies usually peaks in June. Among fly fishermen, the spectacular mayfly fishing tends to attract a lot of attention, but the fish are not blind to the caddisfly treats, which are usually seen in the late evening when the mayfly fishing has died down. The imprint of such large insects skittering awkwardly on the surface may be stored in the fish’s memory for later use, or perhaps the trout are simply opportunists who don’t let a potentially energy-rich snack float by unnoticed. Either way, the large caddis flies are present until September and October, where they can be fished both as imitations or as attractor flies that can provoke violent strikes on the surface of the river or trout lake when fished blindly and actively.
The characteristic serrated and backward-facing wings of the caddis are well known in fly fishing, such as the classic Europea 12 of French origin and the famous Swedish Streaking Caddis, which is an imitation of the large spiral caddis - the largest of our local caddis species. In Latin, the large spiral caddisfly is called Phryganea Grandis, which is why the insect is often simply referred to as Grandis among fly fishermen and fly tyers. Among the supporters of the large caddisfly is the versatile Swedish fly tyer Håkan Karsnäser, who has received much praise for his own Grandis imitation. - The mission with my dry flies is usually based on making them durable and ensuring good buoyancy. This also applies to Grandis. Like many others, I often fished Streaking Caddis, which can be quite effective in trout lakes, but I wasn’t entirely satisfied with its floating properties, which rely solely on the deer hair head. So about three years ago I started experimenting with CDC feathers for the Grandis, and after a visit to an Italian fly-fishing fair I got inspired by the Italian style of tying with deer hair. I also tried different versions of lacquered feathers for the wings. Of course, the lacquered feathers don’t add much to the floating properties, but they do enhance the profile and the illusion of the caddis’s distinctive wings. I ended up using partridge wing feathers for the wings, as the wing feathers are naturally stronger and more flexible than the bird’s other feathers, says Håkan Karsnäser.
Big flies’ beckon Grandis has already spread across Scandinavia, the fly has gained several loyal fans who enjoy its attraction well into the fall.
- If you experience hatches of the big caddis flies, it goes without saying that Grandis is worth keeping in the box, but the fly is also well worth trying when the insect life slows down and the fish’s instincts need a little extra warming up.
In both rivers and trout lakes, blind fishing with a striped Grandis can be the thing to do, and the fly also attracts big fish to the surface on days without much insect life or at the end of the season. In the river, you can let it swing across the current or slowly strip it to get the fly moving on the surface. The same applies in the trout lake, where it’s important to adjust the retrieve so that the fly mimics a stranded caddis. When the giant Grandis comes streaking across the shiny surface, there’s a good chance of a spectacular trout strike. In fact, we had a great hatch of Grandis already during the test period, which was completely outside the caddis season, says Håkan Karsnäser.
Spring fly variants
Although Grandis is designed to mimic the largest caddis flies, Håkan Karsnäser occasionally varies the pattern to imitate the smaller specimens. If you’re fishing dry throughout the season, he recommends trying to tie a series of variations while you’re already tuned in to caddis proportions. - My original Grandis is quite a large dry fly. I tie it on a size 6 long shank hook and the whole fly is usually 3.5-4 centimeters long. However, the pattern can easily be scaled down to smaller caddis imitations. I also make Grandis using the same recipe in size 8, but when I make smaller caddis flies, I use other birds’ feathers for the wing. There are many options depending on the desired size and color, but I always use the wing feathers to ensure the durability of the fly. Hackle and body feathers rarely last and break too often during fishing. The deer hair head is best suited for the slightly larger dry flies, and for the smallest caddis flies I spin CDC feathers for both the head and body. The CDC feathers are magical, and sometimes I just spin whole CDC feathers for the body and leave out the seal wool. Unfortunately, the feathers are in high demand at the moment due to bird flu, so it can be difficult to find good quality in the shops, explains Håkan Karsnäser.
Tying tips
Grandis is a simple fly in terms of the number of materials. If you ask an experienced fly tyer like Håkan Karsnäser, Grandis is also easy to tie. Especially when compared to the smallest dry flies in the box, which require more skill at the vise. However, as with many simple flies, it’s important to focus on the right proportions, and a few technical grips are important to master.
- The right tools and good quality materials are half the battle. First and foremost, make sure to choose quite thin and soft deer hair for the head. Otherwise, it will tease in the dubbing loop and give a slightly clumsy result. As some of the tips of the deer hair should be left in the finished fly, it is of course also important to be precise with the length of the hair when placing it in the dubbing loop. To give the fly the right silhouette of a caddis, it is also essential that the wing has the right profile. Make sure to choose matching wing feathers from both of the bird’s wings, so that it’s basically a mirror image of the feathers you end up tying in as a roof on top of the CDC feather. It takes a bit of practice to choose the right size feathers, as they become a little slimmer after painting. The procedure is to apply a little varnish on both sides of the feather and then slowly pull the wet feather through two fingers so that it tapers slightly before it dries. You may want to try this first by simply wetting the feathers with water instead of the varnish. It’s easier to watch the fly-tying video than to explain. When dubbing the body, I would recommend using Marc Petitjean’s Magic Tool. These simple tools are an invaluable help when combining and preparing several materials for the same dubbing loop, concludes Håkan Karsnäser.
Grandis are primarily evening and night active and usually hide during the daytime.
Good quality materials are half the battle “ ”
The best symmetry on the wings is achieved by making them from matching partridge wing feathers. Varnish the feathers with a bit of fly tying varnish.
Attach the tying thread to the hook shank and prepare a dubbing loop at the back.
1 2 4 5
Prepare and place seal wool in a dubbing clamp.
Secure the materials and cut off the CDC feather stems.
3 6 7 8 9
a
Spin the mixture in the dubbing loop and wrap it to just under 3/4 of the length of the hook shank.
Tie in the two partridge feathers separately so that they form a roof on top of the CDC
Place
Trim the body with scissors to a
that is slightly thicker at the
Trim off all excess materials and make a dubbing loop with the tying thread. 10 11 12
Grab a suitable amount of deer hair with a clamp
Cut off the deer hair, then place it in the
Tie in natural brown CDC feather so that it lies on top of the body. feather. Create a base for the head of the tying thread and prepare a dubbing loop in front of the wing. tool. dubbing loop. both CDC feathers in the dubbing clampon top of the seal wool. conical shape back.
Hook: Ahrex Dry Long FW
570 #6
Thread: Black GSP
Body: Brown seals fur or similar and natural sand-colored CDC
Wing: Natural brown CDC and partridge feathers
Head/thorax: Deer hair
Scan to watch instructional video
Spin deer hair in the dubbing loop and wrap it tightly like the fly’s head.
Trim the deer hair with scissors. First close to the underside and then the profile on the sides and top, leaving a bit of the tips of the deer hair.
The FlyLab Glide reels are at home in a saltwater environment or tiny spring creek, and synonymous with the Fly Lab collection as they punch well above their weight while giving so much bang for your buck. (Available in Black 9/10; Orange 7/8; Olive 5/6; Gunsmoke 3/4)
Fully machined frame and spool from 6061 aircraft grade aluminium
• Large surface area disc drag design
Type 2 anodised for durability and corrosion resistance
• High impact anodising colours
The FlyLab Focus is a one-size custom european nymphing reel designed to balance longer rods, not catch a euro line in the frame and spin freely for fast retrieves.
• Fully machined frame and spool from 6061 aircraft grade aluminium
Fully caged frame design to improve balance and prevent thin euro lines from slipping between spool and cage
Free running disc drag system so reel can be spun to collect line without having to wind the handle
• Low capacity v cut spool design to compensate for low diameter Euro lines
When you’re wanting that extra drag output to put some Acid on those big fish then this reel is a solid starter. (Available in Black & Silver 5/6; 7/8; 9/10)
• Sealed drag system with stainless and ceramic stacked drag for low start up inertia and high output
• Machine finished Die Cast Aluminium frame and spool
• V Cut spool for added line capacity
Low profile reel foot for improved balance
If reliability is your middle name then this may be the reel for you. Well priced, super sweet design and ever dependable, the FlyLab Exo reel has become a staple friend for many anglers. (Available in sizes 5/6; 7/8)
• Machine finished Die Cast Aluminium frame and spool
Large surface area disc drag design
• Soft touch handle
When you just need a functional tool to get the job done then grab a FlyLab Surge and get out there. Lightweight, tough, and slick looking - the Surge is the price pointed reel that punches well above its weight. (Available in 5/6 & 7/8)
Die-cast aluminum frame and spool
Vented large arbor design
• Soft-touch handle
It's not enough to make the world's clearest sunglasses. We're growing a community, and making the world a better place along the way. We're Bajío. Located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Named for the flats (bajíos) that we love. Join us. Fish more. See stuff.
In comparison to the top 5 fishing sunglass manufacturers, Bajio blocks significantly more bad blue light than anyone else, and the same or better as the other high performance lenses when it comes to harsh yellow—all while allowing in good light and brilliant color.
In the rainbow of light spectrum, harsh yellow light interferes with color definition, ultraviolet (UV) light contributes to cataract development and skin cancer, and bad blue light scatters when it enters the eye resulting in haze and visual blur. Bajío lenses are purpose built to combat these negative effects from the sun’s rays.
Our eyes have specialized color receptors called cones that only process red, blue and green light (RGB). The science behind making the clearest lenses on the planet is to manage the light that stimulates the cones for optimum visual clarity. Using proprietary LAPIS™ technology developed by our optical experts, Bajío lenses block 95% of bad blue light (up to 445 nm), the majority of harsh yellow light (at its peak of 580 nm), and 100% of UV light. The result: No more hazy days, no more color interference and better protection of the eyes.
LAPIS™ LENSES
TRANSMITS RED LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION AND COLOR DEFINITION
BLOCKS 90% OF HARSH YELLOW AT 580 NM FOR HIGH COLOR DEFINITION OF RED, GREEN AND BLUE
TRANSMITS GREEN LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION AND COLOR DEFINITION
TRANSMITS GOOD BLUE LIGHT FOR COLOR DEFINITION AND EXCEPTIONAL CLARITY
BLOCKS 95% OF BAD BLUE LIGHT UP TO 445 NM: NO SCATTER - NO HAZE - NO BLUR - PROTECTS THE RETINA
BLOCKS 100% OF UV LIGHT - PROTECTS THE EYE AND SURROUNDING SKIN
When the sun’s powerful rays enter our atmosphere, they come at us in all directions, reflecting off every object they strike. When these rays hit water, they reflect strongly causing glare which not only interferes with our vision but also makes spotting fish nearly impossible. Before polarized sunglasses, traditional dark-tinted sunglasses were used to reduce the amount of light in all directions, but the glare was still there. With polarized lenses horizontal light rays are absorbed, but vertical light waves still pass through. Bajío lenses essentially work like venetian blinds to eliminate glare, increase depth perception and contour—so not only do you see things better in the water, but you also see things from further away on the water (a key technology for sight fishing).
LAPIS™ LENSES
While polarization and bad light blocking are key lens technologies, understanding light transmission and base colors is also important in selecting the appropriate Bajío lens for specific light conditions and fishing environments. As mentioned above, one function of polarized lenses, is that they limit the amount of light that reaches the eye. Visual light transmission (VLT) measures just how much light enters the lens versus how much is blocked. If the light transmission of a lens is below 9-9.5%, they are not suitable for driving because they are too dark. Most sunglass lenses start around 10-11% percent transmission. Generally the blues, greens and darker colors will have very low light transmission made for high light situations. Then there are mirrors. Many polarized sunglasses intended for anglers also have mirror finishes. In addition to looking cool, these finishes also reduce light transmission by up to 2% and help manage annoying reflections from the water.
LAPIS™ LENSES
Designed to directly relate to light transmission, Bajío’s polarized sunglass lenses come in a wide range of colors and mirror finishes. The trick is understanding what colors work best for what conditions, or more accurately, what level of contrast is best for your fishing situation. For example, Gray-base colors are going to be very low contrast meaning everything appears as it does naturally, just darker. In the middle, between low and high contrast, are our Silver Mirror (copper base) and Rose Mirror (red base) lenses. The Rose Mirror lenses are a little bit brown and a little bit red. If you can only choose one pair, this is a solid middle-of-the-road option. On the other end of the spectrum, are high contrast lenses from the brown color family (which can range from brown to copper to amber to red). The more amount of red color in a lens, the more contrast. High contrast amber, copper, or rose based lenses work great for sight fishing and looking down into the water column to spot fish against the bottom, no matter the color of the water. We don’t build our lenses for watercolor, we build them for light conditions.
LAPIS™ LENSES
Bajío’s polarized sunglass lenses are made with either glass or polycarbonate. Which is the superior lens material? The short answer is both—each has its benefits that anglers can weigh based off a few factors. Glass is harder and offers mirrors within the lens that cannot be scratched, which is great for wild, action-packed battles. However, glass is heavier. Polycarbonate lenses are impact resistant, scratch resistant and lightweight, which makes a big difference for long days on the water. You can’t go wrong with either, but most anglers have a personal preference depending on what’s more important to them, lightweight or scratch-resistance.
Bajío lenses are designed to help you see clearly in all light conditions. Each lens color is created specifically to give the angler optimum performance in any environment and weather scenario.
// bio-based nylon frame
FRAMES MADE FROM PLANTS
EASILY COMPOSTABLE STRONGER AND LIGHTER THAN PLASTIC DOES NOT HARM THE ENVIRONMENT
// flex hinges
HIGHEST QUALITY
LIGHTWEIGHT
FLEXES IN-AND-OUT TO FIT YOUR FACE
// barrel hinges
HIGHEST QUALITY LIGHTWEIGHT STRONG
// vented rubber side shields
// ergo-textured rubber temple tips
ALL-DAY COMFORT
MAXIMIZES GRIP
BLOCKS PERIPHERAL SUNLIGHT
PROMOTES AIRFLOW
KEEPS YOU COOL
// integrated sun ledge
INTEGRATED FRAME ELEMENT ON THE SIDES AND TOP OF THE LENS AREA THAT ALLOW THE FRAME TO BLOCK MORE PERIPHERAL SUNLIGHT
// vented rubber nose pads
ALL-DAY COMFORT
PROMOTES AIRFLOW KEEPS YOU COOL
// ergo-textured rubber nose pads
ALL-DAY COMFORT
MAXIMIZES GRIP
// 8-base wrap
FOLLOWS THE CONTOURS OF YOUR FACE TO BLOCK OUT THE MOST LIGHT
// 6-base wrap
CONTOURS SLIGHTLY LESS THAN AN 8-BASE BUT PROVIDES A MORE FASHION FORWARD LOOK
// FRAME size
WE SIZE OUR FRAMES FROM HINGE TO HINGE FOR ALL FACE TYPES // temple size
Named after a deepwater strait with incredible history just 30 minutes outside of New Orleans, Rigolets means trench in French. Complete with vented, sun blocking side shields and ergo rubber details in all the right places, these full wrap shades also feature our polarized, blue light blocking lenses with LAPISTM technology for crisp, clear fish spotting vision.
as
You never know what the day will bring. When the fish are hitting, stay focused; if you can’t spot any action, take a siesta. Named after the infamous flat in Islamorada that’s a magnet for monster tarpon and square groupers, Bales Beach is ready for whatever the day has in store—be it the rush of a dawn fishing mission or casual afternoon tending the grill.
Some folks seem to have a shortcut solution to untie every knot people get themselves into. When a motor or a mood dies, these folks step in, and before you know it everything is all good once again. Never idle, always ready to help, no problem they can’t solve. Put on the Nato, and maybe you’ll see things differently, too. Named after the man, the myth, the legend and the flat he called home as a kid in Xcala.
Available as
Sight-fishing requires laser focus on the slightest indication—that split-second opportunity when you’ll either set the hook or lament over the one that got away. With so much on the line, you need sunglasses that give you every available advantage. Something solid as a rock. Introducing Roca (rock in Spanish), named for the productive Roca Flat near Campeche, Mexico. These are a solid pair of performance shades indeed.
Spying on fish seems like a ridiculous way to spend your day. Until the thrill of the catch takes over and your reel is screaming as your line runs into the backing. Named after the town flat of Xcalak (pronounced ish-ka-lak) near the Belize border in Mexico (aka bone heaven), all it takes is a short walk and a wade to hook up in Boneville.
Leaving before dawn and staying out past last light. You don’t even have to wonder—your partner in crime with the Nippers is up for it. She’ll reschedule whatever meeting or event is in the way of a day on the boat with you or any other adventure. She’s always in. And her secret weapon—those shades named for the epic bonefish flat off of Abaco —will win you over and soon become part of your toolkit as well.
Named for the ruins of several prominent Prohibition-era social clubs built at sea in Biscayne Bay, Florida. Stiltsville is also a famous flat known for phenomenal bonefishing. When you don a pair of full-wrap Stiltsville shades, enjoy the best of both worlds - hardcore bonefish hunting and perpetual party going. Tie one on and tip one back in honor of Stiltsville.
Transition effortlessly from the flats to the fiesta in the Caballo. Though they appear as the life of the party, their outstanding optics and technical details are up for the challenge of ticking off the feistiest fish. Crafted with a durable bio-based nylon made to stand up to years of heavy use.
In Mexico’s Ascension Bay, where schools of tailing permit come to play, the poised angler in the Palometa (Spanish for permit) is ready to slay—all day. Molded with our proprietary bio-based nylon offering an incredible strength to weight ratio, the lightweight Palometa offers serious comfort and extreme durability.
as
Some guides have an easy style that masks a wealth of earned knowledge and experience. They’ve been there, done that, and loved every minute of it. They’re not trying to impress anyone—that’s simply how they live. The Calda is a classic frame that doesn’t try; it just looks cool just because it is. Named after the big flat off Key West Harbor where permit and barracuda roam in large numbers, see fish better in your Caldas.
Named for a memorable flat we encountered on our odyssey expedition through the Yucatan near Campeche, Piedra elicits images of red and back mangroves, casting to the big rolling tarpon on the incoming and sneaking on snook with the outgoing. Designed with a full wrap 8-base wrap and lightweight yet durable bio-based nylon frame, Piedra can perform all day long without weighing you down.
Named after the Islamorada flat that’s home to lazy tarpon and pesky permit, the Swash will keep you coming back for more. Just like when the fish turned away at the last moment before the strike. Your guide squinted from behind the dark lens not because of the sunlight, but because he was deep in thought.
Named for Alejandro, Vega Cruz, AKA
the
Isla
of fly
on the
The large frame Vega can help you spot giant 200-pound tarpon rolling in by the hundreds all day without weighing you down thanks to the strong yet lightweight bio-based frames.
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.
SCIENTIFIC ANGLER’S 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 phthalatebased 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
A revolutionary breakthrough in slickness technology; 50% slicker than the original AST
AST Scientific Anglers’ patented slickness agent, built into the coating
SA•ID
The Scientific Anglers innovative line marking system
AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT
The inverse of the Tactile Reference Point - an embossed section where the head meets the running line.
SONAR
Our SONAR sinking technology takes flies to where the fish are: beneath the surface
TACTILE REFERENCE POINT
A smooth section of line that serves as a tactile signal between the head and running line
TROPICORE
Braided monofilament core for harsh tropical conditions
SEAMLESS DENSITY
A gradual mixing of densities, resulting in a straight-line connection to the fly
WELDED LOOPS
Hand-welded loops on the ends of fly lines to provide loop-toloop leader connections
SHOOTING TEXTURE
Golf ball-shaped embossing that reduces friction, resulting in increased shootability
CAMO TIP
A subtle mixing of muted colors on the tip to provide increased stealth
DRY TIP
A unique blend of microballoons, resulting in high-floating fly-line tips
LB
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
on average, than the closest three
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.
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.
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.
Lines built with AST Plus retain their out-of-thebox slickness far longer than any other fly line on the market.
In 2021, we came up with the idea of designing a new line system for double-handed rods. In order to gain further insights into the Scandinavian market and the needs of Scandinavian salmon fishermen, we started out by interviewing a series of Scandinavian fly tackle stores. In doing so, we learned more about how to improve and optimize existing line ranges in the market. Full of input and enthusiasm, we then sat down and designed the first prototypes. During the development and testing phases, we teamed up with some of the most experienced salmon fly fishermen, fly casters, and tackle store representatives in Norway. We’re proud to say that the resulting line- and tip range is the most thoroughly tested and fine-tuned line range we’ve ever designed for Scientific Anglers. The lines and tips perform equally well for the beginner and the expert no matter what modern highmodulus double-hander you might chose to cast.
The Headway lines stand out, and they will provide all salmon fishermenregardless of skill levels - with a giant leap forward.
- Svein Røbergshagen
The Headway range is the most thoroughly tested and fine-tuned line range we’ve ever designed for Scientific Anglers. The lines and tips perform equally well for the beginner and the expert no matter what modern high-modulus double-hander you might chose to cast.
• The bellies are designed to be used with a tip (They don’t work properly without)
• The tapered tips will turn over both the smallest and biggest salmon flies out there. The tips will also improve most other heads (from competing brands) in the market (sold separately)
• Bellies come in fi ve different variants (floating, float/sink2 (NEW), intermediate, intermediate/S3 (NEW) and S3)
Tips range from 9 – 18´ in six different sinking densities (sold separately)
Rear -end weight distribution makes the bellies perfect for loading your fly rod, and provides excellent angled casting abilities
• Orange tracer at the read-end of the belly ensures visual control while casting and fishing
• No hinging in the transition between belly and tip. Makes for harmonious casting, smooth loops, and a better presentation (with straightened tippets)
• Textured coating, which - compared to traditional lines - makes the lines easier to pull out of the water prior to casting
• Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job
“Not only is the new line system a real pleasure to cast, it also fishes incredibly well. The Headway series is a true gift for the salmon fisherman.
- Vetle Kjærstad
“I can confidently say that the new Headway shooting head and line tip system ticks off every box when it comes to flexibility, presentasion, distance, casting-ease, angle-abilities, combination of line densities, and fishability.
- Eirik Fjelldal
SPEY LITE & UST EXPRESS
Designed for light double-handed duty and with a short, powerful head, the Skagit Lite is ideal for smaller streams and trout Spey applications. Available in grain weights from 150-360, this two-colored line features a textured, black marker at the end of the head that serves as a visible, and audible, notification on where to begin your cast.
Designed for light double-handed duty and with a relatively long front taper for more delicate deliveries, the Scandi Lite is ideal for smaller streams and trout Spey applications. Available in grain weights from 180-420.
Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips with light two-handed rods. Available in grain weights from 150-420, this two-colored head features a textured, black marker at the end of the head that serves as a visible notification on where to begin your cast.
The fastest sinking fishfinders on the market – period! The UST Express Sink is a series of full sinking lines with weight / sink rates from 750grainSink 5 to 950grain-Sink 8. Designed to allow the angler to dredge the fly in the deepest pools or slow down the swing in the fastest currents.
“ 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
The Ultimate in Long-Distance Casting. Large 8-inch loop for quick shooting head changes. Shooting Texture delivers longer casts without abrasion. Braided multifilament core with hard PVC coating.
For exceptional casting distance. Advanced Shooting Technology freshwater line with a minimal-friction design that delivers high speeds and long distances. Easier handling with fewer tangles. Braided multifilament core.
The best coated shooting line on the market. A neat 8”/20cm welded loop at the front allows for easy shooting head changes. A highly visible front section makes it easy to see when to stop stripping and make the cast. The unique core will give you Minimal Tangling and unmatched shooting ability. It doesn’t get any better than this.
Designed for light double-handed duty and with a relatively long front taper for more delicate deliveries, the Scandi Lite is ideal for smaller streams and trout Spey applications. Available in grain weights from 180-420.
This Super slick silicone/oil double coated mono shooting line has extremely low coefficient of friction for ultimate distance casting. This shooting line is totally round and solid with a density close to water. It makes this floats higher than other mono lines. It stretches easily even in cold conditions and has high a breaking strength for its diameter.
Sinking leaders for use with double-handed lines; perfect for Atlantic salmon, Pacific salmon and steelhead. Built on 45-lb. monofilament core. Welded loop on butt end.
Designed by Flyfish Europe
“Being a hard-core two handed spey geek, my soul softened like butter in the heat of summer, testing these incredibly well-balanced, smooth and powerful heads for single-handed rods. I have simply never had the same feeling that these lines offered me. They are a pure joy to cast, giving effortless control and fishability, both spey and overhead. Headway Single Hand/Switch Belly makes you addicted to single handed rods for salmon fishing.
- Svein Røbergshage
“Easy-casting system where you can effortlessly customize the casting experience you desire in the setup, simply by switching to a shorter or longer tip. Very clever.
- Stein Skjerve Designed by
“I have long struggled to find shooting heads that cater to my varying single-handed fishing needs. Headway works excellently in tight spaces, short casts, long casts, small flies, and large flies with precision and controlled presentation. With the beautifully tapered and interchangeable tips, I can introduce the fly where the fish are, regardless of water level and the speed of current. Headway is going to revolutionize single-handed fishing in the years to come.
- Tom Wangensten
Headway Single Hand/ Switch is a truly unique shooting head/ integrated shooting head system developed for seatrout & salmon anglers. The tapers are designed to perform equally well for spey/ underhand casts as overhead casts with distance and powerful turnovers in mind. Due to the adaptability of the bellies together with the Headway interchangeable tips we have created the most versatile belly/ tip system on the market. This system is fully customizable. Based on skillset, fishing/ river conditions or rod type there is a belly/ tip combination available, whether you’re into “Skagit style”, “Scandi Style” lines or a hybrid version of the two. The 14g, 16g, 18g & 20g bellies can all be combined with the Headway tips in 9’, 12’, 15’ & 18’. This means there are belly/ tip combinations starting from 6wt single hand rods, through Switch rods and up to 7/8 wt and 8/9 wt double hand rods, making this system the first of its kind in the fly fishing industry.
- Rear weighted powerful shooting head developed for longer casts and line control
- Designed to be used with Headway tips (They do not work properly without)
- Paired with Headway interchangeable tips ensures turning over heavy flies and long leaders with ease
- Slim loop-to-loop connection between head and Headway interchangeable tips provides a smooth and seamless transition to eliminate hinging, and provide a straight-line connection to the fly
- 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 before the next cast
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:
FLYLINE
Amplitude Textured Trout Standard is a true to AFFTA line weight casters fly line. Built with a mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at long distances. If you love casting this will quickly become one of your new favorites.
Half-size Heavy Go-To Line for All Freshwater Species. Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, bass, carp, steelhead, salmon, perch, and pike.
Amplitude Trout is slicker than any trout taper we’ve ever made, and will last over 8 times longer than other lines on the market. Built for precise presentations and those who love dry flies, the Amplitude Trout is a game changer on any stream, anywhere.
Built a half-size heavy, the MPX taper starts where the GPX left off. Redesigned with more mass toward the front of the head, the MPX provides the same benefits of the GPX, with an added emphasis on presentation. The power is still there, only with an added bit of finesse. Meet your new best friend.
Sometimes a Double Taper is just the best tool for the job - especially for delicate line for dry fly deliveries. Whether you’re fishing a classic splitcane rod, a modern glassfiber rod or a modern carbon fiber rod, the Amplitude Textured Double Taper will give you the feel you desire with the performance you need.
Built on a stiff core for tropical conditions, and featuring our AST Plus slickness additive, the Bonefish taper is designed with a long, compound head for casting accuracy and delicate deliveries to fish that you’ll swear have a sixth sense.
We took our revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive and put it into the our 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.
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
The Amplitude Smooth Infinity lines are, simply put, the highest-performance smooth fly lines in the world. With up to five times less drag and eight times the durability of traditional lines, this will change the way you look at fly line performance.
Built a half-size heavy, the Amplitude Smooth MPX taper starts where the GPX left off. Redesigned with more mass toward the front of the head, the MPX provides the same benefits of the GPX, with an added emphasis on presentation. The power is still there, only with an added bit of finesse. Meet your new best friend.
There’s a sipper 40 feet away and he looks like he’s eating tricos. The natural rhythms of the rise and the river begin to make sense, so you ready yourself to cast. In that moment, you shouldn’t be thinking about your fly line, because you should trust it implicitly. In that moment, you need the Amplitude Smooth Trout taper, which is designed specifically for precise presentations and those who love dry flies.
The All-Round Taper, or ART, is perfectly designed to handle nearly every freshwater fishing situation imaginable. From small dry flies to turning over nymph rigs, the ART has the power to turn over any fly without sacrificing delicacy. Built with an extended front taper for pinpoint deliveries, the ART features a muted color scheme with a camo tip for even the most wary of fish. Excels at single-hand Spey casts.
The Amplitude Smooth Creek Trout Taper is designed for casting in small creeks where your average weight forward lines doesn’t make the cut. The rear loaded short-bellied fly line with an extended handling section. That means more mass is distributed to the front of the line, which assists in turning over weighted flies and performing roll casts.
After the hugely successful launch of the Mastery VPT back in 2011, thousands of 0.25-heavy VPT’s have been purchased and put to good use by demanding trout anglers across Europe. An updated version of the Mastery VPT has been on the drawing board for a long time - but how do you update something as successful as the original VPT? Well, we figured it out.
An unbelievable indicator line 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. Long rear taper for extended line control and longdistance casting.
3 years in development
16 Iterations of material packages
8 different variations of slickness formulas
And over 2500 hours of field testing
“
new
“ The
Magnitude clear floating
line comes out of the bucket clean. No tangles. And, for my clients, that’s the difference between a heart attack and a high five.
-Dustin Huff
Duracoat
Specialized dual-polymer design optimizes line stiffness, slickness, and abrasion resistance while significantly reducing line memory and tangles.
Clear Floating Technology uses naturally buoyant polymers for the ultimate in stealthy presentation and best-in-class durability.
EST + EST+ - proprietary slickness additive that provides unmatched durability, smoother shooting, and eco-friendly performance.
SEAMLESS DENSITY
CAMO AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT
Fish feed below the surface 90% of the time, Scientific Anglers Sonar Fly Lines allow you to target subsurface feeders in a full range of environments from just below the film to the depths. Whether you are pitching a weighted streamer for smallmouth, stripping a giant bunker pattern for stripers, or crawling a chironomid for stillwater trout, there is a Sonar line for you. Sonar Fly Lines are made in a full range of line weights and sink rates for exploring all depths of water. Top anglers world-wide have helped us to create the most comprehensive lineup of sinking lines available. Cores and coatings are adjusted for a complete range of water temperatures from ice-out lakes to steamy jungle rivers. Many of these are built on the award-winning Titan Taper to load rods quickly and turn over flies easily. They feature AST for improved slickness and durability and Welded Loops for quick attachment of leaders along with SA ID to find the line you want quickly. Line densities range from just-barely-sinking intermediate at 1.25 ips (inches per second) to over 9 ips.
STILLWATER SEAMLESS DENSITY
The SONAR Stillwater Seamless Density lines are a unique departure from the traditional graduated density lines of years past. With a variety of double-density sinking rates and a smooth, seamless transition between each, the SONAR Stillwater Seamless Density lines provide straightline connections to subsurface flies, meaning you’re in control of the fly every second it’s in the water. Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
How can something be clear and camouflaged? That’s easy. We took a mottled core, doused it with our new, supple clear coating, and we had the SONAR Stillwater Clear Camo. 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 for tossing multiple flies and long leaders to wary fish cruising just beneath the surface, the Emerger Tip’s floating running line and short, clear intermediate tip allows anglers to fish with supreme line control and just enough stealth to get the job done.
STILLWATER HOVER
One day, long ago, in a kingdom far, far away, we dreamed up a line that would sink, but not sink too much, one that would simply hover beneath the surface. Fast forward thousands of years and the SONAR Stillwater Hover sinking fly line was born. Built with an extra-slow sink rate, the Hover is downright nasty when it comes to fishing streamers with a slow retrieve. It’s a legend, at least in our own minds.
Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface Fishing. This line has fall stripers, seabass, and seatrout written all over it. Built on our coldwater camouflage it will get you on the blitz with out the tangles.
For pike and musky in rivers and stillwater - or how about taimen or hucho? Designed with a 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.
When it comes to fishing streamers in cold water, it’s difficult to beat the SONAR Sink 25. Designed with a short 25’ fast-sinking head, the Sink 25 sinking fly line gets flies deep extremely quickly and is paired with a large diameter handling section for excellent line control. When it’s time to get down and dirty, the Sink 25 has your back.
Built on the industry’s first 100-lb. monofilament core, the Titan BWT is the world’s strongest fly line and can handle even the world’s largest game fish. Arapaima? Check. Giant Trevally? Double check. If you’ve got a bucket list full of huge fish, we’ve got your line right here.
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.
Built on the industry’s first 100-lb. monofilament core, the SONAR Titan BWT Max Sink is built for the blue-water beasts of your dreams (or nightmares). With a super-fast sinking head and a core capable of pulling semi trucks from the depths (hyperbole), this is a line for 15-weight rods and fish that weigh more than you do.
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.
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
The Mastery Infinity has the power to bomb out streamers, yet retains delicacy for dry flies. It mends like an absolute dream, and delivers flies at all distances. Built a half-size heavy, with a long head and substantial front taper
You’ve got articulated streamers hanging from the lampshade on your desk. You think in terms of black, white, or olive. The term conehead doesn’t refer to an old comedy sketch. We totally get it. And that’s why we designed the Mastery Titan.
An excellent dry-fly line, the Mastery Double Taper excels at presenting flies with a touch of grace, which is extra handy on spring creeks and smaller streams.
An amazing trout fly line masquerading as a competition line. Designed with an extra-long head and rear taper, the Mastery Expert Distance is excellent in the wind, provides smooth distance casting, and lets you throw mends you didn’t think were even possible.
The Mastery Trout line is ideally suited for chasing browns, rainbows, and any other trout you can imagine. Perfect for dry flies and ideal for smaller nymphs and streamers, the Mastery Trout is one of our mainstays.
Mastery Trout Standard is a true to AFFTA line weight casters fly line. Built with a mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at long distances. If you love casting this will quickly become one of your new favorites.
Built a half-size heavy, the MPX taper starts where the GPX left off. Redesigned with more mass toward the front of the head, the MPX provides the same benefits of the GPX, with an added emphasis on presentation. The power is still there, only with an added bit of finesse.
The Mastery Short Belly Taper, or SBT, is just that: a short-bellied fly line with an extended handling section. That means more mass is distributed to the front of the line, which assists in turning over weighted flies and performing roll casts. Excellent for single-handed Spey casts as well.
VOLANTIS INTEGRATED - FLOAT
The All-Round Taper, or ART, is perfectly designed to handle nearly every freshwater fishing situation imaginable. From small dry flies to turning over nymph rigs, the ART has the power to turn over any fly without sacrificing delicacy.
The Mastery Versatile Presentation Taper, or VPT, looks like alphabet soup from afar, but this acronym truly means something. An ideal trout dry-fly line, the VPT features an extended front taper that presents flies delicately and also serves to help perform roll casts and single-handed Spey maneuvers.
Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish. This integrated line gives you the best of two worlds: The loading capabilities and casting distance of a shooting head, and the presentation and feel of a traditional WF line.
We took a mottled core, doused it with our new, supple clear coating creating the perfect stealthy line. The Volantis Clear Camo simply disappears beneath the surface, and features an intermediate sink rate to tempt fish sitting just below the chop.
VOLANTIS INTEGRATED - INT/SINK 3
A long-casting, long-lasting integrated fly line that helps you target seatrout at a distance, covering water like a pro. This line will help you get below the chop and discover what’s below, as well as help you fish flies at high speed without skirting the surface.
The Volantis Shooting Hears, designed by Flyfish Europe in collaboration with SA - and tested by hardcore seatrout fishermen across Scandinavia - has earned and deserved its reputation as THE Go-To coastal shooting head.
Designed by Flyfish Europe Designed by Flyfish Europe Designed by Flyfish Europe Designed by Flyfish Europe Designed by Flyfish Europe Designed by Flyfish EuropeWe 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. Six floating tapers. Three sinking tapers. Limitless possibilities.
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com
The Trout taper features a versatile, mid-length head ideal for delicate dries; however, it also provides great line control for nymph rigs. If you’re a trout angler, this is your Frequency.
You’ve got articulated streamers hanging from the lampshade on your desk. You think in terms of black, white, or olive. The term conehead doesn’t refer to an old comedy sketch. We totally get it. And that’s why we designed the Mastery Titan.
The perfect budget sinking fly line for stillwater anglers; it handles streamers and wet flies with aplomb, cuts through the wind, and features a mid-length head for great line control. We built the Frequency Full Sink with two sink rates.
Built with a slow sink rate, the Frequency Intermediate will pull streamers and wet flies under surface chop to get them where the fish are. Perfect for stillwater situations, and good for chucking streamers in rivers as well.
cations.
Air Cel fly lines have performed well and provided a great value for decades. Paying for quality has never been this easy or this affordable. These lines feature all the properties needed in a fly line: good flotation, durability, and tapers that work well for trout, panfish, and bass species, not to mention a welded loop on the front.
AIRCEL
Our WetCel general-purpose sinking line is a simple, no-frills, weight-forward sinking fly line perfect for throwing nymphs and streamers to trout in streams, rivers, or lakes. It may not cost a lot, but that certainly doesn’t mean the WetCel won’t get the job done. WETCEL INTERMEDIATE/SINK NEW COLOUR
Can’t decide what to fish for? Our Air Cel general-purpose floating line is a simple, nofrills, weight-forward floating fly line perfect for throwing dry flies, nymphs, and streamers to trout or grayling in streams, rivers, or lakes. It may not cost a lot, but that certainly doesn’t mean the Air Cel won’t get the job done.
Full range available at www.flyfisheurope.com WETCEL SINK TIP - SINK4
Quick-Loading Floating Fly Line. Air Cel fly lines have performed well and provided a great value for decades. Paying for quality has never been this easy or this affordable. These lines feature all the properties needed in a fly line: good flotation, durability, and tapers that work well for trout and other game fish.
General Purpose Sink Tip Fly Line. 12 ft long (3,7m), sink 4 sinking tip featuring a braided multifilament core for moderate to cold climates, a mid-length head for general fishing situations and sink rate 4.0 - 5.0 ips.
Fluorocarbon Tippet:
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON TROUT
• Sizes: 7X – 0X, with 0.5x sizes!
• Length: 30m spools in all sizes
• 100% fluorocarbon for ultimate stealthy presentations
Supple for drag free drifts
Freshwater Tippet:
ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH
• Sizes: 6X - 3X
Length: 30m spools in all sizes
• Supple for drag free drifts
• Light oli ve tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish
Tapered Fluorocarbon Leader:
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON
• 100% Fluorocarbon for stealthy presentations
• Taper and butt diameters adapted per size to perfectly match common flies
• Abrasion resistant
Freshwater Tippet:
ABSOLUTE TROUT
Freshwater Tapered Leader:
ABSOLUTE TROUT PRESENTATION
• Large butts to turn over longer length with ease
• Progressive taper delicately delivers fly
Supple Material for drag free drifts
On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
Freshwater Tapered Leader:
• Sizes: 7X – 0X, with 0.5X sizes
• Length: 30m spools in all sizes
• Supple for drag free drifts
On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot
ABSOLUTE TROUT
• Tapers specifically designed for Trout fishing Hea vy butt diameters for powerful accurate deliveries
• Supple material for drag free drifts
On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot
Freshwater Tapered Leader:
ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH FINESSE
Excellent for slack line presentations for long, drag free drifts.
Made with proprietary copolymer blends that are designed to drastically reduce water absorption
Freshwater Tapered Leader:
ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH
• Light oli ve tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish
• For dry fly and nymph fishing in close quarters
• Supple Material for drag free drifts
• On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot
Indicator Tippet:
ABSOLUTE TRI-COLOR SIGHTER
Sizes: 4X, 2X, and 0X
• Length: 10m spools in all sizes
• Green/White/Orange color
Low memory, high abrasion resistance, maximum knot strength
Freshwater Leader:
ABSOLUTE INDICATOR STILLWATER
Hot orange butt section for strike detection
• Great for indicator fishing stillwater or river for trout
• Short Butt section with long tippet section
US-Handtied Freshwater Nymphing Leader:
ABSOLUTE RIGHT ANGLE LEADER
• Perpendicular dropper section ensures quick, efficient sinking of flies and accurate strike detection
Includes butt section, indicator, and dropper section. Angler attaches terminal tippet and flies to supplied tippet ring
Freshwater Leader:
ABSOLUTE EURO NYMPH
• Small diameter butt section to match with small diameter euro nymph lines
• Integrated Absolute Tri-color sighter Tippet ring allows easy attachment of tippet material
Fluorocarbon Tippet:
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON SALMON
30m spools
• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm
• Supple for drag free drifts
• On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
For European-Style Nymphing::
ABSOLUTE EURO NYMPH KIT
Freshwater Tapered Leader:
ABSOLUTE SALMON LEADER
• Tapers specifically designed to handle salmon flies or various size and weight
• Hea vy butt diameters matched to modern salmon lines for powerful, accurate deliveries
Saltwater Shock Tippet:
• 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.
ABSOLUTE CLEAR SALMON Nylon Tippet:
30m spools
• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm
• Supple for drag free drifts
• On a verage 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition
Saltwater Leader Material:
ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON SHOCKABSOLUTE LEADER MATERIAL
• Length: 30m spools in all sizes.
• Sizes: 25lb – 80lb
Extreme abrasion resistance for Saltwater and Predatory fish
• 100% Fluorocarbon
Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing
• Sizes: 25lb – 80lb
• Length: 50m spools in all sizes
General Purpose, medium stiff monofilament for leader building
• Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing
The village of Ammarnäs is situated in the western part of Swedish Lapland, in Northern Sweden. Depending on the season, it is home to around 100-200 people. Ammarnäs proudly bears the slogan, “Where the road begins,” and a glance at the map explains why: only one road leads to or from the village. Travelers arriving by car or bus can make a pit stop in the slightly larger town of Sorsele, where they can visit the Hook and Cup Sorsele Visitor Center. Here, knowledgeable staff can guide you on fly fishing, and you can browse through a quaint shop stocked with fishing gear, enjoy a cup of coffee at the café, or explore the museum. From Sorsele, it’s just a scenic 90-kilometer drive to Ammarnäs, a paradise for brown trout enthusiasts.
By Mikael Lindström
IFjällvilts Suovas burgers; a local dish which tastes wonderful prepared next to the river.
Henrik with a lifted Scott glassfiber-rod, and wading stick... The surroundings around Mankeforsen are astonishing and the mountains still have som snow left all summer.
first visited Ammarnäs nearly 20 years ago and instantly fell in love with the area, not only for its excellent fishing opportunities but also for its breathtaking natural beauty. Having cherished outdoor activities since childhood, particularly fly fishing, Ammarnäs offers a plethora of activities such as hiking, mushroom and cloudberry picking, birdwatching, horseback riding in the mountains on Icelandic horses, as well as downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis.
Ammarnäs is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting one of the world’s most renowned hiking trails, the Kungsleden, which stretches over 450 kilometers between Abisko to the north and Grövelsjön in Dalarna to the south. Established by Svenska Turistföreningen at the turn of the 20th century, this trail passes right through Ammarnäs. After years of fishing in various waters across Sweden and abroad, I can confidently say that the Kraddsele and Ammarnäs area offers an unparalleled fishing experience, with a diverse range of waters and impressive populations of grayling and trout.
Besides the exceptional fishing opportunities, Ammarnäs also charms visitors with its stunning surroundings, welcoming locals, and convenient amenities. The village features a well-stocked grocery store catering to almost every need, while the Ammarnäs Guide Center boasts a bistro and restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, along with a fully equipped fishing shop. Whether you’re clad in waders or not, you can indulge in local delicacies such as
Suovasburger with reindeer meat or a Fisherman’s Pasta, or opt for a vegetarian dish. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a ski slope with a restaurant and a camping site within the village. A visit to Anders Skum Fjällvilt offers the opportunity to purchase local Sami delicacies, or simply refuel your vehicle at the village’s small gas station.
Ammarnäs is perhaps best known for its “Potato Hill,” where locals cultivate Mandel potatoes on the steep south slope. For fishing enthusiasts, the area is renowned for the migratory Ammarnäs trout, a unique species that embarks on a journey upstream from Lake Storvindeln to its spawning grounds in the Vindel River between Storvindeln and Lake Gautsträsk. Additionally, some Ammarnäs trout migrate upstream in the small Tjulån creek from Gautsträsk to spawn in the Vindel River.
What sets this fishing area apart for me is the opportunity to purchase a fishing license for Ammarnäs FVO, granting access to three distinct types of streams. The charming Tjulån creek, running through the village, offers excellent spots for grayling, Ammarnäs trout, and lake trout fishing. Its accessibility and relative protection from wind make it a favorite among anglers. Further downstream, the Sjöforsen Special Stretch provides a premium fishing experience, limiting daily rod permits and allowing only fly fishing and catch-andrelease practices. Here, many fly fishermen have achieved personal bests with grayling and encountered large Ammarnäs trout or lake trout for the first time.
The Ammarnäs FVO license extends from Guordisbäcken down to just above Järnforsen, encompassing a variety of pools, pockets, and rapids where the Ammarnäs trout can be found resting during their migration along the Vindel River. While fishing from a boat or
A caddis pattern was what it took to get this beautiful resident brown trout to the surface.
The go-to dries for trout and grayling are flying ants and wasps. When the hatches start in July, use yellow and brown mayflies, TKK, small CDC-Caddis flies and Streaking Caddis. In August, use the Bibio imitations and more Wasps.
using personal boats or belly boats is prohibited, a boat can be booked at Ottosmoraselet to access the opposite side of the river. The area offers excellent grayling fishing, particularly during significant hatches, when larger Ammarnäs trout may rise to dry flies.
The fishing opportunities around Ammarnäs are diverse, with options ranging from mountain lakes to small creeks and expansive slow waters along the upper Vindel River. Twenty kilometers downstream from Ammarnäs, the Kraddsele SFF provides additional excellent spots for trout and grayling fishing, with Emils Fiske camping serving as a convenient hub for information and accommodations.In addition to its trout and grayling fishing, Kraddsele SFF offers designated stretches for pike fishing, both upstream from the village in Kraddselet and at other limited stretches such as Järnforsen and Övre Forsen, where fly fishing and catch-and-release policies are enforced.
As a testament to the quality of fishing in the area, the average weight and length of reported Ammarnäs trout during the last season in 2023 were 67 centimeters and 3.4 kilograms, respectively. My personal best grayling, measuring 65 centimeters, was
caught above Järnforsen during trout fishing, albeit on a small grey Squirrel zonker. To sum up, the fishing opportunities in the Ammarnäs and Kraddsele areas offer a wealth of experiences for anglers, from challenging stretches to serene mountain streams, ensuring a memorable and rewarding fishing trip.
Ammarnäs Guide Center
I’ve had the privilege of working as a guide for the Ammarnäs Guide Center over the past two seasons, and I must say it has been the most fulfilling summer job of my life so far. My longtime friend and the owner of the Guide Center, Peter Schmitt, approached me a couple of years ago with the offer to join his team. He convincingly outlined how my extensive experience and knowledge of fishing in the Ammarnäs waters would be a perfect fit for the guiding role. Moreover, he expressed the need for an additional guide to allow him more time to manage the restaurant. With a break from my regular work, everything fell into place, and I had the opportunity to spend 2.5 months guiding during the fishing season in Ammarnäs.
Peter is not only a skilled fly fisherman but also a savvy entrepreneur who relocated to Ammarnäs from Gothenburg primarily for the fishing opportunities. In addition to managing the Guide Center, which includes a restaurant, bistro, and fishing shop, he is also involved in mountain rescue operations alongside his Labrador companion, “Fly.” Peter collaborates with the Vindel Mountains Sami Center and the County Board in Västerbotten to facilitate fishing and hunting permits. The Guide Center also offers the option to rent apartments on the upper floor or cabins scattered around Ammarnäs.
The activities offered by the Guide Center go beyond standard guiding services. In collaboration with the Vindel Mountains Sami Center and depending on the availability of fishing licenses and days granted by the County Board, Peter organizes guided trips using Fjällflygarna helicopters to remote mountain waters such as the pristine Mankeforsen, Laiva Creek, and
Ältsån. These exclusive trips include helicopter transport, a guide, fishing licenses, meals, and accommodation. Fly fishing is the sole method allowed, with a strict catch-andrelease policy. These excursions have proven immensely popular, offering unforgettable experiences, particularly the dry fly fishing for trout and Arctic char.
Each guiding or helicopter trip begins at the Ammarnäs Guide Center in the morning, where guests gather for coffee, obtain their licenses, and discuss their preferences for the day’s fishing. Based on water conditions, weather, and client preferences, the itinerary is tailored to maximize the experience. For instance, the journey to Mankeforsen begins with a helicopter ride from Fjällflygarna, departing from the Biergenis “Airport,” a simple gravel field with a fuel tank. After a breathtaking 10-minute flight following the upper Vindel River, guests arrive at their base for the next two days, the Mankeforsen cabin, nestled by the water’s edge.
The crystal-clear river reveals every rock and deep pool as it flows into the lower Framakselet. It’s a magical sight from above, and as we prepare to land, I make mental notes of the prime fishing spots. A small island sits in the middle of the river, with currents swirling around its edges. Just upstream from the cabin, a shallow stretch allows for easy wading to the opposite bank, where trout can be spotted cruising in the clear water, offering thrilling sight-fishing opportunities.
Laivabäcken
A mere 15-minute helicopter flight from Biergenis unveils the picturesque tent camp nestled atop a gentle hill, surrounded by the meandering beauty of Laiva Creek. This Sami exceptional water in the heart of the Ammarnäs mountains offers anglers a rare opportunity to fish in pristine, gin-clear streams for trout. Laiva Creek originates from Lake Laiva, winding its way through the valley down to Lake Tärna. Midway, the minor creek, Skivbäcken, merges into Laiva Creek, creating prime fishing grounds where the two waterways converge. The excursion entails plenty of walking and stealthy maneuvering, navigating the clear waters and dense foliage. Our accommodations consist of a cozy tent camp complete with wooden stoves and comfortable tent beds, where every meal is lovingly prepared over an open fire.
Ältsån
Venturing slightly farther afield with a helicopter journey from Biergenis, we arrive at the serene shores of Lower Ältsvattnet, where Ältsån Creek begins its journey to Lake Tärna. Our tent camp awaits amidst nature’s embrace, equipped with wood-burning stoves for warmth and hearty meals cooked over open flames. Positioned a short distance downstream from the creek’s inception, this is a haven for anglers seeking the thrill of catching both sizable trout and Arctic char in the crystal-clear waters. However, navigating this unique stream presents its own set of challenges, as the easily startled trout and Arctic char require a cautious approach and impeccable stealth.
Fly fishing is the sole method allowed, with a strict catch-andrelease policy “
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.
A huge step towards streamlining your fly tying station. Gone are the days of tying flies being synonymous with playing hide & seek with v favorite tools, resins, beads and hooks. The Bench Boss offers a sturdy solution to misplaced tying necessities, ensuring that your time at the vise is spent tying, not searching.
A slightly curved pair of tying scissors that will do everything except wear out. Bearing resemblance to our best-selling Ergo All Purpose Scissors, these have Ergo Handles, a Precision Peg, versatile shape & sizing, tungsten carbide construction, and the perfect amount of curve. These scissors will handle anything thrown at them, including fine and delicate work.
Tungsten Carbide Universal Scissors
Sharp tying scissors that will do everything and last a lifetime. A feature-rich pair of scissors that does it all. With Ergo Handles, a Precision Peg, versatile shape & sizing, and tungsten carbide construction, these scissors will handle anything thrown at them for years to come.
In honor of the south paws who tie their own. The first pair of scissors designed for left-handed fly tyers. With the same quality and performance that is expected from all Loon fly tying scissors but with blades reversed.
A slightly curved pair of precision fly tying scissors that will last forever. The marriage of delicate and robust, these tying scissors will make the cleanest cuts in the tightest spots, while retaining a sturdy hand-feel. With Ergo handles for comfort, a precision peg for increased control, and tungsten carbide construction for maximum strength, these are darn fine pair of tying scissors for any fine work required.
A tippet storage solution with options. The Rogue Tippet Post gives you two options: use the stainless steel tool tethers to secure both ends to a pack so the post rides horizontally, or secure one end to a pack and use the other end to house floatant, nippers, or any other accessory.
The next generation of caddies to keep your gel floatants close at hand. Heavy-duty, lightweight, indestructible and designed to fit all of our 12 oz bottles (Aquel, Lochsa and Royal Gel), the Silicone 12 oz Caddy securely fastens to any pack, bag or vest using a stainless steel tool tether, keeping your floatant right where you need it.
A solution for securing hooks on the water or at the vise. The Hook Holder keeps trailing hooks out of the way while tying and saves that precious cork handle on the water. Each pack contains durable rubber bands that can be used to secure the Hook Holder to a vise or a fly rod, allowing hooks to be securely stored.
The clean and simple way to carry the essentials. Whether you’re looking for a totally streamlined way to carry only the essentials or looking for a robust lanyard to carry nippers or hemostats, the Spartan Lanyard fits the bill. With a barrel-lock adjust size and a tool tether for securing tools, the system is lightweight and easily adjusted to meet your needs.
The next generation of caddies to keep your shake or dip floatants close at hand. Heavy-duty, lightweight, indestructible and designed to fit all of our 2 oz bottles (Fly Dip, Top Ride, Easy Dry and Blue Ribbon), the Silicone 2 oz Caddy securely fastens to any pack, bag or vest using a stainless steel tool tether, keeping your floatant right where you need it.
A new way to carry hemostats. Sometimes sliding a pair of hemostats into a pocket, belt loop or the waist of board shorts is a better solution than clipping them to a vest or waders. The Hitch Pin handles allow these hemostats to be securely stored just about anywhere, and present an ergonomic resting place for your fingers while in use. This Hitch Pin Scissor Forceps comes with scissor blades that add an extra array of purposes to this excellent tool.
Everything you need to keep your flies looking (and feeling) sharp. A Spartan Lanyard houses a Hook Hone, a Nip n Sip XL and an Ergo Comb. That means you’re hitting the water with everything you need to restore your flies after they have been mangled by fish or blunted by rocks.
The next generation of caddies to keep your floatants close at hand. Heavy-duty, lightweight, indestructible and designed to carry two bottles of floatant, the Silicone Double Barrel Caddy securely fastens to any pack, bag or vest using a stainless steel tool tether, keeping your floatant right where you need it.
A new way to carry hemostats. Sometimes sliding a pair of hemostats into a pocket, belt loop or the waist of board shorts is a better solution than clipping them to a vest or waders. The Hitch Pin handles allow these hemostats to be securely stored just about anywhere, and present an ergonomic resting place for your fingers while in use.
The solution for stabilizing connections and eliminating line twist. Throwing big indicator rigs or large, wind-resistant flies can twist your line over time which will result in sloppier casting and increase the likelihood of tangles. The Perfect Rig Micro Swivels eliminate line twist, and provide the perfect connection point for tippet or leader of different sizes. Available in 3 sizes to be at home in every rig.
The stoke had certainly diminished a bit as the north state was being pummeled with unseasonably huge storms. The week had been spent constantly checking flow charts, scrutinizing weather reports, formulating plans B, C, and D, and a whole lot of finger-crossing. No fishing trip is ever guaranteed, especially when it comes to steelhead. The migratory nature of the fish makes it hard to plan a trip in advance; however, this trip to this river during this week of the year was as close to a guarantee as you’ll find. After days of internal deliberation, you eventually get the sense that worrying is useless, and you’ll find out when you get there—a “you don’t know unless you go” sort of thing.
By Dominic Bruno
The excitement was back in full force driving the windy road through bigfoot country as we approached the Klamath River. “High, really high. But fishable...”
That was all I needed to hear to regain my optimism. After 7 anxious hours on the road, we pull off onto one of many unsuspecting dirt roads we’ve come to know and love. You need to be careful around here as one wrong turn can lead to one of countless illegal cannabis grows in the area. The hair stands up on the back of my neck as we pull into the first spot of the day. We fished hard all day for little reward, constantly looking for fishy water in a river bordering on a torrent. It becomes harder and harder to remain hopeful as the hours turn into days, and days turn into weeks without a grab. Between the absurd amount of lines our group has in the water, we surely would have found life had there been any in the river.
So you keep fishing, and drinking, and hoping. But that only goes so far. The popular cliches come to mind, “that’s why they call it fishing and not catching,” or worse yet, “a bad day fishing is better than a good day at the office.” Even the gas station attendant remarks that sometimes it’s just nice to be out. I find a lot of truth in that, and nothing brings me more joy and satisfaction than being immersed in the natural world, especially when I’m standing waist deep in a river surrounded by mountains and forest.
However, at some point, a distinction must be made between birdwatchers and fishermen. Gravel bar conversations with highly regarded guides only confirm our worst fears—the river is void of life. The worst he’s ever seen it, he says. Great...
Nightfall comes and is spent the same way we’ve spent the last few days: good food, good drinks, and plenty of lamenting over the sad state of this once prolific river. It’s been days since we’ve had any kind of cell service or contact with the outside world, and we start to feel the itch. We take a short hike up the hill in an attempt to reach out, and that’s when the texts came flying in...
“Drop everything and come over to the coast!”
“Fishing is unreal... countless salmon and steelhead...”
“Arms are sore, landed a pile. Headed out in the morning; hope you guys can join me.”
Then the pictures and videos came through. Indisputable
hard evidence, but we were already sold. Plans were made to give bigfoot country one more shot the following day before heading to the lost coast. A proposition that seemed crazy given how much time and planning went into this trip, but it’s pretty easy to throw everything out the window when your buddy’s phone is blowing up with proof of historically good fishing.
It’s nearly impossible to tell at times through the thick morning fog, but the scenery has certainly changed. As we approach the coast, the rivers are running green and lined with giant redwoods. It feels odd being here this early in the season, but then again, nature doesn’t look at the calendar.
“If I don’t get a grab, I’m fucking done.” My buddy mutters. A desperate declaration that this is indeed our last shot. I’d have been lying if I said I didn’t feel the same.
We scramble through gear and line our rods with drastically different rigs than we had planned on throwing this trip. We’re lucky we have anything applicable. I guess that’s where plans B, C, and D come into play, preparing us for plan E. Along our walk to the run, we come across a local who comments that he hasn’t seen a fish here in years. Normally that would have thrown me off, but I can’t help but feel like we know something he doesn’t.
I step into the first run of the day full of hope, holding a big colorful wad of feathers that resembles a cat toy more so than a fly. Not far into the run and I feel a hard grab. Although it feels like it’s been an eternity since I’ve last hooked a fish, my mind takes over, and my body goes into autopilot, coercing a small steelhead onto the bank. Not a huge fish, but a fish nonetheless. Beautiful, bright, fresh from the ocean. This is why we’re here.
Feeling reinvigorated, I pick up where I left off in the middle of the run, hoping to connect with his older brother or perhaps one of the many salmon boiling around us. I send another cast out across the river, just as I’d done a hundred times that day, a thousand times that trip, and a million times in my life. But this cast is different. My line surges forward as the rod is nearly ripped from my hands. This is THE grab. Line is peeling off my reel loudly, the rod is doubled over before my brain has a chance to overthink it.
Some ten minutes later I finally regain my fly line, and we finally lay eyes on the fish. A big, bright chinook salmon comes to the surface. The king of the river. Or should I say the queen of the river? She’s a beautiful hen of about 25#, the one from my daydreams.
We slide her into the shallows and admire this amazing creature for a brief moment before releasing her back into the wild.
If I showed you, I’d have to kill ya.
I step into the first run of the day full of hope
* Not compatible with the Universal
Extra-Light System Fly Case: This case is equipped with two foam changers and offers remarkable lightweight functionality when needed on trekking expeditions or whenever load-reduction is required. It weighs only 49g/1.73oz (Large), 41g/1.44oz (Medium), and 34g/1.2oz (Small). These weights are less than half of our waterproof fly case.
This case comes with one foam changer on one side and offers extra clearance inside, making it perfect for carrying bulky flies without compression. It is available in three sizes: Large, Medium, and Small.
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- Guide Boat Box with Double-Sided Compartments -
- Desk Mount Dust Pocket with Tool Rest -
The “Tool Rest” is now available with the Desk Mount Dust Pocket, making it the perfect match for the tying vice clamped to your desk. By storing frequently used tying tools on this “Tool Rest,” you will gain more space on your desk and improve tying efficiency. Emptying the Dust Pocket is easy, as it is held in place with neodymium magnets.
- 2-in-1Retractor with Fly Catcher -
For storing your pliers, nippers and other tools - ready-at-hand and neatly organized. Comes with a neodymium magnet Fly Catcher for temporary fly storage.
This boat box is equipped with compartments on both sides, totaling 40 compartments, each measuring W35.3mm x H45.8mm x D54mm. It’s the perfect boat box for professional guides who carry a large quantity of attractor flies. Use it with existing Boat Boxes for System Foams to perfectly organize your flies. Waterproof New Boat Box in Off White Color: This boat box features large compartments on one side. Additionally, it comes with 3 Large Size System Foams, 4 Medium Size System Foams, and 3 Small Size System Foams, making it the ultimate storage system. Guide Boat Box with Compartments - Waterproof
I have been concerned about the wild salmon for a long time! “
We are all well aware of the challenges facing our precious Atlantic wild salmon these days. For those of us who are passionately engaged in salmon fishing and concerned about the well-being of wild salmon, and who have witnessed the negative trend for many years, it came as no surprise that salmon ended up on the list of endangered species a couple of years ago.
Wild salmon stocks in almost all Norwegian rivers are negatively affected by aquaculture, primarily the various negative aspects of salmon farming in Norwegian fjords where escapements, pollution, and lice problems are completely out of control. There is also purse seining in Norwegian fjords targeting mixed stocks where large quantities of salmon are caught as they migrate to the rivers to spawn. Purse seiners harvest a so-called surplus that is not real or present. Overfishing in the sea of key species such as sand eels, which are vital for salmon growth and survival, also has a negative impact. In addition, the development of Norwegian rivers for hydropower production has been a major challenge since the 1960s and 1970s. The combination of these factors has led to the collapse of wild salmon stocks. The problems are not isolated to Norway alone; we also see struggling salmon stocks in Scotland and Iceland.
Although recreational fishing for salmon is not the greatest challenge to the salmon, it is important and crucial that we as anglers take our share of responsibility to avoid overfishing on the stocks that have managed to survive all the aforementioned challenges and have actually returned to their home rivers to spawn. In this regard, we believe that landowners and managers of our rivers have a great responsibility to ensure the best possible spawning stock target. We also believe that the management of our rivers is largely driven by low competence, short-sightedness because the focus on making money is greater than the focus on protecting salmon. We believe that this results in many rivers being managed in a simply cowardly manner. In recent years, seasonal quotas, maximum size limits, and protection of female salmon have been introduced in most Norwegian rivers. As salmon stocks have declined, quotas have decreased and regulations have become stricter. After 2023 turned out to be one of the worst years for both catch and spawning stock targets in recent history, it was with some disbelief that we read that the board responsible for managing one of Norway’s most important rivers, the Gaula, actually chose to increase the quota for the amount of large salmon that can be taken from the river.
Just a few days after this news became known, some of the most well-known lodges in Gaula took action and opposed the new rule changes in Gaula. We applaud this initiative, and it shows that there are still serious actors who have the survival of the salmon in focus. In this context, we spoke with Ann-Britt Bogen, who is the lodge manager at Gaula Flyfishing Friends (GFF). She has been instrumental in bringing together the most important lodges to agree on this important initiative.
FFE: Hi Ann-Britt! Could you briefly tell us what GFF is and how/when it started, and most importantly, what GFF, Gaula, and the wild salmon mean to you?
Ann-Britt: Gaula Flyfishing Friends (GFF) is a rotation fishing scheme consisting of various exciting beats located in the middle part of Gaula, which I believe must have been created for fly fishermen. This year marks 40 years since Arne Flagestad started GFF, so this is Gaula’s oldest rotation and still going strong.
I have been closely involved with both GFF, the river, and the salmon for many years, and my strong commitment to the wild salmon has increased in line with the ever-growing challenges it faces. Now that I run GFF myself, my focus is on promoting responsible fishing, as well as creating a good and inclusive atmosphere. It’s an understatement to say that wild salmon means infinitely much to me personally; it’s about heritage, history, environment, work, and lifestyle. Wild salmon fills my heart to the brim.
FFE: We have just passed 2023, which turned out to be one of the worst seasons in recent memory, both in terms of catch and, notably, returning salmon and poor spawning stock targets. What are your thoughts on the outlook for fishing and the salmon in Gaula for 2024 and the years to come?
Ann-Britt: I think I share my concern with many fishermen out there, after the collective collapse we witnessed last year. The big question is how long the salmon can defy all the major challenges it faces, which unfortunately are constantly worsening. Hope remains, but the outlook for wild salmon does not look bright at all.
We have managed relatively well in Gaula in recent years, due to good management and a high rate of catch and release. However, Gaula has been balancing on a knife’s edge for several years when it comes to having enough spawning fish left in the river after the season ends. Opening up to kill far more salmon than is reasonable will likely change the salmon stock and river fishing already within a few years. We have seen the consequences of overfishing in other rivers, and it is high time to stop taking wild salmon for granted.
When I think positively, I believe that a robust salmon stock like Gaula’s can be preserved. It certainly has better conditions than many other rivers. But then we must let the salmon dictate to a greater extent and ensure sustainable management, both locally and at the political level.
It’s the sum of “madness” that will break the wild salmon, I think. Therefore, it’s important that landowners and fishermen, and to a high degree the boards of river owner’s associations, acknowledge the responsibility we have for the salmon when it returns to the river to spawn. If we don’t do that, it could be the last straw that breaks the camel’s back.
FFE: In light of the challenges the salmon faces in Gaula, we were quite surprised when we read in December 2023 that the Gaula board chose to ease the rules instead of tightening them before the 2024 season. It was with great joy that we saw GFF, led by you, together with Gaula Flyfishing Lodge, Norwegian Flyfishers Club, and Winsnes Flyfishing Lodge, chose to oppose the Gaula board’s regulations and actually tighten the rules on their beats. Tell us what prompted you to take this step together with the other lodges.
Ann-Britt: Like many others, I have been concerned about the wild salmon for a long time. In the last two years, I have also been very concerned about the direction the management is heading. In Gaula, we are almost 700 landowners, and I understand, of course, that we cannot expect everyone to have knowledge about responsible management of a salmon river. Therefore, it is crucial that we have competence and willingness in the river owners’ association.
When the proposal for quota changes came, I knew it was time to involve more people who, like GFF, understand the negative consequences this will entail. The other lodges operate very seriously and have fishermen with great respect for wild salmon. Therefore, it was natural for us to come together publicly in an attempt to highlight the consequences and encourage caution.
FFE: Tell us how the rules of GFF, Gaula Flyfishing Lodge, Norwegian Flyfishers Club, and Winsnes Flyfishing Lodge differ from the new rules now in effect for the rest of Gaula.
Ann-Britt: For simplicity’s sake, we chose to retain the old and well-established quotas, which have been proven to work and contribute to maintaining the salmon stock. Our rules involve far fewer killed salmon, a longer period of female salmon protection, and total protection of all salmon over 95cm. With these rules, we save many of the important females.
We could probably have even stricter quotas without meeting dissatisfaction, but because our fishermen themselves take great responsibility for the salmon, there is no need for it in practice. For our part, however, it is of great symbolic value to maintain and encourage reasonable quotas.
FFE: Although we at FFE and many other salmon fishermen support GFF and the other lodges in their courageous decision regarding the regulations in Gaula, we can imagine that not everyone is equally happy about this. Have you received a lot of negative criticism, and if so, what do the critics say?
Ann-Britt: Regarding the measure we implemented in December, we have received endless positive feedback, from all over the world. There has been great understanding and support for the initiative, especially among sports fishermen who share our concern. The negative criticism has so far been limited to comments online, where updated research and facts about the situation of wild salmon are not exactly at the center of opinions. I note that the younger generation that is coming forward has good attitudes and a completely different approach to fishing for a red-listed species.
FFE: If you log on to GFF’s websites, you’ll quickly realize that salmon is the focus and that profit is not necessarily the driving force for GFF. You can read the following:
Ann-Britt Bogen, manager: “I want GFF to be a place for responsible anglers, who fight with passion and treat the wild salmon with the respect it deserves.”
Is it difficult to run fishing tourism where you naturally depend on turnover and at the same time find fishermen who accept stricter rules than those that apply to the rest of Gaula?
Ann-Britt: No, I actually think it’s the opposite. Many are probably afraid of losing fishermen if they are too strict. When GFF announced the female salmon protection last fall, I lost a few but received many new inquiries. The difference is that you attract a different type of fishermen. Through GFF, I have spoken to many over the years, and the majority are informed and engaged in management, passionately in their relationship to the overall salmon fishing experience. It’s little about quotas. I wish more people understood this. Because in one of the world’s best salmon rivers, we have the privilege of choice. We can choose sustainable management, and we can choose to attract the fishermen who want to take care of Gaula, along with us.
FFE: Finally, is there anything else you would like to mention or highlight?
Ann-Britt: I would like to mention that we four lodges, along with several other landowners, have dusted off the “Gaula Salmon Fund,” which will now function as an interest organization for wild salmon in Gaula. Under the auspices of GSF, we are launching an initiative called “Preserve Gaula Salmon,” with the goal of conveying reality. We will conduct informational activities based on research and factbased information, as well as create greater engagement. Together, we hope to become a large and strong community of landowners, fishing providers, fishermen, and local businesses who can and will actively work to ensure the future of Gaula salmon.
FFE: We would like to thank you (GFF, Gaula Flyfishing Lodge, Norwegian Flyfishers Club, and Winsnes Flyfishing Lodge) for taking a principled step in protecting the salmon even better on your beats. We encourage all other managers of Atlantic salmon to implement similar locally tailored measures to help it through the crisis it is facing.
A new vise head, designed for the tiniest hooks but also gripping larger hooks securely. The head’s design simplifies attaching and tying the smallest nymphs and dry flies, providing ample workspace while keeping the hook firmly in place.
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There is probably no fly tyer in the world who is not familiar with Whiting Farms and at least a couple of their products. For those who tie dry flies, hackle from one of the genetically bred roosters is a must and has been for over 35 years. That’s how long Dr. Tom Whiting has been in the business of developing feathers for fly tying, but his interest in poultry goes much further than that.
TNew lines have been developed, either from scratch or from existing breeds. “
om Whiting grew up in Denver, Colorado, and even as a child he had a passionate interest in chickens and birds. When the family moved to the Denver suburbs, Tom had the opportunity to keep some chickens and begin his career as an egg producer for his neighbors, gaining insight into how to breed and crossbreed different breeds to produce desired characteristics.
In the years that followed, Tom attended various universities and earned several degrees in poultry breeding and genetics. He also received a solid education through the various companies in the industry he worked for, whether it was egg production or poultry
The fact that it was in poultry production that he would become world famous for was due to a variety of circumstances. Henry Hoffman, a pioneer in the field of producing feathers for fly tying, wanted to close his business. Hoffman, who started his business in Oregon in the mid-60s, was among the first to raise birds with a focus on dry fly feathers. Hoffman was tying commercially, especially dry flies. He knew how difficult it was to find the right feathers and how much searching among Indian and Chinese capes was
Especially hard to find were the black and white striped grizzly hackles. However, after much research, he found a group of Plymouth Rock chickens, which he began to selectively breed and quite soon produced feathers of a much higher and more consistent quality than ever before. This allowed him to fill his need for high quality feathers, but soon enough he was able to sell the surplus to other fly tyers.
For the first 15 years of his business, only grizzlies were produced, and at its peak the business produced about 2200 birds per year. In the early 1980s, Hoffman wanted to phase out the time-consuming production and retire, and the idea of selling the entire operation appealed. However, finding the right person to take over was easier said than done.
After about 5 years, he encountered Tom Whiting and they agreed that the latter would take over Hoffman’s production, which now also included other breeds such as white and brown.
Henry Hoffman promised to be present as a consultant in the coming years and the entire production was moved from Oregon to western Colorado, where the business still exists. In 1989, the first Hoffman chicks hatched in the new facility in Delta, Colorado, and the company changed its name from Hoffman Hackle to Whiting Farms. The operation grew in production from 5000 birds the first year to what it is today. At the same time as expanding the production of the existing birds, work began on developing new products.
As soon as they hatch, the chicken are sorted for gender and separated into roosters and hens.
The first was the Hebert/Miner, developed in 1995. This is the second-best line of dry fly products after Hoffman (Red Label) and has the largest variety of hackle in natural colors. Since then, new lines have been developed, either from scratch or from existing breeds.
One of the biggest innovations was the production of Coq de Leon birds from Spain. This is the oldest breed of chicken used for fly tying and Whiting are the only ones outside Europe to produce these birds. In the mid 90’s they also developed the Whiting American, which is the first commercial line of feathers for wet flies and streamers. Later (1997) Whiting Spey was added in an attempt to develop an alternative to salmon flies to replace heron hackles.
There is also production of Brahma, as a replacement for game birds such as partridge and grouse. Since 2015, Whiting Farms has been housed in new and more modern facilities. They took over an old existing farm and replaced it with more appropriate buildings. In 3 of the barns are the breeding groups of all the breeds, both birds for poultry production, but also breeds bred for egg and chicken producers. The eggs from these breeding birds are collected and labeled with the correct name twice a day and transferred to the hatchery.
Here the eggs are kept in a cool place for about a week, until enough have been collected to start the egg hatching machines. There are 4, each of which can hold up to 18700 eggs. Under constant supervision, the eggs are incubated at the right temperature and humidity for over 18 days before being transferred to the hatching machines. Here, the eggs are placed in plastic cages, where the chicks then hatch over the next few days.
Once all the chicks have hatched, they are sexed and sorted into roosters and hens. The chickens are transferred to a specially designed house, with heat lamps for the first few weeks. Gradually the chickens’ living space is increased as they grow. After a couple of weeks, they are moved to individual cages in one of the other barns, where they grow for about 9-11 months.
The actual production of necks and saddles takes place at another facility a short distance away. Here the birds are killed, and extremely knowledgeable staff ensure that nothing is destroyed and everything is used. In the plant, the skins are washed, dried and, if necessary, dyed. The products are then sorted and graded before being packed for delivery to distributors and customers worldwide.
The all-new HOOK JAW by Regal Vise was designed for you in mind! The brand-new jaw is for the perfectionist tyer that loves those small, intricate patterns. The cut-out, hook-style design allows for greater access to tie down at the bend of the shank without needing to reposition your hook. Of course, you can position your hook in class Regal-fashion; however, we added more material to the tip of these jaws so you can keep the hook point in the jaws itself! No more snagging! This new jaw will make tying a breeze without sacrificing any of that Regal Vise Bulldog Bite.
range at www.flyfisheurope.com/regal/
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