no1.2009 a magazine from loop tackle design about flyfishing and all the other important stuff in life! www.looptackle.se
make casting easier and much more enjoyable! tips from eoin price: 5 euro / 6 usd / “the premiere issue!” magazine
dead drift dryfly
loop product catalog p.31b
formula 1 in atlantic salmon flyfishing!
monster char
adventure and wilderness to the max!
portfolio
Stop dreaming, Go here, Do this, Now!
kamchatka the river of dreams. p.06
loop adventures destinations and all new info. p.20
“the blood and gristle flew and i looked as if i’d been on the battlefield...” don crillo’s craziest story p.58
meet orri the salmon’s best friend! p.30
inc to the crowd!
Welcome to Loop Magazine! Welcome to the first edition of “Loop Magazine”. The intent is to present a combined catalog and event periodical from Loop Tackle Design. As this is a first attempt, bear in mind that we will continue to develop and improve upon it. We hope to deliver two issues per year.
In Pursuit of Perfection
Ever since the company started 30 years ago, the driving force for us has naturally always been the pure enjoyment of fly fishing. Just as important though, has been the will to be at the cutting edge of the development of useful equipment with which to pursue our passion. The satisfaction of delivering a rod and line that handle a certain situation better than others has proven for us time and again to be enormous. Sometimes it’s the simple, obvious innovations that are the hardest to come upon and also prove to be the most useful. The X-Grip is such an example. There are no tennis racquets made with a fine-sanded full-wells grip – and there’s a reason for that! There is no rod that can’t be made better, stronger or easier to cast. There is no line that can’t be improved upon – especially when combined with a unique rod for a certain purpose. There is no fly reel that can’t be modernized. The same applies to waders and clothing. This is the philosophy that drives us at Loop. The assortment that bears our name today is the result of 30 years of development, testing and improvement and uniquely reflects the thoughts, ideas and experience of our staff. We are proud of what we have to offer today, but are always mindful that the status quo is a temporary situation and our love for development will push us to new levels as early as the coming season. Keep an eye on our website!
Adventures
Products, instruction/courses and travel have always been the cornerstones of our business model. We were among the first to offer anglers the opportunity to fish for Atlantic salmon on the Russian Kola Peninsula. We had many camps in the best venues such as Umba, Kharlovka, Rynda, Litza, Strelna and Ponoi. As Russia became crowded, we shifted our attention seven years ago to the desolate reaches of Argentine Patagonia and the world’s best Seatrout fishery, the Rio Gallegos. Our Lodge at Las Buitreras is among the finest in the world and ideally situated on the best beats the Gallegos has to offer. Four years ago, we complimented the Seatrout program with a camp at the banks of the world’s absolute best wild rainbow fishery which we christened “Jurassic Lake”. Just recently we have added a tropic salt venue to the program at Santa Maria de la Casa Batida, Cuba. Migratory tarpon, bonefish, permit, barracuda and jack are all on the menu. Our intent and motive with the adventure program has always been to offer the best and most unique fishing the planet has to offer for the best possible price. All of our destinations breathe flyfishing, flytying, casting instruction and technique development. Our venues have always been the proving grounds for our equipment and they offer visiting anglers a unique opportunity to develop while they fish in these great locations! I’d like to close by thanking all of you who support Loop by trusting our gear and being our ambassadors in the field. Without you our work would be meaningless. Tusen Tack!(A thousand thanks!) //Christer Sjöberg, christer@looptackle.se
YO
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P.S.
“Loop Magazine” reflects only a small portion of our assortment. To get the full picture, please visit our website at: www.looptackle.se. Our web pages are also under constant development, so if you haven’t looked lately there are sure to be surprises in the form of new products, video and cool photos!
loop magazine #01.2009
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switch style. The Opti Switch Style rod is the ultimate crossover between a single- and double-hand rod. It´s light, it´s fairly fast, and with a smooth progressive action it´s distinctively Loop. It comes with the hexagonal X-grip handle and is built with the new durable cross weave technology. Opti Switch Style is available in two models: the 10’7� - 4 pcs #6 and the 10’7� - 4 pcs #8.
PRO TESTIMONIAL *--. 0-" *',# "#1'%,#0 * 1 3'20#0 1 ! +. + , %#0 )* 31 $0'+-0 -32 2&# ,#5 -.2E 15'2!& 127*# 6 %0'. Ž5DAJ SA OP=NPA@ PDA ?KJOPNQ?PEKJ KB PDA -LPE 1SEP?D PDA CK=H S=O PK >QEH@ = NK@ SEPD = NAH=PERAHU ODKNP HAJCPD =J@ HECDP HEJA ?H=OO PD=P ?KQH@ ?=OP HEGA = NA=H @KQ>HA D=J@ NK@ 'P PQNJA@ KQP >APPAN PD=J SA D=@ DKLA@ +=JU 1SEP?D NK@O KJ PDA I=NGAP LNAOAJP =O CKK@ ?=OPEJC OEJCHA D=J@ NK@O >QP >Q?GHA EJ PDA IE@ OA?PEKJ SDAJ LKSAN EO =LLHEA@ SEPD = PSK D=J@ ?=OP RKE@EJC PDEO ?KIIKJ LNK>HAI >A?=IA = H=NCA L=NP KB PDA @AOECJ 'P QOA@ PK >A PD=P PDEO � NK@ ?KI>EJ=PEKJ‘ C=RA PDA SKNOP BNKI >KPD PDA OEJCHA =J@ @KQ>HA D=J@ ?=OPEJC =J@ BEODEJC LANOLA?PERAO 2DA -LPE 1SEP?D D=O IAHPA@ PDA >AOP KB >KPD EJPK KJA @AHECDPBQH NK@ �
loop fly tackle & adventures | www.looptackle.se
content www.looptackle.se
pag e
art icl e
editorial Publisher: Loop Tackle Design info@looptackle.se Editor in Chief: Yngve ask yngve@scanout.com Art Director & Design: Peter Huber peter@scanout.com Product catalog Design: Henrik Behrnerts henrik@looptackle.se Contributing Writers: Reid Zoller, Tim Pask, Eoin Fairgrieve, Christer Sjöberg, Yngve Ask, Johan Persson Friberg, Peter Huber, Peter Cristensen, Martin Falklind, André Brun. Contributing Photographers: Tim Pask, Ola Nilsson, Peter Huber, Stefan Haider, Peter Cristensen, Johan Persson Friberg, Martin Falklind, André Brun. Advertising: Yngve Ask yngve@scanout.com Print: Ljungbergs Tryckeri/Sweden LOOP TACKLE DESIGN Box 195 S-184 22 Åkersberga/Sweden Phone: +46 8 544 101 90 Fax: +46 8 544 101 99 E-mail: info@looptackle.se
Please recycle this magazine! This magazine is printed on environmental friendly paper.
We can´t accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and photos or for materials lost or damaged in the post. Nothing in this LOOP Magazine may be reproduced whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Although we at the magazine have endeavored to ensure that all information contained therein is correct, prices and certain details may be subject to change. Opinions, views and content of the magazine are not necessary those of
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kamchatka with a vengea nce scotlands dark history... arctic char syrstad flyfishing school loop adventures + servic e a salt letter from boniare north to alaska casting tips by eoin fairg rieve swims with sails orri - salmon’s best frien d
LOOP Product Catalog!
page 31
41 47 50 56 58 62
portfolio: photo gallery sponsorship of fish-tv-ser ies salmon on dryflies new fishing dvd:s! don crillo’s craziest story last words!
LOOP Tackle. LOOP is a registered trademark.
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As a boy I spent my days dreaming of seeing the world one trout at a time. Every other week would see me hatch a new, bold plan on how and where to carry out my longing for distant rivers and wild fish. All these plans amounted to nothing except obstructing the efforts of my desperate teachers. One fatal day in my final year of high school I heard about the long Siberian peninsula in the northeastern corner of Russia named Kamchatka‌ _text peter a christensen photo p.a. christensen & eric argolli
Kamchatka Russia
Kamchatka with a vengeance
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Wild, beautiful and totally full of classic spots.
n Initially it was the very sound of the place – Kamchatka – that I found irresistible and appealing. Upon finding it on a map, the fascination grew even stronger. The extreme remoteness of the place and its utter detachment from the rest of the world spoke to me. Attached to Eurasia, forming a no man’s land that to me seemed to be well beyond the wide world’s end at a point where the boredom of high school life couldn’t possibly exist. I knew I had to go there, and I convinced my best friend to join me on an expedition in pursuit of the mysterious Kamchatkan rivers.
Untouched remote rivers.
Popular fly patterns, big and bushy.
Healthy russian food!
Kamchatka’s treasures Kamchatka’s main attraction to the visiting fly fisher its strain of incredibly strong, wild rainbow trout. These fish offer one of the most spectacular challenges on the fly. Some of the rivers on Kamchatka’s northeast coast have some of the best rainbow trout fishing in the world and boast large populations of fat, greedy ’bows. What I find particularly attractive is the fact that these rainbows are perfectly adapted wild fish – a bit prehistoric almost. Rainbows are not Kamchatka’s only attraction. The salmon runs are some of the biggest in the world with around one third of the Pacific salmon population spawning on the peninsula’s rivers. The Silver salmon fishing in particular is excellent from the main run in mid-August until early September, and provides an action packed supplement to the rainbows. The salmon also support one of the strongest grizzly populations anywhere. Unlike some places in Alaska where the bears have grown accustomed to humans, these bears are very shy and cautious. Dangerous encounters are extremely rare and the minimal risk involved in fishing in bear country shouldn’t deter anybody. To me the strongest attraction is something less tangible. Kamchatka, in my opinion, is perhaps the last stronghold of truly pristine river systems, some of which are so remote and inaccessible that they represent a world quite apart from the polluted, 21st century world most of us live in. All of the fish are likely to live their lives without ever seeing a hook or the impact of man. The paths snaking along the riverbanks are trodden by bear and moose, not hordes of tourists. Sadly, to fish in such a place is a privilege our generation may be the last to enjoy. From Russia with love On a warm day in July, 2005 my friend Rasmus and I finally arrive on Kamchatka after a 9-hour domestic flight from Moscow. During a year’s break from studying we had managed to save just enough cash to pay for the plane ticket and hire three local guides that agreed to take us to the Two Yurt river on horseback. We were19, abroad for the first time and had no idea what we were doing. We were naive enough not only to think we could reach the river without a helicopter (it is situated hundreds of miles into bleak wilderness), but
that all Kamchatkan rivers would hold the rainbows of our dreams. Our guides for the expedition belonged to the aboriginal people of central Kamchatka, and made a living hunting bears in the rugged Sridinny mountains. Their gear for the trip included archaic rifles and knives and fake Adidas clothes. Rasmus was none too impressed and after two weeks on birch-wood saddles, without any near hope of reaching Two Yurt River I made a mental note to heed his concerns in the future. This precaution is no remedy to my immediate problem, though. The river in front of me was not the one we were looking for and was 150 feet wide. In order to reach our camp for the night, it would have to be crossed - on horseback. For protection against bears we had Laika dogs and they promptly jumped into the maelstrom, only to be dragged howling and barking downstream for about 200 yards. I gave my horse a gentle kick in the ribs and after a frightening swim we finally reached the opposite shore. We finally decided it was too close a call to risk more of the same and opted to head back to civilization, giving up our dream of reaching Two Yurt. Afterwards we spent another two months searching Kamchatka for pristine rivers in vain. Tragically, we hit one invincible challenge after the other and in the end we realized that Kamchatka holds its treasures well hidden. Kamchatka with a vengeance Even though the dramatic summer of 2005 wasn’t a success as far as fishing is concerned, a number of golden memories were carved into my soul. Still, I longed for that big Kamchatka ’bow! Searching for revenge I stumbled onto Will Blair, a US-based outfitter running the Best of Kamchatka, dedicated to fly fishing adventures there. After speaking to him my original fairytale expectations for Kamchatka were quickly restored when he told me about his program on the Ozernaya and Two Yurt rivers. No horses, impenetrable wilderness or flooded rivers - just a smooth, well run camp with easy helicopter access tone of the best rainbow trout river in the world. A few months later I finally set foot on the banks of the Ozernaya for the first time. It runs just by the camp, nestled in an enormous fireweed meadow. Standing on the bank with the other guests performing the initial civilities I spot no less than seven rainbows slowly cruising by, in addition to three stationary rainbows right in front of us. Two of them sip dries at regular intervals and are well over twenty inches. The spot is totally featureless, just a gravelly, flat bottom and about two feet of water. Every now and then a big king appears out of the river’s veiled middle, breaking the continuous line of chums moving up river to spawn. Despite a fair number of trips to some very remote areas of the world I have never witnessed such a richness – the river is just as
All of the fish are born wild, they are likely to live their lives without ever seeing a hook. loop magazine #01.2009
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I imagined in my high school daydreams. As the sun sets over the distant mountains we toast in vodka to a good week’s fishing, and deep inside I know that my revenge is within reach at last. Apocalypse on the Oz I wake up the next day with a headache and a lot of confidence. I grab my Loop 6-weight and head for the jet boats where I find my guide Sergei waiting. We zoom downstream under a clear, blue sky through a fairytale landscape of lush green hills and ancient birch woods. Two bears have left their morning fishing late and crash into the forest in wild panic the second they notice the boat approaching. The first few hours were magic and I must have caught more than fifteen beautiful rainbows, many around 20 inches and a few over 24. I would have caught many more if it weren’t for the Dolly Varden and Grayling that kept nailing my mouse off the top. Fishing continued like this for the rest of the week and needless to say, I got my revenge… Magic on the Two Yurt Following the spectacular time on Ozernaya I was transferred by MI-8 helicopter south to the Two Yurt River for a week-long float trip. During the flight I see hardly any sign of human activity - just huge expanses of wilderness in the most extreme sense of the word. In the distant horizon the Kluychevskaya volcano rises 15500 feet into thin air, snow-white and majestic. The very upper stretch of the Two Yurt is reached by a tough trek on bear tracks and has some of the most insane fishing imaginable. Sweating under the waders I reach the shore of the lake which is a big opaque crater surrounded by high ridges. Water the clarity of vodka flows into the stream, where lush green weed bushes provide perfect ambush cover for lurking rainbows. There are Kings and Dolly Vardens present and every pool is dark from thousands of silvers schooling tight waiting for the spawning frenzy
Kamchatkas bows are unique and something really special for those who get a shot at them.
to begin. Thousands of fierce rainbows are packed under the salmon like tinned herring and nearly every time my mouse pops its way across the river a bow wave rises behind it and inhales it in a violent splash. My thirst for vengeance is satisfied! My initial meeting with Kamchatka was an expensive lesson, but standing in knee-deep water on the Two Yurt holding on to my rod for dear life as yet another big rainbow heads north makes all the previous disappointments vanish like dew under the morning sun. I feel I have reached the end of a long search for the river of dreams. q
Local hunter on 1 horse power.
Some of the best rainbow trout fishing in the world, boasting a very big population of fat, greedy ’bows.
Practical info! Unlike Alaska there are very few serious outfitters operating on Kamchatka. Establishing camps and exploring remote rivers are extremely expensive projects. Some of the well-known southern rivers like the Opala, Bystraya and Zhupanova are fished very hard and the experience on those can’t be compared to the much more remote and pristine northeastern rivers like Ozernaya and Two Yurt. I recommend researching the market thoroughly before booking a trip. Kamchatka offers some of the world’s finest fishing, but like any exotic destination there are tourist traps to be avoided. As mentioned in the article I was with Will Blair from The Best of Kamchatka. I can wholeheartedly recommend his operation. More info available can be found at:
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Another local hunter.
Author with nice bow.
The ultimate hunting binoculars
The new Monarch X is sure to change the way you hunt. These new binoculars from Nikon come with the latest optical technology. Dielectric, high-reflectivity multilayer prism coating assures uniformly high light transmission. So you get clear and natural-colour images‌ even at sunrise or sunset. The large 45 mm objective diameter further enhances performance. Also, O ring seals and nitrogen gas mean the Monarch X series binoculars stay waterproof and fog-free. Other features include slim, stylish body design with rubber coating for a firm, Monarch 10.5x45 DCF comfortable grip.
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Monarch 8.5x40 DCF
lifestyle
The beer is made according to traditional methods and stored in oak vessels.
A moment of dark history... The River Tweed.
The Traquair House Brewery still uses the original oak vessels, to produced an ale that starts with malted barley hops, and to this day use neither additives, or preservatives to create this powerful, natural beer. Founded in 1965 the brewery produces 200,000 bottles of dark -liquid heaven, yet the River Tweed hardly notices, as it continues to draw salmon anglers from around the globe to hunt for bars of silver among its twisting currents. _text eoin fairgrieve _photo yngve ask n Rising in the Tweedsmuir hills, the River Tweed runs through the rolling border landscape like a main artery giving life to the surrounding landscape. The river supports the local economy in a number of different shapes and forms. Anglers come from all over the world to fish for Atlantic salmon, and sport fishing alone contributes 18 million pounds to the local economy each year. Over the last few hundred years, the river has sustained a number of different industries including agriculture and in particular the woolen industry. As long ago as the 13th century, wool has been produced and exported from Border towns to all over the world. The industrial revolution brought great prosperity to the Scottish Borders and each town had a number of mills producing Tweed cloth. During this era, the power to fuel the
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industry came from harnessing the River Tweed and its tributaries. Today the river’s main business is very much sport angling. Angling directly supports jobs like ghillies and boatmen, who guide anglers on the various salmon beats up and down the length of the river. The beats are mainly owned by large country estates who own sections of the river. Such is the real estate value of salmon fishing that beats tend to be between one to two miles in length. Kings and Queens One of the well known salmon beats in upper section of the Tweed not only gains income from letting the rights to fish for salmon on their water, but also from brewing its own unique beer! The Traquair beat is nestled above the small border town of Innerleithen,
surrounded on both sides by rolling border hills and dense forestation. The beat is owned by Traquair House, which is the oldest inhabited house in Scotland. For centuries this grand house has had various connections with Kings and Queens of Scotland, in particular Mary Queen of Scots. Located on the side of the main house (circa 1107), the brewery was originally set up in the 18th century as a domestic brewery producing beer for the house and estate workers. After 1800, the brewery lay dormant for many years with all the vessels and equipment remaining untouched until it was rediscovered in 1965 by the 20th Laird of Traquair, Peter Maxwell Stuart. The brewey The Traquair House Brewery was founded the same year and now produces between 600 and 700 barrels per year – 200,000 bottles of rich, dark, liquid heaven! The water is not drawn from the river, but natural underground springs drawn from the hills on the estate and the brewing process is still done in the origi-
nal style, using the original oak vessels for all brewery production. The ale is made from malted barley, hops, without any additives or preservatives. A powerful, natural beer weighing in at a hefty 7.2% alcohol per bottle! Although the brewery exports all around the world, a glass of Traquair House Ale can be enjoyed after a hard day’s fishing at one of the many pubs and hotels that host anglers along the length of the river. One of Tweed’s finest and best known fishing hotels is the Ednam House Hotel located in Kelso. The Ednam House Hotel has been looking after anglers for over 75 years. Owned and run by the Brooks family since 1928 the hotel is now managed by Anne and Ralph Brooks – the fourth generation of Brooks to welcome anglers through their doors. The hotel was originally built as a home for wealthy businessman James Dickson in 1761 and although the original building has been extended over the years, it still retains many of the original ceilings, woodwork and fireplaces. Once you climb up the small steps to the hotel reception, it’s like stepping back in time.
The water is not drawn from the river, but natural underground springs drawn from the hills on the estate and the brewing process is still done in the original style. The hotel.
As you enter the main door, to the right of the huge roaring fireplace is a cabinet full of antique tackle. Old brass reels of every shape and size and a selection of antique flies and spinning lures - the envy of any collector worth their salt. An old picture frame hangs from the wall, full of old fishing photographs of a bygone age. Old black and white images capture the moment huge salmon were displayed with great pride by their captors. The ceilings in the main sitting room and lounge are quite spectacular. The ceilings depict a scene from Greek mythology of the horseman Apollo, riding across the sky in a regal chariot - it’s fair to say this is a special place! Special place The hotel is as much a meeting place for anglers as it is a place to stay. After fishing finishes for the day anglers congregate in the hotel bar to exchange stories, discuss tactics and exchange flies for the following day. The bar is where new friendships are formed and new fishing partners are met for future trips. Above the main bar hangs a huge old fashioned fishing map of the Tweed detailing each of the salmon beats across the entire length of the river, with each pool on each beat marked and and named. On either side of the bar, framed classic salmon flies give an insight into the river’s past as do old split cane fishing rods hanging from the walls, forced into retirement twenty years earlier with the advent of carbon fiber. Yes, it’s fair to say this is a special place. If you are lucky enough to stay at the hotel or even just have a drink in the bar, take a moment to savor the atmosphere and surroundings – If you’re enjoying a glass of Traquair Ale at the time, then even better! q
Traquair House Brewery Phone: 44(0)1896830323 www.traquair.co.uk
Ednam House Hotel Phone: +44(0)1573 224168 W: www.ednamhouse.com
Traquair House Brewey Innerleithen, Peeblesshire EH44 6PW, Scotland. Phone: +44 (0)1896 830323
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monster Ekaluk River char and arctic wilderness to the max
We are visitors in Canada’s remote arctic wilderness, patiently waiting for the event of the year – the huge arctic char run. The resident musk ox and arctic fox seem unimpressed‌ _text peter huber _photo yngve ask 12
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In the north of Canada on Victoria Island the river Ekaluk has carved it way through the landscape for an untold number of years. It’s Nunavut country and the nature is beautiful, hard and ruthless. The river is famous for its big sea run arctic char. Every year in late August, 90,000 fish make the five kilometer run from the sea to the lake for spawning. The river is almost totally empty the entire year but for those magic two to three weeks the char invade. Showing up late for work is not an option...
Top picture: The ’Ekaluk camp’ and our simple home for 2 weeks. Obove left: The Inuits created these stone figures called “Inukchuk” to alert others of good hunting, fishing or even directions from place to place. Obove right: Waiting for the big one before the sun sets. Below: Big, bushy and heavy flies are best for these super aggressive fish. The best colors were fluorescent pink, green and yellow. Right: Chrome bright, these fish were very aggressive and would attack our flies without warning.
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Victoria Island Nunavut Canada
For us coffee lovers a cup of strong espresso was priceless. In the far north everything tastes a bit more intense and you are grateful for things that you take for granted back in the real world. Most of the fish are released, but the Inuits keep a few for food. Here there were several strips hanging to dry on rows of wooden poles. Ready to eat! Christer releasing a hard fighting char.
...in the arctic mother nature controls the game in which life and death are played out with a simple set of rules, dubbed ’survival of the fittest’. This male Muskox didn’t survive the long hard winter, but the bear that moved in the following day, just might survive the coming winter. .
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Left: Wrestling a beautiful, silver 20-pounder caught on a single-hand rod… true love! For centuries the Ekaluk River has played a vital role in the lives of the local Inuit people, as it has provided “Life’s Protein” for them and many of the animals that call the area home. The surrounding area is also rich in bird life and is perfect for day hikes and exploring nature.
Grizzly protection!
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The local arctic bus, a 56 Beaver, took us from Cambridge Bay to the river.
...releasing a wild fish back to it’s mother, gives you a sharp feeling of being alive.
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Bear proof? Not hardly, but we still found our tent homey as we explored further away from the main camp.
Crystal clear the Ekaluk becomes a welcome host to some 90,000 chrome bright char, that often seem like silver streaks of light as they make their way up the river system. As our trip was coming to an end the weather took a turn for the worse, and high winds, and cold temperatures moved in with a fury that tore at our bones. As the river blew out and turned to a milky brown, we were once again reminded how fragile we really were. Our new friends the Muskox didn’t seem to notice the change in weather.
ekaluk fishing n The fish start to rise from the . ocean by mid-August each year the nd arou peak its The run reaches r afte e ther and ust Aug of 5:nd 20-2 next the for dy stea remains heavy & is three weeks. The tackle we used used ally typic is t very similar to wha d for Atlantic Salmon and Steelhea warm a extr g brin ys fishing. And alwa clothes, unless you think you can snuggle with a Muskox. WEB! www.arcticflyfishing.com/ fishingEkaluk.htm
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good to know! I am hugry = Kaliqtunga Yes = Hii I feel cold = Qaiyligama How are you = Qanuritpit Fish = Iqaluk Coffee = Kapi Water = Imaq I want to go to the toilet = Kuuyaqturumayunga There you go, you are ready for the tundra!
The End
TRY LOOP flyFISHING SCHOOL!
The fishing school where knowledge and expertise are in focus! After many years as Europe’s leading fly-fishing school we are proud to present a product that is better than ever. u u u u u
9.5 kilometers of river exclusively for flyfishing Our own salmon-angler’s guest house The famous Syrstad brothers. Houses and lodges available by the river Food prepared by a gourmet chef Arrangements tailor-made for individuals, groups, companies and more.
At the fishing-school you will find people from all walks of life. They will range from those without any fly-fishing experience at all to those who have been fishing for many years. Our courses are individually adapted to address each individual’s different needs and wishes. Most activities will take place in and around the Syrstad Laksepensjonat. This guest house is specially designed with salmon anglers in mind. It has its own facility for smoking fish. There is a dryer and a storage room for waders and all fishing gear. You will even find disinfection equipment for fishing gear in order to avoid the spreading of water-born deceases.
It also has a show room for video and lectures and there is a Salmon Pub for socializing during the stay. The modern kitchen serves high quality food prepared by a highly-trained professional chef. The entire operation is saturated with atmosphere arranged for salmonanglers by salmon-anglers. We are a team of professionals. Our courses attract anglers throughout the entire season. That gives us the opportunity to lease some of the river Orkla’s most attractive stretches. We choose stretches that are represented at the top of the catch- statistics year after year and are perfect for fly-fishing. Four beats and a total of
nine kilometers (of which more than fifty percent is available from both sides of the river) are at our disposal. The main parts of the beats are easily accessible and easy to fish. This makes a successful result very likely for everyone, including even those with minimum experience. We provide the knowledge, the experience and some of the country’s finest salmon water. You provide the willingness to learn and the hope of successful days here with us at the river. Our common goal is to improve everyone’s fly-fishing skills to the maximum during four days at the Syrstad Fly-Fishing School.
knut@syrstad.no trond@syrstad.no
want to book?
“They will range from those without any fly-fishing experience at all to those who have been fishing for many years.”
loop magazine #01.2009
19
ion
destinat
cuba
travel destinations. Most people have dreams, we think you should live them. Check out our destionations and pick one. You will not have any regrets!
www.
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loopadventures
.com
Casa Batida – Santa Maria NEW 2009!
This is fly fishing’s Formula One. To have the chance, with the help of a skilled guide, to place your fly in front of an enormous tarpon is an experience in and of itself! If the fish eats, the real adventure begins and fight is like being attached to a bus that jumps! There are bonefish on shallow, clear flats that take in plain view and then run you into your backing again and again. All the fishing here is pure adrenaline. Prime time for migrating tarpon is April through August. Resident tarpon, bonefish and permit are available from January through October.
Las Buitreras - Rio Gallegos
This is our key lodge which many of our well-traveled guests claim is the best they’ve ever visited. Las Buitreras offers an unbelievable experience ranging from technical fishing to a warm and familiar lodge with world class food and drink. We have 40 kilometers of double-bank fishing, over 50 named pools and only 10 rods per week! Seatrout up to 10-12 kilos are not uncommon and usually a light single-hand 7/8 is all that’s required. Flies range from small streamers and nymphs to large tubes in high water. The takes are savage and the fights spectacular with long runs and acrobatic jumps typical. All of this occurs in an environment untouched by the modern world and very reminiscent of the Wild West. One must experience this. Read the weekly reports and check out the photos on our website. Season: January through mid-April.
Jurassic Lake
The lake is 20 kilometers long, 15 kilometers wide and has a river that runs down to it on our beat. It is here that the so-called “Jurassic Rainbow” is found. Both bodies of water are full of rainbows upwards of 15 kilos. Their diet consists of scuds and shrimp and the results are freakish! The fish are stout and round as footballs and unique in the world. Loop has a warm, cozy dome tent camp on platforms right at the confluence of the river where all the fish gather. Many say the journey is too long – most of these folks have never been there to hear the reel sing time and time again! Loop was the first to bring tourists here and we have the best position on the lake! Season: November through mid-April.
book your trip at
travel@looptackle.se
Loop Lodge Gear... u Casa Batida-Santa Maria Fly fishing in salt water requires heavy gear and the investment can be substantial – particularly if you don’t live in a place where you can use it often. We provide complete outfits in all of our skiffs – rods with the X-Grip, large-arbor reels with the power matrix braking system and our new lines especially designed for the rod and fish in question. You are welcome to travel light and let us sort the tackle out for you. u Las Buitreras At the lodge we have both single and doublehand outfits with special lines such as hi-density core and special wind tapers. You are welcome to use them. u Jurassic Lake Even at our rustic camp at the shores of the lake we have all the gear and flies required to outfit you for the tack at hand.
Scandinavia Contact Christer Sjöberg Phone: +46 70 666 86 32 Mail: christer@looptackle.se US Contact Joe Roope Phone: +1 800 410 3133 Mail: jroope@castawayflyfishingshop.com
north america
service center Loop has had a cult following in the US for many years. We’ve had dealers come and go over that period of time and the customers that bought Loop gear were thrilled and satisfied with the uniqueness and functionality of our products. The common complaint was always service. Loop is a Swedish company and didn’t have direct service representation on the ground in North America at the time.
Things have changed! In the beginning of 2008 we set up a distribution hub in the US and established two service centers to cover the country. The intent is that all Loop customers have access to efficient equipment service, repair and replacement. The service centers are also the retail shops that carry the entire line of Loop gear including hard to find items not typically found in the US assortment.
CASTAWAY FLY SHOP 1114 N 4th St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 www.castawayflyfishingshop.com Phone: 800-410-3133 Fax: (208) 765-4646 Mobile: (208) 755-4646 Email: jroope@castawayflyfishingshop.com Joe Roope’s Castaway Fly Shop in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho has been involved in the Loop program for a number of years and was servicing Loop warranty requests long before the shop was officially designated a service center. He and his staff have taken the lead and can handle everything from reel repair to rod replacement. In addition to sales and service, Castaway runs instruction clinics in the summer and guided fishing all year long.
BEAR’S DEN FLY FISHING CO. 98 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 www.bearsden.com Phone: 508-977-0700 Email: scott@bearsden.com Scott Wessel’s Bear’s Den in Taunton, Massachusetts is our second designated US service center provides an outlet for warranty service east of the Mississippi. The Bear’s Den also has the entire Loop line of products and arranges clinics, guided fishing and travel.
loop magazine #01.2009
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Letter from
Bonaire
---------------Love at first sight! The first time I heard about Bonaire, I was fishing for bonefish in Tobago, and met a Dutch guy named Edwin. He told me about a trip he’d done a couple of years ago. He spoke of huge flats, called the saltpans, knee-deep, full of bonefish... music to a fly fisherman’s ears. Later he sent me a map of the island, with directions to some of the best spots. With this information there was really only one right thing to do; go get tickets! Almost exactly two years after I first met Edwin on the flats of Tobago and he told me about the Bonefish of the Bonaire salt pans, my wife, Cathrine, two-year old son Loke, and I landed at the Flamingo airport. We were tired from a long trip, but full of anticipation of what the coming three and a half weeks would bring. The next day we got in the car and took a trip around the island. Of course there were few fly rods in the back seat. Just five minutes away from where we were staying, we stopped to look at a group of flamingos. And after getting a few pictures of the birds, a little tidal stream running from the ocean into the flamingo pond, caught my eye. There, in the current right by the road was a small school of barracuda. I got a rod and two casts later I stood there with a broken tippet. Losing a fly to a Barracuda isn’t the end of the world - especially as I had told my wife that I wouldn’t fish the first day, just get to know the island. I probably got what I deserved. Later that day we went to a local beach. After a couple of Cuba Libres from the beach bar I started getting restless. I find beach life about as interesting as watching paint dry... So my son and I went for a walk. At the end of the beach there was a jetty, where the local fishermen came in with their catch at the end of the day. A fisherman I talked to told me there were lots of Bonefish on almost every beach around the island, but they didn’t pay them much attention as the bonefish isn’t too
Hundreds of tailing Bonefish in the dim morning light.
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welcome on the dinner table. As I was speaking with the fisherman, Loke was running around on the jetty playing with a juvenile Pelican which was totally tame. Suddenly I heard him shout, “se isken, se isken!” or, “Look at the fish, look at the fish!” He had found a school of grey snapper and beneath the snapper was a five pound Bonefish digging in the sand! This got my blood boiling and all good intentions of not fishing the first day went right out the window! I put Loke on my shoulders to drop him off at the beach with my wife. All the way back he was talking about the fish he’d seen. I thought, ‘I’ve created a monster, spotting Bonefish at the age of two...‘ After running to the car and grabbing my fly gear, I went to the beach not far from where we’d seen the fish. I waded out on some rocks in a shallow area in the blue/ turquoise water, and stood there waiting, hoping to see a grey shadow appear on the sandy bottom next to the turtle grass. After about five minutes I saw the first fish and it hit me like a lightning strike! My first shot at a bonefish in more than a year! The immediate reaction was CAST! Luckily, my brain took over. The fish was too close, and making even the slightest movement would be a sure way to spook it. The Bonefish swam right pass me, a rod length away, and disappeared into the blue. My heart sank. Funny how one can go from an emotional high to low in five seconds and all because of a little grey fish! They say that good things come to those who wait, and for once this was true. Fifteen minutes after the first fish had disappeared, another one appeared twenty meters from where I was standing. I had an excellent view and with the sun at my back I saw the fish searching for food at the edge of the turtle grass. Perfect! I made two false casts and put the fly five meters in front of the feeding fish. This was the moment of truth... The fly landed perfectly and as the fish got close I made two mini-strips and let the fly sink into the turtle grass. The bonefish followed, tipped its head and picked up the fly like it was the most natural thing in the world. Strike! When you haven’t been bone fishing in over a year, you are not quite ready for its furious power. I stood there amazed as the fish ripped about a hundred meters of backing off my reel in the first run. After the first run I got my act together, put firm pressure on the fish and landed it.
All things had fallen into their place. I thought, ‘This is probably the closest a pagan Norwegian will ever come to heaven.’ One of the local fishermen came up to me on the beach afterwards and asked, “Do you always put the fish back?” I replied, “Nearly always.” He thought for a moment and then said, “You must really like fishing!” “I love it.” I replied. The rest of the trip I got up at five every morning and fished from around six until ten. Spotting and catching bonefish every day, I also caught a few other species. As bonefish was my primary target, I only fished for other fish when we went to the beach. It was cool to see our two year old son super excited every time we caught a snapper or a jack. He even got to release his first bonefish! One morning, five days before our flight back to Norway, I decided to try an area that I had seen on the map. It was quite far to walk, but having fished most of the southern part of the island already, I felt it was time for a change. I left at five in the morning and the ocean was dead calm - which as highly uncommon! The mosquitoes also appreciated the calm weather. As I walked through the mangroves to the flats they enjoyed their breakfast... The view that met me when I got out of the bushes and to the open flats made me forget about the bugs. Hundreds of bonefish tailed in the dim morning light. I felt like a fox in a chicken farm! The trick was not to act like one... I got down on my knees and crawled close to a group of fish that was feeding two feet from the shore. I put on a lightweight fly and dropped it right on the head of the closest fish. The take was instant and the cast was probably the most memorable I’ve ever made. After releasing the fish I took some pictures of the other tailing fish and managed to catch five more before the sun rose and drove them into deeper water. The following days I went to this spot every day and caught fish every time. Seeing and catching them in four to twenty inches of water is by far the coolest bone-fishing I’ve ever encountered. There are places in the world where it’s possible to catch a lot more bonefish than in Bonaire. There are not many places where you can do it all on your own, with all flats accessible by foot... I am currently refilling my bonefish fly boxes and longing for the next time I’ll wet a Bonefish Bitter on the salt pans of Bonaire. //Thank you Edwin for a great tip! Johan Persson Friberg
North to Alaska _text & photo tim pask
Early this past September, members of the Loop Army made an assault on Alaska’s Bristol Bay. While the threat of the Pebble Mine has gotten worldwide attention the fishery itself has simply continued its great tradition of delivering some of the world’s greatest fly fishing. Unfortunately I can’t tell you that the threat to the area is over - in fact it is bigger than ever. n The group was Andy Turner, Kim Nakamura, Eric Cederstand and me. Between us we had enough gear to open a fly shop and all were heavily concentrated rigging up in anticipation of the fishing.. I did a lot of Grayling fishing in my younger days, but the rivers and lakes that surround Bristol Bay grow them big. In fact it’s not uncommon to land Grayling in the four pound range. It made for great fun with our two- and three-weight outfits. I also loved the fact that we could fish small dry flies for these fish, and they came to them as if they had been starved for weeks. Anybody who has spent much time fly fishing in the area of Bristol Bay will more then
likely have focused most of their attention on Rainbows, and we were no different. There are countless rivers, lakes and streams with wild rainbows in them and they earn their name of Leopard Rainbow. These are amazing fish that grow large and beautiful. Each has its own specific color and dot pattern and no two are the same. Alaska is one of the few places on earth where trout will show you your backing, time and time again. We also had some competition with other anglers. Grizzly bears between 800-1400 lbs are plentiful in Bristol Bay and they are much more efficient, much larger and completely unafraid of their fellow anglers. We had several stretches simply taken away from us on a daily basis, but it was only a matter of turning the next bend to once again find great fishing. The rainbow fishing called for some heavier equipment, so we all traded our grayling setups for more traditional five- and six-weight combinations. Long casts were not the norm and we were prepared for flies such Mice, Salmon eggs, Stone flies and a variety of
Recovering from his recent battle with the Loop Army, this big Silver Salmon soon continued on his journey upriver.
“Alaska is one of the few places on earth where trout will show you your backing, time and time again...”
Your worst nightmare, and it¨s hungry!
Both beautiful and aggressive, leopard rainbows hooked their fair share of anglers from around the world.
other patterns. There are not many things as exciting as large rainbows smashing mice patterns, as they slip off the far bank. Most of the fishing is sight fishing. It’s extremely technical in most cases if you are hunting a specific fish. It’s not uncommon for smaller fish to be sitting close to the large fish and they are real opportunists. It’s amazing how fast the smaller fish are and just as your fly reaches the sweet spot, you’ll see a flash of silver and realize a much smaller fish as grabbed your fly. We traveled by float plane, which allowed us to visit several of Bristol Bay’s river systems. It’s really hard to cover much ground without this means of access, but it does add expense to your trip. I’d recommend going with a good outfitter who flies the area. We had some tough weather conditions, but found time to make it out to the coast and chase some chrome-fresh Silver Salmon around for a day. For this action we once again had to go heavier and found ourselves fishing seven- and eight-weight combinations and even some small double handlers. Silver Salmon just in from the sea are both acrobatic and strong fighters and we wore ourselves out chasing them up and down the river banks. I could not help but stare as we flew over Bristol Bay. The mere thought of putting an open pit mine near the headwaters of this amazing place seems beyond my comprehension, and we must not relax and trust that it will be taken care of for us. We are all in a huge fight to save what we all love and the truth is that the planet is under siege. But for this one week we let Bristol Bay show off and teach us a little but about nature and what wild fish can do if left alone. q
loop magazine #01.2009
23
flycasti ng
tips
eoi
with
n fairgrie ve
part.1
...casting is simply not only a means to get the fly out across the stream to hook a fish, fly casting is as much a part of fly fishing as feeling life at the end of a fly line.
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loop magazine #01.2009
Beginning my career as a ghillie on the River Tweed, I had the ideal setting to constantly develop my casting and my approach to fishing. My later association with Loop Tackle Design has allowed me to translate the skills gained on the water directly to the creation of fly casting equipment that makes fishing easier and more enjoyable! _text eoin fairgrieve photo yngve ask n I was first introduced to fly casting as a child growing up in a small town called Kelso in the Scottish Borders. This small market town is surrounded by gentle rolling hills with rich arable land and most importantly, the famous River Tweed. The River Tweed is about 97 miles long and is one of the most productive Atlantic salmon fisheries in the world. The river flows through the west side of the town and joins with Tweed’s biggest tributary, the River Teviot, above the old town bridge to form the fabled Junction Pool. The meeting of the two rivers forms one of salmon fishing’s most expensive stretches of real estate. During the prime months of October and November when salmon fishing on the Tweed system is at its best, anglers can expect to pay onwards of £1000 per day to fish the water. The reason for such a price is simple - the fishing can be outstanding!
The Perfect Start Although I had watched anglers catching salmon on this water for as long as I could remember, my main interest in fly casting and indeed my working life in salmon fishing, began when I was nineteen. I started working on the River Tweed as a ghillie in 1988 on one of the river’s best known beats called Makerstoun. The Makerstoun beat is
famous for giving the fishing world one of its most prized flies - the Jock Scott. The fly was invented in the 1850’s the beat’s ghillie and namesake, Jock Scott. The fly was tied for the laird of Makerstoun, Lord John Scott, who used the fly to great effect on some of the best known Norwegian salmon rivers of the day. Classed as middle Tweed, this wonderfully photogenic stretch of water was the perfect environment to learn not only about salmon fishing, but equally important the various forms of fly casting. With the river enjoying a ten month season, Makerstoun, like all other Tweed beats, enjoys a large throughput of salmon anglers of mixed casting ability during the course of the season. One of the most enjoyable aspects of my years as a ghillie was helping people develop their casting skills. Whether it was from a boat or waist deep in the river, improving the angler’s ability to cover the water would directly result in a better chance of hooking salmon. This frequent scenario developed a desire to better understand casting mechanics and to undertake a recognised casting qualification to improve the services I could offer my guest. The Next Step I wanted to make sure I was teaching correct techniques and sat and passed the single and double-hand exams of the Association of Professional Game Angling Instructors (known today as the Association of Advanced Professional Game Angling Instructors A.A.P.G.A.I). It was in this environment of such great casters
loop magazine #01.2009
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! NEWS
new opti balance reel seat Introduction David Moore is a fly fishing Instructor in the UK David is an associate member of AAPGAI in the UK he has fished extensively in Norway for the last ten years for salmon on various named rivers, David has been fishing from the age of eight, and He has recently joined Loop as part of the design team and has designed the Opti Balance reel seat. He is currently working on various rod concepts and says there is more to come to add to the range in the future. Concept The original concept for the reel seat was to be able to balance the reel to the rod correctly without having to add weight to the reel or buy a specific reel to match the rod just purchased. It was designed to reduce fatigue to the angler when fishing especially when the cast has been carried out and the line is swinging around the pool. The balanced outfit allows the angler to hold the rod more comfortably and loosely reducing any pressure to the lower part of the back and concentrate on the fishing.
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loop magazine #01.2009
David Moore, the designer of Opti Balance reel seat.
The new range of Opti Balance Double Handed Fly Rod the only salmon rod you can truly balance. Advantages of the new Opti balance reel seat 1. Reduced fatigue to angler 2. Correctly balanced rod 3. More consistent when casting due to the correct balanced outfit 4. Multiple reel application reels of different weights and sizes 5. Being able to alter the rod’s action to suit the individuals preference
eoin fairgrieve and well-known instructors that I learned a huge amount about various techniques, different casts and very importantly, different styles within individual casters. Although the basic laws of casting were definitive, it was very clear to see within the top flight of British fly casting, there was a unique styles specific to individuals. Such was my interest in fly casting and in particular modern speycasting, that in 2000 I decided to leave Makerstoun to set up a full time teaching and education business. Having enjoyed many great years on the water and been fortunate enough to lift the net under good number of Atlantic salmon for both my guests and for myself, I wanted a new challenge of setting up a teaching and education centre for fly fishing.
A happy Eoin on the riverbank of River Tweed.
Introduction to Loop I had meet Loop Tackle Design’s managing Director Christer Sjöberg a few years earlier at the annual CLA British Gamefair when I was competing in the inaugural Musto International Speycasting Competition. I, like many people, was instantly drawn to his enthusiasm and passion not only for fly fishing, but for life! Christer is like a tornado of positive energy and once he heard about my plans for the teaching centre, offered full support and some very good advice. With my background in speycasting, he also asked if I would become involved in Loop’s product development team to help design products for the company’s expanding double-handed market. In 2004 I set up the Eoin Fairgrieve Centre of Excellence and to date we’ve had an amazing journey. The teaching centre has its own private salmon beat on the River Teviot and Education Centre with classrooms and a stocked trout lake. Many Loop products have been tried and tested at our facility before launch on the market including Loop’s amazing new Opti Power Spey rods launched this year. The Opti Power rod range optimises next-generation Loop fly rods. The blank action is user-friendly for the broadest range of casting abilities, but with a good solid backbone to achieve distance as and when required. The rods are also light and extremely responsive to the various disciplines of modern double-handed fly fishing. The teaching centre also operates an educational program for schools in the Scottish Borders and Loop Tackle Design has helped to supported over 4000 children to learn all aspect about fly fishing. As well as learning the skills of angling, under the banner of fly fishing the children learn a range of education subjects including entomology, geography, history and even the economic impact angling has on the local economy. Without
exception, the first rod the children ever cast at our program is a fly rod donated by Loop Tackle Design – a clear indication of the commitment of the company to contribute to the sustainability of fly fishing for the future. entomology
Into the Future As for the casting, after twenty years of casting, fishing and teaching with double-handed fly rods, I’m still very much a student of the art. Speycasting has evolved so much with the development of different casting styles and disciplines and equally important, huge improvements in rod and line design. Doublehanded casting now embraces traditional and modern speycasting techniques with short headed, mid-headed and long-headed spey lines as well as the Scandanivian underhand technique invented by Loop’s Göran Anderson. The most recent casting technique enjoying popularity is the Skagit technique used with such great effect by steelheaders and salmon anglers on the Pacific West Coast of America. As an instructor, it’s very important to keep up to date with such positive developments within the sport to offer my customers the best instructional experience I can offer. As a member of Loop’s product development team which includes such talented casters like Trond and Knut Syrstad, Thomas Berggren, and Klaus Frimor, it also contributes to Loop designing and developing the best possible tackle our customer requires to maximise their time and enjoyment on the water. My own approach to casting is based on being able to control the movements of the rod and line during the casting cycle allowing for energy efficient delivery of the fly across the stream. There is, off course, nothing new in that, but it doesn’t always have to follow the conventional. Depending on the wind direction, line density and weight of fly I’m looking for different way to form the energy –filled loop of line known universally as the ‘D’ loop or ‘V’ loop. This is as much for the enjoyment aspect as the practical aspect of fishing, but always with the view of presenting the fly across the river in as energy efficient manner as possible. For me and many others in the fishing world, casting is simply not only a means to get the fly out across the stream to hook a fish, fly casting is as much a part of fly fishing as feeling life at the end of a fly line. Happy Fishing! q
Contact details:
...as an instructor, it’s very important to keep up to date with such positive developments within the sport.
Eoin Fairgrieve’s Centre of Excellence ------------------Tel: 01573 226700 Mob: 0771 5977060 E-mail: eoin@centre-of-excellence.co.uk Web: www.centre-of-excellence.co.uk
loop magazine #01.2009
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get a better grip. Field-tested in Cuba and Florida, the 9’0�- 3pcs Opti Salt series featuring the new hexagonal X-Grip (patent pend) has the strength, the response and the backbone to master wind and the toughest gamefish around. The Opti Salt is available in three models for line #8, #10 and #12.
PRO TESTIMONIAL ! .2 ', * , ( !)1-, -32 2&# ,#5 &#6 %-, * 6 %0'. & ,"*# ÂŽ2DA JAS *KKL -LPE 1=HP 6 %NEL BHU NK@O =NA PDA BENOP PNQA EJJKR=PEKJ EJ NK@ @AOECJ OEJ?A PDA =@RAJP KB CN=LDEPA 2DA OHECDPHU H=NCAN DAT=CKJ=H CNEL CERAO QJ>AHEAR=>HA ?KJPNKH 2DA OKBP NKQJ@A@ A@CAO =NA ?KIBKNP=>HA =J@ PDA KRAN=HH ABBA?P EO PNAIAJ@KQOHU =@R=JP=CAKQO SDAJ BECDPEJC H=NCA BEOD =J@ KN SDAJ B=?PKNO OQ?D =O OSA=P =J@ OQJO?NAAJ =NA EJRKHRA@ 2DAOA NK@O SEHH >A =R=EH=>HA OKKJ Â? KLAJ UKQN IEJ@ =J@ PNU KJA ÂŽ 1 *25 2#0 .0- *#6 & '"#0 -32 2&# *--. 1 *25 2#0 !-,!#.2 ÂŽ,KP KJHU PDA JAS QJEMQA 6 %NEL NK@O >QP PDA PKP=HHU I=P?DEJC JAS ODKNP DA=@ HEJAO EJ ?KI>EJ=PEKJ SEPD PDA -LPE NAAHO PDA L=?G=CA EO PDA >AOP ' D=RA ARAN PNEA@ 1K A=OU $=JP=OPE? SAHH @KJA Â?
loop fly tackle & adventures | www.looptackle.se
Swims with sails... n In January Capt. Rick Murphy hosted a fly fishing trip for sailfish to Casa Vieja Lodge in Guatemala. A few days into the trip Steve Dooley had Rick’s brand new Loop 12 wt and Opti Big reel jerked out of his hand, into the water, never to be seen again. Steve is a trout fisherman who endured a merciless ribbing that evening from Capt. Rick and the rest of the group, most of which centered around the difference between brown trout and sailfish. The next day Steve, Rick, Larry Zarrella and I were fishing on the Buddy Boy with Capt. Chris Sheeder. Larry was using Murphy’s backup loop “Opti Big” when he hooked his first sail of the day. After several spectacular jumps it ran off a hundred yards and settled down. Larry was joking with the rest of us when the sail put on a sudden burst and jerked the rod out of his hand and into the water...
Still fun!?
...Hesitating for only a second Larry leapt into the water after the rod; hat, glasses and crocs not withstanding. Moments later Larry surfaced only to find that he was not able to get back to the boat because the sailfish was pulling him in the opposite direction. He tried to fight the sailfish with the rod only to discover that it’s not an easy thing to do without a boat under you. The sail calmly pulled him away from the boat and periodically under the water. Capt. Sheeder carefully backed down to where Larry could hand the rod to Murphy while we hauled him back into the boat. Once back on deck he proceeded to land and release the sail before even trying to dry off. Even after spending several minutes under water, the loop Opti Big drag performed perfectly but this was sure a hard way to land a fish!
– F_ _ck..blubb...I like trout...
Please do not try this at home!
Showing off the beautiful sail.
Photo: Pat Ford
– Hey Guys...?
loop magazine #01.2009
29
the profile Orri Vigfusson (66), businessman from Iceland. He loves the Atlantic salmon and travels the world over in order to save them. n His method is to buy out fishing quotas for the Atlantic salmon from participating countries in the North Atlantic basin. ”I have a passion for the Salmon, they are spectacular creatures.” says Vigfusson. The North Atlantic Salmon Fund (NASF) is Vigfusson’s brainchild. In September the NASF will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Meanwhile, the campaign continues around the North Atlantic over 150 travel days per year. Millions of dollars have been raised and over the last 15 years open sea harvest of the Atlantic salmon has been reduced by approximately 75 percent. The association members have done much for the salmon, but there is much left to do.
Business Practices Coming from a family in the fishing industry, it was an obvious course of action to pursue buying out quotas. He began with the Faeroe Islands, Greenland and his homeland, Iceland. Using the same methodology he raised the funds to buy out the quotas from Canada, USA, Germany, France, Denmark and Great Britain. An enormous number of salmon make their way to Norwegian spawning rivers every year and Orri sees Norway as the current key. Current salmon harvest practices in Norwegian fjords are unsustainable and prevent a sufficient number of salmon from reaching the spawning grounds each year. Norwegians are stubborn, but so is Vigfusson! “The hardest work now is Norway.” Vigfusson also battles the Russian government and the hope is to gain their help in the fight with the Norwegian authorities. ”The Norwegians are tough.” he sighs in his office in Reykjavik. Over the last few years the NASF has raised 100 million Norwegian crowns for buying open sea quotas. Because of this, five million salmon have avoided capture to return to Norwegian rivers. It’s about 20 crowns per fish (4 USD) and is cheap! The NASF philosophy is that commercial fishing interests should receive reasonable compensation for participation. ”The Norwegians must understand however, that the returning salmon are not their property!”
he exclaims. The Norwegian authorities have been obstructing his efforts and instead of working with him have determined to use the resource as they see fit. They want low or no restrictions. ”But I’m also tough!” he summarizes… controversial as well. Salmon and Alcohol At the end of the 1960s he returned to Iceland from studying at the London School of Economics. He went his own way, started several businesses and began a cooperative of producers of Icelandic goods. He opened a tourist shop at the Keflavik International airport and after five years sold the operation to the Icelandic government. In 1985 he began producing ”Icy Vodka” and upset the government monopoly on alcohol and its production. Aside from business, Orri has always been a keen and avid sport fisherman. He’s fished more than most and over the last few years more and more for trout and char than for salmon... Much Fishing, More Travel Orri has fished salmon rivers all along the North Atlantic basin and most of Iceland’s best rivers. This is why he busies himself buying up fishing rights and saving the salmon. He understands the situation. He’s fished in Scotland, Ireland, Russia, and of course Norway. July and August are reserved for secret rivers. He finds time for his family also; his wife as well as daughters and sons are all keen anglers. “My sons live from the sport fishing industry and have become guides in Iceland.” Orri smiles as he ties on a fly with the ’riffling hitch” at a small river a bit north of Reykjavik called Laxa i Kjos. He admits to fishing 70-80 days each year and the family knows how he’s arranged the days to come... Salmon and Eating Salmon ”I have always fought the bureaucracy. Tax-free sales and alcohol for example… I have engaged in the fight for sensible rights in Iceland, had interest
“Millions of dollars have been raised and over the last 15 years open sea harvest of the Atlantic salmon has been reduced by approximately 75 percent.”
in the banks and not the least the salmon.” Home in Reykjavik there’s no doubt that an avid angler lives here. Framed salmon flies, an office full of rods, lines, reels, and books about salmon and salmon fishing surround him. A place of honor displays a painting of his favorite pool in Laxa i Adaldalur by Iceland’s most famous artist, Hringur. A sculpture of a mating pair of salmon with an inscription from the Prince of Wales is also on display and offers proof of the recognition and acclaim he’s received internationally. In 2007 he received the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for his work. He’s been commended by the Faeroese commercial fishing industry as the salmon’s top advocate and he’s become something of a celebrity at home in Iceland. Trøndelag - Central Norway ”What we’ve accomplished on the open sea, so shall we also achieve in the Fjords”. The fishing rights must be paid for. The majority of this type of fishing occurs in Norway and the funds used to dissuade it will come from further international fundraising efforts and from philanthropy. Vigfusson has used his own money for this purpose on many occasions. The NASF shares an office with Orri’s business interests such as alcohol and investments. Most of his time nowadays is devoted to the salmon. ”This is an ongoing battle and I shall win it! The goal is that as many salmon as possible reach the spawning grounds. The NASF respects the rights of commercial fishing interests and endeavors to properly compensate them to stop the harvest.” The NASF is determined to accomplish its goals in Norway. It begins here on the central coast and will help to complete the entire project that was begun 20 years ago. ”I will not stop until I have the chance to prove the same principles that have worked in other countries and in other places around the North Atlantic basin.” Catch and Release... Of course quota buyout has been the main factor for Orri Vigfusson, but he has also been a major champion of catch and release. ”If the goal is that salmon should have the chance to reach the spawning grounds, those met by sport anglers must also get through. If we truly want to achieve the goals set, we can’t continue molest the salmon in rivers in good conscience. I personally don’t eat salmon.” The problem is larger than one might think. Of the approximately 330,000 salmon caught by rod each year around the world about one third are released. In continental Scandinavia the percentage is much lower... q
_text & photo yngve ask
Orri with famous magazine ad.
30
loop magazine #01.2009
,OOP4ACKLE
pursuit of perfection
PHOTO YNGVE ASK/ SCANOUT.COM
mini-catalog 2009
p. 2-3 ..... fly reels p. 4-7 ..... fly rods p. 8-9 ..... fly lines p. 10 ...... clothing p. 10 ...... contact
loop fly reels
-QN
NAAHO D=RA =HS=UO >AAJ HA=@EJC PDA S=U 2DAU OPEHH @K $KN IKNA PD=J PSAJPU UA=NO SA D=RA >AAJ LNK@Q? EJC H=NCA =N>KN NAAHO 5EPD PDA JAS -LPE $HU 0AAH SAÂ’RA AJPANA@ = JAS AN= 2DEO NAAH D=O =J ARAJ H=NCAN =N>KN =J@ = J=NNKSAN QJEMQAHU 4 OD=LA@ OLKKH 2DEO IA=JO = B=OPAN NAPNEARA =J@ HAOO HEJA IAIKNU 5DAJ UKQ NAPNEARA PDA HEJA EP =QPKI=PE?=HHU B=HHO EJPK LH=?A SEPD RANU HEPPHA DAHL BNKI UKQN BEJCANO -B ?KQNOA PDA -LPE NAAH D=O KQN OEHGU OIKKPD =J@ LKSANBQH .KSAN +=PNET @N=C OUOPAI 2DA @N=C OUOPAI SDE?D EO PKP=HHU S=PANLNKKB O=HPS=PAN NAOEOP=JP =J@ BA=PQNAO PDA OIKKPDAOP =R=EH=>HA OP=NP QL EO =HOK BKQJ@ EJ PDA QLCN=@A@ #RKPA? % =J@ PDA !H=OOE? NAAHO 5AH?KIA PK PDA BQPQNA 'P >ACEJO DANA
classic Beneath the stunning looks of the new Classic fly reel is the ultra-modern Power Matrix Drag System. This monstrous braking system will subdue the strongest of fish in the harshest conditions. The completely waterproof drag system benefits from a pronounced ’click’ that signals “fish on� through your ears into your every vein. Fishing for all senses. The Classic is completely corrosion resistant and benefits from a new ergonomic handle design with integrated leader retainer on the counterbalance. Available in either left or right-hand wind, each reel is individually numbered and presented in a handcrafted leather case. With its old world classic looks and ultra-modern braking power, you will get the best of both worlds. We call it tradition with an attitude.
opti
“OPTi Runner Best Innovation� FiskeFeber Magazine No. 1 2009
OPTi reels come in sizes from Creek to Big. Each model is optimized for specific fishing applications. Creek and DryFly, with a silky-smooth drag that handles the thinnest leader. The Runner, which is built on the same principles as its big brother Speedrunner, is the obvious choice for light double-hand rods or slightly heavier single-hand rods. Speedrunner features an inset handle and extra diameter for speedsters. Megaloop comes with dual braking plates and a super sturdy construction for tackling really big fish. The king of the hill is the OPTi Big. With an absolutely huge drag system it is designed to stop anything. The OPTi reel will be your best and most beautiful friend for life.
Designed in Sweden and built with specifically designed components crafted in Sweden.
Housing and spool machined from one piece aircraft aluminum.
Designed in Sweden and built with specifically designed components crafted in Sweden.
Waterproof and salt tolerant.
Housing and spool machined from one piece aircraft aluminium.
Components in stainless steel and anodised aluminium.
Components in stainless steel and anodised aluminium.
All screws secured with Loc-Tite.
Waterproof and salt tolerant.
Newly developed Power Matrix Drag System. Axial function employing dual plates. New, unique braking material from Carbon Matrix precision machined to a tolerance of Âą 0,02 mm. Extreme temperature and pressure tolerant.
Power Matrix Drag System. Axial function employing dual plates. New, unique braking material from Carbon Matrix precision machined to a tolerance of Âą 0,02 mm. Extreme temperature and pressure tolerant.
Easy-grip progressive brake knob.
Simple, quick spool-change.
Weighted overrun prevention.
Easy-grip progressive brake knob.
Classic click independent of braking system.
V-shaped spool.
Precisely counterbalanced.
Precisely counterbalanced.
MODEL
CAPACITY yd/lb
DIA mm
WIDTH mm
WEIGHT g
VOLUME cm3
54
MODEL
CAPACITY yd/lb
DIA mm
WIDTH mm
WEIGHT g
VOLUME cm
CREEK
WF3+140/20
85
20
120
46
WF5+130/20
83
50
226
67
DRYFLY
WF5+190/20
102
20
135
79
58
WF7+250/20
90
50
240
101
RUNNER
WF7+150/30
115
25
205
109
3
79
WF9F+250/20
95
60
338
123
SPEEDRUNNER
WF8+185/30
131
25
216
123
811
WF10F+220/30
100
65
358
155
MEGALOOP
WF12 + 230/50
131
32
257
208
1013
WF12F+350/30
105
65
385
219
BIG
WF12 + 500 /50
126
38
427
283
loop catalog/ p. 2
loop fly reels
multi We have always been known for designing the highest quality fly reels on the market. So when we set out to create a series of “diecast” reels, we knew they had to be built to the same standards as our other great reels. In other words, they needed to be completely waterproof and offer the same Power Matrix Drag System that is incorporated in our other machined reels. The inter-workings of the Multi reels are of the highest standards, and when our first prototypes started arriving, we knew we had accomplished our goal. The Loop Multi fly reels will last a life time, and will be offered in a price range that will allow anglers of all walks of life to own a fly reel that we feel proud enough to put the Loop name on.
As with our Opti series of reels, the handle is positioned more towards the center of the spool, which allows faster line retrieve and more room when hand palming is desired.
The counter balance incorporates a leader holder.
The drag knob has been reset, so it does not catch your fly line while making a cast.
Spool designed with a V-shape for optimal fly line spooling.
Conical shaped rubber handle that allows fly line to easily slip off and not get tangled in.
Simple, quick spool-change.
Workhorse design that will not let you down in the heat of the battle, regardless of your catch.
Designed in Sweden and built with specifically designed components crafted in Sweden.
Outgoing click.
evotec g4
NEW DESIGN!
This upgraded powerhouse of a reel contains the strongest and smoothest braking system that you will ever likely get your hands on. The G4 is also equipped with an ergonomically designed, non-friction winding handle, which prevents the fly line from getting entangled on it. The counter-weight features an o-ring for attaching the tippet when not fishing. This reel is your best bet when the fish of a lifetime takes your fly. That we guarantee.
Designed in Sweden and built with specifically designed components crafted in Sweden.
LINE
VOLUME cm3
DIA mm
WIDTH mm
WEIGHT g
Housing and spool machined from one piece aircraft aluminium.
MULTI 3/6
WF3-6
79
80
32
180
Components in stainless steel and anodised aluminium.
MULTI 6/9
WF6-9
113
98
39
260
Waterproof and salt tolerant.
MULTI 9/12
WF9-12
194
113
39
295
Power Matrix Drag System. Axial function employing dual plates. New, unique braking material from Carbon Matrix precision machined to a tolerance of ± 0,02 mm. Extreme temperature and pressure tolerant.
Simple, quick spool-change.
Easy-grip progressive brake knob.
Weighted overrun prevention.
Outgoing click (not available on FW).
Precisely counterbalanced.
MODEL
evotec clw & clwc Evotec CLW is totally made from composite, except the reel foot that is in aluminium. This reel is simply made for tough conditions. Just as its big brother, Evotec G3, the CLW has a counter-weight for better balance and smoother function as the fish runs. Given price, form, and the silky-smooth brake, this reel is a clear winner. Speaking of clear, the CLW is also available in a transparent version, the CLWC. The material in this is flexible and almost unbreakable. These reels are indestructible and the function is ordinary Loop – absolutely remarkable! And one more thing, be tough on them, they love it. MODEL
LINE
MODEL
LINE
CLW 2six
#2-6
CLWC 2six
#2-6
CLW 5eight
#5-8
CLWC 5eight
#5-8
CLW 8twelve
#8-12
-
-
MODEL
CAPACITY yd/lb
DIA mm
WIDTH mm
WEIGHT g
VOLUME cm3
FW 3/5
WF4+170/20
87
38
138
67
FW 4/6
WF5+200/20
87
38
140
78
FW 5/7
WF6+230/20
87
38
140
84
LW 5/8 NEW MODEL!
WF6+230/20
97
47
180
90
LW 6/8
WF7+250/20
97
47
225
112
LW 7/9
WF8+250/20
97
47
225
137
HD 8/10
WF9+280/20
111
47
247
153
HD 9/13
WF11+350/20
111
47
247
193
loop fly tackle & adventures I www.looptackle.se loop catalog/ p. 3
loop fly rods
O
= IK@ANJ BHU BEODAN UKQ LNK>=>HU LH=?A DECD @AI=J@O KJ UKQN AMQELIAJP $KN QO PDEO EO K>REKQO FQOP =O K>REKQO =O *KKL NK@O ODKQH@ >A KB PDA DECDAOP OP=J@=N@ 5A SKQH@ JARAN LQP KQN >N=J@ KJ NA=@U I=@A >H=JGO 5A I=GA KQN KSJ NK@O SEPD LNE@A =J@ SEPD = GJKSHA@CA PD=P ?KIAO BNKI HKJC UA=NO KB ATLANEAJ?A EJ BHU BEODEJC -QN JAS BHU NK@ OANEAO =NA =HH I=@A SEPD PDA H=PAOP PA?DJKHKCE?=H =@R=J?AIAJPO 2DAU =NA >QEHP PK H=OP =J@ PDAEN =?PEKJO SEHH OQNLNEOA UKQ +KOP EILKNP=JPHU PDAU =NA BEODEJC PKKHO SEPD = BAAHEJC UKQ SEHH HKRA JK I=PPAN SD=P PULA KB BHU BEODEJC UKQ LNABAN #=?D OANEAO D=O EPO KSJ OLA?E=H MQ=HEPEAO 2DANA EO = NK@ BKN ARANU BHUBEODAN =J@ ARANU OEPQ=PEKJ 5AH?KIA PK PDA SKNH@ KB *KKL BHU NK@O LATE NEWS!
-.2E 15'2!& 0-" See magazine page 4.
opti salt x-grip
NEW!
Field-tested in Cuba and Florida, the new Opti Salt series, featuring the hexagonal X-Grip (patent pend), has the strength, the response and the backbone to master wind and the toughest gamefish around. MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
890-3
9'0"
#8
17-21g
3
K
1090-3
9'0"
#10
22-27g
3
K
1290-3
9'0"
#12
32-36g
3
L
opti power spey After a year of testing sample after sample we are finally pleased to introduce these two brand new rods. The rods will work equally well with short heads (typical for Underhand and Skagit casting) or longer spey lines. The tip recovery is extremely precise and the butt power never gives up. These models feature our new, patented Balanced reel seat which is 50% longer than traditional reel seats and allows the angler to choose position of the reel, balancing the rod against the weight of the line and the casting technique.
loop catalog/ p. 4
NEW!
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
9140-5
14'0"
#9-10
32-39g
5
Balanced Reel Seat
10150-5
15'0"
#10-11
36-43g
5
Balanced Reel Seat
loop fly rods
opti series OPTi Peak The Opti Peak was designed cast a light line, yet handle big fish. If you are looking for a rod to cast bombers or big dry flies for Salmon or large trout, the Opti Peak was built for you.
OPTi Coast The Opti Coast was designed to handle the windy conditions found on the coast. With a strong, crisp and quick action the rod will cut through the wind and allow you to reach those hard to get to rips. Looking for tight loops in the wind? Then the Opti Coast is the rod for you. New for 2009 is the 9'3" #6. MODEL
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
3110-4
11'0"
#3
6-9g
4
C
4110-4
11'0"
#4
8-11g
4
C
OPTi Stream On the Opti Stream we have prioritised mobility. These rods have the flexibility to cope with all casting elements. Using the underhand-cast you can place the line where you want it without any delay. The Opti Stream-rods handles the situation when you need an accurate presentation. HANDLE
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
693-4 NEW!
9'3"
#6
12-16g
4
HANDLE
K
796-4
9'6"
#7
14-18g
4
D
OPTI Stillwater The Stillwater rods are casting machines with a range that will send shivers down your spine. These rods are designed for lakes, reservoirs and saltwater. On stillwaters you do not need the same mobility as you do on a stream. That is why the Stillwater series has a stiffer and more vigorous action. You can then better control the size and speed of your line loop. Opti Stillwater is action and feeling in harmony.
OPTi Power As the traveling angler knows size does matter, so we have designed and built the five-piece Opti Powerrod for the discriminating world traveler. Whether you are headed to the Florida Keys in search of the Silver King, or slipping into a bush plane in search of giant trout, these five-piece rods will fit right in to your carryon luggage. We did not compromise on the quality of these rods and you will find the deep, robust action an absolute pleasure to cast for hours on end. After all we didn’t build these great rods to sit in the corner of your fly tying room. MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
790-5
9'0"
#7
14-18g
5
D
890-5
9'0"
#8
17-21g
5
E
1090-5
9'0"
#10
22-27g
5
E
1290-5
9’0"
#12
32-36g
5
E
OPTi Creek The Opti Creek series has been optimised for sensitive fishing on small water. If you are looking for the ultimate rod for small technical water, then get Optimised with the Opti Creek series. Because on these waters there are no second chances.
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
490-4
9'0"
#4
8-10g
4
B
590-4
9'0"
#5
10-12g
4
B
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
693-4
9'3"
#6
12-15g
4
B
593-4
9'3"
#5
10-13g
4
B
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
796-4
9'6"
#7
14-17g
4
D
696-4
9'6"
#6
12-16g
4
C
282-3
8'2"
#2
4-5g
3
A
896-4
9'6"
#8
17-20g
4
D
7100-4
10'0"
#7
14-18g
4
D
388-4
8'8"
#3
6-7g
4
A
View our complete range of tackle & accessories:
SSS HKKLP=?GHA OA
opti double-hand Perfecting the underhand cast requires the right back-cast and being able to anchor the line and leader in order to build up energy in your rod. Our new Opti double-hand rods have been designed to allow anglers the most consistent, forgiving and comfortable underhand casting stroke possible. Our previous top-series, Grey Line, was described as “rods that follow your mind�. Our new Opti-rods do the thinking for you.
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
8124-4
12'4"
#8-9
29-35g
4
H
9132-4
13'2"
#9-10
32-39g
4
H
10150-4
15'0"
#10-11
36-43g
4
I
11140-4
14'0"
#11-12
43-50g
4
I
11160-4
16'0"
#11-12
43-50g
4
I
11170-4
17'0"
#11-12
44-52g
4
I
loop catalog/ p. 5
loop fly rods
multi With a more flexible material and a new construction that gives the rod a deep, powerful action with a short recovery stroke. The Multi series was designed using new graphite technology that creates an extremely light, yet amazingly strong fly rod. The action gives you that little extra time to coordinate the cast. Multi is the rod for you who want to tighten your loops and improve your performance when you present your fly. We have spent years developing this new technology, but what it means to you is simple, “Longer casts, more accuracy and much less effort then ever before”. If you don’t believe us try one and you will see and feel the difference”. MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
280-3
8'0"
#2
4-5g
3
A
MODEL
390-4
9'0"
#3
6-7g
4
A
DOUBLE-HAND
480-4
8'0"
#4
8-10g
4
B
7120-4
12'0"
B
8120-4 NEW!
12'0" 13'0"
SINGLE-HAND
490-4
9'0"
#4
8-10g
4
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
#7-8
23-26g
4
H
#8-9
28-34g
4
H
#8-9
28-34g
4
H
570-4
7'0"
#5
10-12g
4
B
8130-4
586-4
8'6"
#5
10-12g
4
B
9140-4
14'0"
#9-10
31-38g
4
I
590-4
9'0"
#5
10-12g
4
B
10130-4
13'0"
#10-11
38-44g
4
I
696-4
9'6"
#6
12-15g
4
C
10150-4
15'0"
#10-11
36-41g
4
I
796-4
9'6"
#7
14-17g
4
D
896-4
9'6"
#8
17-20g
4
D
8100-3 NEW!
10'0"
#8
17-20g
3
D
multi pwr
NEW!
The new powerful Multi PWR 3-section single-hand rods are improved versions of some of the best rods ever built in the industry – the Loop Grey Line series. We have even added some extra horse power into them by using our latest fiber technology. MODEL
590-3 NEW!
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
9'0"
#5
10-12g
3
B
690-3 NEW!
9'0"
#6
12-15g
3
B
790-3 NEW!
9'0"
#7
14-17g
3
D
796-3 NEW!
9'6"
#7
14-17g
3
D
8100-3 NEW!
10'0"
#8
17-20g
3
D
loop catalog/ p. 6
lts x1 The LTS X1 Series features a deep, fast action with a short stroke length, which ensures high line speed, tight loops and long casts. Easy to cast and with loads of power reserves for the advanced caster makes the LTS X1 rods very versatile.
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
PCS
HANDLE
6100-3
10'0"
#6
3
D
7100-3
10'0"
#7
3
D
SINGLE-HAND
DOUBLE-HAND 8126-4
12'6"
#8-9
4
H
9136-4
13'6"
#9-10
4
I
10146-4
14'6"
#10-11
4
I
11156-4
15'6"
#11-12
4
I
loop fly rods
Adventure G3 Single & Double-Hand The rod series to grow together with. All our Adventure G3-rods are very easy to use and have an effective medium-action that manages all types of casts. The action rhymes well with our other series. That makes it easy for you to move on when you wish to upgrade your flyfishing. Adventure G3-rods are good value for money. Everything from blank to cork-handle is of the highest Loop-standard. MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
SINGLE-HAND
yellow line
NEW IMPROVED SERIES!
Back by overwhelming popular demand! So here they are, again; slightly modified, better, more powerful, stronger and nicer looking than ever. By using the new scrims and resin we’ve managed to increase strength and power without changing the famous deeper action.
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
SINGLE-HAND 382-3 NEW!
8'2"
#3
6-7g
3
A
488-3 NEW!
8'8"
#4
8-10g
3
B
590-3 NEW!
9'0"
#5
10-12g
3
B
DOUBLE-HAND
490-3
9'0"
#4
8-10g
3
B
8124-4 NEW!
12'4"
#8-9
29-35g
4
H
590-3
9'0"
#5
10-12g
3
B
9132-4 NEW!
13'2"
#9-10
32-39g
4
H
690-3
9'0"
#6
12-15g
3
B
796-3
9'6"
#7
14-17g
3
D
7100-3
10'0"
#7
14-17g
3
D
DOUBLE-HAND 9132-4
13'2"
#9-10
31-36g
4
H
10150-4
15'0"
#10-11
36-41g
4
I
Classic Spey Double-Hand Designed by World Team Speycasting Champion, Eoin Faigrieve the new Classic Spey rods combines stunning good looks with superior casting performance. Finished in a deep translucent olive color, this range of rods are designed for the most demanding modern and traditional Speycasting techniques. Each rod benefits from a silky-smooth progressive action with fast tip recovery to control tight casting loops in all conditions. With their extended handle design and fast progressive action, these rods are destined to become true ’Classics’. MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
PCS
HANDLE
9130-4
13'0"
#9-10
4
H
9140-4
14'0"
#9-10
4
I
10150-4
15'0"
#10-11
4
I
GĂśran Andersson Rod Designer
MODEL
LENGTH
MODEL
LENGTH
LINE
PCS
HANDLE
890-3
9'0"
#8
3
F
View our complete range of tackle & accessories:
SSS HKKLP=?GHA OA
gÜran andersson signature series "For many years I’ve been asked to make rods under my signature and finally these are available after long and arduous designing, testing, redesigning and retesting. They are manufactured in the same fibre and with the same technology as the Grey Line Series, but with a character all their own. These rods have a bit deeper action that works through the entire grip when fully loaded, but also have a short recovery that allows for a quick and early stop. They are easy-to-cast and meant for all flyfishers, but will at the same time give the technically competent caster the ability to push the envelope and achieve more than any other rods available. I hope you will experience the same enjoyment and satisfaction from the Signature Series.�
Pike Booster Big Fly With a deep progressive action the Pike Booster delivers big flies as easy as nothing. A handle in a cork/rubber mix gives you a steady grip and with a fighting handle in black foam we ensure that you’ll come out on top. Style and attitude included.
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
H
DOUBLE-HAND
6120-4
12'0"
#6-7
22-24g
4
8140-4
14'0"
#8-9
27-30g
4
I
MODEL
9116-4
11'6"
#9-10
31-34g
4
G
SINGLE-HAND
9126-4
12'6"
#9-10
32-36g
4
H
10146-4
14'6�
#10-11
37-41g
4
I
LENGTH
LINE
WEIGHT LINE
PCS
HANDLE
494-4
9'4"
#4
8-10g
4
B
7100-4
10'0"
#7
14-17g
4
D
loop catalog/ p. 7
loop fly lines
2DA
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opti wf OPTi Creek float The Opti Creek line could be deemed the nemesis of vigilant fish. The line is a development of the Opti Stream-line and has a somewhat shorter head for better feeling and presentation. You get the advantage over the fish. Not the other way around. For running water, this is the line you need. Float WF2-WF4 . Length: 15m
OPTi Stream float Opti Stream is precisely as the name indicates: for flowing water. The new taper is designed for extreme ease in both underhand and overhand casting. Easy to pickup and shoot overhand and yet perfectly balanced for tight, underhand casts. Head length varies between 7,1-9,1m depending upon line class. Float WF2-WF9. Length: 27m OPTi Stillwater float This line is designed for lake fishing. The new taper casts loong and is designed to set the fly down with precision at enormous distance. Head length varies from 9,1-10,4 m depending upon line class. Float WF3-WF9. Length: 30m
opti salt NEW! Short, blunt heads and a superslick surface combined with a stiff core makes these lines easy to load and comfortable to cast. Bone Float WF 8+ Permit Float/ Clear Slow Intermediate WF 10+ Tarpon Float WF 12+ Tarpon Float/ Clear Slow Intermediate WF 12+ Length: 27m
loop catalog/ p. 8
multi wf multi long distance NEW! Runningline
A
B
C
D
E
The Hi-Dense core makes the MULTi line perfect for a Long Belly line. With two meters added on head and a longer back-taper we think we have created an new Loop classic. This will be one of your best selling ever. Float WF4-WF9. Length: 30m
multi x-slow NEW! Runningline
A
B
C
D
E
This one will be a winner on the coast and for speeding up flies in rivers. The extra slow intermediate will just hang just below the surface and will not make any “traces�. It will hang deep enough in streams so as much water as possible at the highest speed will make it possible to fish the fly fast – perfect for salmon. Its Hi-Dense core will also handle bigger flies, like pike flies, easy. This is truly a Multi line, with multiple possibilities. X-slow Intermediate WF5-WF9. Length: 30m View our complete range of tackle & accessories:
SSS HKKLP=?GHA OA
MULTi Single-Hand and Double-Hand These lines handle just about everything. Whether it’s heavy-duty fly chucking on the coast or sneaky spring creek fishing, the Multi delivers. Furthermore, it is an unbeatable line for windy conditions. This is the line for brutal double hauling and for handling big heavy flies. The HiDensity Core ensures that the energy loss is minimal, making the line fly like a rocket through the wind. MULTi Single-Hand Float WF4-WF8. Float/ Clear Int. Head WF5-WF8 Float/ Sink III Tip WF5-WF8. Float/ Sink IV Head WF5-WF8 Length 27m MULTi Double-Hand Float WF8-9 - WF11-12. Float/ Clear Int. Head WF8-9 - WF11-12 Length 30m
loop fly lines
custom shooting heads
the Custom is the best choice if you want to customise your line and make your own loops.Therefore we have added 2,5 extra meters to the line. Other than that it is the same line as the Adapted, with the same possibilities for switching between level running line and spey tapered ones. As with the Adapted the philosophy is simple and efficient. Double-Hand Float #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Float/ Fast Intermediate #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Float/ Sink IV #8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Slow/ Fast Intermediate #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink I/ Sink II #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink II/ Sink III #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink II/ Sink IV #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink IV Deep Diver #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Low stretch core. Length: 13-15.3m Single-Hand Float #6, 7, 8, 9. Clear Intermediate #6, 7, 8, 9 Low stretch core. Length: 12m.
classic spey Designed by World Team Speycasting Champion Eoin Fairgrieve, the new range of Classic Spey Lines have been developed specifically to enhance and maximise all levels of casting ability from novice through to advanced speycasters. Incorporating Loop’s new OCR (Optimum Casting Range) taper design, these new lines allow seamless transfer of kinetic energy during the casting cycle, allowing greater water coverage and superior fly presentation when fish are taking close to the surface.Each Classic Spey floating line is designed and manufactured to unprecedented standards and benefits from cutting-edge braided core and line coating technology. The combination of these factors results in a Spey line, which not only greatly reduces friction on contact with the rod rings, but also with the Classic’s low stretch core, allows increased sensitivity for hooking fish. Float, Float/ Intermediate Head and Float/ Sink III Head WF9-10 WF11-12. Head length: 20.5m. Total length: 36m
Quattro Tip Spey Double-Hand Quattro Tip comes supplied with four interchangeable tips of various densities. The Quattro Tip Spey Line offers the discerning salmon angler the opportunity to optimise the presentation depth of the fly by quickly changing the 14ft attachable sinking tips depending on water depth, water temperature and fishing situation. Float, Clear Intermediate, Medium Sink Tip and Fast Sink Tip WF9/10 WF11/12. Head + Tip length: 15.5-16.6m. Total length: 36m
lts adapted pro
NEW!
This is the double hand line concept for the professional caster and fisherman. Made with efficient fishing in mind it comes with color coded loops and three different fronts in three densities. In addition the line singles itself out by having a long front taper with a perfectly matched belly that gives the line, regardless of sink grade, extra stability, forward drift and extreme distance. This is truly the line for those who want to fish effectively and really whish to reach all the fish. Low float belly. Low float, intermediate and sink III fronts #9-10, 10-11, 11-12 . Color coded loops. Low stretch core. Length: 12.4-14.25m
NOW WITH SPEY FRONTS AND COLORED LOOPS!
adapted double-hand To make the worlds most variable line system even more variable we have added longer line fronts called Spey Fronts. This will make it possible to make the head plus front approximately 1.5 meters longer. The different fronts and heads can be mixed through different AFTM-scales, to be suited exactly for the fishing situation or place. We will sell all parts separately, labeled with length, weight and density. There will also be a “big box” available, including three pieces of all heads, fronts and spey fronts. Float #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Slow/ Fast Intermediate #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink II/ Sink III #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 Sink IV/ Sink V #6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12 (Sink IV belly available from #9-10) Color coded loops. Low stretch core. Length: 9.7-11.7m
Adapted Single-Hand Looped, ready-to-go shooting heads with belly and interchangeable fronts. Float #6-7, 7-8, 8-9 Slow/ Fast Intermediate #6-7, 7-8, 8-9 Extra Super Fast Sink #6-7, 7-8, 8-9 Low stretch core. Length: 7.9-9.0m
booster twin front
NEW!
Big fly, big fish! Featuring a short front taper, superb weight distribution and a low-stretch core, the Booster Twin Front WF turns over ”biggies” with ease. The Booster comes with two interchangeable fronts: Low Float and Sink IV. With its integrated loops you’ll easily change front and leader. This for sure is a line for big nasties, be it fish or fly. Low Float with Low Float & Sink IV fronts WF8 Head length 9.1m. Total length: 27m
OPTi Running Line This floating running line is the correct and best choice for fishing with shooting heads. It provides the correct resistance for the best control. Low-Stretch core and integrated loop connector. Float 0.029”, 0.032”, 0.035”dia. Length: 30m OPTi Spey Running Line The Opti Spey Running Line is a pioneering new concept in running line development. Until now all running lines have been manufactured with a standard diameter. The Opti Spey Running Line has an integrated back taper, which connects to the shooting head to transform the line system from a standard underhand set-up to a short-head spey line. A flexible addition for any underhand angler, allowing the caster a choice of spey presentation techniques with a shooting head system. Low-Stretch core and integrated loop connector. Float #6-8, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12. Length: 30m
loop catalog/ p. 9
loop clothing & waders
-QN
BQJ?PEKJ=H ?HKPDEJC =J@ S=@ANO =NA @ARAHKLA@ >U BHU BEODANO BKN BHU BEODANO 5A GJKS SD=P BQJ?PEKJ =J@ NAHE=>EHEPU IA=JO AOE@AO PDEO SA =HOK PDEJG PD=P BEODEJC ?HKPDAO ODKQH@ HKKG CKK@ -QN AJPENA ?HKPDEJC ?KJ?ALP EO >QEHP KJ ?HARAN ?KI>EJ=PEKJO $NKI PDKQCD QJ@ANC=NIAJP PK SEJ@ =J@ S=PANLNKKB ODAHHO NA=PD=>HA S=@ANO PD=P GAAL UKQ @NU !HKPDAO BNKI *KKL =NA PDA NAOQHP KB KQN KSJ >N=EJOPKNIEJC OAOOEKJO =J@ PDKNKQCD PAOPO 2D=P EO SDU SA @=NA O=U 2DAU SKNG
1
2
1 Knitted Fleece Jacket Knitted outside and soft fleece on the inside. A cozy, functional and stylish jacket. Adjustable waist, fleece lined pockets and a welded chest pocket. Color: Brown Melange. Sizes: S - XXXL 2 Pinstripe 3-layer Jacket NEW! Every season we have an eye opener in limited edition. This years Pinstripe Jacket combines elegance with functionality. Better membrane, better fit, better outer material, simply put – lighter and better. And as said before it comes in a limited edition — grab one as fast as you can. Color: Pinstripe. Sizes: S-XXXL 3 OPTi Xpand Waders NEW! Form and function at its best. The flexible neoprene slice under the arms makes it possible to make the waders more tight and better looking. Inside pocket with holders for nylons etc. Can be used as waist waders or chest waders. 5-layer legs and 4-layer with neoprene at top. Reinforced left/ right hi-dense neoprene feet. Color: Sand. Sizes: S-XXXL 4 Outdoor Wading Boot Our classic leather wading boot is now improved. New hooks, rings and shoe laces of best quality. New elastic tounge for easy-on and off. Supple leather and felt sole. Reinforced pull-on heel strap. Extreme comfort and good support in the water or on the land. Color: Tan. Sizes: 7-14/ 39-46
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loop contact LOOP TACKLE DESIGN AB P. O. Box 195 SE-184 22 Ă…kersberga Sweden Phone: +46 8 544 101 90 Fax: +46 8 544 101 99 E-mail: info@looptackle.se LOOP Sales Phone: +46 8 544 101 90 E-mail: order@looptackle.se LOOP Service Center Phone: +46 8 544 101 90 E-mail: service@looptackle.se -----------------------------------
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LOOP TACKLE DESIGN USA 2950 59th Ave Dr E Bradenton, FL 34203 www.looptackle.com LOOP Service Center USA/ West Castaway Flyshop 1114 N. 4th Street Coeur d´Alene, ID 83861 Phone: 1-800-410-3133 E-mail:jroope@castawayflyfishingshop.com Web: www.looptackleusa.com
PS. This is a small selection of our clothes. View our complete range of tackle & accessories:
SSS HKKLP=?GHA OA loop catalog/ p. 10
LOOP Service Center USA/ East Bear’s Den Fly Fishing Co. 98 Summer Street Taunton, MA 02780 Phone: 1-508-977-0700 Email: scott@bearsden.com www.bearsden.com
Living the Wild Side of Life! We’ve all heard it said, but if your an adventure traveller, chances are you’ve met us, along the way. All we seek is wild fish and wild country. The Loop Army is on the move, are you coming?
Fresh from the sea, Arctic Searun Char are seriously strong fighters. The Loop Army testing tackle and clothing on the Ekaluk River, Nunavut, Canada.
yng pho ve to: ask
loop magazine #01.2009
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A rare windless moment captured at Loop Adventure’s, Jurassic Lake tent camp. Jurassic Lake, Patagonia, Argentina.
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loop magazine #01.2009 yngve ask
Being prepared for the occasional Grizzly Bear is serious business if you value your Opti rod and reel combo. Ekaluk River, Nunavut, Canada.
timphot paso: k
tim pask
Claudio Martin releasing his “Last cast fish”. Las Buitreras, Rio Gallegos, Argentina.
Specialty of the house 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, fish!!! peter huber
to: ask phogve yn
A beautiful Atlantic Salmon wearing her suit of “Pure Silver”, making one of many attempts before clearing the falls an continuing upriver. Eastern Canada.
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timphot paso: k
Sockeye Salmon dodging Grizzly bears, with the hopes of reaching the spawning beds. Bristol Bay, Alaska.
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loop magazine #01.2009
Nothing lights up the flats like a Bluefin Trevally. Maldives
yngve ask
Waiting out a storm with the hopes of flying to the coast to chase Leopard Rainbows.Bristol Bay, Alaska.
stefan haider
Returning to the pole after jumping a tarpon that required chasing by boat. Florida Keys.
yng pho ve to: ask
yngve ask
A herd of wild Mustangs looking for an escape route. The Gauchos were waiting! Southern Patagonia, Argentina.
yngve ask
No two patterns are alike, yet they are undeniably Brown Troutish. Kola Peninsula, Russia.
peter huber
Big Brown sporting the perfect camouflage for his surroundings. Kola Peninsula, Russia.
A Loop Opti catching a nap before battling Atlantic Salmon.
d... ontinue To be c
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our motto is a different view! You won’t find thousands of sunsets in our digital database. Or hundreds of panoramic mountain images. Because being predictable in the digital world isn’t what makes us different from our peers. No, we think it is our almost extreme dedication to providing our clients with what we consider a different view of a common theme. So if you are looking for something slightly out of the ordinary, something that isn’t often seen, something that strengthens your brand and attracts attention wherever it is displayed, then Scanout is there for you. Regardless of whether you want a photo, a brochure, a film, an identity or whatever, we’ll work it out for you!
we are active in a wide range of areas... photography, design and video&film!
Idaho Joe Roope cradles a beautiful wild steelhead, just before release.
Idaho Joe Roope and Greg Heister firing up our camp stove. Beacon and eggs anyone?
Mr. K2 filming a fight scene, while trying to keep his camera gear dry.
Loop Tackle is proud to announce sponsorship of...
“Season’s on the Fly” I was underdressed for the boat ride, but I had twice as much on as Joe Roope, and was dressed about the same as Television Producer, Greg Heister. The difference was that I was tucked away in the back of a large boat with a heater, and Greg Heister was following in an open skiff. Did I mention it was May in Wrangell, Alaska? I also forgot to tell you it was 1:00 am in the morning… n Greg Heister has been producing Emmy Award winning Television for years, but has just recently turned his attention to his real passion; Fly Fishing. It didn’t take Greg long to fire up his production company and soon “Season’s on the Fly” was born. The show airs on Fox Sports Northwest and after its debut, quickly became the number one rated fishing show in the Pacific Northwest. It was 2:30 am when we finally arrived at our camp; an old Forest Service cabin. Greg was hatless, had his coat unzipped and didn’t seem to notice it was just above freezing. He’d just traveled well over two hours in an open boat and seemed to relish every bit of it. This didn’t seem normal to me, but even worse was Idaho Joe sliding around the mud flats in his flip flops and shorts. If the truth be known, I was freezing, but there wasn’t any chance I could admit it in that crowd. My only solace was that the camera man looked a bit out of place, but
then I learned he had just returned from climbing K2 and was a bit tired. The morning found us assembling our Loop Opti rods an reels. This is very technical fishing where the angler stays high along the river’s edge and then makes a stealthy approach after spotting a fish holding in the river. These rivers are crystal clear and the fish are very spooky, so one mistake and they are gone. The gear was amazing and we were placing the flies right in the sweet spot time and time again. This was also the first time we had the Loop Opti Stream lines and all of us were shocked at the difference they made. In most cases we had very little time to prepare and making a bunch of false casts was not an option. The Opti lines seem to be built for this exact situation and really delivered for us. I’ve been on some previous filming trips, and it never ceases to amaze me at to what lengths a good camera man will go to get the right shot. Our guy Mr. K2 was like a mountain goat on steroids. He climbed trees, rocks, and half the ridges in the valley to get the footage Greg wanted. Of course none of this would have been possible without these amazing wild fish, and they didn’t let us down. We had great fishing in several different rivers throughout the trip and managed to get more than enough great footage for an episode of “Season’s on the Fly”.
check it out!
www. y.com
seasonsonthefl
_text & photo tim pask
“My hopes are that I deliver a program that highlights all the aspects of why we fly fish, from the beauty of the surrounding landscape to the rivers, lakes or saltwater where these wild fish live.” Greg Heister is an avid outdoorsmen and adventurer. When asked why he decided to produce a Fly Fishing television show he told us the following. “I’ve always loved fly fishing, and my ties to television created the perfect synergies to create Season’s on the Fly. Fly fishing is my life’s passion, and I am striving to create television that not only focuses on the actually catching of fish, but also highlights the ecosystems that wild fish call home. I don’t consider it a right, and understand it’s a privilege to visit these wild places. My hopes are that I deliver a program that highlights all the aspects of why we fly fish, from the beauty of the surrounding landscape to the rivers, lakes or saltwater where these wild fish live.” Loop Tackle is proud to be a sponsor and supporter of “Season’s on the Fly”. You can visit Greg’s website to watch trailers of his show, get fly recipes, or check out photos from his recent trips, at www.seasonsonthefly.com. q
loop magazine #01.2009
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June in Labrador means it’s “Bomber Time!” Fresh from the saltwater, Atlantic Salmon can’t resist a properly presented dry fly.
Southern Labrador Canada
floating for silver! The bomber catches the current and slides to the inside of the seam. A flash, then a dimple and then the realization that the bomber is gone. Fish On! Dry fly fishing for Atlantic Salmon along Canada’s eastern coastline. _text & photo yngve ask
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loop magazine #01.2009
Located in southern Labrador, Canada, this secret river flows over 110 kilometers to the Atlantic Ocean. Chris Verbiski and fishing partner Brian Dalton are currently constructing the only lodge on this river system.
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n I first met Chris Verbiski and Brian Dalton in 2003, while I was on assignment on Russia’s fabled Kharlovka River. My first impressions were that these two guys were on the wrong river system. I mean they were on big water, and showed up with a few single hand rods and a zip lock bag full of dry flies. In a camp where double handed rods were closer to 16 feet then 9 feet, they seemed a bit out of place. There were 14 anglers in camp that week, and when the dust settled Chris and Brian had accounted for 55% of the landed salmon. We quickly became great friends and needless to say I was fascinated by their unique technic and amazing results.
The next season I was invited to travel to Canada and join them for a few weeks in
Labrador. What I found was nothing less then life changing. Of course the fact that we were traveling by helicopter was an added bonus, but I had never seen country like this. While flying from Newfoundland to Labrador we followed the Straights of Belle Isle and encountered numerous icebergs and pods of whales. Chris glanced over my shoulder and simply said,”Very common this time of the year”. I was drawn to the shear contrasts of the setting. Sky blue icebergs, pods of whales, and endless shorelines in both directions. As I said before it was a life changing experience, but this was just the beginning of our journey. Labrador is a maze of wild rivers, which can be both physically and technically challenging. The rivers can range from 20 to 100 meters in width, and the wading can be
treacherous in spots. Foliage commonly grows right to the high water marks, making access almost impossible. Most of the rivers are only accessible by float plane or helicopter, making then extremely tough to reach. The weather ranges from freezing to 35 degrees celsius, all of which can and has occurred in a single day. The black flies and mosquitos can be non-existent or show up in almost unimaginable numbers. The word “Extreme” bests describes Labrador and the pursuit of its wild Atlantic Salmon, but also sets the stag for some of the worlds greatest dry fly fishing. This diverse place molds those who come in to fish its rivers, and they leave better anglers. And whether they are experienced or complete amateurs, they leave better anglers and the desire to return is permanently ingrained.
First cast of the season and the “Bomber” is dead drifting slowly down the river’s seam. A flash shows across the pool and soon the fish is on the fly, but an itchy trigger finger pulls the fly free before the hookup. With adrenaline pumping a second cast brings the fish back and this time calmness prevails. Fish On!
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Chris is fishing behind the helicopter, the transportation for the day.
‘A dream come true’ is how I would best describe my time in Labrador. As a guest of Chris and Jennifer I have had the pleasure to photograph some of the world’s greatest Atlantic salmon fishing. I can’t thanks them enough for these past five seasons and I look forward to many more.
offer the angler perfect seams to Boulder fields offer a great advantage to the salmon, but also bit like riding a mechanical bull. a is radius meter 10 a in salmon drift a dry fly. Playing a 8 kg
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loop magazine #01.2009 Given some of the pool and riverbank conditions it makes it challenging to deliver the fly to the sweet spot. Chris was able to somehow deliver this cast and this super aggressive new arrival crushed a dead drift bomber and then tore the pool to shreds.
Chris tailing a 7 kg salmon on the St. Lewis River. High water and foam on the river presents challenges with dry flies as an angler has to place the fly in ”windows” of clear water.
fishing for salmon with dry flies is almost a different sport that fishing with wet flies.
Luckily for pilot Adam he loves to fly fish, or he’d have some long boring weeks to catch up on his flight logs.
Dry fly fishing for Atlantic Salmon is much different then fishing a wet fly. Dry fly anglers live for the “Take”, and Atlantic Salmon are extremely aggressive, often chasing the fly for several meters. This is not a game for the weak at heart, and its guaranteed to get your adrenalin pumping. Having spent 5 seasons photographing the “Take”, it almost makes the landing of the fish irrelevant, as compared to the actual hooking of the fish. Of course there is no down side to landing a releasing a wild salmon, but do yourself a favor and the next time you head to your favorite salmon river, throw in a box of dry flies. Who knows it might change your life. q
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2&#
flexible and readymade Adapted line system is “pre-set� for the toughest casting situations when using the heaviest and most wind-resistant flies. All component parts have integrated loops and are easy to link together. By switching between the system’s different Bellies and Fronts you can easily change the floating, sinking and casting capabilities of the line and readily adapt to any possible fishing situation. Loop Adapted is a simple line system you assemble by connecting the color-coded loops welded to each component. Simply select the system that matches your rod’s line class. The same color code applies to loops at the running line and tip. The connection between the Belly and Front taper is always black. It has never been so simple. With its varied components, this is truly a line system for those interested in perfectly adjusting to all possible fishing situations. Read further if you are a �line freak�. When we developed the Adapted line our one main requirement was that it should handle all types of casts. The length of the line makes it easy to anchor and place according to the 180 degree principle. This is critical to directing the major portion of the line’s mass in the D-loop precisely opposite of and in line with the target. This is difficult to accomplish with most of the long-belly and Spey lines on the market, but the suitable length of the Loop Adapted
to a meter. This applies both to underhand and overhand casting and quickly adjusts your setup for longer casts. The same principle applies in reverse for shorter casts in tighter areas. For a finer adjustment (for example when fishing very small flies with a light presentation) you can make a quick shift to an Adapted Long Front and a longer, finer tapered leader. We account for both length and weight over the entire combination of components in the Adapted system making it easier for fine adjustments. For example, if you feel that your #9-10 rod functions best with a line weight of 33-36 grams, you may use the following possibilities of combinations: #9-10 Belly + #9-10 Regular Front = 11.2 meters and 34 grams #9-10 Belly + #9-10 Long Front = 12.4 meters and 35 grams #9-10 Belly + #8-9 Long Front = 12.2 meters and 34.5 grams The possibilities are many and by using different combinations of Bellies and Fronts in varying sink rates one can fish effectively with any length cast in any situation. Other possible combinations would suit the same rod for certain casters are: #9-10 Belly + #10-11 Long Front = 12.9 meters and 36 grams #9-10 Belly + #7-8 Long Front = 11.9 meters and 33 grams
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-PX TUSFUDI DPSF
'MPBUJOH #FMMZ XJUI ÂŤPBUJOH 3FHVMBS BOE 4QFZ 'SPOUT *OUFSNFEJBUF #FMMZ XJUI GBTU JOUFSNFEJBUF 3FHVMBS BOE 4QFZ 'SPOUT
4JOL ** #FMMZ XJUI 4JOL *** 3FHVMBS BOE 4QFZ 'SPOUT — $PMPS DPEFE GSPOU
BOE FOE MPPQT
4JOL *7 #FMMZ XJUI 4JOL 7 3FHVMBS BOE 4QFZ 'SPOUT line allows one to place the D-loop directly behind the rod — even with limited room. Thus, a change of direction is much easier to accomplish than with a traditional, longer line. While the front taper is designed to turn over even the largest, heaviest flies, using a Long Front one can still achieve the desired lighter presentation. A line that is “set� for making casts from the tightest launch area makes it that much easier to field-adjust your casting technique when you have more room. For example, with more room you can release a bit more shooting line before making the cast so that you have an �overhang� of up
All of the five combinations mentioned fit within the optimum casting weight of the rod in question and would fish across a very wide spectrum of conditions. The system is not complicated and so long as one always remembers to match black Belly loop to black Front loop it’s nearly impossible to make a mistake. Casting aficionados can let their imaginations run wild with this system! For further information, please download the line table from looptackle.se. There are many lines suitable for many types of casts. Finally there is one line that will handle them all.
loop fly tackle & adventures | www.looptackle.se
PRO TESTIMONIAL !#02'$'#" ',1203!2-0 2&-+ 1 #0%%0#, -32 2&# " .2#" *',# 1712#+ 2DA EJCAJEKQOHU OEILHA HEJA OUOPAI SEPD ?KHKN ?K@A@ HKKLO EO EJ = ?H=OO KB EPO KSJ =J@ OLA=GO PK IA 'B UKQ D=RA JK OLA?E=H NAMQENAIAJP BKN PDA BKNI KN SAECDP EP‘O =O A=OU =O >QUEJC PDA HEJA EJ PDA O=IA ?H=OO =O PDA NK@ UKQ SEOD PK ?=OP EP SEPD 2DEO SEHH CERA UKQ = HEJA PD=P I=P?DAO PDA NK@ =J@ EO OQEP=>HA BKN I=GEJC =HH PULAO KB ?=OPO &KSARAN EB UKQ D=RA OLA?EBE? NAMQENAIAJPO OQ?D =O = HKJCAN DA=@ KN PDA BKNI KB = PNE=JCHA SEPD PDA I=FKNEPU KB SAECDP EJ PDA NA=N OA?PEKJ PDA @=LPA@ HEJA SEHH =HHKS UKQ PK BHAT 'P‘O OEILHA PK J=REC=PA PDNKQCD PDA @=LPA@ HEJA NA?KIIAJ@=PEKJ P=>HA =J@ E@AJPEBU PDA ?KNNA?P ?KILKJAJPO PD=P SEHH =HHKS UKQ PK >QEH@ =J@ LANBA?P PDA AT=?P BKNI =J@ SAECDP UKQ @AOENA 'P‘O A=OU BKN PDKOA SDK @KJ‘P S=JP PDA D=OOHA KB ATLANEIAJPEJC =J@ SE@AHU R=NEA@ BKN PDKOA SDK @K #T=?PHU 7KQ ?=J ARAJ IET AHHU =J@ $NKJP OA?PEKJO EJ PANIO KB HAJCPDO SAECDPO =J@ OEJGEJC @AJOEPEAO +U JAS B=RKNEPA EO PK CK SEPD = BHK=P $NKJP =J@ OEJG AHHU 2DA BHU LNAOOAO B=?A @KSJ PDNKQCD PDA S=PAN ?KHQIJ EJOPA=@ KB >AEJC @NQC =HKJC B=?A QL =O QOQ=H 2K �>NA=G PDA L=PPANJ� D=O =?DEARA@ =J AJPENAHU JAS IA=JEJC 2DANA EO JK HEJA PD=P EO KLPEI=H BKN ARANU PULA KB ?=OPEJC =J@ BEODEJC >QP SEPD = *KKL @=LPA@ *EJA OUOPAI UKQ SEHH >A =O ?HKOA =O EP CAPO !KJP=?P IA =P PDKI=O = HKKLP=?GHA OA 2DKI=O ANCCNAJ !ANPEBEA@ 'JOPNQ?PKN $$$ Œ $A@AN=PEKJ KB $HU $EODANO !!' Œ !ANPEBEA@ !=OPEJC 'JOPNQ?PKN 2&!' Œ 2SK &=J@A@ !ANPEBEA@ 'JOPNQ?PKN #$$ Œ #QNKLA=J $HU $EODEJC OO !' Œ !ANPEBEA@ 'JOPNQ?PKN
PHOTO YNGVE ASK/ SCANOUT.COM
get adapted.
“The film is not dedicated to the trout, but rather to troutloving people who have dedicated their lives to this fish.”
n The trout has always played a central role in Swedish
_title “Trout Bums and Gentlemen”
Release April 2009.
The DVD is available in both a Swedish and English language version. Subtitles are available for Norwegian, Danish and Finnish.
filmmaker Martin Falklind’s life. He is now preparing to release a new film, a declaration of homage to the trout that will be broadcast on Swedish Television. The film contains a mixture of fishing, natural history and portraits of people who have dedicated their lives to the trout.
When Martin Falklind was seven years old, he became completely mesmerized by the trout in the local creek. Ever since then he has been fishing for trout, watching trout, filming trout and writing about them. You could say that Martin is deeply in love with this spotted salmonoid. What is it that makes the trout so lovable and so fascinating? That is the main premise of Martins new film: “Trout bums andGentlemen”. The film begins where fly-fishing started, at the banks of the English chalk streams. Martin really enjoyed shooting this part. – It was like going a hundred years back in time. True gentlemen in tweed were strolling along the river, they had split cane rods and only upstream dry-fly fishing was permitted. – They even had a river keeper who monitored the fishermen so that the rules were obeyed. He also moved the lawn, so there would be no inconveniences whatsoever when you fished… “Charming in a very British way”, says Martin. From England, Martin makes an odyssey to some of the world’s best trout fishing places: Argentina, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Iceland. However this film has a slightly different angle than a focus on fishing. The film is not dedicated to the trout, but rather on trout-loving people who have dedicated their lives to this fish. The Most Widespread Fish The British not only “invented” fly-fishing, but they also brought the trout to all their colonies. Therefore the species of salmo
trutta, which has its origin in Europe, is now the most widely distributed fish in the world. There are trout from these origins in Australia, New Zealand, Africa and in North and South America. In some of these new lands, environmental conditions have caused the trout to grow to enormous sizes. Therefore, one of the most important stops on Martins journey is Argentina, the country that presently holds the world record. In Argentina, filming conditions were tough due to the hard winds. “The fish were on our side though, so it turned out very well in the end”, says Martin with a secretive smile on his face. “At least that fish was on my side. I got the biggest trout of my life on this journey.” Throughout the filming, the fish were not always so cooperative. On the first trip to the island of Bornholm in the Baltic, the trout simply refused to bite in front of the camera. The whole film team spent nine days on the island and did not see a single fish. The day after the team left, the wind turned and trout were everywhere. That is just the reality of making a fishing film. There are so many uncertainties… An Encouraging Story Over the last two years Martin spent weeks crawling around in small creeks, trying to get good shots of trout spawning. “I have almost become amphibious”, says Martin with a laugh. “It has been cold and wet, but I really enjoyed it. Sometimes the fish came so close, that I had to back up with the camera.
The film will be broadcast on Swedish Television. Martin hopes that it will please both sportfishermen as well as people who simply enjoy natural history. It is a very encouraging story: u u
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No other fish has so many friends all over the world. For this fact, the trout has a relatively bright future. In Sweden, for instance thousands of miles of creeks and rivers, have been restored by enthusiastic sportfishermen. These restorations not only help the trout, but the whole eco-system. We hope that this film will inspire more people to take action, for the trout and for other species as well.
“It’s the best of both worlds – at world’s end...”
n Loop is proud to present the first ever flyfishing film from Jurassic Lake. The experienced flyfisher Andre Brun and his film team have spent some time in the highlands of Argentina to document what is certain to become a legendary destination for flyfishers from around the world.
Lago Strobel aka Jurassic Lake is a unique place in many ways. First of all, we’ve got the lake itself with its enormous trout and great fishing opportunities by the river mouth, island and along the bays. Secondly, and in my opinion what partly makes this a true paradise for a flyfisher, is the small gin clear river. Just an hour walk upstream you’ll find the most beautiful hidden small pools in between the riffled stretches as the river meanders down the valley. Here you have great opportunities to spot a large trout or two rising to dry flies in some fantastic surroundings. Up here you’ll also find the smaller trout because they tend to stay in the river a while after birth. They certainly don’t want to go out into the big lake before they have gained some weight. Those who do, probably get eaten before the next dawn!
_title “Trout Bum 4 Jurassic Lake”
Release April 2009.
In the film TROUT BUM 4 – JURASSIC LAKE you will see both of these fantastic scenarios: The stalking of large trout with a light rod and dry flies up in the river, and rock ‘n roll fishing with streamers in the lake, where the large trout smash the fly as you’ve never felt before. Join André Brun and his film crew as they explore this fantastic place in search of monster trout! It’s just incredible and surely must be one of the absolute best places on earth to fish for big trout. It’s the best of both worlds – at worlds end.
loop magazine #01.2009
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Don Crillos Craziest S tory!
f ly f i s h i n g t e x t
the good, the bad and who’s the guy with the axe? Our first camp was equipped with the smallest tents on the planet, but at least there were no salmon within a thousand kilometers. Our second camp was paradise, until our first clients arrived. We soon realized that our only salvation lay in the way of a 60 kg boat journey, a bloody axe and body parts that weighted down and sunk the boat. But at least there were no Salmon... text christer sjöberg illustration peter Huber Russia opened up. They spoke of it every day in the media. After 10 years of scouring Norwegian salmon rivers with poor result, my thoughts began to turn to the possibility of untouched salmon rivers in this giant, new frontier - Russia. Some rumors already circulated in Sweden that there were rivers on the Kola that were boiling with salmon! My partner Johan Abelsson was lightning fast and established contact with Olle Prytz who arranged hunting excursion to the south Kola. Olle, who had been there many times, confirmed there were many rivers to choose from and all were more or less full of salmon. Johan left for reconnaissance in June and the result was promising. He looked at the Megra first and even though it was actually an autumn river, there were many, many salmon. There was no time to waste! I pushed our marketing apparatus to immediately put the first groups together. The longing for a real adventure inside Russia was tremendous and the thought of untouched salmon rivers made it even more appealing. The best time was supposed to be autumn – from mid August on. For the first week I had assembled my best fishing buddies who were thirsty for the chance at large salmon. The second week was comprised of a film-team from Airflo in Great Britain. I gave the Airflo team a fixed price for all rods and in turn (to finance their travels with excess weight in camera equipment) they sold four rods to other fly anglers. The initial week with my friends led us over Moscow to Archangel.We spent a night there in a terrible hotel without food. At least there was Russian champagne for a dollar per bottle... The hunger was quickly swept away and we were a happy group that finally went to bed with nappy, dirty little blankets to cover us. Who cared? The next morning, a helicopter would take us the last miles to our newly-built, superfantastic tent camp. I had provided detailed drawings that specified wooden floors, new cots and more or less all the amenities of home. I sat in the helicopter and thought to myself, “Now these guys are going to see a real camp in the wilderness, where one can rough it in style!” I blindly trusted Olle who was an experienced outfitter to fix it right. A very unpleasant situation awaited 58
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me upon arrival and I couldn’t believe my eyes. There were tiny little tents direct from Geckås (as close to Wal Mart as you can get in Sweden). When you bent down far enough to be able to see inside, it was clear there were no floors and no cots – just little sleeping bags arranged in the dirt! I mean, this would have been okay for my friends and I, but there were English gentlemen (who had paid well) in the party that would follow during the second week! The larger meal tent was a little better, but the chairs were simply sections of rough logs stood on end! I began to panic a bit and wondered how the bathroom arrangements had been handled... The next shock was a hole in the ground with a rail to hold onto and a bit of paper alongside! I sat amidst a million mosquitoes waiting for a horsefly to begin boring into my skin and wondered how in the hell I was going to explain my way out of this! Like I said, if it were my friends and I – it would be acceptable. We were there to fish and it didn’t matter! I just didn’t want to think about the guests that were due the next week... It was no exaggeration to say that this was a wilderness camp. I thought to myself, ‘Okay, if the fishing’s as good as it should be, it won’t matter – even to the full-price guests.’ Hmmm... okay.. the bar.. yes, where was the bar? It couldn’t be a real wilderness camp without one! At the entrance hung a wooden sign which read “Mosquito Bar” and it was connected to the meal tent. This proved to be the most functional and wellmade corner of the camp. The Russian camp manager Victor had set his heart and soul in this area (it was obvious that it was his own enterprise) and it was full of beer, vodka, and naturally champagne! Victor was prepared and when we came to the bar he announced the grand opening with a salvo of three shots from his flare pistol! The sky was red and we were a bit stunned at the sudden and unanticipated blasts. As it turned out, Victor was also to be our fishing guide. It occurred to me that he didn’t look like much of a fishing guide standing there in his bartender uniform. I wondered if he seriously understood why we were there. The prices were extremely high – three USD for a beer! But okay, he was an entrepreneur and we were in the middle of nowhere. After
three beers he turned out to be very nice and we accepted the camp as it was. Now it was time to put the tackle together and we did it with nervous anticipation looking at the river in the hopes of seeing a fish or two show while we were gearing up. We saw nothing. I had already manufactured special reels and engraved the name of those famous and lucky men in new Loop reels with the words “First in Megra” for each in the group. We tested our knots and chose heavy nylon – surely necessary for the bold monsters that awaited us. We theorized fly choice and discussed not wading out too far so as not to disturb all the fish that lay at the drop and at the edge of the pools. Now it was serious – the first Swedish flies were going to do the job. We marched out to our spots and as I chose mine I steadied myself and thought ‘Take a deep breath and study the water.’ In front of me was a fantastic pool neck where salmon had to stop and rest. I didn’t see any, but then again they don’t always show. The water temperature was 17 degrees centigrade – warm, but absolutely not too warm. Not here. I made my first cast in Russia at a 90 degree angle to get a little speed on the fly. It must have been too short, because the fish didn’t take. ‘After traveling 200 kilometers, I had missed the fish by a meter!’ I drew out a meter more line and cast again. Same procedure followed for one cast after another. After a couple of hours I returned to the others sorely disappointed. I had hoped that someone had gotten a salmon, but the look on their faces said it all. All had caught grayling – and big ones. All had set world records for grayling, but not one single contact with a salmon. The river was empty of them. The autumn run wasn’t in yet, we surmised. Certainly it would come in the night! We gathered at Victors bar and came up with a brilliant and promising plan. We would hike downstream in the morning to see the lower river and meet the incoming run of salmon! The hike would be a warm-up for the hard work of fighting large salmon the entire day! When we met at the bar the following evening, after fishing all the downstream pools the entire day and hiking home again, the mood was not as optimistic. No one had seen, heard or felt a single salmon. It was
“We agreed he should fly lower so that maybe we could jump out and grab a treetop on the way down!”
just grayling after grayling after grayling. Megra must be the world’s best grayling river. New theories abounded. The water was too low, too warm... of course! We need a couple of cold nights or maybe a little rain. The nights were warm – unusually warm for that time of year, and the mosquitoes became more numerous and aggressive. On top of everything else the food became worse and the portions smaller – and the English guests hadn’t even arrived yet! The only thing in sufficient supply other than insects, were the three dollar beers – which despite numerous attempts, we were unable to influence. Attempts at the salmon fishing eventually gave way to other activities and we organized the Megra Olympiad. The games ranged from longest precision casts while deep wading, to hand casting dry flies and a contest for the largest number of grayling one could catch over one kilo without changing position. Nobody cared who won. I began to sink into a depression as the river also sank and became warmer! Food was a sad and special story in and of itself! The cook’s speciality was spaghetti and chicken bones without the chicken which was (luckily) fast running out. Of course I knew the camp was a long ways from the description I had provided and the camera crew and English guests were soon to arrive. The only thought that resounded in my head was that I had to stop them! They should begin their journey tomorrow, so there was still a little time, but I was in the middle of nowhere... How should I contact them? 2 I thought about a canoe we found in the grass the first evening and a plan began to form. I had the telephone number for the Airflo group in my pocket... Of course it was going to be extremely difficult to get Victor in the canoe and get him downstream to Kolchoz. I knew he would not easily leave the bar! With heartfelt (albeit expensive) insurances that I would vouch for every drop of alcohol consumed, we waved goodbye to Victor as he disappeared downstream. He looked very unsteady and it was at once obvious he’d never paddled a canoe before! It was as if this wasn’t his thing. The bar was his thing! The message he had that he should read in his broken English to the Airflo group was crystal clear... Don’t come! Stay home! There are no damn salmon! After Victor’s departure, the beer became considerably less expensive, the slices of bread much thinner and the preserved grayling began to dwindle. In fact all the food was going fast. We were really, really sick of sour grayling. Sheer hunger drove us to the last unenthusiastic, but serious attempt to catch a salmon. After three hours there was a heavy tug on the line followed by the distantly familiar thump, thump of a hooked salmon trying to return to its lie. The shock and surprise was total! I quickly landed a 15 pound cock fish with much exaggerated celebration. All the strict catch and release promises were quickly forgotten and the terrible Russian cook was immediately fired. Salmon with macaroni and Russian champagne never had tasted so exquisite (and never will again)! Victor did not return that evening or even the next which was the group’s last one there. I felt very relieved that I had successfully stopped the following group from England. In fact we celebrated heavily the last evening not the least of which was the fact that we had so cleverly spared those innocent anglers the torture of the type of week we had just endured. “God Save the Queen”
rang out of the meal tent until the very early hours of the following morning! We awoke very early the next morning to the bleat of the approaching helicopter. The prop wash crushed the camp and blew it away. I tried my best to hold onto my tent as it ripped through my fingers and nearly severed one. It was bleeding profusely. No matter though, because the ordeal was over! I looked up to the sky and saw a very curious sight. There were hands waving in the windows of the aircraft. ‘Very strange’ I thought. It won’t take that many Russians to disassemble this pathetic excuse for a camp! Then another thought formed... A very, very dark black thought formed. ‘Shit! Those are English hands!’and the realization blasted into my sore head and made me even sicker that the night of drinking already had. I wanted to disappear, to melt into the earth. Ush... how in the hell could this have happened? After all, we sent Victor!?!?! The group jumped enthusiastically out of the helicopter and I could read the anticipation on their smiling, well-groomed English faces. They were in tweeds and waxed cotton and looked rather impressive – as if they belonged on an estate somewhere getting ready to shoot grouse. Victor was nowhere in sight. The Airflo team began unloading aluminum box after aluminum box and it occurred to me that the fees for the weight must have been exorbitant! A funny thought went through my head. Airflo had just come out with their first fly line the year before and it was the kinkiest most unmanageable fly line ever – like old telephone cable. The thought occurred to me that there were no salmon around to straighten that damn thing out! ‘Wake up!’ I told myself. I was still in shock that they were even there! ‘I’ve got to take a quick decision – got to get it together – we can’t stay here!’ I thought and I asked the pilot to shut down and wait for a bit. As the helicopter crew began to pick what was left of the tents out of the trees, I invited the party for a drink and asked them into the Mosquito Bar – the only bar within hundreds of miles. I poured a strong pint and a triple vodka for each – they were going to need them. My Swedish friends held a little distance and I could see that they felt horrible for me. I can guarantee you; it was of very little comfort! I nonchalantly declared that at the Mosquito Bar, one has to take the vodka in a single gulp. I took one myself (which I needed at the moment worse than anyone even though it was 1100 in the morning and I had just been rudely awaken with a terrible hangover). Then I proceeded to give them the story, to give them the best information that I had for them; I gave them the truth. I gave the cold facts about the warm, low river and asked if they had received my message. They had. They thought it was a joke! ‘Whew – that helped a little!’ I thought. I told them the decision was theirs. If they wanted to sit for a week catching nothing but grayling and eating nothing more than grayling soup for three meals a day – they could. Of course they could also get back in the helicopter and get the hell out of there! The group saw I was dead serious and they instantly took the decision to return home and make new plans. I further explained that the arrangements were made for return in a week and that I couldn’t speak Russian. I had no hotel reservations or the possibility to change the flight tickets and the Russian guide loop magazine #01.2009
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Victor was gone. “No problem” said the group. Decent people with a clear understanding of the circumstances and a typical British “chin up” attitude – I was impressed. I had anticipated a riot and revolt. The helicopter could only take one group at a time and my Swedish friends had a flight to catch. They loaded up and departed. The plan was for the pilot to return for us in four hours. The Englishmen had traveled for a couple of days and quickly decided to try to use the four hours to advantage. They began to tackle up to give the river at least a cast for their troubles. One of the group, Gwyn, remained in camp to show me his fly fishing equipment. Everything was handmade to perfection. This was a special guy. He seemed much more interested in gear than in fishing. Hand-wound rods, boxes of hand-tied flies – everything looked as if it belonged in a museum. As I understood it, he even had a gold-plated Hardy Reel mounted in the grill of his new Volvo at home. He said he was the only one who had one. I agreed that he probably was. Those that fished caught a lot of very large grayling. They were all impressed with the river and agreed that the autumn run was late because the autumn was so late. They were not angry in the least (that I could see) and even mused that they could imagine investing in building huts for their eventual return. The “camp” as it was they would avoid. The helicopter came and we were soon back in Archangel at same the hotel with onedollar champagne and nappy, dirty little blankets. Suddenly Victor appeared; he had managed a boat ride up from Kolchoz and had no interest in hearing about the fishing – only about how much alcohol we had consumed! I felt like a partner. Now it was time to get everyone home and at the archangel airport everything was booked and after ten hours we were back at the same hotel with the same amenities. Another day wasted and I was very, very happy when we finally reached Moscow. The Englishmen were top-notch and I was very grateful for their humor and their tough attitude. We parted as friends with promises for the future. I assured them that the next one would be on me and made a promise to myself: ‘The next time find your own river and make damn sure it’s full of salmon!’ Of course it had been an unusually warm and late autumn and the warm water in the Megra caused the delay in the salmon run. Even so, we felt like we needed to find another river – after all, there were hundreds to choose from! After long deliberation and intensive inquiries with the local authorities, we settled on the Soyana. It was a long three-hour helicopter ride from Archangel, but the river bordered a beautiful national park on one side that was untouched. It seemed large enough at 90 kilometers long. The authorities wouldn’t confirm that there were salmon in the river and it was clear that they had been taking fish for themselves for a while. We had heard fantastic reports and had it from reliable sources that the river was full of fish in the three to six kilo range with 60
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a certain percentage of larger fish. It was music to Johan’s and my ears! This time I resolved not to take a chance, but to go there and test it first before committing any group to it. I would recon a camp site, make damn sure the camp was built to our specifications and the food and amenities were in good order. The Englishmen were on standby! At the beginning of June we sat in a little M12 helicopter ready for takeoff. We had the necessities with us; fishing gear, tents and sleeping bags, and the required survival equipment. The plan was for the helicopter to set us down in the middle of Russia near the top of the river and to retrieve us after some weeks at the bottom of the system. The rotors turned and we looked at one another; this was it. We were so excited that we nearly shook from anticipation. The blades turned faster and we were close to takeoff when a light on the instrument panel began to blink red. The pilot was ready to fly and hit the light a couple of times like one taps a television set that doesn’t perform properly. It must have been serious because the light continued to blink and the pilot finally shut the motor down cursing in words we didn’t understand, but understood perfectly. After one half hour a gang of mechanics appeared and after unscrewing some panels on the aircraft, they hammered and slammed away at the motor for two hours and declared it fixed. The pilot started the beast again and away we flew. Finally up in the air! After an hour of flying we heard another commotion from the cockpit and saw that the red light was blinking again. More beating on the instrument panel now – problem was we were not on the ground like last time! We were in the air and both Johan and I thought the end was very near. The pilot was sweating bullets and was clearly scared to death. We agreed he should fly lower so that maybe we could jump out and grab a treetop on the way down! It was chaos with everyone yelling and none understanding the other. Finally he screamed at us to shut up and continued to fly as we held our breath and watched the light continue to blink. We were certain of the imminent crash that would follow. After a while we observed that the pilot was no longer bothered by the light and as time drew on after that we remarkably also became numb to it. We landed after three hours at the top of the river where the taiga forest gave way to the tundra. There was a manned weather station and we decided it would be the perfect starting point for the adventure. Relieved and exhausted by the ordeal, but very happy for the security of the ground and other people, we set about to find the spot for eco-tourists we had dreamt of. Well away from the helicopter we stepped towards the ramshackle little house that bristled with all types of antennas and such. The guard dogs growled angrily, but held their distance. We knocked on the door and were greeted by a boy of 15 or so in a WWII Russian general’s hat. It was a bit surreal and now mama and papa came out from behind the door and all were sizing us up. We tried to explain that we were from Sweden
and wondered if they perhaps had a boat to sell. It didn’t take long before we were offered the well-known borsch soup and a glass of vodka. The boy in the general’s hat was intent to show us his room. We weren’t sure what to expect and as we peeked inside we saw posters of the rock band Kiss on the wall and an electric guitar hung in the corner. This kid was a hard rocker with a general’s hat on in the absolute middle of nowhere. It was too cool. After a hard negotiation over soup and vodka we had a deal. We rented a rowboat for seven USD and would deliver it downstream in one week. We could have also purchased a wolf or bear hide, but we politely declined. What the hell should we do with those? At any rate, all the skins on the wall of the storage room were probably a good indication that those animals were in ample supply in the surrounding area. We certainly weren’t convinced that he had managed to shoot them all. Down at the river as we threw our gear in the rowboat a salmon suddenly sprang into the air a few meters out. I hadn’t time to even think much less pick up a rod when Johan screamed “salmon”! He had our first Soyana salmon on the line! At three kilos, it wasn’t big, but what a sudden and surprising start! We rowed downstream and stopped at every pool and neck and tail that looked good. They took everywhere! We were in paradise. It was so beautiful, the river was magnificent and the solitude was a dream. Behind every corner the river appeared even more majestic as the afternoon sun dipped behind and shone through the birch forest. That evening we pulled up to the shore in the middle of the Russian wilderness and made camp to the sound of howling wolves against the bubbling tone of the river. Heady stuff. We lost count of the number of fish we caught and had no idea whether tomorrow would be the same. We had succeeded, and a prettier, richer salmon river neither of us had ever seen. The next morning we proceed downstream as planned. The order of the day was to find the right location for the eco-tourist camp. By the afternoon we found an open, grassy meadow bordered with birch that was situated near many pools both up- and downstream. It was a salmon mine! All one had to do was a lay a cast straight out and the take was inevitable. It was an ideal location for the first Loop Adventure camp. We set up our own little camp and started to prepare food when we heard a motor in the distance from downstream. We had no idea what awaited us where we were some 60 kilometers upstream from Kolchosen. After a while a boat appeared with a coughing little Russian motor that carried two men. They were dressed in skins and the barrels of weapons poked out from their clothing. We waved and thought to explain we were from Sweden. We never had the chance. They neither waved nor even acknowledged us and the boat chugged by and out of sight. It was rather unsettling. After a while, we made up our minds to forget the incident – it was surely an ordinary encounter – and went back to task of catching salmon after salmon after salmon. We never bored of it – who would? We took them on dries and even
“They were dressed in skins and the barrels of weapons poked out from their clothing...” nymphs. We fished at extreme speed with exaggerated downstream mends and caught them just as well with dead-drifted flies. After a while we were challenged to find a method that did not work! The next morning over coffee we heard the motor again from upstream and shortly thereafter the two men appeared again. This time they steered directly toward us with no greeting whatsoever and the hair rose on our necks and the adrenaline thumped in our heads. We each had a knife within arm’s reach – who knew what could happen? They jumped out of the boat with a large plastic sack and dumped it on the ground in front of us. They both sat and still without a word one reached out a pulled a bottle from his rucksack opening it in the same motion. He offered the bottle to me and I understood. The problem was, the stuff smelled worse than turpentine! I was casually looking at the bottle as if to appreciate it before drinking when in reality I was trying to see if there was a skull and crossbones imprinted on it! In a split-second decision I took a chug and passed it back. Johan’s turn was next. He let out a breath and took his swig in turn. They just looked at us and still without words looked as if they wanted to ask “Well, what the hell do you sissies like to drink?” As the bottle went back to the Russian he took half of it in a single pass. As soon as the first was gone, a second bottle appeared and they polished it off with equal finesse. Directly thereafter went the third. Now they were ready to talk – finally. Too bad we couldn’t understand a word, because talk they did! One of our visitors stood and turned out the plastic sack in front of us. It was a bearskin – still bloody from the night’s hunt! They wanted to sell us a bearskin! We began to laugh – carefully that is. What a relief it was! We jumped into a hard negotiation (as now we were much braver than before) and settled upon five USD for the hide. We had no idea what we should do with it, but everyone was quite satisfied. They jumped up and gave us big hugs and many stinky Russian kisses and bade us farewell until the next time we should meet as old and treasured friends. At least I think that’s what they said! Over the next four days we caught more salmon
than we could count. The largest was about eight kilos and the average was between three and five. They were all sea-bright and fresh and it was still only June. Just think how it would be when the summer run came in July! The thought was dizzying! Soon my English friends would experience the salmon fishing of their lives! We were certain of it. When we heard the helicopter on the last day it began to rain. As we loaded up and departed the eco-campsite it was pouring. It was the eighth of June. Back home in Sweden the reports of world’s best salmon fishing had the Englishmen in high anticipation. The film team packed seven large aluminum containers and Gwyn had readied his treasures and plated fly reels. The camera gear alone cost USD 8000 in overweight fees to transport. Last year’s team was together again in the middle of July; the best time on the Soyana. We were in the same filthy little hotel in Archangel without food, but this time we had smuggled in sausage and ham which we enjoyed with the cheap champagne. We sent a team of Russians out a week earlier to build the camp. They had everything that was lacking the past year to include materials for wooden floors, mattresses and even a large dining table and level benches to sit on. We estimated the time sufficient to complete the construction. After three hours the helicopter dove towards the river. Already from the air I saw that something was wrong and the closer we got the surer I was. ‘This was not the Soyana’ I thought. ‘It just couldn’t be.’ It was still raining and raining hard. The river was a swollen tempest of brown mud and floating trees and flotsam and jetsam. Now I recognized the camp site. My meadow was covered in muddy backwater and the camp itself was built in amongst the trees in mosquito territory. It was pretty quiet in the helicopter. Not a word from anyone.‘This couldn’t be the Soyana, something is wrong’ we all thought. One glance at the river said everything. It would be unfishable for a month. The empty stares and disappointed acknowledgements of the situation were universal. It was unimaginable that it could happen again...
Suddenly a rocket shot up into the sky and the familiar red smoke signaled a hearty welcome from our old friend Victor. He was smiling from ear to ear as he invited us into the Soyana Mosquito Bar and offered a first complimentary drink to all as he surely contemplated his best bar week ever – even better than the first in Megra. I inspected the camp and made some mental notes. ‘Important to sand the wood floors properly and to ensure the tent sides were mosquito proof. Good God what a sloppy, shoddy job!’ I thought. The primitive construction had a sort of rough, rustic charm, but wasn’t really what I had in mind. The rest of the camp was constructed in similar style and combined with the river situation it all sort of knocked the remaining air out of my sails. I once again felt as if I was on a slippery slope right out into the raging, brown mud slide that used to be a river. It is this type of situation that provides the toughest test of one’s character. All to the last man had experience the previous year’s debacle. After scarcely an hour everyone was rigged with the largest and most colorful flies they had. There were grim faces that reminded me more of soldiers preparing for battle than of gentlemen out to enjoy a week’s fishing. The film team was also at work. They had found a little backwater and filmed grayling fishing as carefully and intently as they had planned to do with the salmon. There was no sadness or sorrow the first two days. Unfortunately, there were no salmon either. By day three I wanted to just lay hidden in my sleeping bag as if taken by a sickness. By lunch the first small protests began. Everyone knew that nature had dealt us a bad hand yet again, but the food, well, that was another story! “How about some real food? Is there no beef here? This pasta is terrible and is getting on my last nerve!” The protest was unanimous. Then and there Johan and I decided to act. We were as ashamed as dogs who had been scolded for peeing on the carpet, and we made up our minds to do something about it. We took the chance that we could buy some meat 60 kilometers downstream in Kolchosen. Normally, I would never have undertaken such a trip – we had no idea of the force of the different falls that lay between us and our loop magazine #01.2009
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destination and we had only a small outboard motor with which to fight our way back home through the tempest. We had no extra gasoline either, but it just didn’t matter. Anything was better than sitting and doing nothing. We were off and after the ride of my life some six hours later we were at the mouth of the river and could see the White Sea at Kolchosen! Twenty little wooden houses stood on a hill and we drew the boat up and made off in their direction up the longest wooden staircase I’d ever seen in my life. We knocked at the first house and after a long while a man in a bathrobe appeared at the door. He just stared at us and we tried to explain we were fishing 60 kilometers upstream. Soon we were sitting before a bowl of soup at the table in complete amazement... he spoke prefect English! It turned out he was a pilot home on vacation at his old village! “Of course you can buy some meat! I’ll help you arrange everything.” He led us though the village as he helped us make the inquiries and after a while the entire town was gathered to see the crazy Swedes that wanted to buy meat. Finally we came to a storage barn where there were hanging animals. ‘Oh, we’ve found meat alright’ I thought to myself. I guess I’d imagined that it would be processed and packaged... A man let a hanging cow down and gave me an axe. I looked at him bewildered and understood that before this entire village I was welcome, but had to help myself. I handed the axe to Johan and he immediately gave it back to me. He quickly slid away and busied himself with the audience. All eyes were on me. ‘Okay, I thought, I guess it’ll be the back half’ and
I began to work at cleaving the animal into two pieces. The blood and gristle flew and I looked as if I’d been on the battlefield in a knight’s tale. It was not easy, but after a bit I achieved separation. I gave the axe to its owner and the pilot asked if we were satisfied. As I nodded yes a woman with an abacus came forward and the wooden counters rang out as she totaled our purchase. 580 rubles the pilot translated. After a bit of negotiation we settled on 12 USD for the half cow. Four strong men carried it down the long stairway and lay it carefully in the boat. As we boarded, we noticed the waterline was quite close to the top of the gunnels. Everyone waved a cheerful goodbye to the crazy anglers and none gave us a chance in hell of making it back upstream alive. Johan gave the start cable sharp tug and managed to pull the little motor off the transom. We watched in horror as it sank into the river. In the same motion the entire boat with two men and half a cow was on its way to follow the motor when the whole affair was saved by many strong arms! Several hours later the boat was fixed, the motor was once again secure and we were truly on our way. We were in for a fight against a heavy current with a bigger load than the boat was ever made for. It didn’t matter. The English guests were going to have beef and our hearts were gladdened at the resourcefulness and sheer simplistic ingenuity we had encountered in Kolchosen. It was remarkable and it made us stronger than we otherwise would have been. It was five o’clock in the morning in freezing temperatures and we fought our way upstream. Some of the pools were too
Last word!
with heart and passion! It has been a long journey since Christer Sjoberg and I first spoke about making a magazine for Loop. If I’m not mistaken, we were sipping a beer on the banks of the Ponoi river in Russia. We were in our waders, tired after a long week of fishing, but we were still at it because it’s what we love to do. It’s an honor to make this magazine together with a company like Loop. We share their way of thinking. We also know there are a lot of passionate individuals out there and this is a message to you! If your travels are extraordinary and the stories from them interesting, please feel free to contact us. We only ask that it come from the heart and with passion! //Editor Yngve Ask, yngve@scanout.com
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much for the motor and we were forced to the shore to drag the craft forward to the next lay-by where we could start the motor again. The sun finally came and gave us some warmth and strength, but we were starving and exhausted. It didn’t matter. We made the camp by noon and there was no one out fishing. No one saw our approach either. We cut 8 of the absolute largest steaks in the history of butchery and gave them to the Russian cook. The group assembled a while later in the meal tent and wondered where we had been. We said nothing. After a few moments the plates came in and the entire group just stared in amazement. Nothing was said. After what seemed like an eternity one deep laugh began and spread like wildfire. The entire group was howling and pointing and slapping each other and shaking their heads. Once again the English humor and strength of character proved more than impressive. We promised to find a river that would not blow out from rainfall. We promised to do our homework and to avoid this from happening once again. And those around us still had faith. In fact, many are still our guests today. As we finished our steaks we began to talk seriously about the whispers we had heard of the rivers in the north on the Kola Peninsula. All agreed it was worth a go. All were interested. No one spoke of building huts this time...
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