PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
JOURNAL
Jan / Feb 2010
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Vol. 07
Number 01, 2010
Jan / Feb 2010, Edition
Penticton Flyfishers Box 354, 113-437 Martin St., Penticton, B.C., V2A 5L1
Contents
Editor Bruce Turnbull Home Ph:250-493-7386 Work Ph:250-487-2000 Fax 250-487-2049 Email: bturnbul@telus.net (or) bruce.turnbull@raymondjames.ca
President Angus Cameron 250-762-4719 haggisscot@shaw.ca Vice President Phil Rogers 250-493-8832 pjrogers@shaw.ca Treasurer Ken Baker kbbaker@telus.net Secretary Denis Currie 496-5499 Membership Director Tom Knight twknight@telus.net The Penticton Flyfishers are members of
Page 3— Presidents Report Page 4 & 5—Equipment Review— Fishing Hats Page 6 & 7– Nantucket Sleigh Ride Page 8— Election Notice Page 9 & 10—Knots in the Making Page 11— Idaho Fish & Game Page 12— Aquatic Species at Risk Page 13— Bass Pro Shop Calgary Page 14— Postill Lake Resort Page 15— 2010 Fish Out Dates Page 16— Apache Trout Page 17—Photo Gallery—Penticton Creek Troubles Page 18— Calendar and Classifieds Page 19—Tying and Fishing Techniques
Harry Shaw at Penticton Creek—by Bruce Turnbull
BC Federation of Fly Fishers (BCFFF) BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) Federation of Fly Fishers (International FFF) Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance (OSCA)
Penticton Flyfishers New Website is www.pentictonflyfishers.ca
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Presidents
PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Report by Angus Cameron 2009 is fast closing it's doors as we approach another Xmas season to end same. Your's truly would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude and thanks for the support shown and delivered to your President for this past year. The Club's operating year (2009) is coming to an end and it can be concluded that this past year's Club operations were nothing short of "great" and hopefully this will continue into 2010 , and I'm sure it will lead up to another successful and rewarding year.
Thus, from the President's perspective I would like to wish all our members and their families a very Merry Xmas and a happy New year in the mix. It is my desire to have all our members make a concerted effort to continue to support the next Club President and endeavour to commit to the Club and make 2010 a reflection of 2009. I may be repeating myself but it bears repeating and thus please accept my sincerest thanks for the support you have afforded me this past two years and please show the same support for our pending new President and help make
his tenure the same as mine was -- my thoughts and wishes are with the Club members and as I have stated "let's make 2010 a carbon copy of the last two years". Sincerely yours. Angus Cameron
Your 2009 Executive
Treasurer Ken Baker
Vice Pres Phil Rogers
President Angus Cameron
Secretary Denis Currie
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Equipment Reviewby
Bruce Turnbull
Having a quality fishing hat as a part of your fly-fishing outfit can be the difference between having an outing you will always remember or one that you wish that you could forget. Simple as they are, fishing hats play a key role in keeping anglers dry, warm, and protected from weather and insects. Fishing hats range from your ordinary baseball cap to a traditional wide-brimmed Stetson. What ever you choose make sure you realize what you wear will need to do the job that you want from your hat. Too often, anglers simply grab whatever is hanging in front of the door on the way out. A good flyfishing hat is something that keeps the sun out of your eyes and face, won't blow off even in a stiff wind, water repellent, and dries quickly and prevents sunburn on your neck. Different styles of hats Baseball Caps: while these are the simplest of all the different fishing hats they really aren't always the best choice for the serious angler for a number of reasons. First of all, ball caps easily blow off if you hit windy conditions while out on the water. Secondly, most ball caps are made of cotton, meaning they will absorb the sweat produced by your body while walking to your favourite fishing hole. Once these caps get wet they will stay wet all day making it uncomfortable to wear for the remainder of the day. Lastly, ball caps are not great at keeping the rain off of you. With all that being said baseball caps are still the number-one hat used for fishing around simply because almost everyone has one lying around the closet. And if you do not have any other fishing hats then a baseball hat will certainly work. Up-Downer Baseball Cap: This style fishing hat is simply a better version of the standard baseball cap. This type of hat has an extended front bill shielding your face from the sun's rays, a roll-down cape to protect your neck and a chin strap to keep the hat securely on top of your head. These updowner hats are a great choice for anglers
Fishing HATS
who are fishing the shallows and flats where the sun can be very hot and the angler needs maximum protection on their head. Traditional WideBrimmed Caped Hat: These types of hats are what come to mind for most when anyone mentions fishing hats. These types of hats are the ideal fishing hat combining a wide brim, a neck cape, floatation, chin strap and lots of venting to keep you cool. Additionally, these wide brimmed hats are ideal for travel, whether you're on a safari in Africa or backpacking in the Smokey Mountains these hats will protect you from the sun and make your activities that much more enjoyable. Booney Hat: Sometimes thought of as a "hunting hat," there are many great booney hats on the market built just with the angler in mind. Most of these come in a light color to as to not soak up heat and have a wide brim to keep out the sun's rays. Some of the better versions are made of waterproof synthetic material that is breathable and lightweight. Key features of a quality fishing hat: Out of all the different styles and types of fishing hats on the market, a few key features make one hat better then the next. • Hat brim: One of the most important of all features included in a fishing that is the type and size of the brim. If you choose a baseball style hat then a molded, oversized bill is a necessity to keep the sun off of your face and neck. If you choose the traditional hat then a wide, stiff brim is good to help protect your face and neck. A
good idea is to have a dark-coloured underside to the bill in the hat you choose seeing as this will reduce the glare coming off the water. • Waterproof outer shell: Having a hat that is made out of a synthetic, breathable material is very important. The hat you choose be should keep your head high and dry from falling rain while at the same time allowing air to get to the top of you head so that you do not overheat. • Adjustable chin strap: The chin strap is a simple feature that is a necessity on any good fishing hat. Being able to keep your hat on your head even in the windiest of conditions is important. Nothing is worse than having to constantly readjust your hat while fishing just to keep it securely on your head. Leather seems to be the most comfortable choice for chin straps with a durable rawhide cinch to keep the strap tight. • Cotton twill instep: Having a cotton twill instep sewn into the lining of your hat makes wearing your hat out on a day's adventure much more comfortable and enjoyable. Secondly, this instep will serve as a sweat band for your head, keeping perspiration from getting into your eyes. • Open mesh crown/grommets with solid
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top for superior ventilation: The hat you choose has to be able to have some air exchange system or else you will overheat very quickly. Mesh crown to the sides of the hat are probably the best type of air exchange system for hats but in a heavy rain this type of system has been known to allow a little water to get through. • Fade resistant/floatable: If you are going to be spending your hard-earned dollars on a hat you want to be sure that after a few hours in the sun and rain the hat you choose will not lose its colour. The dulling of the fabric will not alter the effectiveness of the hat protecting you from the elements but in the chance that you catch a true trophy fish, you certainly want to look your best for the camera. Additionally, the use of new waterproof synthetic materials allows hats to stay afloat if you are unlucky enough to drop them into the water and not be able to get to them quickly. Hidden neck cape: Neck capes are the number one way to protect the sides of the head, ears, and neck from the harsh sun. Most quality hats will have a cape that is able to be rolled and tucked away neatly until you need it most. Fly-fishing hats come in a numerous range of sizes and styles. Owning a good quality fishing hat is an important addition to your fly fishing outfit, but what style you choose is a matter of personal choice. As long as the hat you choose covers the basics of being windproof, waterproof, and sunproof then you should be ready for any weather conditions you might encounter out on a days fishing. Best of all, purchasing a quality fishing hat is not really that much more expensive than your standard baseball cap. Of course there are other choices. Source: Internet
PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
NANTUCKET
SLEIGH RIDE
YARMOUTH, Mass. — Dave Lamoureux’s kayak, named Fortitude, must be the only one in Massachusetts registered as a motor vessel. That’s because a powerboat registration is required to get a permit to fish for tuna here. Apparently, it never occurred to the authorities that someone might be crazy enough to want to catch a bluefin while sitting in what amounts to a floating plastic chair and enjoying what Melville called a “Nantucket sleigh ride.” Since the end of July, Lamoureux has caught three bluefins this way, paddling a couple of miles off Race Point, at the tip of Provincetown, hooking a tuna and holding on, the rod clipped to a harness on his chest, while being towed at speeds up to 15 miles an hour before the fish exhausts itself. His most recent catch, on Nov. 5, was a 157-pound bluefin, a record tuna for an unassisted kayak fisherman, and a near record over all, topped only by a 183-pound halibut caught by Howard McKim, an Alas-
kan, in 2004. Reeling in a halibut, though, has been likened to hauling in a load of plywood, and some of Lamoureux’s admirers consider landing a bluefin, known for its power and ferocity, the greater feat. He is a hero at bait shops up and down Cape Cod. On fishing blogs, a few grumblers call him a dangerous idiot. Until about 10 years ago most kayak fishermen knew each other by name. Lately the sport has enjoyed a growth spurt, but it is still not recognized by the International Game Fish Association, the official record keeper for saltwater anglers. So kayakers keep their records informally and on Internet forums. There is an honor system. Some kayakers allow themselves to be towed out and back by a mother ship. Lamoureux’s record required paddling alone and bringing the fish into shore. Lamoureux is 42 and friendly, with a big smile and a ready laugh, and lives most of the year in Chicago, where he is a futures and options
trader. He also has a place in Boston and access to his parents’ summer home here. “My personality — I trend toward risk and danger,” he said last week, explaining that he used to rock climb and do extreme skiing. But kayak fishing entailed “measured risk, not being-crazy risk,” he added, and compared it to trading. “Being a trader, you like risk. You’re comfortable with it. You have to weigh the reward versus the other side, which in this case is your life.” Lamoureux’s 12-foot Heritage FeatherLite isn’t even a fishing kayak.
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Blue Fin Tuna It’s a recreational kayak he found in the family garage and modified with additional equipment, the exact nature of which he will not disclose. “I can’t be revealing all my secrets,” he said, “or else guys who are younger and in better shape will be breaking my records.” When Lamoureux climbs into his kayak, wearing a wet suit or a dry suit, he is loaded down with safety gear: life jacket, whistles, strobe lights, a signaling mirror, a compass, two GPS devices, two radios, two cellphones, and two knives, in case he is dragged too far out to sea and needs to slash the line. He hasn’t yet capsized, but Lamoureux still prepares himself psychologically to wind up in the drink. “I actually consider myself safer than the average boater because all the safety equipment is attached to my person,” he said. He also carries dive fins in case he has to swim home. “I don’t plan on calling the Coast Guard or the commercial fishermen for help,” he said. “I think that’s irresponsible.” When Lamoureux first showed up in their fishing grounds, commercial tuna fishermen figured he was lost or in distress. Now he has befriended several of them, and he will turn over a fish too big for him to manage. In August he reluctantly did this with a bluefin that eventually escaped but
that on the fishing boat’s sonar looked to be about 800 pounds. “That just broke my spirit,” he said. “They told me, ‘That fish is so big, it doesn’t even know you’re here.’ ” Two years ago, Lamoureux began kayaking for stripers and bluefish. This summer he started looping through the tuna grounds on his way home, and at the end of July he hooked a bluefin. It proved too big for his striper rig and broke his line, but made him think catching a really big fish was at least possible. Lamoureux consulted with George Lewis, a longtime mentor at Truman’s Bait and Tackle in Yarmouth, with the staff of Nelson’s Bait and Tackle in Provincetown, and with Austin Proudfoot at Goose Hummock, a shop in Orleans that coincidentally specializes in kayaks and tuna — though until Lamoureux came along, not in both at once. Proudfoot fixed Lamoureux up with Van Staal rods and Fin-Nor reels, heavy duty-spinning equipment, and came up with the idea of using frozen ballyhoo, a sort of miniature swordfish, as bait. “You wrap the beak with wire and you rig it so the tail can move; that’s the attraction,” Proudfoot said, adding, “When Dave first came in and said what he wanted, I sort of giggled and I thought, That’s impossible. Now I tell him,
‘Whatever you’re doing, you’re doing it right.’ ” Learning on the job, Lamoureux hooked 14 tuna before he finally caught one. There are five steps, he explained. First you have to hook the fish, which strikes suddenly and violently — “sort of like a raging bull,” he said. Then there’s the ride, which is the scariest part but also “the most fun thing I’ve ever done.” After that you have to fight the fish until it dies of exhaustion. This can take hours and entails steering the tuna — Lamoureux won’t say how — and controlling its speed with the drag on the reel. Bluefins are powerful enough, he said, that if given too little line, they can cause a kayak to flip end over end. When they get close enough, commercial fishermen harpoon a tuna, but Lamoureux right away realized that that would be a disaster from a kayak. “Even I’m bright enough not to do that,” he said, laughing. At the end, the fish must be attached to the kayak and towed home, which is harder than it sounds, especially if, as Lamoureux hopes one day soon, it is a 300- or 400-pounder — enough weight to drag someone under. He has that part, too, all figured out, but don’t hold your breath waiting for him to tell you how. Source: Internet
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Hey Members, the 2010
PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Penticton Flyfishers Club Elections are coming up. Come Out and VOTE
Thursday, February 4th. Old CPR Station on Hastings St. Time 7 pm.
54rd Annual BCWF Convention Wednesday, April 28th - Saturday, May 1st, 2010 Prince George, B.C. Important Dates December 31, 2009 - Resolution Submissions Due January 15, 2010 - Awards Submissions Due January 15, 2010 - Committee Reports Due January 31, 2010 - Last day for Early Bird Delegate Registration Convention Location Coast Inn of the North 770 Brunswick Street, Prince George, BC Friday Night Fundraiser and Saturday Night Awards and Game Dinner will be held at Prince George Civic Centre,
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Knots in the Making Arbor Knot (Backing to Reel) The Arbor knot is very easy to tie and is used to fasten your backing to the reel. 1. 2. 3.
Wrap the line around the arbor of your spool and tie an overhand knot around the standing line. Tie a second overhand knot on the tag end a few inches from the first. Moisten the line and the two overhand knots. Tighten the smaller knot and holding the spool in your left-hand pull on the standing line with your right hand sliding the first overhand knot against the arbor of the spool. The second overhand knot will keep this from slipping. Trim the tag end.
Albright Knot (Mono to Braided or Wire) The Albright knot is used in situations where you need to join two lines of greatly unequal diameter or of different material. Mostly used in saltwater situations, I prefer this knot for joining of fly line to backing material. Step 1. Loop the heavier line (wider diameter) and place it between your thumb and index finger of your left hand. Pass the lighter line through the formed loop leaving yourself about 8 inches. Pinch the lighter line in with the line already in your left hand. (See illustration 1) Step 2. Make approximately 10 wraps with the lighter line wrapping away from you and working from left to right. With each wrap, work your thumb and index finger along holding these wraps in place, trying not to let up any pressure on your left hand. On the 10th wrap, come around and then through the remaining loop. Taking the standing line in your right hand pull gently as you push the wraps with your left hand towards the closed loop. Alternate between the end of the lighter line and on the standing part until the wraps are against the tag end. Make sure the wraps do not go over each other and that you don't push them to far. Pull the tag tight then pull on the standing part of both lines until the knot is secure. Step 3. Finally, clip the two short pieces close to the knot.
Nail Knot (Leader to Fly Line) The Nail knot is one of the most important knots that every fly fisherman should learn. There are a few variations in the way this knot is tied. The angler can use a tube or a needle in replacement of the nail. With a little practice, this knot can be tied very quickly. Most common area for use is attaching the leader to the fly line. It can also be used to attach the fly line to the backing
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Step 1. Place a nail between the fly line and leader. Wrap the leader back towards the end of your fly line about 6 times. (See illustration 1) Step 2. Pass the end of your leader back through the loops you just made. After the leader is through, pull on both ends of the fly line and leader trying not to have the loops cross each other. Holding with fingers, remove nail. Step 3. Moisten and snug down by pulling both ends away from each other. Clip excess line and leader close to the formed knot.
Surgeon's Knot (Monofilament to Monofilament) The Surgeon's Knot is a knot also used for attaching two pieces of monofilament together. It is a very fast and easy knot to tie and is usually preferred more than the blood knot. This is a great knot for joining two pieces of monofilament that are greatly different in diameter. When you are building a tapered leader, tied correctly, this knot is generally stronger than the blood knot. Very quick and easy knot for attaching 4X-5X-6X-7X tippet to each other. You can do this one in the dark. Step 1. The main line should come in from the left and the line to be attached should come from the right. Overlap the two pieces approximately 6 or so inches. (See illustration 1) Step 2. Pinch the overlapped lines together on the left between your thumb and index finger. Do the same with the sections on the right and make a loop by crossing it over itself. Take the long and short lines that are in your right hand and pass them through the formed loop. around, and back through a second time. (See illustration 2) Step 3. Pull both pieces being held in each hand away from each other closing the knot. Moisten and pull tight. Once this not is secure you can tighten it further by pulling individual pieces. I would not recommend this knot for line over 30lbs because it will be hard to tighten and the strength of the knot will only be there if tightened all the way.
Improved Clinch Knot (Leader to Fly) The Improved Clinch knot is used for fastening the leader to the fly. If you are using over 12 Lb. test line, this is not a recommended knot. Step 1. Thread your leader tippet through the eye of the hook. Wrap the end of the leader around the standing line 5 times for lines up to 8lb test and 4 times for lines from 8-12lb test. (You can also turn the hook 5 or 4 times) Step 2. Take the tag end of the leader and pass it through the gap between the eye of the hook and the first wrap. Continue the tag end back up through the main loop just formed. Step 3. Moisten the knot with your mouth, and while holding the hook in your left-hand pull on the standing leader allowing the knot to seat tightly against the hook. Clip the excess line.
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FISHING IN IDAHO
Idaho is famous for its fishing. More than 10 world-class blue-ribbon wild trout streams, including the Henrys Fork, Silver Creek and the St. Joe River, are scattered throughout the state. Many other high-quality trout streams exist that don’t get the headlines and the crowds. Idaho’s rugged mountains contain more than 1,500 high mountain lakes with good trout fishing. Numerous large natural lakes and reservoirs provide a wide variety of fishing opportunities for warm and cold-water species. In contrast to some states, most Idaho fishing waters are located in the public domain, and are open to the public. Access is free. Family Fishing Waters In response to anglers’ requests for more family-oriented fishing opportunities and simplified rules, Fish and Game has developed Family Fishing Water regulations. In these areas there are yeararound seasons, a general six-fish limit for trout, bass, walleye and pike and no bag limit on other species. There are no length limits or tackle requirements.
Salmon and Steelhead Idaho is the only inland western state with ocean-run salmon and steelhead, and when conditions are right, the hatchery part of these runs provide an exciting fishing experience. State records are 54 pounds for salmon and 30 pounds, 2 ounces for steelhead. Idaho fishing license requirements. For a non resident you can purchase a one day license for $12.75 and each additional consecutive day is $6.00. An
PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
annual license for a non resident is $98.25. The ideal package would be the single day plus the number of days extra that you intend to fish. The Most Popular Spot to Fly Fish in Idaho
Kelly Creek is in the northern part of Idaho’s Clearwater National Forest. Like the St. Joe River just to the north, Kelly is born high in the Bitterroot Mountains on the Montana-Idaho border. Similarities between the two waters don’t end there. Both offer fine catch-and-release angling for native westslope cutthroat trout. And although the St. Joe is called a river and Kelly is dubbed a creek, the two waters are similar in size and character, especially in their roadless headwater sections. Best of all, Kelly and the neighboring St. Joe can easily be fished in the same week. Kelly was among the first Idaho rivers to go catch-and-release in the mid1970s and has developed a following, but in two midsummer trips to its upper reaches one can expect to encounter only a few other anglers. The creek and its tributaries are restricted to flies
or artificial lures with a single barbless hook, so it primarily attracts fly fishers. The lower 10 miles of Kelly are closely paralleled by a gravel road and receive moderate pressure from anglers based at the forest service campground at Kelly Forks or camped along the road. The water along the road is enticing and worth fishing if you have some time before or after a backcountry trip. There are deep, emerald pools much bigger than any you’ll find in the headwaters. You can catch a Kelly Creek cutthroat fish of 19 inches in a riffle right behind the forest service campground. In July I’ve heard that the best action is in the roadless headwaters area, but by late summer fish begin to drop downstream in search of large pools to winter in, and I’m told the roadside waters of Kelly can fish very well from late August into September. Editors Note: The BC Ministry of the Environment provides just $13 million from its $239 million budget for Fish and Wildlife work while Idaho has over $77 million for it’s Fish and Wildlife. See chart below. Source is the Internet.
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Aquatic Species at Risk - Speckled Dace
At a glance Found only in a small section of the Kettle and Granby rivers, Canada is the northern limit of the speckled dace’s distribution. Scientists believe that, like the Salish sucker, the speckled dace was one of the first fish to re-colonize rivers in British Columbia following the ice age. In 1977, when the dace’s habitat was last sampled, only approximately 400 fish were collected. Few of the fish caught were adults suggesting that speckled dace mortality may be high. However, not enough data is available to determine accurately whether the population is self-sustaining or in decline. The speckled dace is threatened by its limited habitat and by seasonal flooding.
About the speckled dace A member of the carp family, not much is known about speckled dace reproduction in Canada. Scientists believe that spawning occurs once a year from June through August in fish older than two years. During breeding, many males often accompany a single female who broadcasts adhesive eggs over the gravelly streambed. Each female produces between 200 and 500 eggs. Speckled dace are omnivorous, that is they feed on plants and animals. The fish also eat filamentous algae and other plant material, bottomdwelling aquatic insects and zooplankton.
How to recognize a speckled dace Speckled dace have moderately elongated and rounded bodies with flat bellies. The fish is grey-brown or olive in colour with dark speckles that often obscure the dark lateral stripe. The dace’s lower parts are yellowish-white. The young have strong lateral bands that are absent in the mottled adults. During spawning, males develop reddish lips, snout, and fin bases. In Canada, the speckled dace reaches lengths of between five and six centimeters.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services (note: this image is of the Clover Valley speckled dace)
Where the speckled dace lives In British Columbia, adult speckled dace are found in shallow waters with slow to moderately strong current. The fish seem to prefer mountain streams with stony beds that are cleaned by spring flood-waters. Young dace are generally found among polished stones at the river’s edge where the current is slower and the water shallower.
Why it’s at risk The British Columbia population of speckled dace is thought to be limited by seasonal flooding and a lack of appropriate habitat.
What’s being done The speckled dace is designated as endangered and protected under the Species at Risk Act (SARA). The fish’s habitat is also protected under the federal Fisheries Act.
What can you do? Speckled dace will get the protection they need only if all Canadians work together to reduce threats. Find out more about the speckled dace and be aware of man-made threats. Do your best to reduce these threats wherever possible to better protect the dace’s critical habitat. Get involved with the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk (HSP) or another conservation organization. Background information provided by Environment Canada in March 2004.
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Calgary
BASS ProShop (Outdoor World) is a privately held sports equipment and outdoor recreation goods store headquartered in Springfield, Missouri. The original Outdoor World store, referred to as the "Grand Daddy" is located at the corner of Sunshine and Campbell in Springfield. Bass Pro Shops rings up an estimated $1.9 billion in sales in fifty-four large retail stores in the United States, one in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, and one near Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It also owns and operates subsidiaries such as Tracker Marine Group, Big Cedar Lodge, RedHead, XPS, American Rod and Gun, White River Fly Shop and restaurants Islamorada Fish Company, Hemingway's Blue Water Cafe, Uncle Buck's Fishbowl and Grill, and Riverside Inn. Bass Pro Shops is known for a large selection of hunting, fishing, and other outdoor gear. Its major competitors in the U.S. include many other sporting goods retailers such as Cabela's and Dick's Sporting Goods. While Bass Pro operates some stores with "Sportsman's Warehouse" as part of the name, the company is not affiliated with the retailer simply known as Sportsman's Warehouse. The Calgary store offers 150,000 square feet of outdoor excitement including the area's largest selection of quality gear for fishing, hunting, camping, boating and marine. Much more than a hunting and fishing store, however, Bass Pro Shops also offers equipment for hiking, backpacking, outdoor cooking and more. Shoppers will find outdoor apparel for men, women and children, along with a fine selection of outdoor, casual and athletic footwear. A gift and nature centre serves up a wide variety of outdoor-related items from lamps and dishes to bird feeders and furniture. Known for bringing the outdoors indoors, a typical Bass Pro Shops retail store features over 3,500 area antiques and artifacts, up to 400 trophy fish and wildlife mounts and many grand murals depicting scenes reminiscent of the area making it a true destination experience.
Editors Note: I was visiting my daughter and her family in Airdrie during the Xmas Holidays and decided to take a look at the much talked about Bass Pro Shop store. First I can say its enormous and there is everything in it that an outdoors person could want or imagine. While I browsed all the many items I did notice that prices were pretty much in line with what we are paying at our local shops including the fly fishing gear. So not much in the way of a price advantage. There was though, a lot to see and experience. There is hunting equipment including archery to no end. There is also an archery range indoors to try out. Clothing of all sorts including women’s outdoor wear, and of course children’s clothing. There is a Marine centre with all the latest technology as well as boats, all in doors. They have a specific area set aside for fly fishing but as mentioned I took a hard look at the prices and there was nothing there that was a deal so shop local and save the drive. Of note though this style of big box store will impact the Calgary area shops with out question, which is a shame. The convenience of getting it all under one roof certainly is appealing. Did I buy anything?? Absolutely nothing. But it was fun going through the store to see all of the animal mounts and artifacts. Store Location
Head north on Hwy 2 ouot of Calgary (Deerfoot Trail) until just short of Balzac. The mall the store is in is called Cross Iron and Bass ProShop Outdoor World can be seen from the freeway.
112-261055 Cross Iron Blvd Rocky View , AB T4A0G3 Phone: 403 592 3900 GPS Coordinates: 51.200377ºN, 113.996308ºW (WGS84/NAD83)
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Welcome to
Postill Lake Lodge Fishing Resort Enjoy year-round vacations at Postill Lake, in the beautiful Okanagan of British Columbia, between Kelowna and Vernon. Postill Lake Lodge Fishing Resort offers comfortable accommodations in new and updated lakefront cabins equipped with housekeeping facilities, and campsites. And, the resort is open for family vacations. In the spring we have the most fabulous fly fishing you can ask for, with a choice of six lakes. Bring in those famous BC fighting Rainbow trout or Speckled Brook trout for a tantalizing meal. The Okanagan region of British Columbia is renowned for sunny summers, and Postill Lake Lodge Fishing Resort offers a variety of outdoor activities: fishing, swimming, boating, hiking on beautiful nature trails, a playground for children, and outer lakes, one with accommodations provided in a fully equipped rustic cabin. Postill Lake Lodge Fishing Resort offers you accommodations in comfortable lakefront cottages and cabins, plus lakefront or upper campsites, motor and boat rentals and family fun including swimming, nature trails and mountain biking. Both a family resort and fly fishing resort, fishermen enjoy a choice of six excellent trout fly fishing lakes: Postill, Twin Lakes, Meadow Lake, South Lake, Roddy and Heron. All cabins at our resort are equipped with housekeeping facilities, with outhouses for each cabin, plus a central showerhouse complete with flush toilets. Some cabins have cold running water and toilets. Cottages are fully self - contained with hot & cold running water, toilets, showers and fridges. Our Lodge offers you the sights of many different kinds of animal skins, heads and antlers, plus some antiques which we hope that you have the opportunity of seeing. Lucky for us we are a considerable distance from the Okanagan Mountain Park Forest Fire area, so you will still be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Postill Lake area. The turn off to Postill Lake is located between Kelowna and Vernon in the beautiful Okanagan region of British Columbia. Postill Lake Lodge 11950 Postill Lake Road Kelowna, British Columbia Canada, V1P 1A2
Main Lodge
Toll Free: 1-877-623-6982 Tel: 1-250-212-0579 E-mail: postilllake@xplornet.com
One of Many Cabins
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
2010 FISHOUTS Members we need fishout ideas and dates for 2010
Link Lake May 28, 29& 30
Salmon Lake ????
Darke Lake ??
Early May date to be arranged
Fish Out Ideas are Required for 2010
Idelback Lake ???
Headwater Lake
Ripley and Madden Lakes early May- Date to be arranged
Kettle River July every weekend
Leighton Lake and Tunkwa Lake ?????
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
Apache Trout A UNIQUE, NATIVE FISH
The Apache trout (Oncorhynchus apache) is one of only two trout native to Arizona, the other being the Gila trout (Oncorhynchus gilae). It is officially designated as Arizona's state fish, and was historically found only in the headwaters of the White, Black and Little Colorado Rivers above 5,900-feet elevation in east-central Arizona. Apache trout have an olive-yellow body, with a yellow or golden belly. Moderatesized black spots are spaced evenly across the body, head and fins. Fins are tipped with a white or orange color. Two black spots are located horizontally on the eye fore and aft of the pupil, creating a black band through the eye. They can grow to over 20 inches in length and weight up to 5 pounds in hatcheries and lakes; however, most wild Apache trout are less than 9 inches in length, a reflection of the small stream habitats where they live. RETURN OF AN ARIZONA NATIVE Once nearing extinction, the Apache trout is now return-
ing to its place in the legacy of Arizona’s unique, native fish resources. Apache trout have been restored to much of their historic range in the White Mountains after decades of cooperative protection and recovery efforts. Because the species has recovered sufficiently, anglers can now fish for them in designated state waters or on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. This native trout is an important part of Arizona’s natural heritage, and is a recreational and economic asset to the state. The Apache trout is found nowhere else in the world.
THE THREAT Apache trout were once abundant in White Mountains in the late 1800s. Historic photos and accounts show early settlers harvesting hundreds of Apache trout in a single trip. In the early 1900s, state and federal wildlife agencies began stocking non-native trout species into the streams and lakes of the White Mountains to increase fishing opportunities for Arizona’s fast-growing population. Officials believed they were addressing the problem of over-fishing in Apache trout streams and did not realize these supplemental stockings would become one of the greatest threats to Apache trout, nearly wiping them out. Nonnative trout – rainbow, brook, cutthroat, and brown – out-compete Apache trout for limited food and cover, and prey upon young native trout. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are also genetically similar and cross-breed with Apache trout, compromising the genetic purity of each species. Source: Arizonia internet
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Picture Gallery
PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
= Penticton Creek In Rough Shape
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PENTICTON FLYFISHERS
CLASSIFIEDS
CALENDAR of EVENTS
For Sale—15 ft Sage graphite Spey rod, line weight 10, 8 3/4 oz, 4 piece, used only ten times. Call Ken Cochrane 250-860-9128 or email at kencochrane@shaw.ca
Jan 7—General meeting at the Old CPR Station on Hastings St. Time 7 pm. Jan 14—Fly tying night. Time 7 pm. Bring your tying gear or come and watch. Time 7 pm.
For Sale—Sharps "SCOTTIE", a 4" Perfect style Salmon reel. Has almost all of original lead finish, Bronze line guard, slightly filed foot $400.00
Jan 20—Executive Meeting at Phil Rogers house. Time 7 pm.
3 1/2" Hardy Perfect, no line guard, long alloy foot, Ivorine handle, with a Hardy drawstring bag. An early model which, unfortunately, has been refinished. 2 small cracks, one on a pillar the other close by on the frame. They should not affect the reel for fishing. $550.00
Feb 04—General meeting and AGM. Elections for the 2010 Executive and Directors following the General Meeting. You need to have your 2010 membership dues paid in order to vote in the election.
Hardy Marquis Salmon #1 Saltwater with twin handles, slight paint loss around rim only, Hardy case $400.00 Hardy Salmon #1 spare spool (Not a saltwater spool) $100.00 Hardy St. John Some paint loss around rim. $250.00 Hardy Marquis 8/9 spare spool all grey model $65.00
www.bcfff.bc.ca
Hardy "Wathne Collection" #8 Numbered edition #248 & spare spool Basically same reel as a Golden Prince except for finish, Grey frame, Silver spool. Cases for both. Reel and spool are in as new" condition. I do not think they have ever been fished. $330.00 Hardy Perfect 3 7/8" leaded finish straight line writing no line guard. $330.00
www.pentictonflyfishers.ca
Call Ken Baker 250-493-2926 or email to kbbaker@telus.net
For Sale—John Watt's 12 ft Harbour Craft boat $800 35 lb thrust Motor Guide electric motor. Ph 250-493-0451
www.bcwf.bc.ca
www.troutwaters.ca
Tying and Fishing Techniques
Sculpins Sculpins are small bottom dwelling fish that inhabit most trout streams. There are dozens of fresh water species in North America. Size and colour varies by specie and habitat. Mature freshwater Sculpins are usually from 1 1/2" to 4" in length and range through most of the shades of tan, brown and olive. Sculpins have large flat heads. The eyes are set rather close together on top of the skull. Body conformation is long and narrow. All of the fins, including the tail are rounded. The pectoral fins are unusually large. Body coloration is dappled to camouflage with the streambed. Sculpins are chameleonlike and change colour quickly to match their surroundings. Sculpins do not have air bladders, so they are confined to the bottom. Here they hunt and hide in near lizard-like fashion. They eat a variety of aquatic organisms, but are specifically designed to raid other fish's redds. They enjoy wriggling down between the stones to capture eggs and fry. The result is kind of like the lion/hyena wars. Trout probably grow up hating Sculpins. Some
larger trout become Sculpin killers and will often eat them. In our region larger individuals of cutthroat, brown trout, rainbow trout and bull trout will eat Sculpins. Both summer and winter steelhead have been known to dine on fillet of Sculpin.
tend to do the trick just fine. Use of mottled materials such as turkey quill is a great way to achieve that natural look. Finally to tie the desired large broad heads, the use of spun deer hair or ram's wool is most common.
The basics of sculpin tying are simple. The pattern should always be weighted, with a large flat head and natural colours. Depending on the region, sculpins range from a brownish tan color, all the way to dark olive tones which makes for a very particular colour selection. Sculpins are not very "shiny" minnows, so the use of mylar, or other reflective materials is not necessary. A large collar or protruding feathers imitating the large fins of the sculpin are constants. Another important factor is size. Across North America Sculpins grow to 3.5" on average however I have captured a few larger specimens topping the 5" range. Streamer 2x - 3x hooks, size 2 to 8
Bruce Turnbull Bruce Turnbull
The Penticton Flyfishers meet the first Thursday of every month except July and August when we meet at nearby fishouts. Club meetings begin at 7 pm at the “OLD CPR� Train Station on Hastings St., and everyone is welcome. Membership costs $40 per year (Junior membership is free) and includes membership in the B.C. Federation of Fly Fishers, the B.C. Wildlife Federation, The Federation of Fly Fishers (International), and the Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance (OSCA). The club is registered as a society and its function is to promote the sport of fly fishing, to educate, and to conserve and protect the environment. The club is actively involved in conservation projects throughout the Okanagan and surrounding areas. If you would like more information about the club, its membership, projects and programs, please call any member of the Executive (see inside front cover).