Pro Tips

Freshwater Fishing

July 26, 2010
Rene' Harrop
At Scott we believe in rod design through real-world application and real-world testing, what you may not know is that we send off our employees for time on the water testing as well. Below you'll find an account of the time Scott's Ian Crabtree spent on the Henry's Fork with Rene' Harrop and a report card that was sent to Scott's President and rod designer Jim Bartschi.

Many thanks to Rene' for donating his time with Ian and his gracious hospitality, also thanks to Bonnie Harrop and Masa Katsumata for the accompanying photography.

 
 
Hello Jimmy,

In keeping with your directive, young Ian Crabtree was greeted at the hospitality pool by a gallery completely qualified to administer the formal indoctrination ceremony for rookies on the Henry's Fork.
 
Comprised of TroutHunter partners Jon Stiehl, Rich and Millie Paini, Scott prostaffers Masa Katsumata, Brandon Prince, and Rene' Harrop, and a dozen or so local critics, the indoctrination committee administered the ceremonial toast of a half dozen Natty lights to the young admittee as he prepared to make his first cast to a wiley Henry's Fork rainbow.
 
Ian immediately impressed the group by wading into an area where the larger fish prefer to feed and proceeded to fool a ten inch rainbow on the first drift of a Flav Spinner. It was obvious that he did not understand the one point penalty for fishing to a trout of inferior size, but I think he got it that chasing the larger players from the spot he chose to reach the little guy was probably a bad idea. To Ian's credit, he endured the ridicule of both blunders with only a minor reddening of the ears.


 
Another dozen Natty lights and probably a shot or two at the TroutHunter Bar would put the rookie in prime condition to face the merciless cruisers of the Millionaire's Pool the following morning. As an added precaution, we made certain that Ian would not be the victim of too much sleep by putting him in the Log jam which, as you know, is situated adjacent to the bar.
 
Joined by Rich, Jon, Masa, and myself, Ian made a quick impression by sticking the first big cruiser he spotted on about the second or third cast of the first full day. Predictably, however, he farmed the fish after the first good power run, and there would be no redemption for the remainder of the morning.
 
Early evening on the same day found us about a half mile down from the top of the Ranch where reports of reliable Flav activity had Ian punped up at the prospect of getting that first big rainbow into the net. The first hour or two passed with only a couple of shots at sporadically rising fish. As the temperature began to drop and rain began to fall from a now overcast sky, big trout began to show in increasing numbers throughout a long stretch of gently riffled water. As can happen in such conditions, heavy numbers of Flav duns began to carpet the water, and it was at this point that Ian realized he had left his rain jacket in Masa's truck. Temporarily relieved from his coaching duties, and well protected from a soaking, Masa proceeded to engage several big Flav feeders while Ian made the mile long round trip hike to retrieve his rain jacket.
 
Not to be discouraged at the loss of forty five minutes of prime fishing opportunity, the young guy showed potential in achieving several solid eats from among more than a dozen sizable players. Sadly, however, Ian fell victim to a mistimed hookset on every acceptance of the fly which left him talking mainly to himself as we left the water under a strong wind that brought a premature end to the activity.
 
The wind subsided about thirty minutes later as we reached our vehicles at the upper parking lot. With an hour and a half of daylight remaining, Masa suggested a quick run down to Wood Road 16 to finish off the first day. Pronouncing himself "spent", Ian conceded victory to the fish and we again allowed the young spinner to retreat to the bar and more Nattys as consolation for his effort.
 
Expounding on the inherent tendency for many of the larger rainbows to move about during surface feeding activity, Ian commented on how he had envisioned fishing the Henry's Fork to include mostly stationary fish feeding rythmically on easily identified insects. And in this regard, he would get his wish the next day. What he could not know, however, was that he had already experienced the easiest fishing he would find on his first visit to the world's most challenging trout stream.


 
The gravel bar below Piney Point, which you know well, was the setting for Ian's final morning on the river. The cool, wet night had delayed the usual morning spinner fall to around 11:00 a.m. which was about an hour after we arrived at this preferred spot. With Masa and I both coaching from the bank, Ian moved into position below several large fish that finned lazily in a generally straight line along a rather sharp drop off between thin and deeper water.
 
For more than an hour, the target trout feasted on a menu of spinners that included Flavs and PMDs with a few Green and Brown Drakes thrown in as well. With little or no favorable response from the preoccupied fish, Ian alternated between changing fly patterns and casting positions as the heavy spinner fall ran it's course. Confidence if not enthusiasm began to wane as the feeding activity began to fade. The sense of urgency was not aided by a pair of lady anglers in the company of TroutHunter guide Marty Reed who hooked two very impressive fish as they drifted by on the far side of the river. Finally, as will sometimes happen in the eleventh hour, a minor miracle happened for our young guest as he finally lifted his rod to the weight of a trout validated presentation which occured at the end of several hundred fruitless casts. An excited shout and waving of arms from Masa brought my attention to the action a few hundred feet downstream from where I had positioned myself to dissuade interference from a rather unruly group of recreational floaters bearing down on us from upstream. But the excitment was again short lived as the hard earned fish spit the fly after less than a minute of connection to our young hero from Colorado. Deflated if not defeated, Ian bravely suppressed the disappointment of another lost prize as the end of his final day crept ever nearer.




 
 Relocating about a mile downstream, I felt quite confident that Ian's quest for a big rainbow could be realized in water that had produced amazing results for me only a week earlier. But success was not to be on this occasion as a steep increase in flow from Island Park dam sent a surge of debris laden water that canceled what could been an action packed finale to Ian's first visit to the Henry's Fork. The minor opportunity that survived the sudden disruptive increase in water level was further shortened by another heavy rainstorm and wind that again put an early end to a promising Flav hatch. By now, however, Ian had willingly resigned himself to the solace of Natty lights which had become the only reliable aspect of his pilgrimge. Ian left the Henry's fork with an empty score sheet but also a promise to return on the first opportunity that presents itself, and that is what is most important. You are only a rookie once my friend.
 
Performance Report for Ian Crabtree
Henry's Fork July 2010
Submitted by Rene' Harrop
 
Fundamental Presentation Skill    B
Insect Recognition  C
Selection of Casting Position  C+
Wading and Approach Skills  B
Drag Management  C-
Fly Box Efficiency  D-
Enthusiasm and Determination  A
Sense of Humor  A
Appreciation for Cheap Beer  A
 
 
Thank you,
 
Rene' Harrop
 
May 5, 2010
Rene' Harrop
Observing the Henry’s Fork through the winter of 2009/2010 has been vastly different from the previous two years. Comparatively modest snowfall and mild temperatures provided unusual comfort to all river dependent creatures both aquatic and otherwise.

Wintering whitetail deer were not forced to concentrate in the river corridor for forage as in years past, and I have yet to see a single casualty of the cold season. Without severe icing influencing their survival, Trumpeter Swans and other waterfowl were free to access the entire length of the river thereby avoiding crowding and over harvesting of aquatic vegetation. Vulnerable mammals like muskrat also benefit from less severe conditions, and spring numbers of these gentle creatures attest to an easier life during the past winter.

Lower snow levels have permitted the observation of many spawning areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach in typical early spring conditions. Reproductive activity in these key locations is perhaps the best indicator of trout populations separate from actually fishing. Impressive is the best word to describe the numbers and individual size of spawning rainbows observed from early March through the end of April. The volume of predatory activity from Bald Eagle, Osprey, Loons, and river Otter might be troubling to some but it takes a strong fishery to attract and support such intense interest. Therefore, it seems logical to consider these wild consumers as positive indicators of a very healthy population of trout.

Mild weather aided by easier access to the water enabled anglers to get an earlier start on waters open to year round fishing on the ‘Fork. Early March found trout rising consistently to abundant hatches of midges and baetis, and this trend continued for more than six weeks. Clearly evident was a higher percentage of brown trout that were coming to a dry fly which indicates a strengthening of this relatively new resident of the lower Henry’s Fork.

Caddis and March Brown mayflies began to appear almost simultaneously during the third week of April bringing with them a nearly unbearable distraction for the heavily burdened fly tyer only thirty days out from the beginning of the general fishing season. Cool temperatures with weekly precipitation are perfect weather ingredients for heavy hatches and rising trout, and this has been the pattern since late March. Also positive in this trend is a strong contribution in the high country to a weaker than usual snow pack.

Key in the outlook for 2010 is winter flows from Island Park Reservoir that exceed anything we have seen on the Henry’s Fork since the late 1990’s. With flows running from 350 to 400 cfs during the coldest months of December, January, and February, a much higher percentage of young trout will survive than in years when winter flows were considerably lower. Large numbers of small trout now concentrated along the edges of the river confirm a continuing trend of improved winter survival that can be largely attributed to the efforts of the Henry’s Fork Foundation. Working in close cooperation with irrigation officials who control the release of water from the Island Park Reservoir, HFF personnel have succeeded in gaining unprecedented consideration for trout in the management of winter flows on the Henry’s Fork.

Aquatic insects that share environmental needs similar to trout are also benefiting from better wintering conditions. Strong hatches and an abundance of rising trout have persisted through the early season and I see little reason to expect this to change as the season progresses.

Concerns for a lower than average snow pack can be alleviated to a considerable extent by a large carryover in Island Park Reservoir that now approaches 100% of capacity. Cool temperatures and above normal precipitation beginning in late March and continuing through April have delayed spring snow melt and irrigation demand thereby improving the water outlook as well. More rain and perhaps even snow dominate the forecast as April draws to a close, and this is bad news only to golfers.

Winter in the adjoining states of Montana and Wyoming has been similar to what has been experienced in Idaho. Anglers who plan to visit the Yellowstone region should not expect to find rivers swollen by heavy runoff in late May and June as has been the case in the past two years, although this could change with continued cool temperatures and abundant precipitation.

2009 on the Henry’s Fork was the best in recent memory with abundant hatches and trout of impressive size and numbers. Based upon customary indicators, it is reasonable to expect fishing in 2010 to equal or even exceed what most fly fishers experienced last year. 
 
Rene’ Harrop       
 
November 13, 2009
Rene' Harrop
     There is something bordering on sinister when a half dozen top Henry’s fork guides are joined by still water master Gareth Jones from Wales and one of Japan’s most aggressive and effective anglers, Masa Katsumata for a four day assault on a single body of water. But this was the picture in late October on one of the world’s most renowned still water fisheries.



     Located near the Continental Divide in eastern Idaho, Henry’s lake is the headwater for the equally famous Henry’s Fork of the Snake. Though at times fickle, Henry’s Lake is known for its heavy population of especially large cutthroat, brook trout, and cutt bow hybrids. Hungry for some personal fishing and weary of squinting at tiny Baetis and Midges, the staff members of TroutHunter were also anticipating the opportunity to learn from one of Europe’s most accomplished authorities on still water trout. A Henry’s fork regular despite its distance from his homeland, Masa was even more pumped up than usual for his first shot at the lake known as Henry. While Masa and Gareth had shared numerous days on various waters around the world, this would be Masa’s first opportunity to watch Gareth apply his specialized still water strategies.



     There are times when the lake gets hot and everyone seems to be catching fish. This is how things began on the first day on Henry’s when the weather was reasonably comfortable and the trout unusually charitable. Whether fishing from a boat in open water or wading the edges, fishing was fast and furious with no one from the group landing fewer than twenty fish ranging from eighteen to twenty four inches in size.


 
     Limited by a stiff breeze on the second day, boat fishing gave way to wading the shallows along sheltered stretches of the shoreline. Despite this limitation, the catch rate was at least equal to the previous day or even higher. Double hookups were common and Masa stayed busy running from angler to angler with his camera. Leeches, Scuds, and big Chironomids fished on slow intermediate lines were the fly order of the day, and no single pattern seemed outstanding. Though outdistanced to some extent by our Welsh friend, we locals were beginning to think we might be something close to Gareth’s equal, at least on this particular lake. That would change abruptly, however, on the third day.



     With more than one hangover following the season end party at TroutHunter Bar and Grill the night before, the group arrived at the lake to find twenty feet of ice rimming the edge. While essentially calm, the temperature was at least twenty degrees colder than during the first two days. As if iced guides and numb fingers were not complication enough, the fish seemed to have developed lock jaw overnight. And it was then that Gareth’s still water skills truly began to shine.


 
     While no one went fishless, takes became few and far between for the locals who continued to apply the same techniques that had produced so well during the carnage of the previous two days. However, pride eventually gave way to practicality as Gareth demonstrated clear superiority in dealing with the radical change in weather and trout behavior. Generous to a fault, Gareth shared his personally tied flies and helpful tips that allowed everyone to improve upon their initial results. By days end, we had accumulated a respectable tally, especially when you consider that we saw no one outside our group land a single fish that day.



     Temperatures improved on the final day but a pesky wind again kept us mostly confined to wading the shoreline. Unfortunately, however, the fish failed to return to the voracious feeding activity that made the first two days so exciting. With a new set of problems to face due to an unfavorable wind direction and discolored water we again turned to Gareth for solutions. Fly adjustment and depth changes soon had us back into business although the catch rate continued to be comparatively low. On the bright side, however, the day produced two big hybrids of more than five pounds and a real giant was lost early that morning before wind forced the boats from open water. The average size improved as well with only a few fish smaller than twenty inches taken.



     The vagaries of autumn weather in the high country were manifested by a fierce blizzard overnight but fortunately the roads were clear by noon the following day when Gareth and Masa were scheduled to depart for home. Though their respective flights exceeded 5,000 miles, I’m sure they both carried smiles along with fond memories of a very special lake for the entire distance.
 
Rene’ Harrop 
 
July 28, 2009
Rene' Harrop
While easy fishing is seldom associated with the Henry’s Fork, a month long period beginning in mid June produced something that came pretty close.



Green, Brown, and Gray Drakes are all size twelve or larger and the effect they have on trout is quite different than the usual insect fare on the Henry’s Fork. The appearance of any one of the three is an event to be savored but when they are hatching simultaneously, it can be almost more than one can bear.
 
Green Drakes are mostly a morning affair while Brown Drakes usually appear at around dusk. When combined with the Gray variety that can be found from late morning until dark, this impressive trio represents as much as a twelve hour window of what can seem almost suicidal behavior on the part of the trout.



 
For angler and river guide alike, the days become a frantic scramble from one location to another, and the distance between hot spots vary as much as forty miles. Deserving or otherwise, everyone seems to be catching trout of a size that normally would be considered an impressive accomplishment by even the most experienced veteran. Forgotten are the days when anything short of perfection in tackle or talent is met with utter disdain by the snooty rainbows and browns of the upper and lower Henry’s Fork. Reality has a way of coming around, however, and that is where we are right now.



 
It is amazing how small a size 14 Flav or Callibaetis can seem when you have become accustomed to fishing flies that are several sizes larger. PMDs in size 18 and the even smaller Tricos become almost invisible while abrupt adjustments are forced upon Drake spoiled anglers. But the river is much quieter now, and the big trout are still there.
 
Most of those whom only a few days ago, were celebrating the bounty of the Henry’s Fork are now off chasing Golden Stones and Salmon Flies on the Madison or Yellowstone. And while fishing here has resumed its normal demanding ways, it is still a fine time to be on the river. Hunting big trout along the open banks is now less likely to be disturbed by human competition, and the quiet is undoubtedly enjoyed equally by both angler and trout. Maybe I don’t miss the Drakes so much after all. 
 
 
Rene’ Harrop
Island Park, Idaho

 
April 29, 2009
Rene' Harrop

As the original fair weather fisherman, the Osprey’s autumn departure from the Henry’s Fork warns of winter’s arrival. Always the first to leave with the approach of cold weather, Osprey do not return until winter storms become a memory and the hatches of spring bring trout into a position of availability.

 As of tax day 2009, all of the nests along the lower river are occupied and Osprey have joined trout hunters of the human variety in search of rising fish. Baetis, March Browns, and Skwallas are the current fare, and caddis are due at any time.

 As the water begins to rise from an abundant snow pack, we are seeing signs of an early appearance of Salmon Flies. The giant nymphs are easily found in significant numbers a short distance from the edge of the river. With this indicator, many of the Henry’s Fork guides are loading their fly boxes with dry and subsurface patterns in preparation for the Salmon Fly action that could start as early as May 15.

 Rainbow activity on the spawning beds indicates excellent numbers of mature fish. And as this ritual nears completion, hungry trout recover depleted strength by feeding voraciously on spring’s bounty of early and diversified hatches. It is a great time to be alive on the Henry’s Fork.

Rene’ Harrop


Baetis CDC Thorax


Hook:   TMC 100 Size 18-22

Thread:   Tan 8/0

Tail:  Whiting Coq de Leon

Abdomen:   BWO TroutHunter Goose Biot

Wing:  Natural or dyed Blue Dun TroutHunter CDC

Thorax:  BWO TroutHunter Pro Dubbing

Hackle:   Whiting Grizzly dyed Dun-Trimmed to a wide “V” on bottom.


 
February 16, 2009
Rene' Harrop
For more than a decade, members of the scientific community have attributed drought related trout mortality to inadequate water flows. If this assumption is correct, anglers should expect to see considerably improved trout numbers in
the coldest months, and severe icing is less likely to occur when flows exceed 300 cfs. Logically, hatch producing insects will also benefit from these improved winter conditions.
 
Combined with a nearly full reservoir, an adequate snow pack will likely produce spring flows that are similar to last year. Higher levels in late May created ideal conditions for the salmon fly hatch, and the resulting fishing for big trout was the best in recent memory.
 
Higher water levels should also encourage greater dispersal of trout below Box Canyon from Last Chance Run on through Harriman and the Pine Haven stretch.
 
Upstream from St. Anthony, the lower Henry’s Fork has been spared from severe icing that marked last year’s extended winter. Access to the river, including boat launching facilities, should not be delayed beyond mid March which is at least a month earlier than last year. I expect to be fishing Midges and the first Baetis hatches by that time as well.
 
While there is guess work in any prediction, it is extremely comforting to see the positive signs that have been missing during so many winters of the recent past. Water is the gift of life to our fishery and 2009 appears to be the recipient of this vital necessity.
 
Rene’ Harrop    
 
February 9, 2009
Rene' Harrop
In the proper season, my thoughts and attention are dominated by the big rainbows of the upper Henry’s Fork where copious hatches of great diversity dictate the refined application of a 3 or 4 weight rod. The constant disciplines of patience, concentration, and determination come into full play when the engagement involves long leaders and often tiny dry flies. But while I enjoy the intensity of this kind of fishing above all other aspects of the sport there comes a time when the distraction of a completely different game takes temporary control over my time on the water.
 
For several decades, my appetite for chasing fall runs of over size brown trout was satiated only on waters of considerable distance from my home. But in the years following their introduction in the mid 1970’s, brown trout have become a solid factor in the Henry’s Fork fishery below the massive Mesa Falls. A giant brown in excess of 25 pounds taken last year above Ashton Dam verifies the lower Fork as trophy water for this relatively new inhabitant. But while nothing I have taken thus far is even close to this record size specimen, autumn streamer fishing for sizable browns lies virtually at my door step.
 
The brown trout run has usually been underway for several weeks by the time we have returned to our winter home in St. Anthony. Early November finds me wading a stretch of the Henry’s Fork that is roughly double the size of its upper reaches in Island Park, forty miles upstream. I rely on a weighted fly to achieve needed depth rather than resorting to a sinking line, and prefer a double taper for its mending ability when swimming the streamer through likely lies.
 
My favorite fall streamer pattern for Henry’s Fork browns is a Black Leech tied with an orange head and Silver Dazzle Eyes added for weight. Palmered black hackle secured with copper wire over black chenille completes the body of the fly, and the tail is black marabou with a few strands of Crystal Flash.
 
Periods of low light during morning and evening hours are most productive although an overcast day can keep the fish active throughout the day. The brown trout run on the Henry’s Fork coincides with the final days of fall Baetis which joins with Midges in providing an option when streamer fishing is slow.
 
January 29, 2009
Rick Kustich
Sitting on the ground, I was physically and mentally spent. Seriously depleted of electrolytes, food, and water, nearly every muscle in my body was sore and stiff as if I had just run a marathon or participated in some sort of iron man competition. Though not quite so extreme, the day’s ordeal was close. I had just completed eleven straight hours of wielding a nine weight rod, a four hundred grain sink-tip, and a ten inch long fly in search of the most elusive of all freshwater game fish ─ the muskellunge. The left side of my body was as worn out from repeatedly stripping the fly as my right side was from casting it. In truth, I did take about seven minutes for lunch while traveling from one likely spot to another and about thirty seconds to drink some water on a few other occasions. But when it comes to chasing musky, especially with a fly rod, a full commitment is essential.
 
Esox masquinongy is historically known as “the fish of ten thousand casts.” Positioned on top of the food pyramid, it is only natural that the number of musky in a given body of water will be much less than any other species. Fishing pressure from the bygone glory days of past decades with low minimum sizes and high kill limits as well as reductions in suitable spawning habitat took their toll on historic musky populations. Add these factors to a musky’s keen hunting skills and arrogant swagger that allow it to selectively feed on its own timetable with discerning caution, and one can easily accept that its reputation as an aloof, cunning predator is well founded.
 
But with enlightened management practices that include an expanded catch and release ethic among many anglers, there is greater opportunity for a musky encounter today than in past years. Also, vast technological advancements in equipment along with a better understanding of musky habits have more than increased the odds for anglers, especially for those casting fly rods. But even with this encouraging news, catching a musky is still not easy. However, it might be time to adjust the musky slogan for the twenty-first century ─ something like “the fish of nine thousand, nine hundred casts.”
 
Of course, do not ask my friend Rob McCormick about the subject. His first time ever fly fishing for musky occurred one June day on my boat. He hooked and landed an impressive post-spawn female within the first hour. To him the musky is “the fish of ten casts.” But to put things in perspective he also hooked and landed a tarpon the very first time he cast to one.
 
Growing up on the Niagara River, I have always been intrigued by musky. I can still recall photos when I was a young boy of the lunkers caught by adult friends and family. A taxidermy mount in the local fishing club probably had the greatest impact. The fish was so large that it appeared a full-grown man could fit half his leg inside its gaping mouth. I was amazed, and even a little scared, that this leviathan came from the waters so near my home. I knew then that I wanted to catch one, but it would be years before I developed the skill and patience to even have a chance.
 
Despite the fascination and nearby availability, I never became a full-blown musky fisherman. My love for fly fishing and all its many facets got in the way. True musky anglers have a one track mind. Most fish for little or nothing else the entire fishing season. But that’s all right. Throughout the past many years I have found a way to combine my passion for fly fishing with my childhood captivation with old Mr. Esox. And since I have always been a bit of a challenge junkie, goals like catching a particular species or size fish with a certain technique has been the best approach to continually keep my fly fishing enthusiasm fresh ─ always raising the bar. After fishing for musky with a fly for more than fifteen years I am quite certain that the bar does not go any higher.
 
Muskellunge are native to the Northeast and upper Midwest of North America. Stocking programs have also spread their distribution southward past the historical range. Actually, until I studied a map of musky distribution, I never realized that the species occupied so many of the continent’s lakes and rivers. Thus, opportunities to fish for the species with a fly rod are more readily available to millions of anglers than one would think.
 
I recently read an article that described the muskellunge as the “water wolf.” When comparing teeth, the parallel is quite apparent. Musky have a frightening mouthful of them ─ some for cutting and others for gripping their less than fortunate prey. But for me that is where much of the comparison ends. Wolves are social creatures ─ hunting and living in organized packs. Except for spawning and occasionally gathering in wintering areas, the muskellunge works alone. This savage predator lurks in weeds or other cover to ambush with decisive precision. It will also wander the depths to strike out at unsuspecting prey like a street thug playing by its own rules. If a musky were to be compared with a wolf, it would be the lone wolf — dark and misunderstood.
 
Since it seems that human nature is attracted to mysterious characters, it is likely that the cryptic lifestyle of the musky lures anglers to pursue it. For me, fly fishing for musky is a way of trying to understand more. Placing my fly in musky water provides a conduit to an eat-or-be-eaten world that I can only imagine.
 
Fly fishing can actually be a successful method for pursuing musky. There can be sight fishing opportunities for post-spawn fish found cruising or laid-up on sandy flats. These situations give the fly fisher the advantage. But most of the time it is many hours of blind casting to likely musky structure, such as above and through weed beds, along weedy edges, near fallen timber, and around significant changes in bottom contour. The key to success is to identify some structure, make good casts with a fly that exudes confidence, and be patient ─ extremely patient.
 
Musky are known for routinely following one’s offering as it is stripped back to the boat. On more occasions than I would like to admit, a whole day of musky fishing has boiled down to a heart-stopping follow from a big fish, only to be snubbed inches from the boat. A glass half full type of person will find excitement in the encounter, and after many years I still do. But the experience can also be heartbreaking and discouraging.
 
Techniques like speeding up the offering or performing the “figure eight” move with the fly near the rod tip can elicit a strike from a follower. It is not known why a musky follows a fly or lure with such regularity. Maybe true to its reputation, the nefarious creature just enjoys striking terror into prey before chomping down for a bite. I use the opportunity to observe the fish’s reaction to particular patterns or retrieval techniques so that I may be able to improve upon them the next time out.
 
Steve Wascher has been my partner in the musky game for the last five years. Together we have fly fished musky waters in our home state of New York as well as in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ontario. He understands structure better than anyone and fishes as hard as I do with no whining. We occasionally share a few stories while fishing, but most of the time our focus remains intently on the task. What happens in an instant can make or break the day — or maybe the entire season.
 
While fishing with Steve on a New York lake a few weeks back, I was in a particularly tough streak. I had failed to land a musky on my previous three outings. As I laid out cast after cast, the thought crossed my mind that maybe I would be better off pursuing something I could actually catch. But as I stripped in for my next cast, a shadow that began as a long dark strip behind my fly grew in length and width as the large streamer moved closer to the boat.
 
“Follow!” I yelled to Steve. I sped up the fly first by a faster strip, then by sweeping the rod with my arm and then by running up toward the bow of the boat. The big fish closed to within millimeters of the fly, but did not take. I then did a 180 degree turn with the fly and swept it rapidly toward the stern as the musky wheeled around to steadily close in on the bait pattern once again. With the enthusiasm of a five year old kid on a megaphone Steve yelled “IT WANTS TO EAT IT!” At the rear of the boat I began a figure eight and sure enough, the lone wolf ate. When I set the hook the fish flew out of the water in pure defiance. After a good battle, the big Esox was brought to the net. With my heart still pounding, I figured that was enough to keep me casting another nine thousand, nine hundred times.

 
November 26, 2008
Rene' Harrop
“Fishing the Clock”
By
Rene’ Harrop
 
            Although there are notable exceptions, trout streams within two hundred miles of Yellowstone National Park are considered large by most fly fishing standards. Typically, they flow through open terrain where wind is a daily factor. Add to this, the fact that these are highly popular waters that receive constant angling pressure during most of the year. The practice of catch and release has the inevitable effect of producing extraordinary elusiveness which increases as the trout grow older and larger. And of course, these are the objective of the selective trout hunter.
            Handling the complexities of the Henry’s Fork, Missouri, or Snake is dependent upon numerous factors but effective casting rises above all other requirements. As primarily a wading angler, I love to hunt the big water where the quarry carries spots and fins rather than fur or antlers. With minor shame, I confess to seeking only large fish in most circumstances, and the game begins when a desirable target is located. There is always one best angle from which to take the shot, and although we do not always have a choice, the ability to identify the ideal casting position is a distinct and worthy skill. And a stealthy approach to that location is no less important. Depth, speed, and complexity of the current will influence the stalk as will also the speed and direction of the wind.  Options also become limited when a trout is holding close to the bank. Unlike the wind, sunlight will not influence the actual execution of the presentation. However, nothing is more certain to alarm a trout than a shadow moving overhead. When planning your approach, always remember to factor in the direction of the sun.
            When given a choice, I prefer to make my approach from the side and slightly downstream from a large surface feeder, and with the current moving from right to left. A positive curve cast will place the fly in the trout’s window of vision ahead of the leader while keeping the line well out of view. This method of presentation requires considerable practice and is usually limited to forty feet or less. In most instances, the positive curve cast is executed side arm with a tight loop and extra line speed that over powers the cast. An abrupt stop of the stroke applied at just the right instant will kick the fly and leader to the left in a pronounced curve. With the proper control, the amount of curve can be as long as the entire leader or as short as just the tippet. This control comes from the tip of the rod which must be fairly stiff in order to develop the kind of line speed needed to make a perfect presentation.
            An upstream wind can aid a positive curve cast that can be delivered with less line speed but which is also dependent upon precise tip control for suitable accuracy. Too much flex in the tip will disrupt the aerial mend that allows the wind to induce a positive curve in the line.
            A curve cast from a similar position but with the current moving from left to right requires a completely different maneuver if the angler is right handed. Simply described, a negative curve cast is almost an underhand lob. With the rod held vertically, allow the back cast to dip slightly then sweep the line beneath the tip with an under powered stroke that lifts the line upward and to the left producing an upstream curve. Stop and drop the tip when the fly is in line but upstream of the target. This will kill the energy of the stroke and produce what is essentially an incomplete cast because the leader and part of the line are not allowed to straighten before the fly arrives on the water. Precise accuracy is not a general characteristic of the negative curve because it is often hampered by wind. However, with practice it becomes a useful tool for covering a sizable amount of water with a fly first drift.
            When the location of the trout allows an approach from the side or somewhat upstream, a reach cast is a fairly easy way of obtaining a fly first presentation. Begin this cast by starting the forward stroke toward the point on the water where you want the fly to arrive then move the rod tip to the upstream side. The fly will travel on its initial path while the line follows the rod tip upstream. Quick snap mends that add slack and length to the drift will enhance the effectiveness of this method of presentation. A reach cast to the right is utilized when the current is flowing from right to left. And of course the left hand reach is used when the situation is reversed. As in all casts, line speed is adjusted to wind force and the distance to the target.
            Perhaps the most favored presentation among anglers of limited casting skill is made from a position nearly directly upstream from the objective. And while it can be relatively effective, there is a downside to becoming dependent upon this method. It is seldom that any trout will tolerate an angler’s presence within it’s window of vision, and it is never a good idea to allow the line to pass over the fish either in the air or on the water. Both of these negatives can come into play when the fly is presented from upstream. This is especially true in extremely shallow water or when the angle to the target is close to being directly downstream where the line can not be led far enough away from the drift line to avoid alarming the trout. However, I concede to times when a directly downstream presentation is the only option, but usually assume it will be a one shot deal.
            A careful approach is always a key element regardless of the angle from which the cast will be made. Clumsy wading practices inevitably spell defeat by sending trout warning sounds or water disturbance ahead of your advance. Each step must be taken with slow deliberation. Feel the bottom with each foot as you move forward making certain of stability before placing your full weight on that foot. A successful stalk of fifty feet or less may take five minutes or more to complete, and it is here that many battles are lost without ever making a cast. Sturdy felt soled wading boots are a mandatory requirement for a stealthy approach and are well worth a little added expense.
            A downstream presentation becomes much more logical in water at least thigh deep, and should not exceed a forty five degree angle unless absolutely necessary. It pays to utilize any obstruction such as a dense weed bed or large rock that can shield your approach and shorten the casting range. Bending low over the water will lower your profile and allow a closer approach than were you to come in standing straight up. As a rule, you should expect the cast to be considerably longer when positioned anywhere upstream of your objective. Personally speaking, anything beyond forty feet is considered to be a long cast when presenting the fly to a surface feeding trout. And of course, the difficulty of proper execution increases in proportion to the length of the cast. However, a long downstream presentation can often be accomplished with a cast that is considerably shorter than the actual distance to the trout. And this is undoubtedly what makes this approach so attractive to those of minimal advantage with a fly rod.
            It is not uncommon to witness some success from anglers who get by with a rather weak delivery of the fly that arrives well upstream from the target but also beyond the correct line of drift. The fly must then be pulled into the desired position by dragging it across the surface. Assuming it is still floating, the fly is allowed to proceed downstream by dropping the rod tip and feeding slack into the drift with a series of mending actions. Hopefully the trout has not been put off by all the disturbance created directly upstream. Because all slack in the leader is removed prior to the beginning of the drift, this technique is not reliable when the fly must follow the subtleties of a complex current in order to arrive at the target in a natural manner.
            A much more precise and dependable way of delivering the fly from an upstream position is to use a strong casting stroke that generates more line speed than is needed to reach the target. Allow the full length of the line and leader to straighten well above the water then pull back sharply with the rod tip. This will cause the line to recoil back against the rod and the leader will fall in loose curves to the surface. Some time and a little effort spent in perfecting this technique will enable very acceptable efficiency in placing the fly where it needs to be and with enough slack to avoid drag. Using this method, it is possible to shorten the length of an otherwise long cast by depositing the fly on the water well upstream but in line with the feeding position of the fish. A series of crisp mends with the rod tip will allow extra line to be fed into the drift as earlier described. With the correct technique and the right rod action, it is not uncommon to maintain a fly first drag free drift for thirty feet or more. This is especially valuable in extremely shallow water where an approach to less than fifty or sixty feet will most certainly spook your objective. If the presentation is not accepted, always remember to allow the fly to drift well beyond the trout’s position before leading it away from the drift line with the rod tip. Strip the now submerged fly back upstream until you are certain that the motion of lifting the line for the next cast will not disturb the fish.
            It is my opinion that success in fly fishing is directly proportionate to the length of the cast. And the one angle most likely to allow a close approach is from directly behind the fish. For many anglers, however, a straight line cast made directly upstream can be quite intimidating despite its fundamental simplicity. I think this is because this presentation is highly dependent upon accuracy and does not allow for manipulation of the fly’s position after the cast or mending to improve the drift.
            An upstream presentation is performed with the rod in a vertical position and the stroke is made directly in line with the flow of the water. Aim the cast slightly to the side of the target allowing only the leader to pass overhead. Accuracy is more important than a long drift when fishing upstream. In slow water, a distance of two feet beyond the rise is usually sufficient to allow the fish to see the fly and intercept its drift. Faster water may require as much as double that distance. However, a fish that is holding close behind surface obstruction such as an exposed weed bed may require that you literally put the fly on it’s nose. A tippet longer than thirty inches will hinder this kind of accuracy especially when wind is a factor. Allowing the leader and line to arrive on the water before the fly will induce premature drag. This can be avoided by stopping the rod during the delivery stroke at precisely the right instant to permit the entire leader to straighten just above the surface thereby minimizing the effect that wind can have on the placement of the fly. Drop the rod tip at this point to soften the impact.
            An upstream cast that angles across the directional flow of the current creates a significant increase in the difficulty of creating a natural presentation of a dry fly. A fly cast straight upstream will be carried in a line that does not conflict with the direction of the flow. Conversely, a cast made even slightly across the current will encounter quick drag as the flow pushes against the leader causing the fly to move sideways rather than following the current directly downstream. A partial cure for this malady is to utilize a positive curve cast with a significant upstream mend. However, this technique can only be implemented from one side of the fish and is limited to a very short drift. A more versatile alternative is to use a check cast in conjunction with a longer tippet of forty to fifty inches in length. A tippet of inordinate length always carries the potential for diminished accuracy but there are situations when this is the best way to go. A vertical casting stroke that keeps the line as parallel to the water as possible is best applied when making a check cast. Slightly over power the delivery then stop the rod sharply as the leader straightens about four or five feet above the surface. The leader will spring back toward the rod tip then pile in loose curves on the water with more slack than is usual. Pulling back with the rod tip will exaggerate the recoil bringing even more slack into play if desired. The result will be a considerable delay in drag producing tension on the leader as the fly drifts downstream. The check cast can be effective anytime a difficult current is working against you.
            “Fishing the Clock” is a descriptive term for the ability to present the fly from any angle to a fish in moving water. Attaining this level of competence is dependent upon mastering a variety of casting techniques that will allow you to effectively counter the host of obstacles that often present themselves. Of equal value is the learned ability to recognize the factors that determine the best position from which to present the fly. And of course, the advantage of minimizing the length of the cast by employing strategic wading practices can not be overstated.  
            A wide shallow river like the Henry’s Fork often provides a variety of choices from which to present the fly. This is because you can usually wade freely to virtually any point desired. And while complexity of current, instream structure, and water depth will frequently influence how the fly is presented, wind is the most common determining factor.
            Over time, each of us should develop a confident relationship with a specific fly rod. This is based upon personal preference and individual casting style in addition to the conditions most frequently encountered on the water we fish. After more than fifty years, I have developed a preference for an 8’ 6” to 9’ rod possessing a fairly quick tip and stiff butt section. In fly rod terminology, the action would be considered medium fast with a continuous taper. Because casting the line and presenting the fly are not necessarily synonymous, I prefer this rod design for it’s ability to accommodate the variety of presentation angles that must be dealt with on any given day on the water. Precise tip control is key to developing line speed without the need to double haul, and this is where I find a problem with a slower action rod. Line speed generated by a compact stroke emphasizing quick recovery of the tip is not dependent upon hauling the line or loading much if not the entire length of the rod. In short range casting, I am looking only to load the tip of the rod and rely upon a fairly long leader of from sixteen to eighteen feet to bring delicacy into the presentation. Flex in the rod increases in proportion to the distance to the target as will the length of the stroke. When dealing with the wind or in gaining accurate presentation at a distance, I find a slow action rod to be a handicap. The same is true when attempting a high line speed delivery that transfers enough energy through the leader such as is needed when executing a positive curve cast. Slow tip recovery impedes my ability to get the fly quickly to a feeding fish that is moving quickly out of range.
            Many devotees to slower action rods rely upon a weight forward line despite it’s tendency to limit control both in the air and on the water. Most weight forward lines are ninety feet in length with a front taper of thirty feet. The remaining sixty feet is level line of a thinner diameter and is intended to make shooting the cast much easier. A problem arises when more than thirty feet of line is needed to present the fly in a controlled manner. Unless you are double hauling, a functional cast can not be made when the front taper or head is outside the rod tip. In this condition, it is impossible to execute anything other than a straight line delivery with little control over how the fly arrives on the water or the amount of slack that can be induced. Mending for the purpose of anything beyond extending the drift can not happen when only the level portion of the taper is in the guides. However, a weight forward taper usually works adequately for any distance under thirty feet plus the length of the leader.
            The belly of a double taper line is its longest and thickest part. No one expects a double taper to shoot with the ease of a weight forward taper. But in contrast to it’s counterpart which is specifically formulated for distance casting, a double taper is generally superior when line and loop control are the foremost requirements, and this is my choice for dry fly fishing on moving water. A strong butt section of the rod is needed to comfortably carry enough line in the air for a long cast and is also helpful in lifting the line from the water in preparation for the next cast. A skilled caster can easily shoot an extra fifteen to twenty feet of double taper if the butt section is strong enough to really drive through the delivery stroke. A double taper also facilitates the sophisticated mending techniques often needed to manipulate the drift of the fly when it is on the water.
            My personal fly rods are not the excessively rigid tools preferred by some who specialize in distance casting but instead carry the characteristics of subtle and uniform flex throughout the length of the rod. A four weight line covers most of the waters I frequent and I use it at least seventy percent of the time.
            In stating the preceding opinions it is imperative that the reader understands that they are specific to my personal perception of dry fly presentation. Others may disagree and challenge my statements, which is something I anticipate and accept. Among those things that make fly fishing so unique and appealing is that it is a sport of individuals. And because of this, we are each free to participate in our own way, satisfying only our personal preference and desire. And this is as it should be.     
 
October 13, 2008
Rich Culver
Greetings Fellow Scott-Heads and fly-fishers!
I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome you to my Southeast Alaska Scott Pro blog area.  Please take the time to venture through this area as I intend to use it to keep "you" up-to-date on various industry items as well as what's happening here, in Alaska, and in particular, the Southeast region.

Currently, things are winding down. Snow is now working its way down the mountains, but there are still silvers in most of the waters here.  Up the Lynn Canal, in the Haines area, late-run silvers are drifting in with every tide and the forecast there calls for a very good run. So far, weir counts have been good. We've been pounded with rain which curtailed much of the fishing last week, but if we get a break in the systems, and the water drops a bit, the grab should be "on".

In addition, the late chum run should add some additional grabbers as we progress into November.

Fall-run cuttys in the various lakes also adds to our late season angling opportunities as well.

So even though the season is winding down, hard core fly rodders can still find some relief from work related desk work here in SE Alaska!

Cheers,

Rich Culver
 
October 6, 2008
General Author
Start short. Use a rod and line combo that will load well in close. Try and keep as much line off the water as possible to eliminate drag. Keep your rod and arm high to assist. Remember to use your arm as an extension of the rod. I like to make 5-10 casts per pocket to search.
 
On my river, you hardly ever see consistent feeding in pockets so you have to tease them up. If you do not get a strike, move on!!! Most people spend too much time in one spot.
 
Movement of your fly is key. Skittering your fly like a natural can provoke some really violent takes. Be ready! The strike can be sudden and almost scare you. Many times you only get one shot.
 
To skitter, you want to work the fly against the surface tension of the water- so it's almost like you are trying to lift the fly off the water, but stopping before it comes up. It takes some practice, but once you get it, you can start improvising with rod movement etc.
 
Think of yourself as a puppeteer.....
 
Another cast I use to get the fly into a pocket quickly, involves a vigorous haul towards the end of the cast, as the line has straightened out. This will force your fly onto the water almost in a right angle, and it will impart a small bit of slack to allow for drift. Of Course Mending is of the ultimate importance in pocket water, this skill will only improve as you become more familiar with your rod.
 
October 2, 2008
General Author
The Yellowstone is the classic western freestone river and the only major U.S. river to escape damming. It starts in the Teton Wilderness, a stones throw away from the Snake River, flows into Yellowstone Lake, through Yellowstone Park, and cuts through Montana before meeting the Missouri at the Montana - North Dakota border. Over much of its length, it offers great trout fishing. Many of us grew up reading about fishing this blue ribbon water from legendary outdoorsmen like Joe Brooks, Charlie Waterman, Dan Bailey and Lee Wulff, and when you fish it you may be standing in their footprints.
The section above the lake is native cutthroat water and is only accessible on foot, horseback or by boat. Fish from the lake run into the River to spawn and can be abundant during summer months. It is a July 15th opener to protect spawners, and it is a catch and release fishery. Streamer patterns and attractor dries will work well for the hungry post spawn fish. The lake itself offers some fine fishing and opens June 15th. The primary species here is cutthroat, but growing numbers of lake trout have been showing up. Both species can be caught on streamers and leech patterns, such as mohair leeches, Kiwi Muddlers and Buggers. The fish seem to travel in schools along shoreline structure and action can be hot and heavy with periods of lulls. At times of hatches and calm winds, the cutt’s can be caught on callibaetis mayflies and damsels. The lake trout or mackinaw are a non-native species and must to be killed, to prevent their expansion, but you never know if you will catch a fifteen-inch or fifteen-pound specimen.
Below the Lake and through Hayden Valley, the Yellowstone has the look and feel of a large spring creek. Here again many of the fish are lake fish, which have moved into the river to spawn, and it is a July 15th opener. The Fishing Bridge, LeHardy Rapids and Hayden Valley area are closed to fishing, but there is plenty of great water in the area. When it opens, the fish are on the feed to replace calories lost during spawning and most fish are in the fifteen to twenty inch range. Combine this with the abundant hatches of Pale Morning Duns, Yellow Sallies and a variety of caddis, and the angling can be outstanding. Much of the fishing involves spotting fish and casting to them. For a while they can easy, but the fishing will be technical. Match the hatch patterns and emergers or sight nymphing is necessary. At times, ants, beetles and hoppers are productive. Even when the fishing is slow, it’s hard to have a bad time in these beautiful surroundings.
Below Canyon, the backcountry angler can have some great fishing for naïve cutthroats, but some sweat equity is involved. Trails lead into the Grand Canyon and the Black Canyon of the Yellowstone and drop down 1500 to 2500 feet to the River. The hike in is much easier than the hike out. Salmon flies and golden stones will hatch during early to late July. Attractor patterns like Convertibles, Madam X and Chernobyl’s are good searching patterns for these sections of water. As you get down in the Black Canyon, a mix of cutthroats, rainbows, browns, brookies and whitefish can be found. The trip can be done as a long day hike or overnighter. Make sure you carry ample water and gear, and bear spray isn’t a bad idea. For a less vigorous adventure, the bridge near Tower Junction offers access.
The Yellowstone River leaves the Park at Gardner, Montana. From this point down the river can be floated, and except for Gardner whitewater section and Yankee Jim Canyon most of it can be floated in a drift boat. Montana has done a great job of purchasing fishing accesses, which can be used a boat launches or for wade fishing. Camping is available at Loch Leven and Mallards Rest. The section from Gardner through Yankee Jim Canyon is primarily one channel with fast, deep water and has a high proportion of cutthroats. As you move below here, the gradient drops as you enter upper Paradise Valley and you will get some braiding. This fish populations is an even mix of cutt’s, browns and rainbows, and a good portion of the rainbows will be rainbow/cutthroat hybrids. The lower section of Paradise Valley, from Mallard’s Rest down to Livingston, flows at a quicker pace than the upper Valley. The Paradise Valley section is the most popular area, and many of the photos seen in magazines and calendars show this area with its backdrop of the Absorka Mountains. The section through Livingston has the highest population fish in the River, and many of these are 12” to 14” rainbows. Below Livingston, the Yellowstone changes its northerly direction and flows east. Fish populations drop, but the chance for some larger fish is there, and the surroundings are rural ranchlands. The geography changes as well as you leave the mountains and enter the plains. Seventy downstream of Livingston is where the Yellowstone changes from a trout fishery to a warmwater one.
Like all rivers the Yellowstone has its idiosyncrasies. On this river depth is the primary cover and sometimes it seems as if the browns are allergic to wood. Part of the reason for this is the gradual concave bottom of the river with its bowling ball size rock. As fish feel threatened they recede to deeper water in the pool. What seems like subtle changes in depth can be critical to finding fish. Another character of this river is its love/hate personality. One day she is gracious and others a whitefish would be a bonus. Summer hatches on this river can be very regional and one riffle can be alive while others are dead. Never leave a spot with rising trout.
The Yellowstone is open to fishing all year, and except for the dead of winter and runoff offers good options for the angler. In February, as days lengthen and warm, fish will become more active. Nymph fishing is generally the best bet. Look for deep, slow water adjacent to riffles. Trout are still using the insulation of the deeper water and saving energy. Midges will start to appear during this time frame, and with it the chance for dry fly activity. Midge clusters, midge emergers and small parachutes can work well. A midge pupae just a few inches below a dry are good for “bulging” fish. Foam lines and backeddies can get filled with bugs pushed into them by Livingston’s infamous winds. Around this time, rainbows will get more active prior to spawning and can be caught in riffles and runs with attractor nymphs.
March through runoff, which is around the first of May, is one of the best times on the Yellowstone. The midges and nymph fishing continue, but around the end of March and first of April, baetis will show up. These are good size blue wing olives in the #16 - # 18 range. The hatch seems to spread throughout most of the River. With the silver glare on the river, parachute Adams or BWOs with black or hot pink wings help the angler follow the fly. When floating a #14 dry with a smaller beadhead baetis or pheasant tails is a good bet. When wade fishing to a pod of fish, smaller, imitative flies, such as Sparkle Duns, Everything Emergers can be useful. Soft hackles to imitate the active nymphs are also good. Larger March Browns can also be found locally on the River, and look like sailboats compared to the smaller insects.
Around the end of April, the famous Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch will occur. Actually if you are there Mother’s Day, take Mom to dinner because you are too late. This hatch of brachycentrus cased caddis can be amazing. It is usually a mad race between runoff and the hatch. You want it to warm up enough for the bugs to hatch but not so much that the river floods. The number of bugs is astounding, and the fish notice them. The best dry fly fishing is during egg laying, and patterns like Dennis Sparkle Caddis, Peacock Caddis and Sanchez Foam Wing Caddis in #14 or #16 are good flies. At times a Coachman Trude or Midge Convertible are good hi-vis flies that you can pick out from the rafts of naturals. In the mornings a Glass House Caddis pupae of Prince Nymph will fool fish feeding of drifting larvae. Everything Emergers or X-Caddis are perfect for emerging pupae.
Runoff usually ends around mid-July, and depending on the year salmonflies coincide with the rivers clearing. Around Livingston and Paradise Valley fishing rubber leg nymphs is the most productive fishing, while on the upper Valley to Gardner there is more dry fly fishing. Accurate casts into the willows can be more important than the exact fly. Mystery Meat Salmonflies and Rubber Legs Stimulators are good adult imitations. At this same time, golden stones, Yellow Sallies (small golden stones) and caddis are common. In some sections of river the smaller flies will work better, and these hatches will be there long after the salmonflies are gone. Golden StoneX, Sally Stones and Elk Hair Caddis are good patterns. Convertibles can be good attractors as they have many of the attributes of a variety of the assorted bugs. A variety of mayflies hatch on the Yellowstone inn the summer. Overall these are localized hatches and can range from Pale Morning Duns to large Grey and Green Drakes. Parachutes or Wulffs in #16 - #12 are good searching flies.
One of the biggest summer hatches are hoppers. This will start in late July and go through September. With the structure of the River, you need to fish hoppers in different places than you would on other rivers. Two inches from the bank might have the flies in two inches of water. Look at inside corners, tailouts are troughs. Basically, look for holding water with an irregular depth. Sometimes, the best water is nondescript straight-aways and runs, and the best water can be fifteen feet from the bank. Large brown stones, classenia, are also found on the Yellowstone at this time and this may account for some of the midriver fishing. A Foam Wing Hopper or a Parachute Hopper are good imitations of both. Fishing Yuk Bugs, Buggers and Double Bunnies are good for early morning fishing and can bring out some larger specimens.
Fall fishing starts around the middle of September. Baetis perform an encore of the spring hatches, and pools, banks and riffles can be alive the small mayflies. The same patterns and techniques used in the spring will. Brown trout start to become active prior to spawning and the other species seem to put on the feedbag before winter starts. The Brown trout streamer fishing is similar to steelhead fishing. Rig a seven or eight weight rod with a running line and quick sinking shooting head, wade as deep as you dare and throw it as far as you can and cover the water. You will pay your dues, but you have a chance to catch some nice browns. There seems to be a bump in activity around the first of October and the end of the month. Feather streamers, such as Spruce Flies, are the most common patterns. When float fishing, rig a five weight for Blue wings and an eight weight for the junk. Cover the pool first with a dry and then streamer fish it. This is a great time of year with a mix of Indian Summer, snow storms, fall colors and snow covered vistas of the Absorkas.
Around November, fishing becomes tough not because of temperatures, but from wind. Thirty mile an hour winds with seventy-mile gust is a tough fly fishing gig. However, on calmer days midge dry fly fishing and nymphing can be great. Basically, the year ends the way it began.
The Yellowstone offers some varied and great fishing opportunities on the last major undammed river in the US.

Scott Sanchez
PO Box 3738
Jackson WY 83001
307 733 2041
scottsanchezflies@hotmail.com
 
October 2, 2008
General Author
I tie two epoxy sinking ant patterns, the TransparANT and the Attract-ANT, both of which are carried by Umpqua. They sink very slowly, usually only a few inches below the surface. I often fish them by themselves either to rising fish during a hatch or lightly weighted and with an indicator. What I have found to be a deadly technique with these two patterns is to fish them as a dropper about 12-16 inches behind a big terrestrial pattern like a hopper. I guess the trout see the hopper, come for it and decide to take the ant instead. Works like a charm!

Be sure to check out Harrison's amazing book, titled, Terrestrials
 
October 2, 2008
General Author
CENTRAL TEXAS BASS FISHING

If you enjoy wade fishing crystal clear streams with healthy populations of native fish and float fishing scenic rivers lined with lush vegetation, I have a wonderful place for you. Some of the waters are spring creeks with abundant aquatic life and dense hatches. There are chances to sight cast almost every day and fish will actively rise to dries, eat nymphs and viciously attack streamers. This isn’t Montana, Wyoming or Idaho; it's central Texas. Texas probably has the best variety of fly-fishing in the United States and the Texas Hill Country is the gem. The Hill Country area is in central Texas east of Interstate 35. San Antonio forms the southern boundary and it extends north almost up to Waco. Although this isn't the Rocky Mountains, the terrain is very rugged and inclined. Numerous gullies and canyons flow through the limestone substrata and beautiful limestone cliffs and bluffs are found along the streams and rivers. If your ideas of the Texas landscape were formed from 1960's western movies, you will be pleasantly surprised. Northern trout fisherman will feel at home on these waters. The central Texas streams offer solitude, incredible fishing and beautiful surroundings.
When I followed my wife from Jackson, Wyoming to Austin, Texas some of my friends worried that my fly rods would collect dust. They couldn’t have been further from the truth. My wife attending graduate school at the University of Texas was a blessing. Austin is centrally located for access to the surrounding Hill Country waters. I was given the opportunity to expand my fishing experiences in a wonderful area and add a few more species to my fish checklist. My friends, Bill and Kay Jones of Dallas, gave me a copy of the late Bud Priddy's Fly Fishing the Texas Hill Country book. This excellent book and The Roads of Texas atlas helped me find some great spots. I also worked for the Austin Angler, which gave me access to a wealth of information. Although I now live in Montana, I still like to travel and fish this area.
This part of the world has large underground aquifers and most of the rivers and streams are partially or completely spring fed. This provides a source of clear water and maintains constant temperatures in the area adjacent to the spring. Damselflies, dragonflies and caddis hatch almost all year long and are found in numerous sizes and colors. Some waters have the large Hexagenia mayflies and terrestrials are common throughout the year. To round out the food chain, we have crawfish and a wide range of baitfish. The biomass in these waters probably exceeds that of most trout tailwaters.
The native Hill Country gamefish include largemouth bass, Guadalupe Bass, a variety of sunfish, channel catfish and Rio Grande Perch. The yellow breast sunfish, which are actually a red breast sunfish, are the predominant river sunfish and they will live and feed in current. Locally, sunfish are called "perch". Some of the popular introduced species are striped bass, white bass, spotted bass and smallmouth bass. Rainbow trout and brown trout are found on the Guadalupe River. This tailwater has a good population of stocked trout and a number of holdovers. The best trout fishing is in winter months. Some of the non-gamefish, such as carp, freshwater drum, buffalo, suckers and gar, can produce some fun fishing also. These fish can be sizeable and are probably the most difficult of the Texas species to catch on a fly. Given the choice of casting to a pound gamefish or a ten-pound "trash fish", I'll aim for the latter.
Stream access varies. Some rivers, such as sections of the Llano, Guadalupe and Colorado have state owned river bottoms and you may wade fish up to the high water mark. Legal access sites are state and local parks, low water crossings, or by paying an access fee at private recreation areas. Camping is available at many state parks. On other rivers, the actually river bottom may be privately owned. These are best fished by floating or fee fishing on a private recreation areas Floating may require portages so canoes, kick boats, or kayaks are the best bets. Good fishing can be had all year, but the best times are March – June and September – November. In the spring, abundant wild flowers such as bluebonnets will carpet the Hill Country and enhance the outdoor experience.

Llano River

This is one of my favorite streams in the world. It's crystal clear with riffles, runs and pools running over the colorful pink granite bottom. There are also areas of pocket water and numerous side channels. At the head of the riffles you will catch Guadalupe bass, in the runs and pocket water yellow breast sunfish, and in the pools and shaded banks largemouths will be present. It has a good population of the native Guadalupe Bass. The Texas State fish lives in current and is similar to a smallmouth in habits. They don’t get very large, but are aggressive, strong and beautiful. He is the cutthroat of the bass world and like the cutthroat is perfectly adapted to his environment. It is a great wade-fishing stream and can crossed at braids, riffles and tailouts. There are many access points. One of my favorite sections is in the town of Llano, a scenic seventy-mile drive from Austin. The city and county parks are excellent access points and the reservoirs provide fishing options. I have also floated the river. This is best left to the adventurous and should only be attempted with adequate flows. A kick boat with oars, canoe or kayaks are the best choices. Invariable you will portage around some rock gardens. The best sections are upstream of Llano and you will need to run your own shuttles.
I fish the Llano with two to four weight rods to take full advantage of the Guadalupe Bass, but largemouth exceeding eight pounds have been caught. You never know when Mr. Big might eat. I once had a sizeable Largemouth try to eat a Guadalupe off of my line. I’ve caught carp, spotted gar and largemouths up to a couple of pounds. Channel catfish and carp can sometimes be found tailing in the riffles as they look for nymphs. Traditional trout nymphs such as hares ears, pheasant tails and squirrel nymphs will work. Very large catfish have been caught in the Llano and I once stung a buffalo that was the size of my thigh. I doubt I would have landed him, but I had to try. I’ve fished some excellent caddis hatches with the pools stacked with rising fish. Madam Xs, Convertibles, Clouser Minnows, woolly buggers, pencil poppers and divers are useful patterns. A night at the historic Dabbs Hotel Bed & Breakfast, a restored turn of the century railroad hotel, and pork chops at the famous Coopers Barbecue are a good addition to any Llano fishing trip. Historically, this area was an important hunting ground for the Commanche Indians.

Blanco River

This limestone stream offers the chance of catching a large river smallmouth. I’ve also caught good largemouth, a variety of sunfish and catfish on the fly. Some of the of the yellow breast sunfish can reach good size. Numerous springs are found throughout the river and adjacent to them is thick aquatic vegetation. Water clarity is exceptional. Sight casting to visible fish can be effective. Deep pools are alternated with faster runs. Rock ledges give the fish cover and ambush points. However, access is limited. Floating this river is the best way to fish it and this should be done with caution and discretion. Area landowners are less than enthusiastic about recreational use of "their river" and the state owns the water but not the river bottom. Also, legal parking areas near low water crossings are not well defined. Wade access can be found at Blanco State Park, Little Arkansas Camp, a private fee area near Wimberly, and at Dudley Johnson Park near Kyle. All these areas also have small reservoirs on them, which have excellent stillwater angling. These spots are under an hours drive from Austin. There are good populations of insects, crawfish and minnows for the predators to feed on. Rubber leg Woolly Buggers, crawfish patterns, Kiwi Muddlers, damselfly nymphs and poppers are effective for the smallmouth, largemouth, spotted bass and sunfish. Joey Linn, an Austin fly fishing guide and photographer, has caught a number of smallmouth over three pounds on this water.


San Marcos River

A spring creek in Texas? The San Marcos bubbles out of the ground at 200 CFS with a constant 70-degree temperature. I’ve watched sunfish sipping Callibaetis mayflies as gently as any trout. Long strands of aquatic vegetation provide habitat for the abundant lifeforms and large Cypress trees form a canopy over the water. The area around the springs, the present City of San Marcos, is one the oldest constantly inhabited sites in the world. Our ancestors knew when they had a good thing. The river can be wade fished in the San Marcos City parks. As you move downstream most of the banks are deep and undercut. This creates wading difficulties, but it is an excellent floating river. You will be able to spot schools of bass and sunfish and watch them come to your fly. All the common bass and sunfish are found in this water with the addition of the Rio Grande Perch. This small cichlid is related to the peacock bass. They are difficult to catch on a fly and are considered a fly rod trophy even though a twelve-inch specimen is a large fish.
There are two excellent five-mile floats between I-35 and the town of Martindale. The Blanco flows into the San Marcos downstream of the city of San Marcos and doubles the flow. The lower float has class 3 rapids which can portaged if you don’t feel adventurous. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at Shady Grove campground in Martindale. They also offer float instructions and shuttles to put in points. I like to fish Madam Xs, Rabbit Charlies, mohair leeches and divers. Bass over five pounds inhabit the water and I once caught a foot long yellow breast sunfish. In hot and cold months, the upper river with its constant temperature will fish better than other central Texas streams.

Colorado River

The largest river in the area starts in west Texas and flows through Austin on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. The reservoirs on the Colorado are home to the white bass and his big brother the striped bass. These fish travel in schools looking for baitfish. A boat is used for this fishing. Chasing stripers busting bait on top is very exciting and you never know what size the fish might be. They could be two pounds or twenty-five pounds. Deceivers, Double Bunnies and Divers will imitate the injured shad. When it is good it’s incredible, but you will have some slow days. More consistent fishing can be had in the tailwaters below the power generating dams. When the dams are generating power, baitfish are forced out with water. This is makes an easy meal for the waiting predators. White bass are the most frequent catch, but stripers will key in on this also. Max Starke Dam or the dam on Lake Buchanan are good spots. Largemouth, Guadalupes and sunfish can be caught during slack water periods. You might also pick up a freshwater black drum or you can cast to carp tailing in the shallows like bonefish. Use caution when wade fishing as the water flows come up quickly and without an alarm sounding. A sinking shooting head is helpful in deeper holes. My Lipstick Minnow, Cypert’s Mylar Minnow and Clouser Minnows are good imitations of the common small baitfish.
The Colorado and tributaries such as the Llano and Perdenales host good spawning runs of white bass in the spring. They feed heavily on the stream minnows. Fishing can be fast and furious. The smaller males move in first. Later, when the females move up, the whites will average between a pound and two pounds. Small #8 bonefish flies or grey Clousers are very effective, but at times my Conehead the Barbarian fly in chartreuse can be deadly. There is also the chance a striper may be in feeding on the white bass. Last year, J.T. VanZandt, an Austin Angler guide, caught striper in the ten-pound range. Colorado Bend State Park, the mouth of the Llano at Lake LBJ and Reimers Ranch on the Perdenales are some of the more productive areas. This is one time when you will have company on the river.
Town Lake in downtown Austin can be fished for largemouth and sunfish. It holds some the bigger largemouth in the region. The perimeter of the lake is a city park with a walking trail or canoes can be rented. Barton Springs, a popular summer swimming hole, flows into Town Lake and it holds a number of fish. They will congregate here in winter months. I caught a redear sunfish during a January cold spell that was the size of this magazine. Above Barton Springs, Barton Creek is paralleled by a green belt hike and bike trail. The flow can intermittent, but I've caught fish in the deeper pools and smaller springs seep life into the creek during low water periods. It is urban backcountry angling. Onion Creek at McKinney State Park is a suburban small stream option.
Downstream of Austin, the river becomes larger, wider and slower as you drop out of the Hill Country. There are some big largemouth here. Trees and deadfall provide excellent habitat for them. The faster riffles and runs hold Guadalupe bass and stripers, white bass, channel catfish and large gar also inhabit the river. Larry Sunderlund of the Austin Angler uses his Montana style drift boat to float the Colorado. There are a number of floats that can be done. A canoe or kickboat can also be used. Traditional bass bugs, poppers, bendbacks and crawfish are good flies.

Tackle

A rod in the four to six weight range is ideal for most of the Hill Country fishing. These will allow you to cast reasonable size bass flies and still have fun with smaller bass and sunfish. Medium action rods are better than fast rods for throwing the wind resistant or weighted flies. A 7-½ foot 2x leader will cover most of your stream fishing. Floating lines will cover most situations, but a Teeny T-130 shooting head is helpful for probing deep pools. I’ll use a seven to nine weight rod for stripers and big bass fishing. A 0x leader is about the smallest I use. Full sinking lines are good for suspended fish in the reservoirs. Along with the before mentioned flies, Rocky Mountain style attractor dry flies, hoppers, trout nymphs and streamers will produce.

Cautions

As with any outdoor adventure there are inherent potential dangers. Flash flood warnings should be taken seriously. The hilly, rocky terrain pours water into ravines during heavy rainstorms. It can come up very quickly. A small creek can become a large river in a short time. Water moccasins and rattlesnakes are part of the area's fauna. I figure if I don't bother them, they won't bother me. Give them a little space and you should be fine. When floating make sure there is an adequate flow. Otherwise, you might be in for a long portage. Also, float with a partner. Some floats are very remote and a companion may save your life.


Austin has excellent air service. Austin is known as the live music capitol of the United States. Nightclubs have great music for people with any type of musical taste and there are frequent indoor and outdoor concerts. Austin restaurants are on par with the music and any style of food is available in good quality. This is a great place to take a non-fishing companion.

There are numerous other streams, rivers and lakes in the area. I highly recommend wetting a line in the fertile waters of central Texas.

 
October 2, 2008
General Author
“Leave the stripping to the girls at Fred’s Lounge- dead drift your wooly buggers”

Well, I guess it’s a little more complicated than that. But, I have never in fifteen years had a new client step in my boat that fully understood how I wanted them to fish a bugger, so I figured this might be a good tip to put in print.

Whenever I mention to a client that I’d like them to try a bugger, I often get that scared, deer in the headlights look, followed by a comment about how they don’t like bugger fishing because it is too much work to be constantly stripping as fast as you can. Over the years, we have developed a technique that is a hybrid between indicator nymph fishing and stripped streamer fishing. Before I get too far into the details, let me explain why it works.

Most of the waters of Western Montana are medium to higher gradient streams with a lot of pocket water. We have a lot of big stoneflies hatches. The stonefly family includes the famous Salmonflies, Golden Stones, Skwallas, and Acrenuria. These stoneflies are all greater than an inch long, and all are on at least a two to five year cycle as nymphs. We also have a lot of sculpins in our rivers. That means that our fish eat stonefly nymphs all year long, and are very accustomed to seeing a big meal come rolling down their feeding lane. The technique I will describe tries to imitate the behavior of both stonefly nymphs and sculpin minnows in the same technique.

Here is my theory…If you see a great seam wrapping around a boulder and extending downstream for 10-20 feet, why would you only keep your fly on (or under) that seam for only one or two feet? With a dry fly you would make you cast and set up your mend so that you could get as long a drift as possible, but most people throw their buggers in and strip them right back out of the feeding lane, and hope that the fish will chase. Granted, fish will charge after a fast stripped fly occasionally, but only when the water temps are right and the stars are properly aligned.

Set Up

I tie my buggers on size 6 and 8, 3x long hooks. Almost always with a single brass bead, some rubber legs (to look like a stonefly) and I usually stack all the hackle just behind the bead, for the tapered look of a sculpin, rather than the usual palmer style. Vary your colors as the dominant stonefly hatches and water color change. Black and orange for Salmonflies, brown and yellow for goldens, etc. Add more color to the fly as the water becomes more turbid.

Rig your leader with about 10” of tipped so that one or two BB size shot can be placed above the knot. I always prefer this to a heavily weighted fly. Place your indicator three to six feet above your fly depending on the depth. I prefer the pinch on foam or corky type indicators, rather than yarn. Yarn does not stay buoyant when repeatedly twitched though the water.

Pocket Water

Let me paint a picture of a typical holding seam near the bank. A boulder, stump, or protruding gravel bar will push out into the current and create a pocket of slower water. The seam (the line between the fast and slow) will extend down from the object until it dissipates, and the water speeds become even again. The slow water directly behind the object will often re-circulate upstream in an eddy. The water just down from the boulder will generally be the deepest part of the seam, and then it will become increasingly shallow as the seam dissipates. The water will also become increasingly shallow as you move closer to the bank. Blocked on two sides by the bank and the boulder, the eddy water will be pushed out against the faster current and be swept back downstream in the “seam.” These seams come in many sizes and scales. Sometimes the entire river will turn around a point and we call that an “inside seam” of the river.

Execution

The simplified explanation of the technique is to let your fly go as slow as possible without hanging up on bottom, while adding life-like action to your fly, and keeping it in the strike zone for as long as possible.

To fully understand it, let’s walk through the ultimate drift in the theoretical pocket described above.

From a straight across position cast your fly near the bank several feet below the boulder. Finish you cast with a high rod tip (creating a bit of slack) so that you can make a large mend upstream. This will tighten your leader and allow your fly to swim with the current upstream in the eddy water. Keep you eyes glued to that indicator and don’t doubt yourself, don’t be afraid to strike!

As the indicators get pushed out near the seam your indicators will slow down and allow your fly to sink (the water direction is about to change.) Now sweep a large mend down over your indicators and allow a little drag to grab your fly line and speed up your fly. Your fly line should be laying straight down the seam in front of your fly. Your fly will be dragged straight down the feeding lane.

Remember that you want your fly to go as slow as possible, so now you need to slow it down. This is achieved by making a series of “kick mends” all the way down the seam. A “kick mend” is a tight mend upstream that tugs at first and then rolls a small loop right up the fly line, usually only as far as the indicators. This kick mend achieves many things all in one smooth motion. First, the tug twitches the indicators downstream, which both straightens your leader (so you can instantly see or feel the take) and bounces the fly up off the bottom (giving action). Second, the tight loop mend instantly gives slack to the indicators and allows you fly to sink again. Repeat all the way down the seam whenever your fly seems to go too fast. If you wish you can tighten up and allow your fly to swing out at the end of your drift.

Rules of Thumb

1) Always keep you indicators down current of your fly (remember eddy currents can move upstream.)
2) Fish will always face into the current.
3) If your fly leads your indicators you will not see the take.
4) Mending up current will let your fly sink.
5) Mending down will speed up you fly and make it rise up.
6) Approach deeper pockets from slightly above, shallow pockets from below.
7) The colder the water temps, the slower the drift.
8) Wherever you mend your line, if you tug, your fly will follow.



The result of this technique is that your fly follows the depth profile of the pocket, stays in the feeding lane, has controlled life-like darting action, yet drifts at an appropriate speed. Give it a try on your home river from early spring until the high water completely settles. And if the fish are off in the mid-summer dog days try it again. PS- it is also deadly for smallies.

Good luck and keep in touch,

Joe