2015 YELLOW DOG FLYFISHING ADVENTURES CATALOG

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YELLOWDOGFLYFISHING.COM

VOLUME 15

email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com • website: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com • 1

2 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

YELLOW DOG FLYFISHING ADVENTURES

213 SOUTH WILLSON AVENUE • BOZEMAN, MT 59715 • 888-777-5060 • email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS DESTINATIONS: 6 Belize 20 Mexico and the Yucatan 29 The Bahamas 43 Los Roques, Venezuela 44 Christmas Island 46 Indian Ocean 50 Bluewater Options 51 Other Salty Options 54 Bolivia 56 Brazil and the Amazon 58 Freshwater Exotics 60 Argentina 66 Chile 72 Alaska 82 Kamchatka 84 Canada 88 Montana 96 Idaho 100 Wyoming 101 The Pacific Northwest

ARTICLES AND OTHER INFORMATION: 4 Why Book Your Next Trip with Yellow Dog? 12 Top Travel Tips for the Destination Angler – Jeff Currier 26 The Secret Lives of Bonefish – Justin Lewis 52 Fly Tyer Profile: Brent Dawson & Warpath 71 Best Travel Reads of 2015 80 Seven Things I’ve Learned:

Alaskan Guide Wisdom from Camille Egdorf 94 Drink Recipe: The Yellow Dog Bloody Mary 102 Top Family Destinations 104 Top Couples Destinations 106 Meet the Yellow Dog Team 108 The Yellow Dog Website

PHOTO CREDITS: Black and white catalog cover photo by Jim Klug. Passport cover design

by Scott Morrison. Other photo credits throughout the catalog include Bryan Gregson, Jim Klug, Ian Davis, John Hudgens, Tom Melvin, John Sherman, Jeff Currier, Bruce Chard, Keith Rose-Innes and Jim Harris. The vast majority of the photos used throughout the catalog are shot by the Yellow Dog team. A very small number of un-credited, non-Yellow Dog images in this catalog were provided directly by lodges and occasionally by Yellow Dog clients.

SELECTING THE RIGHT DESTINATION FOR YOU… Throughout this Yellow Dog travel planner you will find a series of reference symbols to help you quickly and easily match the lodges and operations with the type of amenities, offerings and options that are important to you when planning your next trip.

Ideal Couples Destination

High Value / Economy Package

Wi-Fi Available

Ideal Family Destination

Rental / Demo Equipment On-Site

Dive / Snorkel Program On-Site

email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com • website: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com • 3

THIS IS THE REASON

WHY OUR CLIENTS BOOK WITH YELLOW DOG

We have an amazing team of people here at Yellow Dog, and the relationship that we have with our clients is always our highest priority.

When you book a trip with Yellow Dog, we promise that we’ll work for you on all levels – at all times – to make your fishing trip outstanding. The best preparation, the highest levels of support and exceptional customer service: what we like to call THE YELLOW DOG DIFFERENCE. Contact us today to discover for yourself what a booking company can and should be.

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WE MATCH EVERY CLIENT WITH THE RIGHT DESTINATION

YELLOW DOG’S SERVICES ARE ALWAYS FREE TO YOU!

At Yellow Dog, we have a very simple philosophy. We don’t care WHERE you go, as long as it’s the right place and the right match for you. What that means is that we never sell a trip based on exclusive contracts that we have with lodges or on beds that we’re obligated to fill. Rather, with a full line-up of different locations, accommodation options and price points, we match you and your expectations up with the destination that’s just right for you.

When you book a trip through Yellow Dog, you NEVER pay more than if you were to book direct with a lodge. You get hands-on assistance, valuable inside information, and total support on all levels – all at NO ADDITIONAL cost to you.

Sometimes clients think, “I’m sure that I can save some money if I do this on my own.” Not only is that a false assumption, but more often than not, booking a trip on your own can end up costing you MORE, especially when you factor in your time, headaches and the very real possibility of booking substandard guides, the wrong lodge or incorrect dates.

WHY WOULDN’T YOU UTILIZE EVERY RESOURCE AVAILABLE TO MAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP EXCEPTIONAL? Most people wouldn’t think of buying a new life insurance policy or selling a home without using an experienced, professional agent. So why should your important fishing trip – something that involves your valuable vacation time and your money – be any different? Especially when these services cost you nothing? Working with Yellow Dog will result in a better trip – each and every time. As we’re fond of saying, using our services is like having a back-stage pass to the world of fly fishing!

INCREDIBLY DETAILED PRE-TRIP PLANNING MATERIALS Here at Yellow Dog we are very proud of the incredibly detailed pre-trip materials that we provide for every trip that we book. Yes, we love beautiful pictures and colorful graphics, but we also know that savvy travelers expect more. When you book your trip through Yellow Dog, you will always receive useful, detailed, up-to-date and relevant information specific to your exact destination. We provide everything you need to know about the fishery, relevant species, travel logistics, transfers, gear and equipment, packing lists, fly recommendations and more.

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BELIZE Whether you’re looking for a hardcore, fishing-focused adventure, a first-time saltwater experience, or the perfect couples or family vacation, Belize is a destination that truly offers something for everyone. Seemingly created and designed with fly fishermen in mind, the tiny country of Belize is collectively home to some of the finest saltwater flats on the planet. The entire coastline of this beautiful Central American country – from the northern waters of Ambergris Caye, to the central waters of Turneffe Atoll and the Belize City area, and all the way south to Hopkins, Placencia and Punta Gorda – hosts a broad range of species and a variety of different fishing scenarios. Bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, snapper, jacks, barracuda and numerous other species can be found throughout the waters of Belize’s coastline, in fisheries that range from skinny, white sand flats, to shallow-water lagoons, to some of the largest “classic-style” tarpon fisheries on the planet.

It is this overall level of angling diversity that truly sets Belize apart from every other Caribbean fishing destination.

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Overall, Belize is a small country by Latin American standards – approximately the same land size as the state of Massachusetts with a total population of only 300,000 people. Tucked just below the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize is the smallest country in all of Central and South America and the only country with English as the official language.

First-time saltwater anglers can experience great fishing in destinations that include Turneffe Atoll and Ambergris Caye, where the bonefish are plentiful and shots at permit, tarpon and numerous other species are always possible. For anglers that want to focus on the ultra-selective permit, then the waters of Southern Belize – Hopkins, Placencia and Punta Gorda – offer some of the best opportunities found anywhere in the Caribbean.

And of course there is the tarpon fishing in the central and northern waters of Belize, home to some of the largest tarpon in the entire region.

BEL IZE TURNEFFE FLATS

Turneffe Atoll, Belize

Located 30 miles off the coast of mainland Belize, Turneffe Atoll has been recognized for decades as one of the top saltwater flats destinations in the world.

It is the largest atoll in the Western Hemisphere and one of the most untouched and undeveloped eco-systems in all of Central America. Within this pristine atoll environment, Turneffe Flats Lodge is strategically located to take advantage of more than 250 square miles of flats, reefs and lagoons as well as the bonefish, permit, tarpon and other species that call this area home. In business for more than 25 years, Turneffe Flats is far and away the best option in Belize for anglers that love to wade fish, and one of the finest overall lodge and fishing operations in the entire world of saltwater fishing. Here at Yellow Dog we actually use this operation as a “bellwether” by which we rank and rate the many other lodges that we work with throughout the Caribbean.

Yellow Dog is proud to be Turneffe Flats’ largest booking agent, and we send so many people here with good reason. The lodge is ideal for anglers of all skill levels and the fishing is consistently good throughout the year. There are also a large number of options for non-anglers, including a full PADI dive and snorkel center and the “Atoll Adventures” package. Spacious, air-conditioned guest rooms are located directly on the beach, offering panoramic views of the nearby reef.

There are also two spacious villas – the Garden and the Reef – that are perfect for families or small groups of friends. The social center for Turneffe Flats is the large, air-conditioned main lodge and dining room, where a daily pre-dinner gathering for hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and stories is customary. The screened verandah is a wonderful place to enjoy the tropical evening with new and old friends, and the main deck and pool area is ideal for taking in the Caribbean sunset. The lodge itself is also surrounded by a network of huge “home flats,” offering immediate access to wade fishing on your own before and after each day of guided fishing.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $3,851.00 per person.

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BELIZE RIVER LODGE Beiize City, Belize In business for close to 60 years, Belize River Lodge offers an incredibly diverse fishing program, a team of excellent guides and easy access to what many feel are the best waters for tarpon found anywhere in the Caribbean. Offering great yearround fishing for bonefish, permit, snook, tarpon, barracuda and more, this is a great option for those seeking a range of fishing scenarios – from first-timers looking to catch a large variety of fish to experienced saltwater anglers looking to target a specific species. Conveniently located on the Belize mainland only minutes from the International Airport, the lodge sits directly on the banks of the Olde Belize River.

From the lodge, anglers can quickly access the river, the coastal inlet areas, and the offshore cayes and flats. Accommodation feature A/C and private baths. Well-suited to anglers looking for a quieter, more intimate lodge setting, this is a great option for excellent tarpon action combined with a large number of other species.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $3,668.00 per person.

LONG CAYE ISLAND LODGE

Long Caye, Belize Owned and operated by Belize River Lodge, this is a small, off-the-grid, outpost operation that is located on the undeveloped island of Long Caye in Central Belize.

For years, Long Caye has been one of our very favorite fishing areas in Belize – a spot that we always loved for impressive numbers of permit and seriously large tarpon! Due to the prime location of this lodge, anglers can fish these waters earlier in the morning and much later into the evening without the long runs associated with the more distant lodges throughout the region. This is a great option for those that are focused on hardcore fishing with very long days on the water. This small, four-tosix-person operation overlooks the barrier reef and features three double occupancy bedrooms and a shared bath for the lodge. Combination packages can also be arranged that include several days at B.R.L.’s main lodge combined with days at the outpost Island Lodge.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,302.00 per person based on a group of six.

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BEL IZE EL PESCADOR LODGE Ambergris Caye, Belize El Pescador Lodge is one of the most established, experienced and famous fishing lodges in all of Central America. Long a Yellow Dog favorite, the lodge complex is situated on the island of Ambergris Caye, a Belizean vacation hot-spot that offers yearround fishing for tarpon, permit, bonefish and more. Anglers staying at El Pescador can fish for bones along the many tidal flats and mangroves, target permit on deepwater flats, or fish the reef and channels for jacks, cudas, snapper and variety of other species. Perhaps the most popular fishing at El Pescador, however, is the sight-fishing for tarpon. Offering the largest “classic” tarpon flats in the world outside of South Florida, Ambergris is one of the few spots in the Caribbean where tarpon can be sightfished year-round. Resident schools of tarpon (20 to 80 pounds) roam the broad flats of the area 12 months a year, and larger migratory tarpon – fish 100 pounds and larger – arrive in strong numbers in the late spring and early summer months.

El Pescador offers a great location, quality food, a friendly and attentive staff and a team of seasoned guides who have more experience fishing these waters than anyone. Guests can choose from the newly remodeled and fully renovated standard rooms in the 12-room colonial-style main lodge, or opt for more private accommodations in the larger El Pescador Villas. Fully re-done in 2014, the rooms in the main lodge are very comfortable, with spacious bathrooms and showers, air-conditioning, ceiling fans and two queen beds. One, two, and three-bedroom villas are perfect for couples, families or small groups looking for more of a “private home” layout. Amenities at the resort include a fully-stocked “Angler’s Bar,” three swimming pools, a workout room, volleyball court, a practice casting area, a fullystocked fly shop, and sea kayaks and S.U.P’s that allow you to explore and fish the lagoon flats on your own after a full day of guided fishing. The location of the lodge is fairly secluded, yet close enough to town to offer great access to a host of restaurants, shops and bars. San Pedro is a great beach town with the best nightlife in all of Belize! El Pescador is the perfect destination for first-time saltwater anglers, seasoned veterans, couples and families. This was one of the original properties that we worked with here at Yellow Dog, and even today it remains one of our favorite saltwater destinations.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,755.00 per person.

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BELCAMPO LODGE BELIZE Punta Gorda, Belize Because the southern part of Belize has little tourism and is visited by few anglers, not many people are aware of the area’s phenomenal fishing and eco-tourism activities. Perched atop a jungle hilltop with a spectacular view of the Maya Divide, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, Belcampo Lodge is arguably the most unique resort in all of Southern Belize. Belcampo is the ideal location for couples, families and anglers looking to combine a fishing trip with great non-angling activities and a high-end jungle experience. The food, service, accommodations, amenities and location are all incredible, making this one of the nicest fishing and adventure lodges in the entire Caribbean. Onsite amenities include a spa, pool, mountain bikes, hiking trails, kayaks and canoes. Eco-tour activities can easily be arranged and include jungle tours, visits to nearby Indian villages, Mayan ruin excursions, guided river trips, chocolate-making classes and more. The location and setting of the lodge is incredible, the grounds are beautiful, and the food, service and amenities rank among the finest in the entre Caribbean.

For anglers who want to take advantage of the area’s famous permit fishing, Belcampo features a first-rate fishing program that utilizes a number of experienced permit guides from the Punta Gorda area. As a fishery, the coastal waters of Punta Gorda boast more permit and more big permit than just about any place in the Caribbean. In a single day of fishing the permit flats in the Punta Gorda area (when the conditions are right), it is not unusual to see hundreds of permit, experiencing a dozen or more legitimate shots a day. Aside from permit opportunities, Punta Gorda also offers a number of other fishing scenarios for those seeking diversity, including bonefish on the outer reef islands known as the Sapodilla Cayes and seasonal fishing for snook, large jacks and tarpon.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages start at $3,500.00 per person.

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BEL IZE GARBUTT’S LODGE Punta Gorda, Belize For many anglers, catching a permit on a fly is truly the "Holy Grail" of saltwater fly fishing, and the waters of Punta Gorda, Belize have as many – if not more – permit than any place we’ve ever seen. For permit-junkies looking to fish this region, Garbutt’s Lodge is the perfect base of operations, a place that we like to describe as having been “built by anglers, for anglers.” Air conditioned, spacious and clean, Garbutt’s is a small, fishing-focused, oceanfront lodge located right in the town of Punta Gorda in Southern Belize. There is a small bar and restaurant, where cold beers and fresh seafood are always available. On several nights during a standard package, guests will also have the option of eating at one of the local, in-town restaurants. While there are some tarpon, bonefish and snook in the area, we make no qualms about the fact that this is very much a permit-focused destination that is best suited for those who understand and appreciate the challenges of this type of fishing. As for the caliber of the guides, we cannot say enough about the Garbutt brothers and their team. These are some of the nicest, “fishiest” and most accomplished permit guides that we have found anywhere in the world. Our number one permit destination in the entire region.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,865.00 per person.

TURTLE INN Placencia, Belize Less than a year after Francis Ford Coppola acquired this beachside refuge in 2001, it was completely swept out to sea by Hurricane Iris. Turning disaster into opportunity, the Coppola’s began a multi-year reclamation project, the end result being an incredible 25-room seafront resort that is consistently ranked among the best operations in all of Central America. With an attentive staff, two restaurants, an idyllic beachfront setting, access to all types of mainland activities, and a highend spa, Turtle Inn is the perfect option for couples and families looking for a great Belizean beach vacation. It is also great for anglers traveling with a non-fishing significant other in search of a high-end lodge option! Placencia is perhaps best known for the large numbers of permit that inhabit the area, although bonefish and tarpon can also be found throughout the year. Yellow Dog has been booking guides in the Placencia area for more than a dozen years, and we can easily arrange any number of guided fishing days to compliment a stay at Turtle Inn. If you are looking for a Caribbean vacation that combines luxury accommodations with great fishing, then this destination should be at the top of your list.

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and package pricing.

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A CONVERSATION WITH JEFF CURRIER

Super-Useful Travel Tips from a Globe-Trotting, Fly-Chucking, Adventure-Loving Road Warrior

As a long-time ambassador for Yellow Dog, Jeff spends a lot of time on the road, traveling to

new destinations, exploring new fisheries and visiting and evaluating the operations and lodges that we’ve worked with for years. (Yellow Dog: “Hey Jeff. What are you doing Thursday?” Jeff: “Why?” Yellow Dog: “We need you to head the Seychelles and check a few things out.” Jeff: “Sure.”) Jeff has been fly fishing the world for over 40 years, and his adventures have taken him to more than 50 countries on six continents with more than 300 fly-caught species notched on his belt. Jeff is constantly traveling, exploring and developing new techniques for catching the most exotic fish imaginable.

Throughout his travels, he’s learned a few things about packing, preparation and prevention, and he’s agreed to share with us a few of his favorite tips for the destination angler.

• Pack your gear in a soft-sided, waterproof-type duffel without wheels, frames or hard sides. No doubt your gear will sit out in the rain at some point, so waterproof material is key. Soft duffels are also easier to pack into truck beds, water taxis, floatplanes and on the sides of donkeys.

• Get one rod carrier that carries multiple rods. One carrier that carries four rods is much lighter than four rods in individual aluminum rod tubes.

• I always carry-on all of my meds, a spare set of clothes, sunglasses, a hat, snacks, computer, camera gear, cash and all of my important documents. If my luggage doesn’t make it, at least I can survive.

• I always bring snacks when I travel, and while you can’t pack around chocolate bars in hot climates, chocolate chip Cliff Bars are no problem.

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• For international trips I never try to carry on rods, reels or flies. Overseas TSA-type entities are too unreliable and unpredictable, and I once missed a connection flight in Paris trying to re-check my rod tubes. I always pack all tackle in my luggage. If I’m nervous about too many connections, I’ll split my stuff into two bags so that if one bag doesn’t show I’m still in good shape.

• I always pack an “essentials” kit for repairs that includes a Leatherman tool, duct tape, Velcro wraps, superglue, extra tip-tops for my rods, a couple of zip lock bags, and a small amount of parachute cord.

• If your rain jacket goes in your packed luggage, be sure it’s on top for quick and easy access upon arrival.

• Reel handles can break in your checked luggage. Pad them well. I line them up with the handles facing each other and either wrap them in clothes or put them in a padded reel carrier.

• Don’t count on being able to use your phone overseas to access data and numbers for emergencies, etc. Hand-write important numbers in your journal so that you have them for sure.

• Weigh checked luggage at home to be sure it’s under the limit for additional fees. There’s nothing worse than trying to repack everything on the floor of the airport.

• Always bring a fleece – even to warm climates. Mornings and evening are often cool (even at the equator) and airplanes are notorious for being cold!

• Always have some small-bill cash, and be sure that all bills are in mint condition. Bills that are marked, tattered or torn are often not accepted in foreign countries.

• Roll your clothes when packing, and never fold or bunch.

Use clothes to protect fragile items, tackle and liquids.

• Set up and rig as much tackle as possible (backing, lines, leaders, etc.) before you arrive at your destination. Be set and ready to go as soon as you get there!

• Too much stuff becomes confusing. Always pack light!

You don’t need half the gear you think to travel anywhere.

• Always use a packing list. Update and edit the list after every trip, and use it religiously when packing.

• Check to make sure that your travel documents are up-todate. Be sure to always pack photocopies of your itinerary, passport, phone numbers, etc.

• Patience is important when traveling. Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Life is much too short to be angry and annoyed all the time.

• Wake up early. It’s the very best time for photos due to soft and warm morning light. It’s also a good time to interact with locals, and sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning.

• Take a lot of photos. Great photos are the ultimate souvenir. They don’t cost anything, they’re easy to share with others, and they don’t take up space in your luggage.

• Don’t be afraid. The world is not nearly as dangerous as the media makes it out to be. Use common sense and you’ll almost always be ok. Most people you meet are friendly, trustworthy, generous and willing to help you out.

• Travel insurance is worth purchasing for big-ticket trips that are largely non-refundable.

• No one likes turbulence, and while there’s nothing you can do to avoid it, you can reduce the discomfort by selecting a seat located as close as possible to the wings of the plane.

• When buying your tickets, focus on mid-week flight deals.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are thought to be the best and cheapest days to purchase airline tickets.

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CAYE CAULKER FLY FISHING Caye Caulker, Belize Located approximately 20 miles northeast of Belize City on the edge of Belize’s Barrier Reef, Caye Caulker has a relaxed atmosphere and a no-hurry attitude that seems to be shared by the majority of the island’s 1,600 residents. The island’s motto is “go slow,” a mindset that has come to define pretty much everything that happens on the island. As a destination and vacation spot, Caye Caulker has always been popular with backpackers and budget travelers, due to its cheap prices, laid-back vibe and abundance of inexpensive restaurants and bars. Now it is becoming popular with anglers as well! Located on the lagoon (back) side of the island, the Sea Dreams Hotel is the base of operations for our Caye Caulker fishing and lodging packages.

The Sea Dreams offers a combination of easy access and laid back tranquility, with a friendly staff, a rooftop bar, a private dock and one of the best locations in the entire village. In addition to the area’s healthy tarpon fishery, there are also great permit and bonefish opportunities in the waters that surround Caye Caulker. The guides are legitimate, the prices are the most reasonable in all of Belize, and the overall atmosphere is as laid back and easy going as anything you’ll find in the Caribbean.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $1,840.00 per person.

WHIPRAY CAYE Placencia, Belize Whipray Caye – a tiny, private island eight miles off the coast of Placencia – is perfectly located in the very heart of the best permit fishing in the world. While fairly basic and rustic in nature, Whipray Caye Lodge is comfortable, laid-back, economical and strategically located – the ideal base of operations for hardcore anglers looking to maximize their time on the water, fish the tides at the best times of the day and take advantage of the area’s phenomenal numbers of permit. The number one advantage of staying at Whipray is that you avoid the long runs back and forth from the mainland each day. At this lodge, you are literally staying on top of the flats, surrounded by some of the most productive permit water in the world. Aside from permit, the area also offers shots at bonefish, tarpon, the occasional snook and numerous other species. Why settle for long boat runs each morning when you can actually base yourself in the middle of the Southern Belize’s prime fishing grounds?

Accommodations are in comfortable waterfront cabins, the food is great, and the lodge features the Sea Urchin Bar - one of the most unique drinking and dining establishments in all of Belize!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,285.00 per person.

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BEL IZE ROBERT’S GROVE RESORT Placencia, Belize Robert’s Grove is a complete seaside resort that is able to cater to serious anglers while at the same time satisfying the vacation wishes of non-anglers, couples and families. Nestled on 15 acres between the Caribbean Sea and the Placencia Lagoon, Robert’s Grove is built directly on one of the nicest white sand beaches in all of Belize. This is a destination that is perfect for the angler looking to fish for a few days while vacationing with the family and taking advantage of a variety of additional activities. With a prime location on the Placencia Peninsula, the resort offers access to all types of mainland and jungle activities.

BLUE HORIZON LODGE Hopkins, Belize Blue Horizon Lodge is a small, out-island destination that is best suited for the hardcore angler who is serious about catching permit on the fly. The lodge’s prime geographical island location in the Pelican Caye Range (18 miles southeast of Dangriga) makes Blue Horizon one of the best destinations in the Caribbean for honest shots at permit. Basic and rustic in nature, this small lodge operation should be viewed as more of a “base camp” than a fishing lodge. Through over 40 years of trial and error, owner and head guide Lincoln Westby and his staff have developed and mastered permit fishing techniques that consistently and regularly produce. If you’re serious about catching permit, then Blue Horizon is a solid option.

ROBERT’S CAYE Placencia, Belize Robert’s Caye is a tiny one-acre island that is owned by Robert’s Grove and located approximately eight miles off the coast of Placencia. The Caye features small, stilted cabanas, each built directly over the water. These cabanas have all been built with spacious decks and stairs that actually lower via a pulley system directly onto the small home flat. The ideal setting for small groups of anglers and guests, this private island paradise is surrounded by crystal-clear water, abundant marine life and immediate access to some of the best permit fishing in all of Belize.

THE LODGE AT CHAA CREEK San Ignacio, Belize Belize’s most established eco-resort, this is a fantastic add-on option to any Yellow Dog fishing package and the perfect base of operations from which to visit and explore the interior of the country. Set along the banks of the Macal River in the jungle foothills of Belize’s Maya Mountains, the Lodge at Chaa Creek has long been recognized as one of the very best jungle resorts in all of Central America. Yellow Dog can easily arrange a two, three or four-day package to Chaa Creek that will fit nicely with any of our Belizean fishing packages.

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"The photography in this book is more than outstanding.

It's a true feast for the eyes, the mind and the imagination.” ­— Brian O’Keefe, Catch Magazine From the northern waters that surround Ambergris Caye, to the pristine marine eco-systems of Turneffe Atoll, all the way south to Hopkins, Placencia and Punta Gorda, this new book project is a testament to why Belize has earned a reputation as one of the finest saltwater fishing destinations on the planet. Aside from its incredible imagery, Fly Fishing Belize also provides a look at the history of Belize, the evolution of sportfishing in the region, information on specific fisheries throughout the country, and useful advice for planning a Belizean fishing adventure.

From a photography and writing perspective, this book will speak to those who have fished Belize and those who plan to in the future.

Photographs and Text by Jim Klug Foreword by Tom Bie Illustrations by Ian Davis with contributions by: Steve Abel, Dr. Aaron Adams, Bruce Chard, George Anderson, Val Atkinson, Jeff Currier, Terry and Wendy Gunn, Mike Lawson, Lefty Kreh, Craig Mathews, Mike Michalak and Brian O’Keefe.

Hard cover, with cloth cover and printed dust jacket.

(11.5” x 11.5” x 1”) • 268 Pages • $60.00

BOOKS AVAILABLE AT:

KLUGPHOTOS.COM 888-777-5060 16 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

“You can fish the entire world, but when all is said and done, few places deliver the challenges and opportunities that Belize has to offer. And nobody has ever grabbed the essence of why that is, better than Jim Klug has done in this book. It’s an absolute artifact, unlike anything else.”

—Kirk Deeter Editor-at-Large, Field & Stream Magazine

BELIZE DAY TRIP OPTIONS For detailed information on our complete line-up of Belizean lodge and fishing options, please visit the Yellow Dog website at www.yellowdogflyfishing.com.

AMBERGRIS CAYE DAY TRIPS San Pedro, Belize For those visiting Ambergris Caye and the San Pedro area and looking for a day or two of guided fishing independent of an established fishing lodge, then our Ambergris day trips are the perfect solution. Offering both half and full day trips, this is a fantastic way that will allow you to experience the area’s great fishery with experienced guides in a relatively short period of time. All equipment (rods and reels) is included with these packages, as well as a light breakfast, lunch and refreshments.

With these trips, our guides will be happy to pick you up on the morning of your guided day(s) directly in front of your hotel, resort or condo.

Full day trip packages are $425.00 per day.

Half day packages are $300.00 per day.

BELIZE CITY DAY TRIPS Belize City, Belize If you're visiting Belize City for a day as part of a Caribbean cruise ship package, or spending a couple of days in the Belize City area en route to another location in the country, then we can easily arrange a day of fully guided flats fishing. Timing and schedules for these trips can easily be adjusted to accommodate flight times or cruise ship stop-overs. You won’t regret spending a day casting to bonefish, tarpon, snook and permit in between the cruise ship shuffleboard, cheesy lounge singers and all-you-can-eat buffets.

Day trip packages are $595.00 per day for either one or two anglers.

PLACENCIA AREA DAY TRIPS Placencia Village, Belize The Placencia area has long been known as the home of some of the finest independent guides in the country, and we can easily arrange day trips in area waters that are best known for large numbers of permit. A number of the area’s mangrove islands and lagoons also hold good numbers of tarpon that can range in size from 20 to over 80 pounds. Schools of bonefish can occasionally be found in some areas of the cayes for those anglers interested in pursuing the elusive grand slam. The Placencia guides utilize 23’ pangas (skiffs) outfitted for fly fishing and light tackle saltwater fishing although it is recommended that anglers bring their own rods, reels, flies and terminal tackle when possible.

Day trip packages are $500.00 per day for either one or two anglers.

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YUCATAN The Yucatan Peninsula and the waters of Ascension Bay, Espiritu Santa, Chetumal, Campeche and Holbox offer the saltwater fly fisherman one of the most diverse selections of game fish found anywhere in the Western Hemisphere. While this part of the Caribbean is best known for fantastic numbers of permit, bonefish and tarpon, dozens of other species are also available for the adventurous angler. Jacks, barracuda, sharks, amberjack, snook, snapper, grouper and other flats and reef species all offer outstanding action on a fly or light tackle set-up every month of the year. The vast estuaries and flats systems found throughout the Yucatan provide the infrastructure for the region’s pristine and highly productive fishery. When conditions are right, an angler can cast to bonefish, tarpon, snook, permit and more, all in a single day of fishing. This kind of angling opportunity and diversity can only be found in a few locations throughout the world.

Many of the flats in the Yucatan – especially in the Ascension Bay area and further south – are hard-bottomed and ideal for wading.

Here, crystal-clear waters offer anglers a great opportunity to wade

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and sight fish for cruising and tailing bonefish and permit. If you are specifically targeting permit or tarpon, you will oftentimes be fishing in waters too deep for wading or over soft bottoms that are difficult to wade. Much of the fishing in these areas is therefore done from the bow of a local panga or flats skiff.

As an overall fishing destination, we love the Yucatan for a variety of reasons: first off, it is usually easy and quick travel to the area, with direct flights to Cancun offered from most major U.S. cities.

These flights are almost always reasonably priced, keeping the overall travel and transfer costs low. The second thing that we love about the Yucatan is the low cost of the lodging and fishing packages. Compared to other top Caribbean fishing destinations, the Yucatan is far-and-away the best value in the entire world of saltwater flats fishing. And finally, this is the perfect destination for first-time flats anglers and intermediate anglers looking to improve their saltwater game. With a healthy diversity of species and all types of different fishing scenarios, the Yucatan truly offers something for everyone.

YUCATAN GRAND SLAM LODGE Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico This full-service, amenity-packed fishing lodge – the nicest and most modern in the Ascension Bay area – is situated on a beautiful expansive beach on the outskirts of the small fishing village of Punta Allen. We’ve worked with Grand Slam since they first opened their doors and can tell you from personal experience that this is one of the top flats fishing operations in all of Mexico. This is a testament to the lodge’s experienced, veteran guide staff from Punta Allen as well as the lodge’s owners, who are committed to operating the finest, most complete fishing operation in the Yucatan. This is the perfect destination for first-time saltwater anglers as well as more advanced anglers looking for a great variety of species and fishing scenarios.

And because of years of effective regulations and enforcement, Ascension Bay – home to impressive numbers of bonefish, permit, tarpon and snook – is one of the few places in the world that can back up the claim that the fishing is actually getting better every year!

While staying at the lodge, you will start each morning by walking out your front door, stepping directly into your fishing boat, and heading out for a day of worldclass fishing in either the Boca Paila Lagoons to the north or Ascension Bay to the west. We rate this destination at the very top of our list for non-anglers traveling with anglers. The rooms are spacious and each has a huge private bathroom, A/C, waterfall-style shower, a deck overlooking the water and spacious sitting areas. One of the nicest things about Grand Slam is that you can arrive and depart on any day of the week, and trips of any length can be arranged. These packages also include a boat transfer from Tulum, which eliminates the long and bumpy drive down the dirt road to Punta Allen!

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and package pricing.

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PLAYA BLANCA LODGE Espiritu Santo Bay - Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico For those looking to combine incredibly diverse flats fishing with a private and secluded tropical beach vacation, the Yucatan’s Playa Blanca Lodge is the ideal destination. Located approximately 120 miles south of Cancun on the private island of Punta Pajaros, the lodge offers guests access to one of the largest protected marine reserves in the world. Playa Blanca is an adventure resort which offers the same high caliber fishing program as its sister lodge to the north, Casa Blanca.

The big difference between the two is that Playa Blanca is a slightly more intimate beach resort that is perfect for families or couples looking for a quiet, adventurous Caribbean getaway. Another difference is that anglers staying at Playa Blanca have near-exclusive access to both Espiritu Santo Bay and the vast Santa Rosa Lagoon system, home to large numbers of bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and other shallow water species. This area receives very little pressure over the course of the year, making it the ideal destination for anglers who prefer fishing in solitude.

7 night / 6 day packages $4,240.00 to $4,615.00 per person, depending on season.

PESCA MAYA LODGE Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico Situated in the middle of the 1.3-million acre Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Pesca Maya Lodge offers a great fishing program, good food and one of the best values found anywhere in the world of saltwater flats fishing. Pesca Maya first opened its doors in January of 1996 and has since established itself as one of the Yucatan's most popular fishing destinations. The lodge property is located 90 miles south of Cancun on a long, narrow strip of barrier beach that is virtually surrounded by the waters of Ascension Bay and the Boca Paila lagoons. If you’re a beginner saltwater angler, Ascension Bay is one of the best places in the world to catch your first bonefish. For more seasoned anglers, this is one of the world’s top locations to target permit on a fly. With hundreds of square miles of flats, it is not uncommon to see bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, and barracuda all in the same day. With easy access to Cancun from most U.S. cities, this a great option for trips of any length.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,753.00 per person.

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YUCATAN CASA BLANCA LODGE Ascension Bay – Yucatan Peninsula Located on the southern edge of Mexico’s Ascension Bay, Casa Blanca has long been recognized as the most established fishing lodge in the Yucatan and one of the world’s very best saltwater fly fishing destinations. Completely surrounded by the Ascension Bay marine eco-system, Casa Blanca’s crystal-clear waters are home to impressive numbers of bonefish, tarpon, snook, permit, jacks, barracuda, snapper, sharks and several different reef species. This kind of angling diversity makes Casa Blanca the ideal destination for novice saltwater anglers and seasoned fly fishermen alike. Each day you will have the option of fishing from a skiff or wading, and the Lodge’s daily schedule is completely flexible. The quality of the accommodations and food, the caliber and experience level of the guides, the overall atmosphere of the lodge and the fantastic location all combine to create a first-rate Caribbean angling experience.

Included in your stay at Casa Blanca is a private round-trip air charter from Cancun direct to the lodge’s own airstrip – a transfer that replaces what is usually a long and bumpy ride down the road to Punta Allen. Upon arrival at the lodge, you will be greeted by the Casa Blanca staff with a cold margarita and shown to your room – comfortable, spacious, and air-conditioned. The Caribbean is only 100 feet away from the main complex, which means that all the rooms are seaside. The lodge also boasts a 100-yard long concrete pier, and some of the best fishing for tarpon, jacks and permit happens right off the pier at night, with a cold drink or cooler of beer under the lights! Casa Blanca (and sister lodge Playa Blanca) are the only lodges in the far southern reaches of Ascension Bay. It is as remote and pristine a location as you will find anywhere in the region. Casa Blanca has 11 seaside rooms and can accommodate 22 people comfortably 7 night / 6 day packages $4,240.00 to $4,615.00 per person, depending on season.

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CAMPECHE TARPON Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico Located on the northwest side of the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche has become known as one of the finest destinations in the entire Caribbean for baby tarpon.

Yellow Dog is proud to work with outfitter Alejandro Hernandez and his talented team at Campeche Tarpon. While not as diverse as the waters of the southern Yucatan, this is an area that offers some of the finest and most consistent fishing for baby tarpon that we have found anywhere in the world. With an untouched and undeveloped mangrove coastline stretching north from the city of Campeche for more than 75 miles, the fishing for tarpon in the 5-20 pound range can be fantastic, especially during the late spring, summer and fall months. This is an area that delivers not only numbers of fish, but great sightfishing opportunities as well. Also, with a large variety of activities, cultural sites, Mayan ruins and interesting day trips, Campeche is the ideal destination for non-anglers and non-fishing spouses.

This picturesque city was designated a United Nations' World Cultural Heritage for Humanity (UNESCO) site in 1999, making it a very unique and special place to visit.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,467.00 per person.

HOLBOX TARPON LODGE Isla Holbox, Mexico Located off the northeastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, the small barrier island of Holbox has established itself as one of the Caribbean’s outstanding tarpon fisheries. A small, out-of-the-way island with beautiful white sand beaches, Holbox is surrounded by some of the most productive tarpon habitat found anywhere in the region. Anglers can find tarpon of all sizes throughout the year, from juvenile fish in the shallow and secluded back lagoons, to larger fish in the 75-to-100 pound range in open waters. Holbox Fly Fishing Lodge is the only property on the island dedicated to fly fishing enthusiasts and their non-fishing partners. All of the rooms feature air conditioning and comfortable furnishings. A continental breakfast at the lodge will start each day, lunch is served on the boats while fishing, and dinner is on your own in one of the many local restaurants. Holbox has become known as one of the top big tarpon destinations in the world, and this is a great destination for those that truly want to focus on sight casting to the Silver King.

5 night / 4 day packages $1,995.00 to $2,695.00 per person, depending on season.

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YUCATAN COSTA DE COCOS LODGE Xcalak - Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico Located on the far southern tip of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo on the border with Belize is the small fishing village of Xcalak (Ish-ca-lack) and Costa De Cocos Lodge, a small and intimate lodge operation that offers anglers direct access to the waters of Chetumal Bay. The largest bay in the entire Yucatan, Chetumal is nearly twice the size of Ascension Bay, its famous neighbor to the north. This area is home to endless flats and healthy populations of bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, jacks and many other species. If you're looking for a laid back and fantastic vacation to dive, fish, kayak, explore or just relax, then this small, off-the-grid lodge is the perfect place. We have worked with and represented this operation for years, and we are proud to say that this is one of our favorite “low key” destinations in the entire region.

Great fishing, knowledgeable guides and one of the best values anywhere in the Caribbean. The area’s jungle, rich with wildlife, is the lodge's back yard, and the Caribbean Sea is literally on the front steps. Guests stay in individual cabanas with private bathrooms, ceiling fans and daily maid service. After a long day of fishing, you can relax on the lodge’s main deck and enjoy fresh appetizers and cold drinks from the all-inclusive bar.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,295.00 per person.

CANCUN AREA DAY TRIPS Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico If you’re heading to the Mexican resorts of Cancun, Playa Del Carmen or Tulum for a conference, weekend escape or a family beach vacation, plan on scheduling a quick and easy day of legitimate fishing on the flats of world famous Ascension Bay. Home to bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and numerous other species, this is one of the most productive fisheries in the entire Caribbean. With these trips, you’ll be picked up at any resort in the area and transported by van to meet your guide at the lodge. These trips are great single day options for first-time flats anglers, families with kids and experienced anglers looking to sneak in a day on the water. The drive to and from the lodge can be a bit lengthy depending on the condition of the road and the location of your hotel, but the fishing and the chance to spend the day exploring one of the most famous saltwater flats destinations in the world makes it all worthwhile. Lunch, beverages, boat and guide, all equipment and round trip transportation are included.

Ascension Bay day trip package (for one or two people) is $590.00, including transportation.

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FEEDING THE GRAY GHOST By Justin Lewis Hailing from the Island of Grand Bahama, Justin is a young Bahamian who knows a thing or two about catching bonefish. Born and raised on Grand Bahama (and having had the opportunity to travel to many of the other Bahamian islands), he has spent thousands of hours walking the flats in search of bonefish. From a young age he had an affinity for the sea and the creatures that inhabit it, which put him on the path to becoming a marine biologist. He eventually achieved that dream by completing an undergraduate degree in Aquatic Resources and a Master’s in Marine Environmental Management. Justin is currently the Bahamas Initiative Coordinator for the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust (BTT) and travels the islands conducting bonefish research and educating guides, fishermen and the public about the importance of the bonefish resource to the Bahamas. We had a chance to talk with Justin and ask him the secrets of his success when it comes to feeding, hooking and landing bonefish.

“As many flats anglers know, bonefish can be fickle, selective creatures. On any given day in any given situation, they can spook in spectacular fashion with an explosion of water when you’re still a hundred yards away, or turn tail and give you the “fin” after what you felt sure was the perfect cast and presentation of your fly. Both of these have happened to me more times than I care to remember. There were even times when fish didn't spook. Instead they’ll swim right by your fly without paying it any mind, like a hot girl at a bar who’s way out of your league.

I get asked all the time what the best flies are for bonefish, and my answer is always the same: it depends. Like fishing for trout, when bonefishing it makes sense to always try and “match the hatch.” Most anglers assume that the same bonefish flies will work in any given situation, on any given day. A bonefish’s prey, however, varies depending on the conditions, the habitat, time of year, water temperatures, and a number of other factors. Scientific studies have shown that a bonefish’s diet is wide-ranging. Clams, mussels, crabs and shrimp are collectively their preferred forage. When out on the flats, take time to look at what might be scurrying around on the bottom and use flies that best imitate the creatures and prey you find. Once you have selected your pattern, it is important to remember that if you don’t present the fly properly to the fish, your chances of a hook-up diminishes.

Presentation is key, and when I say presentation I am referring to (A) the placement of the fly in front of the fish, and then (B) how you work and move the fly on and across the bottom.

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Here are a few tips for properly presenting your fly to bonefish to help increase your chances of hooking up:” • Pick a fly you trust. If you don’t have a high degree of confidence in the pattern you’re fishing, you won’t be able to give it the “mojo” needed to entice a bonefish to eat. If you’re with a local guide and they recommend a specific fly, then do yourself a favor and use it. Don’t argue. Ever. Most of the guides I know have years of experience on their home waters and are seasoned professionals who know what they’re talking about. Have faith in your fly and in the guide’s advice and chances are good you’ll catch fish.

• Always use a loop knot from your tippet to your fly to allow the fly to “hinge” and dive straight down. A “looser” fly movement will often-times trigger a bonefish to immediately attack the fly rather than continue to follow the fly without eating.

• Whenever you can, make sure you’re in a favourable position to present the fly, and always “set yourself up” for success. If possible, the sun should be behind you, and you should always try to use the wind to your casting advantage. When you’re fishing from a skiff, a good guide can usually make this happen.

• When presenting a fly to a bonefish – whether the fish is cruising slowly or tailing – watch the body language of the fish as you begin your retrieve. There are many times when a bonefish will follow a fly and not eat it. If you witness this happening, change up your retrieve (either slow it down or speed it up) until you trigger the reaction you’re looking for.

• Once in position, be ready to make the cast. Always minimize your false casting as much as possible. The more you false cast, the more shadows will be thrown over the water, which increases the likelihood that the fish will see your line or rod and spook. The speed of your presentation is just as important as your accuracy and distance. The “speed” is the amount of time it takes to lay out your presentation cast and the number of false casts needed.

• When casting closer to the fish you must be ready to strip and move the fly the second it hits the water. If there is any slack in your fly line when the fly is presented, it will be impossible to actually move the fly or set the fish until you’ve dealt with your junk show and come tight to the fly. Once you are physically connected to the fly, you can then focus visually on the fish's movements, behavior and reactions.

• It’s important to lead the fish and place the fly in the right zone, always landing it as softly as possible. A good rule of thumb for most situations is to lead a bonefish by five feet (although there are times when you will need to lengthen or shorten that distance). For example, if you’re fishing a shallow, white sand flat, bonefish are going to be a bit spookier than fish feeding over a dark bottom. In this situation you should cast the fly a bit further in front of them.

If you over cast or fall short, you now have a cushion to recast entirely or to simply strip the fly into the fish’s “zone” (the position where the fish will swim right over the top of the fly without spooking). The opposite is true when fishing over an uneven, coral-strewn bottom or over turtlegrass flats, when you want to present the fly a bit closer than five feet.

One reason for this is because you want the fish to see the fly sinking down to the bottom, which can often-times trigger an eat. You’ll also cast closer to the fish to avoid getting hung up in the coral or grass. Casting closer allows you to let it sink and then move the fly right away, which allows the fish to move in on the pattern and eat it before it snags on the bottom.

• Once your fly is in the proper position and location, let it sit! Wait for the fish to swim up on it and be in a position to see it before you move it. A quick, erratic strip isn’t necessary and will often-times spook the fish. Instead, go with a short and slow strip, which will hopefully get the fish’s attention and cause it to pounce on the fly.

• Many people feel that the most important factor in proper fly selection when fishing the saltwater flats is color; specifically how the color of the fly relates to the color of the bottom. Many of the small creatures and crustaceans that live on the flats have evolved to blend in with their surroundings, camouflaging themselves to easily hide in the sand, coral and turtle grass. For this reason, many experienced anglers feel that it is important to match the color of the fly to the general color of the bottom — be it grass, coral, mud or white sand.

• When it comes to selecting the size of the fly, a good general rule is the shallower the water, the smaller the fly.

While this is not always the case, a smaller fly that makes a smaller splash when it hits the water is much less likely to spook fish that are feeding in skinny, shallow water. Larger flies can be fished in deeper water and on windier days, when more surface chop hides the splash of the fly as it’s presented.

• In addition to size and color, the weight and sink rate of flies is crucial. In most saltwater flats environments, your bonefish fly boxes should contain flies with at least three different sink rates: Unweighted, slightly weighted, and heavy. Make sure your fly sinks to the bottom within three seconds. Deeper water equals a heavier fly.

• Knowing exactly where your fly is at all times relative to the fish will allow you to properly move and strip the fly, or to make the best secondary presentation if needed. Paying attention to the fish's speed and body actions, the water depth, the current direction, and the wind are all important.

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BAHAMAS The islands of the Bahamas comprise a 100,000 square mile archipelago that covers more than 500 miles of the clearest, most pristine water in the world. This is an area that is home to some of the finest bonefish habitat on the planet, and the gigantic network of unspoiled flats found throughout the Bahamian islands are the country’s main angling attraction. The species that inhabit the flats include the “Caribbean Big Three” — bonefish, tarpon and permit — as well as barracuda, sharks, mutton snapper, mangrove snapper and jack crevalle. The flats and prime fishing areas of the Bahamas are so numerous that it would be almost impossible to visit every area – even in a lifetime of fishing!

The majority of the flats in the Bahamas have hard, white sand bottoms, which is why they rank among the best flats in the world for wade fishing. As far as water quality and clarity, the flats throughout the Bahamas are almost always gin-clear, and the sightfishing opportunities are endless. Some islands and lodge

destination also offer bluewater fishing programs, offering anglers the chance to target tuna, dorado, wahoo and even billfish.

The fact that the Bahamas are so close to the U.S. make this a fast and easy destination for anglers looking to maximize their fishing time and minimize travel time. With regular, direct access to such islands as Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros and Nassau, the Bahamas are the perfect option for a quick weekend escape. Destinations including Andros and the Southern Out-Islands are ideal for longer trips and for those that appreciate solitude and miles of endless, uncrowded flats. Here at Yellow Dog, we love the Bahamas for anglers who are new to saltwater flats fishing and looking to have a great first experience with bonefish. It is also our preferred destination for anglers looking for seriously large bonefish and sizeable permit in the spring, summer and fall timeframes. And finally, it is a great option for anglers that live in the Eastern U.S. and the Southwest, where access is quick and easy.

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GRAND BAHAMA With an impressive combination of natural wonders, man-made attractions and endless flats, Grand Bahama offers something for everyone. Grand Bahama gets its name from the Spanish “gran bajamar” – meaning “great shallows” – for the many flats and shoals that surround the island. The island stretches on for 96 miles, and is rimmed with cities, villages and cays that offer lasting evidence of the many different people and cultures that have called Grand Bahama home. As a destination, the island offers visitors numerous choices, from world-class beach resorts to small, historic fishing villages and remote lodges. It has one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, three national parks, endless beaches, gorgeous water and of course world class bonefishing. No matter where you fish on Grand Bahama, the waters that surround the island are loaded with fish, including strong numbers of permit and some of the largest bonefish in the world.

H2O BONEFISHING & PELICAN BAY Grand Bahama, Bahamas We appreciate how tough it can be for many anglers to balance a quality fishing trip with the vacation demands of family. It is for this reason that we are proud to work with H2O Bonefishing, an operation that couples an outstanding fishing program with the offerings of the high-end, full-service Pelican Bay Resort in Freeport. This area of Grand Bahama offers a wide selection of restaurants, bars, shopping, golf, nightlife and a casino. Combine these offerings with the island’s world-class bonefishing and you have a complete Caribbean beach vacation that will satisfy every family member while at the same time delivering totally legitimate fishing. Whether you’re a die-hard angler seeking big bonefish and shots at permit, or someone who needs an exciting vacation spot that works for non-angling companions and family, Pelican Bay is a great choice. We’ve worked with the owners of H2O for many years, and these guys really know the Grand Bahama fishery.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,745.00 per person.

DEEP WATER CAY CLUB Grand Bahama, Bahamas Since 1958, anglers from all over the world have visited Deep Water Cay in search of trophy bonefish on the pristine flats on Grand Bahamas’ East End. Today, the fishery is as healthy and productive as ever, loaded with huge bonefish and Bahamian permit, and home to excellent guides, high-end equipment and one of the nicest lodge layouts in the Caribbean. Accommodations at Deep Water are in private waterfront cabanas, or in larger guest homes and cottages that are ideal for families or groups. Lodge amenities include the clubhouse, a dock and marina, infinity pool, angler’s bar, fully-stocked tackle shop and a 4,000’ private airstrip. Daily runs to and from the flats are short and easy, and the layout of the “bights” on this end of Grand Bahama create a situation where anglers can fish optimal tides throughout the course of each day. Deep Water offers an overall fishing program and a lodge setting that has long been recognized as one of the finest options in the world of flats fishing.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,098.00 per person plus tax.

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BAHAMAS EAST END LODGE Grand Bahama, Bahamas One of our favorite offerings in the entire Bahamas, East End Lodge is a high-value “fishing focused” destination that delivers long days on productive waters with fantastic, experienced guides. As a base camp, the lodge offers great food, a full bar and spacious, air-conditioned rooms that overlook the gorgeous aquamarine water.

All of this at a price point that is the best on Grand Bahama. The second largest island in the Bahamas, Grand Bahama is home to amazing numbers of exceptionally large bonefish as well as impressive numbers of permit. East End Lodge is very close to some of the most beautiful and productive flats on the island and a reasonable run to the five bights that cut through the “horn” of the island on the East End. This multi-bight fishery enables the guides to fish optimal conditions throughout the day, typically keeping clients on fish and in the action regardless of what the tides are doing at any given time. The experienced guides of East End Lodge have been taking anglers to these flats for over two decades, and they know their home waters exceptionally well. Travel is easy to Freeport on Grand Bahama, which makes this the perfect destination for quick two and three-day trips as well as week-long excursions. You can arrange a trip of any length and arrive and depart on any day of the week.

6 night / 5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,515.00 per person.

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THE ABACOS The Abacos are a group of islands and cays that form a 120-mile-long chain that spreads out over 650 square miles. Throughout this huge area, there are countless numbers of uninhabited cays, pristine beaches, and huge expanses of virgin flats teaming with bonefish, seasonal permit and numerous other species. Known for decades as the “Sailing Capital of the World,” the Abacos have come on strong in recent years as a world-class bonefishing destination, with a phenomenal offering of high-end lodges, a huge amount of fishable water, and some of the best guides in the country. With direct, daily access in and out of the international airport in Marsh Harbour, this island is a great option for quick and easy travel and immediate access to great fishing.

BLACKFLY LODGE Abaco, Bahamas Located on the southern end of Abaco, Blackfly Lodge is a great option for couples and small groups of friends looking for a lodging experience that is intimate, highend and private. The recently-constructed Blackfly Lodge and Clubhouse replaces the original beach house that was home to Blackfly during their earlier years. The new lodge is now the epicenter of the Schooner Bay residential community on Abaco, a development that features a marina, beautiful white sand beaches, and (in the near future) a small retail village. The overall layout and setting is ideal for those seeking a quiet place to relax and to enjoy a tropical vacation. Blackfly accommodates a maximum of eight anglers per week, all in single rooms on the second floor. Large plantation-style porches wrap around the entire building, giving the entire lodge a historic “Caribbean Colonial” feel. Each angler room is named after a famous fishing celebrity, and fly fishing artist and Black Fly partner Vaughn Cochran has created contemporary portraits of each personality that decorate the corresponding rooms.

As nice as the overall lodge facility is, the strongest attribute of this operation is the guide team – some of the most in-demand guides in all of the Bahamas. Clint Kemp, the lodge manager, runs a tight ship, and he and his staff have created a relaxed, fishing-focused vibe backed up by an infrastructure of total professionalism. The waters you will fish each day are uncrowded and pristine, presenting excellent opportunities for big bonefish, tarpon, mutton snapper, occasional permit and numerous other species. There is no doubt that Blackfly provides the most diverse fishing program on Abaco, mainly due to the lodge’s prime location and flexible fishing program. For equipment, the lodge features new East Cape skiffs: fly friendly and incredibly well-designed. Blackfly also offers bluewater fishing from a 31-foot Yellowfin center console offshore boat. The fertile waters that surround Abaco are well-known for marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin and the occasional sailfish. Combo flats and bluewater itineraries can easily be arranged.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $5,150.00 per person.

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BAHAMAS THE DELPHI CLUB Abaco, Bahamas If you are seeking an upscale, high-end and full-service Bahamian destination, then the Delphi Club on Abaco is an excellent option for both anglers and non-anglers alike. Built in 2009 by Peter Mantle (who previously restored, owned and managed a famous salmon fishing lodge at Delphi in Ireland), the Delphi Club on Abaco is truly a one-of-a-kind fishing operation in the Bahamas. From the moment you arrive at the Club, you will feel a sense of the full history of fly angling in every aspect of the lodge’s design, decor and artwork. The well-managed and diverse fishing program will position you in some of the most productive bonefish habitat found anywhere in the region. While staying at Delphi, guests will be guided in the famous Marls area on the East side of the island (an area that offers over 200 square miles of bonefishing flats) and on the wadeable, sandy flats of Cherokee Sound. This is a destination where you can easily bring non-anglers to enjoy the tropical setting of Rolling Harbour, or take a day off from fishing to relax in the lodge’s infinity pool or on the white sand beach.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,995.00 per person.

ABACO LODGE The Marls - Abaco, Bahamas One of the nicer, fishing-focused operations in the Bahamas, Abaco Lodge is the perfect destination for those seeking “just a little more” than what is usually found at the average fishing lodge. Strategically located in the highly productive Marls area on the eastern side of Abaco, the lodge offers immediate access to an extensive and well-protected flats system that is home to an impressive number of bonefish. All guest rooms at Abaco Lodge are single occupancy with A/C, a private bathroom and a large deck overlooking the home flats. The main lodge features a well-stocked bar, a large dining area, satellite TV and a comfortable social area and lounge. Large picture windows overlook the pristine Marls and the lodge’s dock area, and there is an outdoor patio with a bar and large sitting area – the most popular gathering spot on the property! Adjacent to the main lodge are a freshwater pool and an outdoor fire pit. Hands down one of the nicest lodges in the entire region, Abaco Lodge is an operation that delivers consistent fishing action, strong numbers of bonefish and great accommodations and amenities.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (single occupancy rooms) start at $4,995.00 per person.

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ANDROS ISLAND

At 2,300 square miles in size, Andros is the largest and most undeveloped island in the Bahamas. Its shallow waters are wellknown, however, thanks to the second-largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere and a well-earned reputation as the “Bonefishing Capital of the World.” The island – measuring roughly 120 by 40 miles – is home to approximately 8,000 inhabitants, most of whom reside on the northern coast. Andros has always been one of the least explored islands in the Bahamas. Early visitors to the area traditionally avoided Andros, as it is surrounded by shallow water and thereby very difficult and dangerous to make landfall or anchor. These same factors make it the ideal flats destination for anglers, with thousands of square miles of shallow waters, flats and world-class bonefish habitat.

SWAIN’S CAY LODGE Mangrove Cay - Andros Island, Bahamas Swain’s Cay Lodge is a full-service bonefishing operation and small-scale beach resort that is ideal for anglers, non-anglers, families and couples. Located on one of the nicest white sand beaches on Andros, this fantastic lodge offers a number of different accommodation options, including ocean-view suites, garden-view twin rooms, and a three-bedroom apartment for larger groups and families. The lodge’s Reefside Restaurant & Bar is located right on the water and serves up delicious threecourse dinners of fresh lobster, fish, ribs, chicken and conch. The lodge is located on Mangrove Cay, Andros, only a short 15-minute flight from Nassau. Swain’s is the ideal option for those looking for great fishing combined with all of the amenities and accommodations that non-anglers look for in a Caribbean beach vacation.

One of the things that anglers love about this destination is the easily-accessed home flat, where guests can fish on their own after a full day of guided fishing or on arrival and departure days. As far as overall location goes, Swain's offers easy and direct access to the least-fished of all of Andros' three Bights: the South Bight.

Since the lodge is located equidistant between the South and Middle Bights, the guides can easily maneuver anglers to take advantage of the most favorable tides and winds on any given day. On this part of Andros, the main currents of water come from the Tongue of the Ocean, a 6,000-foot trench that begins one mile off the east coast of Andros. This close proximity to deep water ensures you will always have clear water in any weather condition. Collectively, Swain’s location ensures that you will never be fishing an off-tide, chasing uncatchable fish deep in the mangroves or fishing off-colored water during your guided days.

7 night/ 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,840.00 per person.

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BAHAMAS BROAD SHAD CAY North Bight – Andros Island, Bahamas In 2009, after years of planning and construction, well-known Andros guide Capt.

Andy Smith (from Andros’ “first family” of flats fishing) opened one of the nicest, most exclusive, small-lodge operations in the entire Caribbean. Broad Shad Cay is ideally situated in the North Bight, equidistant between the east and west coasts of Andros.

This location allows anglers to fish optimum tides throughout the day with minimal running time in the boat. Built on a small, private island in a very remote location, the layout consists of two bedrooms, a main dining room and lounge, and a wrap-around deck offering unbeatable views of the surrounding waters. Lodge amenities include satellite TV, air conditioning and a productive wading flat right in front of the lodge.

Here at Yellow Dog, we have known Andy Smith for over 20 years, and can say without reservation that he is hands-down one of our favorite people in the fly fishing industry.

He is a phenomenal guide, a consummate professional and a good friend.

Since there are no roads to the tiny island where the lodge is located, a boat transfer is the only way to access the lodge. There are no other lodges or fishing operations (or any buildings for that matter) within 20 miles of the lodge (with the exception of Andy’s father’s old lodge, the historic and now-closed Bang Bang Club). If you’re looking to get away from it all in a quiet, isolated setting with a first-rate fishing program, then Andy Smith’s isolated lodge is hard to beat. Small and very exclusive, Broad Shad offers a great location, first-rate accommodations, and the opportunity to learn the finer aspects of flats fishing from the best team of guides on Andros. Capacity is limited to four guests per week and reservations should be made well in advance.

6 night/ 5 fishing day packages $4,969.00 per person.

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MANGROVE CAY CLUB Mangrove Cay - Andros Island, Bahamas Located in the very center of the expansive Andros fishery, the Mangrove Cay Club offers unrivalled access to the Bahamas best bonefishing from the comfort of one of the most well-appointed fishing “base camps” in the entire Caribbean. The Club is located on the north shore of Mangrove Cay, which is the south shore of the Middle Bight. Mangrove Cay Club was designed to raise the bar on the level of comfort offered by a bonefishing lodge, with direct access to an amazing fishery, a beautiful setting, comfortable accommodations, excellent food, an attentive staff, professional guides, top-shelf equipment and hands-on management. The lodge is tucked just inside the Bight, providing anglers with sheltered access to the flats and estuaries of the surrounding fishery. Their guides are as comfortable coaching beginning saltwater anglers as they are hunting trophy bonefish with experienced fly fishermen. From this location, guests have access to mile after mile of prime bonefish water without ever having to trailer a boat to a launch point or take a rough boat ride in the open ocean. The lodge can access all of the waters of the Bights, the eastern flats and the remote and legendary West Side.

7 night/ 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,200.00 per person.

NORTH ANDROS FLY FISHING LODGE Nicholls Town - Andros Island, Bahamas Phillip Rolle and his experienced guide staff easily rate among the finest guides on Andros. Working in conjunction with this small, personable guest house operation, these guides primarily fish the expansive Joulter Cays fishing grounds, located on the northern tip of Andros. Lodging is in a private, comfortable house that is perfectly set up for groups of four to six anglers. The three-bedroom house is clean and nicely appointed, designed for those who care more about fishing and less about high-end amenities. Most importantly, it is only a 15 minute drive to the Lowe’s Sound boat ramp, the gateway to the Joulters where you will begin most days. An expansive area and collection of islands and small cays, the Joulters are famous for endless, white sand flats that are ideal for wading and stalking bonefish in skinny water.

When it comes to focusing on tailing bonefish and permit, Phillip’s guesthouse is the perfect base of operations and one of the best values in the entire Bahamas.

7 night/ 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,140.00 per person.

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BAHAMAS KAMALAME CAY RESORT Andros Island, Bahamas Of all the bonefish destinations found throughout the Bahamas, none offer the elegance, privacy and five-star resort amenities of Kamalame Cay. This 97-acre private island operation is the perfect retreat for couples and families seeking a totally unique, high-end Caribbean experience catering to both anglers and nonanglers alike. With several different accommodation options at Kamalame, you can custom-create the perfect amenities package for you, your family or your group of anglers. Kamalame also offers a full-service spa built high over the water – the nicest and most unique in the Bahamas. One great thing about the fishing at Kamalame is the close proximity of the fishing grounds to the resort itself. Each morning, guides leave directly from Kamalame’s marina, fishing Andros’ Northeast coast and the waters around Mastic Point. For those who wish to chase bonefish on their own, the expansive home flats on the backside of Kamalame are easily accessed via golf cart.

Pack a cooler, grab a rod and wade fish on your own!

Contact Yellow Dog for rates and details.

TIAMO RESORT South Andros Island, Bahamas A small-scale, luxury resort option that is perfect for anglers and non-anglers alike, Tiamo is one of the Caribbean’s most unique and beautiful lodge operations. Tiamo offers wonderful accommodations, gourmet food, and – most importantly – worldclass bonefishing in the most unspoiled of environments. Guests stay in private beach bungalows – quaint on the outside and comfortable within. There are no roads that lead to Tiamo, and the only way to get there is via a scenic boat ride through the sparkling waters of the Southern Bight. With a large deck and pool area and one of the best beaches in the region, this is the perfect destination for a romantic couples trip or a private Caribbean honeymoon (where you can also enjoy some of the best bonefishing in the Bahamas!).

Contact Yellow Dog for custom rates and package details.

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BIG CHARLIE’S LODGE Andros Island, Bahamas Over the past 20 years, Andros Island’s Charlie Neymour has become one of the most experienced, well-known and indemand guides in the entire Bahamas. We can tell you that when fishing the waters of Andros, Charlie and his hand-picked team of guides are the guys you want to be fishing with! Whether fishing the nearby waters of Andros’ North Bight or the remote West Side where bonefish reach trophy size, this is a guide team that delivers. Located in the small town of Cargill Creek on a piece of land overlooking the creek itself, Big Charlie’s can accommodate a maximum of eight guests at a time. If you’re searching for trophy bones and you’re willing to put in your time to catch a truly large fish, then Big Charlie’s is the operation to fish with.

7 night / 6 fishing day package (double occupancy) $3,600.00 per person.

MOUNT PLEASANT LODGE Andros Island, Bahamas While there are a large number of bonefish lodges located on Andros and all throughout the Bahamas, few offer the “do-ityourself” options, value and economy of Mount Pleasant. This long-time Yellow Dog operation overlooks the huge flats of White Bight, one of Andros’ most beautiful pieces of bonefish water. With direct wading access to mile upon mile of flats, this is a great destination for anglers looking for an inexpensive package that allows wade fishing on your own for bonefish.

For those looking for a fully guided package, Mount Pleasant can also arrange guided fishing for any or all of your days at the lodge. A great value and a beautiful destination for small groups of friends or families looking for easy fishing access in a secluded, private setting.

Self-guided packages (double occupancy) start at $210.00 per night, per person.

TWO BOYS INN Andros Island, Bahamas As the son of Ivan Neymour (one of the founding fathers of bonefishing on Andros), Frankie Neymour followed in his father’s legendary footsteps by opening Two Boys Inn fishing lodge in 2010. Located just off the water in the settlement of Andros’ Cargill Creek (directly across the street from his cousin’s lodge, Big Charlie’s) Two Boys is one of the best values found anywhere in the Bahamas. The Neymour family always takes wonderful care of Yellow Dog clients, and they know how to put anglers on the trophy bonefish that Andros is famous for. We classify this lodge as a “fishing focused” operation with simple, clean and comfortable accommodations at a great price.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,990.00 per person.

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THE SOUTHERN BAHAMIAN “OUT-ISLANDS” The Southern Out-Islands are the smaller, off-the-grid islands located in the southeastern part of the Bahamas. These outer islands and cays tend to be sparsely populated, and a visit to this part of the Bahamas is much like taking a step back in time. If you want nightlife, crowds and condos, stick to the more developed northern islands in the Bahamas.

However, if you’re looking for a remote, quiet, laid-back experience, then the Out-Islands are the place to visit. These are island destinations that are characterized by small populations of incredibly friendly people and some of the most pristine and untouched saltwater flats on the planet. Anglers can expect to find expansive white sand flats that are perfect for wading: areas that are void of other anglers and loaded with bonefish.

STELLA MARIS RESORT Long Island, Bahamas Located on the northern end of Long Island, Stella Maris is an "elegantly casual," full-service beach resort that caters to serious flats angler as well as families, large groups and non-anglers. The resort is located on a very private 3,000 acres, with a variety of accommodations and activities to suit everyone. If you’re looking for a romantic vacation, a family retreat, the next location for a corporate function or a focused, hardcore fishing trip, Stella Maris has all the bases covered. From comfortable lodge accommodations to private, four-bedroom oceanfront houses, you can customize the lodging options at Stella Maris to match the specific needs of your group. As for the angling opportunities, the bonefishing on Long Island’s uncrowded flats can honestly be described as incredible. Schools of bonefish in the Stella Maris area can number anywhere from 40 to over 400, with fish ranging in size from two to over ten pounds.

Contact Yellow Dog for custom rates and package details.

MAYAGUANA BONEFISHING Mayaguana, Bahamas A fantastic do-it-yourself trip option, a visit to Mayaguana offers great fishing for large bonefish on one of the most remote and least-visited islands in all of the Bahamas. A great laid-back atmosphere, friendly people, a high value for the dollar and a totally unique fishery that is ideally suited for experienced anglers seeking big bones and something different. Great opportunities for wading in a fishery that usually delivers size over numbers.

7 night, non-guided packages (double occupancy) start at $1,000.00 per person.

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BAHAMAS CROOKED ISLAND LODGE Crooked Island, Bahamas Crooked Island is one of the least-visited islands and most productive fisheries in the Bahamas, about as far from the U.S. mainland as one can get and still be in Bahamian waters. The location of Crooked is important when you consider that weather patterns in this area are usually warmer, more consistent and less volatile than the areas further to the north (especially during the winter months). Crooked Island Lodge is located at the tip of Pittstown Point, providing direct ocean views from every room. The lodge accommodates a maximum of ten anglers per week – something the owners believe will ensure the quality of fishing for many years to come. Aside from the fantastic numbers of bonefish in the area, permit and tarpon can be found during most months of the year, and the guides on the island are eager to fish for them. The Crooked Island fishery may be the most diverse in the entire Bahamas. The expansive lodge grounds include a pleasant swimming beach, and sea kayaks are available for guests to tour the coast and visit the historic lighthouse.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,451.00 per person.

DEADMAN’S CAY Long Island, Bahamas If you are looking for a remote, low-profile, economical flats destination, then Deadman’s Cay Lodge on the Bahamian out-island of Long Island should be high on your list. Located in the middle of Long Island, Deadman’s offers great fishing and one of the best values anywhere in the Bahamas. With very little fishing pressure in this area, you can experience consistently good fishing on thousands of acres of untouched, uncrowded flats.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,395.00 per person.

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OTHER BAHAMAS LODGE OPTIONS In addition to the Bahamian lodges featured in the preceding pages, Yellow Dog also works with several other lodge and fishing operations throughout the islands. Please visit the Yellow Dog website for full and complete details for the following lodges:

ANDROS ISLAND BONEFISH CLUB Andros Island, Bahamas One of the oldest and most famous lodges in the Bahamas, Andros Island Bonefish Club is a solid option for anglers and larger groups looking for a classic Bahamian bonefishing experience at a great value.

ANDROS SOUTH Andros Island, Bahamas A well-known and popular lodge located on the southeastern shore of South Andros Island. This area of Andros is home to an amazing number of tidal creeks and inland flats that provide the ideal habitat for bonefish of all sizes.

BAIR’S LODGE South Andros Island, Bahamas Ideal for small groups, this high-end lodge has seven guest rooms. Bair’s prime location (directly in between two of Andros’ largest inland flats systems) means long days on the water and access to great habitat—without long runs to the fishing grounds!

CAPE SANTA MARIA Long Island, Bahamas A great family and couples destination, Cape Santa Maria is located on the northwest coast of Long Island. Great for both anglers and non-anglers, this is an ideal destination for families, couples, and groups of all sizes

‘DA BAY AREA BONEFISH LODGE Andros Island, Bahamas A new addition to the Yellow Dog line-up, ‘Da Bay is located in secluded Mars Bay, the southernmost settlement on South Andros. One of the best locations and areas in the entire region!

NORTH RIDING POINT CLUB Grand Bahama, Bahamas North Riding Point Club is located on six acres of pristine, beachfront property on the southern shore of Grand Bahama. Originally a private club, North Riding is now a full service lodge in a quiet and unspoiled location.

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VENZUELA Islas Los Roques consists of 40 to 50 major islands located 92 miles off the Venezuelan mainland north of Caracas. If you count all of the small islets and coral outcroppings in the area, there are over 300 islands in the Los Roques chain, something that puts the potential size of the fishing area into perspective. The number of tailing bonefish found on the pancake flats and “classic” bonefish flats of Los Roques can be astounding. Other times, anglers can expect to walk and wade the beaches, looking for large, cruising bonefish that travel in pairs or small schools feeding on minnows and baitfish. It is not unusual for anglers fishing Los Roques to catch between 10 and 20 bonefish per day. Most bonefish on Los Roques will average 4 pounds, and larger fish are quite common. Although Los Roques is primarily a bonefish destination, you may encounter other species as well, including barracuda, tarpon, permit and more.

SIGHTCAST OUTFITTERS Los Roques, Venezuela Arguably one of the world’s most beautiful and productive saltwater destinations, the archipelago of Los Roques, Venezuela, is a protected natural marine park that is home to some of the best bonefishing on earth. Hands down, this is one of our very favorite flats destinations in the world, and we feel strongly that a trip to Los Roques should be high on list of every serious saltwater angler. We have worked with the team from Sightcast Outfitters since they first started their operation more than a dozen years ago, and we love the caliber of their guides, the long days on the water and the overall professionalism of their program.

While fishing this area, it is common to stalk bonefish by walking the beaches and flats in search of cruising fish. One of the things that makes this fishery so unique is that the large, predatory bonefish are almost always feeding aggressively on minnows – the main food source for these Venezuelan bones. And, since 95% of the fishing here is done on foot away from the boat, you’ll be right at home on Los Roques if you are someone who loves to wade. Accommodations are at Posada Acuarela, offering the nicest rooms on the island, amazing food, air conditioning, plenty of cold beer and a great location in the center of the small fishing village of Gran Roque.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $4,250.00 per person.

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CHRISTMAS ISLAND Located in the South Pacific equidistant between Hawaii and New Zealand sits Kiribati Island - the largest atoll in the world known to anglers as Christmas Island.

It takes a bit of time to get here, but once you arrive, you find a saltwater wilderness area that is absolutely massive: an area that is home to impressive numbers of bonefish, milkfish, triggerfish, giant trevally, golden trevally and numerous other species. The interior and exterior flats of Christmas Island are a mix of hard white sand, coral and turtle grass, creating the ideal setting for wade fishing enthusiasts.

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CHRISTMAS ISLAND IKARI HOUSE Christmas Island – Kiribati Yellow Dog is proud to be working with Ikiri House for all of our Christmas Island packages. Ikari is the nicest and newest operation on the island, offering comfortable air conditioned accommodations, a seasoned and experienced guide staff, good food and the closest location to the main marina area where anglers access the fishery on most days. All of the lodge’s double occupancy bedrooms feature private bathrooms with good water pressure, plenty of storage space for gear and tackle, comfortable single beds and ice-cold A/C units. The dining and social areas are outside and covered, letting you take full advantage of the cooler evenings. While this is not an upscale lodge with pillow service and flat screen TVs, it is a very comfortable base of operations for fishing this remote atoll. We have visited all four of the Christmas Island operations and we’ve found Ikari House to be the nicest option on the island for overall accommodations, cleanliness, service, food quality, location, equipment and guide team. The staff and management are always accommodating and work hard to make your visit pleasant and relaxing.

Bonefish are the main target species on Christmas Island, and they are found all throughout the flats and shallow waters of the atoll. This is an excellent destination for beginner saltwater fly anglers due to the sheer numbers of bonefish that are available.

Aside from the very dependable bonefishing, one of the things that we really love about fishing Christmas Island is the pure diversity of species that can targeted with a fly rod. The triggerfish are numerous and large, and the atoll is home to three different and unique species of triggers. The area is also home to several species of trevally, including bluefin, golden and giant. The presence and availability of trevally for the flats angler definitely makes this destination special. Trevally can be found feeding on the flats at any tide, but incoming tides and high tide are the most productive times to focus on these hard fighting gamefish. While smaller milkfish can be found on the flats, the larger milkfish are easily found in the channels and feeding in deeper waters that surround the island. The large schools of “milkies” are fished from the boat as they surf the swells in deeper water. The offshore or bluewater fishing that surrounds Christmas Island can also be productive, with strong numbers of barracuda, giant trevally, wahoo, Mahi Mahi, sharks and the occasional marlin.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $2,995.00 per person.

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INDIAN OCEAN Considered by many anglers to be the finest saltwater fly fishing destination in the world, the flats of the Indian Ocean – namely the Seychelles and St. Brandon’s Atoll - offer unbelievable wading and amazing shallow-water opportunities. When you take into account the number of species in this fishery, the seclusion, the epic scenery and the action, this is truly a saltwater fishery unlike any other on the planet. All of our Indian Ocean operations are operated and staffed by experienced and professional guides using the latest skiffs and most up-to-date equipment. Throughout these area waters you will find bonefish in extraordinary numbers,

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several different types of trevally, milkfish, triggerfish, bumphead parrotfish, permit and dozens of other reef and flats species.

Compared to the Caribbean or the Bahamas, this part of the world is by no means a quick and easy place to access. What you will find upon arrival, however, are incredibly pristine ecosystems that are basically untouched by any sort of development, traffic, or angling pressure. When fishing the area, you may feel as if you are the first person to set foot on a particular flat. In this part of the world, that may in fact be the case!

THE INDIAN OCEAN ST. BRANDON’S ATOLL Mauritius In today’s modern age, it is nice to know that there stills exists fishing destinations that are totally untouched, pristine, and exactly the way they were hundreds of years ago. Heading that list would no doubt be St. Brandon’s Atoll, an incredibly remote fishery located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Accessed via the 96-foot liveaboard ship “Gryphon” – based out of Mauritius – this is a program that offers what we believe is the finest bonefishing in the world along with great action for huge giant trevally and impressive numbers of Indo-Pacific permit. Anglers can expect large numbers of bonefish in the five to ten pound range, with even larger fish a distinct possibility. We can honestly say that St. Brandon’s is in a league of its own. Since the island chain is uninhabited, anglers base off of the mothership, which moves to different locations throughout the Atoll over the course of the week. The two seasons on St. Brandon’s run October through December and April through May. For those that love adventure, big fish, off-the-grid fisheries and totally untouched flats, then this is the trip.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages 7,200.00 Euros per person.

FARQUHAR Seychelles A fantastic, fishing-focused operation owned and operated by our friends at FlyCastaway, Farquhar is a land-based lodge operation located on the southernmost atoll in the Seychelles. Anglers are drawn to this remote and pristine ecosystem by an incredible diversity of species, including giant trevally, bluefin trevally, bonefish and the incredibly-bizarre bumphead parrotfish. The GT’s of Farquhar are impressive: large, numerous and almost always willing to chase down and smash a well-presented fly. And while the “Geets” are the main reason that many anglers come to Farquhar, other species that are regularly targeted include bonefish, bumpies, triggers, grouper, permit, milkfish and several other types of trevally.

The comfortable, air conditioned guesthouse can accommodate a maximum of ten anglers per week, and the rooms, food and equipment are all great. Perhaps the strongest attribute of the entire operation, however, is the FlyCastaway guide staff, a team that is comprised of hardcore, experienced and passionate anglers who easily rank amongst the finest guides we have fished with anywhere in the world.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $8,500.00 per person.

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ALPHONSE ISLAND RESORT Seychelles The Alphonse Group in the Seychelles is a remote and stunning chain of islands consisting of Alphonse Island, Bijoutier and St. Francois. One of the most interesting and diverse saltwater destinations in the world, this area offers a network of flats spanning an area of more than 10,000 acres – a private and controlled fishery limited to only ten rods per week. In addition to the incredible numbers of resident bonefish, the area is also home to numerous trevally species, triggerfish, permit, milkfish, barracuda and a virtually inexhaustive list of bizarre and largely-unknown flats and reef species. With a record of more than 70 different species landed on the fly, Alphonse and St. Francois collectively form what may be the most diverse fishery in the world.

On your arrival day, once you have settled in at the resort and enjoyed a cocktail, you will be able to do an exploratory trip around the island of Alphonse and fish that afternoon on your own. The home flats of Alphonse offer some of the most rewarding bonefishing you will experience all week. If the tide is right, tailing fish can be caught throughout the day and late into the evening. If you are keen on catching something other than bones, then standing on the edges of the lagoon and casting small weighted flies will produce numerous different species of snapper, grouper, bluefin trevally and the occasional GT. On normal fishing days, anglers will gather each morning at the Alphonse Fishing Center to load the “shuttle” catamaran that will take the group to St. Francois (a trip of roughly 40 minutes). On entering the St. Francois lagoon, anglers are then transferred to their skiff for the day. Guiding takes place on a rotational basis, allowing anglers to fish with a different guide each day and experience all facets of the fishery. While anglers typically fish two to a boat, a large amount of the fishing is done by wading, which means that both anglers can be fishing simultaneously.

All accommodations on Alphonse are in private chalets with ensuite baths, open air showers and direct access to the beach. For this part of the world, the resort is definitely a high-end destination, with fantastic amenities and a menu that features exceptional European and Creole food. This is a great destination for hard-core fishermen and non-anglers alike; one of the most beautiful tropical settings and beach resorts in the entire Indian Ocean.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (single or double occupancy) $8,950.00 per person.

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THE INDIAN OCEAN DESROCHES Seychelles Private Desroches Island is a luxurious Seychelles resort in the Amirante Archipelago: the perfect destination for fishermen travelling with non-fishing partners or families.

This is an exceptional, high-end destination offering a high degree of luxury coupled with impressive shallow water flats fishing and world-class bluewater action. Desroches Island fishing trips are unique in the sense that anglers have the opportunity to fish three atolls during their stay, including both St. Joseph and Poivre.

With a fantastic combination of abundant marine life and gamefish, luxurious island accommodations and diverse marine adventure, Desroches is arguably the finest saltwater resort in the entire Indian Ocean. A private island with only one resort, you are afforded out-right freedom and unrivalled seclusion, making it the ultimate paradise escape.

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and rates.

COSMOLEDO Seychelles In past years, Cosmoledo has become known as the finest Trevally fishery in the world, becoming the benchmark for anglers searching for an explosive and actionpacked saltwater flats fishing experience. The sheer numbers and variety of fish species has amazed the fly fishing world, with anglers from across the globe queuing up to sample the ultimate fishing playground. Closed for the past five years due to piracy issues, Cosmo is once again open for business – rested, rejuvenated and better than ever. Cosmoledo’s large white sand flats, lagoon edges and channels are without question ruled by the notorious giant trevally, so much so that it is often referred to as planet earth's GT headquarters. Bluefin trevally, Bohar snapper, bonefish, barracuda, milkfish, the finicky Indo-Pacific permit and a host of triggerfish species also call Cosmoledo home. Guests fish Cosmoledo utilizing the mothership "Mayas Dugong," a 150-foot former research vessel that has been upgraded and retrofitted into a live-aboard platform for long-range fly fishing expeditions 7 night / 6 day fishing packages begin at $14,950.00 per person.

ASTOVE ISLAND Seychelles A stone's throw away from Cosmoledo lies the small but incredible saltwater flats destination called Astove, long known for astonishing numbers of seriously large giant trevally. With a shallow lagoon with one small entrance that is surrounded by sheer drop-offs teeming with fish, this easily ranks among the most productive, wildest fly fishing destination on the planet. The fishing for GT’s has been so good in recent times that anglers have caught over 40 in a single session. Astove is also home to bonefish, permit, barracuda, milkfish, bluefin trevally, triggerfish, Yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna, sailfish, marlin and numerous other species. Now that the Astove runway is complete and the new Astove lodge is opened, six lucky anglers per week will have this atoll all to themselves while staying on terra firma. Each group will spend seven nights in the lodge (single occupancy) and enjoy six and a half full days fishing and exploring this remote atoll. Teams of two anglers and one guide will either wade fish or fish from a skiff, depending on the chosen fishing area, the tides and the desired species.

7 night / 6 day fishing packages begin at $14,950.00 per person.

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The Pacific coast of Central America and the waters of Costa Rica and Guatemala offer what is hands-down the finest billfishing action in the world. Scientists who have studied the large numbers of sailfish in this specific region have concluded that his coastal zone may be the largest breeding ground for Pacific sailfish in the world. All along the coast, strong rotating currents create enormous “ocean eddies” – rich with bait and pelagic fish. Sailfish, Dorado, tuna, blue marlin, black marlin, striped marlin and a large number of other species congregate in this region in great numbers. To compliment the bluewater action, inshore fishing in the region offers possibilities for roosterfish, jack crevalle and other species.

BLUEWATER BLUE BAYOU LODGE Iztapa, Guatemala Located in an area that's known as the “sailfish capital of the world,” the top program in Yellow Dog’s bluewater line-up represents what we feel is the best value and finest action in the entire world of big game fishing. Don't let the reasonable package rates fool you, as these guys fish hard, run wherever they need to find the action, and definitely know how to put their customers onto billfish. The well-appointed Blue Bayou Lodge is located just five minutes from Pez Vela Marina, where all the local lodges and charter captains begin each fishing day. The lodge’s fleet consists of 28-to-38-foot Bertrams, Albemarle and Hatteras yachts that are fully rigged for both fly and conventional anglers. Blue Bayou is American owned and managed, with USCG-captained boats with local mates and crews that really know how to get after it. With a maximum capacity of 14 anglers, the lodge features a private pool, access to a beautiful black sand beach and a well-stocked, all-inclusive bar.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages begin at $1,900.00 per person.

Please call for details.

CROCODILE BAY RESORT Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, Crocodile Bay offers what may be the finest sportfishing and adventure tour combo package found anywhere in this part of Central America. With a fleet of more than 40 fishing boats, an arsenal of high-end fishing equipment, and easy deep-water access from their 850-foot private pier, Croc Bay is the ideal location for your next bluewater fishing trip. Anglers can big-game fish for marlin, dorado, sailfish, tuna and wahoo, or focus on inshore opportunities for roosterfish, snapper, snook and more. The resort is situated on 44-acres of manicured gardens on the Golfo Dulce (Sweet Gulf) and offers anglers accommodations that are a step up from those of a standard fishing lodge. This is a great family or couples destination and one of the most complete eco-adventure-fishing options in the entire world of saltwater fishing.

3 night / 3 day fishing packages begin at $2,495.00 per person.

50 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

OTHER SALTY OPTIONS

We are proud to work with a handful of small, off-the-grid fishing lodges and operations located in areas that are not always thought of as “sportfishing hotspots.” The following lodges and fishing operations – in Baja, the Bay Islands of Honduras and Puerto Rico – all offer unique saltwater opportunities for the adventurous, globe-trotting angler.

PURSUIT ANGLERS Baja Peninsula, Mexico The Baja coastline is known for its unique beach fishing conditions, exciting shallow water action and impressive roosterfish populations. Pursuit Anglers and their talented guide team are our first choice for fishing the East Cape’s areas of Buena Vista and Los Barriles. They always work hard to create the ideal fly fishing experience and tailor every trip to each client’s experience level and expectations.

Marlin, roosterfish, wahoo, tuna, yellowtail and more are all abundant, and top notch gear, boats, captains and guides are all a part of the program. Daily or weekly packages are available and fully customizable.

Contact Yellow Dog for pricing and package details.

FLY FISH GUANAJA LODGE Guanaja, Honduras A small and intimate operation that accommodates a maximum of eight anglers per week, this small Bay Islands lodge is perfectly situated in the middle of Guanaja’s South Cayes on a small island overlooking a productive and easily-accessed home flat. The lodge is literally surrounded by bonefish and permit flats, and you can easily step off the deck, wade onto the flats and be casting to tailing fish in seconds.

While Guanaja is home to similar saltwater fly fishing as is found in other popular areas throughout Mexico and Belize, what makes Guanaja unique is that when you're there you're usually the only one fishing! With this operation, you can expect to wade about 65 percent of the time and fish out of the boat the other 35 percent.

7 night / 6 day packages (double occupancy) $3,850.00 per person.

TARPON NEST LODGE San Juan, Puerto Rico Located only ten minutes from San Juan’s historic district and the San Juan Airport, Tarpon Nest Lodge is Puerto Rico's first and only lodge that caters exclusively to anglers and their families. The 11-room lodge features new facilities and the type of modern amenities that anglers have come to expect from an all-inclusive lodge operation. As for the fishing, the waters of the San Juan area are home to impressive numbers of tarpon: fish that average 30 pounds with larger tarpon that can easily run into the triple digits. From half-day guide trips to multi-day, all-inclusive lodge and fishing packages, this is a great option for anyone who is looking to visit Puerto Rico or who finds themselves in the San Juan area for business or a family vacation.

Contact Yellow Dog for pricing and package details.

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FLY TYER PROFILE YELLOW DOG’S

BRENT DAWSON & "WARPATH FLYS"

The fly tying world is chock full of interesting characters: dedicated designers and creators who seem to be more at home in dark rooms full of fur, feathers, beads and knitting materials than in crowds of normal sportsmen. Sure, plenty of anglers tie flies for fun, and a small number are fairly serious about creating great patterns. And then there are the tyers who are completely obsessed: creative geniuses hell-bent on designing bizarre and off-the-wall flies to catch the biggest, meanest, toothiest, most exotic fish on the planet. From catching Golden Dorado to Giant Trevally, Taimen to Tigerfish, one guy’s flies are – in our book – more effective and deadlier than any others. And when it comes to destination travel and far-off places, we’re big fans of showing up with the right flies, which is why we're also big fans of Brent Dawson.

NAME: Brent “Fish Pimp” Dawson COMPANY NAME: Warpath Flys HOME: San Jose, California

52 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

Craziest place you’ve ever fished?

Hmmm. Probably Egypt on Lake Nasser or Outer Mongolia. There have been some great adventures!

lamps, numerous custom vises and several other crazy machines and the room has a fantastic “mad scientist” feel to it.

How old were you when started tying?

What are the craziest fly names you’ve used for your patterns?

I got into tying as a young kid. Flies were expensive, so I had to make my own. Over time, the patterns I was tying became more and more creative.

There’s been a few! My top three favorites are the Dr. Trout Crack Daddy, Old Slinky’s Sack Dragger, and the FoothogCorndog.

What led you down the path of professional custom tying?

What’s the next stop on your personal list of destinations?

What got me into tying custom flies actually spawned from me not having enough variety when fishing abroad. Other anglers eventually found out what I was doing and wanted some interesting custom flies for their own trips. Word got out and things grew from there.

The name “Warpath” seemed to fit, as it was synonymous with my aggressive approach to coming up with new and creative patterns.

Any place exotic and wild where I can really expand my fly arsenal. Fly design has become an obsession at this point, and developing effective patterns for each of these crazy destinations is a fun and challenging science.

What make your fly patterns special?

People invest a lot in their gear and equipment, and even more in their fishing travel. For some reason, however, too many people cut corners when it comes to sourcing and procuring the right fly patterns! When I do a custom order, I take into account such factors as durability, weight, hook quality, castability – everything matched to the angler and the destination.

I’ve spent years doing R&D and developing a brand of products tailored to catching the craziest, toughest, most exotic fish in the world. My patterns a definitely “specialty” ties compared to factory tied flies.

My patterns are designed with specific purposes in mind: tied to be fished in a certain water column or to achieve a specific action. I blend and mix a lot of materials together that at first may not seem like they would work together, and I always try to “listen to the needs” of the fish. I also believe that while a good-looking fly can force a dollar out of a wallet, it doesn’t mean it will get a reaction from a fish.

Designing for what the fish want is the key.

How does your process work when designing flies for your clients or a specific fishery?

It begins with my client telling me the details of his or her trip and the species that will be targeted. We also discuss their rod and line set-ups to make sure my flies balance with their gear. Whenever possible I then research the fishery and check with the lodge or outfitter to get as much information as I can on water conditions, fish behavior, proven patterns, common prey found in the area, etc. With all of this information the flies are drawn out on paper and then created with plenty of trial and error (and usually a fair amount of beer). I also test several flies out of each order to ensure they look right in the water, move the way they’re designed, and meet my durability standards.

Are there certain areas of the world that you really specialize in?

I can tie for any destination or species, but I would say that I am known for my patterns that focus on exotic species. Brazil, Egypt, Australia, Kamchatka, Bolivia, Mongolia, India, Bhutan, Guyana, Christmas Island, Africa, the Seychelles …. anywhere off the grid with big, crazy fish.

Describe your tying room?

My studio is a 200-square foot, one-stop, fly tying mega center. I use over eighteen vises and have other machines that help with various assembly processes. I use state-of-the-art materials, glues and coating and have equipment for airbrushing. Add in automated dubbing brush machines, commercial wire formers, dental grade fiber optic curing

How would you say your patterns differ from the patterns you might find at the local fly shop?

Strangest materials that you’ve used to make your patterns better?

Bottle caps, wig hair, make-up powder, spray paint, dental glue, parts of toys I’ve chopped up for nymph bodies, and dubbing from some of my daughter's stuffed animals (don’t tell her).

If you could chop up one Muppet from the Muppet Show to use for tying, which one would it be?

I would use Animal the drum player for sure, as his hair is a great length and the red would attract most predators. Bright red Animal-strips to make the gnarliest predator Muppet-mop ever.

Blood, head cement or spinal fluid: Which is the hardest to remove from a dress shirt?

Spinal fluid for sure. Head cement is a close second.

What tunes are playing in your tying room?

Usually country, although the Metallica definitely comes out when I'm tying the big nasties!

Drink of choice when on the vise?

Beer. And sometimes Whiskey.

What are the largest fish – that you know of – that have been caught using your flies?

The biggest fish would probably be several trophy Blue Marlin and some sizeable mako sharks (17-weight scenarios). Some tripledigit Arapaima were recently caught on my flies as well. Pretty cool to be a small part of that!

email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com • website: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com • 53

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BOLIVIA

“The ultimate freshwater fly fishing experience for the adventurous angler.”

and travel experience that is without a doubt one of the most interesting and unique in the world of destination fly fishing.

We can tell you from personal experience that this is one of the most incredible, unique, one-of-a-kind fishing trips in existence.

With two different lodging and location options, Tsimane offers anglers the world’s finest Golden Dorado fishing in small, intimate jungle waters. The Golden Dorado as a species is powerful, beautiful and totally indigenous to this region. It is a voracious fish that can be targeted and caught on the fly all throughout Tsimane’s area of operations. The rivers found throughout this area are inhabited by two different types of Dorado, the Amazon pacu, and the yatorana (pound for pound, among the strongest fresh-water species in all of South America). The remote nature of the fishing in this area, the exotic wildlife, and the overwhelming beauty of the region all combine to create an incredible angling

For the 2015 season, Tsimane has completely restructured their lodge and out-camp packages, giving anglers a choice between the Pluma/Itirizama program and the Secure program. Both are offered as standard weekly packages of seven nights with six days of fishing. In both locations, Dorado and the other jungle species are plentiful, and the fishing throughout the region presents endless opportunities for the adventurous angler. It should be noted that being able to shoot 40 to 60 feet of line, minimize false casts, and deliver a large fly in an accurate and delicate manner is a huge advantage when fishing this area. Overall, Tsimane offers what many consider to be the finest aspects of fly fishing: sight casting, freestone wading, light tackle, floating lines and huge, aggressive fish.

54 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

BOLIVIA PLUMA / ITIZIRAMA PROGRAM Isiboro Secure Indian Reservation, Bolivia The Tsimane Pluma Lodge experience is based around a main jungle lodge and two smaller headwater out-camp operations. The first out-camp is located on the upper Pluma River and the other is on the upper Itirizama River, one of the main tributaries to the Pluma. With this program, anglers have access to three different rivers: the Pluma River, the Itirizama River, and the lower Secure River. This broad variety of waters allows groups to fish new (and rested) water every day and rarely, if ever, repeat the same fishing beat over the course of a week.

The Pluma River is a moderately-sized, clear freestone river with an incredibly pristine and beautiful topography. It is more open than many of the other rivers in the area and is easier to wade due to its wide banks, mostly composed of smooth gravel and rock. In order to keep the Pluma River as virgin as possible, motors are restricted, with the exception of a small stretch where the Pluma joins the Secure River. All fishing on the Pluma is done either by wading or poling in aluminum skiffs or dugout canoes. The Itirizama is considered by many anglers to be the “jewel in the crown” of the Tsimane programs. It is similar in size and volume to the upper section of the Pluma River, but it has a steeper gradient and more rugged terrain, giving it a very different look and feel. The Itirizama runs from west to east through rugged canyons, creating the characteristics of a typical mountain stream with fast runs, rapids, waterfalls and large boulders. This is the most physically intense section of river to hike, wade and fish, but the rewards of incredibly scenic beauty and some of the largest Dorado in the area make it worth the extra effort. Size prevails over numbers, and this is a true trophy fishery. The main Pluma Lodge features four log cabins and sleeps up to eight anglers. Each cabin features two beds, private bathrooms with hot water and full electricity. The main common area offers satellite Wi-Fi and satellite phone service, and the menu focuses on delicious international cuisine paired with great Argentine wines.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $7,600.00 per person.

SECURE / AGUA NEGRA PROGRAM Isiboro Secure Indian Reservation, Bolivia With this option, guest will fish out of two very comfortable jungle lodges, both of which are limited to four rods at a time. This program allows anglers to fish on the Secure River for two and a half days from Secure Lodge with the option of one overnight at a remote headwaters out-camp. The second part of the trip features two and a half days of fishing on the Agua Negra, a smaller piece of water that is divided into lower, medium and upper sections. Anglers will also be able to fish sections of the Secure River between the Agua Negra mouth and the Pluma River mouth as well as the smaller waters of Chimoro jungle creek. Midway through the week, the four anglers who started at Secure Lodge and the four anglers who began at Agua Negra will switch, fishing their way to the respective new lodges and new accommodations for the second part of their week. Both lodge locations offer single occupancy cabins with spring box beds, private bathrooms, hot water and electricity.

Upstream from Secure Lodge, the Secure River offers crystal clear waters wedged between lush jungle mountains. This section of the river is accessed using handmade wooden dugout canoes (coambas) outfitted with push poles and small engines.

Upstream of Ashahana Creek the Secure River becomes even smaller and very rugged. There is a new out-camp in this area for anglers that want to spend the night and experience the headwaters and unspoiled reaches of the Secure River. The middle sector of the Secure River runs from Secure Lodge to the confluence of the Agua Negra River. It is typical to fish this section by wading downstream and using the dugout canoes to move from run to run. This middle stretch is shallow and open, filled with subsurface structure that provides perfect ambush points for large numbers of trophy Dorado. The Agua Negra River is an important tributary of the Secure River and is the newest addition to the Tsimane fishery. This river is roughly half the size of the Secure and is home to some seriously large Dorado and good numbers of Pacu.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (single occupancy) $7,600.00 per person.

email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com • website: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com • 55

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BRAZIL The Amazon Rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world, and the Amazon Basin is the world's largest freshwater river system.

Home to an incredible number of different plants, animals, birds and more than 3,000 different species of fish, it is one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet. The Amazon River starts high in the Peruvian Andes and flows more than 3,000 miles to join the Rio Negro near Manaus. There, these two great systems combine

to become the Lower Amazon, running all the way to the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Belem. This is the land of the peacock bass: an incredibly strong, acrobatic and aggressive gamefish that has captured the imagination of fly anglers for decades. It is a lush, jungle landscape of endless angling possibilities and an experience not to be missed.

AGUA BOA LODGE Amazonia – Manaus, Brazil Agua Boa Lodge is located on a remote and isolated stretch of the Agua Boa River, one of the 1,000-plus tributaries that feed the mighty Amazon River. Situated almost 200 miles northwest of the Brazilian city of Manaus in deep jungle, the usually clear waters of the Agua Boa flow through one of the most isolated and best-protected areas of the Amazon region. The Agua Boa is the lone fly-fishingonly designated river in Brazil, which has created an environment where large populations of trophy fish (including three different species of peacock bass) have been allowed to develop over the years without pressure from local netters or gear fishermen. As a result, the peacocks in this area are among the largest in the world.

Accommodations at Agua Boa are in spacious bungalows, each featuring A/C, two double beds and a private bathroom. The main lodge features a large dining room, bar and game room, wireless internet and a huge swimming pool that overlooks the river. This is an operation that we love for anglers who want a high-quality, highnumbers Amazon fishing experience coupled with great amenities and a classic jungle lodge setting.

7 night / 6 fishing day lodge packages start at $4,950.00 and vary by season.

RIVER PLATE OUTFITTERS Amazonia – Manaus, Brazil Since 1992, River Plate Outfitters has pioneered peacock bass fishing throughout the Brazilian Amazon while at the same time setting the standard for customer service, safety, fishing productivity and a constant commitment to exploring new and distant waters. Over the years they have created a totally unique “nomadic” infrastructure, utilizing an amazing network of float planes and highly mobile floating “cabin chains” to access distant and remote waters. These custom-built, floating accommodations allow you to cover an amazing amount of water each week by continuously moving and relocating your base of operations. You can expect to begin your fishing each day in secluded lagoons and remote areas of the river, and once you depart for your guided day on the water, the floating cabins relocate and navigate their way further upstream to new and unfished waters. River Plate is a great option for more adventurous anglers and those looking to fish for huge peacocks and other jungle species in waters that are truly off the beaten path.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,695.00 to $5,590.00 per person.

56 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

BRAZIL RIO MARIE Amazonia – Manaus, Brazil Referred to by locals as "Rio de Gigantes," Rio Marié is a newly-developed destination that may offer the finest peacock bass fishing in the world. Recent biological studies suggest that the river has more double-digit peacocks and a higher percentage of trophy peacocks than any other river in the Amazon (and perhaps the world). Located more than 350 miles by float plane from Manaus, these fish have seen zero pressure and have never been pounded by conventional tackle and lures. In fact, no one had really fished or visited this 500 mile-long river or its tributaries prior to 2014. Rio Marié is entirely located inside an extensive Indian territory of close to five million acres. The Brazilian Government has collaborated with the local native communities and the outfitters to protect the environment and create the first fly-fishing only project of its kind.

Accommodations for the 2015 season will be aboard a large, fully mobile, shallow draft yacht. The live-aboard will comfortably accommodate 10 anglers in small double-occupancy staterooms with ensuite private bathrooms and air conditioning.

There is a comfortable inside dining room and a social outside area on the top deck – the favorite gathering place for evening drinks and appetizers. Utilizing the mobility of the live-aboard, the concept is to move every day (and every week) upstream or downstream, following the good fishing conditions and staying on fresh fish in untouched waters. In this area of the Amazon, the fishing season normally runs from August to late December. This is the dry season for the upper Negro basin, the time when waters are typically at their lowest and most stable levels. The Negro Basin fisheries have variant conditions according to each year’s hydrological cycles, but since Rio Marié is a headwaters system, combined with its geographical location and the immensity of its drainage, it is much more stable than other regional destinations. During each fishing week at Rio Marie, a serious angler is bound to hook into a good number of peacock bass over 10 pounds, with legitimate opportunities for a 20-pound-plus trophy.

7 night / 6.5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $6,695.00 per person plus a $670.00 Native Community Fee.

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FRESHWATER EXOTICS If you’re looking for the wildest, most unique freshwater fishing adventures on the planet, then look no further than the operations listed below. From the African bush to the frontier border region between India and Nepal, Yellow Dog can arrange what will in all likelihood be the most exotic fishing trip of your lifetime! After all… fishing is about much more than just catching fish. It’s about the places that fishing takes us and the people, cultures and sights that we discover along the way.

TOURETTE TIGERFISHING Tanzania, Africa In one of the most remote areas of Africa, Tanzania’s Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers offer what may be the finest trophy tigerfishing found anywhere on the planet. Set deep in an untouched corner of the Tanzanian wilderness, this area is home to big game, exotic wildlife and monster tigerfish that routinely exceed 20 pounds. If you are serious about catching a trophy tigerfish on the fly, then this is place to go. Over the course of a week of fishing with Tourette, you will split your time between two camp operations on two different rivers. Both of Tourette's camps - the Mnyera and Ruhudji Camps - are simple yet comfortable tent-camps which are built and erected each season from scratch. The relatively short season on these two rivers runs from early August to mid-November, when water temperatures, levels and clarity are optimal and the trophy tigerfish begin to feed aggressively. This is a fairly rugged trip that involves a lot of travel and a fair bit of effort, but if you are serious about catching huge tigers on the fly, this is the only operation that you’ll want to fish with.

8 night / 7 fishing day packages $7,995.00 per person.

HIMALAYAN OUTBACK Northern India The Himalayan Outback is not your average fishing trip, just as the Golden Mahseer is not your everyday fish. Pursuing this selective, heavily-armored freshwater fish draws anglers into the Himalayan frontier region of northern India, where the experienced local guides from The Himalayan Outback have established a unique mobile fishing program. This is an offering that utilizes mobile tent camps and multiday floats, focusing on productive stretches of the Saryu and Mahakali Rivers on the Indian and Nepalese border. The fishing usually involves wade fishing from the bank, although on some larger stretches fishing from the raft can be productive.

Overall, a variety of presentations can be used, including skating dries, dead-drifting nymphs or even swinging spey flies with a two-handed rod. Fishing for Mahseer is in many ways similar to fishing for steelhead or Atlantic salmon. The types of water that Mahseer inhabit in the Himalayan foothills range from crystal clear, small channels and streams to large, milky glacial rivers. A journey through the outback of the Himalayas leaves fishermen with memories of more than just an exotic fishing experience; the simplicity of the region, the people encountered and the incredible landscapes are a sight unto themselves.

12 night / 7 fishing day packages start at $3,800.00 per person.

58 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

UNBE LIEVABL E P E RFO RM ANC E CR E ATES B E LIEV E R S P R E TTY Q UI C KLY.

Boron rods for every fly fishing situation.

Discover the advantage. winstonrods.com

email: info@yellowdogflyfishing.com • website: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com • 59

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ARGENTINA

With a mainland area of over one million square miles, Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world, the second largest in Latin America and the largest among Spanish-speaking nations. In fishing circles, Argentina is often referred to as the “Montana of 75 years ago” due to the similar landscapes, an abundance of productive water and fishing pressure that is considered extremely light by modern standards. The vast, mountainous and open landscape of Argentina creates a sharp contrast to the lush rainforest environment that characterizes the bulk of neighboring Chile. It is a landscape often times compared to the high deserts of the Western US and a destination that, much like Alaska and Montana, should absolutely be at the top of the “fishing bucket list” for every serious trout angler.

Throughout Patagonian Argentina, the hatch and insect activity is generally consistent throughout the summer and fall fishing seasons, which means that anglers can almost always “fish the hatch” and throw dries in addition to swinging streamers and fishing large attractor patterns. The fishing infrastructure (lodges, guides and outfitters) in areas like San Martin, Esquel, Junin and Rio Pico is the best in South America, making this a great choice for those new to trout fishing as well as those looking for a week of detailed, on-water instruction. More experienced anglers can focus on technical dry fly fishing or hunt huge trout in a variety of different scenarios. Aside from numbers, Argentina is a great place to find sizeable fish, especially on certain rivers and in a handful of lakes found throughout Patagonia. The lakes of the Rio Pico Region and of course the famous Lake Strobel (AKA Jurassic Lake) regularly deliver trophy trou: double-digit rainbows and browns that are easily among the largest in the world.

The country is noted for its amazing culture, friendly people, an abundance of excellent food (the finest steak in the world), amazing Malbecs and Pinot Noirs, and fish that are wild, strong and fast. Keep in mind that any fishing trip to Argentina should definitely be accompanied by a night or two in Buenos Aires, one of the world’s great cities. Every Argentina trip that Yellow Dog books is 100% customized according to each anglers’ needs and desires, desired time of year, budget and overall trip expectations. Rest assured that when you book your trip with Yellow Dog, you’ll always be fishing the best rivers, with the best guides at the very best times.

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ARGENTINA PATAGONIA RIVER GUIDES Esquel, Rio Pico and San Martin, Argentina Arguably the most complete, high-end and professional fishing operation in all of Patagonia, P.R.G. offers exceptional accommodations, extraordinary customer service, the best in regional wines and local cuisine and an endless frontier of incredible fly fishing all throughout this rugged and wild region. One of the things that makes the P.R.G. program so exceptional is that they utilize and offer several different fishing lodges and location options throughout Patagonia, including the classic estancias that surround San Martin de los Andes in the north, their own flagship lodge near Trevelin, and a beautiful mountain lodge further to the south in the Rio Pico region. Having these numerous locations available at all times delivers a huge advantage for extended trips by making countless rivers, streams and lakes available. The huge variety of waters, lodges and fishing opportunities offered through P.R.G. is second to none, which means that with these trips, you will be fishing the very best waters in Patagonia at exactly the right times.

No matter where you are fishing with P.R.G., every fishing day features a different river, spring creek, or lake. Patagonia River Guides utilizes both private and public waters and they have numerous streams, access points and even entire lakes under lease for the exclusive enjoyment of their guests. Some waters are floated, some are waded, and some a combination of the two depending on conditions and desires. Another of P.R.G.’s major strengths is their guide staff. Their guides average more than ten years of experience, speak excellent English and have access to an impressive fleet of trucks, boats and equipment.

We were the first booking agent to work with and represent P.R.G. and we feel strongly that this operation offers the most comprehensive fly fishing program in all of Patagonia. With ten diverse lodging choices stretching across the three most productive regions of Patagonia (Esquel, Rio Pico and San Martin de los Andes), the P.R.G. experience offers a blend of diverse fishing, beautiful scenery, interesting culture and unrivaled service. We love that the P.R.G. philosophy to fishing matches up perfectly with ours: fish the best rivers, at the best times, with the best guides.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,250 to $5,950, depending on the time of year.

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CHOCOLATE LAB EXPEDITIONS San Martin, Argentina Chocolate Lab Expeditions, based in San Martin, offers a combination of exceptional fishing, classic estanicia accommodations, private access and a full taste of the authentic culture and hospitality of Patagonia. We have worked with C.L.E. since the early days of Yellow Dog, and we consider this operation to one of the finest, most professional guide services in a region that is home to such legendary rivers as the Traful, Collon Cura, Chimehuin and the Malleo. These guides specialize in technical dry fly fishing and take full advantage of the area’s prolific hatches. The very best estancias (ranches) that offer private access to these waters are the ones that C.L.E. partners with to offer the best lodging and fishing packages in the region. Taking advantage of customized itineraries, guests stay in comfort at several different locations, enjoying a diverse line-up of area fishing, colorful local meals, and the best Argentine wines. Every trip with Chocolate Lab is 100% customized, meaning that your itinerary will be structured around your expectations, the time of year and your budget.

7 night / 6 day packages run from $3,000.00 to $5,500.00 per person.

DORADOS ON THE FLY & AMOKAGNY LODGE Corrientes, Argentina Located near the small fishing village of Ita Ibate in the northern Argentine province of Corrientes, Dorados on the Fly offers exceptional Golden Dorado fishing on the Upper Rio Parana, on the border of Argentina and Paraguay. A large tailwater river, the waters of the Parana are generally clear, which means that sight casting to fish is common. Most Dorado in the river average five to ten pounds, although larger fish in the 20-25 pound class are caught on a regular basis.

Guests stay at the Amokagny Lodge, a traditional Argentine-style estancia lodge located on the banks of the river in the small fishing village of Ita Ibate. The rooms are classic hotel-style accommodations, with air conditioning and private bathroom. Meals are “classic Argentine,” which usually means huge steaks and amazing local wines. Aside from Dorado, other available species include Pacu, Pira Pita, Dentuda (a small barracuda looking fish) and piranha. The ecosystem of the Parana is essentially a jungle environment, complete with monkeys in the trees, toucans and an amazing array of other birds and animals. This is a great destination that can be combined with another Argentine fishery such as Patagonia or Tierra del Fuego 7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,500.00 per person.

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ARGENTINA RIO MANSO LODGE Bariloche, Argentina Far and away our favorite operation in Patagonia for couples and families, Rio Manso Lodge is one of the nicest, full-service operations in the entire region. Located in the heart of Argentina's Nahuel Huapi National Park, the lodge sits on the banks of Lake Hess and the Rio Manso. In an area that is both wild and remote, the lodge is only 90 minutes away from Bariloche, making it very easy to access on a regular basis any day of the week. When fishing out of the lodge, guests have access to such diverse fisheries as the Rio Manso, Quieto, Pichi Leufu and numerous area lakes (which are home to some of the largest rainbow, brook and brown trout in the area). Because of its close proximity to Bariloche, this operation is a great option for couples’ trips, shorter Patagonian fishing packages, combo trips with non-anglers, and as an add-on to other longer Patagonian fishing adventures.

Each of the lodge’s eight rooms faces northwest, offering spectacular views of Lago Hess and the nearby Andes Mountains. Just 15 miles away from the lodge towers majestic Mount Tronador, a massive glacier-topped peak located on the border with Chile. The main living room and sitting area in the lodge (complete with a huge river stone fireplace) is where cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are served each evening. Rio Manso's professionally trained chefs pride themselves on a menu that reflects a worldly influence, with each dish featuring only the freshest of ingredients, paired with a fantastic line-up of regional wines. As far as the amenities and overall accommodations go, Rio Manso is one of the nicest, most complete lodges in all of Patagonia.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,375.00 per person.

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ESTANCIA LAGUNA VERDE Jurassic Lake, Argentina The internationally renowned Lake Strobel (known to many as the famous “Jurassic Lake”) is a 25-square mile crystal-clear piece of water that is without a doubt one of the best trophy rainbow trout fisheries on the planet. If you want to catch impressive numbers of seriously large trout in one of the most remote areas of Patagonia, then this is the place that you want to fish! The incredibly strong rainbows that reside in the lake average 8 -12 pounds, and fish in excess of 20 pounds are caught on a regular basis. Book a trip to Jurassic Lake and the chances are very good that you WILL catch the largest trout of your life.

Located on the southern coast of this huge Argentine lake, Estancia Laguna Verde is the finest and most complete lodge and outfitting operation in the area, offering fishermen private access to the majority of Lake Strobel’s shoreline, “Monster Bay” (named for the unbelievable quantity and size of fish that are caught within these protected waters), and the Barrancoso River, the only river tributary that flows into the big lake. The Barrancoso runs for more than five miles inside the Estancia’s property and is reserved for the exclusive use of E.L.V.’s guests. Accommodations are very comfortable with the main lodge being a classic Argentine estancia-style house that features five double bedrooms and a large social and dining area. Space is limited to six anglers per week, and this operation books up quickly, which means that advanced reservations are highly recommended. In this distant and remote part of Patagonia, this is far and away the finest option for great guides, huge fish and excellent Argentine hospitality.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages start at $4,800.00 per person.

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ARGENTINA ESTANCIA MARIA BEHETY Rio Grande, Argentina Located on the Rio Grande in the Tierra del Fuego region of southern Argentina, Estancia Maria Behety offers remarkable fishing, excellent guides and the finest anadromous brown trout fishery in the world. With 32 miles of access on both sides of the river and more than 100 of the finest pools on the river, there is little wonder that this is one of the most in-demand lodges in the world. Known as the "The Land of Fire," Tierra del Fuego is also the land of wind. That said, experienced fishermen find that most casts are short, and that the winding nature of the river affords ample opportunity to use the wind as an advantage. The distinctive architecture of the historic turn-of-the-century ranches of Tierra del Fuego is incorporated into the design of the lodge, where a roaring fireplace anchors the main room and the bar is well stocked with the finest Argentine wines and plenty of ice cold beer. The lodge is limited to only 12 anglers for each of the 14 weeks of the short season, which means that anglers should book this trip well in advance. A trip to Tierra del Fuego can also easily be combined with other trout lodges, estancias and outfitters in Argentina or Chile Patagonia.

7 night / 6 fishing day package (double occupancy) $5,495.00 to $6,095.00 per person.

DESPEDIDA LODGE Rio Grande, Argentina Despedida Lodge is a small, family-run sea trout operaetion owned and operated by Danny and Helen Lajous. Directly across the Rio Grande from Estancia Maria Behety, the two lodges guests share pools and developed a great system of coexistence, alternating water each day to ensure exclusivity for each and every angler. The farthest pool on the Rio Grande that Despedida fishes is only 15 minutes by truck from the lodge, something that ensures minimal transfer times and longer days on the water. A typical day will see anglers are on the water shortly after a 7:30 AM, a return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon siesta, followed by an evening session that runs from 5:30 PM until; 10:00 PM or even later. This is a great fishing-focused destination, offering long hours on the river and one of the best guide teams in the region. Compared to other Tierra del Fuego fishing lodges, Despedida (accommodating only six anglers per week), has a slightly more intimate, family atmosphere. The common areas at the lodge include a dining room, living room, and bar, and the three bedroom suites feature private baths, two double beds, and plenty of room for gear. The lodge’s professional chef prepares classic Argentine dishes and desserts paired with the very best wines from Mendoza.

7 night / 6 fishing day package (double occupancy) $5,700.00 per person

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CHILE

“Chile,” wrote Nobel Prize winner Pablo Neruda, is a country that was “invented by a poet.” Situated south of Peru and west of Bolivia and Argentina, Chile extends for over 2,880 miles in a serpentine ribbon stretching along the western coast of South America. From the parched, mineral-rich Atacama Desert in the north to the haunting spires of Torres del Paine National Park in the interior and further south to windy and inhospitable Tierra del Fuego, the country is best described as “nature on a colossal scale.” The towering ranges of the Andes cover one-third of Chile, and the landscape is often compared to the US Pacific Northwest.

Today, tourism plays a major role throughout the country, and since the 1980s, Chile has continued to develop a reputation as one of the world’s foremost destinations for freshwater fly fishing.

The Patagonian region of Chile is typically fished from midNovember through late-April, when many rivers in the north are still cold or frozen over. Spring conditions can be expected during the months of November and December, summer conditions

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January through mid-March and fall weather from mid-March through the end of April. As every trout fisherman knows, each season presents something special and distinct from the others.

Spring, for example, offers rivers at their highest flows and fish that have not seen flies or anglers in many months. The Patagonian summer offers the most consistent temperatures, the longest days and fantastic terrestrial insect hatches; without a doubt the finest dry fly fishing of the entire season. Much like July in Montana, this is the most popular time to visit and fish Patagonia. The fall season offers the beauty of brilliant colors, cooler temperatures, aggressive trout willing to chase big streamers and generally lower, clearer water conditions. All in all, the fishing seasons and typical conditions in Chile are very similar to those found in the American Northern Rockies. Cold springs, warm summers and unpredictable fall months can all offer great fishing with varying weather and water conditions.

CHILE MARTIN PESCADOR LODGE Santa Barbara and La Junta, Chile One of the finest lodge programs in all of South America, Martin Pescador's incredibly diverse program gives anglers the chance to fish out of four different lodge and camp locations, with direct access to 12 world class rivers, eight lakes, and numerous streams throughout the region. Expert fly fisherman and lodge owner Frans Jansen has used his years of experience in Chilean Patagonia to establish a one-of-a-kind fly fishing program, and over the years, he and his talented team of guides have developed a reputation for guiding anglers to some exceptionally large trout. The lodge's professional, American guides utilize a combination of jet boats, lake boats and rafts to ensure access to even the most remote and untouched waters. Careful placement of Martin Pescador's main lodges – Puerto Cardenas and La Junta – allows for flexible and convenient access to the Rio Yelcho, Futaleufu, Palena, Rosselot, Figueroa, Pico and other rivers, where you can expect to catch rainbows, browns, sea-run browns and occasionally salmon and brook trout.

A typical week-long itinerary will have you fishing the Largo Yelcho region for three days out of Puerto Cardenas Lodge before transferring to La Junta Lodge on the Rio Rosselot. Longer itineraries can also include Lago Verde Outpost Lodge, located near the border of Argentina in the XI region. This small camp operation sits atop a rocky bluff with panoramic views of the lake and access to some of the most scenic rivers found anywhere. Lago Verde, Rio Claro, Rico Pico and Rio Precioso are all waters that are accessed and fished from Lago Verde Lodge. For the more adventurous angler, the ultimate package at Martin Pescador is a 10-12 day, three location trip, allowing you to experience a variety of different areas, fish numerous waters, and catch some of the largest fish in all of Chile in a single trip.

7 night / 6.5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,950.00 per person.

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CINCO RIOS LODGE Coyhaique, Chile Situated on a high bluff overlooking the Rio Simpson on the outskirts of the historic city of Coyhaique, Cinco Rios Lodge offers one of the best locations and most established fishing programs in all of Patagonian Chile. With this beautiful, full service lodge as your base of operations for exploring the area, anglers are transported daily by four-wheel drive vehicles to rivers and streams on rides that range from 30 minutes to slightly over an hour. The lodge fishes many of the region’s most famous waters, including the Simpson, La Paloma, Mañihuales, Aysen, Megote, Guillermo and De Leon. What makes this operation unique, however, is that they also have an impressive line-up of private rivers and streams that are exclusively owned or leased by Cinco Rios. The accommodations and amenities at the lodge are remarkable, with comfortable guest rooms, a huge dining room and common area, a small bar, a full tackle shop and large decks that overlook the Simpson River canyon and the surrounding area. Expect seasoned, experienced guides, first-rate equipment, beautiful accommodations and some of the best food and wines in all of Chile.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,395.00 per person.

ESTANCIA DEL ZORRO Coyhaique, Chile Chilean Patagonia's Estancia del Zorro is in a remote and secluded area in the Coyhaique Alto mountain range on the Chilean-Argentine border, 23 miles from the city of Coyhaique, Chile. This 15,000-acre working estancia – owned by nearby Cinco Rios Lodge – offers guests the chance to fish and explore intimate and incredibly productive waters in both Chile and Argentina. Explore the canyons, mountains and waters of the area as you’re guided on these private rivers and spring creeks that can hold browns up to 12 pounds. Guests typically alternate fishing locations during the course of the week, fishing one day in Chile and the next crossing the border to fish in Argentina. The Estancia is a full service lodge operation that can accommodate up to 12 guests per week. Peaceful and secluded, this area is also a birdwatcher's paradise and home to impressive numbers of Andean condors, ibis, torrent ducks and pink flamingos. The condor watching on the high cliffs of the Estancia may be the best in the world!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,975.00 per person.

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CHILE NOMADS OF THE SEAS Puerto Montt, Chile To say that Nomads of the Seas offers a one-of-a-kind, totally unique Patagonian fishing and adventure package is a massive understatement. With the versatility of their 150-foot live-aboard vessel “The Atmosphere,” a complete aero-maritime transportation system and the expertise of the guides and crew members, Nomads can deliver a high-end air, land and water adventure unlike anything found in the world. The Nomads fishing program relies on a multi-tiered transport system that includes two Bell 407 helicopter and literally dozens of jet boats, drift boats, high-tech Zodiacs and portable, packable NRS fishing rafts. Nomads’ mothership platform offers the perfect combination of substantial exploration capabilities and high-end, full-service live-aboard accommodations and amenities. Its overall capacity is 28 passengers (including a maximum of 18 anglers) along with an additional 32 crew members. Each cabin on the ship (10 twin cabins and 4 double cabins) has been specially designed to give passengers a very high degree of privacy and comfort coupled with five-star, attentive service every step of the way. We can promise you that there is nothing else in the world of destination angling that rivals the Nomads experience.

Having the privilege to reach spots which are rarely touched and pretty much inaccessible by other anglers is just one of the many amazing aspects of this angling experience. The fishing program is organized into a variety of different daily outings, each of which includes one guide for every two fishermen, and access to all types of waters. A recent addition to the fishing program is a full inventory of portable NRS fishing rafts, allowing new and increased access to numerous coastal rivers, crystal clear backcountry rivers, and moving waters that no other outfitter in the region can even begin to access. Aside from the fishing, Nomads’ Wildlife Adventures Program is designed to allow non-anglers to discover Chilean Patagonia along with expert guides. Guests travel deep into Patagonian territory to explore the mysteries that this region has to offer, as well as enjoy specialized expeditions like trekking, sea and river kayaking, panoramic flights, whale watching, high-speed zodiac rides, hot springs fly-ins, catered mountain-peak lunches and numerous other amazing activities.

Week-long packages start at $11,300.00 per person.

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REMOTA RESORT Puerto Natales, Chile This is an amazingly unique resort that we highly recommend for couples and families looking to combine great fishing with a visit to Southern Chile and the Torres del Paine area. The resort was designed by Chilean architect Germán del Sol, and the lodge’s overall look and layout is simply stunning. Remota is an incredibly unique, multi-level building with long, uniquely-shaped windows, numerous fire pits, lounging areas everywhere, a heated indoor swimming pool, an open-air Jacuzzi and a private spa area. All 72 rooms have a view of Ultima Esperanza Bay, the nearby Balmaceda Glacier and the Paine Mountain Range. The restaurant is exceptional, where local produce and fresh seafood is paired with Chilean wines from an extensive cellar. This is an area of Patagonia that is rarely visited and almost never fished: an area that is in many ways completely "off-the-grid." The rivers fished by the guides of Remota are pristine, productive and diverse, and the majority of fisheries are accessed by walking and wading. The fish in the area are unpressured and usually willing to eat, averaging 14" and sometimes reaching over 22" in size.

For anglers looking for some place new and different, this option definitely qualifies!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,760.00 per person.

PATAGONIAN BASECAMP Northern Aysen Region, Chile Situated on the banks of the majestic Rio Palena, Patagonian BaseCamp Lodge is the kind of operation where hardcore anglers, non-fishing spouses, first-time fly fishermen and family members will all feel equally at home. If you’re looking for a great “first time” Patagonian experience, then this is a great option. This personable, family-run lodge is centrally located in close proximity to numerous world-class rivers and lakes.

The trout throughout this area – both browns and rainbows – are wild and aggressive, and you can expect to catch lots of fish in the 12-20 inch range, with trout in the 20-25 inch range found on a regular basis. The American guides at the lodge are seasoned professionals: the same caliber of professionals that you typically find at the better lodges in Alaska and throughout the Western U.S. The beautiful, custom-built main lodge features six double rooms that can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests per week, and the heart of the lodge is the common area situated around the huge, handcrafted fireplace. As an add-on to a standard week, anglers can also visit BaseCamp’s Temple Camp, a unique and comfortable out-camp with spacious igloo-shaped tents on elevated wood platforms situated on the banks of the Rio Figueroa.

7 night / 6 fishing day package $5,995.00 per person.

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MUST-READ ADVENTURE BOOKS FOR 2015 SINCE THE YELLOW DOG

team spends a lot of time traveling and visiting the many different operations we represent, we end up with a lot of down time while stuck on airplanes and sitting around in airports! With that in mind, we’re always adding to our “must read” list of our favorite travel books. While not all books on the list are fishing-focused, each can undoubtedly be appreciated by those who love to travel and those who appreciate great adventure. Following in the footsteps of last year’s line up, we are pleased to present the 2015 list of recommended essential books for the well-read, globe-trotting, traveling angler.

ALASKA WILDERNESS by Robert Marshall The great conservationist Bob Marshall spent much of the 1930s exploring Alaska’s Brooks Range. And then they named the greatest wilderness area in Montana after him. Not bad.

MY LIFE AS AN EXPLORER by Roald Amundsen The job

ANNAPURNA by Maurice Herzog No one had ever climbed

THE LONGEST SILENCE by Thomas McGuane One of

an 8,000-meter peak when Herzog led a team of accomplished French climbers to Annapurna in 1950. Herzog made it to the top, but on the descent, disaster.

COMING INTO THE COUNTRY by John McPhee

title that all of us would love to have: Professional Explorer. Amundsen was the first to sail the Northwest Passage and also beat Scott to the South Pole. Quite the life. our favorite writers and arguably the greatest Montana author. In 33 essays, McGuane takes us around the world pursuing fish in a tale that reads more like fiction than fact.

McPhee writes beautifully of his passion for the Alaskan backcountry while taking a hard look at the many misguided attempts to manage the Last Frontier’s natural resources.

PALE MORNING DONE by Jeff Hull Probably not destined to be a classic, but still a great fictional read about Montana rivers, fishing guides and the fly fishing industry. A fun book to read, especially if you ever spent time as a professional guide.

EXPLORATION OF THE COLORADO RIVER

THE PERFECT STORM by Sebastian Junger The incredible

by John Wesley Powell Powell lost most of his right arm fighting for the Union, but that didn’t stop him from leading the first descent of the Grand Canyon … in 1869 … in wooden boats.

THE GREEN HILLS OF AFRICA by Ernest

tale of Massachusetts fishermen caught in the crosshairs of a “once-in-acentury” Nor’easter. A story of hard luck, loss and heroism.

ROBINSON CRUSOE by Daniel Defoe You probably read it

game-hunting, globe-trotting man’s man.

when you were a kid. Time to read it again. The famous account of a castaway who survives on a remote island (that may or may not have been in the Bay Islands of Honduras).

GRIZZLY YEARS by Doug Peacock

Peacock is one of the world’s leading experts on the grizzly and has had more encounters with these massive creatures than arguably any other living American.

ROUGHING IT by Mark Twain Twain headed west when the Civil

INCIDENTS OF TRAVEL IN YUCATAN by John

WE DIE ALONE by David Howarth In 1943, Norwegian commandos sailed into a Nazi trap on the coast of Norway. Only Jan Baalsrud survived, and this book tells the story of his escape. It’s a great survival tale (and the good guys win).

Hemingway The book that made Hemingway famous as a rugged, big-

Lloyd Stephens Imagine hacking your way through thick jungle, racked

with malaria, in a country on the brink of civil war. You discover, despite all this, the lost city of Tikal. And 43 other Maya ruins.

KON TIKI by Thor Heyerdahl An epic 1947 journey across the ocean on a balsa wood raft in an attempt to prove the South Pacific could have been peopled by natives of Peru. Read it before you see the movie!

MAN-EATERS OF KUMAON by Jim Corbett Corbett was an Indian-born Englishman who became legendary for his ability to track and kill man-eating tigers and leopards in India. He also fished for Golden Mahseer. This is old-fashioned storytelling at its best.

War began, spending six years on the wild frontier. Roughing It is the record of that time, full of outrageous characters and events.

THE WETTEST COUNTY IN THE WORLD by Matt Bondurant Bondurant features his grandfather and two grand-uncles as the main characters in the novel, which tells of the trio bootlegging moonshine during the Depression and Prohibition in rural Virginia.

WIND, SAND AND STARS by Antoine de SaintExupery From flying mail over the Sahara Desert to exploring the Andes Mountains, adventure tales from one of the most daring, exciting pilots in the history of aviation.

LAST YEAR’S 2014 LINE-UP OF MUST-READ BOOKS: THE BIG SKY by A.B. Guthrie, ENDURANCE by Alfred Lansing, A GOOD DAY TO DIE by Jim Harrison, IN PATAGONIA by Bruce Chatwin, INTO THIN AIR by John Krakauer, ISLANDS IN THE STREAM by Ernest Hemingway, THE JOE PICKETT BOOKS by C.J. Box, NINETY-TWO IN THE SHADE by Tom McGuane, THE RIVER OF DOUBT by Candice Millard, THE RIVER WHY by David James Duncan, A SHORT WALK IN THE HINDU KUSH by Eric Newby, Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, UNDAUNTED COURAGE by Stephen Ambrose.

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ALASKA On January 3, 1959, President Eisenhower signed the official declaration making Alaska the 49th state. Covering over 371 million acres, the “Land of the Midnight Sun” contains one-fifth the total land mass of the Lower 48, more than half of America’s national park land, more that 80% of America’s national wildlife refuge land and more world class fishing water than a person could possibly fish in a lifetime. Even today, a trip to Alaska feels like a journey to a far-off and exotic country: a destination that feels like it should require a passport!

Once an angler has decided to plan a trip to Alaska to experience all that this amazing region has to offer – the huge rainbows, the grizzlies that are more than happy to share their waters, the runs of salmon so thick you can almost walk across their backs and the incredibly long fishing days in a land where the sun hardly sets – the most important question becomes: “WHERE exactly do I go?”

A quick search on the web produces a mile-long list of different Alaskan lodges and outfitters, all claiming to be the best and all showing plenty of photos of anglers lifting fat, trophy fish and smiling broadly at the camera. With so many options, how do

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you begin to narrow down the list and ultimately choose the right lodge or operation?

Here at Yellow Dog, we have assembled a solid and diverse list of lodge and outfitting options. We feel strongly that we have the finest Alaskan line-up in the business. When working with you on planning and researching an Alaskan trip, our goal is to give you the best, the most realistic and the most honest information available to help you make your final decision. With the experience that the Yellow Dog staff has in Alaska and our first-hand knowledge of each and every Alaskan lodge that we work with, we’ll create an itinerary and a trip package that more than lives up to your expectations.

From high-end fly out lodges to remote tent camps to overnight float trips in the Alaskan bush, our Alaskan operations are the very best at delivering great fishing, personalized service and a fantastic overall wilderness experience. With a short summer season, an overall price tag that is a bit higher than other destinations and a distinct difference in quality between the numerous lodges and outfitters throughout the state, be sure that you plan and organize your trip the right way.

ALASKA NO SEE UM LODGE Iliamna Area, Alaska One of Yellow Dog’s all-time favorite operations, No See Um Lodge sits directly on the banks of Alaska’s famous Kvichak River, surrounded by thousands of miles of pristine waters, wilderness and world-class fishing. No See Um has definitely earned the reputation as being one of Alaska’s finest fly-out lodges, and we believe that this operation is completely in a league of its own. With three Beaver float planes and a fleet of jet boats, No See Um fishes the Kvichak, Moraine, American, Kulik, Funnel, Brooks, Battle, Ku, Talarik and numerous other waters throughout the season. The key things about having THREE Beavers for only 12 guests is that (A) guests have the option of flying every single day, and (B) the planes stay with anglers all day long.

This is something that allows for rapid movement and the ability to quickly relocate or head to another destination or river if the fishing conditions, fish numbers, weather, etc. dictate. Simply put, the No See Um guides and pilots will always fly wherever they need to be fishing and will do everything they can to keep you in great fishing all day long, each and every day of your trip.

Located 300 miles southwest of Anchorage in the world famous Bristol Bay watershed, the lodge complex includes two large guesthouses with a total of six bedrooms. Each bedroom has two twin beds and a private bathroom. With an excellent view of the river, you can relax in your room after a long day of fishing, enjoy the comfortable main lodge building with a full complimentary bar, or sit streamside in the Jacuzzi. Other amenities include internet access, a full line-up of demo equipment and 24-hour electricity.

7 night / 6.5 fishing day packages $9,000.00 per person.

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ALASKA KULIK LODGE Katmai National Park, Alaska Since 1950, Kulik Lodge has been providing anglers with the finest Alaskan freshwater fishing available. The lodge is situated on the banks of the Kulik – handsdown one of the top trout rivers in the world. It is the only operation located on this famous river, which means that the "home waters" for the lodge are the same waters that many of the area's other high-end lodges fly in and out of each day! With every Kulik package, anglers can fish a long day via jet boat on the lodge’s home waters, fly-out to one of the area’s numerous rivers, or create a combination of the two for a completely customized itinerary. With numerous aircraft, experienced pilots and a seasoned team of professional guides, Kulik offers guests access to fishing that is out of this world.

Kulik is a part of the original “Angler’s Paradise” collection of lodges – the first fly-out sportfishing lodges in all of Alaska. The historic main lodge at Kulik, originally built in the late 1950's, boasts a large common room with a stone fireplace, surrounding couches for lounging and relaxing, a main dining area and a full complimentary bar stocked with cocktails, wine and beer. Individual and free-standing guest cabins all face Nonvianuk Lake and are equipped with space heaters, showers and private bathrooms. Their prime location as the only lodge on the Kulik River means that there is also evening fishing available after dinner for additional hours on the water. We promise that you will not find another lodge anywhere in Alaska that allows you to fish as long and hard as you want in the “Land of the Midnight Sun.” 7 night / 7 day packages (double occupancy) start at $5,695.00 per person.

BROOKS LODGE Katmai Park, Alaska Located at the gateway to Katmai National Park, Brooks Lodge is the ideal location for both the do-it-yourself angler and as a family destination for those looking to do more than simply fish.

This historic lodge famous for its bear viewing sits on the shores of Naknek Lake, adjacent to the productive (and bear-heavy!) fishing waters of the Brooks River.

GROSVENOR LODGE Katmai Park, Alaska Owned and operated by Kulik, this remote and very private small-lodge operation is located on the narrows between Grosvenor Lake and Colville Lake. With a maximum of only six anglers per week, guests can expect total seclusion, comfortable accommodations, and excellent fishing for rainbow trout, char, lake trout, pike and sockeye salmon.

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EGDORF’S WESTERN ALASKA Nushagak River – Southwestern Alaska Western Alaska Sport Fishing is an “on-the-spot” tent camp that has been in continuous operation since 1982. This is a high-value, no-frills wilderness operation that focuses on hard-core fishing in a pristine, isolated wilderness setting. The remote riverside camp location is enhanced by regular sightings of wildlife and great homewater pools for extended fishing after dinner each night. Over the years, Dave, Kim and Camille Edgorf have built a reputation for operating as one of the finest wilderness fishing operations in Alaska: an organization and a fishing program that is often referred to as “the real Alaska experience.” The remote camp has all the basic essentials for a relaxed Alaskan stay, including a full kitchen and dining area, showers, privy latrines and comfortable tented guest quarters. Sleeping arrangements are two guests per 8’ x 10’ Weatherport tent, all of which feature mattresses on sleeping cots and electrical outlets. Sleeping bags are provided, along with clean linens, pillows, washcloths and towels. The best price point in our entire Alaska line-up!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $4,895.00 per person.

MISSION LODGE Lake Aleknagik, Alaska Located on the banks of picturesque Aleknagik Lake near Dillingham, Mission Lodge is hands-down one of the nicest, best-run operations in Alaska. In a region that is loaded with fishing options, Mission’s fly-out fishing program covers an area up to 120 miles in every direction utilizing three DeHavilland Beaver float planes.

These daily fly-outs are included in all weekly packages and are an integral part of Mission’s fishing program. Mission also has permits in the Wood-Tikchik National Refuge Area, making this one of the most diverse fishing programs in all of Alaska.

The guest rooms at the lodge are spacious and comfortable, and the bar, dining room and common areas are exactly what you would expect from a high-end Alaskan operation. Mission Lodge has been serving guests since 1984, and their thorough attention to detail has definitely set the standard for other Alaskan lodges. This is a great option for groups, couples, non-anglers and hardcore fishermen alike.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $8,100.00 per person plus 5% tax.

RIVERSONG LODGE Lake Creek Area, Alaska Located only 70 air miles northwest of Anchorage at the confluence of the Yentna River and Lake Creek, Riversong is great destination for a one-day fishing trip, a quick weekend excursion, or a multi-day add-on to compliment a longer Alaskan lodge package. Accessed via floatplane, the lodge offers great home-water fishing for all five species of salmon as well as arctic grayling, pike and prolific numbers of rainbows in the waters of Lake Creek. Guests can arrive or depart any day of the week and are able to stay as long as they like. Nestled among cottonwood, birch and spruce trees under the distant gaze of rugged and majestic mountains, Riversong offers guests a high level of wilderness comfort, amazing cuisine and a diverse fishery – all a short and easy trip from Anchorage. Under new ownership and management as of 2014, this is an operation that we really like for families, couples and those looking for a quick and easy Alaskan fishing experience.

4 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,010.00 per person.

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ALASKA ALASKA CHARTER SERVICE Southeast Alaska The “C/V Adventurous,” a mothership that calls these waters home, is a 56-foot live-aboard vessel designed and built specifically for diversity, mobility and comfort. And since the coast of Southeast Alaska is home to a thousand islands, very few roads and more than 300 rivers and streams, this is a part of Alaska that is best explored by sea. This mobile fishing platform gives you the opportunity to leave behind crowded fishing grounds as you embark on a five day live-aboard excursion. The Adventurous provides access to remote and untouched fishing opportunities for all five species of salmon, halibut, a plethora of bottom fish species and – most importantly – strong numbers of trophy steelhead each spring. The ship features three staterooms (each with double beds), a main salon and a full kitchen. With all of the required amenities, a professional crew and gourmet meals, this is a great option for small groups of up to six anglers interested in fishing hard.

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and package pricing.

ALASKA RAINBOW ADVENTURES FLOAT TRIPS Bristol Bay, Alaska While many of our clients that visit Alaska want lodge-based fishing packages, others are looking for a more remote, on-water, wilderness camping experience. For that reason, we offer all-inclusive float trip packages through Alaska Rainbow Adventures, an experienced outfitter operating multi-day excursions on some of the finest rivers in the state. Paul Hansen, owner of A.R.A., has used his nearly thirty years of guiding experience and floating knowledge to design trips for the angler who is seeking that intangible “something more” from an Alaskan fishing adventure. This is an opportunity for anglers to experience the Alaskan bush in a way that most people can only dream about. Each A.R.A. trip is custom-tailored based on the species you wish to fish for, your available time to travel, the particular waters you are looking to fish, your budget and several other factors. Accommodations on the river are in highend tents, and the guides take great pride in delivering a menu that has been crafted and modified through years of experience in the Alaskan wilderness.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $3,995.00 per person.

MIDNIGHT SUN TROPHY PIKE ADVENTURES Yukon Drainage, Alaska If you love violent, explosive strikes, great acrobatics and trophy-sized creatures caught on a 9-weight, then fly fishing for Northern pike should be high on your bucket list. And if you want the finest pike fishing in the world with regard to both numbers and size, then Midnight Sun Trophy Pike is an operation you will definitely want to visit. Fishing more than 350 river miles of the remote Yukon Drainage, these guys are the only ones operating in this entire fishery. Their seasoned, professional guides provide a level of experience, knowledge and enthusiasm that ensures the trip of a lifetime, and the average catch-rate throughout the season sees each angler landing more than 10 fish over 40 inches per week. On top of that, at least 50% of clients land fish over 45 inches during their week. Accommodations are aboard a 67-foot, custombuilt houseboat with four private staterooms, two bathrooms, dining and lounge areas and several outdoor decks. You can expect great food, all-inclusive beer and wine, comfortable accommodations and non-stop action! Since this operation takes only four anglers per week, we recommend that anglers book this trip as far in advance as possible.

6 night / 6 day packages $4,200.00 per person.

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TORDRILLO LODGE Denali Region, Alaska Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is one of our very favorite locations in all of Alaska for families, couples and kids as well as anglers looking for a unique alternative to fishing the Bristol Bay area. This beautiful, high-end Alaskan adventure-fishing operation is located on quiet Judd Lake in the heart of the Alaska Range, a short 45-minute flight from Anchorage. The lodge is situated at the headwaters of the Talachulitna River, home to solid runs of Kings, sockeyes and silvers, as well as strong numbers of resident rainbows and char. There are numerous other rivers and creeks that are accessed utilizing a combination of boats, helicopters and float planes and then walk-waded with your guide. Easily accessed from Anchorage, the lodge offers all types of packages, from short, two-day trips to week-long itineraries.

Owned and operated by former professional skiers, the lodge also offers incredible summer action-adventure trips featuring prime-season King salmon fishing, cornsnow helicopter skiing, and whitewater rafting – all on the same trip! With incredible food, beautiful accommodations, great home water fishing and a large line-up of non-angling activities to compliment the fishing, Tordrillo is one of our very favorite locations in all of Alaska for families, couples and kids.

6 night / 6 day packages begin at $5,600.00 per person. Call for details.

BEAR TRAIL LODGE Naknek River – King Salmon, Alaska Bear Trail Lodge—the sister lodge to Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge—is located on the banks of the Naknek, a river that was named the “#1 Rainbow Trout River in Alaska”

by Fish Alaska Magazine. This amazing river is home to all five species of Pacific salmon as well as some of the largest rainbow trout in all of Alaska. Guests at Bear Trail have unlimited access to this amazing fishery, as well as daily fly-out options to the other famous rivers throughout the region. The Bear Trail complex consists of a comfortable and inviting main lodge, large dining room, relaxing living room, full bar area, and several large decks (one with a hot tub) that overlook the river. Each of the lodge’s private cabins are spacious and comfortable, and the entire lodge is connected by a boardwalk trail that is elevated 70 feet above the river.

4 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,995.00 per person.

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ALASKA ENCHANTED LAKE LODGE Katmai Region, Alaska For more than 50 years, Enchanted Lake Lodge has provided anglers with incredible fishing experiences, exceptional guides and high-end accommodations in one of the most beautiful settings found anywhere in Alaska. Located in the heart of Katmai National Park – one of the most prolific trout and salmon fisheries on the planet – Enchanted Lake has established its reputation over the years for “delivering the very best that Alaska has to offer.” Originally built in 1961 and remodeled from the ground up in 2002, the lodge hosts a maximum of 12 guests per week. The lodge’s intimate and remote setting features private cabins, a beautiful main lodge with a full bar, two viewing decks, a main dining area, and a fully outfitted tackle shop. Enchanted Lake’s staff prides itself on the personal attention and service given to each guest, as well as being a “rainbow focused” fishing destination. A day on the water with one of the lodge’s seasoned and experienced guides will impress even the most seasoned angler. Because the lodge is situated so close to many of these productive rivers, aircraft and flight time is kept to a minimum, with as much time spent on the water as possible. Fishing options include the Kulik, American, Brooks, Battle, Big and Little Ku, Moraine, Funnel, Kvichak and many more.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages $9,250.00 per person.

ALASKA WEST WILDERNESS TENT LODGE Kanektok River, Alaska We consider this operation to be one of the very best values in all of Alaska – especially when you consider the diversity of the fishing, the caliber of the guides and lodge staff and the quality of the lodge’s overall fishing program. The Kanektok River – home waters for Alaska West – is arguably one of the best places in the world to target king and silver salmon and the famous Alaskan "Leopard Bows" – spectacularly colored rainbow trout named for the amazing profusion of spots that cover their body. Other available species include Dolly Varden and grayling, as well as all five species of Pacific salmon. This is an operation that over the years has become well-known and popular with anglers that love spey rods and swinging flies for fresh, aggressive salmon. Accommodations while at Alaska West are in comfortable, sturdy Weatherport-type tents with carpeted wooden floors, heat, electricity and beds with comfortable mattresses. Hot showers, sinks with hot and cold water and outhouses are also provided. This is a great option for those seeking a high-value trip, anglers looking to target kings and silvers, and those who want to swing flies on spey rods.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,995.00 per person.

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SEVEN THINGS I LEARNED (WHILE GUIDING IN ALASKA) by Camille Egdorf As the only child of Alaskan lodge owners Dave and Kim Egdorf, Camille was casting, fishing, running jet boats, flying float planes, hunting bears, tying flies and basically learning how to be a wilderness bad-ass when most girls her age were worrying about what to wear to the junior high dance. During the winter she lived in a small, Montana town nestled along the banks of the Big Horn River, where her family owned and operated a hunting and fishing lodge. Once summer hit, she migrated north to Alaska, where she and her parents ran a guided trout camp on the Nushagak River in Bristol Bay. At the age of 18, she began guiding professionally. She's traveled to the Amazon for peacock bass, Christmas Island for bonefish, and continues to host trips for Yellow Dog around the world. We asked her to share with us some of the things she’s learned while guiding in Alaska, as well as her key travel tips when preparing for a fishing adventure in the Land of the Midnight Sun.

1 BEARS ARE NOT MAN EATERS. One of the biggest misconceptions I’ve experienced while guiding in Alaska, is the belief that humans are at the top of a bears' favorite food list. Not true. Actually it couldn’t be further from the truth. While bears certainly deserve respect, attention and space, they’re most likely just as afraid of you as you are them. Now, if you find yourself between a sow and her cubs, different story. I’ve watched sows charge airplanes when it comes to protecting her young. So with that said, be wary, be loud and be smart. If you encounter a bear, odds are that it’ll either smell or see you and take off. If it doesn’t, back away slowly (do not run) make noise and be willing to give up your fishing hole.

2 LISTEN TO YOUR GUIDE. This is probably the wisest and most important thing I’ve learned from guiding. If you’ve traveled the world, fished the

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remotest of rivers and caught the rarest of species, all of that means nothing when you’re fishing a new river. Which is the sole reason why you hired a guide in the first place! So do yourself and your guide a favor, listen to what they have to say. If they tell you to “cast over there” or “use this fly”, do it. You’ll be surprised by how many more fish you catch!

3 MOSQUITO SPRAY You ever go on a camping trip and the one, most important thing you forget to bring is toilet paper? Well, I hate to admit it but mosquito spray is that one, most important item you DON’T want to forget when going to a remote area in Alaska.

Trust me when I say that going to the restroom in the bushes of Alaska can be life changing. A good way to test if your bug repellent works is too slap some on your face. If your face begins to tingle and your lips go numb, it’s good. Just be sure not to spray it around your sunglasses or fly line. The deet will literally melt all the plastic coating off.

6 EVERYTHING IS WEATHER DEPENDENT (WE CAN’T CONTROL THE WEATHER) I once had a client ask me who mowed the tundra...you can imagine my reaction. So, going along with the fact that no one mows the tundra in the great state of Alaska, we also have no way of knowing, predicting or changing what the weather does. As a result, everything we do is weather dependent. One minute the weather can be beautiful and the next it can be a nasty, windy, cold and an unpleasant place. So it’s important for guests and guides to understand they have to be willing to go with the flow. There are elements that are completely out of our control and we have to be understanding of that fact. Weather delays are eminent in Alaska and waiting out a storm is purely for the safety of the guest and the pilot.

7 IT’S MORE THAN JUST THE FISHING Fishing can take us to places we never thought we’d see and do things we never thought we would. I can totally understand the urge to fish hours upon hours, days upon days for the catch of a lifetime. However, there comes a time where we have to sit back and fully enjoy our surroundings. There’s so much more than just the fishing. Learn to experience not only the epic fishery but the wildlife, the scenery around you and the time you have with friends and family.

4 TIPPET SIZES Leave the 4x and 5x back on the Henry’s Fork. This is no place for the intricate, dainty flies where the perfect presentation will dictate an eat or not. I’ve used nothing but 15lb maxima for my leaders and not once have I seen a refusal solely due to the size of my tippet. The heavy tippet also adds insurance for your flies. It’s not unusual to fish underneath logs, sweepers and in deep holes where your fly runs through a gauntlet of snags. Having the heavy poundage allows you to retrieve and save countless numbers of flies.

5 BOOZE IS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE There’s no such thing as a cheap drunk in this state. A six pack of Bud Light will leave you with buyer’s remorse until you drink the first beer. You can nearly feel your wallet shrinking just at the thought of it. So with that said, I highly recommend you bring your own booze on your trip. Just don’t send it through the post office because that’s frowned upon these days. Another piece of advice is to bring three times as much as you think you’ll drink. I’ve seen guys down five bottles of wine and two 18 packs in two days and then beg my father to fly into Dillingham just to bring more booze. So bring a little extra and if you have some leftover, the guides will be more than happy to take it off your hands. Better to have and not need, then to need (or want) and not have.

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KAMCHATKA The ultimate freshwater fly fishing experience for the adventurous angler. We can tell you from personal experience that this is one of the most incredible, unique, one-of-a-kind fishing trips in existence.

With a two-lodge, multi-camp and multi-river infrastructure, Tsimane offers anglers the world’s finest Golden Dorado fishing in small, intimate waters that usually run as clear as any trout stream found in the Western U.S. The Golden Dorado as a species is powerful, beautiful and totally indigenous to this region. It is a voracious fish that can be targeted and caught on the fly all throughout Tsimane’s area of operations. The small jungle rivers found throughout this area are inhabited by two different types of Dorado, the Amazon pacu, and the yatorana (pound for pound, among the strongest fresh-water species in all of South America). The remote nature of the fishing in this area, the exotic fish, bird and wildlife species that live here, and the overwhelming beauty of the region all combine to create an incredible angling and travel experience that is without a doubt one of the most

interesting and unique in the entire world of destination fly fishing.

Even though Dorado in Tsimane’s area waters are plentiful, the fishing in these rivers presents a number of enticing challenges (as well as opportunities) for the angler. And although Golden Dorado are voracious, savage hunters, they are not always easy to catch. As with most fishing situations, the element of surprise is something that anglers will want to take full advantage of. These fish are almost always easily put down if spooked, so every pool and run must be carefully approached, well-planned, and well fished. Working closely with your guide will help maximize each opportunity. In most situations, Dorado are caught when they are feeding or hunting, unaware of an angler’s presence. That said, their “eats” and their attacks can be very swift and sudden, so accurate casts and timing become important variables. Being able to shoot 40 to 60 feet of line, minimize false casts, and deliver a large fly in an accurate and delicate manner is a huge advantage when fishing this area.

THE BEST OF KAMCHATKA – TWO YURT RIVER

Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia

The Two Yurt River float trip offers an amazing wilderness experience and the world’s finest fishing for rainbow trout, char and Asiatic Grayling. Over the course of this week-long float trip, a maximum of six anglers per group move downstream each day with the guides and the rafts, fishing anywhere from five to ten miles per day.

Overnight accommodations and camp locations change each night, with each fixedcamp location featuring two-person A-frame-style cabins that are warm, comfortable and dry. In-camp amenities at each location include a flush toilet, a wood-fire heated shower, a common dining area and evening campfires. This is a rustic wilderness camping and floating experience, and perhaps a trip that is best-suited for those seeking remote waters that are seriously “off the beaten path” and rarely fished.

Keep in mind that fewer anglers fish the Two Yurt in a season than many famous Alaskan rivers see in a single day. With beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and over 50 miles of productive and pristine waters to fish and float, this is wilderness fishing the way it was meant to be.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $6,895.00 per person.

THE BEST OF KAMCHATKA – RAINBOWS FROM ABOVE Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia An extremely limited offering that operates only three weeks out of each summer season, the “Rainbows From Above” program gives four anglers per week the ability to fish different rivers and streams each day with daily fly-outs on a private MI-2 helicopter. In a wild land of no roads and endless rivers, there is no better way to fish for trophy rainbows than by accessing these rivers via chopper. Each night, the group will pour over area maps, discussing possibilities and options for the following day. Would you like to fish a river with lots of braids and back channels? No problem! Want small waters with abnormally large fish? It can be done. Strategically based out of a private lodge on beautiful Two Yurt Lake, this program gives you access to dozens of untouched trophy trout streams all located within 30 miles of base camp. In a land where most rainbows will die of old age without ever having seen a fly or a fisherman, this is without a doubt the most exclusive trip in existence.

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and rates.

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KAMCHATKA THE BEST OF KAMCHATKA – OZERNAYA RIVER CAMP Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia The Ozernaya – known to anglers as the “Oz” – has been called one of the greatest trout streams of all time: a large spring creek with unbelievable numbers of large, native rainbows averaging over 20 inches. The program on the Ozernaya River is a fixed camp operation in one of the most remote and untouched areas of the entire Kamchatka Peninsula. This is a river that is loaded with insects, huge sculpins and the most pristine, genetically perfect rainbow trout on earth. Without a doubt, this fishery is one of the purest, most productive freshwater habitats in the world. The most often asked question is "How big are the fish?" The average Rainbow is close to 21-inches, with many exceeding 24-inches and six pounds. In recent seasons several over the 30-inch mark have been landed. While staying in the rustic A-frame-style cabins of the Oz camp, anglers have access to more than 50 miles of river each day via jet boat. This program will have you fishing for char, Asiatic grayling, and huge rainbows – many of which can be caught on large mouse patterns. We don’t use the term “trip of a lifetime” very often. Fishing in Kamchatka, however, is definitely worthy of that statement!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $8,195.00 per person.

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CANADA If you were to use only one word to describe the fishing in Canada, that word would definitely be “variety.” From the legendary steelhead waters of British Columbia to the trout-rich rivers of Alberta to the pike-filled lakes of Saskatchewan, Canada is a freshwater fishing destination that is second to none. Serious and slightly more experienced anglers may be interested in the challenge of wild steelhead in British Columbia – home to the world’s most famous steelhead rivers and the largest trophy searun rainbows on the planet. While rarely a “numbers” game, the satisfaction of hooking, fighting and landing even a single wild and pure-strain anadromous fish ranks at the very top of the list of great angling accomplishments. During the summer months, the waters

of Western Canada and the trout rivers of British Columbia and Alberta are celebrated for a number of reasons, including aboveaverage fish sizes, healthy wild trout, a strong diversity of species, consistent dry fly fishing, and incredible hatches. Combined with exceptional scenery and a total lack of crowds, this is one of the finest trout fisheries found anywhere in North America. For adventurous anglers looking for trophy Northern Pike, the lakes of Saskatchewan attract anglers from all over the world with vast populations of pike, lake trout, Arctic grayling and walleye. A trip to the wilds of Saskatchewan is a true wilderness adventure, with spectacular vistas, impressive wildlife viewing, and some of the finest freshwater fishing action found anywhere.

SPEY LODGE & BOUNDARY LODGE Skeena Region, British Columbia Strategically situated on the banks of the Skeena River, Spey Lodge offers unrestricted availability to the fly-friendly waters of the lower Skeena watershed, home to the largest runs of wild fish in North America. The lodge has six doubleoccupancy rooms along with a large lounge, dining room and all other necessary amenities. Further to the north lies Spey’s sister operation – Boundary Lodge. A slightly smaller lodge built on the banks of the Bell-Irving River, Boundary was designed and constructed as a remote “out-camp” lodge catering to only four rods per week from September through November. Starting in late July, Spey Lodge offers some of the best steelhead fishing in the world, which continues into the fall. The target species and the rivers fished vary from month to month, but the techniques stay relatively the same. Swinging wet flies with floating lines and light wet-tips is most effective. You can also skate dry flies to large steelhead, catching fish on the surface that can easily exceed 20 pounds!

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $5,200.00 CDN per person

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CANADA NICHOLAS DEAN OUTDOORS Terrace, British Columbia British Columbia’s Skeena River system and its tributaries are home to some of the largest and most diverse runs of wild anadromous fish found anywhere in the world. Nicholas Dean Outdoors has access to over 50 of the best rivers and lakes throughout region, which means guests will always have numerous different fishing options to choose from regardless of water conditions, weather and time of year.

Oftentimes you can expect to be fishing in places where there are no roads and no development: areas that are instead home to old-growth forests, gin-clear rivers and large, wild steelhead. N.D.O.’s staff of professional, experienced guides know the Skeena and its tributaries intimately, ensuring that you have the best chance possible at landing some of the trophy fish that migrate upriver each year. Conveniently located just minutes from the easily-accessed town of Terrace, N.D.O.’s main Yellow Cedar Lodge is the ideal base of operations for this area, offering wireless internet, hot tub, sauna, lounge, dining room and a bar that is always well-stocked.

6 night / 5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,350.00 CDN per person.

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DAVE BROWN OUTFITTERS Fernie, British Columbia As one of the largest and most complete fly fishing outfitters in all of Western Canada, Dave Brown has earned his place in the fly fishing world as the outfitter of choice for those seeking the ultimate Canadian trout fishing experience. With a variety of different lodging and fishing options covering all different price points, D.B.O. offers guided trips on more than a dozen of the finest trout streams throughout Southern British Columbia and Western Alberta. These are rivers that are world-renowned for their healthy, wild and native trout, with most waters offering above-average fish, a strong diversity of species and incredible hatches with consistently good dry fly fishing.

Please contact Yellow Dog for rate and package options.

SILVERTIP OUTFITTERS

Carsland, Alberta Alberta’s Bow River is certainly known throughout the world of fly fishing as one of the great North American rainbow and brown trout fisheries. Less well known - but equally productive - is the portion of the Bow flowing east through the SiksikaBlackfoot Indian Reserve. Eric Grinnell’s Silvertip Outfitters has pioneered this “Bow Nobody Knows” section of the river, and after 25 years in operation they are still the only outfitting service regularly guiding and fishing on this highly productive section. Silvertip operates a streamside camp located on a beautiful ranch near the upstream edge of the reservation, an ideal destination for anglers, groups and families looking for a rustic, on-the-river camping experience at a great price.

3 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $1,695.00 per person.

TIGHTLINES LODGE Fernie, British Columbia Gord Silverthorne’s Kootenay Fly Shop was the first stand-alone fly shop and outfitting business established in the town of Fernie. Originally opened in 1995, the business eventually expanded to offer first-rate accommodations in the adjacent Tightlines Lodge. Perfect for fishing groups, families or couples, the lodge has five bedrooms and comfortably sleeps up to 10 people. The lodge is the ideal base camp from which to fish the Elk River – home waters for Tightlines Lodge. The Elk is home to some of the largest remaining populations of wild, pure-strain Westslope cutthroat trout in the world as well as strong numbers of native Bull trout.

7 night / 6 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,035.00 CDN per person.

WOLLASTON LAKE LODGE Northern Saskatchewan, Canada In the remote reaches of Canada’s serene northern wilderness lies one of the best freshwater fisheries in North America: the incomparable Wollaston Lake. More than 100 miles long and 400 feet deep, Wollaston attracts anglers from all over the world with vast populations of trophy northern pike, lake trout, arctic grayling and walleye. The magnificence of this fishery is matched only by the beauty and comfort of Wollaston Lake Lodge itself. This is an impressive retreat that is fully staffed to meet your highest expectations – from first-rate accommodations to a fully-stocked tackle shop to the best guides and equipment in the region. This is hands down one of the best Canadian fishing lodges in operation.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,995.00 per person.

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MONTANA

The fly fishing opportunities in Montana are legendary, and anglers from all over the world travel to the area to fish such storied waters as the Madison, Big Hole, Yellowstone, Big Horn, Blackfoot, Clark’s Fork, Smith, Beaverhead, Ruby and hundreds of other rivers, streams and lakes. Whether you’re searching for trophy-sized wild trout on the well known “blue ribbon” waters of the Treasure State, or seeking solitude on a high mountain stream or alpine lake, Montana provides an abundance of fly fishing opportunities.

Wild trout are what makes Montana so unique. The state has managed all trout fisheries as totally "wild" since the 1970s, meaning that all trout populations in the state are 100% selfsustaining. Hatchery-born fish are simply not introduced into any

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of these rivers. It's that natural wildness that makes the fishing so special and sets the rivers apart from all other trout fishing experiences in the Western U.S. Yellow Dog was born and bred in Montana, and our offices are located in the heart of Big Sky country in historic downtown Bozeman. We’re proud to be associated with a fantastic network of guides, lodges and outfitters that we’ve assembled from throughout the state – the finest professionals operating on the finest waters in the region. Whether you’re looking for a single day trip or an extended, multi-day lodge package, give us a call and let us custom-create a Montana itinerary and package that’s perfect for you. We will definitely show you the very best of Montana!

MONTANA THE LODGE AT EAGLE ROCK Craig, Montana If the section of Montana's Missouri River between Helena and Great Falls is not THE best dry fly fishery in the Western US, then it is certainly ranks among the very best. An incredibly fertile tailwater fishery with abundant insect life and a healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, the “Mo” is a large, easily fished river that in many ways has all of the characteristics of a giant spring creek. One of the biggest challenges for anglers in the past, however, has always been the lack of a full service, high-end fishing lodge. This problem was finally solved with the opening of The Lodge at Eagle Rock, the ideal base of operations from which to experience this incredible fishery. Managed and run by veteran guides, this is an operation that offers excellent customer service, gourmet meals, the nicest accommodations on the river and fully customized fishing packages with the best guides on the river. This is a great Missouri River destination for couples, large groups and anglers looking for a full-service, all-inclusive lodging package.

The cool temperatures and steady flows of the Missouri River below Holter Dam create the ideal environment for trophy trout, and this section of the river has some of the highest fish counts of any trout stream in the country. Aside from the main river, the lodge also fishes several of the Missouri River tributaries and other fisheries that include Prickly Pear Creek, the Blackfoot River, the Dearborn, Flat Creek, the Sun River and others. Nearby Holter and Hauser lakes are also popular spots. The famous "Land of the Giants" jet boat trip on the Missouri is a trip that is only offered by a few outfitters in the area and can be easily arranged while staying at the lodge.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,900.00 per person.

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BIG HOLE C-4 LODGE Twin Bridges, Montana Nestled on 400 private acres along the banks of the famous Big Hole River and surrounded by more than 20 miles of private waters, the Big Hole C-4 Lodge is the ideal base of operations for fishing this part of Southwest Montana. Whether you spend your time on the Lodge's private spring creeks and ponds or enjoy several days of fully guided fishing on the Big Hole and Beaverhead Rivers, you can expect productive and consistent fishing throughout your stay. There are six rooms at the lodge, each featuring two queen beds, log furniture, full bath, and large picture windows with views of the mountains, wildlife and spring creeks.

6 night / 5 fishing day package (double occupancy) $3,600.00 per person.

MISSOULA RIVER LODGE Missoula, Montana Missoula River Lodge sits on 100 acres with a mile of the Clark Fork River flowing through the property, just 15 minutes from Missoula Montana Airport. It is centrally located to take advantage of quick fly fishing access to the Bitterroot, Clark Fork, Blackfoot and nearby Rock Creek. With views of the river out your window and single room accommodations, you will be rested and relaxed each morning. If you’re planning a trip to southwest Montana, then this is great option that offers both float and wade-fishing day trips and some of the finest dry fly fishing anywhere in the state. All types of itineraries – from single day trips to week-long, all-inclusive packages – can be accommodated with short drive and transfer times.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages (single occupancy) $2,400.00 per person.

LINEHAN OUTFITTING Northwest Montana The northwest corner of Montana and the area that surrounds the small town of Libby are far less traveled (and less fished) than the rest of the state. This is a rugged and remote region that is home to mile upon mile of productive, uncrowded trout waters that receive very little angling pressure compared to other areas of the state. It is also home to Linehan Outfitting Company, one of the best-run guide and outfitting operations in the region. Aside from their “home waters” of the Kootenai River, they also offer trips on the Clark Fork and a number of other trout-rich waters in the area. Multi-day trips can include lodging packages on the Yaak River and at the Kootenai River Lodge, located near Libby, Montana.

4 night / 3 day packages start at $1,075.00 per person. Call for details.

GREAT WATERS INN Melrose, Montana Located five miles south of Melrose, the Great Waters Inn is one of Montana’s most versatile and affordable full service fishing lodges. Offering the visiting angler comfortable riverside lodging, fine dining and professional guiding on Montana’s Big Hole River and other area waters, the Inn was built in the grand tradition of the area’s early hunting and fishing lodges. With accommodations for 18 guests (ideal for corporate gatherings as well as smaller groups), Great Waters Inn exudes a rich ambiance that compliments the area’s outstanding rivers and streams.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,195.00 per person.

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MONTANA GALLATIN RIVER LODGE Bozeman, Montana Located on the outskirts of Bozeman, Montana, Gallatin River Lodge is a full-service fishing lodge that offers easy access to the Yellowstone River, the Lower Gallatin, the Upper and Lower Madison, Yellowstone National Park, and numerous area spring creeks and lakes – all less than an 80 minute drive from the lodge. A short walk across a meadow on the lodge’s property leads to two miles of private access on the Gallatin River, excellent water for both browns and rainbows. For new anglers, the onsite trout pond provides opportunities to land fish and practice the fundamentals of casting. If you are looking for a great alternative to local hotels and a higher level of accommodations and amenities when fishing the Bozeman area, this is the place.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $2,250.00 per person.

MISSOURI RIVER RANCH Craig, Montana A great lodging option for couples, families and small groups looking for private and secluded riverfront accommodations on Montana’s Missouri River. This is an operation that offers a full line-up of comfortable amenities and spacious guest rooms that directly overlook the river. The Ranch works with local guides and outfitters who have a solid reputation for taking great care of guests. This section of the Missouri is sometimes referred to as a giant spring creek because of the consistent water temperatures and the steady flows from Holter Dam, which gives life to great hatches of insects year-round. Rising trout and regular hatches are the claim to fame for the Upper Missouri.

Overnight rates start at $275.00 per person, per night.

BIGHORN RIVER LODGE Ft. Smith, Montana Fly Fisherman Magazine once described Bighorn River Lodge as “the best lodge on the best fly fishing river in the world.” This high-end, all-inclusive lodge is located directly on the banks of the Bighorn, a clear, cold tailwater river that is home to thousands of rainbow and brown trout per mile. The lodge features five private bedrooms, a comfortable common area, a fully-stocked fly shop and a large private stocked pond. First-class accommodations, great food, hard-working guides and one of the most productive fisheries in the West make this a lodge you’ll want to return to.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $2,295.00 per person.

BIGHORN ANGLER Ft. Smith, Montana Offering quality guided fishing packages on the Bighorn River for over 30 years, the Bighorn Angler’s wide array of lodging options, top-notch guide services and homecooked meals are the perfect ingredients for the definitive Bighorn River experience.

Low-key, legitimate and very affordable, the Angler offers newly remodeled hotelstyle lodge rooms, two-bedroom cabins and custom homes to accommodate angling groups of any size. All accommodations are coupled with some of the best cooking in the entire area! With some of the most courteous, hardworking and experienced guides in Montana, the Bighorn Angler guide staff is second to none.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $1,460.00 per person.

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YELLOWSTONE VALLEY LODGE Paradise Valley, Montana Located in beautiful Paradise Valley overlooking the world-famous Yellowstone River – a fishery known for its prolific hatches and excellent cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout fishing – Yellowstone Valley Lodge offers the finest location and best overall amenities of any operation in the area. The lodge is committed to offering excellent Montana fishing experiences on all different sections of the Yellowstone as well as the Madison, the Boulder River and several area spring creeks including Armstrong's, DePuy's and Nelson's. From any of the lodge’s 16 private riverside cabins, you look directly over the Yellowstone River and the lodge’s “home riffle,” a piece of productive water that allows you to fish on your own or late into the evening after a full day of guided fishing. The lodge features new and upgraded furnishings in all cabins, access to endless non-angling activities in the area and coordinated transportation services to and from Bozeman as well as Yellowstone National Park.

6 night / 5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $2,755.00 per person.

MADISON VALLEY RANCH Ennis, Montana Situated on the banks of the Madison River three miles from the quintessential trout town of Ennis, Madison Valley Ranch is a beautiful, high-end lodge operation that offers guided fishing packages on the Madison, Beaverhead, Ruby, Big Hole, Gallatin and Yellowstone Rivers. Also located onsite are a fully stocked and restored trout pond, Jack Creek, and the famous wade-only Channels section of the Madison. For guests that want all the details taken care of so they can indulge in a luxury vacation, this is a great Montana operation to focus on. Catering to both the seasoned veteran as well as the first time fly fisher, the guides of M.V.R. tailor each trip to match your fishing skill level and your expectations. The Ranch has wellappointed rooms, great amenities, a welcoming staff, plentiful resident wildlife and gourmet meals featuring local, organic ingredients. A fantastic option for corporate groups as well.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,300.00 per person.

THE STONEFLY INN Twin Bridges, Montana In the heart of Rocky Mountain trout country at the confluence of the Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers is the famous fishing town of Twin Bridges, Montana, home to Winston Fly Rods, incredible summer hatches, a classic water tower, and Rooster Leavens’ Stonefly Inn. With one of the finest guide staffs in the area and a focus on “doing things right,” the Stonefly Inn offers guided fishing on the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Jefferson, Ruby and Madison Rivers along with a handful of spring creeks and several pieces of private water scattered throughout the area. This small, personable operation features six cabins, accommodating a maximum of 12 anglers.

All-inclusive packages include lodging, guided fishing, all meals, equipment, flies and private water access fees. In our opinion, this is one of the most “authentic” operations in the Rockies; a well-run, hardcore, fishing-focused operation at a fantastic price point.

6 night / 5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,295.00 per person.

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MONTANA RUBY SPRINGS LODGE Alder, Montana Ruby Springs Lodge has a well-earned reputation for being one of the nicest, most high-end, well-run lodges in the entire U.S. West. Amazing on all levels, this operation consists of two main lodge buildings and a number of private “cabins” built directly on the banks of the Ruby River. These accommodations are truly magnificent, and the amenities and setting will satisfy even the most discriminating guest. Several meandering miles of the Ruby River and Clear Creek - the lodge's "home waters" give guests access to an intimate fishery that is unpressured and loaded with fish.

Fish the lodge's home waters as long as you want, and then spend a few days floating some of Montana's most famous rivers – all a close and easy drive from the lodge. The meals are of course gourmet, and the overall amenities are nicer than any lodge in the region. One of our favorite destinations for couples looking for a great fishing vacation combined with a romantic Western lodge experience.

5 night / 4 fishing day packages start at $4,500.00 per person.

SUNRISE PACK STATION Yellowstone National Park One of the few horsepack outfitters licensed to operate in Yellowstone National Park, Sunrise Pack Station offers an authentic backcountry experience, excellent stock and equipment, knowledgeable guides and wranglers, and access to some of the most spectacular scenery and fishing found anywhere in the Western U.S. Through Sunrise, there are a number of different angling options available, from single day trips to overnight packages into backcountry areas that include Slough Creek, Pebble Creek, the Lamar River, the Bechler River, Cache Creek and the Thorofare Region of Yellowstone. Camps are accessed via horseback, usually with the support of several mules in a mule train. A great experience for families and children and the ideal way to experience the “real” Yellowstone, far away from the crowds.

Packages range from $1,314.00 to $2,250.00 per person depending on the length of trip and the location.

SMITH RIVER FLOATS Central Montana There is one trip that the entire Yellow Dog team looks forward to every spring: one that many of us who live in Montana consider our favorite trip of the year. We’re talking about a multi-day camping and float trip on the Smith River, a fully-guided adventure on 60 miles of pristine, protected and isolated waters that wind through a scenic and remote canyon over the course of five days. The Smith is primarily a brown trout fishery, although there are smaller populations of rainbows and cutthroat as well. Anglers typically fish two to a raft with their guide, and when you arrive in camp at the end of each day, spacious two-person tents are already pitched, camp is set up, dinner is cooking, and the drinks are ready. Without a doubt, this is one of the most special trips available in the Western US, a trip that is great for hardcore anglers as well as families and kids.

5 night / 5 fishing day packages $3,900.00 per person.

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THE YELLOW DOG BLOODY MARY

A CLASSIC DONE RIGHT

Over the year’s, Yellow Dog’s Ian Davis has developed a fairly strong following and fan base for his spicy “Yellow Dog Bloody Mary.” Whether he’s mixing up a morning batch at a lodge bar in the Bahamas or pouring drinks from the rower’s seat of his drift boat, he’s a strong believer in the concept of a bold Bloody Mary making a positive impact on the fishing day.

Healthy, gluten-free and guaranteed to get you back in the game after a late night at the lodge spent celebrating your buddy’s first-ever grand slam. And, because we’ve always been strong proponents of healthy living and common-sense nutrition, we’re happy to share Ian’s secret recipe for the ultimate version of this classic and timeless cocktail.

STEP 1: Mix equal parts of Clamato and V8 Juice STEP 2: Add a healthy pour of pickle juice (Clausen pickle juice is

the best)

STEP 3: Add a dash of celery salt, white pepper and black pepper in equal amounts STEP 4: A squeeze of fresh lime juice to taste (helps prevent

Scurvy!)

STEP 5: Two shakes of Worcestershire and two of Tabasco (unless you're in Belize, where Marie Sharps is always an acceptable substitute) STEP 6: One teaspoonful of Horseradish mixed in STEP 7: Add a generous portion of ice cubes STEP 8: Finish off with a healthy pour of Vodka (to your own taste) STEP 9: Finally, add a fresh piece of celery, pickle, olives, okra,

peperoncini and/or any other salty, pickled veggie to finish off the concoction. The more you can convince yourself this is actually a healthy meal and not an alcoholic beverage being consumed way too early in the morning, the more bonus points you get! Feel free to add celery salt around the rim of the glass or sprinkled on top of the beverage.

Remember that building the perfect bloody takes skill and a certain artistic proficiency. Take your time and takes some pride in your cocktail. Now…get our there and catch your OWN grand slam!

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MONTANA SOUTHWEST MONTANA YELLOW DOG OUTFITTING Bozeman, Montana There is no state in the Lower 48 that can rival Montana when it comes to trout fishing. The scenery, diversity, and sheer number of rivers, streams and backcountry opportunities have long made Montana the epicenter of U.S. fly fishing. For that reason, Yellow Dog offers a full menu of custom-built packages for anglers looking for the ultimate Big Sky fly fishing experience. Based in Bozeman, we can arrange and outfit all types of trips throughout the region, from single day float trips to multiday lodge packages to backcountry camping trips.

Rather than working with one single outfitter, we’ve organized a team of the region’s finest guides, outfitters, and lodges – a network that ensures you’ll be matched with the best guide, on the best waters, at exactly the right time of year. Simply put, when you book your Southwest Montana trip through Yellow Dog, you can rest assured that you’ll be fishing with the top professionals in the business. Some of the guides that we work with on a regular basis include Joe Dilschneider, Matson Rogers, Greg Bricker, Karl Jones, Joe Sowerby, Ron Sorensen, Jamie Benedickt, Brett Seng, Mike Kowalski and several others. These guys are truly the top guides in the region and the ones that you want to be fishing with on your next Montana adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quick day on the water or an extended, all-inclusive package, give us a call and let us custom-create an itinerary and lineup that is perfect for you.

Let Yellow Dog show you the very best of Montana!

Daily rates begin at $495.00 for one or two anglers. Call for details.

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IDAHO With a backdrop of rugged mountains and endless wilderness, the rivers, streams and lakes of Idaho are some of the most productive – and most beautiful – in the entire United States.

And no matter where you look throughout the Western US, there is no other area that exceeds eastern Idaho and Yellowstone Country in its ability to provide such an amazing level of diversity and opportunity for fishermen. The Henry's Fork of the Snake River, the South Fork of the Snake River, the rivers and lakes of Yellowstone National Park, and other area waters such as Henry's Lake and Island Park Reservoir all offer endless prospects for angling exploration, discovery and on-water adventure. Henry’s Fork guru Rene Harrop once wrote that the mention of Yellowstone Country will “instantly stir the blood of the adventuresome angler for whom fly fishing holds far more significance than a simple recreational activity. As a defining term, fly fishing falls sadly short of describing this mystical realm of nature and living splendor of

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this area, where trout are pursued with an intensity and reverence that exceeds the common.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!

Yellow Dog offers a number of lodging and outfitting options throughout the state and can easily arrange all types of packages and trip itineraries – from basic cabin accommodations with daily guiding to all-inclusive, five-star lodging packages. With the great Idaho lineup that we’ve assembled, combined with the experience that the Yellow Dog staff has in working and guiding this part of the country, we believe we offer the very best options for fishing these world-class waters. Yellow Dog’s U.S. West program director Shaun Lawson – the son of Henry’s Fork pioneer Mike Lawson – quite literally grew up on the banks of these famous rivers. There is perhaps no better person in the entire booking business to help you arrange and plan your next trip to this part of the country.

IDAHO HENRY’S FORK LODGE Last Chance, Idaho Henry’s Fork Lodge offers a complete five-star fishing and lodging experience, with the most high-end accommodations and amenities found anywhere in the Yellowstone region. And with a philosophy that is focused on the highest levels of customer service and the finest attention to detail at all times, this is the ideal lodge option for those that truly want the very best. Built on a high bluff directly overlooking the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, the lodge is Yellow Dog’s first choice in the region for families, groups and couples – anglers and non-anglers alike – looking for something more than a standard fishing lodge experience. Anglers staying at the lodge have a full line-up of daily fishing options from which to choose, including numerous sections of the Henry’s Fork, South Fork, Madison, Hegben Lake, Yellowstone Park and many other stillwaters and smaller streams throughout the area. Henry’s Fork Lodge works with most of the area’s outfitters, so if you have a favorite guide that you have fished with before, chances are good we can incorporate your request into a lodge package.

6 night / 5 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $4,055.00 per person.

THE LODGE AT PALISADES CREEK Swan Valley, Idaho Built directly on the banks of the world famous South Fork of the Snake River in Idaho’s beautiful Swan Valley, the Lodge at Palisades Creek offers nine private cabins and a main lodge that includes a dining room, the “Cowboy Bar” and a fullystocked fly shop. As for the fishing, the South Fork is one of the finest dry fly rivers in North America, with prolific hatches of caddis, mayflies, stoneflies and midges occurring throughout the season. Supporting a population of 5,200 trout per mile with the average size of the Yellowstone cutthroat, rainbows and browns in the 14 - 18 inch range, this is a river that should be on every angler’s “must-fish” list. A beautiful facility that is perfect for groups, couples and families, the Lodge at Palisades Creek is a great base of operations for fishing the South Fork and all throughout the region.

Other key amenities include a full line-up of non-angling options and side trips and great home water fishing on the South Fork, Palisades Creek and the lodge’s private spring pond that is loaded with trout and insects.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $1,410.00 per person. Call for details.

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TIGHTLINES OUTFITTERS - MIDDLE FORK TRIPS Salmon, Idaho Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness area and the Sawtooth Mountains are certainly some of the most secluded and rugged regions in the Lower 48. Carving its way directly through the center of this wilderness area is the legendary Middle Fork of the Salmon River. With class three and four rapids, abundant wildlife, prolific cutthroat populations and waters that are almost always crystal-clear, this one of most spectacular multi-night camping and float trips available anywhere in the world. On a typical Middle Fork trip you will float for roughly 100 miles through an ancient granite canyon utilizing classic McKenzie-style drift boats. This river has been managed by the state of Idaho as a catch and release fishery since 1973, making it one of the best styretches of water in the Northwest for both numbers of fish and for consistently good action for native trout on a dry fly. This trip is a great option for beginners, families with younger anglers and groups of friends looking to experience a great on-water camping experience.

This is a classic Western fishery that is very straight-forward. Typically, you throw a big dry fly close to the bank and you catch fish. The first of six trip launch dates is around June 9th each season, and this is salmon fly time! Even though the water is still high, trout are looking up for these large insects that hatch in abundance. As the water levels recede throughout the early to mid-summer, golden stones, caddis, PMDs, terrestrials and nocturnal stones make up the majority of the trout's diet. The river is home to pure-strain Westslope cutthroat, rainbows (believed to be juvenile wild steelhead) and a few cut-bow hybrids. The river is also home to native bull trout and a protected run of wild steelhead and Chinook salmon that come into the river later in the summer, although anglers are not allowed to legally target bull trout, steelhead and salmon on the Middle Fork.

Jeff Helfrich is the owner and outfitter of Tightlines Fishing, and typically leads and guides each trip himself. Jeff is a third generation outfitter, and Jeff's grandfather Prince Helfrich was one of the first guides to float the Middle Fork in the 1940’s.

When you arrive into camp at the end of each day on the water, two-person tents are already pitched, camp is set up, and your gear is waiting for you. (A large “sweep boat” crewed by camp hands moves down the river ahead of you each day to ensure that camp is ready.) Tents are outfitted with two large cots with inflatable mattresses, and a pitch-tent toilet is provided at each camp. All meals are freshly prepared from scratch, many cooked in a Dutch oven or slowly roasted over juniper coals on an open fire.

5 night / 5.5 fishing day packages (drift boat fishing) $2,995.00 per person.

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IDAHO SOUTH FORK LODGE Swan Valley, Idaho A beautiful, high-end Western lodge built directly on a dramatic bend of the famous South Fork of the Snake River in scenic Swan Valley, Idaho. This stunning wilderness location offers the perfect blend of rustic elegance, outstanding activities, high-end amenities and exceptional hospitality. The South Fork is regarded as one of the best tailwater dry-fly fisheries in the United States. South Fork Lodge offers beautiful lodging options, gourmet meals, unique guided fishing experiences and guided land-based non-angling excursions into the surrounding Big Hole Mountains. One of the advantages you enjoy while staying at the lodge is the head start you have over other anglers in starting your day of fishing on the river. In fact, one of the river’s most important access points is a mere two hundred yards from where you meet your guide in the morning. All of the guides at South Fork Lodge are accomplished fly fisherman, excellent instructors and experienced boatmen. The entire South Fork team will work hard to provide you with a quality experience tailored to your specific requests.

Please contact Yellow Dog for details and package pricing.

TROUTHUNTER LODGE Last Chance, Idaho The Henry's Fork of the Snake deserves its status as one of the most famous trout rivers in the world. Much of the water has the look and characteristics of a giant spring creek, and the river’s prolific hatches and strong populations of large trout combine to make this one of the West’s top dry fly fisheries. Situated directly on the banks of the Henry’s Fork in close proximity to the famous Railroad Ranch, TroutHunter Lodge is a fantastic choice for guided fishing packages and the ideal base camp for fishing and exploring eastern Idaho and the Yellowstone region.

We’ve worked with TroutHunter since they first opened their doors more than ten years ago, and we feel strongly that they are one of the most solid programs in the entire area. A well-priced, high-value option offering comfortable riverside accommodations, a fully stocked fly shop, a full-service bar and the best food on the river.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages (double occupancy) start at $1,336.00 per person.

HENRY’S FORK ANGLERS Last Chance, Idaho Mike and Sheralee Lawson’s roots are five generations deep in Henry’s Fork Country. In 1976 they started Henry’s Fork Anglers, a full-service fly shop and guide service located just upstream from the Harriman Park section of the world famous Henry’s Fork River. Today, more than 35 years later, Henry’s Fork Anglers remains one of the top stand-alone fly fishing shops and outfitting businesses in the area. From single-day guide trips to multi-day, all-inclusive lodging and fishing packages, H.F.A. can customize itineraries to match all types of scenarios. Working with this independent fly shop and outfitter, Yellow Dog can easily create package options that offer a variety of different accommodations to meet the needs and requirements of any angler or group.

Throughout the area, there are a variety of different accommodations options available, including Elk Creek Ranch, the Pines and Henry’s Fork Lodge. Several of our Yellow Dog staff are H.F.A alumni, which means that we know these programs and the area fisheries well.

4 night / 3 fishing day package (double occupancy) begin at $1,265.00 per person

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WYOMING

With more than 27,000 miles of blue-ribbon, fishable rivers and streams, it is easy to understand why Wyoming has become known as one of the west's finest fly fishing destinations. With famous waters that include the rivers of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks as well as the Snake River, the Wind and the North Platte, Wyoming is home to some of the best trout fishing found anywhere. With incredible scenery, impressive numbers of fish, experienced guides and outfitters, and areas where the wildlife almost always outnumbers the people, the Cowboy State is well worth exploring.

WIND RIVER CANYON FLY FISHING Thermopolis, Wyoming For the 2015 season, we’re very proud and excited to be working with a new lodging and guide option located in the heart of Wyoming's Wind River country. While this guide service and the fishing opportunities that they offer are by no means new or undiscovered, what is new is that long-time guide and outfitter Darren Calhoun has now added riverside lodging to his line-up, opening what we feel is the most exciting new fishing lodge in the West.

As a 100% Native American-owned company operating since 1992, Wind River Canyon Whitewater and Fly Fishing, located in Thermopolis, Wyoming, has long been home to the most seasoned, professional guide staff in the area.

Darren and his team are the only commercial operation allowed to guide the Wind River Canyon on the Reservation, which essentially means that when you fish with them, you have an entire river all to yourself within the Canyon sections. Since their focus has always been on conservation and resource protection, they fish the Wind River Canyon in two stretches, dividing the trips into upper and lower floats and placing a daily limit of one guided boat per section, per day. This is an amazing tailwater fishery that offers some of the best wild brown trout fishing in the United States complimented by impressive numbers of hot, heavy rainbows. There are also a number of great whitewater sections on these floats, which adds to the overall excitement of each trip! Along with the Canyon, guests can also float sections of the Bighorn River, above and below the town of Thermopolis, as well as the Upper Big Wind at Crowheart.

Opening in the spring of 2015, Darren’s new lodging option is located directly on the banks of the Wind River in the middle of the Canyon, equidistant between the upper and lower Canyon float. A great option for small groups, the new lodge can accommodate a maximum of six anglers at a time. The prime location of the new lodge means that two anglers can fish all day on the upper section, stepping out of the boat at the end of the day into the backyard of the lodge. The next morning, anglers can step back into the boats to continue the float on the lower section. Comfortable rooms, delicious home-style meals, and all-inclusive packages make this a fantastic option with the added bonus of the largest trout found anywhere in the Rockies!

5 night / 4 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $3,475.00 per person.

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PACIFIC NORTHWEST It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful geographic location to fish than the Pacific Northwest. The rivers are big, the fish are plentiful, and the weather - while at times wet and rainy - is generally mild. Whether you are swinging flies on the Deschutes or the John Day, or stalking wild steelhead on the fabled waters of the Olympic Peninsula, Yellow Dog can help arrange a fantastic Northwest lodging and fishing package.

JEFF BRAZDA’S OUTFITTING Olympic Peninsula, Washington The rivers and forests of the Olympic Peninsula have always been a magical, mystical place for anglers, home to old-growth rainforests, misty wilderness and incredible runs of wild, trophy steelhead. Jeff Brazda and the crew at Brazda’s Fly Fishing are the most experienced guides in the area, and in the fall and winter months, they literally live and breathe steelhead on the O.P. This operation continuously guides anglers into some of the largest sea-run rainbows in the Lower 48, and over the years they’ve built an incredibly diverse and productive program.

The winter run steelhead on the Olympic Peninsula have a history of strong returns on rivers that include the Sol-Duc, Hoh, Bogachiel, Queets and Calawah. Brazda’s also guides anglers on Columbia River tributaries that include the Methow, Klickatat and Wenatchee Rivers during the late summer and early fall. The state of Washington is fortunate to have a strong run of steelhead, and when fishing with Brazda’s crew, any day on the O.P. could easily be the best steelhead day of your life.

4 night / 3 fishing day packages (double occupancy) $1,625.00 per person

DESCHUTES ANGLER Maupin, Oregon Whether you’re looking for a one-day guided Deschutes River trip, private high desert lake fishing, or a multi-day camping and float trip for fall steelhead, Deschutes Angler offers a variety of world-class fishing and guiding options. This is an operation with a passionate guide staff, an amazing level of technical competence and a willingness to teach and instruct on everything from the intricacies of river fishing to the dynamics of technical spey casting. Whether you’re looking to fish for chromebright, hard-fighting steelhead with floating lines and light spey rods, or pursue wild Redside trout with a dry fly, Deschutes Angler can guide you on the area’s waters, instruct you on the applicable techniques and set you up for success. Aside from great trout fishing, the Deschutes also offers one of the finest steelhead runs in the Northwest. Beginning in late July and running into November, you can choose from an early season trip on the lower 20 miles of the river or opt for a multi-day float on the upper 50 mile section later in the season.

One Day Float Trip (1 or 2 anglers) are $495.00.

Multi-Day River Trips are $425.00 per day, per person.

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FAMILY DESTINATIONS

At Yellow Dog Flyfishing, we appreciate how tough it can be for many anglers to balance their fishing addictions with the vacation demands of a family, kids or a non-fishing significant other. If you’re trying to plan a trip where you’re looking to combine great fishing with a family adventure that will please everyone, then the great news is, “YES—We CAN make this happen!” We handle hundreds of these types of packages each year, and we promise you that these win-win trip options do in fact exist.

The lodges and operations listed below offer totally legitimate fishing opportunities with the ability to sincerely cater to non-anglers and family members with a variety of fun and different activities and options. From babysitting services to kids programs to a full line-up of side trips and adventure tours, we promise that the entire family will enjoy a vacation at any one of the following operations. For more information or for help in planning your next “fishing-family-spouse-multi-activity-vacation,” give us a call at 888-777-5060 and let’s get started.

SALTWATER FAMILY DESTINATIONS Belcampo Lodge (Punta Gorda, Belize)

H20 Bonefishing (Grand Bahama, Bahamas)

An ideal location for couples, families and anglers looking to combine a fishing trip with great non-angling activities and a high-end jungle resort experience in Central America. The food, service, accommodations, amenities and location are all incredible.

World-class bonefishing with all of the comforts and amenities of a luxury family beach resort, Pelican Bay gives the family access to a wide selection of restaurants, bars, shopping, dancing, water sports and nightlife.

Crocodile Bay Resort (Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica)

A well-established, full-service, large-scale beach resort located in one of the top permit fishing areas in Belize. It is the ideal base of operations for fishing and exploring the southern part of the country, offering great activities on the mainland and the outer reef islands alike.

Crocodile Bay is located in a region that National Geographic Magazine has called “the most biologically intense place on Earth”. The resort offers 29 privately guided eco and adventure tours including kayaking, canopy tours, snorkeling, surfing, horseback riding and more.

Deep Water Cay Club (Grand Bahama, Bahamas) Arguably one of the nicest, most high-end fishing lodges in the entire Caribbean. In business for more than 50 years, the Club is better than ever and the fishery remains healthy and productive. Club amenities include a main clubhouse, welcome center, marina, infinity pool and a 4,000’ private airstrip.

El Pescador Lodge (Ambergris Caye, Belize) A family-run resort situated on the best beach on Ambergris. Close to the beach town of San Pedro, you can fish, dive, snorkel, shop, ride bikes, explore the town and enjoy the best nightlife in Belize. The lodge features three swimming pools and a full line-up of family amenities.

Grand Slam Lodge (Punta Allen, Mexico) This full-service Yucatan lodge operation—the nicest in the area—is situated on a beautiful beach in one of the world’s largest protected wild areas, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Beautiful rooms and amenities that far surpass anything in the area.

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Robert’s Grove Resort (Placencia, Belize)

Stella Maris Resort (Long Island, Bahamas) A beautiful oceanfront resort that offers a wide range of tropical vacation accommodations, superb beaches and numerous water activities. Three hotel pools dot the manicured grounds, as do seven hidden beach coves.

Long Island is peaceful, uncrowded and hardly touched by modern tourism.

Swain’s Cay Lodge (Andros, Bahamas) A full-service bonefishing operation and beach resort ideally situated to cater to anglers, non-anglers, families and couples. Located on one of the nicest white sand beaches on Andros, there are a number of different accommodation options, including ocean-view suites, garden-view twin rooms and apartments for larger groups and families.

Turtle Inn (Placencia, Belize) Owned by Francis Ford Coppola, this 25-room seafront hideaway combines a great location with a high degree of luxury and service. With the best diving, snorkeling and sea kayaking in the area and a variety of inland excursions and activities, Turtle Inn is a fantastic family vacation option.

FRESHWATER FAMILY DESTINATIONS Brooks Lodge (Katmai National Park, Alaska)

Rio Manso Lodge (Bariloche, Argentina)

This may be the best overall family destination in all of Alaska. This historic lodge sits on the shores of Naknek Lake near the world famous Brooks Falls—home to the best brown bear viewing in all of Alaska. Non-anglers can participate in numerous bear viewing activities, area “flight-seeing,” hiking, photography, kayaking and more.

A phenomenal Patagonian lodge option that offers deluxe accommodations, delicious food, the finest Argentine wines, incredible culture and rich hospitality. Our favorite Argentine lodge for families and couples, the fishing program can easily be complemented by a host of non-angling activities and options.

Gallatin River Lodge (Bozeman, Montana)

Riversong Lodge (Lake Creek Area, Alaska)

The location of this lodge near Bozeman makes it the perfect home base for fishing Southwest Montana, exploring the Yellowstone region and spending time with the family in Big Sky Country. Quick and easy access to horseback riding, touring Yellowstone Park, hunting, hiking and exploring.

Located approximately 70 air miles northwest of Anchorage and accessible only by floatplane, Riversong is one of our favorite destinations for a quick one or two day trip to a remote area of Alaska that not only offers great fishing, but a phenomenal overall experience.

The Himalayan Outback (India)

Sunrise Pack Station Horsepacking (Yellowstone National Park)

A journey through the outback of the Himalayas and the frontier area between India and Nepal leaves anglers with memories of more than just a world-class Golden Mahseer fishing experience. The simplicity of the region, the people encountered and the incredible landscapes are a sight unto themselves.

The best way to see Yellowstone and fish some of the most untouched waters in the country is by horseback. This backcountry experience features excellent stock and equipment, knowledgeable guides and wranglers and access to some of the most pristine, spectacular scenery in the world.

Nomads of the Seas (Puerto Montt, Chile)

Tightlines Outfitters (Middle Fork of the Salmon, Idaho)

A program that allows you to travel through Patagonia by air, land and water—all on the same trip! With the versatility of their 150-foot live-aboard vessel The Atmosphere, Nomads can deliver an adventure unlike anything ever before seen in the world of fishing and adventure eco-tourism. Totally amazing and completely unique.

Float for roughly 100 miles through an ancient granite canyon utilizing classic McKenzie-style drift boats in a fully-supported river camping adventure. The Middle Fork of the Salmon is a strong option for beginners, groups of friends and families with younger anglers.

Remota Resort (Puerto Natales, Chile) Far in the southern part of Chile lies a land of raw beauty, majestic mountains and numerous rivers. Close to Torres del Paine National Park, Remota is one of the most unique resort operations we’ve ever seen and a lodge that is perfect for those looking to diversify a fishing package.

Tordrillo Mountain Lodge (Alaska Range, Alaska) Located at the foothills of the Tordrillo Mountain range on beautiful Judd Lake and the outlet of the Talachulitna River, T.M.L. offers anglers and outdoor enthusiasts numerous options for adventure, including fishing, heliskiing and whitewater rafting.

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COUPLES DESTINATIONS

While there are certainly a large number of fishing lodges that cater to hardcore, no-frills anglers, we are finding more and more operations that have become very good at accommodating couples and non-fishing significant others. We’re hearing from and talking with clients and anglers who are looking for destinations well-suited for these types of “couples combo trips.” Perhaps you’re looking for a scenario where one person is fishing and the other wants nothing to do with being on the water. Or perhaps you’re seeking a destination where you can combine a few days of fishing with other area activities. The lodges and operations listed below offer totally legitimate fishing opportunities with the ability to genuinely cater to non-anglers or casual anglers with a variety of exciting activities and options. All offer a higher degree of luxury and amenities and a more complete line-up of fun things to see and do when you’re not standing in a flats boat or wading a freestone river. Each of the operations featured on this page offers higher-end amenities that include beautifully appointed rooms, gourmet food, spa services and a full line-up of nonangling activities. Here’s your chance to enjoy great fishing AND be a vacation-planning hero!

SALTWATER COUPLES DESTINATIONS Alphonse Island Resort (Seychelles)

Kamalame Cay Resort (Andros Island, Bahamas)

Situated approximately 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa, Alphonse is a distant and exotic destination offering one of the most beautiful tropical settings on the planet. Beautiful and private chalets, a large freshwater pool, snorkeling in the Alphonse lagoon, pedal boats, sailboats, kayaks and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

If you’re looking for a private Caribbean adventure accompanied by worldclass accommodations, Kamalame has it all. Amenities include postcardperfect beaches, a freshwater swimming pool, first-class dining, a wonderful selection of wines and the finest spa in the Bahamas.

Campeche Tarpon (Campeche, Mexico)

For anglers looking to combine a premier saltwater fishing experience with a secluded tropical beach vacation, Playa Blanca eco-adventure resort is a great option. Located 130 miles south of Cancun, Playa is located on a secluded private island with great rooms, gourmet food, and beautiful grounds.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Campeche may be among the most beautiful and unique cities in all of Mexico. Visitors will enjoy strolling the colorful streets of the historic downtown area, home to numerous shops, museums, art galleries, outdoor restaurants, historic cathedrals and churches. All of this combined with the best baby tarpon action anywhere in the Caribbean!

Deep Water Cay Club (Grand Bahama, Bahamas) Arguably one of the nicest, most high-end fishing lodges in the entire Caribbean. In business for more than 50 years, the Club is better than ever and the fishery remains healthy and productive. Club amenities include a main clubhouse, welcome center, marina, infinity pool and a 4,000’ private airstrip.

Delphi Club (Abaco, Bahamas) As good as the fishing is for guests staying at the Delphi Club, life around the Club is even more amazing. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool, a pristine white sand beach, sea kayaking and trips to Marsh Harbour for numerous shopping and sightseeing opportunities.

Desroches Island (Seychelles) An exceptional, high-end destination offering a high degree of luxury coupled with impressive shallow water flats fishing and world-class bluewater action. Privately owned and with only one resort on the entire island, you are afforded out-right freedom and unrivalled privacy, making it the ultimate paradise escape.

Playa Blanca Lodge (Espiritu Santo Bay, Mexico)

Tiamo Resort (Andros Island, Bahamas) Tiamo means “I love you” in Italian, so it’s no surprise that this operation makes the list of our top couples destinations. This luxury eco-resort features a pristine beach, a new pool, and 11 beachside bungalows, each with a view of the incredible turquoise water of the South Bight of Andros.

Turneffe Flats (Turneffe Atoll, Belize) Your own private island in the middle of paradise. Long recognized as Belize’s premier saltwater fly fishing, scuba diving and marine ecotourism destination, Turneffe’s activity-filled Atoll Adventure program is ideal for non-anglers. The perfect destination for privacy and seclusion.

Turtle Inn (Placencia, Belize) Owned by Francis Ford Coppola, this 25-room seafront hideaway combines a great location with a high degree of luxury and service. With the best diving, snorkeling and sea kayaking in the area and a variety of inland excursions and activities, Turtle Inn is a fantastic couples vacation option.

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FRESHWATER COUPLES DESTINATIONS Cinco Rios Lodge (Coyhaique, Chile)

Nomads of the Seas (Puerto Montt, Chile)

A beautiful, high-end lodge in a town that is known as the “Bozeman, Montana of Patagonia.” High-end food and wine and a host of area activities including bird watching, Andean condor viewing, trips into town, hiking and much more.

With the luxury and versatility of their 150-foot live-aboard vessel The Atmosphere and a collection of toys, equipment, watercraft, helicopters and more, Nomads can deliver an adventure that will impress anyone. Fishing aside, there are huge number of non-angling activities and guided tours. A legitimate five-star adventure.

Enchanted Lake Lodge (Katmai Region, Alaska) For more than 50 years, Enchanted Lake has provided guests with incredible fishing experiences, high-end accommodations, superb cuisine and the finest in customer service in one of the most beautiful settings found anywhere in Alaska. The lodge staff can arrange a number of activities including sightseeing tours, bear and wildlife viewing and boat tours.

Henry’s Fork Lodge (Last Chance, Idaho)

Remota Resort (Puerto Natales, Chile) Close to Torres del Paine National Park, Remota is one of the most unique resort operations we’ve ever seen and a lodge that is perfect for those looking to diversify a fishing package. With a full line-up of guided non-angling trips and eco-activities, this is one of our favorite couples destinations in all of South America.

Henrys Fork Lodge is Yellow Dog’s first choice in the region for groups, or couples looking for a high-end and elegant lodge setting. The lodge’s attention to detail and customer service is second to none. Outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing in Harriman Park and in Yellowstone National Park.

Rio Manso Lodge (Bariloche, Argentina)

Lodge at Palisades Creek (Swan Valley, Idaho)

Ruby Springs Lodge (Alder, Montana)

A beautiful facility that is perfect for groups, couples, and families, the lodge is happy to arrange a variety of non-angling activities to compliment your stay. Horseback riding, white water rafting and tours in nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park are just a few of the options available.

Beautiful riverside cabins that are truly magnificent. Each cabin features the highest level of amenities, and each evening the staff will turn down your beds and build a fire for you in your own private stone fireplace.

Compliment the fishing with horseback rides through the Ruby Valley, golf and sightseeing tours of historic Virginia City.

Mission Lodge (Dillingham, Alaska) A first-class luxury experience in the heart of rugged and beautiful Alaska.

Large private rooms, gourmet food and wines, sauna, hot tub, full massage services and a comfortable lounge area all make Mission a great high-end option for non-anglers and significant others.

A phenomenal fishing option that also offers deluxe accommodations, delicious food, the finest Argentine wines, incredible culture and rich hospitality. Our favorite Argentine lodge for couples, all fishing days can easily be complemented by a host of non-angling activities and options.

South Fork Lodge (Swan Valley, Idaho) A beautiful, high-end Western lodge built directly on a dramatic bend of the world famous South Fork of the Snake River. This stunning wilderness location offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance, outstanding activities and exceptional hospitality. The unique setting and luxurious amenities provide a truly memorable experience for both anglers and non-angling guests.

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MEET THE YELLOW DOG TEAM When you book your fishing trip through Yellow Dog, you are “partnering” with a group of experienced, knowledgeable professionals who as a team are 100% dedicated to delivering a memorable, successful and enjoyable adventure. And when it’s your time, your money and your vacation, why would you want to work with anyone other than the best? Yellow Dog’s strongest asset is our staff, and we promise that when you book with us, you’ll always receive great customer service, hard work and attention to detail on all levels. We’re fond of the saying, “Booking your trip with Yellow Dog is like having a backstage pass to the world of fly fishing.” After all, who doesn’t love to be backstage? These are the people that you’ll be dealing with and the team that will be working hard for you!

Jim Klug

Shaun Lawson

Chris Overman

Ian Davis

Tom Melvin

Camille Egdorf

Doug McKnight

Mary Pat Harris

Brenda Martinez

106 • phone: 406-585-8667 • toll free: 888-777-5060

FOLLOW THE YELLOW DOG TEAM ON-LINE AND ON INSTAGRAM! Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures Facebook: YellowDogFlyFishingAdventures Instagram: @yellowdogflyfishing Twitter: YellowDogFish Blog: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/blog Jim Klug / Klug Outdoor Photography Facebook: JimKlugOutdoorPhotography Instagram: @jtklugphotography Website: www.klugphotos.com Bryan Gregson Photography Facebook: bryangregsonphotography Instagram: @bryangregsonphotography Website: www.bryangregsonphotography.com Ian Davis Instagram: @iansdavis Tom Melvin Instagram: @tom.melvin Camille Egdorf Instagram: @camillegdorf Shaun Lawson Instagram: @slawson406

John Hudgens

Cari Endres

Tom Kersbergen

Boone

Jeff Currier

Bryan Gregson

Choosing the right flyline

the right line will truly make a differenCe and help you on every Cast, it is perhaps the single most important pieCe of equipment you own.

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THE YELLOW DOG TRAVEL WEBSITE

www.yellowdogflyfishing.com Yellow Dog is proud to offer the largest, most detailed and in-depth travel and fishing site in existence, and we’re always working hard to add to and expand this resource. With over 130 different lodges and destinations (international and domestic) and dozens of trip planning tools, travel resources, research platforms and the daily travel blog, the website is designed to give traveling anglers the information and means to plan and organize their next great fishing adventure.

For complete, in-depth information on each and every destination that Yellow Dog works with, offers and represents, visit us online.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Over 130 different lodge and outfitter offerings A full line up of both international and domestic offerings Dozens of current photos for each and every destination Regularly updated specials and last-minute trip deals Full travel specifics and transfer details The most detailed and relevant travel blog on the web Current and updated rates and inclusions for all packages Full species and fishery information for all locations Useful links for moon phases, tides and other planning tools In-house airline ticketing and trip insurance support Specific listings for couples and family destinations Updated listings for hosted and group trips On-line logo store for custom Yellow Dog items

TRAVEL BLOG: www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/blog

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CUBA

on the “angling bucket list” for life. The For many, a fishing trip to Cuba is high hed by many of the areas are relatively untouc fishing is amazing, and by-and-large and hands-down some of the most pristine angling pressure. These fisheries are a Cub to trip a , re in the Caribbean. That said protected ecosystems found anywhe has s seeing a destination that in many way is also about visiting the country and can 1950’s (at least not yet!). The fishing not really changed much since the late to nd isla the e of the more rural areas of be great, but a visit to Havana and som the and people, the great old cars, the music experience the sights, the sounds, the the world. is unlike anything or any place else in overall culture that Cuba has to offer

P AND OFFERING FROM STAY TUNED FOR A NEW CUBA LINE-U D, LODGE AND RESORT YELLOW DOG, INCLUDING LIVE-ABOARR MORE INFORMATION. S. CONTACT US TODAY FO ION888-777-5060 tollAT free: 108 • phone: 406-585-8667 OP•ER