American Angler 2018 01

A DIY GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA’S TOP TAILWATERS ®

THE FLY FISHING AUTHORITY ®

Chuck, Duck, & Strip

GEAR O F TH E YEAR

q 2018

r

Inside tips from three streamer experts on how to catch big fish (like this one).

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How to: Fish Pools With A Plan Time The Tigerfish Bite Tie Flies That Stand Out

NEW Prince Patterns

CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 VOLUME 41 / ISSUE 1 www.americanangler.com

COVER: Angler Patrick Duke with a big, late season, butter-colored brown trout.

Photography by Matt Shaw

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F E AT U R E S 24 Streamer Kings

BY STEVE CULTON Three big-fly gurus explain how to catch more (and larger) trout using meaty patterns.

30

Gear of the Year 2018

38

CLOSER LOOK

BY BEN ROMANS A rundown of the latest and greatest fly fishing products from the industry’s leading manufacturers.

Great Barracuda

BY PHIL MONAHAN These fearsome-looking saltwater predators are also fantastic game fish that will often take anglers deep into their backing and leap many times during the fight.

40

The Prince Family Tree

44

Playing Pool

50 62

BY KEN MCCOY Since its inception, tiers have tweaked, manipulated, and reworked this classic nymph into dozens of unique patterns.

BY JASON RANDALL No river pools are exactly alike, but with a systematic approach, you can get more fish out of all of them.

Golden State Tailwaters

BY GREG VINCI Year-round opportunities for trout, salmon, and steelhead await in California’s Central Valley.

EXPEDITIONS

Rumble In The Jungle

BY GEORGE ROBEY Slugging it out with trophy-sized tigerfish in the heart of Africa’s Zambezi River.

D E PA R T M E N T S

4 Editor’s Page BY BEN ROMANS 6 Headwaters 18 History BY WILL RYAN 22 Sweet Spot PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN JURACEK 56 Natural Reflections BY TED FAUCEGLIA 58 Fly Tyer® BY SCOTT SANCHEZ 72 Waterlines BY JOSEPH J. ALBANESE

BRIAN GROSSENBACHER

JANUARY/FEBRUAY 2018 I 3

EDITOR’S PAGE I

BY BEN ROMANS

Birth Of A Bum For just a small, one-time gift of $35, you can sponsor a fly fisherman.

W

hen I was a high school sophomore and my cohorts were making college plans and settling on career paths, my mother causally asked me what I wanted to do with my life? When I

answered, “I want to fish,” she shuddered.

Now that I’m older and have a family of my own, I understand why. Parents want the best for their children. So as innocent and honest as my answer to her was at the time, I don’t think she heard, “I want to fish.” She heard, “I want to be a bum.”

It makes sense. Long before I had a driver’s license, I immersed myself in all aspects of fishing, almost to a fault. Eventually, I started lying to her. (Don’t get mad Mom, my brother lied too.) Instead of attending Fellowship of Christian Athletes meetings in the dusky hours before school like model students, Nick and I ate Hostess Donettes, drank coffee, and poached a trout pond on the opposite side of town. She was so proud thinking her rancorous sons were becoming such duteous examples that we withheld the truth for years. Thankfully, decades later, she’s able to laugh with us about all those secrets we were too afraid to tell.

Even more telling is I can recall the exact moment, and act, that kick-started my passion. It seemed trivial at the time. Mostly because despite my father’s tutelage, the mechanics and principles of fly fishing felt strange to me. When he booked a guide for an afternoon—in the

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middle of a Colorado winter—the abbreviation “WTF” entered my mind, albeit long before its time.

In hindsight, it was an amazing, illuminating experience. We caught and lost trout—nice, long, fat fish—in the midst of the coldest time of year. I loved what I felt. But at the end of the day, I had questions, lots of questions. What is this line?

What’s on these hooks? What’s a midge?

I didn’t wait for an answer before asking another question.

But my moment of Zen ensued later at the fly shop. I spied a fly-tying kit filled with rudimentary tools, hooks, materials, and instructions, suited for any newbie.

My dad ponied up the $35 to buy it, but only because I promised to fill his boxes with my finest ties. After all this time, he and I still debate on whether or not I fulfilled my obligation.

That simple purchase—that seemingly insignificant instant—became a defining moment, and looking back, was largely responsible for my future as a “bum.” In the following months and years, I taught myself to cast a fly rod. I studied library books and catalog photos (long before the advent of the Internet) to learn the ins and outs of fly tying. I

regularly visited what felt like the only fly shop in northern Ohio, where I asked more questions and studied more books.

A C-clamp vise with stripped threads, dull scissors, misaligned hackle pliers, and an assembly of F-grade materials changed my life. Thank you Dad. I keep the original tools and a few spools of thread in the original container (and the price tag is still stuck on the lid).

Every time I assemble (or read) a feature on new fly-fishing products (like the one that appears on page 30 of this issue), I think about that white, rectangular, plastic box, and how $35 set me on a path no gifted $800 fly rod, $80 fly line, or $8,000 trip to New Zealand could’ve set me on. I discovered it all on my own, like most of us did, in my backyard.

Last spring I plopped that box and tools down on my tying bench. With my oldest son’s help, and despite my accumulation of the latest and greatest tools, materials, and “tying tricks” I’ve assembled over the years, we tied a season’s worth of Clouser Minnows in a weekend’s time using the same “dispensable” tools I unwrapped decades ago. Holy smokes, time flies—doesn’t it?

CORRECTION Jonathan Olch’s last name was misspelled in the “5 Questions” column of the November/December 2017 edition of American Angler. The correct spelling is Olch. You can order both volumes of his book, A Passion for Permit, at www.apassionforpermit.com.

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NAUTILUS PRO GUIDE DATA SHEET

Monique “Moe” Newman Born and raised in South La. fishing is and BIO: has been my way of life. I made my passion a career and work alongside my husband, Eric at our lodge called Journey South Outfitters.

GUIDED ANGLERS TO: I have been able to guide many anglers to their “first”: first saltwater species, first knuckle busts, first line tangles around the reel, and first time seeing backing.

BOAT: My 2 flats boats are Beavertails for chasing Bull reds. And we have 2 SeaVee Z’s: A 27’ and a 37’.

FAVORITE KNOT: Loop Knot DREAM DESTINATION: New Zealand FAVORITE RIVER/WATER: Northern Gulf of Mexico FAVORITE TYPE OF FISHING: Sight fishing bull reds inshore and yellowfin tuna offshore.

FAVORITE NAUTILUS REEL: Why? The Silver King! I can use this reel for inshore or offshore because of its lightness and drag system. It’s a very versatile reel.

Stop palming the reel, let the fish run!

FAVORITE SAYING: BEST DAY FISHING: Last November I had a father/daughter team with me.

The father is a great fly fisherman but the daughter is new to it. We sat on a point all day and watched bull reds wake by. This was a perfect op portunity to watch her learn from her father and catch one after another. And it let me ap preciate the times I got to fish with my dad.

WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO GUIDE ONE DAY?: Larry Dahlberg WHEN NOT FISHING?: When I’m not on the water I’m in the woods! Bow hunting is my second passion and gives me time to unwind from a busy fishing season.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT NAUTILUS REELS?: The brake, the light weight and the looks.

NAME:

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HEADWATERS CONSERVATION

THE FIX Putting Idaho’s broken Yankee Fork watershed back together for the sake of salmon, trout, and all things wild. By Kris Millgate

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I’M HAVING ONE OF THOSE MOMENTS. You know the kind. A moment of such sincere clarity that you must stop “busying” and settle. It happens often when I’m on video shoots that involve wildlife in wild lands. But this one—oh, this one is remarkable.

It’s a moment so divine I stop working and start staring. I know in the back of my mind my camera is still rolling, but at the forefront, I’m witnessing a miracle as an angler rather than as a reporter. Here, belly down on a beaver dam, I see for the first time what most people will never see in their lifetime—a Chinook salmon swimming the last leg of its 850 mile journey from the Pacific to Idaho to spawn.

“As soon as the fish come in, you know you’ve done something right,” says Cassi Wood, Trout Unlimited’s (TU) central Idaho project specialist.

Let it Flow

Wood is one of the many minds behind what’s making fish come in. TU, along with the U.S. Forest Service and about a dozen other funding partners, are putting the Yankee Fork of the Salmon River back together—a river that was turned upside down and inside out seven decades ago for gold.

“When mining started in 1940, it was right after the depression and before WWII. Men needed jobs. They were at the dredge camp,” says Rich Allen, Yankee Fork Gold Dredge Association (YFGDA) president. “That’s what happened in those days. Granted they don’t do that anymore, but that’s what happened in those days and it was acceptable in those days.”

Many of the acceptable practices from days gone by shaped the scarce situation salmon are in today. They face unbelievable odds migrating to and from the ocean.

That’s why most of them never live to see another spawning bed after they leave their native one. On their return migration, only a few dozen make it all the way to the Yankee Fork near Stanley, Idaho in the fall.

Thankfully, every fall, the seven miles of dredge tailings in their massive mounds of waste rocks left over after miners sift through it for gold—shrinks.

“It’s something we can fix,” says Jim WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

Decades ago, when gold was discovered in Idaho’s Yankee Fork drainage, miners built a large dredge (bottom) to sift through tons of rock in search of the valuable mineral. The subsequent tailings (top) altered, and in some cases blocked, the Yankee Fork’s flow and prevented migratory fish like Chinook salmon (left) from returning to spawning grounds.

Gregory, Lost River Fish Ecology restoration specialist. “These projects that we’re doing, once we get them on the ground, the river not only has the habitat, but it has the ability to function. We can fix the whole thing here.”

The fix started about five years ago.

Annually, excavators, engineers, and other “boots on the ground” dive into the slow but steady sectional repairs restoring connectivity throughout the Yankee Fork drainage. The window of opportunity for such extreme work is narrow because the “Yank” is a cold and shady place.

The water is even colder. Wade fishermen can find trout in its pools during what feels like an abbreviated fishing season, but the limited mild weather also limits construction. The loud “beep” of heavy machinery moving in reverse only bounces off the choppy ridges for a few snow-free weeks in late summer and early fall. That’s when workers restructure the ponds into channels and reconnect the disconnects. They use bulldozers to remove tailings and relieve blockage while helicopter pilots drop timber for fish cover as the flow finds its way again. All JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 9

HEADWATERS

ler.com ricanang ’s e m .a w Visit ww ee Kris Millgate , to s , THE FIX short filmYankee Fork about thetion project. restora

Though no longer functioning, the massive dredge remains along the Yankee Fork (bottom), but by using a combination of heavy machinery (top left) and hard manual labor (top right), workers have been able to work around the rig, and reconnect and rehabilitate more of this valuable watershed every year.

of the rearranging and shuffling about is a bustling sight to see and it costs millions—approximately $7 million since 2012, and there are still piles of projects planned for the decade ahead.

“The cost per day or cost per project is fairly minor when you consider the cost of not having rivers that work, and not having the animals that they support,” Wood says. “I would really like to see an Idaho where we get our rivers back to a fairly natural state and a fairly functional state like they used to be and you won’t need river restoration specialists anymore.”

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Leave It Be One construction zone at a time, those specialists Wood refers to are helping the Yankee Fork behave more like nature intended rather than what it was mined for. Otters, beavers, mountain goats, deer, steelhead, and salmon are making their presence known with the return of the waterway. Results are encouraging, but not everyone likes what’s going on.

“I think it’s a waste of money,” Allen says. “I’d leave the tailings. No question.

That’s what this valley is about. This valley is about mining. It’s not about fishing.

Salmon still come up. Maybe not in numbers that they used to, but they don’t come up anywhere in the numbers they used to. Why destroy this for a couple of fish? You’ll never convince me that what they’re doing down there is advantageous compared to how much money they’re spending.”

More than 100 people are members of the YFGDA. Some are mining families. Others are friends of Idaho’s rich mining heritage. The old gold dredge they revere is still in the Yankee Fork.

It’s beached on Forest Service property, but the YFGDA runs the daily tours.

Around 8,000 tourists filter through the historic site between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The tailings, the result of collecting about $1 million in gold in an area estimated to hold $16 million, are part of the tour. Heaping stockpiles of relocated stone fan out across the original, abandoned riverbed like waves made of rock instead of water. Those waves are known as windrows, and restoration wipes out windrows for, as Allen says, a couple of fish. But there’s more to it than that.

“Certainly fish is one of the big reasons we’re engaged in this effort, but really what we’re doing is restoring a watershed,” says Bart Gamett, U.S. Forest Service fish biologist. “That means clean water. It means a better place for people to come to recreate, and overall, a healthier system that we’ll leave to future generations.”

I document the restoration via photo and film for three days and wrap up the shoot in a prone position on the beaver dam. I hold my breath with reverence as the dying, yet defensive, Chinook swims toward the logs I’m laying on. Its tip and tail are moldy gray with decay. I know it can’t see me, but I keep myself, and my wading boots, clear of the waterline anyway. There’s a redd three feet upstream of me. The Chinook is protecting its spawning bed while on its deathbed. The scene, a struggle infused with serenity, stills me like nothing else can and stays with me like nothing else ever will.

Outdoor journalist Kris Millgate is based in Idaho Falls, Idaho. See more of her work at www.tightlinemedia.com.

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NEWS

ELWHA SALMON RETURN For the first time in a century, Chinook migrate to ancestral spawning grounds.

Last September, a snorkel study on the Elwha River (bottom) confirmed salmon were migrating past the old dam site (top) for the first time in over 100 years.

AFTER A 102-YEAR ABSENCE, SALMON AND OTHER FISH ARE FREELY MIGRATING upstream on Oregon’s Elwha River and reaching spawning areas that were virtually inaccessible until the Elwha Dam came down in 2011.

The sighting occurred last September after a member of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe reported a possible salmon sighting in the former Lake Mill area. To confirm the sighting, two Olympic National Park fisheries staff members conducted a snorkel survey and found three adult Chinook salmon between 30- and 36-inches long. Two of the fish were resting near submerged stumps, and the third was in a deep pool of the former lake. It’s the first time salmon have been spotted in that portion of the river since the Elwha Dam’s demolition.

“When dam removal began three years ago, Chinook salmon were blocked far downstream by the Elwha Dam,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum. “Today, we celebrate the return of Chinook to the upper Elwha River for the first time in over a century. Thanks to the persistence and hard work of many National Park Service employees, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, and many other partners, salmon can once again reach the pristine Elwha watershed within Olympic National Park.”

But Chinook salmon aren’t the only ones benefiting from the removal of the barrier. In addition to the Chinook, biologists sighted 27 bull trout, and nearly 400 rainbow trout between the old dam site and approximately three miles upstream. The day after the snorkel study, biologists counted 432 Chinook in a 1.75 mile section of river just downstream, and a week later, biologists confirmed two radio-tagged bull trout migrated through the old dam canyon.

Sage Partners On Lodge

Renowned fly rod maker enters the lodging and hospitality industry.

L

AST OCTOBER, ONE OF THE most recognizable brands in fly fishing, Sage rods, announced it plans to lend its name to a resort lodge slated to open in late 2018 on the banks of Montana’s Yellowstone River, and effectively establish the company’s first foray into the tourism market.

Sage is working with the lodge owner, the Joshua Green Corporation, and its designers, builders, and hospitality management company to get the project off the ground. When it’s all said and done, the facility will have 34 rooms and four standalone cabins, a spa, restaurant, and on- and off-site amenities like horseback riding, dogsledding, and snowshoeing. But the main attraction for fly anglers will be the lodge’s location—about 30 miles from Yellowstone National Park and an hour from Bozeman, with views of Emigrant Peak and

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a mile of frontage on the Yellowstone.

Room rates are projected to start at $300 a night, and guests can book individual rooms in the freestanding cabins or collectively sleep groups up to 16 people, and there will be indoor and outdoor meeting spaces suited for up to 150 people.

“Sage Lodge will truly speak the language of adventure seekers and those looking to be inspired by the great outdoors,” said Stan McCammon, president and CEO of the Joshua Green Corporation. “The Green family, now in its sixth generation, is comprised of fly fishing and outdoor enthusiasts, and this magnificent property will offer endless opportunities for generations of families, friends, and the community to enjoy.”

For more information about Sage Lodge, visit www.sagelodge.com.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 11

HEADWATERS

1

GUIDE FLIES BY DAVID KLAUSMEYER

The Wing’s the Thing

The Light Cahill

2

(there is a separate fly pattern by that name) is one of our most famous mayfly patterns. On some rivers, the duns have a tendency to emerge throughout the day and the trout never seem to key into them; on other waters, you might encounter a more vigorous hatch that gets the fishes’ attention.

There are many patterns designed to imitate the Light Cahill insects, and the Cahill Quill is certainly a member of that family. This important pattern is delicate and perfectly proportioned; use it as a model when tying your own Cahill Quills.

CAHILL QUILL

3

HOOK: Regular dry fly hook, sizes 16 to 10.

THREAD: Tan 8/0.

TAIL: Ginger hackle fibers.

BODY: Stripped herl from the eye of a peacock herl feather.

WING: Wood duck flank fibers.

HACKLE: Ginger saddle hackle.

Making Split Flank-Feather Wings

4

There are a couple of ways to make lovely wings on a Catskill-style dry fly.

Some tiers place one wood duck feather on the hook, and then divide the fibers in half to create the two wings. Traditionally, however, tiers used two feathers placed back to back. Here’s how: Place the two feathers together with the tips even. Strip the excess fibers from 1or three the base of each feather. Tie the bare stems to the top of the hook using two loose thread wraps. Draw the feathers toward the rear of the fly until

the wing fibers are the proper length; the height of the finished wing will about match the length of the hook shank. Lock the feathers in place with several tight thread wraps.

Some tiers cut the butt ends even, but this will create a hump and perhaps a 2lengths. lumpy finished body. I prefer cutting the butt ends of the feathers at different Later, when we wrap the thread to the end of the hook, this will create a

5

more level underbody.

the wing feathers upright. Wrap a small dam of thread in front of the 3Pull feathers to hold them upright. the fibers in half to create the two wings. Make several figure-eight 4Divide wraps between the wings. the thread to the end of the hook shank so you have a level underbody 5Wrap for making the rest of the pattern.

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I fished the Missouri River during an amazing Trico hatch, and I swore the fish didn’t stop feeding all morning. Do trout possess any sort of “trigger” or sensation that tells them to back away from the buffet?

Trout choose their feeding positions, and ultimately their territories, by the net amount of energy they gain from holding in a particular position. You can calculate net energy gain by taking the amount of energy obtained from foraging in a given lie and subtracting the amount expended via searching, pursuing, capturing, handling, digesting, and excreting prey. Trout feeding on small prey like Tricos likely have relatively low search and handling costs, but pursuit, capture, and digestive costs may be moderate to high. That’s why I’m not surprised when I see trout feeding throughout the day on small prey. Under such conditions, trout must feed for longer time periods just to meet their daily energy needs. Conversely, trout feeding on large, energy-rich prey like mayflies, sedges, and stoneflies will feed for much shorter periods because they can quickly meet their energy needs. Finally, a feeding trout is focused on prey and more susceptible to predation, so there is a selective advantage to minimizing foraging time if it can still meet its daily energy requirements.

Regardless of prey intake, a variety of factors affect satiation in trout including water temperature, fish size, prey type and abundance, and digestibility. Water temperature controls the basal metabolic rate of trout and other fishes. Trout are coldwater specialists but within the range of temperatures they occupy, their basal metabolic rate will be higher at higher temperatures—consequently, their daily energy requirements will also be higher.

The relationships between satiation and the remaining factors are all fairly simple. Fish will become satiated more quickly on large, abundant, energy-rich, easily-digestible prey, than on small, rare, energy-poor prey that’s hard to digest. Finally, large fish take longer to become satiated than small fish, simply because they have larger guts to fill. Physiologically, however, it’s a complex biochemical response within a fish that produces that final feeling of satiation.

Gary D. Grossman, PhD, is Professor of Animal Ecology in the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. He is also the 2014 recipient of the American Fisheries Society’s Carl Sullivan Award for excellence in fishery conservation. If you have a question for Dr. Trout, email it to drtroutamericanangler@ gmail.com.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 13

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Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 1,167.

Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 1,167. F. Total free distribution (sum of 15c and 15e). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 30,266. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 40,900. G. Copies not Distributed. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 13,597. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 1,304. H. Total (sum of 15f and 15g). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 43,864. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing: 42,204. I. Percent paid. Average percent of copies paid for the preceding 12 months: 96.1% Actual percent of copies paid for the preceding 12 months: 97.1% 16. Electronic Copy Circulation: A. Paid Electronic Copies. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. B. Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0.

Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. C. Total Print Distribution (Line 15f) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. D. Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c x 100). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0.0%. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0.0%. I certify that 50% of all distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above nominal price: Yes. Report circulation on PS Form 3526-X worksheet 17. Publication of statement of ownership will be printed in the January/February 2018 issue of the publication. 18. Signature and title of editor, publisher, business manager, or owner: Scott Ferguson. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanction and civil actions.

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HEADWATERS GRASSROOTS

LOUISIANA COASTAL

CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION WWW.CCALOUISIANA.COM • BY JOSHUA BERGAN

T

HE GULF OF MEXICO OFFERS some of the best saltwater fishing on the continent, but constant threats like the changing climate, oil development, over fishing, erosion, and a host of other influences, threaten it. But since 1982, when a group of concerned anglers decided to work together towards solutions, the Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana (CCA) has helped protect and restore this important area.

Recently, Chief Executive Officer David Cresson talked about the group’s work.

Again, this is why CCA Louisiana has increased our efforts in this arena in recent years, serving as a voice for our coastal fisheries and for anglers in regard to coastal restoration and protection efforts.

What impact has the increased frequency of severe storms and hurricanes had on fishing along the Louisiana coast?

While it may be true that reduced fishing effort immediately after a storm could have positive impacts on fish populations, the fact remains that any action that further deteriorates fish habitat will have a long-term negative effect on those fish populations. The CCA works very closely with the state of Louisiana on coastal restoration and protection efforts, with a focus on impacts to our fisheries.

What impact has your fish tagging program had?

It was with great vision that in 1987 the CCA created a redfish tag and recapture program. Today, thanks to those efforts, the Shell corporation, and our program partners, the refocused program introduces volunteer anglers to more qualitative or “scientific” methods for reporting their tag and recapture information. The more precise data will yield information we can use to better understand the unique life histories of fish, including movement patterns, growth rates, reaction to habitat change, and other environmental factors. These volunteer anglers provide information that is difficult, often impossible, and expensive to obtain by other means. To date, the program has seen about 300,000 fish tagged by more than 5,000 anglers, and nearly 12,000 recaptures reported.

What is the biggest environmental threat facing the Louisiana coast?

While there are many factors that present threats, the erosion of Louisiana’s coastline is clearly the biggest environmental threat to Louisiana’s marine fisheries.

Grassroots is a recurring column that profiles small, localized efforts to protect or rehabilitate clean water and fisheries.

If you’d like us to consider your organization for a future issue, email the editor at benjaminromans@gmail.com.

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NEW PRODUCTS

Come Rain or Shine

A functional wading jacket can help you spend more time on the water, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.

Fly anglers love water.

Cabela’s GuideLite Anorak / $150

We love to wade in it, walk along it, stand in a boat on top of the surface, and feel it between our fingers when we release a fish. More than anything, we love it because of what lives inside it—those precious finned creatures that can both delight and frustrate us. However, in droplet or flake form, falling from above and working its way down your neck and back, water can be a downright unpleasant nuisance. That’s why a comfortable, yet functional, wading jacket is worth the extra pack weight. Despite what the weatherman says, there’s simply no way to always know what to expect. But by having that additional layer of protection, you’ll be able to weather a storm during those magic times when fish are falling for anything you throw at them. To help you find the best weather barrier for your buck, here are a few other considerations and a small selection of jackets from leading manufacturers.

Patagonia Minimalist / $200

JUST BREATHE / Most wading jackets do a fantastic job of keeping water out, but if it’s not made of some type of moisture wicking or breathable fabric, you could end up wet and cold regardless, as the natural condensation between your body and clothing accumulates and has nowhere to go.

L.L. Bean Apex Wading Jacket / $300

HEADGEAR / There’s likely no more irritating feeling, or faster way to get chilled on the water, than by way of cold, falling water landing on the back of your head and neck, soaking your base layers, and eventually making its way to parts unknown. Thankfully, most jacket makers these days put a lot of thought into collar and hood design. Try on a coat and flip on the hood to make sure it doesn’t limit your range of motion, block your vision, conflict with your favorite cap, or impede your hearing. If it sits snug around your head and keeps water on the outside, it’s a winner.

Simms G3 Guide Tactical Jacket / $500

CUFF ‘EM / Aside from the neck, another common port for water to slide under a jacket is through the wrist cuff. Think about it—if you’re casting, you’re occasionally pointing your cuff into rain, and if you release fish, water will find a way in. Look at different cuff designs on jackets and cinch them down around your wrist to see which gasket fits you best.

Orvis Women’s Pro Jacket / $350 WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

ZIP IT / Along with the advent of waterproof packs and bags, waterproof zippers continue to get better and better. If possible, spring for a jacket with strings of teeth that offer your fly boxes, phones, keys, or anything else you can’t afford to lose, the most protection from the elements and that river baptism you don’t plan to take.

Snowbee Geo Wading Jacket / $300 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 15

HEADWATERS 5 QUESTIONS

5

RYAN ALLEN

QUESTIONS An artist finds his niche and copes with grief WITH . . . through wood burning, carpentry, and fly fishing.

BY KAITLIN BARNHART

R

YAN ALLEN DIDN’T BECOME an artist the “traditional way”— his journey and artistic style began with a cutthroat trout and an unfinished longboard his father built.

Formally trained as a teacher, he spent his spare time fly fishing every river drainage in Idaho, building longboards with his family, and dabbling with pyrography (a form of wood burning). But after a family tragedy, Ryan’s hobbies became his saving grace, and a newfound drive for creating art, emerged.

After losing his brother, artist Ryan Allen focussed on his artwork, and fishing.

Q A

You have your hands in several careers—How do you balance all your passions and hobbies?

I describe myself as a fly fisherman, but I’m also a longboard designer, pyrographer, artist, assistant wrestling coach, and I work for the public school district teaching behavior management and helping troubled students achieve their academic goals. I love where I’m at with teaching right now because I’m able to mentor kids who need the most encouragement—to see them gain confidence in their academic abilities and be able to rejoin sports teams is very rewarding. As a kid, I struggled with ADHD and had a difficult time with school, so I can relate with my students and know they appreciate having someone to come alongside them.

Since I am so passionate about my art and about fly fishing, I’m thankful my teaching career allows time for me to pursue both year-round. I’m always trying to find some sense of balance within my schedule—which usually means getting out of cell service range, fishing hard with friends, giving back to my communities, and focusing on developing my art every chance I get.

Q

When did you discover fly fishing and how did it alter your life?

16 I AMERICAN ANGLER

A

I’ve loved fishing my entire life, whether I was dangling a hook off a stick with fishing line I found in my Grandma’s arts and crafts box as a kid, or once I got my license, driving every day after school to the river. My dad first introduced me to fly fishing when I was 12 years old, but I was generally self-taught—I read books, spent time on the water, and listened to and watched experienced anglers. I read Maclean’s A River Runs Through It about nine times and watched the movie about a thousand times because I was so intrigued with the beauty of casting.

After high school, I considered colleges based on what rivers were nearby.

At Boise State, I would carry my fly rod to class and draw fish pictures all over my class note margins. Then, during semester breaks, I would choose my route home to North Idaho based on fishing conditions. If I went the long way, I’d fish the Silver Creek, the Salmon, Beaverhead, Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Coeur d’Alene rivers. I’d take another route in the winter

and fish the Payette, Salmon, and Clearwater for trout and steelhead.

Q A

What attracted you to longboards and eventually combine them with your art?

I started riding a longboard in college because my friends convinced me it was the fastest way to get to class.

I asked my dad if he would buy a board and he said, “No, but I’ll teach you to make one.” It was awesome—like an oldschool surf board, and I rode it like crazy.

He built a bunch of boards, but realized the longboard business wasn’t great in Idaho. He taught my brother Justin and I how to make them too, and I simply decided to put my artwork on boards for fun. I grabbed a soldering iron from Home Depot and just started burning my designs into the wood. I got better and better and learned what I could do with my newfound tools. Since I was obsessed with fish, my art naturally became a way to relive my time spent fishing during the weekends—every board had a picture of WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

a fish I caught or an outdoor experience I wanted to capture.

Building longboards became our family’s summer break tradition. We would build as many boards as we could and I’d take them back to college and continue working on perfecting my pyrographic skills while Justin would continue developing his own style of spray painting boards. Eventually we were selling boards to pay for gas to go to class and to go fish, and for beer. It was a great time. Sadly, it was cut short. Justin, a freshman in college, passed away after a tragic motorcycle accident in 2010.

Q A

After your brother’s accident, how long did it take you to go back to longboards and fishing?

After the initial shock of my brother passing, there was a time when it was difficult to build boards without him.

After a while, I just immersed myself in building again because I needed a way to cope with his loss. I poured myself into building boards and focused more on my artwork as a way to numb my mind.

I would go to my shop and try to work as hard as I could, and then I would go to the rivers to just think about nothing but

Allen says the time spent fly fishing helped him grieve, but also inspired him to push his skills as an artist.

A

fishing. These hobbies gave me time to process, and gave me an outlet for grieving—it was a way to be distracted when I was feeling like I couldn’t handle the hard reality, but it also provided an opportunity for me to face the truth in some ways.

During that time, my art skills developed tremendously and I explored new pyrography tools, and my connection between fly fishing and art became stronger.

Even though I was in a state of grief, I was able to grow as an artist because I kept forcing myself to express my emotions through my work, and it’s something I continue to do today.

Q

What’s your advice for others that might be living through a similar experience and what’s next for you?

My best advice for anyone is to pursue your passions, even when you’re going through hard times. It’s still distressing, but it’s better than chasing things that don’t matter or getting hung up with unhealthy lifestyle choices. Find your passions and turn them into something that counters the pain. Also, take time to teach friends about fly fishing too—it’s terrific medicine.

My long-term goal is to keep exploring my skills as an artist and hopefully share my style with a larger part of the world. I started a company in 2006 called NoHo (www.nohoboardco.com), named after my North Idaho home, but it’s not just a longboard company—I’ve been doing fine art pieces for companies across the country, creating designs for a couple of brands, and developing my own clothing line. I’m always looking for opportunities to grow—there is just so much to learn.

Kaitlin Barnhart is a freelance writer and program coordinator for The Mayfly Project. She teaches fly fishing and blogs under the name “Mammaflybox,” encouraging families to fish together.

BOOKS

Swisher’s Selections & Schweitzer’s Sliders

Two new releases can help you make the most of your time at the tying bench.

FLIES FOR SELECTIVE TROUT Doug & Sharon Swisher • $27.99; Skyhorse

Doug Swisher co-wrote Selective Trout, one of the bestselling fly fishing books of all time. Now he’s back with brand new flies. After the publication of Selective Trout, many fly tying books pushed the merits of the types of flies Carl Richards and Doug Swisher developed—flies like the No-Hackle Dun, Hen Spinner, Emerger, and Stillborn. A few years later, in the early 2000s, the emphasis switched drastically to streamer and attractor patterns. Flies for Selective Trout includes a little of the old and the new by covering no-hackle flies and many of Doug and Sharon’s new attractor flies like his No Hackle PMD, Duckquill Emerger, Mono Caddis Pupa, and Velcro Green & Mean, as well as info on where they developed the flies and how to fish them.

DESIGNING POPPERS, SLIDERS & DIVERS Steve Schweitzer • $45.95; Pixachrome Publishing

Designing Poppers, Sliders, and Divers is the most comprehensive book ever written for anyone interested in making protopwater flies. It includes 300 pages that are divided into three comprehensive sections explaining the methods, pro cedures, and examples of how to tie these amazing patterns. Richly illustrated with 800 detailed color photos, there are dozens of tips and DIY information on things like the tools and materials required, the 12 most common design elements to consider when making poppers, and step-by-step instructions and photos for the world’s 17 most effective poppers, sliders, and divers. With help from this book, anyone can build highly-effective topwater flies for fresh or saltwater game fish.

WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 17

HISTORY I

BY WILL RYAN

Western Dreams Tracing the link between American fly fishing and Rocky Mountain trout waters.

F

OR ITS INITIAL FORAY INTO THE world of angling, the inaugural issue of Sports Illustrated (8/16/54) led with a feature article entitled “The Best Vacation Trout Fishing,” a breathless review of the waters around Yellowstone Park, where the “dimples of feeding trout [appeared] like rain on the water.” Author John McDonald, poster child for all that was eastern in fly fishing, most recently editor of The Complete Fisherman: The Notes and Letters of Theodore Gordon, conceded that catching western trout required skills, but only after he’d seduced the folks back home with dimples-likerain passages. The readers knew the scenes as both true and unbelievable, more or less what was to be expected of a splashy magazine article on the American West. From rivers with gold to mountains that reach the sky, it has never been certain where fact ends and fantasy begins.

As fly fishers, we have long been

drinking that Kool-Aid. The West has the best trout fishing on the continent!

(It probably does.) And, the exclamation point is unnecessary. (But, damn, it’s tough to leave it out.)

Understanding the West’s contribution to the American fly fishing tradition is an eely matter. Teasing out the reality from 150 years of legend feels like the historical equivalent of dealing with a snarl of dropper flies while waist deep in a river.

Better to wade to shore, draw a breath and start the untangling with some individual strands or stories. Here are three.

“Skitter ‘em”

T

he first myth to throw out the window is that 19th century western fly fishermen didn’t exist, as the new arrivals were too busy scratching out a living to fish. The few that did so were hopelessly ignorant and more primitive versions of eastern sophisticates—or so the story

goes. The book, With Rod and Line in Colorado Waters, published in 1884, suggests otherwise.

The author, Lewis B. France, was a fly fishing pioneer in every sense of the word. Born in Washington, D.C. in 1833, France grew up in a prosperous family, and eventually became a lawyer. He and his wife Rowena set out for Colorado in 1861, joining the rush for gold, which it turns out, had more or less already ended. Regardless, the newlyweds set up housekeeping in “an unchinked log cabin in a tiny Denver City,” in the words of historian John Monnett.

Not long after they arrived, France’s neighbor from over the ridge invited him to go fishing. He gave France half a dozen flies and told France to just “skitter ‘em.”

France, who had never before fished with flies, did so with a freshly cut pole fixed with a linen line.

Before long, France experienced fly fishing’s timeless thrill: He gave “that plum sapling a swing… land[ing] the John McDonald, author of The Complete Fly Fisherman (above), penned an article for the first issue of Sports Illustrated (left) that romanticized Rocky Mountain fly fishing, though its hard to know where his facts ended and fantasy began.

18 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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U.S. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

fly… just at the edge of the swirl…[I] saw a salmon-colored mouth, [felt] a tug, and the following second my first trout was flying over my head.”

From there, France really got into fly fishing, as we might say today. That winter he built a rod. He soon had a favorite fly and method, namely a brown-bodied, gray hackle skimmed across the surface.

This approach seems quite refined when compared to the fishing back East, where wet flies were so bright they blinded, and the only “skittering” was done by commercial pickerel fishermen with cane poles and pork rinds. As Paul Schullery writes in his book, Cowboy Trout, “Western fly fishing doesn’t lack a history. It just lacks historians.”

It Looked So Easy

W

hat about the even more powerful myth of endless trout so naïve that anyone can catch ‘em? This “backing up the buckboard” version of fish abundance gained steam in the first two decades of the 20th century. Between President

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While it was the foresight of pioneers like Theodore Roosevelt that helped protect large swaths of the Rockies, it was intel and maps (below) from folks like Lewis B. France that attracted anglers to many of the West’s most famous waters.

Theodore Roosevelt (who’d spent years roaring around the West and lived to tell the tales), Wild West Shows, and the popularity of Yellowstone Park, the West fired the American imagination like never before.

One angler named Aimee Morrison (which may not have been her real name) wrote of her excellent western adventure in the January 1919 issue of Outer’s Recreation, in an article called “Great Sport: A Fishing Story.” Morrison told of a 10-day fly fishing trip to Colorado, where she was on her own,

“travelnobody’s wife, girlfriend, sister, or “travel ing companion.”

A novice in camp full of fly fishermen, Morrison initially struck out. She found that vacations were different out West.

Nobody offered to help. What you caught mattered more than where you were

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 19

HISTORY from, whom you knew, or what you did before you got here. So, she taught herself to fly cast. And wouldn’t you know it, her feelings about the West brightened after she put a few trout in her basket. Most of us can relate.

Morrison’s experience shows how mass culture (in this case, tourism) helped create the modern world of fly fishing. Even more telling is how the promise of abundance landed her in the West. In Morrison’s words, “it was that picture that set me a-going…it looked so entrancing and so easy to land a mountain trout.” She might have seen an ad or, more likely, a stereograph (the ubiquitous small twin images viewed through a stereoscope). Morrison has since been lost to history, but her western dreams remain alive and more intoxicating than ever.

Getting Lost

I

f Morrison wrote about what “it was like” to be pulled west, Dan Bailey fashioned the dream into an institution, with an industrial-strength fly tying and mail order operation, and an internationally renowned fly shop. A physics professor and PhD candidate, Bailey lived in New York and palled around with Preston Jen-

Though they were friends, A Book of Trout Flies author Preston Jennings favored flies that mimicked naturals, whereas Bailey only cared that a fly worked.

nings, Lee Wulff, and the above-mentioned, John McDonald—and other fly fishing luminaries. But the academic life did not suit Bailey, and he and his wife, Helen, began to make plans to move west as early as the

mid-1930s, and to open a fly shop.

Once there, Bailey maintained his many contacts from the East. As Charley Waterman explains in Mist On the River: Remembrances of Dan Bailey, “The Bailey business and reputation were built largely through correspondence and if Dan received an inquiry about fishing in the Montana area he simply sat down and answered it personally with his pipe and portable typewriter.”

And Wulff, McDonald, Joe Brooks, Ed Zern, Erwin Bauer, and other writers and photographers not only showed up, but created words and pictures that drew others. Bailey did his best to keep it real (admittedly with outlines of huge trout looking down from the wall of fame in his shop). Waterman tells how he took pride in selling anglers only what they needed.

The same attitude governed Bailey’s philosophy toward flies. His friend Preston Jennings had published A Book Of Trout Flies (1935), the first entomological text for the fly fisher. (see “Please Hold Your Applause” in the Sept/Oct 2017 issue of American Angler). At first glance, the two men couldn’t have been more different, at least in their attitudes toward flies and imitation. Jennings collected naturals

Armed with a passion for the sport and a host of famous fly fishermen he called friends, famed angler Dan Bailey (right) attracted masses of anglers to the West and set the mold for what a western fly shop (left and middle) should be.

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COURTESY OF AMERICAN MUSEUM OF FLY FISHING

Preston Jennings (right) made countless trips to the West to not only fish, but to study the region’s rich aquatic insect life.

and designed patterns to imitate them. He was interested in the artificials’ relations to the natural insect they imitated. Bailey cared that they worked.

Part of the idea of the western tie probably owes something to Dan Bailey.

Although he didn’t invent the Muddler Minnow, he did help popularize it in the 1950s. He did the same with the Wulff series. Those and other flies have exemplified how the “western” fly fishing supposedly took eastern prototypes and made them buggier, more general.

Like any stereotype, such a notion has probably outlived its usefulness, even if it began as a grain of truth. (Today, of course, successful western angling, like angling anywhere, often requires the tiniest of flies.) With stoneflies and grasshoppers as predominant naturals, such an historical tendency probably had more to do with biology rather than a lack of refinement. Or, put another way, perhaps Bailey and his friend Jennings were not as far away from one another as we have pushed them.

But matters of size and dimension may play out in other ways. In Cowboy Trout, Paul Schullery explains that “…fly fishing, like the West itself, is in good part an exercise in imagination, if not dreams.”

That certainly has a part in the stories of each of the three folks above. It may be easiest to see in Morrison, who more or less says as much. But it is there in France, who was fashioning fly rods in 1860s Colorado, and in the Baileys, too, who left a paying job, drove across the country and opened a business—all in the depths of the Depression.

The act of imagining also involves a certain freeing from life’s “shoulds,” what we might call, “being in the moment.”

Waterman tells of the first time he went fishing with Bailey, and how he (Waterman) got back to the car after bushwhacking through willows and didn’t know where the hell Bailey was. Waterman and his wife, Debie, both decided to shine the headlights on the woods, in hopes that Dan would see them. Sure enough, he emerged from the underWWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

brush, saying “You did the right thing. I always get lost when I go down there.”

As Charley explained, “He simply didn’t care much about where he was when he was fishing and tended to wait until dark before deciding how to get back to the camp or car.”

There is a good deal of thinking involved in fly fishing. It is nice to some-

times let your imagination be in charge.

Will Ryan teaches expository writing at Hampshire College. He is also a columnist with our sister publication, Gray’s Sporting Journal. His most recent book Gray’s Sporting Journal’s Noble Birds and Wily Trout has been published by Lyons Press, an imprint of Globe Pequot Press.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 21

22 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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®

SWEET SPOT Congratulations to Chris Parker of Chardon, Ohio for correctly identifying last issue’s Sweet Spot destination as the Gibbon River inside Yellowstone National Park. For this round, we’re staying inside the park and showcasing a river that fishes well all year, even in the middle of winter.

Submit your best guess at www.AmericanAngler.com for a chance to enter into the drawing for a new pair of Transfer sunglasses ($170) from Smith.

Photo by John Juracek/ Images On The Wildside.

SPONSORED BY

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 23

r e m Strea

KINGS GEORGE DANIEL

CHAD JOHNSON

TOMMY LYNCH

THREE BIG-FLY GURUS explain how to catch more (and larger) trout using meaty patterns.

By Steve Culton 24 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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JEREMY ALLEN

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 25

F

OR YEARS, I REFUSED TO USE STREAMERS on trout waters. What a mistake! At certain times, streamers are the highest percentage play and often the best way to entice trophy fish. But more than that, streamer fishing for trout is just plain fun.

Who doesn’t dream about holding a kype-jawed, spotted behemoth you can measure in feet rather than inches?

While I usually write from my own understandings, I’ve often wondered what goes on inside the minds of great streamer tiers and anglers. So I picked the brains of some of the best, both behind the vise and on the water, and the result is a kind of roundtable discussion in print among three streamer savants.

George Daniel, a former member of Fly Fishing Team USA, guide, and author of Strip-Set, Chad Johnson, a guide and fly designer renowned for his relentless pursuit of big fish on big flies, and Tommy Lynch, whose prowess as fly tier, guide, and angler has earned him the nickname “The Fish Whisperer,” offered up the goods in spades.

All three anglers live in different parts of the country and fish distinctly different river systems. (Daniel resides in Pennsylvania, Lynch in Michigan, and Johnson in Arkansas.) That geographic diversity carried over into our conversations and each expert offered some unique perspectives, experiences, and a fascinating range of proven streamer tactics you may have never considered.

Some of their responses are edited for brevity and clarity, but keep in mind there aren’t any wrong answers here—only the ones that are right for you.

What’s a good, all-purpose rod for streamers?

Daniel: Most of the streamers I fish are between 2- and 4-inches long, so I use an all-around trout rod, like a 10-foot long 4- or 5-weight. When I want to nymph, I nymph. When I want to cast dries, I cast dries. If I decide the conditions warrant streamer fishing, then I don’t need to carry two rods. When I go to places where I’ll be fishing for larger fish and casting larger flies, I’ll use a beefier rod and line that can carry a heavier payload.

Johnson: I like an 8-weight, fast action rod that can cast heavy lines and big bugs.

Lynch: My personal favorite is a 9 1/2–foot long 7- or 8-weight rod. That extra half-foot is great for roll casting in tight quarters.

What line do you recommend for specific situations?

Daniel: For the small-to-medium sized limestone streams of central Pennsylvania, all I really need is a floating line. There are a lot of midstream obstructions like boulders, so I can mend the line around those obstacles to keep my fly moving. I use a weight-forward, Atlantic salmon/steelhead tapered floater. The long belly helps me make long casts and mends.

Johnson: It depends on so many things. Where in the water column do you want to fish your fly? How fast is the current?

How big is the fly? Does it have a lead head or a deer hair head? I personally like shooting heads, because they can deliver big flies at far distances with very few false casts.

Lynch: I tend to favor anything with a triangle taper—a small diameter forward taper that sinks quickly and offers less

Though it’s sometime tough to remember, try to use a strip set when fishing streamers rather than simply raising the rod tip to set the hook. Because streamer hooks are generally larger, it takes more force to ensure a solid connection with a fish.

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resistance in the current. Though on occasion, we do use floaters in the summertime.

JEREMY ALLEN

How does weather or season change the way you fish streamers?

Daniel: Water temperatures and clarity have more to do with my approach than the actual season. In the winter, with trout likely to be in slow, deep lies, I’ll fish more up and across the water column so I can let my streamer sink to the bottom before very slowly and methodically creeping it along. In the spring, or post-spawn, when trout are on the hunt, I’ll fish more down-and-across or on the swing.

Johnson: On a dark, overcast day, fish may be more willing to move a greater distance to eat. On a bright, sunny day, I’ll more likely fish deep with flies that have more natural colors.

Lynch: In the spawning season, I might fish flies with brown trout colors—something other trout find offensive and want to chase off.

What’s your tactical approach for presentation?

Daniel: I base it all on the conditions. Trout are predators, but they’re lazy. They love an easy meal. So when I’m fishing sculpins or minnows, I fish more up and across the current.

Instead of stripping the fly at such a pace that a trout needs to work and chase down the fly, I’m trying to imitate a dying minnow. That’s my favorite technique, especially on small streams where you need to find trout holding spots. I swing a lot on large, flat rivers, because I can basically cover more water.

Johnson: If a 2-inch long fish can swim four inches with two swipes of its tail, a 4-inch strip would look very natural. So, match the size of your strip to the size of your fly, and make your presentation “broken”—a predator shouldn’t know what your fly is going to do next. If it’s erratic, it appears more natural.

Lynch: The only way to achieve depth with a sink tip is to allow it slack. I don’t start stripping until the fly is at the depth I want it. Then I work a streamer in an erratic, random, drunken flash. Anything that’s kicking with no rhythm indicates injury.

I’m trying to activate the trout’s bite triggers.

What’s your advice for fishing streamers in dirty, high water conditions that keep most anglers home?

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FLY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN ROMANS

Do you build your own leaders?

Daniel: Yes. I like a leader about the same length as the rod. For an 8-foot leader, I’ll make a 4-foot long butt section of 20-pound test and the tippet 4 feet of 10-pound test. It’s pretty basic.

Johnson: I use two leader styles. One is a straight 36-inch long piece of tippet for when I need to get down fast, right off the bank. The other is a 7-foot long tapered build that goes from a 50-pound test butt to a 15-pound test tippet. We call it a big water leader.

Lynch: The leader I build depends on the water I’m fishing.

If I’m fishing the Pere Marquette, I might use a 5- to 7-foot long leader. On the White in Arkansas, I might be fishing a 13-foot long leader. If I’m using a neutrally buoyant fly, that longer leader essentially turns my sink tip line into split shot.

Daniel: When you have raging water, it forces trout to move toward the bank. Plus, light penetration is better in shallow water, so trout have an easier time seeing. So I like to jig a heavily weighted streamer along the bank, high-sticking like I would with a nymph. Use a standard European nymphing line with a level, 8-foot long, 1X or 2X leader.

Johnson: Yes, yes, and yes to muddy water. Think about a

SPARKLE MINNOW

HOOK: Partridge Attitude Streamer, size 2.

THREAD: White UTC 140 denier.

WEIGHT: Medium gold tungsten conehead.

TAIL: Olive over white marabou.

UNDERBODY: White rayon chenille (to add bulk).

BODY: EP Sparkle Brush (color of choice) palmered over the underbody.

BELLY: White EP Anadromus.

CJ’S WHITE RIVER SCULPIN

REAR HOOK: Tiemco 8089, size 6.

THREAD: Wapsi Ultra GSP 100 denier.

TAIL: Whiting American Rooster Saddle Hackle (color of choice).

BODY: 3-inch EP Senyo’s Chromatic Brush and bucktail (colors of choice).

COLLAR: Round rubber legs.

LOOP: 50-pound test monofilament.

BEAD: Dally’s Streamer Ball (color of choice).

FRONT HOOK: Tiemco 8089, size 2.

THREAD: Wapsi Ultra GSP 100 denier.

BODY: 3-inch EP Senyo’s Chromatic Brush and bucktail (colors of choice).

LEGS: Round rubber legs.

OVERWING: Guinea feather (color of choice).

COLLAR: Marabou blood quill (color of choice).

HEAD: Medium Fish-Skull Sculpin Helmet.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 27

trout’s lateral lines. When you’re pulling an 8-inch long streamer through muddy water, fish can feel it, and those fish are most aggressive when they feel comfortable. Don’t be afraid to put a rattle in your fly, or choose a fly that has a big head and pushes water.

Lynch: Dirty, high water rings the dinner bell. Trout are looking up to find silhouettes, which is why black works so well in those conditions. Between the cover of murky water and the riverbanks bleeding nightcrawlers, the fish go on a bender. They critique less and they eat more.

LYNCH’S DRUNK & DISORDERLY

REAR HOOK: Gamakatsu B10S, size 2.

THREAD: Wapsi Ultra GSP 100 denier.

TAIL: Holographic Flashabou or New Age Holo Flash (color of choice).

BODY: UV Polar Chenille and a few turns of rabbit strip (colors of choice).

OVERWING: Mallard flank or guinea fowl (color of choice).

LOOP: 40-pound test RIO Powerflex Wire Bite threaded through two 6-millimeter beads.

FRONT HOOK: Gamakatsu 60-degree jig hook (round bend, flat eye), sizes 2/0 to 4/0.

TAIL: Holographic Flashabou or New Age Holo Flash (color of choice).

UNDERBODY: 4-millimeter glass rattle.

BODY: Wrapped rabbit strip for back half of hook, and UV Polar Chenille for front half (colors of choice).

SIDES: Two select mallard flank feathers (color of choice).

OVERWING: Holographic Flashabou or New Age Holo Flash (colors of choice).

HEAD: Spun and trimmed natural deer hair coated with Clear Cure Goo Thin.

EYES: Molded 3D eyes coated with Clear Cure Goo Thin.

LAFKA’S MODERN DECEIVER

HOOKS: Gamakatsu 48413, size 3/0 (back), Finesse Wide Gap or Tiemco 600SP, sizes 1 to 2/0.

THREAD: Wapsi Ultra GSP 100 denier.

TAIL: Four saddle hackle feathers (color of choice) paired and tied on a 20 millimeter Fish Skull Articulated Fish Spine, under Flashabou Mirage, bucktail, and Polar Chenille.

BACK HOOK: Bucktail, Flashabou Mirage, and Polar Chenille.

SPINE #1: Bucktail, Flashabou Mirage, and Polar Chenille on a 20 millimeter Fish Spine.

SPINE #2: Bucktail, Flashabou Mirage, and Polar Chenille on a 20 millimeter Fish Spine.

SPINE #3: Bucktail, Flashabou Mirage, and Polar Chenille on a 20 millimeter Fish Spine.

LOOP: 50-pound test fluorocarbon.

WEIGHT: Eight turns of .025-inch lead wire wrapped around the top of the front hook bend.

FRONT HOOK TAIL: Bucktail.

BODY: Polar Chenille and Flashabou Mirage.

OVERWING: Peacock herl under bucktail.

BELLY: Bucktail.

NOTE: Use contrasting colors of bucktail and even portions on the top and bottom of the shanks and hooks so the end result is a slim fly with a wide, tapered profile.

28 I AMERICAN ANGLER

Does fishing streamers at night have advantages?

Daniel: Night is one of my favorite times for streamers.

You can catch fish in bright moonlight or total darkness. But a trout’s feeding behavior shifts as light conditions change. On a moonless night, the stream bottom isn’t illuminated, so trout are looking up for silhouettes. In bright conditions, you should use a heavier streamer to get down to the same level as the trout. You can also use a glow-in-the-dark indicator and dead drift streamers.

Johnson: I don’t really do a lot of night fishing. What attracts me to streamer fishing is seeing a big fish chase down and eat my fly. To me, that’s a trophy!

Lynch: At night, you’re catering to a big brown’s feeding schedule. Plus, fish can’t see you. If you’re fishing a mouse they see the starlit sky with something tracking across it in a Vshape—kind of like an arrow pointing at it saying, “kill this.”

What’s your advice on hook sets?

Daniel: Ninety percent of my streamer fishing is done with heavy gauge streamer hooks. So the most effective means for setting the hook is straight force—the strip set. Remember, sometimes trout will hit-to-stun multiple times. If you raise the rod tip, you may take the fly out of their mouth and the water. A strip set keeps the fly in play. But you need to feel and make sure it’s a take, not a bump.

Johnson: A big fish that’s hooked near the bank comes straight toward the boat—it’s running to deep water. So I strip back, but I also bring my rod “down and dirty” by basically sweeping down and to the side with the rod tip pointed at the fish. Start stripping and keep stripping! If the fish can’t take enough line to where you can fight it on the reel, strip his butt in. If the trout hits, but doesn’t take, keep doing exactly what you were doing to get him to eat in the first place. Keep him believing that your fly is real.

Lynch: Match your hook set to the type of hook point you’re fishing. For example, with tarpon, I don’t use the rod at all to set the hook. I strip right through the Biminis and slam the chisel point on that fly home. A small dry fly has a needle-sized point, which requires very little pressure. The nice middle ground is the knife point, typical of today’s streamer hook. You want to strip at least twice to get leverage on the middle or the butt of the rod. Those double strips allow the middle of the rod to set that knife point.

What knot do you use to connect your fly to the leader?

Daniel: I use loop knots while fishing unweighted or neutral buoyant flies on sinking lines. The buoyancy of the flies, along with WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

TIM ROMANO

the current, provides more action to the fly. I tend not to use loop knots with weighted flies as the weight of the fly maintains tension on the leader. In those situations, I’ll use a standard clinch knot.

Johnson: The loop knot is the only knot I use. I feel you kill the action of your flies by hard-tying them to your leader.

Lynch: Yes to the loop knot. Any time you have more slack and less resistance, you’re getting more action. Plus, I trust the loop knot.

How important is streamer color?

Daniel: The most important part of any tactical approach with fly selection is confidence in the pattern. Color matters most in low light or muddy water. For muddy water I’m a big fan of black flies. In the fall, when there may be leaves in the water, I stay away from yellow or orange and go with straight black or white. We have lots of theories about color, but there’s always someone who can prove you wrong!

Johnson: So often, it’s just a feeling. I lean toward dark days/ bright flies, bright days/dark, natural-colored flies. Generally, on a bright, sunny day, the more natural you can keep it the better.

But—and I can’t explain this—chartreuse and white can be a killer on a sunny day. On overcast days when the trout are on the hunt, yellows, olive/yellow, and brown/yellow are my favorites. I think those colors trigger an aggressive attack reflex in male browns.

Lynch: I’m not that big on color. If a predator is in a lane waiting to kill something, it’s like asking, “What color Starburst wouldn’t you eat?” I’m not switching colors every 10 minutes. If you’re constantly digging through your box, you’re losing a lot of fishing time. Confidence is what catches fish, and flies (no matter the color) work better in the water.

Color and size are all subjective considerations when selecting streamers (above), and something that works one day, may not work the next. When it comes to streamer knots, a loop knot (below) is strong and allows the fly greater movement in the water.

2- to 4-inches long.

Johnson: Some of my buddies who fish out West find that a 5-inch fly gets it done better than the 7-incher I use here. I think the question anglers should ask is, “How big does the fly have to be to anger a big, aggressive male brown trout?” It’s different for every watershed.

Lynch: I’ve caught large trout on dinky flies, and vice versa.

But the data points to this: as a fish gets older, he wants to move less. It’s the protein payoff thing—more protein for less work.

They’ll binge feed in high water, then disappear under a logjam and hang out for a month.

Is there a correlation between streamer size and trout size?

Daniel: When I throw large streamers, I move a lot more big fish. But the commitment rate is less than when I use small streamers. I catch most of my big trout on streamers that are CHAD CHORNEY

What are some of your favorite streamers and the situations you like to fish them?

Daniel: Don Coffey’s Sparkle Minnow. Everywhere I’ve gone, it catches fish. And when I’m using a full sink line or sink tip, Tommy Lynch’s Drunk and Disorderly. With its wedgeshaped head, I fish it with long pauses between strips to let the fly line pull the streamer down.

Johnson: If I wanted to be in the upper water column, I’d use CJ’s Big Johnson or CJ’s Sluggo because both have that buoyant deer hair head component. Deer hair wants to float, and the sinking line wants to pull it down, which combines for great action. Alex Lafkas’ Modern Deceiver is a good mid-column fly. To get down even deeper, I’d use CJ’s White River Sculpin.

Lynch: The Drunk and Disorderly has got a lot of action. It’s basically a paper airplane under water. The more bite triggers you hit per cast, the more likely a big fish will move to the fly. I’m also a big fan of Blaine Chocklett’s Game Changers—that is an innovative fly.

Steve Culton is an outdoor writer, guide, speaker, and fly tier.

You can see more of his work at www.currentseams.com.

WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 29

q 2018 r

A rundown of the latest and greatest fly fishing products from the industry’s leading manufacturers.

30 I AMERICAN ANGLER

G. LOOMIS IMX-PRO / $495 TO $575

CORTLAND MKII NYMPH ROD / $675

CABELA’S SYNCH FLY COMBO / $150

B Y B E N RO MA N S

ORVIS HELIOS 3F / $850 TO $900

THE YEAR

L.L. BEAN STREAMLIGHT ULTRA II / $150 TO $200

GEAR OF

HARDY ZEPHRUS ULTRALITE / $680 TO $770

®

We are fly anglers, and we love our gear. Without quality rods, precisely tapered fly lines, and high performance reels, we wouldn’t be able to throw those tight, magical loops on the water. (Or at least believe we can throw those tight, magical loops on the water.) Thankfully, there’s a string of top notch fly fishing manufacturers helping us keep those dreams alive, and each year, they gather, along with other fly fishing pros, personalities, and media, to unveil their latest and greatest innovations. It’s the sport’s first look at what will become the new standards within the sport. To help get you geared up (pun intended) for what’s to come in 2018, here’s a quick overview of the rods, reels, lines, apparel, and other accouterment you can expect to see in your favorite fly shop.

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WINSTON NIMBUS / $650 TO $750

well as 7- to 9-weight two-handed versions, though all break down to four pieces. There are alignment dots on the ferrules for easy pairing, the saltwater models have anodized aluminum reel seats, and anglers can choose between a pearl green or ice blue pearl finish.

In 2014, fly rod icon Sage delivered the Salt, a rod lineup specifically suited for oceangoing anglers. It was so popular IFTD attendees voted it best new saltwater rod, and best of show. For 2018, Sage reworked some components, improved the blank’s performance with their proprietary KonneticHD Technology, and rebranded the collection as the Salt HD ($950). The end result is a selection of 6- to 16-weight models Sage says allow anglers to cast farther, quicker, and more delicately than they could with the original Salt. The visitors at the 2017 IFTD show agreed, and voted it best new saltwater rod.

To create its latest fast-action rod, the CRUX ($400), Redington says its rod designers spent a lot of time perfecting the taper for the best short- and medium-range delivery possible.

The blank itself has a fine diameter for less resistance, but a stiff tip for better strength and turnover. Available in 3- through 10-weight models covered with a lifetime guarantee, all the handles are fashioned with the company’s Angled Key Grip, which is a dense, pre-compressed cork that reportedly reduces hand fatigue. Also worth noting is the Redington’s reworked, introductory level rod, the Minnow combo ($150). Paired with a Mainstream reel, 5-weight line, and rod tube, it’s a great kit for newbie anglers.

WINSTON KAIROS / $475 TO $575

TFO DRIFT / $400

SAGE SALT HD / $950

REDINGTON CRUX / $400

For decades, the Scott G series has been one of the rod maker’s most popular lineups. In 1976, the original G series broke the mold and included features, like a hollow internal ferule, unseen before. Then, in 2006, Scott raised the bar again with the G2 models. For 2018, they’re replacing the G2 with what they’re simply calling the G Series ($845), 12, 2- through 6-weight medium-action rods the company says are more flexible, stronger, 20 percent lighter, and have a faster recovery than any previous G-branded rod. The end result is a stick Scott says has the power to cast with pinpoint accuracy and the bend to protect delicate 7X tippets.

Ever since the re-energized Diamondback Rod Company made it’s grand return to the fly fishing scene a few years ago, their rods have continued to regain a following among anglers and those that simply appreciate a company willing to think outside the box. Rather than rework their formula for 2018, the company decided to create a high-rend rod at a budget price that attracts new anglers to the Diamondback name. The end result is the View ($155 to $165), 9 different 3- through 9-weight, medium-fast action models the company says are designed “for everyday use.” What’s more, each one is covered by Diamondback’s lifetime original owner warranty.

Like Diamondback, L.L. Bean is continuing its long tradition of building quality rods that don’t break an angler’s budget.

The company’s new Streamlight Ultra II ($150 to $200) rod series includes 4- through 9-weight single handed versions, as

THOMAS & THOMAS LOTIC / $595

RODS

NAUTILUS GTX / $1300

HARDY ULTRALITE MTX / $430 TO $500

SAGE SPECTRUM / $ 250 TO $500

WATERWORKS CENTER AXIS ROD & REEL / $750 TO $800

REDINGTON I.D / $ 90 TO $110 32 I AMERICAN ANGLER

Expanding on its popular Zephrus rod lineup, England’s fly fishing powerhouse Hardy unveiled its new Zephrus Ultralite ($680 to $770), which is built with the maker’s propriety Sinitrix 440 material, to cover a small range of sizes, just 2- through 5-weight. Product manager Howard Croston said Hardy steered every thought going into the rod’s design to minimize weight.

Moreover, a few of the blanks stretch well over nine feet for those that are fans of European (long line) nymphing techniques.

The first two iterations of Orvis’s popular Helios rods became one of the company’s best selling sticks, and even spawned a version specifically tailored for permit fishing. But for good reason— the idea was to create something light and strong that allowed anglers to have more control over their casts. For their latest Helios rendition, the Helios 3 ($850 to $900), the company elected to tackle another casting fundamental that troubles some anglers— accuracy. Using new materials and a new construction process, the company says there are 25 models available in 3- through 12-weight, with either an “F” designation, for moderate action, or “3D” for longer, pinpoint accurate, albeit delicate, casts.

Another company leveraging on the success of past rods is St. Croix. Though it’s been a successful model for a decade or so, the company upgraded its Imperial USA ($230 to $320) lineup with a redesigned reel seat, handle, blank color, and line guide configuration—all hand built in Wisconsin and covered by a 15-year transferable warranty. The new series includes 28 different versions, from 2- through 10-weight, with four switch rods in the mix.

For a while, G. Loomis has been using its IMX-PRO Matrix material to fashion conventional rods targeted for tournament bass anglers and the like. Now it’s adapting the same material and engineering into a series of fly rods simply called the IMXPRO ($495 to $575). What’s unique about their latest series is that in addition to the eight trout-sized outfits, they’re also producing two one-piece streamer rods for 7- and 8-weight lines, and five short Spey sticks that stretch almost 12-feet long.

Since its inception, acclaimed rod maker Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO) has had no problem attracting some of fly fishing most respected icons to its pro staff—names like Kreh, Pallot, Clouser, Popovics, and Dahlberg. It’s helped them become a household name (talk to any fly angler, and there’s a solid chance he or she owns at least one TFO rod). Recently, they unveiled a new rod called the Drift ($400), designed under the tutelage of their latest pro staff addition, American Angler contributor Jason Randall, to help meet the needs of anglers using tight-line Czech, Polish, or French nymphing techniques. To that point, you can easily extend this 9- foot, 3-weight to 10-, 11-, or just over 12-feet long on the water—the guide and ferule configuration don’t require removing a fly or restringing the rod. There’s also an attachable 3-inch long lower cork grip if you’re interested in the new micro Spey lines and similar techniques.

Last May, after a disastrous fire consumed the tools, materials, and structure that housed Winston Rod Company’s bamboo division, the company vowed to “double down” it’s rod-building efforts and rebuild. That fortitude carried over into other facets of Winston’s business and rod designers were happy to unveil the Nimbus ($650 to $750) and Kairos ($475 to $575) rod lineups WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

for 2018. Built on the same graphite composite as the maker’s Boron lineup, designers tried to create a rod with a powerful, progressive action throughout the freshwater, saltwater, and Spey models. The Kairos is the latest offering for those that like the Winston rod feel, but don’t want to break the bank. It has a modern, fast action suited for any number of freshwater or saltwater applications.

Because so many anglers hold its high-end, lavish bamboo rods in such high regard, the new Lotic ($595), a fiberglass offering from Thomas & Thomas, had heads turning at IFTD. Available in only 3- to 5-weight models, the company says the lightweight blanks have a progressive, deep loading flex fiberglass anglers love, that generates surprisingly fast line speed and power.

Capitalizing on the recent popularity of European nymphing styles, Cortland Line Company has created the MKII Nymph ($675) rod series—a 2- and 3-weight rod available in either 10- or 11-foot lengths. To be sure the new rods were up to snuff, Cortland was able to test them during the 2016 World Fly Fishing Championships in Vail, Colorado. Cortland also says it designed the tip section to be light and crisp, yet soft enough to protect light tippets, and the blank dampens quickly so anglers can sense more strikes. In tandem, Cortland also created a stick suited for lake fishing called the MKII Lake Series ($675).

For those that are shopping for a new rod and reel outfit, or those that simply like the idea of buying a line, rod, and reel already coupled together, consider Cabela’s Synch Combo ($150).

These packages replace the company’s popular RLS+ combo and include a high-modulus graphite rod, disc-drag reel, backing, fly line, and hard-sided case. It’s a quality option for a starter rod, or an affordable backup to keep in the boat or behind the truck seat.

REDINGTON WOMEN’S SONIC PRO WADERS / $300

REELS

After a tremendous response to the debut of the X reel series in 2015, Nautilus owner Kristen Mustad took a year off from designing anything new, and returned with the company’s newest design, the GTX ($1,300) for 2018. Voted best new saltwater reel at IFTD, Mustad says he engineered the 8.7 ounce GTX to compete with any terminal tackle reel and a backing capacity that can hold up to 500 yards of 60-pound test braid. The drag itself contains a pressure spring sandwiched between two aluminum discs that rotate in unison over an oversized carbon disc. The end result is up to 25 pounds of even pressure and the same low inertia startup Nautilus reels are known for.

Like the company’s approach to its new Zephrus Ultralite rod, Hardy engineered a new large arbor reel to be one of the lightest and strongest it has ever produced. The Ultralite MTX ($430 to $500) reel is machined, has a 340 degree adjustable drag knob and carbon fiber drag system, and what Hardy says is its first reel to feature a hybrid carbon fiber and alloy to create a strong, albeit lightweight, frame.

To compliment its new, inexpensive Streamlight II rod, L.L. Bean created the Streamlight Ultra II ($100 to $120) large arbor reel. The new design has an upgraded carbon fiber drag system with low startup inertia, a machined aluminum frame that’s lightweight but strong, a spool design that minimizes line WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

SIMMS G3 GUIDE STOCKINGFOOT WADER / $500

PATAGONIA MIDDLE FORK PACK WADER / $250

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 33

KORKERS WRAPTR / $200

ORVIS ULTRALIGHT WADING BOOT / $170

SIMMS G3 GUIDE BOOT / $230

34 I AMERICAN ANGLER

memory, and an anodized finish to prevent corrosion.

Another classic fly fishing name that’s recently made a strong resurgence in the market is Colorado’s very own Ross Reels.

After winning the IFTD best freshwater reel award in 2016, they continued to refine and reinvent their products for 2018. The Evolution R Salt ($595 to $795) is a lightweight, large arbor reel with a stainless steel and polymer drag system that produces up to 30 pounds of drag, and a bell-shaped arbor to help line self level on retrieve. The key feature, however, is the large, starshaped drag knob that easy for big, fish-slimed or wet hands to adjust. Another new Ross addition, the Evolution LTX ($385) follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the LT. It includes all the features of the LT (like its famous sound), but incorporates the technology Ross’s R series.

One of the most unique approaches to reel (and rod) design at the 2017 IFTD show was the Center Axis ($750 to $800) rod and reel package from venerated reel maker Waterworks Lamson. Since the mass of a fly reel doesn’t sit on the same casting axis as a fly rod, casters can feel some awkward, disjointed sensations during a cast. To combat these pendulum-type forces, the company integrated its new Center Axis reel ($350 to $375) into a rod butt so it aligns more with the rod blank, handle, your hand, and your arm during a cast. Lamson is upfront and says their idea is not a groundbreaking, fresh notion, but they have been able to put more thought, time, and research into the idea than any other manufacturer before, and combined with the company’s success and advancements in reel design, they were positioned to dial in on the concept better than previous attempts. That said, this past year the company also continued to focus on its bread-and-butter and also unveiled the Cobalt ($570 to $800). Available in just 6-, 8-, 10-, and 12-weight models, Lamson is marketing it as their “big game powerhouse.”

In 2016, Abel unveiled their SDS (sealed drag saltwater) reel at IFTD and it won the award for best new saltwater reel. This year, Abel adapted some of the same machining, components, and technology of the SDS to a freshwater version of the same reel called the SDF ($420 to $800). This reel has a large arbor, large drag adjustment knob, and a drag range that’s larger than most reels so you can make minor adjustments to protect fine tippets. Abel’s new design impressed so many the company was able to win again in 2017, this time in the best new freshwater reel category.

Rather than create one reel model in various sizes, Sage has created a reel “family” of three different models, each tailored for a specific application. The Spectrum ($250 to $300) is the base baseline reel in sizes 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, and 9/10. The Spectrum LT ($350 to $400) has a slightly more rigid construction and is intended for light two-handed applications. The Spectrum Max ($450 to $500) is the big-game workhorse of the group. All models have Sage’s popular one revolution drag adjustment knob and its SCS drag system.

Many anglers love the personal touch—colors, engravings, anodized artwork—reel makers can apply to spools and hous housings these days, but often balk at the price tag. As an inexpensive (but still brute tough) alternative, Redington created the I.D ($90 to $100). This die-cast design looks similar to Redington’s WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

popular Behemoth reel, and is available in sizes 3/4, 5/6, and 7/9. But the eye-catcher is the flat surface around the drag knob where you can adhere any number of pre-designed stickers ($5 each), though Redington is working on a setup where customers can design and order their own. If you need a creative gift or something memorable to commemorate a birthday, wedding, or graduation, this could be it.

WA D ERS AND APPAREL

When it comes to wading, Simms and the company’s “wader makers” continue to push themselves to make some of the best waders possible. The latest and greatest is a revamped G3 Guide Stockingfoot Wader ($500). Using an updated Gore-Tex fabric and new design, this wader has a different look and feel than its predecessor. Additionally, Simms added a 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell fabric in the upper portion, and a 4-layer in the seat and legs. There’s also a removable inside pocket and zippered reach-through micro-fleece lined hand warmer chest pocket.

But Simms didn’t stop there. The company also reworked the G3 Guide Boot ($230) for an improved fit, and with additional scratch rubber, to enhance its durability.

Using some of its top-tier features incorporated into some of its other waders, and relying on testing and feedback from female anglers, Redington created the Women’s Sonic-Pro Waders ($300) for 2018. Each pair has waterproof stretch fabric side panels, a stretch mesh back to fit all body types, sonic-welded seams, ergonomic neoprene booties, fleece-lined hand pockets, and a slim wading belt.

The other wader receiving lots of attention at IFTD was Patagonia’s Middle Fork Packable Waders ($250). Like the old saying, “you have to see it to believe it,” these versatile waders are thin and light (for hot weather), they’re made a polyester microfiber that’s tough as nails. But the real attraction is each pair can compress down into a small sack, which takes up little real estate—ideal for traveling anglers. They also feature articulated knees, anatomically correct left and right booties, adjustable straps and belt, and flat panel gravel guards that drain water fast.

To compliment its Ultralight Wading Jacket ($249) and Ultralight Waders ($300), Orvis also created the Ultralight Wading Boot ($170) which are light (44 ounces) and comfortable, though the company points out, that doesn’t mean they sacrificed when it came to durability. The upper is a quick-drying Clarino microfiber, which has a high strength-to-weight ratio than traditional leather. The boots also have a Vibram midsole, ripstop mesh inserts, and an abrasion resistant rubber spray on the outside for additional protection without increased weight, and a Vibram outsole that accepts stud inserts.

Another boot that was turning heads came from one of the most recognizable wading boot makers in the business—Korkers. Adding to their array of interchangeable-sole footwear, they created the Wraptr ($200) using a new method of boot construction the company says makes the boots last longer and fail less often. The construction process uses what they call a single piece, single seam, compression molded upper that eliminates stitch points (that are prone to undo over time). The hope is that by essentially making the boot from fewer components, there’s WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

12WT. SEVEN MILE SHIRT / $80

HOOK & FLY SHIRT / $85 HOOK & FLY PANTS / $80

HODGMAN CORE INS JACKET / $130 (ABOVE) HODGMAN H5 STORM SUIT JACKET / $300 (LEFT) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 35

SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS AMPLITUDE ANADRO / $130

HARDY TROPICAL FLATS / $80

CORTLAND FO-TECH / $130

RIO DIRECTCORE FLATS PRO / $120

36 I AMERICAN ANGLER

fewer places the boot can fail, and the longer an angler can go before needing a new pair.

A few years ago, 12wt. caught the attention of anglers worldwide with their simple, yet functional, designs. Recently, the company added a few more designs to their catalog. The 7 Mile Button Down shirt ($80) and Torchwood Button Down Shirt ($80) were both designed to have the clean lines of dress shirt, but are made of lightweight polyester and have a 30 UPF sun protection rating, so their equally useful on the water or on the town. Both shirts are wrinkle resistant, have a squared hem so you can wear it either tucked or untucked, have back and shoulder ventilation, and high button-down collars for sun and wind protection.

Another relative newcomer making a mark with something different is Hook & Fly. Of particular note is their base layers made of a blend of bamboo and merino wool. The H&F Wool Mock Top ($85) and H&F Wool base Layer ($80) are lightweight flexbut warm and designed for unrestrained movement and flex ibility on the water during those cold months of the year. What’s more, bamboo and merino have natural wicking qualities to micro-microbihelp you stay dry, and bamboo alone is naturally micro-microbi al to prevent odor-producing bacteria.

A few years ago, new owners breathed fresh life into Hodgman, a wader and apparel maker with deep roots in the sport man of fly fishing. This year the company continued its growth by adding waterproof and insulated jacket and bib options. The H5 Storm Jacket ($300) and H5 Storm Suit Bib ($300) are made from the company’s VTech three-layer breathable fabric, have Cordura seats and sleeves, and Aqua Guard zippers. But what makes this lineup unique is it pairs with Hodgman’s Core INS Jacket ($130) and Core INS Bibs ($130) for added warmth. It’s a great option if you’re fishing plans involve cold, wet environments and standing in a boat for any length of time.

FLY LINES AND ACCESSORIES

The last few years, Scientific Anglers (SA) has spent a considerable amount of time and energy focusing on streamlining its past line offerings, and developing new line families with specific applications. The Amplitude series, introduced in 2016, was one incredibly successful result of that effort—so much so, they’re adding five more lines to the assortment in 2018. The Trout ($130) and Anadro ($130) tapers are for freshwater, the Bone Bonefish ($130) and Tarpon ($130) have tapers specifically geared to pursue those game fish, and the Big Water Taper ($130) has a 100-pound test core for “larger than average” saltwater quarry.

Like other Amplitude lines, all five new tapers feature SA’s AST Plus slickness additive they claim is 50 percent slicker than any anything else ever made. Outside the Amplitude roster, SA also cre created two other noteworthy lines with specific applications—the Deliverance Spey ($145) and the SONAR Stillwater series ($90).

RIO said it spent an inordinate amount of time testing, and retesting, its new DirectCore Flats Pro ($120) line for bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The key feature is the line’s low-stretch monofilament core, refined taper, and new weight distribution they say makes it easier to make delicate presentations to spooky fish like permit. IFTD spectators liked what they saw and voted WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

it best saltwater fly line. The company’s InTouch Single Handed Spey 3D ($100) capitalizes on the success of the original line, but now includes a float/hover/intermediate option in 3- through 8-weight sizes. The triple density coating ensures flies stay down, without impeding complex mends or sacrificing line control.

Like RIO, Hardy also spent some time the past year focusing on fly lines with specific applications. One fruit of that labor is their new Tropical Flats ($80) line the company says it created to combat high winds and extreme heat, and deliver big flies with accuracy and control, especially in the 20- to 60-foot range.

Built over a solid, tropical core, the two-toned color coating has a welded tip loop and laser printed ID for quick reference.

In addition to creating new rods, the Cortland Line Company worked with legendary angler Flip Pallot on a new saltwater line called the High Vis Flip ($80). Together, Flip and Cortland made this line to be highly visible and excel at both long and short range casts by building it around a short taper that lets the line load the rod with relative ease. Moreover, the company says it intentionally didn’t design it with a specific game fish in mind.

Rather it’s intended to suit a variety of purposes. In addition, Cortland created a specialty line, the FO-TECH ($130), as a long (130 feet) floating line with an aggressive, 43-foot long taper, ideally suited for fishing from a boat.

It’s no secret Umpqua Feather Merchants produces some of the most innovative, durable patterns on the market, and lately, they’ve extended their market reach and are now producing some of the best storage options for safeguarding the most innovative, durable flies on the market. The UPG Fly Boxes are a series of waterproof, double-sided containers with clear covers (so you can see the flies inside without opening), rows of slit rubber that pinch and hold hooks, magnets to hold the tiniest hooks, or a combination of slit rubber and magnets.

The UPG Magnum Midge ($40) was one configuration that won over enough IFTD visitors to receive the award for best fly box/storage system.

To hold your new fly boxes and other gear in just about any environment possible, Fishpond created the Thunderhead Submersible Backpack ($300) out of its bombproof, recycled TPU coated nylon. The zippers are waterproof and the harness system is both sturdy and comfortable. Ideal for protecting phones, cameras, or anything else from whatever Mother Nature throws your way. For storing, protecting, or transporting (much) larger items than flies, Fishpond also created the Grand Teton Rolling Luggage ($400), which coincidentally won the IFTD award for best luggage.

Though it’s not a brand name that gets thrown around fly fishing circles much, you can likely find some model of a Gerber multitool in any angler’s pack or vehicle. Recently, the company has made a push to make more devices with fishing-specific applications. The Linedriver ($40) is one of those items. One end of this compact device can help tie knots and clear hook eyes, and the reverse end has a line crimper, hook threader, small scissors to cut line, and a pocket clip and tether will help you keep the tool out of the drink.

UMPQUA UPG MAGNUM MIDGE FLY BOX / $40

GERBER LINEDRIVER / $40

FISHPOND THUNDERHEAD BACKPACK / $300

Ben Romans is the editor of American Angler.

WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 37

Great Barracuda

These fearsome-looking saltwater predators are also fantastic game fish that will often take anglers deep into their backing and leap many times during the fight.

T

he great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) isn’t generally considered one of the premier saltwater fly rod species—it’s not part of the flats Grand Slam, for instance—and few fly fishers head to the tropics to specifically chase this toothy beast.

But when you spot a silvery torpedo lying in ambush in a deep slot, or tucked into the mangroves, it’s time to pick up a rod rigged with a wire leader and a baitfish pattern. Great barracuda can be maddeningly sullen and wary and often won’t even react to your offering or just slowly swim away. But at other times they will attack a fly with reckless abandon and at great speed.

And that’s when the fun really starts because barracuda fight like they mean it.

Defined lateral line

Blue-gray along the back, with silvery sides

Large eyes and mouth

= =

=

=

=

= Two rows of sharp teeth Lower jaw extends beyond upper jaw

White belly

Flies and Tactics

SANDY HAYES

The IGFA all-tackle record barracuda was caught at Christmas Island in 2012 and weighed in at 87 pounds, 3 ounces, but most fish targeted by fly fishers on the flats are considerably smaller. Rods from 9-weight through 12-weight will give you enough leverage to battle big fish, and of course you’ll need a wire leader. The key to a good retrieve is speed: the faster, the better.

Barracuda feed almost exclusively on other fish, so long, slim baitfish patterns are your best choices. Because of their strong jaws and teeth, the fish will bend light hooks and shred poorly constructed flies. So make sure that your hooks are strong, the points are razor sharp, and use patterns that incorporate a stinger hook whenever possible. You don’t need to worry about matching the hatch, but carry a variety of colors, such as chartreuse, black, red-over-white, and pearl.

38 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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BILL TIPTON

Dangers to Humans

Because of the barracuda’s impressive dentition and vaguely shark-like profile, many people believe that the species is dangerous to humans, and stories of barracuda attacking swimmers or divers are quite common. One often hears that the fish will attack if a swimmer or diver is wearing flashy jewelry, which supposedly imitates a baitfish. The fact is that there have been only about 25 documented attacks by barracuda in the past century, and the majority of these involve divers who are spearfishing or people who intentionally invade the fish’s personal space.

Oftentimes, a barracuda tries to steal a spearfisher’s fish, and a battle ensues, during which time the human receives some lacerations. Anglers, snorkelers, and swimmers really have nothing to fear. Watch your fingers while removing a fly, though.

Torpedo-shaped body

= =

Black spots on lower half of the body

Eat at Your Own Risk

Although your chances of being attacked by a barracuda are practically nil, the species does cause harm to thousands of humans around the world every year— by poisoning them. The barracuda is at the top of the CDC’s list of predatory fish that should not be consumed because of the risk of ciguatera, a food-borne illness caused by eating reef fish. Ciguatoxins are created by algae, which are then consumed by small fish, which are, in turn, eaten by larger fish. Barracuda are apex predators on the reef, and the toxins become concentrated in their flesh and viscera through a process called biomagnification. Although ciguatera is rarely fatal, it can cause gastrointestinal and neurological problems. The symptoms can last for weeks or even years. If you do plan to eat a barracuda, smaller fish are less dangerous, and you should stick to eating just the meat.

Range and Species History DEPENDING ON YOUR SOURCE, THERE

are between 20 and 28 species of barracuda worldwide, and the great barracuda is the most common. Great barracuda are found virtually around the globe in near-shore tropical and subtropical seas, especially where there are reefs and sea grasses. In the Western Hemisphere, the species range from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, and it is also widespread in the Eastern Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and throughout Micronesia.

However, the great barracuda is rare or nonexistent along the west coast of the U.S. and in the far-eastern Pacific, although other barracuda species do swim in those waters.

Great barracuda sometimes inhabit open ocean and water up to 100 feet deep, but they are most often found around structures—reefs, mangroves, shipwrecks, and the like—in shallow water, less than 50 feet deep. Not much is known about the species’ spawning habits, but mating most likely occurs offshore. Juvenile fish hide in estuaries, mangroves, and sea grasses, which offer protection from predators and abundant prey. After two years, the young fish head for deeper water. They can live up to 14 years and grow to remarkable proportions; the largest specimens are more than 6 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds.

Great barracuda are solitary fish, but they will school up to chase prey into a bait ball. When they are alone, they rely on surprise, speed, and their impressive teeth to capture prey. The barracuda lies in wait, barely even moving its fins, until an unsuspecting baitfish swims into the predator’s attack window. Although they are not particularly maneuverable and attack in a straight line, great barracuda are capable of short bursts up to 35 miles per hour. Two rows of teeth—a row of smaller, razor-sharp cutting teeth on the outside and a row of dagger-like piercing teeth inside—mean the prey has little chance once in the barracuda’s jaws. Smaller fish are swallowed whole, while larger fish are chewed into pieces and then devoured.

Web sites: tinyurl.com/aacuda1 tinyurl.com/aacuda2 tinyurl.com/aacuda3

FISH ILLUSTRATION BY DIANE ROME PEEBLES

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 39

BARRY & CATHY BECK

THE

Prince Family Tree Since its inception, tiers have tweaked, manipulated, and reworked this classic nymph into dozens of unique patterns.

BY K E N M C C OY

My dad’s fly box is chock-full of the classics like Hare’s Ear Nymphs, Royal Coachmans, mosquitoes, red quills, Elk Hair Caddis, and so on. Conversely, my fly box has a number of variations of his originals—flies like the Para X, WMD Pupa, hot-head soft hackle sow bugs, and Disco Beetles. Maybe it’s a generational thing.

40 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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FLY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN ROMANS

Nonetheless, there is one classic that has taken a number of different twists and turns throughout the years—the Prince Nymph.

Using the basic design and look of a Prince, different tiers from around the world have added their own twists over the years, with great effect. The great thing is you can change the tail, the body color, the shape of the hook, or even the size, shape, and shine of a bead and be fairly confident it will catch fish. Just about any variation will work well and have a role on the river. But like my dad, I tend to go back to the original.

The Prince Nymph’s roots go back to the 1930s and the pattern as we know it today was named after the fly’s creator, Doug Prince.

However, the great-grandfather of the Prince was a pattern tied by brothers Don and Dick Olson that they called the Brown Forked-Tail Nymph. And while the Olson’s fly looks similar to most modern renditions, they attached the white biot wings so they curved up and away from the fly, versus down over the body, as it’s tied today. Both patterns are mainly used to imitate stoneflies, though Prince’s version is so effective year round, many anglers fish the nymph as a general attractor pattern, especially as a dropper beneath a buoyant fly like a hopper.

Over the years, tiers have recreated the Prince with somewhat foreseeable variations— like using a lead-wire underbody or a bead head for depth. Possibly my favorite deviated pattern is the Nymph Formerly Known As Prince. For the most part, you tie the pattern exactly like its predecessor. The alteration comes only at the last step. Instead of tying on traditional white turkey biot wings, they’re replaced by slivers of silver flash, giving the fly a highly-visible “sparkle” that is perfect for high, fast-moving, murky water. I discovered this pattern while fishing Colorado’s Vail Valley during spring runoff, and now I fish it regularly, often trailing behind a sow bug pattern.

Noted tier Rick Takahashi creates some beautiful flies, and one of my favorites is his Go 2 Prince Nymph. This pattern was born out of necessity after Takahashi sustained a neck injury that left his fingers without feeling. He found it much too difficult to feel the position of the biots as he was tying them on. It’s easier to tie than the original because it eliminates both the forked-tail and turkey biot wings (both of which I consider to be the most difficult materials to tie on to the original pattern, even with fully functional fingers). Instead, Takahashi uses Whiting Farms midge saddle hackle for the tail and white poly yarn for the

BROWN FORKED-TAIL NYMPH HOOK: Tiemco 300, sizes 6 to 12.

THREAD: Black 6/0 Danville.

WEIGHT: Non-toxic .025-inch wire.

TAIL: Black goose biots.

RIB: Extra fine silver wire.

BODY: Black ostrich herl.

WING: White goose biots.

COLLAR: Black hen neck hackle.

GO 2 PRINCE

HOOK: Tiemco 9300, sizes 8 to 16.

THREAD: 8/0 Uni-Thread.

WEIGHT: Gold bead, size to match hook.

TAIL: Brown hen hackle fibers.

BODY: Peacock herl.

RIB: Pearl Krystal Flash.

HACKLE: Brown midge sized hackle.

WING: White poly yarn.

COLLAR: Peacock Ice Dub. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 41

RAINY’S MULBERRY PRINCE

HOOK: Daiichi 1530, sizes 6 to 10.

THREAD: Black 6/0.

WEIGHT: Gold bead.

TAIL: Two brown goose biots.

BODY: Blue, purple, and red spun deer hair trimmed to shape.

WING: Two white goose biots.

COLLAR: Brown hackle.

DALE’S CROWN PRINCE OF FLASH HOOK: Daiichi 1550, sizes 12 to 16.

THREAD: Black 6/0.

WEIGHT: Gold bead.

TAIL: Two olive goose biots and Krystal Flash.

RIB: Red wire.

BODY: Peacock herl.

WING: Pearl Flashabou.

LEGS: Small white rubber legs.

COLLAR: Brown hackle.

42 I AMERICAN ANGLER

wings. It’s a quick and forgiving pattern to tie and has proven to be an extremely effective substitute for the original.

“I first tested this pattern on the Cache la Poudre above Fort Collins, Colorado,” recalls Takahashi. “I caught five fish on my first five casts that day. My first thought was, ‘I’m not that good of a fisherman!’” Just as tiers have added their own flare to the original Prince Nymph, tiers have reimagined Takahashi’s variation a number of times, and my favorite, which I like to fish in the late spring and early fall with a trailing midge emerger, has an orange hot head.

“The pattern is extremely versatile and wasn’t designed to imitate anything specific,” Takahashi explains. “It’s meant as an attractor pattern and man does it catch fish.”

Another fly tier that’s leaving an indelible mark on the sport is Mike Mercer. He’s credited with dozens of pioneering, unique patterns, but he has also improved numerous classics throughout his career. Whether you know it or not, you’ve probably fished with one of Mercer’s patterns on more than one occasion. His take on the classic Prince is a pattern called the Psycho Prince and it’s a variation built around color and flash. Bright purples, hot pinks, neon greens, and other “loud” colors are common themes with the Psycho Prince, as is the wing tuft that adds an extra layer of “psychotic-ness.” The Psycho is an excellent prospecting pattern when fishing for everything from brook trout to steelhead.

Rainy’s Premium Flies out of Logan, Utah (www.rainysflies.com) sells Gilbert Rowley’s Black Jack. The Black Jack is a streamlined, no nonsense Prince Nymph variation that leaves out the herl and dubbing in favor of bright, contrasting threads and a glossy, cement finish.

Rowley coats the body with Sally Hansen Hard as Nails just before tying on the white biot wings. This step gives the fly added durability and a glossy sheen. The Black Jack fishes well in both stained or clear water.

Some say imitation is the highest form of flattery. Others say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The Prince Nymph and his direct descendants are proof that truth exists in both adages. Whether you add a tungsten bead, a copper one, a soft hackle collar, or you tie it on a straight hook or curved, the Prince is a classic that should have a place in your fly box year round, but of course, leave room for some of its offspring.

Ken McCoy is a freelance writer, technologist, and part-time guide. He likes night vision goggles and doing karate in the garage.

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ALISON’S PURPLE WILD THING

BLACK JACK

MALDONADO’S CASINO ROYALE

PSYCHO PRINCE

HOOK: Daiichi 1130, sizes 12 to 16.

THREAD: Black 6/0.

WEIGHT: Gold bead.

TAIL: Brown Z-Lon. BODY: Purple floss.

RIB: Silver wire.

THORAX: Purple Ice Dub. WING: Dun CDC under two white goose biots.

LEGS: Purple Krystal Flash.

HOOK: Daiichi 1270, sizes 6 to 8.

THREAD: Black 6/0.

WEIGHT: Black nickel bead.

TAIL: Two ginger goose biots.

BODY: Peacock herl bisected by a few turns of red wire.

UNDERWING: Two white goose biots.

WING: Two white goose biots.

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HOOK: Tiemco 2475, sizes 12 to 16.

BEAD: Black nickel tungsten, size to match hook.

WEIGHT: .025-inch non-toxic wire.

THREAD: Black 140 denier UTC. TAIL: Black goose biots.

RIB: Fluorescent pink/chartreuse 140 denier UTC thread.

FINISH: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails.

WING: White goose biots.

COLLAR: Fluorescent pink/chartreuse (match rib) 70 denier UTC thread.

HOOK: Tiemco 3769, sizes 12 to 18.

THREAD: Tan 70 denier UTC. TAIL: Brown goose biots.

RIB: Small copper wire.

SHELLBACK: Pheasant tail.

BODY: Purple STS Trilobal Dubbing.

WING CASE: Chartreuse DNA Holo Fusion.

COLLAR: Brown Ice Dub dubbing.

LEGS: Yellow goose biots.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 43

Playiing

POOL No river pools are exactly alike, but with a systematic approach, you can get more fish out of all of them.

BY JASON RANDALL

44 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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VAL ATKINSON

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 45

I find Bergman’s descriptions still relative and helpful today, and I agree with him that pools remain one of the most challenging parts of a stream to fish. A systematic strategy pays big dividends, however, especially if you’re willing to change or adapt as you go.

But before you dive in, it helps to categorize pools by type— those found in high gradient (a steep pitch) mountain streams that flow over hard terrain are much different from those found in more alluvial (a valley floor with less gradient) sections of rivers flowing over a softer, more easily eroded substrate. Trout choose different feeding lies in different pool types and you’ll also need to fish them a bit differently by using multiple tactics to get the most out of them.

Riffle-Run-Pool Streams Stream biologists use the terms “depositional habitat” to describe pools as opposed to “erosional habitats” like riffles and runs, but you can take it a step further in pools formed behind riffles and runs because they generally have a simple, three-part structure comprised of a head, body, and tailout. In an erosional habitat, the fast water scours sediment from the streambed and leaves behind coarse rubble too large to lift into the current, thereby creating the rocky, hard-bottomed streambed in a riffle. Carried through the riffle or run in the fast-flowing water, the sediment and fine gravel settle out in the pool as the water slows, giving it a softer bottom.

While pools vary from as small as a bathtub to as big as a pond, those formed in high-mountain streams often trend to the smaller size. Also called riffle-run-pool streams, high mountain waterways follow a repeating pattern of riffle-runs that drain into pools. The water gains momentum in fast water riffles or runs, eventually scouring out a deep depression in the streambed that forms the pool, temporarily exhausting its energy in the process. At the end of the pool the water begins to accelerate 46 I AMERICAN ANGLER

again, gaining sufficient energy to form another riffle, thus the process begins again shortly downstream.

The current not only lifts sediment to carry it through the erosive riffle-run, it also lifts food in the form of invertebrate organisms from the substrate.

Food particles, carried through the fast water, settle out of the current in a pool’s head as the water slows, often ending up in the mouths of waiting trout. For this reason, I love to fish the head of mountain pools. Wherever you find a transitional zone between erosional and depositional habitats, especially one marked by a dramatic change in depth and current speed, you’ll find trout.

The change in speed means food settles out of the current, and the change in depth means trout feast in lies protected from the current—behind the drop off—while the tongue of flow overhead drops food right on their plate.

Anglers can imitate this sequence with nymphing techniques, but the same layer of fast water that serves as a conveyor belt of trout food also presents a challenge—your flies must pierce the layer of fast water to effectively target the trout beneath it. Tight line nymphing not only allows you to pierce the faster currents to keep your flies near the bottom, but by constantly adjusting the height of your rod tip through the drift, you can follow the contours of the streambed and stay in contact with your flies as the depth changes. From a position just below the pool’s head, cast your team of nymphs into the fast water just above the transitional zone (shallow to deep). Pause a brief moment to let it all sink before lifting your rod to regain contact, which is an important aspect of tight line nymphing. Then track your flies downstream, or even lead them gently. As you pass WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

JO RANDALL

examined the structure of pools in his book, Trout, and described a detailed strategy to fish them. Complete with illustrations, he retold his experience of sitting on a bank, while several different anglers approached and fished the pool, his concealed position overlooked. He observed each, noting their tactics and success. One particular angler fared better than the others because of his systematic approach— particularly in the way he identified the most likely trout lies.

After picking these targets, he then took an angling position offering the best opportunity for a successful presentation.

He even changed methods according to the different zones of the pool—fishing differently at the head, say, as opposed to the tailout of a pool.

PATRICK CLAYTON/ENGBRETSON UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY

Nearly 82 years ago, Ray Bergman

The churning effect at the head of a pool where water pours off a higher gradient riffle helps cool temperatures and infuses fresh oxygen into the system (left) which is why fish are so fond of lies just downstream (top). Position yourself as close to the head of the pool as possible, cast into the riffle as it enters the pool, and let your flies drift through it to give the appearance of dislodged food haplessly drifting downstream (right).

BARRY & CATHY BECK

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 47

dropping it to settle back on the bottom. Remember, sculpins lack the air sac/swim bladder of trout and most other fish species, so once one stops actively swimming, it plummets. With an effective presentation, you might just hook into a large trout using the pool as a home site and a place to find an easy meal.

The tail of the pool is a transitional area where water begins to accelerate into the next stretch of fast water. Like a funnel, pool tails concentrate food both vertically and horizontally as the stream runs shallow and its width constricts everything into the following riffle.

Standing above the bottom of a pool, try swinging wet flies or soft hackles through this transitional zone, twitching and pulsing them across the accelerating current. Or use small minnow-imitating streamers like a dace or other small prey fish species. Stripped in short bursts or under rapid rod pulses, this mimics a small prey fish trying to avoid being swept out of the pool as the current quickens.

Alluvial Pools Alluvial pools usually form along the outer bank of river bends through the process of erosion. Just like race cars that hug the high outer wall around turns to find the fastest path, the fastest current courses along the outer bank around river bends, which erodes a deeper channel along the bottom and against the far bank. Over time, the outer bank widens, eventually forming a deep pool, which initially traps slack water and foam. The process of erosion takes considerable time and pools show various levels of “maturity” depending on how far along it is in its development. As the pool matures, it encompasses reverse currents and even slow-turning whirlpools. Meanwhile, through the same erosive process, a gravel bar gradually forms along the inner bank in the last third of the river bend.

Alluvial pools lack the consistent structure of high mountain pools, making them a bit more challenging to fish. But take a moment before you begin to pick out the transitional areas and identify a trout’s best feeding lies. Then choose the best fishing method for each area and the best positions to do it from.

You can systematically fish a pool by starting near the head, where water flows shallow to deep (left position 1), by using fast-sinking nymphs.

Track, or lead, the flies through the upper half of the pool, dropping your rod tip as you go to help reach fish on the bottom. At the tailout (left position 2), try swinging wet flies or streamers as the current constricts the flow of food. Fish the main flow of alluvial pools from the side (right position 1) or from behind the eddy (right position 2), before fishing the backwash, which is likely where most fish will hold (right position 3).

THOMAS BARNETT

48 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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BARRY & CATHY BECK

through the transitional zone, lower your rod as the water deepens to keep your flies in the strike zone near the bottom. Fish the entire width of the fast-water chuting through, but give extra attention to the lateral seams where flows slow, as these often offer prime lies to hungry trout. If possible, avoid floating strike indicators that suspend nymphs at a preset depth and prohibits the unrestricted liberty to keep flies near the bottom as depths change. Rather than targeting fish in deep feeding lies, the flies are trapped in the fast water that shoots over their heads.

Dry flies also work well where fast flows drain into a pool.

Drift your dry flies through the “fast lane” into the tailout as the water slows and deepens. Chose buoyant patterns that don’t sink in choppy water and high-stick your drift if need be to avoid the drag you’d otherwise get as your line crosses competing current zones. Be ready for strikes as the current slows. Hit the back eddies that often form to either side of the fast water. Following emergences and spinner falls, these backwash areas collect crippled emerges, drowned duns or sub-adults, and spent spinners. The trout will likely feed at a leisurely pace, so you’ll have to mend attentively to get a drag-free drift among all the various current reversals common in eddies. Pick a high rod position to elevate the line and reach over the far current seam and into the eddy beyond.

The body of a pool presents challenges to anglers when it comes to reading water and identifying individual feeding lies. In the absence of well defined feeding lanes in slow moving water, trout relate more to structure. Large trout cruise back and forth looking for vulnerable prey on the move. In the body of the pool, bottom feeders like sculpins take advantage of the plethora of food along the substrate—the same invertebrates trout eat.

Beginning from the same position you used to nymph fish at the head of a pool, work down through the body of the pool swinging and stripping a weighted sculpin streamer. Cast it across the pool and let it settle to the bottom, or even rest for a moment.

Then lift the rod and pulse it gently like a natural fish swimming up in the water column to change its feeding location before

When fishing the wide, slow-moving, body of a pool, use short-line techniques whenever possible. If the size of the pool prevents that, try fishing nymphs on a long leader with a small strike indicator, or slowly strip something like a weighted sculpin across the bottom.

The features of alluvial pools are not as consistent as highaltitude, hard-bottomed streams, and vary most based on the maturity of the pool. In mature pools, the whirlpool along the outer bank and the gravel bar along the inner bank compress the feeding lane into a narrow corridor, creating excellent feeding lies along either edge or the bottom. Immature pools have less dramatic transitional zones than those that are more mature, but in general, look for the best transition zones along the face and back edge of the gravel bar and also between the fast water and the slack or reversing water along the outer bank.

To fish alluvial pools, you can reach the main feeding lane and transition zones from a wading position on the shallow gravel or sand bar along the inner bank, or by reaching over the back eddy part of the pool from a position standing on the outer bank. From your position on the gravel bar, tight line nymphing should work well, casting upstream into the fast flow. Standing on the outer bank, tight line techniques may or may not work, depending on how far you have to reach to get over the eddy.

Because of the distance to the feeding lane, you may need a floating indicator to effectively nymph fish it. Even with an indicator, you’ll probably need to keep the fly line from contacting the slack or reversing water of the main pool.

The backwash of the pool collects foam and other floating debris, including insects after emergences and spinner falls. With an upstream or downstream presentation, drift a dry fly through the fast flow and let it eddy out into the pool—into the slack or reversing flow.

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You might just find a trout still feeding long after an insect event— possibly a fish sipping on spent spinners or crippled emergers.

From the outer bank at the head of the pool, you can also dead drift a Woolly Bugger or streamer down the lane of fast flowing water and then twitch it through the seam into the slow moving water of the pool. This imitates a fish caught and carried in the current that’s swimming into the slack water. Wet flies or even soft hackles fished in the same manner can be equally effective. Don’t forget to try your Woolly Bugger or streamer along the backside of the gravel bar before you call it quits. The back edge of bars serve as staging areas for subordinate trout; those too low in the pecking order to command good feeding lies are forced to wait in staging areas until one opens up. Large trout frequently maraud these edges looking for an easy meal.

No matter which type of pools you fish in the course of your day, a moment’s consideration will tell you not only where to fish, but also how to fish each of them. While I admire Bergman, I don’t have the discipline to spend an afternoon studying a pool from the shore. After only a few minutes, I fall prey to the siren song of the pool and the trout that lurk in its waters. In other words, I’m like any other angler—I pick up the rod and fish.

Jason Randall is a frequent contributor to American Angler and the author of the Fly Fisher’s Guide trilogy. His fourth book, Nymph Masters; Fly Fishing Secrets from Expert Anglers was released from Stackpole/Headwaters Books in April 2017.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 49

Golden State

Tailwaters Year-round opportunities for trout, salmon, and steelhead await in California’s Central Valley.

Article & Photography by Greg Vinci

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Y

ears ago, I pretty much confined

my fishing to the summer months in California’s Sierras, though after the mountain streams became too warm and thin in August, I spent a considerable amount of time fishing for “half pounder” steelhead in the American River near my home in Sacramento. For me, it was only a pastime to fill in the cracks between the mountain trout season and the beginning of waterfowl season. Little did I know I was overlooking year-round fishing opportunities courtesy of the state’s Central Valley tailwaters.

After World War II, California dammed almost every river that descended the west slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to divert water to the state’s agriculture efforts and growing cities. Unfortunately, the dams blocked steelhead and salmon from reaching their traditional spawning grounds. Managers attempted to mitigate the loss with hatchery-reared fish, and the state successfully maintained salmon populations, but experienced less success cultivating indigenous steelhead populations. In some cases, managers resorted to importing stock from other watersheds to keep things going.

Regardless of the problems dams created, the flip side of the coin was the reservoirs provided a reliable flow of cool water, particularly in the fall when some rivers, historically, almost dried up. It also facilitated a much earlier salmon run on the American, Feather, Yuba, Mokelumne, and San Joaquin rivers. The Sacramento River on the other hand, could now maintain high enough flows year round to actually host spring and summer runs of fish, whereas in the past, runs didn’t start until the heavy rains of November arrived.

In addition to the indigenous salmon and steelhead,

the valley tailwaters were stocked with striped bass and Ameri American shad in the early 20th Century. Populations of both species now provide angling opportunities during the warm months when steelhead and salmon have left the system.

If you’ve never fished any of the California’s tailwaters, or have always been curious about squirreling away to wet a line during something like a family trip to the Golden State, here’s a quick overview of a few of the finest, and some insight on what you can expect to find.

Lower Sacramento River Referred to as the “Lower Sac” by northern Californians, the river begins in the Southern Cascades, flows into the Shasta Dam and then the Keswick Reservoir. From there, this tailwater remains relatively unimpeded until it enters San Francisco Bay some 200 miles to the south. While four years of drought caused the river’s water temperatures to increase, the section between Keswick Dam, just a few miles upstream from Redding and the city of Red Bluff some 30 miles to the south, remains one of the most productive trout fisheries in the United States. Below Red Bluff the water temperatures are warm and the trout fishery falls off, though in the winter you can find trout as far south as Colusa.

Unfortunately, because of the river’s high flow rate, wading isn’t the best way to approach it, so it’s best to float it yourself or hire a guide with a boat. The popular drift sections are between the Posse Grounds park in Redding to the South Bonnyview Fishing Access, which is a little over five river miles. Another popular float is from the Bonnyview access to Anderson River Park, which is about seven miles long.

Bug life is prolific on the Lower Sac, and it’s one reason why the river holds so many trout. The river’s consistent, cool flows are perfectly suited to sustain just about every popular mayfly, caddis, and stonefly hatch anglers can think of. But of particular Though the “Lower Sac” flows through a metropolitan area, there are still plenty of fish, and some interesting landmarks (left) anglers will encounter. The Lower Yuba on the other hand (middle), flows through a differnt landscape, and is famous for its aquatic bug life. The Lower American River (right) has seen its share of man-made influences, but it remains one of the most productive fisheries in California’s Central Valley.

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note, the early season caddis hatch is legendary, and one of the few times dry fly techniques trump anything else. Later in the season, stoneflies and various mayflies make an appearance.

Then in the fall, the “egg bite” begins after salmon are on redds, and it attracts anglers from all over the state.

There are plenty of lodging and food options available in the Redding/Anderson area, as well as one of the most famous fly fishing retailers, The Fly Shop (800-669-3474; www.theflyshop. com) is located right off Interstate 5. What’s great is the shop carries all the famous patterns designed by Lower Sac tiers like Mike Mercer, Tim Fox, and Andy Burk to name a few. The Lower Sac may be one of the most productive rivers in the country and since it flows through an urban area and parallels a major interstate, you owe it to yourself to spend some time plying its waters whether you’re living in or visiting California.

Lower Yuba River The Lower Yuba flows out of Englebright Lake in the Sierra foothills just east of Marysville and west of Grass Valley on state highway 20.

You can access the water from the highway 20 bridge and there is good fishing about a mile upstream and four miles downstream. With the exception of the parking area at the north end of the bridge, all access is from Hammonton Road, which parallels the south side of the river.

The road isn’t regularly maintained and can get a little rough at times, particularly in the winter, so it’s best to drive it in high clearance vehicles. I recommend you consult a map like the DeLorme California Atlas & Gazetteer before going. If you have access to a boat, the most efficient way to fish the countless riffles and eddies along the Yuba is to float from the highway bridge for about four miles to Sycamore Ranch —just drive carefully before dropping in as there isn’t an improved boat ramp and you have to navigate over large cobbles.

The Yuba is one of the only remaining tailwaters in the Central Valley with completely wild fish. Its rainbow trout have a reputation of being some of the hottest fish in the state, though the Yuba also hosts a decent run of steelhead in the winter and salmon in the fall. If you crave WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

more variety, shad and stripers are present in the lower stretches in the late spring.

If you take the time to seine the river bottom you’ll witness (depending on the time of year) a bouillabaisse of bugs crawling in every direction. Every aquatic bug one can think of is present in the Yuba, but the river is most famous for its Skwala stonefly hatch, which begins in late February and continues into early spring.

In years with exceptional hatches, there are so many apstoneflies covering the shoreline rocks it almost ap pears as though the ground is moving at your feet.

After the skwalas, March Browns are a significant early spring hatch, and caddis begin popping off the water in the afternoons. In the summer, afternoon breezes send a fair number of hoppers off the hills and into the water, and the fish love them. In the colder months, blue-winged olives are the predominate bugs and you’ll catch the most fish primarily by nymphing or swinging subsurface patterns.

The Lower Yuba is a great all around fishery that is only about an hour from Sacramento’s metropolitan area, though there’s also lodging in Marysville and Grass Valley. The Reel Anglers Fly Shop (530-477-5397; www.reelanglersflyshop.com) in nearby Grass Valley has a selection of local patterns that work well on the river. If you’d like to hire a guide, contact either Reel Anglers Fly Shop or Kiene’s American Fly Fishing Company (916-483-1222; www.kiene.com)

Lower American River If it wasn’t for the hand of man, the American River, which runs through Sacramento, wouldn’t be teeming with wild salmon until late fall after the first rains raise the levels enough so fish could migrate upstream to their spawning grounds in the Sierra foothills. After the salmon spawn there would have been little fishing op opportunity until spring when the indigenous steelhead would do the same. The other side of the coin is that if it wasn’t for the hand of man, the river wouldn’t

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 53

have the amazing steelhead, salmon, striped bass and American shad fishing it does today.

The construction of the Folsom and Nimbus Dams in the 1950s cut off salmon and steelhead from their traditional spawning areas in the Sierra foothills. Consequently today’s populations only exist thanks to artificial spawning at the Nimbus Hatchery. However, the dams provide a relatively consistent flow of water late in the summer and early fall when the river historically shriveled to a trickle, which in turn has fostered earlier salmon and steelhead runs. Though the construction of the dams pretty much ended the indigenous steelhead run, river managers replaced them with a trophysized steelhead strain they imported from California’s north coast rivers. In my opinion, the lower American River probably now has the most reliable run of 8- to 15-pound steelhead in the lower 48, though I’m sure there are some people that would argue that point.

The river cuts through the heart of Sacramento so access isn’t a problem. Several access points in particular have parking for $5 per day, though once you pay, you’re able to access any of the other parking areas from sunrise to sunset. Or you can buy an annual pass for $50 from

any of the manned payment kiosks or at Kiene’s American River Fly Shop in Sacramento. Visit www.california-flyfishing.com/ ar_parkway_map.htm for a map of the access points.

There are spawning runs of some species of game fish nearly every month of the year. Steelhead enter the river in December and prepare to spawn in February and March, and the upper river is closed from November 1 to December 31 to protect spawning fishersalmon. When it opens on January 1, there are plenty of fly fisher men at every riffle trying to catch them. The run peaks in February but lasts through March. In late April the American shad (locally known as poor man’s tarpon) begin to trickle into the river and runs peak around the end of May or early June, attracting large numbers of fishermen. At the same time, striped bass work up the river to spawn and feed on the shad. In late August and September, half-pounder steelhead arrive in the river. There aren’t a lot of fish, but for those who are willing to put in the time around riffles and side channels, these fish provide some great sport. In September, October, and November, Chinook salmon are present. Not to be left out, striped bass show up in the spring to spawn and also in the fall.

The Lower American is never boring. For help with flies or finding a guide, try Kiene’s American Fly Fishing Company (916483-1222; www.kiene.com) or Fly Fishing Specialties (916-722-1055; www.flyfishingspecialties.com).

Putah Creek Putah Creek is different from the aforementioned tailwaters, as it is a creek and not a river and it flows east out of the Coast Range and not west out of the Sierras like many of the others. In the late fall large rainbows migrate upstream from Lake Solano to spawn. Like the other Central Valley tailwaters, flows remain high in the summer to meet agricultural needs and then drop to wadeable levels in the fall. Since it’s close to urban areas, the creek can get crowded on weekends during its peak season between November and February.

If you happen to be visiting Sacramento, the Napa Valley, or the Bay Area in the fall and need a fish fix, Putah Creek may be your answer. It’s located about 60 minutes northeast of San Francisco or west of Sacramento. From the Bay Area, take Interstate 80 east, then north on Interstate 505 to Winters. Then travel west on state high highway 128 and you’ll see the creek on the left after a few miles. From Napa take highway 121 to highway 128 and proceed east past Lake Berryessa to the creek. From Sacramento take Interstate 80 to high highway 113 near the city of Davis and proceed north to West Covell Boulevard, turn west and proceed to Winters. There are several ac access points along the river and highway 128 runs parallel for nearly its entire length, though lock your vehicle and secure your valuables as there are some vehicle break-ins reported from time to time.

I might also mention there is some terrific lodging, great restaurants, and entertainment venues in the town of Winters. For guides, fishing reports, or help with fly selections, try Kiene’s American Fly Fishing Company (916-483-1222; www.kiene.com), Fly Fishing SweeSpecialties (916-722-1055; www.flyfishingspecialties.com), or Swee ney’s Sports (707-255-5544; www.sweeneyssports.com).

Lower Feather River The Lower Feather may be the most unique of all the tailwaters in northern California. The reason is because below its major 54 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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BILL TIPTON

impoundment, Oroville Dam, it literally splits into two rivers. Most of the flow diverts into the shallow Thermalito Afterbay to supply the many rice farms in the Central Valley with water, and about 500 to 1,000 cubic feet per second remains in the main channel. After about eight miles, the outlet of Thermalito Afterbay meets the main channel and the Feather River continues unimpeded until it merges with the Sacramento River. The great thing about the lower Feather River is flows remain fairly constant around 1,000 cubic feet per second year round, which combined with its low water temperature means the fishing is always good, even in the summer heat.

In October and November, steelhead appear in the river and follow the salmon so they can feed on all the extra eggs drifting downstream of spawning redds. The fish typically have generous proportions and look like footballs with tails and mouths at opposite ends. After the salmon finish spawning, steelhead remain in the river to spawn in January and February. After salmon leave the river, steelhead will still eat an egg pattern, but the fish also begin feeding on aquatic bugs like caddis, mayflies, and stonefly nymphs.

You can easily access the Lower Feather portion between the fish hatchery and highway 70 from downtown Oroville.

Park on the levee and follow the trail along the river. For a mile downstream from highway 70 to the highway 162 bridge, you can access the river from Riverbend Park (there is a boat ramp) on the east shore of the river. Downstream from the highway 162 bridge, you can access water from Wildlife Area Access Road along the west side of the river for about seven miles. It’s best to check a map like a DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer before you go.

The Lower Feather runs right through the town of Oroville where there is ample food and lodging. If you need help on the river or a supply of flies, try Sierra Stream & Mountain (530345-4261; www.tie-fast.com) or Fish First (530-343-8300; www. fishfirst.com) located in the town of Chico.

Northern California’s tailwaters offer limitless opportunities,

The great thing about California’s Central Valley tailwaters, is that they aren’t far from some of the state’s most populated and vis visited metroplitan areas. You can be in the water, hooking fish after a short drive from places like San Francisco or Sacramento.

twelve months of the year, to target some of the most sought after freshwater game fish in the U.S. Chances are good that if you’re in the northern portion of the state, there’s a tailwater within easy reach. The next time you visit the Golden State, give one (or all) of them a try.

Greg Vinci is a freelance writer and photographer specializing in outdoor subjects. His latest book is Flyfisher’s Guide to California.

Putah Creek (left) offers one of the most intimate angling experiences you can expect from any of California’s tailwaters.

Though slightly larger in size, flow regulations on the Lower Feather River (right) helps the current remain fairly consistent and the water temperature sit at a fish-friendly level nearly year round.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 55

NATURAL REFLECTIONS I

ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY TED FAUCEGLIA

Quill Gordon Duns Epeorus pleuralis

M

Y FLY FISHING JOURNEY actually began in the early 1980s when my wife handed me a dog-eared copy of Art Flick’s New Streamside Guide to Naturals and Their Imitations that she purchased at a local antique sale. I was a passionate ultralight gear advocate at the time, but I had never paid much attention to anything associated with fly fishing for no other reason than I just never connected with the sport.

However, I distinctly remember looking through the book that evening and wondering why would a trout pass up a worm or a minnow for a bug? None of the feathery so-called imitations pictured appeared natural—especially the dun variant pattern that looked to me like gray cottonwood fluff. A couple months later, a friend and avid fly fisher asked me to join him on his annual trip to his favorite trout

stream. It was late April, and he said the early spring hatches were in full bloom.

I said I’d go, but I was going to fish with artificial lures (think Panther Martins), and he was fine with that. To make a long story short, the trip literally changed my life. The Quill Gordons (along with some blue-winged olives and blue quills) began surfacing about 11 a.m. and continued for nearly two hours. But the trout were on the Quill Gordons that day, and they hungrily grabbed every dun in sight, including my friend’s Theodore Gordon quill-bodied pattern. I don’t know how many trout he caught that day on that fly, but it didn’t really matter because the next day he and I went to the local fly shop, and I bought my first “basic” trout outfit. Since then, the annual journey to fish North Central Pennsylvania’s early spring hatches has become a focal point on my fly fishing

calendar. I haven’t missed a year yet. The Quill Gordon hatch is the first major Eastern mayfly hatch of the season, and in many ways, the best. The duns crawl out of their nymphal shucks while they’re still on the streambed, then ascend to the surface as adults, though their wings are not quite formed. This is an opportune moment to sink an emerger pattern. Depending on the air temperature, the duns will remain on the water for an extended time because the cold air prevents the formation of their wings, and thus, their ability to fly.

Quill Gordon duns vary in size, but a standard size 14 is the only size I carry.

And yes, after over 35 years and 35 “basic” trout outfits later, I still fish Theodore Gordon’s quill-bodied pattern. That feathery imitation started my passion for fly fishing and it continues to be an integral part of that journey.

Gordon Quill Bodied Dun

HOOK: Tiemco 100, size 14.

THREAD: Yellow 8/0.

WINGS: Lemon wood duck breast feathers.

TAIL: Light-dun Microfibetts.

HACKLE: Sandy dun saddle hackle.

HEAD: Yellow 8/0 tying thread.

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FLY TYER® I

ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT SANCHEZ

Standing Out In The Crowd Incorporating contrasting colors or exaggerating specific elements on your files can make them easier to see on the water.

D

URING SOME RAINY DAYS LAST fall, I experienced some mahogany and blue-winged olive fishing that brought back and reinforced my theory that seeing your fly helps you believe in your fly. That idea is a huge asset and morale booster since some of the best small dry fly fishing of the year, if not the best dry fly fishing of the year, happens in the spring and fall when natural light can make it difficult to see. In the fall, trout feast in preparation for the winter, and in the spring, they work to regain the calories lost during the previous season. But the low angle of the sun, and rainy, snowy, or overcast skies can create a playing field of solid, glaring silver reflections, or worse yet, the wind can relocate your fly from your anticipated drift.

I feel more confident while fishing if I can track my fly during the drift, especially during heavy hatches when I need to separate my fly from the hordes of naturals. However, the ability to track your pattern isn’t something you should think about when you reach the water. It should be a notion you consider at the fly tying bench. Thankfully, there are a few tying tricks that can help make tracking your fly easy to do all year long.

The addition of bright indicators on flies isn’t anything new. In fact, there are more patterns with fluorescent wings or vivid foam indicators in fly shop bins

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If you’re afraid of spooking fish by using bright indicators on hatchmatching patterns, try adding a subtle hot spot at the base of a parachute post (above) where fish can’t see it, or mottle the wing (below) to help it stand out from hordes of naturals on the water.

than ever before, and while there’s been a debate about whether hot spots on flies bother fish, I personally don’t believe they deter strikes. That said, when you’re fishing over tougher trout, you’ll likely want more subtle options. So what are you to do? Modified or hidden indicators, or exaggerating one feature of a fly (like an extra long parachute post) are simple ways to add functional visibility. The

thing you’ll need to learn is how far you can take it.

In general, contrast—something on a fly to separate it from its background—is the key. Just remember contrast can vary depending on the angle at which you’re viewing your fly. For a wading angler, especially if you are maintaining a low profile to avoid spooking fish, the black silhouette of a fly against the bright water might be the perfect contrast. For a boat angler looking down, a fly that contrasts against the stream bottom may work best. Remember, visibility will change through any given day as the angle of the sun changes, so while something like a white parachute post might look good one hour, it might not be the best option when there’s glare on the water. Years ago, the late, innovative tier, Al Troth, tied his Gulper Special with white, orange, and black wings to match the conditions and help his clients. The bottom line is that the better the contrast, the more visible the fly will be on the water.

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Finally, vision varies by the angler. For example, young anglers might have better eyesight than older ones, and a good caster knows where to look for their fly faster than a poor caster. In general, bigger flies are easier to see than smaller ones, and as a tyer you have a big advantage of those that have to pick their flies from a bin.

Heads or Tails?

W

hen we want flies that look natural to trout but remain visible to us, a good starting point is to take the principle color of the natural you’re imitating and exaggerate it a bit with a more visible color somewhere on the pattern. For example, a yellow indicator on a PMD, sulphur, or Yellow Sally is completely within the acceptable color range of the naturals, but it should be easier for you to see on the water. You might be surprised how a little difference in color can make a fly more visible. Materials like natural light elk (bull elk) and natural tan snowshoe rabbit foot hair are great options that may not exactly match a natural but are easy to see. Moreover, some materials like elk, with its fine black tips, help create a better silhouette. Truth be told, black is a great color for flat light. Pure black isn’t a common insect wing color, but it’s close enough to the natural, dark dun color we frequently see on dark aquatic insects.

If you’re considering a bright indicator on your flies, you might ask yourself, “How bright is bright enough?” Neon and fluorescent colors show up very well on the water, but may be too bright for finicky fish, or you just might not like the way it looks among naturals. If it helps, think more along the lines of fly line colors where subtle hues of neon or fluorescent colors work amazingly well.

A few of my favorite subtle indicator colors are pale pink, pale yellow, and dull orange. The pale pink or yellow is not bright enough in a silver glare but contrasts great against a dark bottom or riverbank, and dull orange is visible and not too obtrusive. You can find most muted colors in materials like polypropylene fibers, EP Fiber, or Widow’s Web, though also think about the same hues in a matte finish—the sheen on materials like CDC, snowshoe rabbit, or poly-

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propylene contrast against shiny water.

If you want your patterns to maintain a color scheme that matches the natural, but still struggle to see your fly, another trick is to go big. Parachute posts are endemic on modern flies and one way to make them more visible is to make them long or bulky. I’m always amazed that a big post on a parachute hopper, parachute caddis, or parachute ant doesn’t seem to bother fish when that appendage isn’t on the natural critters. Traditionally, a parachute post is supposed to be approximately a shank-length long. But that doesn’t mean it has to be that way. Longer posts show up better, and if you don’t like it on the water, simply trim it shorter. Synthetic wing materials tend to maintain the same wing profile when trimmed. Similarly, you can tie a post with larger clumps of material to make it more visible—and again, you can trim it to appear sparse if you need. Don’t stop with just posts. Try adding extra material to wide wings like those on a Comparadun or Sparkle Dun, or try a split post to make a fly stand out.

One last thought on adding visible cues to your flies is to consider a stra-

The easiest way to make a fly easier to see on the water is to incorporate a bright element, like a neon post (above). However, if you prefer a color scheme that’s more natural, try embelishing a part of the fly, like a wing, with extra material so it stands out (below).

tegic placement for your indicator. If a fish can’t see the indicator, then there’s less chance of it rejecting your fly. Some examples include using a split foam wing case with the indicator coming up through the middle, like on my Split Top Emerger. A bright, painted spot on top of a foam beetle or foam head works nicely, or stack bright deer hair on top of a hair head. Don’t be afraid to try something different, even if it means modifying the classics. Lashing a few bright fibers inside the split wing of a Royal Wulff wing works great. For parachutes, adding bright dubbing around the base of a neutral-colored post works nicely.

Mixing Color

I

created my Two Tone Parachute to make it visible to anglers in multiple conditions—it’s kind of like an improved Gulper Special. I usually tie PMD versions with yellow and black Antron and the BWO imitation with orange and black Antron. Originally, I tied the black in the center so it was longer than the other color, but I’m lazy now and center the black to create a striped wing. After casting one for a while, the orange and black fibers often blend together.

I’ve adapted the same subtle multicolor wing on parachutes and emergers by hand, blending a brighter color fiber with a neutral or natural color. Polypropylene fibers work great for this, though I also like to mix a little polypropylene or Antron in with CDC or snowshoe rabbit to make it just bright enough. In the end it’s visible enough for most conditions and helps me separate it from naturals. In fact, this is my favorite technique when I need a visible indicator on smooth or slow water or when fish are selective.

When it comes to lighting conditions, be as perceptive as you can while you’re fishing so you can select a pattern you can see, and remain confident it will fool fish.

As a tier, you can take advantage of just a few of these tricks and catch more fish than those who don’t sit behind a vise.

Scott Sanchez is the shop manager for JD High Country Outfitters in Jackson, Wyoming. He won the first Federation of Fly Fishers Iron Fly Contest in 2014.

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FLY TYERÂŽ

1

Mixed Wing Parachute BWO USE THE MIXED-WING METHOD TO tie this pattern, a modified version of my Two Tone Parachute, because it lends itself well to any number of color combinations and it works on tough fish. For the wing, use either CDC or snowshoe rabbit foot and mix in enough polypropylene to give it color. The matte nature of these materials makes this fly easier to see against glare and its easy to tie in without adding bulk. To that effect, a fine dubbing, quill, or biot body also works great.

4

1

Place a drop of cement on the hook and attach the tying thread. Make a dubbing loop and pull a strand to each side of the hook before securing it to the bend of the hook.

2

Tie in about six Microfibbetts on top of the hook shank. Push the Microfibbetts down with your fingernail to evenly splay them. Then pull the dubbing loop thread up through the Microfibbetts to keep them splayed. Lightly secure the thread loop and adjust the tension before firmly securing the thread. Leave the remainder of the loop to create the rib.

3 4 5 6

Secure the body thread to the top of the hook shank.

7

Wrap the body thread so it creates a flat, thin, tapered abdomen.

Wrap the thread loop forward with even spaces between wraps to create the rib.

Strip the fibers off a CDC feather and pair them with a similarly sized clump of EP Fibers. Mix the fibers so the CDC and fibers are parallel.

7

Tie the CDC and EP Fibers on the shank one-third of the way back from the hook eye. Lift the post up and add thread wraps around the base so it stands vertical.

8

Attach the hackle stem near the base of the post and then dub the thorax. Wrap dubbing around the post using figure eight turns of thread.

9

Wrap the hackle and around the base of the post post and secure the remainder with thread. Trim the excess hackle off, whip finish and cut the thread, and add head cement.

10

Trim the post to your desired length and add cement to the base. Then trim the post again so its shape has a more natural looking taper.

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HOOK: Short shank dry fly, sizes 14 to 20.

THREAD: Gray 8/0 (or color of choice).

TAIL: Split dun Microfibbetts, one shank length long.

BODY: Gray 8/0 tying thread (or color of choice).

RIB: A contrasting color of tying thread.

POST: Dark dun CDC and orange EP Fibers.

HACKLE: Dark dun saddle hackle, 1½ hook gaps long.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 61

EXPEDITIONS

Rumble In The Jungle

62 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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Slugging it out with trophy-sized tigerfish in the heart of Africa’s Zambezi River.

by George Robey

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE ROBEY

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 63

EXPEDITIONS

T

he first sucker punch was a ripper that left me flat-footed and awestruck. But instinct quickly took over and I knew it was time to rumble.

My taunting started the brouhaha, but with good reason. A squadron of whiskered terns and gluttonous grey-headed gulls dive bombed baitfish along the great Zambezi River—a sure sign tigerfish were on the prowl. No living angler could resist teasing the fish.

I strained a long cast into the wind and dropped a red and black Clouser Minnow into the drink and it quickly descended along the edge of a channel break barely 50 meters from the diving birds.

I twitched the fly a time or two before a hungry tiger gave me its best shot.

Momentarily bewildered, all my angling skills remained on hold. Fly line raced from under my feet, sprang off the deck, and whistled through the rod guides.

I awkwardly tried to feather the line but only managed to burn my fingertips.

The reel brake was no match for the charging fish. When it pulled into my backing, the tiger jumped. The fast, silvery fish breeched to the east while my rod tip continued to point north.

At the urging of my seasoned fishing guide, I kept the rod tip low to the water and angled the rest of the stick to one side. Slowly, inch by inch, like a boxer armed with a timed routine of combination punches, I gained ground, and heard a final bell ring in my head when the fish finally slid into the net.

A few hours later, beneath a fiery orange sky, we docked the boat at Illombe Island, just below the fishing lodge. A pretty Lozi girl named Ivy Nangrmbe greeted us with a flask of sherry and poured everyone in the boat a snifter.

“If you caught fish today, drink up. If not, throw your drink into the river as an offering to the mighty river god, Nyami Nyami,” Ivy announced in broken English. I savored every drop and thanked the tribal spirit for his generous gift.

Tigers By The Tail “You cannot be prepared for the take of a tiger,” said Garreth Coombes, international 64 I AMERICAN ANGLER

fly angler, renowned fishing guide, and master of the Zambezi. “There is nothing like it in freshwater.” Coombes claims he has traveled the world with fly rod in hand and has not yet found a tougher freshwater game fish. That includes the golden dorado of South America, a distant cousin of the tigerfish, which natives often refer to as El Tigre de la Ria (Tiger of the River).

Tigerfish are a world-renowned game fish that reside on the African continent in limited, specific geographical territories in the Sub-Saharan region, like the upper and lower Zambezi River basins, the Eastern Caprivi and Barotse flood plains, the Okavango Delta, a few Tanzanian waterways, and the Komati River system.

One of a tiger’s most distinctive features is its large head, mouth full of sharp, conical, canine teeth, and hard, bony jowls affixed to a torpedo-shaped body. Their red and orange fins, trimmed in black, are evolutionary appendages developed over millennia to help them prosper in strong river currents.

The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) denotes a 22-pound, 8-ounce tiger caught in Tanzania as the largest caught on fly. However, the 16-pound tippet record remains 17 pounds, 10 ounces, and was taken on the Zambezi River, perhaps in the same spot we fished. Schools of fish form nomadic packs near the flood plains and chase schooling baitfish in earnest during the African winter months of June, July and August, during which time trophy fish are most vulnerable.

Coombes is the marketing director for Sekoma and Ilombe Lodges, privately owned fishing camps situated on two upper Zambezi islands. Truth be told, he spends as much time on the water as he does booking clients. Not only is the lodge operating at full capacity during the winter season, Coombes trains all the guides.

A “river dog” in his own right, Coombes told me to bring an 8- and 9-weight rod, quality reels with strong drags, lots of backing, a Scientific Anglers DI-7 Tropical sinking fly line, 15-pound test Maxima Ultragreen leaders, and a spool of wire.

“No need to bring flies, I have plenty.

But if you want to tie a few, make them weighted Clousers, Whistlers, Zonkers, or Brush Flies, mostly in black/red, but grey/

silver, and olive/gold are good, too.”

On my flight from Johannesburg, South Africa to Livingstone, Zambia, I felt like I was the only one traveling into this distant place. As it turns out, there was a group of us headed to Sekoma and Ilombe Lodges. We sat alone on the outgoing flight, dreaming quietly of big tigers, but became quick friends when we determined our shared cause. Soon after, smiling faces from Sekoma Lodge greeted us as we loaded into a comfortable, air conditioned van stocked with refreshments.

The staff chauffeured us to a drop-off point along the river where our gear was loaded into a large transport boat that ferried us to the islands. Squacco herons crossed in front, open-billed storks passed overhead, friendly villagers in wooden canoes waved as we passed, and the green water beckoned. The Zambezi never ceases to inspire me and the boat ride renewed old memories.

I recounted my last trip to this magnificent waterway when, a few years back, my wife and I took a mid-December break to chase tigerfish. She caught a brute of 17 pounds which happened to be the largest a lodge guest caught that year. The pool where she dredged up that monster was somewhere nearby, but the water was much lower then, and the lack of landmarks made it tough for me to find. But that memory is just as vivid and heartwarming as the day it happened.

At Ilombe Island Lodge, additional staff members greeted us with cool drinks and helped us find our way to luxury tents that would be home for the duration of our trip.

Darkness came quickly and our squad of fly anglers enjoyed a buffet of great food before gathering around the campfire. The sun was warm and comfortable during the boat transfer but as the shadows lengthened it became cold enough to for a fleece jacket. Winter nights can be cold in Africa. We talked, laughed, told fish tales from the past, and discussed our prospects for the week ahead. Put simply, we determined those of us fishing long rods are optimists and dreamers.

The Zambezi and Caprivi The Zambezi is unlike any North AmeriWWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

Fly anglers love tigerfish (middle right) because they not only look like the baddest predator in freshwater, they fight like crazy. Use simple, weighted flies like Clouser Minnows and Brush Flies (middle left) around points, channel breaks, and sandbars (top), especially as water levels subside and baitfish flee the exposed structure (below).

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 65

EXPEDITIONS can river system—it’s not necessarily longer, wider, or larger than other river, but it’s certainly much older. Evidence collected from the rifts, valleys, and Mesozoic fossil beds indicate the Zambezi may be the oldest river in the world.

Fed by countless tributaries, the great river courses some 1,600 miles, beginning in the miombo woodlands of northern Zambia, a mere stone’s throw from the Congo, then south through Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, before surging into the Indian Ocean. Victoria Falls separates the river into sections. The Upper Zambezi above and the Lower Zambezi below, and Kariba Dam and Cahora Bassa are two large lakes formed by the river system.

The rains of Sub-Saharan Africa dictate the river’s ebb and flow. The country’s rainy season begins in November in the upper reaches of Angola before spreadIf you’re fortunate enough to catch a tigerfish (left), a drink at the end of the day is your reward (right). If you aren’t so lucky, it’s customary to throw the drink into the Zambezi as an offering to the river god, Nyami Nyami.

66 I AMERICAN ANGLER

ing south and continuing through April.

Heavy downpours load the river as it pushes downstream onto flood plains in Barotseland and the Eastern Caprivi where water holds through the rainy season.

The lakes, tributaries, and flood plains are home to hundreds of fish species and a vast array of bird life and wildlife. The Caprivi remains a top birding destination.

Watchers have recorded more than 450 species in this relatively small region, though shore birds like egrets, storks, ibis, and herons are common. Raptors hover above the hippo grass and hide in the papyrus, and the haunting song of the coppery-tailed coucal becomes a lasting memory.

Of other wildlife, anglers are certain to see hippos and crocodiles. Sightings of elephants are common near the river and vervet monkeys hide in treetops near camp waiting to snatch a quick snack. The unfenced Chobe Wildlife Reserve sits a short

distance from the lodge’s fishing grounds and hosts the largest population of wild elephants in the world, though visitors also see lions, leopards, buffalo, and more.

The indigenous people of the BaTonga and Lozi tribes inhabit the Eastern Caprivi and fishing is often good near the villages of Kalikalika, Mandombe, Mwezi, and Nantugu. The nomadic villagers build their homes with reeds and thatch, speak either the Lozi or Tonga language, travel in handmade wooden canoes called mokoros, and set nets close along the shoreline.

The BaTonga people revere a river god called Nyami Nyami who is believed to control life in and around the Zambezi River basin, and protects the chosen BaTonga people. Nyami Nyami is depicted as a snake with the head of a fish and many sport anglers wear a medallion depicting the river deity as a prospect for good luck.

Tiger Tactics The drone of an outboard caught my attention just before the engine died and I heard the gravel crunch of the boat’s bow landing. I walked the short distance from my tent to the river and heard Coombes instructing a young guide to secure the boat and fishing tackle. It’s almost dark, but I made out his silhouette against the water. Coombes and I greet one another and walked a sandy trail to the main lodge’s welcoming fire.

“We had big rains this year and the fishing has been great,” he says excitedly before opening the floodgates to years of river knowledge.

The river’s seasonal flow dictates tigerfish movement and it becomes clear to me few anglers understand the puzzling dynamic better than Coombes.

Although he welcomes the blessing of Nyami Nyami, he also mitigates good luck with a nuanced understanding of game fish, an intimate knowledge of river patterns, and years of fishing experience.

Changing water levels, high flows, and the combined impact on forage fish provides insight into a complex riddle.

As the rains begin in November, north of the Caprivi, water levels slowly rise. The rains gain strength throughout the African summer months and spread to the south.

Eventually, the flow is too much for the river and excess water spills onto the grasslands.

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The steep mud banks of the Zambezi are overrun and the river morphs into a series of flooded lakes. But water is not the only thing that invades the flood plains.

Thousands, if not millions of fish— catfish, tilapia and chiclids, bulldogs, and parrot fish march onto the newly formed pans and enjoy a feeding frenzy in the weeds. Soon, the fish begin to spawn. The eggs hatch and fry grow quickly in the fertile environment. But the frolic ends in April, when rains stop and the water recedes.

It begins as a trickle. Water slowly leaks back to the Zambezi during the month of May. By mid-June, water levels are typically below the river bank and streams of gushing water force into the main channel.

Small fish wash into the current and form tight bait balls. Gulls, terns, cormorants, and darters attack from above while tigerfish ambush from below.

Although this phenomenon undoubtedly played out for many years, it remained unnoticed until quite recently.

About 20 years ago, an adventurous group of fly fishing pioneers discovered

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the evacuating bait fish that eased into the natural, repeating pattern, thus opening the door for anglers like Coombes.

“You know what else I like about fishing the winter months?” Coombes asked as the fire embers began to fade. “We sleep in a bit, let the sun come up and warm the water. Then we hit it hard and fish ‘til dark.”

Hunting Tigers Coombes the companion is personable, extroverted, carefree, and fun. Coombes the fly angler is a motivated, pedantic, loner who dwells on minutiae. It serves him well. A passion for big tigers has made him one of the most respected guides on the Zambezi and keeps him

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 67

Classifieds Classifieds

EXPEDITIONS EXPEDITIONS EXPEDITIONS

BILL TIPTON

FISHING GUIDES/LODGING

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Both camps have a Visit www.ezflytie.com his communal rod into the water toworked, get better dorado.

Trust later, when barThe and strategy gathering areaawhere served around ame, campfire every night. angle oflow attack. andfood isare sitting home onmonths a cold winter night,you angle ofGlynn attack.

The strategy and are be sitting home a cold winter night, manages both retreats runs a tight demands high-end service we netted theCrowther fish only a few worked, minutes laterand it’ll hardship. notHe toon think about Entre Rios, from his staff of about 40 local villagers.

Additionally, Sekoma Lodge donates a boat to local auwe netted the fish only a few minutes later it’ll be hard not to think about Entre Rios, American Angler Classified Ad Rates andthorities rejoiced when it tipped the scales at Argentina where the weather is warm and to curb poaching in the region.

As a result, the food iswhere top notch, the guidesisare excellent $2.25American per word with Angler a $45 minimum or $2.00 perAd wordRates with a $40 Classified and rejoiced when it tipped the scales at Argentina the weather warm and 10 pounds. the dorado redare hot. minimum if youwith participate in all six or annual Webwith address, $2.25 per word a $45 minimum $2.00 issues. per word a $40 (for fishing and eco-tours), the lodging is comfortable, and theaction service is staff attentive. Beyond email address, phone numbers,instreet abbreviations will 10 pounds. the game dorado action is red hot.cultural tours of minimum if you participate all sixaddress annualand issues.

Web address, Several other dorado managed to the fishing, the staff can help arrange nature walks, drives, birdwatching, all be counted one word.

Ad copy be sent Mike Floyd will via email address, as phone numbers, streetmay address andtoabbreviations Several other managed email mike.floyd@morris.com.

All classifieds needtotoMike be prepaid or indigenous villages, and traveltoadventures to For Victoria Falls. all be atcounted as one word. Ad copy may be sent Floyd via break the line, spitdorado therafting, hook or entangle more than 30 years, Gary Kramer accompanied by a credit card number expiration date.to(The publisher email at mike.floyd@morris.com.

Alland classifieds need be prepaid or break the line, spit the hook or entangle For morethe than 30 years, Gary reserves the right editcard and/or rejectand all ads and inappropriate copy). themselves in the vegetation before we has traveled globe, hunting andKramer fishing accompanied by ato credit number expiration date. (The publisher reserves the right to edit and/or reject all ads and inappropriate copy). themselves in the vegetation before we has traveled the globe, hunting and fishing headed back to the lodge that day.

But in 56 countries.

A prolific writer and phoFor more information contact: Anglers catch tigerfish yearthat roundday. in the Zambezi River, butcountries. the prime time is June, writer July, andand August— headed back to the lodge But in 56 A prolific phooverall, the trip was huge success and tographer, you can see more of his work at ForMike more information contact: winter in the southern hemisphere. This is when the flood plains recede and bait fish wash into the Floyd (706) 823.3739 overall, the trip was huge success and tographer, you can see more of his work at made it river. clearFly tofishing me that dorado deserve a times www.garykramer.net. main is not impossible at other of the year, but success isn’t as consistent.

Mike Floyd (706) 823.3739 mike.floyd@morris.com made it clear to me that dorado deserve a www.garykramer.net.

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70 68 II AMERICAN AMERICANANGLER ANGLER 70 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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Harry Murray’s Fly Fishing Schools

fully booked through the winter season.

“Most people follow the terns and work their flies in the middle of the bait balls. They catch lots of juvenile fish in the five- to eight-pound range,” he points out between false casts. “I like to target fish over 10 pounds and they are not found there.”

Coombes explains that tigers group together by size, most of them under 10 pounds. The smaller tigers work in concert to viciously attack schools of forage washed into the river from the receding flood plains. The big solitary tigers hang nearby at the edges of the melee, lazily picking off crippled bait fish or morsels adrift in the current.

Although documentation among fly anglers remains scant (Coombes readily admits to his own poor record keeping), he believes the average size of tigerfish caught in the Caprivi during the winter season hovers between 5 and 8 pounds, which he attributes to the juvenile tiger’s constant preying on bait balls. When asked how many tigers he and his clients catch each season that weigh over 10 pounds, he simply says, “a lot.”

It would take years to understand the fish and the river the way Coombes does, but sharing a boat with the amiable guide revealed many of his unique tactics. He doesn’t follow other boats, nor does he listen to the echoes of other guides and anglers. He makes his own luck.

Bait balls and feeding birds play a major role in his repertoire, but he doesn’t charge in and cast flies amidst the froth.

Rather, he’s a pensive angler who selects a ledge, point, or current break before laboriously working the edges. He also spends a great deal of time alone, in the main river and channels, blind casting to points, river mouths, channel breaks, sandbar edges, and mudlines. Big, solitary tigers quietly hunt these areas without attracting the attention of dive-bombing birds. That attention to detail remains a vital attribute for consistently landing super-sized tigers, and Coombes demonstrated that power soon after he examined a regurgitated meal in a landing net.

“Sometimes, tigers feed on shoals of small bream (tilapia) that are more brown than other forage fish, and that’s one time they can become quite particular about WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

fly size and color,” he explained as he used scissors to cut down the length of a brown/grey Clouser on the end of my piano wire tippet.

I lobbed another cast at the edge of some churning water and allowed the freshly trimmed fly to sink. After only two strips, a smashing strike nearly pulled the rod from my hand. The tiger jumped, danced, and strained hard against the rod, reminding me of the brute power these game fish possess.

The toothy fish came in at less than 10 pounds and so my new friend, the river dog, was not overly impressed.

Try as I might, 10 pounds would remain my largest fish caught that week, though I brought many fish to the net, and another lodge guest managed to land a solid 16-pounder, amongst a series of other great fish landed.

The homeward boat ride was more raucous than it was on our arrival. Our diverse party of fly anglers had become friends and we loudly relived the week’s experiences.

Despite the shared joy and laughter, each of us carried personal memories of this final frontier in Africa. It was all bittersweet.

For me, and others who fish for mere pleasure, the weight of a fish is a small measure of the total experience. The daybreak serenade of bulbuls and Hueglin’s robins, magenta sunsets, new friendships, Zambezi campfires, and the sound of hippos in the night will forever remain a part of my fishing memories.

If I were a betting man, I’d say odds are good that anyone making a trip to the mighty Zambezi in search of tigerfish will feel the same coup de grace as I did—if there ever was a fish and destination that could make an angler feel like they’ve been leveled by a knockout punch in the third round, certainly this is it. My only advice is to be prepared for the fight.

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George Robey lives in South Africa and is a senior staff writer for The Bass Angler magazine, an international freelance writer and an importer/distributor for Venom Lures, a lineup of freshwater bass fishing tackle.

Visit www.americanangler.com to see a slideshow of other images captured on this expedition.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 69

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WATERLINES (Continued from page 72) just off of our stern. Black bears were visible on just about every shoreline. Dall sheep could be seen above the tree line on the surrounding peaks, and porpoises bearing the same name could be seen cavorting in the emerald green water. Rare birds could be observed in just about every glance.

We had a refuge that we used to hide from our busy schedule; a particular cove on a particular island that we would retreat to whenever time allowed. Aldo Leopold wrote “Wilderness is the one kind of playground which mankind cannot build to order[.]” But if I were to attempt such a feat I would hope my results would mirror the panorama here. I can’t tell you what made this place so spectacular; by Prince William Sound standards it was fairly mundane. Just another spot where the sea is abruptly interrupted by spruce trees. Maybe it was the sound of the brooks babbling their way seaward, or the smell of the muskeg. For whatever reason, it drew us back time and time again to enjoy the tiny atoll’s stereotypical beauty.

We anchored our Whaler in deep water, and ferried ourselves ashore in our inflatable dingy, doing our best impression of the fox, the chicken, and the sack of grain to get everyone and their gear on dry land. It was an idyllic afternoon, the sun’s rays shining down on us with the diffuse intensity that only the Alaskan sun can produce. A couple of the field hands set about gathering berries as that was one of their favored pastimes. I set about stringing up my rod, as did one of the other techs, as this was our favored pastime. As we were slipping into our waders, the cry of “Yah bear! Hey bear!” grew distant as the foragers disappeared into the bountiful thicket. We slowly crept into the stream, stripping line as we went.

The chums were running, but we were not snobbish. It was typical low tide salmon fishing —the kind of angling where you can’t really miss even if you tried. We were throwing flies to fish with their dorsal fins exposed. Because of the low water, they were stacked like cordwood in the deeper sections of the tidal creek. If they didn’t hit on the first presentation, they would on the consecutive one. Just put it in front of them enough times that they got angry enough to WWW.AMERICANANGLER.COM

attack the brazen intruder fly tiers in the region referred to as a hot bugger. While they didn’t provide the screaming runs of silvers, they fought well enough to put a parabolic bend in a five-weight, occasionally slipping some drag as they retreated toward sea.

Just as we were getting lulled into a mild hypnosis by the pattern of cast, strip, hook, release, the silence was interrupted

no governance on this troupe.

Just when I thought the show was coming to its climax, I was rewarded with the piece de resistance. Following the same route as the others, two eagles streaked across the sky at an alarming rate of speed. But it wasn’t their velocity that was astonishing; it was their intertwined bodies. Their talons were interlocked,

If you have ever heard the shrill cry of our national bird, you’ll never forget it. Part whistle, part howl, it is an unmistakable noise. by a high-pitched shriek. My concentration was shattered, and my gaze shifted skyward just in time to see the first of the eagles begin their procession from the island’s interior. Just as he got overhead, he turned and started cartwheeling through the sky. Then, as if on cue, another eagle cried out for attention, and followed a similar flight path as the other. This would repeat itself until there were no less than five of these regal creatures performing acrobatics in the airspace above us.

If you have ever heard the shrill cry of our national bird, you’ll never forget it.

Part whistle, part howl, it is an unmistakable noise. Although it resembles other birds of prey, it has a certain intangible quality that leaves little doubt to the call’s source. Although this sound was somewhat commonplace in these wilds, it never lost its majesty. There are certain animals that simply invoke your respect, and the bald eagle is undoubtedly one of them. Whether utilizing thermal currents for a lazy patrol of their kingdoms, or plucking prey from an open field or open water, they always seem to conduct themselves with the grace and poise of royalty.

The birds moved in formation, effortlessly gaining and losing altitude on a whim.

Like fencers meeting thrust with parry, their movements seem to counter one another’s.

If one moved toward the sun, the others would move in to intercept, as if his beak would destroy the celestial body left unchecked. They corkscrewed through the sky, ascending clockwise only to reverse course and fall toward the ocean. Dramatic descents were stopped seemingly on a dime, with the winged creatures apparently levitating in this space. It seemed that the laws of physics had

face-to-face as they waltzed through the bluebird sky. These two were performing maneuvers that would make the most experienced Blue Angel pilot’s knuckles turn white with apprehension. All the while one was upside down, trading positions with each other as they paraded across the sky in their aerial ballet, gaining and losing altitude as the spectacle continued.

I have no idea how long this dance continued. It’s hard enough to keep track of time when the sun doesn’t move. But when you’re so engrossed in something that you can’t avert your eyes long enough to blink, time seems to stand still. It could have been two minutes; it could have been 20. Such was the distraction that I forgot about the salmon too numerous to count finning well within casting distance. I do now believe I truly understand the feeling of “lost time.” My entire being was caught up in the flights of fancy overhead.

Although I share initials with the late John James Audubon, I doubt I have the same understanding he had of the avian community. I still don’t have an explanation for that day’s events. Often times the young of a species will spar with each other, but these weren’t fledglings. I don’t imagine it was a mating display, as it was too late in the season. A part of me wants to believe I was invited to the annual Eagles’ Ball, an exhibition few humans are ever summoned to. The biologist in me knows this not to be true, but a little wishful thinking never hurts anyone.

Joseph Albanese’s tenure in natural resources took him from the shadow of the Empire State building to the remote Alaskan Bush.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 I 71

WATERLINES I

BY JOESPH J. ALBANESE

The Eagle’s Ball Salmon on the fly, shrieking birds of prey, and reflections of John Muir in Hazelwood’s Last Frontier.

A

sun we pointed our Boston Whaler along a preordained heading, steaming over the same ordinals as our predecessors did in the years prior. We were conducting the Prince William Sound summer survey, a task required by Joseph Hazelwood’s vodka-soaked navigation of the Straits of Valdez. Since the Exxon Valdez became mired on the Bligh Reef, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has been attempting to quantify the loss and subsequent rebound of marine and avian life in the Sound.

So we chugged along at seven knots, recording every bird and mammal in a 100-meter radius. We all had our roles down pat, a product of endless repetition.

Spotters spotted, navigators navigated, pilots piloted, and recorders recorded. We were a

well-oiled, well-fatigued machine. Hypervigilance takes a toll even when practiced for a short while, but to keep it up for such extended periods is exhausting. And though we were like family, having worked, cooked, and eaten together, we could use some elbowroom from time to time. There is only so much room aboard a 25-foot vessel, and we certainly needed some R & R. John Muir once remarked, “To the lover of wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.” This was not lost on us; our eyes could not drink up all of the natural beauty that surrounded us. Everywhere you looked the view was like one of the most fantastic post cards you have ever seen. Pods of orcas herded salmon (Continued on page 71)

EAGLES, BY TOM BEECHAM (1926-2000). COURTESY OF REMINGTON ARMS.

LTHOUGH THE RUST OF TIME had not yet stained my beard its characteristic salt-and-pepper hue, I was somehow granted the wisdom to know that we were witnessing something unique. I could live another 10 lifetimes and never get to see a performance such as the one I bore witness to that fateful evening. It was as if some of Mother Earth’s most charismatic players conspired to give us humble, weary travelers a performance that we would never forget. Such events only happen if whatever deity John Muir must have prayed to deem you worthy.

After a long week afloat, we all needed a break. A short field season combined with nearly 24 hours of light made for long days. For 18 hours of that endless

72 I AMERICAN ANGLER

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