Whether one is a novice or seasoned angler much thought typically goes into the selection of a new fishing rod, especially if it is a fly rod. While the experienced fly fisher will most likely be adding a specialty rod to an already established arsenal of gear, the newcomer is often seeking an all-round fly rod to handle diverse angling situations and conditions encountered around Long Island. Fly rods fall into the equipment category of “no one size fits all”. But for the inshore saltwater angler the selection process is made a bit easier since there are in fact a few rod styles and designs that best meet the needs of anglers who desire to toss flies to striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, false albacore and bonito. There are some pundits out there who still shroud the process of fly rod selection in opaque mystique, but buying your first saltwater fly rod need not be an anxiety filled event.
There are fundamentally two types of new entrants into the world of saltwater fly-fishing, those who have converted from freshwater and those whose initiation into the sport is through a baptism by saltwater. If you fall in to the former category you would be well served to leave many of your freshwater experiences and habits behind, especially as they pertain to casting a fly rod. In saltwater, the entire casting process slows down and the dynamics of loading a rod take on more significance.
When selecting a rod, the most important consideration is to actually cast a few models so that you have a feel for what all the labeling lingo really means. And cast the rod with some form of fly resistance at the end of the line. I always get a kick out of the parking lot cowboys who revel in how far a rod can cast without the effects of bulky fly resistance, and without the effects of actual fishing conditions. One time while on a tarpon trip in Florida I stopped at a fly fishing shop a cousin of mine frequented. The proprietor of the store raved about a new 12- weight model he had just received in stock and twisted my arm to give it a try. So out into the parking lot we went. It was a very fast-tip rod with a 13-weight sinking line spooled to the reel. That rod was like a rocket launcher. I threw several casts out of the parking lot and into the street and had no remaining fly line on the reel. It was one of those “gotta have this rod” moments, until I was brought back to reality by the facts that there was no big fly on the tippet, there was no wind, there were no rolling tarpon to frazzle my nerves and I wasn’t trying to balance myself on a small casting platform while listening to a cantankerous Everglades guide bark out distance and watch face commands at me – “Tarpon 11 o’clock, 25 yards…cast, cast, cast!” I resisted the temptation to shell out a few hundred bucks for that rod and maintained faith in my tried and true travel rod. In the end, we landed two tarpon on the fly that trip and jumped a few more.
Most fly rod blanks are described as having parabolic actions that are full-flex, mid-flex or tip-flex in their design. Simply put, this means slow, medium and fast action blanks. If you envision a blank loading under the weight of a line being false cast, a full-flex blank will behave much like the designation implies, the flex will be spread throughout the entire blank, from the tip to the butt section. A mid-flex action involves those portions of the blank from the tip to the mid-region of the rod. And lastly, a tip-flex rod will have most all of its action contained in the tip section of the rod. This latter form of rod action is most commonly referred to as being “fast”. Most saltwater fly anglers will opt for rods that are mid or tip-flex models. One advantage of a mid-flex rod for the new fly angler is that the action is much more forgiving of the casting errors that typically come with the learning process, and before a level of consistent casting proficiency is achieved. On the flip side most anglers I know choose fast tip rods. In average to good casting hands tip-flex rods can load heavier lines very effectively and efficiently, and adjust well to those fly rodders who like to step-up their lines one size. As well, a fast tip can offer quick loading for speedy shots at cruising fish. Either action would serve you well for most all inshore applications.
If I had to choose one size fly rod as a standard all-arounder for Long Island use it would be a 9-foot, 9-weight, fast-tip model. That type rod is one I employ for about 75% of my local fly-fishing. It gives me range for most all of my beach, boat and kayak fishing for bass, blues, bonito, albies, Spanish mackerel and weakfish. I occasionally can size a 10-weight line on it and I can effectively fish a 300-grain sink tip. While the 9-weight is my go-to fly rod I must admit to enjoying the benefits of a 10-weight when throwing larger flies or when I go dredging with very high-grain sinking tips. I will often resort to an 11-weight when tossing large top-water popper for big, tenacious bluefish.
A good entry level 9-weight need not break the bank either. There are quite a few models on the market right now that are moderately priced. If you’d like a few recommendations shoot me an email and I’ll suggest a few.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
Make Mine a "Margarita"
About this time each winter I begin reading feverishly any materials related to the outdoors. Much of that has to do with the onset of seasonal affective disorder arising both from fewer hours of daylight and less time outdoors. I also spend more time at my tying vise adding to an already humungous inventory of flies. The reading and the tying both help alleviate the symptoms of fishing withdrawal. I was at the vise the other day looking through one of my many fly wallets and came upon a pattern that I originated for Alaska silver salmon about a dozen years back. It is a fly that has served me well on numerous salmon trips. The pattern has relevance to the local fishing scene since I modified it for use on striped bass. So I figured I would share the history and the tying pattern
When it comes to fly tying I take my inspiration however I can get it. I learned a long time ago that some of the best of tying ideas sometimes come from the most unusual sources. And so it was with the Alaska Margarita. I guess I must first admit to being a Parrot Head, a disciple of lord Jimmy Buffet. While reading the recipe for his sublime margarita concoction I got to thinking about all the tropical colors associated with the blend and instantly thought about how those colors might work in a fly design. The more I contemplated the design, the more I became convinced that coastal silver salmon would just go bonkers over a fly with those hues, tones and contrasts. When I finally got to try out the fly on some feisty silvers, I wasn’t at all disappointed. As it turned out, striped bass also love the pattern.
The most tantalizing effects of the fly result from the pulsating and undulating motion of marabou. The striper version incorporates the addition of a slender saddle hackle tail. That too adds seductive appeal. The bead chain eyes in the weighted version also allow for a jig-like motion to be achieved during the retrieve. That combined with the blended colors - proven over time to stimulate strikes from silver salmon - has led to an effective and dependable series of patterns. By varying the color combinations, the pattern becomes a very versatile fly for replicating a wide variety of bait, and for addressing different fishing conditions. Though I have not yet discovered all the secrets of the perfect margarita, the “margarita” and its variations come close to being some of the best patterns that I have used for tidal cohos and striped bass.
When it comes to fly tying I take my inspiration however I can get it. I learned a long time ago that some of the best of tying ideas sometimes come from the most unusual sources. And so it was with the Alaska Margarita. I guess I must first admit to being a Parrot Head, a disciple of lord Jimmy Buffet. While reading the recipe for his sublime margarita concoction I got to thinking about all the tropical colors associated with the blend and instantly thought about how those colors might work in a fly design. The more I contemplated the design, the more I became convinced that coastal silver salmon would just go bonkers over a fly with those hues, tones and contrasts. When I finally got to try out the fly on some feisty silvers, I wasn’t at all disappointed. As it turned out, striped bass also love the pattern.
The most tantalizing effects of the fly result from the pulsating and undulating motion of marabou. The striper version incorporates the addition of a slender saddle hackle tail. That too adds seductive appeal. The bead chain eyes in the weighted version also allow for a jig-like motion to be achieved during the retrieve. That combined with the blended colors - proven over time to stimulate strikes from silver salmon - has led to an effective and dependable series of patterns. By varying the color combinations, the pattern becomes a very versatile fly for replicating a wide variety of bait, and for addressing different fishing conditions. Though I have not yet discovered all the secrets of the perfect margarita, the “margarita” and its variations come close to being some of the best patterns that I have used for tidal cohos and striped bass.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
The Virtues of Light Tackle
Long before the fly rod entered my life and became a preferred tool, I was equally as hooked on light tackle angling. As a matter of fact, I still am. In great part, that predilection stems from my early freshwater fishing roots for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Back then I didn’t venture anywhere without several spinning and conventional casting outfits rigged with a range of lines from eight to twelve-pound test line. Over time, I added a bass-bugging fly rod to my arsenal, accumulating what I believed was a very well rounded array of tackle, capable of handling most any bass-fishing situation. And when I first dipped a toe in saltwater I did so with that same gear. I will admit, the feistier briny bass, and other salty inhabitants fully tested that tackle but in the end stripers, bluefish, weakfish, Atlantic bonito, fluke, Spanish mackerel and a host of other indigenous and migratory species succumbed to my light-line orientation. While today’s tackle is much more sophisticated than it was back when I started to fish, the common thread between then and now is that maintaining a broad-based approach to my fishing endeavors was and remains a key to consistency and success. Fly-fishing and light spinning or casting gear are very complementary tools of the trade and work well in tandem with one another, enhancing the overall fishing experience.
A New Paradigm
The sport fishing industry is witnessing a rather interesting phenomenon. We seem to be in the midst of a light tackle renaissance. Back about two decades ago, and paralleling the striped bass revival, sport fishing saw an explosion of interest in saltwater fly-fishing. More than ever before literal throngs of anglers took up the long rod. Many were freshwater trout converts motivated by the opportunity to hook larger and stronger fish than they were used catching. Others were seasoned surf and boat salts looking for a new way to entice fish to strike. And then there were the completely new entrants into the arena, beginning their fly-fishing journey in saltwater. For nearly twenty years that community of anglers grew to a point where it spawned a dynamic and full-service industry centered about fly-fishing. We now have more fly anglers among our ranks than ever before in the history of the sport, fueling guiding businesses, charter captains, equipment and clothing manufacturers, lodges, exotic destinations and much more. And this is all for good reason – fly-fishing is a very effective way to fish. At times, fly-fishing techniques will out perform other forms of angling. But several years ago something interesting began to happen. Fishing tackle retailers saw a spike in the number of light tackle outfits they were selling and a little research revealed that many of those of those buying spinning and conventional outfits were fly fisherman. Heresy you might say. Not I. Just the application of some common sense. There simply are times when one needs to be flexible in the approach to fishing if you want to maximize the opportunities. Admittedly, there are those die-hard anglers and guides among us who remain pure to the use of the fly. But the growing trend is to move more toward the middle and fish both fly and light tackle as conditions warrant. One very famous TV fishing personality is prone to say of his personal fishing, “Take what God gives you.” Simply put, give the fish what they want and how they want it.
Optimizing Opportunities
There are many examples of optimizing fly and light tackle gear but a couple of situations best illustrate my personal experiences. Much of my fishing takes place along the beaches of the north shore. In the spring when the sand launce swarm there is nothing I would rather have in my casting hand than a long rod rigged with my favorite sand eel pattern. This is truly a time of year when flies can out fish just about any other form of artificial lure and astonishingly, even bait. If all goes well I can get a solid month and a half of this sort of fishing with bass very close in range to the fly rod. A similar scenario plays out in the fall as well with migrating fish within east reach of the fly rod. But mid-summer can present some surf fly-fishing challenges unless a retreat is made to the cover of darkness. This is a time where and when light tackle comes to the rescue. Within the areas I fish bass and large bluefish set up along summer cruising and feeding lanes that are often more than two or three solid fly rod casts off the beach. Hard as I might try and regardless how efficient my casts are, my longest fly line is only 125 feet in length. That limits casting and catching potential. Fish do come in close but not with the frequency they remain out of fly rod range. A friend of mine often shares this stretch of beach with me, usually armed with a spinning outfit. He will most often put up better numbers on the scoreboard and will also usually have a better quality catch. I can still manage fish on the long wand but his ability to reach the outer edges of where the fish congregate and feed insures much better results. I too have now come to fish this location at this particular point in the season with light surf tackle. It is just a much more dependable way to fish.
Playing Both Ways
But there is a flip side to this story as well. As the summer progresses and small rain bait - like bay anchovies - make an appearance, the probability of encountering Atlantic bonito or false albacore along the beaches increases. While pelagic species can certainly be caught consistently from boat or beach with conventional plugs or lures, flies are the best way to imitate the micro baits that bones or albies are often keyed in on. Some days flies will totally out fish any other method. And the satisfaction of taking fish this way is tough to surpass. But here is where the plot thickens further. There are also times when game fish are so keyed in on such masses of diminutive bait that even the most anatomically correct fly goes unnoticed from among the real deal. Ay fly rodder who has spent time pursuing pelagics will attest to this very frustrating situation. The challenge here is to catch the attention of fish and cause them to react to an artificial bait. Many fly anglers will resort to larger or flashier flies when this selectivity occurs but I have found very light spinning gear gets the job done much more effectively. The reason: you can get a flashy plug or lure in front of the fish quicker and move it away faster than you can with a fly retrieve. That accelerated “fleeing” motion is more apt to trigger a reaction strike. It is for that reason that during the bonito and albies seasons the rod holders on one side of my boat contain fly rods, while the other side holds spinning gear. That way I am ready for the fish’s preference, not just mine.
While there is a place in sport fishing for tackle purists those of us who adapt our methods to the circumstances will fare far better in the long run. Until next time, start thinking light.
A New Paradigm
The sport fishing industry is witnessing a rather interesting phenomenon. We seem to be in the midst of a light tackle renaissance. Back about two decades ago, and paralleling the striped bass revival, sport fishing saw an explosion of interest in saltwater fly-fishing. More than ever before literal throngs of anglers took up the long rod. Many were freshwater trout converts motivated by the opportunity to hook larger and stronger fish than they were used catching. Others were seasoned surf and boat salts looking for a new way to entice fish to strike. And then there were the completely new entrants into the arena, beginning their fly-fishing journey in saltwater. For nearly twenty years that community of anglers grew to a point where it spawned a dynamic and full-service industry centered about fly-fishing. We now have more fly anglers among our ranks than ever before in the history of the sport, fueling guiding businesses, charter captains, equipment and clothing manufacturers, lodges, exotic destinations and much more. And this is all for good reason – fly-fishing is a very effective way to fish. At times, fly-fishing techniques will out perform other forms of angling. But several years ago something interesting began to happen. Fishing tackle retailers saw a spike in the number of light tackle outfits they were selling and a little research revealed that many of those of those buying spinning and conventional outfits were fly fisherman. Heresy you might say. Not I. Just the application of some common sense. There simply are times when one needs to be flexible in the approach to fishing if you want to maximize the opportunities. Admittedly, there are those die-hard anglers and guides among us who remain pure to the use of the fly. But the growing trend is to move more toward the middle and fish both fly and light tackle as conditions warrant. One very famous TV fishing personality is prone to say of his personal fishing, “Take what God gives you.” Simply put, give the fish what they want and how they want it.
Optimizing Opportunities
There are many examples of optimizing fly and light tackle gear but a couple of situations best illustrate my personal experiences. Much of my fishing takes place along the beaches of the north shore. In the spring when the sand launce swarm there is nothing I would rather have in my casting hand than a long rod rigged with my favorite sand eel pattern. This is truly a time of year when flies can out fish just about any other form of artificial lure and astonishingly, even bait. If all goes well I can get a solid month and a half of this sort of fishing with bass very close in range to the fly rod. A similar scenario plays out in the fall as well with migrating fish within east reach of the fly rod. But mid-summer can present some surf fly-fishing challenges unless a retreat is made to the cover of darkness. This is a time where and when light tackle comes to the rescue. Within the areas I fish bass and large bluefish set up along summer cruising and feeding lanes that are often more than two or three solid fly rod casts off the beach. Hard as I might try and regardless how efficient my casts are, my longest fly line is only 125 feet in length. That limits casting and catching potential. Fish do come in close but not with the frequency they remain out of fly rod range. A friend of mine often shares this stretch of beach with me, usually armed with a spinning outfit. He will most often put up better numbers on the scoreboard and will also usually have a better quality catch. I can still manage fish on the long wand but his ability to reach the outer edges of where the fish congregate and feed insures much better results. I too have now come to fish this location at this particular point in the season with light surf tackle. It is just a much more dependable way to fish.
Playing Both Ways
But there is a flip side to this story as well. As the summer progresses and small rain bait - like bay anchovies - make an appearance, the probability of encountering Atlantic bonito or false albacore along the beaches increases. While pelagic species can certainly be caught consistently from boat or beach with conventional plugs or lures, flies are the best way to imitate the micro baits that bones or albies are often keyed in on. Some days flies will totally out fish any other method. And the satisfaction of taking fish this way is tough to surpass. But here is where the plot thickens further. There are also times when game fish are so keyed in on such masses of diminutive bait that even the most anatomically correct fly goes unnoticed from among the real deal. Ay fly rodder who has spent time pursuing pelagics will attest to this very frustrating situation. The challenge here is to catch the attention of fish and cause them to react to an artificial bait. Many fly anglers will resort to larger or flashier flies when this selectivity occurs but I have found very light spinning gear gets the job done much more effectively. The reason: you can get a flashy plug or lure in front of the fish quicker and move it away faster than you can with a fly retrieve. That accelerated “fleeing” motion is more apt to trigger a reaction strike. It is for that reason that during the bonito and albies seasons the rod holders on one side of my boat contain fly rods, while the other side holds spinning gear. That way I am ready for the fish’s preference, not just mine.
While there is a place in sport fishing for tackle purists those of us who adapt our methods to the circumstances will fare far better in the long run. Until next time, start thinking light.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Winter Reading Assignment:Books for the Avid Angler
Along with the reality that winter and its long cold nights have settled in, I am sure there are already thoughts of the first fish of next spring, as our lives are governed by seasons. By now, boats have been winterized and rest quietly beneath a blanket of shrink wrap, and the beaches are devoid of all but the most of intrepid anglers wishing for a miraculous Christmas gift while our most cherished gamefish are sunning themselves in southern climes. Like most avid fishermen, I too am going through withdrawal pains and eagerly counting the days until aquatic life returns once again to our waters. While a trip or two to some tropical climate is in my future, I also enjoy staying in touch with the world of fishing through the printed word. There are a quite a number of terrific books on the market right now that can make for a nice interlude between the fall run and the spring renaissance. The following are some wonderful titles that are sure to whet the angling appetite of the most seasoned anglers as well as the winter armchair fishermen among us. At minimum, these books will certainly help ease the pains of angling withdrawal.
THE GIGANTIC BOOK OF FISHING STORIES
Nothing leads to more holiday boding between family and friends than sharing stories around a fireplace or dinner table. Stories have a way of enriching our lives, and fishing stories especially can add a measure of that to our own outdoor experiences. One of the best books to have come my way recently is The Gigantic Book of Fishing Stories (Skyhorse Publishing, Inc, 2007), edited and introduced by Nick Lyons and with a forward by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, author and historian, David Halberstam. And “gigantic” in this context is an understatement. The book is massive. By my count it contains 117 wonderful, well-written stories and essays by many of angling’s most notable authors and writers – past and present. The stories are well organized into seven parts and cover a very wide array of angling topics, enough to please even the most demanding and insatiable reader of angling literature. You will be busy many a night reading this book. It is surely destined to become a classic.
FLY FISHING FOR STRIPED BASS
Another outstanding volume that will sit nicely under the holiday tree is Fly Fishing for Striped Bass (Wild River Press, 2007), by Rich Murphy. Rich is a very accomplished striped bass angler and a master fly-tier. He has devoted much of his adult life to the pursuit of striped bass with a fly rod. While this book is written primarily for the fly angler its general content and descriptions of striped bass will be of interest and value to all readers, regardless of the methods they employ to catch their bass. The book contains an exquisite collection of photographs that are nothing short of striped bass angler eye candy. Some of the photographers for this book are Barry Beck, whose work appears frequently in many national fishing magazines, Tom Pero, David Skok and Dave Klausmeyer, among others. What impressed me most about the book is the quality of its usable content. The sections on fishing beaches, estuaries, rocks and flats contain information that is valuable to all anglers, not just fly fishermen. You cannot help but pick up a few pointers that will help put the angling odds in your favor. This title should be in the collection of all those who enjoy the pursuit of striped bass.
HOW TO CATCH THE BIGGEST TROUT OF YOUR LIFE
I’ll stick with Wild River Press for one additional recommendation, How to Catch the Biggest Trout of Your Life, by Landon Mayer. This book is a must for anyone who has ever dreamed of catching the trout of a lifetime. Landon has obviously achieved that goal on many occasions not only for himself but also for many of his guiding clients. He shares with the reader his techniques and secrets for catching large trout. Regardless of where you fish for trout, this book will give you the edge you need to catch the biggest trout of your life. The author is a full time fly fishing guide in Colorado who specializes in catching huge trout from hard-fished waters. He accomplishes that with a high degree of regularity as evidenced by the photographs of massive trout that grace the pages of this book. The book is well written and reads easily. I was hooked right from the foreword where the writer stated that he had just hooked a 16-pound brown trout from the same run he had hooked a 14-pound fish an hour earlier, and that he owed all this remarkable success to Landon Mayer. The author holds nothing back in this book and reveals all one needs to know about the habits of large trout and the methods necessary to catch them. I just may take this book to the river with me next time!
TAKE ME FISHING
Another winning title from Skyhorse Publishing (2007) is Take Me Fishing edited by John Bryan with an introduction by Howell Raines and a foreword by former United States President, Jimmy Carter. The book is a compilation of fabulous fishing stories and essays from 50 of the sport’s greatest writers. What is unique about this publication is that all of the writers donated their works to this book so that a portion of the proceeds from sales can be donated to the Fish America Foundation. That organization works to keep fish and waters healthy in all 50 states. Proceeds are also donated to the Future Fisherman Foundation, an enterprise that works to educate hundreds of thousands of new anglers each year. Some of the venerable anglers/writers whose work is contained in this volume are: Joan Salvato Wulff, Lefty Kreh, Lamar Underwood, William Tapply, Mark Sosin, George Reiger, Nick Lyons, Nelson Bryant, John Randolph, Steve Raymond and many more. You will be entertained! And buy purchasing a book you will also contribute to the future well being of the sport we all love.
TOP WATER
This next book is a personal favorite not only because of my love for fly fishing the waters of Alaska but because the authors are two remarkable anglers and writers. The book is, Top Water (The Countryman Press, 2004). The authors, Troy Letherman and Tony Weaver, take the reader on a remarkable fly fishing journey throughout Alaska, our nation’s last frontier. Through their experiences you will gain insight into Alaska steelhead, Chinook, sockeye, coho, chum and pink salmon, rainbow trout, arctic char and dolly varden, grayling and all of Alaska’s saltwater species. The combined fishing experiences of both Troy and Tony are quite impressive. Troy is the founding editor of Fish Alaska magazine, the state’s premier fishing publication. Troy’s writing is nothing short of high quality literature. He would certainly get my vote for Alaska’s poet laureate of fly fishing. Tony has been a guide, manufacturer’s representative, fishing industry consultant and life-long Alaska angler. Both writers demonstrate deep love for Alaska and its sport fish.
The book is a must for anyone who has either fished the Greatland or has ever dreamed of fishing there. It is very well written and reads like angling literature. This is the perfect book to read in front of a fireplace on a cold winter’s night.
LONG ISLAND’S BEST FRESHWATER FISHING
The second local book is Long Island’s Best Freshwater Fishing (OutdoorTom Publications, 2004) by Tom Schlichter. Tom has more than 40 years of fishing experience under his belt, with most of that know-how specific to the freshwaters of Long Island. If your interests include catching trout, largemouth bass and panfish from Long Island, this book is a must have. Tom will guide you to the most productive freshwater hotspots and explain how to catch our most coveted gamefish.
The Teacher
The final recommendation is not really a fishing book but rather a psychological thriller authored by Long Island fisherman and outdoor writer, Robert Banfelder. Bob is not only a very accomplished angler but also a very talented fiction writer, who manages to weave fishing tidbits into his compelling suspense novels. His book, The Teacher (Port Town Publishing, 2006) will have you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for what comes next. If you enjoy your reading on the scary side, then this is a book you should read on a dark and cold winter’s night. If you like being frightened, you won’t be disappointed. This is really a great read.
Personal Fly Fishing Favorites
Saltwater Flies of the Northeast is being acclaimed as one of the best and most thorough works on the subject. Included are over 400 patterns, many of which have evolved from existing patterns as part of the renaissance that saltwater fly fishing has experienced over the last decade or so. It is published by Frank Amato Publications (www.amatobooks.com).
Fly Fishing Long Island should be required reading for any Long Islander who practices the art, whether in freshwater or salt. It is an amazingly thorough guide that gives up numerous hotspots from Staten Island to Montauk. Another chapter covers baitfish and the best patterns to match the available forage. You’ll find this soft cover book filled with valuable insights into the fly fishing game, in addition to its extensive where-to coverage. It is published by The Countryman Press.
Along with the reality that winter and its long cold nights have settled in, I am sure there are already thoughts of the first fish of next spring, as our lives are governed by seasons. By now, boats have been winterized and rest quietly beneath a blanket of shrink wrap, and the beaches are devoid of all but the most of intrepid anglers wishing for a miraculous Christmas gift while our most cherished gamefish are sunning themselves in southern climes. Like most avid fishermen, I too am going through withdrawal pains and eagerly counting the days until aquatic life returns once again to our waters. While a trip or two to some tropical climate is in my future, I also enjoy staying in touch with the world of fishing through the printed word. There are a quite a number of terrific books on the market right now that can make for a nice interlude between the fall run and the spring renaissance. The following are some wonderful titles that are sure to whet the angling appetite of the most seasoned anglers as well as the winter armchair fishermen among us. At minimum, these books will certainly help ease the pains of angling withdrawal.
THE GIGANTIC BOOK OF FISHING STORIES
Nothing leads to more holiday boding between family and friends than sharing stories around a fireplace or dinner table. Stories have a way of enriching our lives, and fishing stories especially can add a measure of that to our own outdoor experiences. One of the best books to have come my way recently is The Gigantic Book of Fishing Stories (Skyhorse Publishing, Inc, 2007), edited and introduced by Nick Lyons and with a forward by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, author and historian, David Halberstam. And “gigantic” in this context is an understatement. The book is massive. By my count it contains 117 wonderful, well-written stories and essays by many of angling’s most notable authors and writers – past and present. The stories are well organized into seven parts and cover a very wide array of angling topics, enough to please even the most demanding and insatiable reader of angling literature. You will be busy many a night reading this book. It is surely destined to become a classic.
FLY FISHING FOR STRIPED BASS
Another outstanding volume that will sit nicely under the holiday tree is Fly Fishing for Striped Bass (Wild River Press, 2007), by Rich Murphy. Rich is a very accomplished striped bass angler and a master fly-tier. He has devoted much of his adult life to the pursuit of striped bass with a fly rod. While this book is written primarily for the fly angler its general content and descriptions of striped bass will be of interest and value to all readers, regardless of the methods they employ to catch their bass. The book contains an exquisite collection of photographs that are nothing short of striped bass angler eye candy. Some of the photographers for this book are Barry Beck, whose work appears frequently in many national fishing magazines, Tom Pero, David Skok and Dave Klausmeyer, among others. What impressed me most about the book is the quality of its usable content. The sections on fishing beaches, estuaries, rocks and flats contain information that is valuable to all anglers, not just fly fishermen. You cannot help but pick up a few pointers that will help put the angling odds in your favor. This title should be in the collection of all those who enjoy the pursuit of striped bass.
HOW TO CATCH THE BIGGEST TROUT OF YOUR LIFE
I’ll stick with Wild River Press for one additional recommendation, How to Catch the Biggest Trout of Your Life, by Landon Mayer. This book is a must for anyone who has ever dreamed of catching the trout of a lifetime. Landon has obviously achieved that goal on many occasions not only for himself but also for many of his guiding clients. He shares with the reader his techniques and secrets for catching large trout. Regardless of where you fish for trout, this book will give you the edge you need to catch the biggest trout of your life. The author is a full time fly fishing guide in Colorado who specializes in catching huge trout from hard-fished waters. He accomplishes that with a high degree of regularity as evidenced by the photographs of massive trout that grace the pages of this book. The book is well written and reads easily. I was hooked right from the foreword where the writer stated that he had just hooked a 16-pound brown trout from the same run he had hooked a 14-pound fish an hour earlier, and that he owed all this remarkable success to Landon Mayer. The author holds nothing back in this book and reveals all one needs to know about the habits of large trout and the methods necessary to catch them. I just may take this book to the river with me next time!
TAKE ME FISHING
Another winning title from Skyhorse Publishing (2007) is Take Me Fishing edited by John Bryan with an introduction by Howell Raines and a foreword by former United States President, Jimmy Carter. The book is a compilation of fabulous fishing stories and essays from 50 of the sport’s greatest writers. What is unique about this publication is that all of the writers donated their works to this book so that a portion of the proceeds from sales can be donated to the Fish America Foundation. That organization works to keep fish and waters healthy in all 50 states. Proceeds are also donated to the Future Fisherman Foundation, an enterprise that works to educate hundreds of thousands of new anglers each year. Some of the venerable anglers/writers whose work is contained in this volume are: Joan Salvato Wulff, Lefty Kreh, Lamar Underwood, William Tapply, Mark Sosin, George Reiger, Nick Lyons, Nelson Bryant, John Randolph, Steve Raymond and many more. You will be entertained! And buy purchasing a book you will also contribute to the future well being of the sport we all love.
TOP WATER
This next book is a personal favorite not only because of my love for fly fishing the waters of Alaska but because the authors are two remarkable anglers and writers. The book is, Top Water (The Countryman Press, 2004). The authors, Troy Letherman and Tony Weaver, take the reader on a remarkable fly fishing journey throughout Alaska, our nation’s last frontier. Through their experiences you will gain insight into Alaska steelhead, Chinook, sockeye, coho, chum and pink salmon, rainbow trout, arctic char and dolly varden, grayling and all of Alaska’s saltwater species. The combined fishing experiences of both Troy and Tony are quite impressive. Troy is the founding editor of Fish Alaska magazine, the state’s premier fishing publication. Troy’s writing is nothing short of high quality literature. He would certainly get my vote for Alaska’s poet laureate of fly fishing. Tony has been a guide, manufacturer’s representative, fishing industry consultant and life-long Alaska angler. Both writers demonstrate deep love for Alaska and its sport fish.
The book is a must for anyone who has either fished the Greatland or has ever dreamed of fishing there. It is very well written and reads like angling literature. This is the perfect book to read in front of a fireplace on a cold winter’s night.
LONG ISLAND’S BEST FRESHWATER FISHING
The second local book is Long Island’s Best Freshwater Fishing (OutdoorTom Publications, 2004) by Tom Schlichter. Tom has more than 40 years of fishing experience under his belt, with most of that know-how specific to the freshwaters of Long Island. If your interests include catching trout, largemouth bass and panfish from Long Island, this book is a must have. Tom will guide you to the most productive freshwater hotspots and explain how to catch our most coveted gamefish.
The Teacher
The final recommendation is not really a fishing book but rather a psychological thriller authored by Long Island fisherman and outdoor writer, Robert Banfelder. Bob is not only a very accomplished angler but also a very talented fiction writer, who manages to weave fishing tidbits into his compelling suspense novels. His book, The Teacher (Port Town Publishing, 2006) will have you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for what comes next. If you enjoy your reading on the scary side, then this is a book you should read on a dark and cold winter’s night. If you like being frightened, you won’t be disappointed. This is really a great read.
Personal Fly Fishing Favorites
Saltwater Flies of the Northeast is being acclaimed as one of the best and most thorough works on the subject. Included are over 400 patterns, many of which have evolved from existing patterns as part of the renaissance that saltwater fly fishing has experienced over the last decade or so. It is published by Frank Amato Publications (www.amatobooks.com).
Fly Fishing Long Island should be required reading for any Long Islander who practices the art, whether in freshwater or salt. It is an amazingly thorough guide that gives up numerous hotspots from Staten Island to Montauk. Another chapter covers baitfish and the best patterns to match the available forage. You’ll find this soft cover book filled with valuable insights into the fly fishing game, in addition to its extensive where-to coverage. It is published by The Countryman Press.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Fourth Quarter
This week’s local fly-fishing tracked closely to the performance of the financial markets and the economy – it moved south in a hurry, with a few signs of imminent promise. Reports were rather thin this from most sources since the very low temperatures kept many anglers off the water. The early part of the week did see some rather large schools of small bass off the north shore shoals but that action was primarily in very deep water…too deep for even the highest density sinking lines. And that action is now fading. Some large blues were mixed in with the bass. The north side beaches were - for the most part - very quiet, and for the first time this season nothing of note to report from the north shore harbors. Montauk was extremely quiet for the fly crowd but there was some success farther west down the south shore beaches. Yet, it is not all doom and gloom. Most of the general reports indicate there were numerous small bass dispersed throughout areas of the central and western beaches on south side of the Island. Some of those fish were right in the wash offering good shots with the fly rod. The stripers seemed to be traveling with schools of bunker and shad.
The final stages of the Long island season can prove a boon to fly anglers under one very special situation – the presence of herring. When herring make a showing striped bass – usually big ones - home in on this late season dietary preference and feed aggressively. The larger and more widespread the schools of herring, the more the bass will school in an attempt to maximize the consumption of this annual bounty. Some of the largest bass feeding binges of the season will occur at this time.
Fly fishermen eagerly await this potential bounty. When top water feeding blitzes are encountered they can often cover acres and the bass will readily hit flies. The stripers are most receptive to larger fly patterns at this time of year. Big white flies with flash fished on intermediate or sinking lines in and among the feeding bass will often times bring forceful strikes, resulting in some of the largest fish of the season.
The real opportunity of this fishing is that it often goes unnoticed since most fly anglers are not on the water at the time the herring appear. There is still time to give this fishing a try so keep an eye open for diving gannets that also enjoy the tasty herring. While herring will move though the Sound, the best bet for encountering this type fishing is off shore of the south shore beaches.
We have to look slightly to our south to see the week’s most consistent fly-fishing. Now more than ever during the remaining part of the season the most dependable action for the salty fly angler will be along the western reaches of the south shore and down through Staten Island, the New York Bight and all along the New Jersey beaches. It may be time to gather up a few of your fly fishing buddies and take a road trip to the Garden State.
The final stages of the Long island season can prove a boon to fly anglers under one very special situation – the presence of herring. When herring make a showing striped bass – usually big ones - home in on this late season dietary preference and feed aggressively. The larger and more widespread the schools of herring, the more the bass will school in an attempt to maximize the consumption of this annual bounty. Some of the largest bass feeding binges of the season will occur at this time.
Fly fishermen eagerly await this potential bounty. When top water feeding blitzes are encountered they can often cover acres and the bass will readily hit flies. The stripers are most receptive to larger fly patterns at this time of year. Big white flies with flash fished on intermediate or sinking lines in and among the feeding bass will often times bring forceful strikes, resulting in some of the largest fish of the season.
The real opportunity of this fishing is that it often goes unnoticed since most fly anglers are not on the water at the time the herring appear. There is still time to give this fishing a try so keep an eye open for diving gannets that also enjoy the tasty herring. While herring will move though the Sound, the best bet for encountering this type fishing is off shore of the south shore beaches.
We have to look slightly to our south to see the week’s most consistent fly-fishing. Now more than ever during the remaining part of the season the most dependable action for the salty fly angler will be along the western reaches of the south shore and down through Staten Island, the New York Bight and all along the New Jersey beaches. It may be time to gather up a few of your fly fishing buddies and take a road trip to the Garden State.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Fundamentals of Fly-Fishing the Surf
Fundamentals of Fly-Fishing the Surf
Join Angelo Peluso for a unique fly-fishing class. Instruction will take place at a beach location where the fundamentals of fly-fishing will be taught in an informal and conversational setting. The basic program is geared for the new or intermediate fly angler with customized sessions available for those anglers with more experience.
Topics covered will include:
*Casting
*Retrieves
*Line Selection
*Leaders/Knots
*Fly Selection
*Essential Gear
*Reading Water
*Elements of Structure
*Tactics for local game fish
Individual and group sessions (up to four participants) are available, and can be structured to meet any specific needs or interests. The full program runs three hours. Specialized hourly classes can also be arranged.
Individual Rates: Full 3-hour program: $195.00/ personalized one student class
$75.00 for customized hourly sessions
Group rates (two to four students): $160.00 per student/3-hour program
Classes can be scheduled throughout the year. Some light beach walking required for the full program.
Contact: SaltyFlyLIF@aol.com or
Apdotcominfo@aol.com
Join Angelo Peluso for a unique fly-fishing class. Instruction will take place at a beach location where the fundamentals of fly-fishing will be taught in an informal and conversational setting. The basic program is geared for the new or intermediate fly angler with customized sessions available for those anglers with more experience.
Topics covered will include:
*Casting
*Retrieves
*Line Selection
*Leaders/Knots
*Fly Selection
*Essential Gear
*Reading Water
*Elements of Structure
*Tactics for local game fish
Individual and group sessions (up to four participants) are available, and can be structured to meet any specific needs or interests. The full program runs three hours. Specialized hourly classes can also be arranged.
Individual Rates: Full 3-hour program: $195.00/ personalized one student class
$75.00 for customized hourly sessions
Group rates (two to four students): $160.00 per student/3-hour program
Classes can be scheduled throughout the year. Some light beach walking required for the full program.
Contact: SaltyFlyLIF@aol.com or
Apdotcominfo@aol.com
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Fly Fishing Around the Island
It’s a bit like singing the same old tune but Montauk again proved music the fly rodder’s ears this week. The fish, mostly bass, pushed anchovies close enough to the beaches and into the wash for great action with flies. The southside was inundated with bass in close and offshore albies, while the northside saw bass mixed in with hordes of ever-present bluefish. While most of the fish have been mid-sized bass there have been some huge stripers coming within range of the fly rod. A friend’s email to me stated, “At times it looked like the breaking waves contained 90% fish and 10% water!” It doesn’t get any better than that so now is the time to cash in on the action before the bulk of the schools move south. Actually, that has already begun to happen, as there have been quite a number of solid fly catches reported in the vicinity of Shinnecock and Moriches beaches. While the east end should continue to stay hot for a while longer - since fish are still being caught to our north - plying the beaches further south could yield impressive results in the coming days and less angling competition.
The flyrodders on the beaches of the Sound are singing an altogether different tune. The west end of north shore has been producing well with bass and bluefish as those fish stage to move further west into the NY Bight and out to the ocean for their annual trip south. The beaches of the east end from Southhold out to Orient have also been very active with fish, some days providing great fishing, others days a bust. Those fish are beginning to move around the horn to the south side and then down the south shore for their migration down the coast. But the central part of the Sound is quite lethargic at the moment. It’s a coin toss as to whether any meaningful run will still occur, with the exception of fish still in the harbors that will soon begin to move out. Some of those bass and blues will move east, while some will move west. The best advice right now is to move around and don’t stick to just one place waiting for the run to materialize. Take your fly rod on the road and go find the fish. As for the false albacore, nothing of any substance to report on the north shore. If anything, the sightings have been few and far between and no reported catches of merit.
I’ve received some emails about fly choices for this time of year and I’d like to pass along my response: “As far as flies go, the keys this time of year are the various baitfish that are moving long the beach: peanut bunker, mullet, spearing, sand eels, bay anchovies, butterfish, etc. Flies that imitate baitfish in size, profile and coloration will serve you well for most situations. In generic terms you can't go wrong with Epxoy Baitfish, Deceivers, Clousers, Half and Halfs, and an assortment of EP Flies. And mix up the fly lines as well from intermediate lines to high-density sink tips.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
