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Get a Grip: Achieving Superior Traction In & On the Water

Evan Garda
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Get a Grip: Achieving Superior Traction In & On the Water

Several years ago I had a major scare while out on a flooded Pennsylvania trout stream. After wading too far out for my own good, I slipped on a moss-covered boulder. Before I knew it, I was being swept downstream by the swift current. With great fortune, I managed to get ahold of an overhanging branch to pull myself ashore. Since that day, I haven’t stepped foot on the water without studded boots.

An icy Colorado morning made possible by studded boots

If you find yourself lucky enough to have rivers, streams, and lakes that aren’t frozen over during this time of the year, consider equipping your trusty wading boots with aftermarket cleats, studs, or bars for additional traction on your next wade. Wading boot studs, cleats, and bars are suitable in nearly all angling situations, aside from that shiny drift boat! Consider one of the options below if you ever find yourself out in the winter when the river is freezing from the bottom up, sneaking through slick moss-covered mountain streams, or scaling muddy river banks. A majority of these traction offerings will work on either felt or rubber-soled boots. Several companies make systems tailored specifically to their boot lineups but most have universal offerings.

Brands like Orvis, Goat Head Gear, Simms, Patagonia, and Korkers all produce high-quality studs, cleats, and bars. These brands offer a variety of products for $20-$80. In a matter of minutes, you can improve your traction on the water. Primarily tailored for wading boots with a thick sole (most recommend 1/2″ soles), several types will also work on your favorite pair of hiking shoes, boots, or sandals for wet wading in those warm summer months. This is not an exhaustive list of traction options for wading boots but provides great options across multiple price points.

Goat Head Gear 

1/2″ Goat Head Sole Spikes

Goat Head Gear, out of Utah, specializes in aftermarket footwear traction systems. Whether you are wading, ice fishing, or even running that stubborn cabin fever away this winter, Goat Head Gear has a solution for you. Goat Head Gear produces a variety of outdoor solutions that many anglers find helpful.

The core fishing offerings from Goat Head Gear are ½” and ⅜” Sole Spikes. The only difference between the two models being the length of the screw. The ½” Sole Spikes are specifically designed for traditional rubber or felt wading boots with thick soles.  The shorter ⅜” version is great for a variety of applications. Sandals, soft-soled sneakers, and removable soled wading boots (think Korkers) can all be stepped up with the ⅜” version. 15 minutes is all it takes to take your traction to the next level with the provided wrench. These are the cheapest offering on this list at $19.95 for 30 Sole Spikes in either thread size and can be purchased at Goat Head Gear.

See what Joe at Redd’s Fly Shop has to say about Goat Head Gear’s Sole Spikes. (Spike Review Begins at 2:12)

 

Orvis 

No stranger to any list involving fly gear, Orvis offers their tungsten carbide-tipped PosiGrip Screw-In Studs as a great traction solution. The made in America, Posi-Grip Screw-In Studs are compatible with any wading boot sole. While some of the other products in this review provide a wrench for installation, Orvis provides a ¼” hex adapter for power drills reducing the installation time to a matter of 2-3 minutes. Orvis offers their stud kit for the price of $32.95 for 24 studs (12 per boot). You can purchase the Orvis PosiGrip Screw-In Studs online or at your local Orvis store.

Simms 

As a powerhouse of wading equipment and outdoor protective gear, it is no surprise to see Simms with a quality lineup of traction systems. The following products are specifically designed to fit Vibram soles found on Simms RiverTread, StreamTread & VaporTread Platforms. First, the Simms Hard Bite Star Cleats have carbide chips welded to the stud for increased traction. If a softer, aluminum cleat is your preference, Simms has you covered. Simms also offers a softer AlumiBite Star Wading Cleat. This version excels in rocky environments with soft aluminum studs that conform to the mico-surfaces of rocks.

Simms HardBite Wading Cleat

Some users find the relatively flush mounting of the Simms cleats in relation to the sole to detract from the overall effectiveness. While the flush mounting can seemingly be problematic, the benefit lies in the fact that you won’t even know they are there! The Simms Hardbite Star Cleat and Simms AlumiBite Star Wading Cleats can be purchased directly from Simms or at your local fly shop. The HardBite Star Wading Cleats are $29.95 and the AlumiBite Star Wading Cleats come in at $21.95 for sets of 10. These two offerings are more expensive options on this list as you would need two sets to outfit your favorite boots.

See what the folks at Modern Fly Fisher have to say about the Simms cleats:

Patagonia 

A favorite of outdoor enthusiasts and fly fishers alike, Patagonia has multiple offerings for added wading boot traction. Designed specifically for Foot Tractor – Sticky Rubber Wading Boots and River Salt Wading Boots, the Patagonia Traction Stud Kit is a great option to consider.  This kit includes 26 studs with six-sided bite tips made of hardened steel for durability. Like the other offerings on the list, Patagonia provides a wrench for installation.  The Patagonia Traction Stud Kit can be purchased online or in stores for $39.00 and will fit all brands.

Patagonia Foot Tractor Aluminum Bar Replacement Kit

If you wear Patagonia’s Foot Tractor Wading Boots, you are likely familiar with the bars that came affixed to your boots. As Patagonia states, if you are ready to replace your bars, you must be doing a lot of fishing! Contrary to the carbide studs offered by most manufacturers that bite into rock, aluminum bars provide added grip due to the material being softer than rock, creating a “sticky” grip. Designed specifically for Foot Tractor soles, the Foot Tractor Aluminum Bar Replacement Kit is the no-nonsense choice for you. The kit includes 10 bars (6 large & 4 small). For $49.00 you can get like-new traction and add years of life on your favorite pair with the Foot Tractor Aluminum Bar Replacement Kit. 

Korkers

Korkers is maybe the best-known brand when it comes to traction systems for wading boots. The key offerings from Korkers, wading boots with interchangeable/replaceable soles, have every angler in mind. Korkers’ existing lineup of wading boots is all equipped with interchangeable soles in a variety of configurations.  Options include: felt and rubber soles, no studs, carbide studs, aluminum disc studs, and aluminum bars. Swapping out the soles is a breeze and can be completed in seconds. Korkers are by far the most versatile traction system on this list. 

Korkers Triple Threat Aluminium Sole

In addition to the pre-studded soles, Korkers offer their Trax systems which are essentially crampons to wear over other footwear. Korkers final traction offering includes replacement hardware for all of the soles allowing you to extend the life of your boots time and time again. Remember those fancy drift boats? Go ahead and throw on a pair of felt or rubber bottoms without studs for the day in just a few seconds. Replacement soles from Korkers start at $39.99 with all replacement hardware available for $29.99.

To see a breakdown of Korkers replacement soles check out this video from AvidMax:

 

Conclusion

Taking a spill is hardly fun in the warmer months, but can be outright dangerous in the winter. Be sure that you are taking the appropriate measures to stay safe out on the water this year. Keep in mind, most guided float trips will prohibit studded boots. Wading boot studs and bars are a relatively inexpensive means to achieving superior traction on the water and one that I highly recommend. Lastly, remember to monitor the health of your studs by checking for crisp edges at least once a season, advice I need to take myself. This will help ensure that you are putting your best foot forward.  Stay safe and stay upright!

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Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby Removes Striped Bass Category

Will Poston
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Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby Removes Striped Bass Category

Earlier this week, news broke that the historic Marthas’ Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby will remove all striped bass categories for this year’s contest. While striped bass continue to be overfished and subject to overfishing, and states like New Jersey and Maryland are actively undermining recovery efforts, the 75 year old tournament prioritizing the long-term conservation of these fish is refreshing.

In a press release, the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby Committee wrote:

“Recreational fishing communities and fisheries scientists understand the unequaled value of striped bass. The Derby shares this view, and acknowledges the importance of supporting measures to restore healthy striped bass stocks…Because of the obvious significance of striped bass – to the recreational fishing community and to the Derby – we strongly believe that the responsible decision is to completely remove it as an eligible species in the 2020 Derby, including any catch and release component…The Derby Committee is proud to have played an influential role in the recovery of the striped bass. When we excluded the striper from our tournament in 1985, it may have been only symbolic, but it sent a message to sportfishing contests and enthusiasts that without a good management plan, this treasured resource would be no more.”

 

Abbie Schuster of Kismet Outfitters, a fishing guide on Martha’s Vineyard, had this to say: “I am so glad the Derby is growing with the times and eliminating stripers from the competition. The Derby is a great Martha’s Vineyard tradition for all ages.  This will help ensure the next generation has opportunities to enjoy this amazing resource. The Derby should be leaders in this industry and I am glad they took a strong stance.” We agree, Abbie!

As someone who has fished the Derby, I commend the Derby Committee on this difficult, yet necessary and responsible, decision. Now, all one can hope for is other catch and kill striped bass tournaments to follow suit.

In other news, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission met yesterday about the upcoming Striped Bass regulations–be on the lookout for a article on what happened shortly!

Battenkill River to Receive Years of Improvements in New Project

The State of Striped Bass: Overfished and Subject to Overfishing

Fly Fishing Knots – How to Tie the Essentials

Collin Terchanik
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Fly Fishing Knots – How to Tie the Essentials

One of the most important pieces of knowledge in a fisherman’s arsenal is to know how to correctly tie knots. The knots we tie are what link us to the fish and ultimately our success.  Tying those half-ass knots will get you one of two things: broken off or a real crappy presentation. You will even sometimes find fishermen taking more time trying to tie a knot than actually fishing!

The more you do it, the tighter and faster you can make them. Learning knots can definitely be dull… However, once in your muscle memory, you will be able to pump them out like a guide. It just takes some discipline and practice. The following knots are standard ties that will help you get that perfect balance in your presentation and give you the confidence to land that trophy fish.   

Arbor

Albright

Nail Knot/Loop-to-Loop Knot

Blood Knot/Surgeon’s Knot

Clinch Knot

Tandem Rigs

Arbor Knot – Backing to reel

The Arbor Knot is fairly simple; however, most fishermen are usually rusty at it due to the few times we actually need to link backing to the reel or “arbor.”

Step 1: Wrap the backing around the arbor of the spool and tie a simple overhand knot with standing part of the tag end.

Step 2: Tie another overhand knot on the tag end you started with 3 inches from the first overhand knot.

Step 3: Pull on the standing part of the backing to slide the first overhand knot down to the arbor of the spool and the second overhand knot to jam against the first one.

Step 4:Trim the tag end adjacent to the spool.

Click here for animated Arbor knot Giff by Orvis



Albright Knot – Backing to fly line

The Albright Knot is used to join the line with different diameters. It is commonly used to join the fly line to the fly-reel backing. It is good at sliding through the guides when a fish pulls enough to reach your backing.

Step 1: Make a loop in the fly line and put about 10-12” of backing through the loop of the fly line.

Step 2: Hold the three sections of the line between your thumb and index finger. Wrap the backing over itself and both strands of the loop made with the fly line.

Step 3: Make 8-10 tight wraps with the backing. Feed the tag end back through the loop and exit the loop on the same side it entered.

Step 4: Hold both ends of the fly line and slide the wraps off the backing to the end of the loop of the fly line. Pull the backing to tighten and then cut the tag closet to the knot.

Click here for animated Albright knot Giff by Orvis



Nail Knot or Loop-to-Loop – Fly line to leader

The Nail Knot is crucial and best for joining two lines of different diameters. It allows a taper of the leader material down to the fly. The Loop-to-Loop is an alternate method that is easier and quicker for times that leaders need to be switched ASAP; however, it makes presentations less effective. It also involves the perfection loop.

Step 1 (Nail Knot): Place a small tube, nail, or of common function beneath the fly line and the butt end of the leader.

Step 2 (Nail Knot): Wrap the butt end of the leader approximately six times back toward the end of the fly line. Pass the butt end of the leader material either through the tube or through the loops you just made around the fly line and nail. After the butt end of the leader is through the tube, pull on the ends of the fly line and butt end simultaneously.

Step 3 (Nail Knot): Saturate the knot and tighten further by pulling both the fly line and butt end of the leader. Trim the excess off.

Step 1 (Loop-to-Loop): Make a loop at the of the leader by passing the tag end of the leader behind the standing line.

Step 2 (Loop-to-Loop):  Make a turn with the tag end of the leader around the standing line making a second loop. Hold it in place and make another turn from the tag end around the line, this time crossing between the two loops.

Step 3 (Loop-to-Loop): Hold the tag end of the leader in place and push the second loop you formed through the first loop you made.

Step 4 (Loop-to-Loop): Tug on the second loop until the knot is tight and then trim the tag.

Click here for animated Perfection Loop Giff by Orvis

Step 5 (Loop-to-Loop): If the fly line already has a loop premade at the end, you can now pass the loop on the line through the loop on the leader.

Step 6 (Loop-to-Loop): Pass the end of the leader through the loop on the end of the fly line.

Step 7 (Loop-to-Loop): Pull the line and the leader away from each other, until the loops slide together to form what looks like a square knot.

Click here for animated Loop-to-Loop Giff by Orvis

Blood Knot or Surgeon’s Knot – For leader-to-tippet connections

The  Blood Knot seems to be everyone’s arch-nemeses… Definitely one of the more difficult knots, but is strong and reliable for linking two pieces of similar diameter lines. If you find yourself in a position of needing a quick line setup conversion with an outrageous bug hatch going off, the surgeon’s knot will get the job done faster, but won’t be as strong of a knot.

Step 1 (Blood Knot): Overlap the ends of the tippet and leader.

Step 2 (Blood Knot): Twist one around the other making about five turns. Bring the tag end of the tippet back between the leader and the tippet.

Step 3 (Blood Knot): Repeat the steps for the leader tag end, wrapping it in the opposite direction.

Step 4 (Blood Knot): Saturate the knot and pull the leader and tippet in opposite directions.

Step 5 (Blood Knot): Clip the tag ends close to the knot. 

Click here for animated Blood knot Giff by Orvis

Step 1 (Surgeon’s Knot): Lay the two pieces of line parallel to one another overlapping each other by 3-4 inches.

Step 2 (Surgeon’s Knot): Form a loop with both pieces of line.

Step 3 (Surgeon’s Knot): Pass the tag end and leader through the loop two times.

Step 4 (Surgeon’s Knot): Saturate the knot and tighten it by pulling the four pieces of line.

Click here for animated Surgeon’s knot Giff by Orvis



Clinch Knot – For tippet to flies

The Clinch knot is probably something all fishermen know… If not, then this is the first knot you need to learn before stepping anywhere near water. 

Step 1: Put the tippet through the eye of the hook and bend it back towards the running line.

Step 2: Make 5-7 wraps around the running portion of the line.

Step 3: Take the tag end of the tippet back towards the hook and thread it through the loop closest to the hook. Saturate the line and tighten it.

Click here for animated Clinch knot Giff by Orvis



Eye to eye or Hook to eye – For tandem rigs

There are more than two ways of doing this. Some more efficient than others, but the eye-to-eye and hook-to-eye are the easiest to learn and can still get fish in the net.

The first tandem setup is the most common rig of all. The hook-to-eye is easy to understand and simple to tie. For this setup, you will rig up your leader and tippet as if you are going to fish with just one fly. Next, tie a Clinch knot on the hook of the top fly and run 8-12” to the dropper fly. This rig might be easy but is the least productive due to the higher knot breakage and potential to miss hookups due to the tippet covering part of the hook bend on the point fly.

The second tandem is a little more productive. For the eye-to-eye rig you just attach a section of tippet material to the eye of the hook on the point fly. Then to the end of this, you will attach your dropper. It’s simple to set up and easier to cast; however, the more line built upon the point fly (two knots) can steer fish away.

Image result for tandem fly rig"
Photo by Charles Meck

Now that you have these down, remember to always check your knots and give them a solid check before casting. We can all agree that losing a fish and your fly due to poorly tied knots can be one of the most frustrating things ever. So make those knots tight and get on the water. 

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How to Tie: Svend’s Cray Cray Fly

Wills Donaldson
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How to Tie: Svend’s Cray Cray Fly

In this week’s How to Tie video feature, our friend Svend Diesel is here with an original creation of his. Enjoy as he shows us how to tie Svend’s Cray Cray fly.

Learn About This Fly:

Difficulty: Intermediate

When fishing small streams or raging rivers, the crayfish pattern is one of the most effective flies one can fish in targeting large trout or bass. Through a year of development, Svend has adjusted the traditional crayfish fly pattern in order to create a highly fishable, and highly durable representation.

Some special features that make this fly so effective are the weighted bottom, and the mono wrapping over the tail. By adding a weighted section at the end of the tail, this fly will always land in “attack position”. This means that as fish watch this fly sink, it will deliver a much more lifelike presentation as if it is being defensive of lurking predators. This also allows for a much more realistic looking dash as one jig retrieves this fly across the bottom. With the monofilament wrapping over the tail, this fly gains a much more durable make-up, thus greatly prolonging its longevity.

When tying this fly, it is easy to become intimidated by the many things going on at once. However, with a few potato chip or hair clips, Svend’s instructions are very easy to follow along with. Soon enough, you’ll be cranking out cray crays faster than you can catch fish with them. Note, the color of this fly is certainly one to be played with. By changing to an olive, brown, or even purple color scheme, you can figure out which variation fishes your local stream best.

Ingredients:

  • Hook: Ahrexhooks TP650 26 degree hook
  • Thread: Semperfli waxed thread 8/0
  • Hackle: Whitingfarms American Hackle Rooster Orange grizzly Large
  • Antenna: hareline dubbin Grizzly legs
  • Antennule/Legs: Voodoo Fibers
  • Claws/Body: Rabbit strips
  • Shell/Tail fin: Tab rubber legs
  • Ribbing of Abdomen: 20-30 lb mono
  • Shell: Semperfli no tack UV resin

 

Now you know how to tie Svend’s Cray Cray Fly!

Video and Ingredients courtesy of Svendiesel

How to Tie: The Muddler Minnow

How to Tie: The Velcro Crab

How to Tie: Svend’s Turkey Fly

Salmon Recipes: Five Different Ways to Eat Sockeye Salmon

Tia Kelliher
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Salmon Recipes: Five Different Ways to Eat Sockeye Salmon

Not only are salmon fun to catch, but they are also quite tasty. The following recipes give a glimpse into what can be done with Sockeye salmon. From chowder to dip, one can make a delicious meal or a mouth-watering party appetizer. Salmon are also filled with nutrients such as vitamin B, potassium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Next time you get out on the water to do some salmon fishing be sure to bring one home (or grab some wild-caught salmon from your local grocery store) and try out a new recipe!

Salmon Recipe

Pastry Wrapped Salmon

That salmon that is stacked up in your freezer or freshly caught can easily be made into Pastry Wrapped Salmon. This scrumptious recipe will be sure to delight any friends or family with its easy yet elegant presentation.

12 servings

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup chopped onions

1 salmon fillet (about 3 lbs) – trimmed to measure 5×14 inches, skin & pin bones removed

1 package (17.3 oz) puff pastry sheets, thawed

1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or season salt/spices of choice)

1 egg, beaten

Heat oven to 400 degrees

Salmon Recipe

On a floured surface, press short sides of the pastry together to form a rectangle. With a rolling pin, roll to an 11”x 15” rectangle. Transfer pastry to a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Add olive oil and spread breadcrumbs (and/or spices) down the center of pastry. Lay the salmon on top. Cut pastry on either side of fish into 1” wide strips.

Salmon Recipe

Fold the strips over salmon and twist them together, sealing in the center. (another option is to bring the sides together uncut & shape like a fish) Whisk together egg & 1 tbsp water – brush onto the pastry. Bake 25 minutes or until fish flakes when poked.

Salmon Nuggets

Do you have kids or significant others that are picky eaters? One can never go wrong with nuggets. This recipe works great for salmon, pike, halibut, and more.

1 salmon fillet (about 3 lbs)

¾ cup seasoned bread crumbs

1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese

add pepper to taste

1/3 cup margarine, melted

Heat oven to 400. Line cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick oil spray (or grease baking sheet). Mix bread crumbs, Parmesan, & pepper in the dish. Cut salmon fillet into 1 ½ inch square pieces. Dip in melted butter and then roll in bread crumb mixture and place on cookie sheet. Bake 15-20 minutes or till golden brown. Serve with honey mustard, tartar sauce, or barbecue sauce.

Seattle Style Salmon Chowder

The perfect meal for a chilly fall day out on the water. Fill a thermos up with this homemade salmon chowder that will be sure to warm you up between casts. 

3 tbsp butter

1 leek, sliced

2 stalks celery, sliced

4 cloves of garlic, minced

2 medium Russet potatoes, diced

1/2 tsp fennel seeds, lightly crushed

1 bay Leaf

1 tsp dried parsley

1 tsp dried dill

2 tbsp capers with brine

1 tbsp tomato paste

4 cups seafood/chicken stock

1/2 cup cream cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 lb salmon, cut in chunks

Salt & Pepper, to taste

  1. Melt butter in a big pot on medium-high.
  2. Add the sliced leeks and saute for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
  3. Add minced garlic and saute for another minute.
  4. Add the sliced celery, lightly crushed fennel seeds, dried parsley, dried dill, the bay leaf, salt & pepper to taste, tomato paste the capers with brine & diced potatoes and stir it all well.
  5. Add the seafood stock or chicken stock and mix everything together.
  6. Bring the soup to a boil, then cover and lower heat to a simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  7. Once tender, use a potato masher to mash up some of the potatoes gently. You don’t want them all mashed…just a few to thicken the soup.
  8. Add 1/2 a cup of cream cheese and stir it well into the soup.
  9. Add the chunks of salmon, cover and allow them to cook for 3-5 minutes
  10. Add a cup of heavy cream and stir it gently.
  11. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  12. Lastly, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and switch off the heat.

Recipe from http://picturetherecipe.com/recipes/salmon-chowder-with-leeks-potatoes/

Teriyaki Salmon

This delicious recipe can be made with a grill, oven, or even a fire. If you find yourself camping after a full day of fishing, wrap the Teriyaki Salmon in tin foil and place it in your fire where there are not too many flames. 

1 salmon fillet (about 3 lbs)

½ cup honey

½ cup Teriyaki sauce

½ cup orange juice or 1 orange

1 clove garlic (crushed)

1/4 onion, cut into rings

Mix honey, Teriyaki sauce, orange juice, and garlic together in a large dish. Marinate the salmon for a minimum of ½ hour in the mixture, then broil for 10 – 15 minutes. Top with 4 tablespoons butter.

Simple Salmon Dip

If you don’t have much time but need to make a dish for a party or even for lunch, the Simple Salmon Dip is as easy as it sounds! It is quite versatile and you can add in hot sauce, chives, cream cheese, teriyaki sauce, and anything else. 

1 can (15 oz) of salmon

1/2 cup Miracle Whip

1/4 cup relish

salmon

Mix all ingredients together and add pepper and spices to taste. Serve with crackers or bread. If you want to add something fancy to this simple dip, garnish with shredded cheese or parsley.

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Battenkill River to Receive Years of Improvements in New Project

Dan Zazworsky
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Battenkill River to Receive Years of Improvements in New Project

Featured image from Trout Unlimited

Trout Unlimited (TU) just announced that the revered Batten Kill River Watershed will be receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars of trout habitat improvement over the next 2 years as a part of TU’s “Homewaters Initiative.”

Thanks to phenomenal fundraising efforts by local TU chapters, TU has hired a project manager to oversee the upcoming projects designed to improve habitat in the river for wild trout. Local stakeholders and TU believe that the improvements will bring more anglers to the watershed in the future, but more importantly, the project will stabilize the riverbanks and channelize the river to improve flows and prevent flooding.

According to the Post Star, “The project coordinator, Jacob Fetterman, will oversee a Trout Unlimited ‘Home Rivers Initiative’ project on the Batten Kill in 2020 and 2021 that will build on recent years of work by volunteers, as well as New York and Vermont fisheries biologists, to counteract a decline in trout numbers.”

To read more about the project details, check out this article from the Post Star, or read the project announcement from Trout Unlimited!

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Turneffe Atoll Trust Permanently Protects 17,000 Acres

Dan Zazworsky
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Turneffe Atoll Trust Permanently Protects 17,000 Acres

Featured image from Turneffe Flats Resort

There is nothing better than seeing a group of individuals and stakeholders come together to protect a fishery. Turneffe Atoll is located about 30 miles off the coast of Belize and is home to one of the most bio-diverse reefs in the Caribbean, and now, 17,000 acres of the atoll will be permanently protected thanks to the Turneffe Atoll Trust!

From Turneffe Atoll Trust:

Turneffe Atoll Trust, a registered non-governmental organization focused on environmental conservation, has acquired some 17,000 acres of National Land at Belize’s Turneffe Atoll to be conserved in perpetuity through the establishment of the Turneffe Land Trust, announced Craig Hayes, Board Chairman of Turneffe Atoll Trust.

As Trustee, Turneffe Atoll Trust is charged with safeguarding this property and maintaining its biological and socio-economic advantages for the beneficial owners of the Trust, the Government, and the People of Belize.

While private land at Turneffe will not be directly affected, the Land Trust will effectively prohibit the development of a large portion of the atoll. The land acquisition ensures protection of the atoll’s fragile mangroves and wetlands including essential habitats for fish, birds and other wildlife, including the endangered West Indian Manatee and the threatened American Crocodile.

Established in 2002, Turneffe Atoll Trust (TAT) has advocated for the protection and sustainable management of Turneffe Atoll and similar coastal marine habitats. As TAT Executive Director Alex Anderson, notes, “the establishment of a Land Trust has been a TAT goal for more than a decade.”

In announcing the historic agreement, Hayes commended the efforts of Belizean Ministers Omar Figueroa and Hugo Patt for their “wisdom and foresight” in moving this project forward, noting, “This effort would not have been possible without their leadership.”

Approximately 30 miles off the mainland, Turneffe Atoll is the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean. Its environmental assets provide major economic benefits for Belize, estimated at more than 500 million dollars annually. Economic benefits for Belize include the atoll’s protection of Central Belize, including Belize City, from storm damage, its blue carbon value, its contribution as a major commercial fishery and its substantial tourism value.

Funds for the project were raised by Turneffe Atoll Trust through donations from individuals, foundations and Turneffe Flats Resort.

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April Vokey’s 3 Tips for Improving your Spey Cast

Flylords
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April Vokey’s 3 Tips for Improving your Spey Cast

Spey casting is a method of fly fishing used to create longer casts without the overhead backcast. It is popular for salmon, steelhead and now many over species of fish around the world. Flylords caught up with April Vokey, who is an accomplished spey caster and instructor to discuss three tips for every angler to improve their spey casting techniques.

Photo: @flyfishingnation

TIP #1). Creep.

Wrap your head around the concept of both creep and drift (creep is as bad as it sounds, whereas drift is good and necessary for distance). All too often I see casters creep (both on single and double-hand rods), prematurely jolting the rod forward during the backcast while their rod is still loading. This causes a chain of errors (tailed loops, lost distance, popped anchors, inconsistency… to name but a few).

It’s important to remember that during the Spey cast the rod should be under constant tension (once the anchor is set). The creep does the opposite of that. 

***This is as good a time as any to also familiarize yourself with the “circle up”.  Cut corners and sharp, straight movements are enough to make any instructor or guide dive for cover. 

Photo: Courtney Morris (@sculpinarmy)

Tip #2). Once you go up, you may never come back down. 

Let’s focus specifically on waterborne anchors (like the Snap-T and Double Spey).  Once you have set your anchor, it is ideal to bring your rod tip back down to the water before beginning the sweep (I stand beside students/clients and smack their rod tips back to the water until this becomes habitual for them). From here, there is ample room to travel upward on a circular motion (sweep), winding up (circle up), creating a back-cast (D-Loop), before the final delivery on a straight-line path forward. During this series of events, the rod should only ever be traveling upward.  Envision a wine opener or corkscrew pasta. 

  • Starting the sweep too high means that, by the time you’ve drawn your D-Loop, your hands will be too high to have any sort of help from your core (plus, you’ll often pop your anchor, or drop your rod tip too far behind you). 
  • Dipping the rod down during the sweep or D-Loop can crash your line to the water, therefore sticking it to the water’s surface.  Watch to ensure you’re not over-rotating your body.  Many times the shoulder dips down and the rod follows suit.
  • I believe one of the most overlooked motions in the Spey cast lays in the elbows. How much you need to lift your elbows depends on line length, personal style, and several other variables… Many people do it and can get away with it while Skagit casting due to the short line (self-included at one point in time), but it’s a good idea to get in the habit of lifting your elbows into a drift (back and up) as soon as possible. Shortline, short drift — long line, long drift… you get the drift.
Photo: Courtney Morris (@sculpinarmy)

TIP #3). Bloody L.

How in the Bloody L are there still casters out there who don’t know what this is!? Of all the first-world things that make me want to pull my hair out, this is at the top of the list. The Bloody L is a common Spey casting error in which the D-Loop fails to align the anchor parallel to the forward cast; the name derives from the typical layout of the line in an “L” shape on the water (in front of the angler) when this occurs.  The result is a forward cast that lacks the energy to roll over properly. This is typically caused by setting the anchor in an improper position prior to the sweep, or an incomplete or shortened sweep which fails to carry enough energy into the D-Loop. 

It can also be introduced by the other two culprits I’ve listed above: cutting corners from sweep to D-Loop (essentially drawing an “L” with your rod tip), as well as dipping your rod during the sweep, therefore encouraging the line to stick to the water (which causes a bunch of problems that basically only set the caster up to smack themselves with the fly, and that’s if they clear the water at all).

For more from April be sure to check out her podcast and Instagram @aprilvokey

Feature photo of April casting from @flyfishingnation.

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Fly Fishing Destination Video of the Week: Low and Clear

Wills Donaldson
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Fly Fishing Destination Video of the Week: Low and Clear

For this week’s Fly Fishing Destination Video of the Week, Snag Films brings us a beautiful feature-length masterpiece that explores what it truly means to be a dedicated angler. This film explores the juxtaposition between the fly fishing mentalities, one of which being to perfect technique and treat each cast as if it is the brushstroke of a disciplined artist, and the other focusing on enjoying the simplicity of catching fish and enjoying the rush that comes along with having a beautiful beast on the end of your line. Enjoy as J. T. Van Zandt and Alex “Xenie” Hall bring us through British Columbia in their attempt to crack open the philosophy that defines what it really means to be a fly fisherman.

Tune in every Saturday for a new installment of Fly Fishing Destination Videos and make sure to sign up for our newsletter below in order to keep up with new content published daily.

Video courtesy of Snag Films 

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Top Fly Fishing Rod Holders and Holsters

Grant Michaels
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Top Fly Fishing Rod Holders and Holsters

As the sport of fly fishing continually evolves, we as anglers constantly find ourselves on the hunt for products that will improve our time on the water. Large and small fly fishing companies have bridged the gap with innovations in rod storing technology. Rod holding technology provides anglers ease and accessibility while changing flies or holding multiple rods at a time. In the following list, we at Flylords highlight the top game-changing rod holders bringing new life to the fly fishing industry.

O’Pros 3rd Hand Rod Holder

Whether changing flies, adding tippet, untangling messes, or unhooking fish, anglers across the globe can reflect on a time where having an additional hand would have been useful. The Outdoor Professionals (O’Pros) innovated their solution to this pressing issue with the creation of the 3rd Hand Rod Holder. The creators of the Original Dragonfly rod holder crafted a new and improved design featuring various new additions providing confidence in situations when an extra hand is needed the most. 

O'Pros Rod Holder

Made in the USA, the 3rd Hand Rod Holder features 360 degrees of rotation allowing anglers to position their rod to suit any situation while out on the water. The elastic cord with an adjustable tensioner and cord hooks provides anglers with more security when locking their rod into the rod holder. Quick access hooks were redesigned to securely hold any standard cork handle on the market. The easy to attach belt clip holders give provide the ability to attach to any two-inch or one-inch belt strap. This rod holder the first and only fully adjustable belt clip rod holder in the fly fishing industry. 

Perfect for Photo Ops

The O’Pros 3rd Hand Rod Holder fits the novice, intermediate, or advanced angler. You can never worry again about not having enough hands while out on the water. 

Fishpond Quickshot 2.0 Rod Holder

Fishpond describes their Quickshot 2.0 Rod Holder as “the closest thing to having a full-time rod caddie on the water with you.” This innovative design ensures that your rods will be held securely and completely out of your way while fishing. The Quickshot 2.0 is the new and improved version of Fishpond’s original Quickshot rod holder.

Fishpond Quickshot

The Quickshot 2.0 features an improved back attachment capable of attaching to Fishpond packs and backpacks. Issues with the original magnetic release led to the innovation of the side release buckle providing a much stronger hold on your weapon of choice. The webbing loop coated with polytube holds the standard butt of any fly rod. The quick-release rod holding buckle creates ease when releasing your rod. The adjustable back attachment attaches to the secure molded tabs which can be found on most Fishpond wading belts.

Stream side Quickshot 2.0

This versatile rod holder is compatible with the Thunderhead Submersible Backpack, Sling, Lumbar Pack, Cutbank Bag, and the Windriver Roll-top backpack. The Quickshot 2.0 is compatible with all Fishpond packs created in 2018 or newer. The Quickshot 2.0 Rod Holder is an excellent option for your next fishing excursion.

Vedavoo Rod Holster

Bulky equipment can tend to get in the way during long days on the water. Vedavoo Gear took a very minimal but useful approach to the rod holder/holster game. Voted the Best of Grey’s Fly Fishing Accessory in 2017, this rod holster comes in at a whopping 2 ounces making this one of the lightest rod holding accessories on the market.

Vedavoo Rod Holster

The Vedavoo Rod Holster is made up of an 18-ounce Raft Vinyl Topsheet and the backer contains repurposed vinyl from Water Master Rafts. This product features a welded loop for rod butts and a buckle strap that clips over the cork handle for optimum security. The minimal design eliminates the stress of line snags. The easy sliding straps fit most if not all wading belts on the market. The buckle strap allows your rod to pivot keeping your second rod out of your way while casting.

Vedavoo Rod Holster

The Vedavoo Rod holster will fancy all fishermen from gear junkies to minimalists. This streamline design should definitely be in your top rod holder considerations.

Smith Creek Rod Clip

Rod holders and holsters are known for attaching to wading belts but that is not always the case. The Smith Creek Rod Clip attaches directly to your vest, pack, jacket, or wader strap. The rod clip instantly struck popularity when named the IFTD best accessory in 2012. The innovative and unobtrusive design will keep your rod and reel out of the water and muck at all times.

Wayne and Dylan Smith of Smith Creek New Zealand
Image Courtesy of Wayne and Dylan Smith of Smith Creek New Zealand

Constructed out of anodized aluminum as well as UV-resistant fabric, this rod clip assures desirable longevity. Connected to a retractable zinger, this rod holder is capable of connecting to your area of choice. Whether re-rigging, posing for a photo, or just taking a break, this rod clip has you covered.

Wayne Smith of Smith Creek New Zealand
Image Courtesy of Wayne and Dylan Smith of Smith Creek New Zealand

It is without question, anglers who choose the Smith Creek Rod Clip will never worry if their rod is secure. Definitely a viable option when considering additions to your gear collection.

In closing, hands-free accessibility can be very useful for all types of anglers in the fly fishing community. While there are various styles and brands, all of these rod holders, clips, and holsters address the same idea. Depending on your personal preference, you can fish with confidence knowing that you have an additional hand when needed. Now, grab a rod or two, slap a rod holder on your belt or vest, and hit the water.

Written by Grant Michaels

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