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How To Tie: The Royal Wulff

Wills Donaldson
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How To Tie: The Royal Wulff

This fly can be found in almost any fly shop around the world, but is far from “generic”. In this week’s “How To Tie” video, Tim Flager from Tightline Video is back to show us how to tie the Royal Wulff.

Learn About This Fly

The Royal Wulff is an iconic dry fly pattern that can be dated back to the early 1900’s, and has made a name for its debut. Being derived from the Royal Coachman pattern, this fly was modified in order to withstand the rough water of western rivers. While no one can be truly certain for who is originally responsible for this modification, credit often lies with an angler named Lee Wulff.

In the ’30s, Mr. Wulff and a western conservationist by the name of Dan Bailey collaborated on the names of their new hair wing patterns, and eventually produced the line of flies that would be known as the “Wulff” fly. (Grey Wulff, White Wulff, Black Wulff, Royal Wulff, etc.) Since their creation, the Wulff pattern has been a staple to dry fly fishing and is constantly hailed by some anglers, including iconic fly fishing author John Gierach, as one of the most important flies in the sport.

This fly is what is called an attractor pattern, and does not imitate any specific insect. Instead, it is used to draw fish to the surface by offering bright colors, and enticing mayfly like appeal.

Ingredients:

  • Dry Fly Hook (size 10-18)
  • Black tying thread (70 Denier)
  • Red tying thread (70 Denier)
  • White Calf body hair (cleaned and stacked)
  • Zap-A-Gap adhesive
  • Natural Moose Body hair
  • Peacock herl
  • Coachman Brown Hackle

Now you know how to tie the Royal Wulff!

 

Video courtesy of Tim Flager from Tightline Video 

Article written by Flylords Team Member Wills Donaldson 

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/13/how-to-tie-green-caddis-larva/

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/30/how-to-tie-the-parachute-trico/

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/06/how-to-tie-the-frenchie-egans-frenchie/

Faces of Fly Fishing: Charlie Blackmon or “Chuck Nazty”

Patrick Perry
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Faces of Fly Fishing: Charlie Blackmon or “Chuck Nazty”

Flylords caught up with Major League Baseball player Charlie Blackmon or “Chuck Nazty”. Charlie is the center fielder for the Colorado Rockies and absolute machine of a leadoff batter in the MLB. Blackmon is a four-time MLB All-Star, a 2 time Silver Slugger Award winner and the 2017 National League batting champion. He is keeping pace right now as a  contender for another NL batting title in 2019. We caught up with Chuck Nazty to learn more about baseball, fly fishing, and life off the field.

Flylords: Who is Chuck Nazty?

Charlie: It is my on-field baseball persona.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Where did nickname the “Chuck Nazty” come from?

Charlie: A couple of years I got the nickname when I told someone in an interview to just call me Chuck Nasty with a “Z”. From there it just sort of stuck. Had I known it would have followed me around like this, I probably would have put more thought into it.

Flylords: Will there ever be a beardless Chuk Nasty playing in the MLB?

Charlie: No I don’t think so I’m pretty locked in on the look. I think I’ll rock the beard as long as I’m playing ball.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Where did the fly fishing journey begin?

Charlie: I grew up like most kids just spin fishing. Didn’t really get into fly fishing until a couple of years ago in Colorado Springs on the South Platte. Through social media, I got to know Tanner Smith and Ivan Orsic. They took me out to learn some of the local water in and around Denver. I’ve become friends with them and we try to get out and fish whenever we can.

Flylords: Tell us about the Tarpon you caught this offseason?

Charlie:  Last offseason my wife and I went on a “Honeymoon” trip down to El Pescador Lodge in Belize. We were fishing with a guide on a skiff and had caught some bonefish that morning and were out looking for Tarpon. I was standing on the front of the skiff and somehow I spotted a fish at 12 o’clock (I never spot fish). Since I couldn’t make a back cast without hitting the guide I threw a backhand cast and rolled it out in front of the tarpon. I twitched it once and the fish just hammered it. After a 35-minute fight and some tangles near the boat trying to land it, I finally got the tarpon in. It was unreal. Saltwater fishing is like streamer fishing on steroids.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Any fishing trips planned this offseason?

Charlie: Once the baseball season is over I’ll head down to the San Juan River in New Mexico for a float trip. I also want to do another saltwater fishing trip.

Photo: Matt Dirksen

Flylords: Do any other guys on the Rockies enjoy getting out on the water to fly fish?

Charlie: Not like I do. We did a group trip out on the South Platte last year. Everyone enjoyed it a lot and caught fish. But no one really likes fly fishing as I do, most of the guys spend the weekends golfing.

Flylords: Alright we know we you’ve hit some grand slams in the MLB, have you ever caught a Grand Slam out on the water (Salt or Fresh Water)?

Charlie: When I was in Belize earlier this year I got very close. We had caught some bonefish in the morning and landed that tarpon I talked about earlier. So we spent the rest of the day looking for permit. The guide spotted a school of permit and at that point, I felt pretty comfortable casting so I made a cast leading the fish 8-10 feet. The fish went right over the fly, looked at it and never ate it. So I came very close but never got the permit to complete the slam. So now all I can think about is getting that Permit to complete the slam.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Any similarities to fly fishing and batting?

Charlie: I do think there are a couple of things in common, the biggest is being calm under pressure. As a professional athlete, you have to understand how to perform under pressure. This definitely comes into play when you’re up at the plate, everyone is watching and you have to perform. It is really similar to when your fishing specifically saltwater fly fishing. Standing up on the front of a skiff when you sight a fish, you have to be calm and collected to deliver a good cast and presentation. Typically, you won’t get another clean shot at the fish.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Another similarity is being observant. In between pitches when I’m at-bat I’m trying to look for things that will tip me off on what might be coming next. What pitch he’s going to throw and when. Same goes for fly fishing, when I’m out on the river I’m observing all the different bugs hatching, how the fish are feeding, where they are feeding. It all comes into play when trying to catch fish. It’s the unpredictable things you can sort of figure it out. And really that’s what makes both so enjoyable.

Flylords: Home River?

Charlie: Here in Colorado, I’d say Deckers on the South Platte. But back in Atlanta where I’m from its the Chattahoochee, River.

Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Favorite on river snack? 

Charlie: Cliff Bar and Peel Orange
Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Streamer or Dry Fly? 

Charlie: Dry Fly
Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: Favorite baseball team and player growing up? 

Charlie:  I’m from Atlanta so the Atlanta Braves. I really enjoyed watching Greg Maddux and Fred Mcgriff.
Photo: Ivan Orsic

Flylords: One species you want to catch on a fly rod?

Definitely a permit. I had some chance but never made the connection. So definitely want to land one. But I hear for some people it takes years so we will see. I also think Golden Dorado would be cool but not too interested in traveling to all those exotic jungle destinations where I could get some sick from some unknown disease.

Be sure to follow along with Charlie on Instagram at @chuck_nazty.

Photos from Ivan Orsic at Trouts Fly Fishing.

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/16/faces-of-fly-fishing-tanner-smith/

https://theflylords.com/2018/07/12/faces-of-fly-fishing-jeremy-wade/

 

 

Scientific Anglers Releases New 2020 Product List

Dan Zazworsky
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Scientific Anglers Releases New 2020 Product List

From Scientific Anglers:

We’re excited to announce our NEW products for 2020! From the Amplitude Infinity to the Grand Slam Clear Tip to the Sonar Musky, you asked for it and we delivered for 2020. We’re sure you will appreciate the strategic addition of a technical saltwater lines like the Infinity Salt and many more. Make sure to check out our new line of apparel and don’t forget to grab a hoodie and a fresh lid this season! All new product will be available to ship starting October 1st. Please feel free to reach out to the Pro Desk if you have any questions

NEW Amplitude Infinity:

Due to popular demand we expanded the availability of our Textured Amplitude series! The Amplitude Infinity has the power to bomb out streamers, yet retains delicacy for dry flies. It mends like an absolute dream, and delivers flies at all distances. Built a half-size heavy, with a long head and substantial front taper.

NEW Amplitude Double Taper:

Weight forward fly lines can be tailored to a variety of tasks. However, sometime’s a Double Taper is just the best tool for the job. Whether is a classic rod, a modern glass or just a need for delicate dry fly deliveries the Amplitude Double Taper will give you feel you desire with the performance you need.

NEW Amplitude Infinity Salt:

Infinity Salt is technical, versatile, accurate and simply the most advanced saltwater line available. Featuring the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability the Infinity Salt will handle the most rigorous of conditions year after year. The Infinity Salt is a half line weight heavy to turn over any fly on even the windiest of days. The extended head length makes it more accurate than short shooting heads so that you can efficiently present your fly to spooky fish in the most efficient manner.

NEW Amplitude Smooth Infinity Salt:

For those who prefer a non textured version we’ve also introduced Infinity Salt in Amplitude Smooth. Technical, versatile, accurate and simply the most advanced saltwater line available Featuring the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability the Infinity Salt will handle the most rigorous of conditions year after year. The Infinity Salt is a half line weight heavy to turn over any fly on even the windiest of days. The extended head length makes it more accurate than short shooting heads so that you can efficiently present your fly to spooky fish in the most efficient manner.

NEW Amplitude Smooth Tarpon:

There is absolutely nothing in fly fishing quite like seeing a tarpon inhale your fly, leap toward the heavens, and race like a madman for the horizon. In order to make that happen, you’ll need help: the Amplitude Smooth Tarpon. Designed with a short head for quick shots, this is the perfect line for casting flies to tarpon of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. Just remember to bow to the king when it jumps.

NEW Mastery Standard:

Mastery Standard is a true to AFFTA line weight casters fly line. Built with a mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at long distances. If you love casting this will quickly become one of your new favorites.

NEW Mastery Great Lakes Switch:

Designed with the Great Lakes anadromous angler in mind the Great Lakes Switch line has an aggressive taper designed to turn over large indicators and the heaviest flies. Intended for use with switch and spey rods with a long head for superior mendability.

NEW Euro Nymph Kit:

Convert almost any single hand trout rod quickly to a Euro Nymphing setup with this kit. Includes a 20′ floating Euro Nymph Tip (0.25″ dia), our Absolute Euro Nymph leader, and foam storage spool.

NEW I/2/3 AND I/3/6 DENSITIES Sonar Triple Density:

Get this: we took one of our most popular tapers, the Titan, drenched it in various mixtures of tungsten powder, and created a triple-density sinking fly line that will absolutely change the way you fish streamers forever. This is a fully tapered sinking line, so it casts like a floater, but provides a straight-line sinking connection to your streamer. The days of chucking and ducking are finally over. Welcome to the triple-density revolution.

NEW INTERMEDIATE DENSITY Sonar Titan Sink Tip:

Two lines sizes heavy for loading quickly and delivering the biggest flies to the furthest target the Titan Sink Tip in the ultimate for casting large streamers that need to get down. The short, powerful head provides excellent turnover tossing streamers to trout, smallmouth, bass, pike, steelhead and salmon. Now available in three densities intermediate, sink 3 and sink 6, you can be sure to put your fly where the fish hold in the water column.

NEW Sonar Grand Slam Clear Tip:

Tarpon. Bonefish. Permit. All in one day. All on one line. That’s the idea behind the Mastery Grand Slam, a fly line designed specifically to help you achieve one of angling’s most elusive accomplishments. We’ve taken our most popular saltwater taper and added a clear intermediate tip for ultra wary fish.

NEW Sonar Musky:

Blind casting big flies requires a line that will allow you to do it efficiently and effectively all-day long. The New Sonar Musky fly line does just that! With a 30′ type 5 sinking head the largest streamers will get down and stay down on the strip. The slightly larger running line diameter makes the line easier to grip even on the coldest fall mornings. Designed in 2 sizes, 450 grains and 500 grains, the Sonar Musky will carry, shoot and turn over the largest of flies.

NEW Sonar Surf:

Cast out and get down with the Sonar Surf. Designed with a 27’ Sink 6 head the Sonar Surf is THE ideal line for single and double hand rods in the surf.

NEW Sonar 3D Custom Tip:

Designed to go deep and stay deep. Our 3D custom tip is a cut to fit design to allow you to target whichever grain window you need. Our fastest sinking line with a Sink 8 head Sink 3 handling section and an intermediate running line to keep you in the zone longer.

NEW Scandi:

The NEW Scandi head is the line you will want to cast! The Scandi is smooth and forgiving, perfectly suited for a variety of casting styles and any rod. The rear taper has a high contrast sighter to identify the back of the head.

NEW Tippet Rings, Micro Swivels & Stay Lok Snaps:

Tippet Rings offer an easy leader to tippet connection. Micro Swivels eliminate line twist and make it easy to drop tippet size from the larger leader diameter. Stay Lok Snaps make changing flies a breeze and are the most reliable fly snaps, period.

NEW SPEY MODELS Rod Sleeve:

Rod sleeves greatly reduce rod tangles when transporting your outfits to your favorite stream. Now available in two Spey lengths to fit up to 15′ rods.

NEW Head Wallet:

Keep your Spey heads, Tips, and Fly Lines organized between trips. Wallet holds up to 12 lines and is ventilated to quickly dry lines when not in use.

NEW Apparel and Hats:

We are excited to offer our largest collection of hats and clothing yet. With various fits and designs there is a product that looks good, fits well and just like your Scientific Anglers lines will become your go-to piece.

About Scientific Anglers:

Founded in 1945 in Midland, Michigan, Scientific Anglers has been an industry leader in the development of fly lines, leaders, tippets, reels, and accessories for more than 75 years. Scientific Anglers developed the modern floating fly line and pioneered the use of textured technologies in fly-line construction.

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Faces of Fly Fishing: Derek Olthuis

Collin Terchanik
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Family, Faith, and Fishing are the best words to describe this week’s Faces of Fly fishing. We had the opportunity to sit down with THE Derek Olthuis. There is no doubt this guy can fish… He has the patience, intelligence, and spirit that several fishermen seem to lack. This past winter he and InTents Media released a trip targeting the “holy grail” up in Canada’s Arctic Circle.

Flylords: Who is Derek Olthuis?

Derek: I am simply a guy who loves fly fishing so much that I couldn’t possibly handle the thought of an office job and so… I pursued a career in fly fishing! I am a Christian, a family man, and an outdoorsman.

Photo Credit Phil Tuttle

Flylords: How do you get to do what you do?

Derek: Obviously, there is a lot of luck involved in being able to travel and fish some amazing places around the world. Probably the biggest thing is developing relationships with companies and providing them with value. Lodges, guides, and outfitters need media more than ever and being able to provide them with content that will help bring exposure to their fishery and business. It has been a good way to build great relationships and open doors to fish in various places around the world.

Flylords: When did the fly fishing journey begin?

Derek: As a boy, I grew up on a small lake in Montana, fishing was the daily norm. Around 8 years old my uncle invited me to come to Bozeman and give fly fishing a shot. He set me up with all the gear, gave me a quick lesson, and sent me out on the Gallatin River. My mind was blown, casting, reading the river, and the fish was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It only took once with the flies replacing the spinners, and the ugly stick turned into a Browning fly rod with an Orvis reel. Since that first time I have never looked back, fly fishing became my main focus.

Flylords: Is there a downfall to all the traveling?

Derek: The hardest part about traveling is being away from my wife and kids. After roughly a week on the road, it becomes tough to be away and as good as fishing might be I start looking forward to being at home.

Photo Credit Michelle Olthuis

Flylords: How do you manage fly fishing time and family time?

Derek: Managing time between family and fly fishing can be tough. My wife and I look at a calendar and figure out when there is a family event or something for the kids that is important and we plan around that. Often fishing means hitting the water early in the morning and coming home around the same time the kids are home from school or fishing at night when the kids are asleep. It certainly requires some sacrifice but if doable when we sit down and figure out the days of the week that will be best for me to get on the water.

Flylords: What was one of the most memorable films that you were apart of?

Derek: Without doubt one of the most memorable trips was heading to the Canadian Arctic to film Seriously North.

Flylords: What makes the Arctic char the “holy grail”?

Derek: All of us (the InTents Media crew) love char, for us, those colored-up sea run arctic char are rare, difficult to access, and among the most beautiful fish on earth. That combination makes them extra special to us and the Holy Grail.

Flylords: Whose idea was it to kneel during the struggle?

Derek: I am not sure that anyone person came up with the idea to kneel down and pray. Everyone on the trip is religious and believes that God is aware of us. As we talked about the trip, the struggles and that this might be our one chance to catch these fish we decided to kneel down together and ask for help from a higher power, from our Heavenly Father.

Flylords: Were you ever afraid of the dangers on these trips?

Derek: We are always aware of the dangers involved in a trip like that, part of the fun is knowing there is a risk that can really turn the trip into an adventure. We do a lot of research and talk through the possible dangers to make sure we have the proper gear and a game plan for anything that might arise. I am a firm believer that being prepared removes the majority of the fear and allows for a more carefree experience. On almost every trip we have experienced discomfort, bad weather, tough fishing, and genuine adventure but I guess that is what makes these types of trips so much fun!

Flylords: What’s the largest fish you’ve ever caught on a fly rod?

Derek: Probably a tarpon. There is something special about tarpon. It is almost as though electricity pulses through the line and into your body when you hook up on a big poon. Trout and char are my bread and butter; however, every fly angler should catch a tarpon on the fly at least once!

Flylords: Favorite fly pattern?

Derek: I am going to have to say a bugger. Buggers are so versatile, you can pound the banks with them, dead drift them, or fish them like a leech in lakes. In fact, I am sure that if you tied them on a salt hook you would do well in the ocean with a bugger. I have caught several species of fish all over the world on a bugger and can’t think of a pattern that is a better no brainer searching pattern like a bugger.

Flylords: What’s the most underrated piece of gear you have?

Derek: Either sunglasses or the hook. I see a ton of people show up to fish with an expensive rod, reel, line, fishing bag, waders, and so on. Then often people’s hooks are cheap, rusty or dull and they are wearing sunglasses they bought at the gas station. Sunglasses are what allows me to see fish and observe them, giving me all the clues to catch them. And hooks are your most important link between you and the fish. All the other pieces of equipment only work if the hook is sharp and strong enough to get the job done. All of the best gear is next to worthless if you have a crappy hook.

Sam Parkinson with the one!

Flylords: What destination would you recommend for a group of angling buddies?

Derek: Huh, that’s a tough one. There are so many great places to fish it is hard to choose one but I might say Alaska. Alaska has so much to offer any angler it is hard to think of a better place for almost any ability level or type of person. There are enough salmon in the river that anyone can catch a fish, a trophy rainbow will provide a challenge and if you get tired of catching fish just look around and enjoy the bears, scenery and overall experience of being in a location that has so much to offer an outdoorsman.

Flylords: Have you learned any lessons about life or fishing from all the fishing you do around the globe?

Derek: Fishing around the world has really taught me a lot. It has shown me how many amazing places there are in the world, how many great people love fish and fishing, and just how lucky I am to live where I live. As much as I love traveling it is hard to beat the Rocky Mountains in the US and Canada. There is so much diversity in the West between types of fish and places to pursue them it has really made me appreciate the areas I so often take for granted.

Flylords: Any upcoming trips?

Derek: In the remaining months of the year myself and the crew will be heading to Minipi in Eastern Canada, Katmai Trophy Lodge in Alaska, and Seychelles. Each will be unique from the others but I can’t wait to fish them all. To be honest, I am really looking forward to fishing around the home from most of the summer, it has been a blast so far!

Cortney Boice and Sam Parkinson load up the floatplane to head out for Seriously North.

 

This interview was conducted by team member Collin Terchanik.

Header photo by Phil Tuttle.

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When Things Don’t Go Pike

Patrick Perry
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When Things Don’t Go Pike

It was supposed to be easy, I grew up on this piece of water, cut my angling teeth chasing pike there. As the top predator in the lake, they mow down pretty much anything that resembles food and sometimes things that don’t. I’ve caught thousands of them from this pocket of water.

I was stoked, I’d spent the season getting serious about fly fishing, I was super fired up for my annual trip east to visit the family and hang at our cottage. With almost three weeks off, the plan was to spend most of it on the water. The previous year I’d only had 10 days back there and managed to land a few big bass and some decent pike on gear. Landing the large bull trout on a fly rod had me salivating at the thought of tying into a northern, even if it was a small hammer handle I was ready for some slime time.

For many years this was my daily view, dockside sunrises in southern Ontario cottage country. Photo: Matthew Mallory

My girlfriend had arrived in Toronto several days earlier: with my brother and his partner they picked me up at Pearson airport which we escaped straight to the cottage to sleep. Early morning coffee with Dad while unpacking the rods and sneaking out in the boat before Rachael was awake set the tone. Right off the bat, like a slap in the face the fishing was hard. Feeling the effects of climate change, Ontario had been in the midst of a crazy hot summer.

It was just too damn hot, my tried and true spots, while producing the odd fish were not working out like last year. The previous August I’d spent eight or nine days on the water and managed to tie into a lot of pike and some pretty decent bass. Paddleboarding around the lake the shallows which are normally teaming with largemouth bass and panfish were strangely barren. Our stealthy paddles were only showing occasional schools of little bluegills and perch.

Incidental catch while stripping long flies for pike. A little largemouth bass keeping up the entertainment level. Even on an 8wt rod there is a lot more finesse involved than horsing them in on gear. Photo: Rachael Brown

Over the months leading up to August, I had stocked up on big streamers, outfitted myself with a couple new rods, the main objective to be ready for Ontario. I wanted to feel the slashing strike, the violent boat side head-shakes and power that would have my rod bent deep. Day after day slinging long casts with big flies my shoulder was aching and I was getting nothing. Now and then I’d cave and search out some bass but most of my time was spent scouring the deep weed edges and troughs trying to sink the hook into a northern’s toothy maw.

A week after arriving we had a change in the weather, a slight cooling that dropped the water temperatures a touch and made it bearable. Finally, I started to get some pike action. They didn’t seem to be hungry but were willing to tentatively slash out at a tantalizing strip of rippling bunny leech. It was simple to tell that the pike were starting to hit, the strike is much more violent than a bass and when an 8-inch fly comes back 4 inches shorter you can figure the rest is tangled in a pike’s teeth. Not to mention the occasional strike that was close to the boat, a slashing streak of green and gold that would always surprise me and get the heart pumping.

An Ontario special, the rock bass, gotta love ‘em but sure do wonder what they are thinking going after a nine-inch fly. Photo: Rachael Brown

For over thirty years the northern pike has been my favorite fish, three weeks of fly fishing and not burying the hooks into one did leave me a little disappointed. Not the sort of disappointment that ruins a trip, but in the months leading up to the trip, it hadn’t crossed my mind that I might not catch a pike. I was not prepared for the reality of spending hours upon hours working drop-offs, weedbeds, and troughs and not sinking hooks. The disappointment of not catching a pike on my fly rod this trip is just a minor setback that has steeled my resolve for next year; hope for a change in the weather, some changes in fly set-up to maximize the short strikers and a raging desire to connect with a nice northern.

Living in trout and salmon obsessed British Columbia I’ve spent my winter scheming about pike.  It might be a year between trips but I am fired up for more of those green and yellow snot rockets.

Article from Matthew Mallory, a writer, and photographer based out of Whistler, British Columbia. His work has covered mainly mountain biking and mountain snowmobiling and now has found a passion for fly fishing. Check him out on the web at  www.mmcreatives.com.

https://theflylords.com/2017/04/01/new-species-caught-on-remote-lake-in-botswana/

https://theflylords.com/2017/11/15/5-tips-to-catch-monster-european-pike/

An Even Bigger Murray Cod Caught on Fly – Largest Ever Recorded

Patrick Perry
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An Even Bigger Murray Cod Caught on Fly – Largest Ever Recorded

As we were in the works of putting together Mickey Finn’s first article “Big Ole’ Goodoo” Trophy Murray Cod Caught on Fly – Tips to Catch Them, Mickey went out and caught an even bigger one. To be exact the biggest ever recorded, 127 cm, weighing somewhere between 90-100 pounds. Check out the full story of what went into landing this trophy below.

So after the first fish, I was home sick for a week with the flu. I’d pushed it pretty hard to catch the first one which went 105cm, which was my personal best, but not the biggest caught on the fly. Josh (@aussieflyfisher) had caught a 122cm when we filmed Goodoo.
However I wasn’t setting out to break any records, I just wanted to get a trophy cod on the fly.

Photo: @hsmithcreative

But, I also wanted my mate Will (@willcurtin_) to catch one on the fly so we went out again. We were fishing at the same lake (It’s a mega trophy producing lake but tough as hell) and it had gotten to about 11 O’clock without a single bite. We pushed up into a bay and I made a cast hard against the edge, it probably would only have been two meters of water, and I got absolutely nailed.

Photo: @hsmithcreative

I strip-struck harder than I ever had in my life and came tight to what was obviously another beast. Will and I both knew it was big, when you hook a meter fish it’s pretty obvious, it’s like hooking a tractor. When we saw it swim back out of the bay between the boat and the bank, we both instantly knew it was a ridiculous fish.

Photo: @hsmithcreative

Fighting Cod is like a tug of war, you run 40lb leader and do not give them an inch, I had my 9wt bent to the cork but luckily this guy moved off the bank to open water so we had a good shot at landing him. Unfortunately, our net, the largest on the market designed for big Goodoo and Barramundi, was clearly too small by about two shaka lengths. We were both freaking out trying to land this beast. As we had limited time because big cod will eventually wear through leaders because of their sandpaper like rows of micro teeth.

At the end between sticking, my hand into the teeth trap and sorta flipping its tail around we got it in the net comfortably and both collapsed on the deck laughing. We knew it went over 120 cm before measuring it (which is a huge deal, like a 35-inch trout) and when it went 127cm I again couldn’t stop laughing. I don’t care about records but it is the longest and heaviest Goodoo ever landed on fly.

To give you an idea on weight the first fish would have been a solid 30-35kilo, so anywhere between 60-80lb, but when you add length to these fish the weight goes up massively. So the big dog would have weighed in at more like 40-45kilo, so 90-100lbs!!

A 127cm this Goodoo could have easily been older than me and I’m 28. Essentially it’s the raddest thing ever and I don’t know if I’ll ever top it when it comes to fishing. The cool thing is though because of all the hard work of Australian fisheries, volunteers and fisherman, more and more of these dreamtime giants are out there.

To book a trip with Mickey check out the Aussie Fly Fisher website here. And be sure to follow Mickey on Instagram @mickey.finn.

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/10/big-ole-goodoo-trophy-murray-cod-caught-on-fly-tips-to-catch-them/

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/12/fly-fishing-australia-episode-1-snowy-mountains/

 

Video of the Week: Class V Fly Fishing

Conner Grimes
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Video of the Week: Class V Fly Fishing

For our latest video of the week, we had the chance to sit down with Brendan Wells of Mountain Mind Media to ask him a few questions about his epic film in conjunction with NRS.

Fly Lords: How did this trip originally come about?

Brendan: We went on a trip to explore the Bristol Bay region in early May, primarily to film bears for our adventure rafting/fishing film Koktuli Wild. We knew there was amazing fishing potential in the area, but it wasn’t until we started flying around and exploring the rivers that we realized the kayaking potential. Then, it was a no brainer that we could use our kayaks to get to places no one else can go.

Fly Lords: Are these rivers virtually untouched by fishermen?

Brendan: Bristol Bay is a famous watershed for fisherman, but the particular stretches of rivers that were of interest to us – the ones with the biggest waves and whitewater, are virtually untouched by fisherman.

Fly Lords: What was it like carrying camera gear in such a harsh environment?

Brendan: I used to enjoy the days of paddling a lightweight kayak with minimal gear, as it makes running difficult whitewater much easier. But these days we essentially bring as much camera gear as we can fit in our kayaks in order to capture our adventures on video and photos as best we can. I love the art and challenge of filmmaking, but it definitely adds a whole new level of stress and difficulty to actually running the rapids. On top of that, Alaska frequently dishes our brutal rain and wind storms, which makes getting any shots in the first place and keeping our gear safe and dry extra challenging.

Fly Lords: What was the highlight of the trip?

Brendan: For me, the highlight of the trip was catching huge fish both above and below one of the most quality whitewater rapids I have run in Alaska. I bring my rod and reel down almost every river I run in Alaska, but it’s rare that good fishing and good whitewater are found in the same place and at the same time.

Fly Lords: Do you anticipate the locals ever being able to guide on that stretch, or is it just too intense?

Brendan: If I lived in the area, I would probably kayak the whitewater on this section every day, but it has taken me many years to build the skills and confidence to run big whitewater like this. Locals would have to spend a lot of time learning to raft or kayak class IV-V whitewater before they could comfortably and safely run or guide this stretch of whitewater. There are so many other accessible world-class fisheries nearby that I don’t see it very likely that anyone will take the time or risk to take people here in the future.

Fly Lords: What’s next for Mountain Mind Media?

Brendan: We have been spending most of the summer exploring new rivers in Alaska in search of whitewater and fish. We are also going back out to Bristol Bay this September to run more whitewater and potentially some big waterfalls in order to access more stretches of water that have never been fished before. We’ll be creating another film this year documenting our search for whitewater, waterfalls and huge fish in the Bristol Bay region. Stay tuned on our social media pages and look for the film in future film festivals!

To see what Mountain Mind Media has in store next, be sure to keep up with their Instagram and YouTube.

This interview was conducted by Fly Lords team member Conner Grimes (@doublehaulfishing).

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/25/video-of-the-week-finding-common-ground/

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/08/throwback-video-of-the-week-strip/

https://theflylords.com/2019/08/01/video-of-the-week-fly-fishing-for-dorado/

A Weakened Endangered Species Act, The latest Trump Administration Attack On The Environment

Will Poston
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A Weakened Endangered Species Act, The latest Trump Administration Attack On The Environment

In a move that resulted in an uproar from environmental groups and concerned citizens, the Trump administration, on Monday, announced changes to how the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is applied. This final rule marks a sustained effort by this administration to weaken the United States’ premier conservation law, which passed under the Nixon Presidency in 1973. The Trump administration rationalized the move by saying, “[t]he revisions finalized with this rulemaking fit squarely within the President’s mandate of easing the regulatory burden on the American public, without sacrificing our species’ protection and recovery goals,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. However, many states and environmental groups are already pushing back against the revisions and are likely to initiate legal challenges. For example, “Maura Healey, the attorney general of Massachusetts, called the changes ‘reckless’ and said states would ‘do everything we can to oppose these actions,’” wrote Lisa Friedman of the New York Times.

The changes will affect how the ESA is implemented. One change will alter how the government interprets “foreseeable future” when implementing the ESA. This narrowed interpretation can make it more difficult for regulators to protect species that are vulnerable to climate change and other future threats, because the effects of climate change are often not experienced immediately. Also, the changes will make it easier for the Secretaries of the Interior (former coal and oil lobbyist, David Bernhard) and Commerce Departments to remove species from the endangered list.

The Bald Eagle was saved by Endangered Species Act protections. Photo Jeremy Koreski

Similarly, the final rule-change will revoke the longstanding prohibition of considering economic impacts when determining whether to protect a species or not. Previously, agencies tasked with enforcing the ESA could only base their species listing determinations on scientific data. However, now “the Act does not prohibit the Services [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service] from compiling economic information.” This inclusion of economic information could have profound effects and give industries a louder voice in ESA protection determinations. And while this may seem like a sensible measure, its places a short-term cost on the long-term preservation of threatened species.

This Act is one of the most important and effective laws for preserving the United States’ wildlife and biodiversity. “The ESA has prevented more than 99 percent of the species listed from going extinct, serving as the critical safety net for wildlife that Congress intended when it passed the law more than 40 years ago,” according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Steelhead trout greatly benefit from Endangered Species Act protections

Among the nearly 1,200 animals listed under the ESA, there are 17 species of Pacific Salmon, 12 species of Pacific Steelhead, 9 species of trout, and Atlantic Salmon. These are species that provide unmeasurable amounts of enjoyment for American fishermen and significant economic contributions to local economies. It is not clear yet whether these changes will have immediate implications for these fish or the hundreds of other listed species, but they are undoubtedly worse off now than one year ago.

Photo Credit: Fish Eye Guy Photography

These changes to how agencies implement the ESA–and potential effects of the changes–fulfill the Administration’s goals and continue its consistent attacks on our country’s lands, water, and wildlife. Whether its having a former coal and oil lobbyist head the Department of the Interior (responsible for the conservation and management of most federal lands and natural resources) or the Trump administration approving the largest reduction of public lands in US history, Trump’s attacks on the environment are blatant.

To make matters worse, one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction around the world due to human activities. So, the ESA will become that more essential for preserving our wildlife in the years to come. “We’re facing an extinction crisis, and the administration is placing industry needs above the needs of our natural heritage,” says Rebecca Riley, legal director for Natural Resources Defense Council’s Nature Program.

In his 1908 “Conservation as a National Duty” speech President Teddy Roosevelt exclaimed: “but the time has come to inquire seriously what will happen when our forests are gone, when the coal, the iron, the oil, and the gas are exhausted, when the soils shall have been still further impoverished and washed into the streams, polluting the rivers, denuding the fields, and obstructing navigation. These questions do not relate only to the next century or to the next generation. One distinguishing characteristic of really civilized men is foresight; we have to, as a nation, exercise foresight for this nation in the future; and if we do not exercise that foresight, dark will be the future!”

For more on this issue, be sure to check out this article from Outside Online.

Cover photo from the talented Jeremy Koreski, check out our interview with him here. 

This article was written by Flylords’ Conservation Editor, Will Poston.

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/11/president-trumps-environmental-record-is-far-from-adequate-despite-his-recent-remarks/

https://theflylords.com/2019/07/31/bristol-bay-back-on-the-chopping-block-again/

Fly Fishing in the Rain: Tips, Tricks, and What to Look For

Katie Burgert
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Fly Fishing in the Rain: Tips, Tricks, and What to Look For

Presented By Abel Reels

If you imagine a perfect day on the water, pleasant temperatures and sunshine probably come to mind. But rain, which is a common summer afternoon occurrence, leaves most anglers packing up their cars and heading for home. 

But, if you’re willing to stick it out through the bad weather, you’ll reap some major benefits. The moment the first drop falls, people will start heading for home, and that’s the first advantage to staying out. Most likely, you’ll get the water to yourself. 

Apart from that, the fishing itself is likely to improve as well. Some people love fishing in the rain, since the low light conditions and abundance of food can trigger heavy feeding in fish. Fishing during a rainstorm, though, requires different tactics than on a bluebird day. Not all rain is created equal, either, so knowing how to approach each situation is key. Tailoring both your fly choice and presentation to the conditions can make or break a rainy day on the water.

The calm before the storm

Different types of rain

General rainstorm tips

Fly suggestions for rain

 

The Calm Before the Storm

While fishing in the rain can be an opportune time, don’t discount the cool, calm time before the storm. Fishing right before it rains can be just as effective as during or after a rainstorm.

Opinions differ on what exactly causes this increase in activity before inclement weather. Two of the main guesses are barometric pressure and low light conditions. 

It’s hard to argue against the idea of low light conditions being a good thing. Low light, with or without rain, often causes an increase in fish activity. Hatches may start to come off, harsh direct light goes away, and fish may be harder for predators to spot. Fish respond well to all of these things.

As for barometric pressure, many anglers swear by it, while others think it’s more of a correlation than causation. Pressure tends to fall dramatically right before a storm, and it’s during this time of rapid change that fish are thought to feed the most aggressively.

It’s well-known that fish can sense pressure changes due to organs like the swim bladder, which are acutely tuned to pressure. The thoughts about why pressure affects fish, though, vary widely. One idea is that a drop in pressure may cause small baitfish and plankton to rise in the water column, leading to a feeding frenzy among predators. Another guess is that the predatory fish themselves will rise temporarily in the water, making them easier to target in the shallows. A third idea supposes that fish make the connection between pressure drops and bad weather, so they choose to feed before the rain mucks up the water.

Whatever the true cause of the action, it’s evident that the fishing improves before a storm, so target this time aggressively.


Different Types of Rain

Fish respond differently to different types of precipitation, so it’s important to cater your techniques to the type of rainstorm.

Light Rain

A quick, mild drizzle likely won’t affect fishing much at all. If you don’t even think to look for your rain jacket, you probably don’t need to worry about switching your rig, either. Fish may take dries or nymphs during a light rain, although rises may be hard to spot among the raindrops!

Steady Rain

If the rain picks up into a steady shower, it’s probably time to switch tactics. Fish will likely stop rising to the surface for tiny insects, so swapping out for a nymph rig is a good idea. The other option is to use large, gaudy dries like hoppers. Rain knocks tons of insects and other food sources into the water, so fish may sit along the shore ready to gobble up terrestrials as they tumble in. You can get the best of both worlds by tying a nymph off the bottom of your hopper.

Heavy Rain

When a heavy downpour rolls in, the water starts to rise and turn muddy. This may effectively eliminate dry fly activity, as well as small nymphs. Now’s the time to throw on something large and juicy like a San Juan worm or streamer. Flies in this type of water should be visible and appetizing. Save your delicate flies for the nicer weather.


General Rainstorm Tips

Use quicker retrieves – If you’re fishing the high-activity period right before rain, try fishing any stripped fly more aggressively than normal. During this frenzy, fish key in on fleeing prey, and you can take advantage of the chaos by giving them something to chase down.

Adapt – Probably the most important thing to keep in mind when fishing in the rain is that you must be willing to make adjustments along the way. If you keep the same rig from pre-storm to post-storm, you’ll probably strike out through most of it. Changing tactics frequently to match the weather is the way to go.

Look for slow eddies near shore – Especially in a medium-strength rain, try to fish the slower pockets near shore. Not only do these pockets give fish a safe haven during rising water levels, but they also collect insects that fall in from the banks.

Prepare for another bump in activity after the storm – While the calm before the storm is great due to pressure and light changes, don’t forget to fish after a storm, too. If you catch it just right, you may be rewarded with massive hatches of insects as clearing weather meets with a cooling evening. Get ready to throw your dries back on as soon as the rain stops.

Fly Suggestions for Rain

The three top categories of flies during a rainstorm are terrestrials, large nymphs, and streamers. 

Any terrestrials can mimic bugs falling in from the shore, but sticking with large ones like hoppers or big ants is probably best, especially if the surface is disturbed by rainfall.

As for streamers, try visible colors like black or dark brown to make them stand out against the murky water. A black woolly bugger is perfect.

If you’re nymphing, stick with large, visible flies like a Pat’s Rubber Legs or San Juan worm. Prey items like worms and chubby stoneflies get kicked up during rough water and make for a juicy, highly visible meal.

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This article was developed by Flylords’ content team member, Katie Burgert.

Bloomberg Releases List of the Best Fly Fishing Guides and Locations

Dan Zazworsky
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Bloomberg Releases List of the Best Fly Fishing Guides and Locations

Last week, Bloomberg magazine published an extensive piece highlighting the amazing sport of fly fishing. Focusing on fly fishing locations and guides to get you on fish while you’re there, the piece covers everywhere from Stripers on Martha’s Vineyard to GT’s at Alphonse Fishing Company in the Seychelles. We’ve been lucky enough to travel and cover a number of the locations, guides and target species, and a few on the list will probably be familiar to readers of ours: Abbie Shuster of Kismet Outfitters, Abaco Lodge, Oliver White, Mongolian Taimen and more!

Check out the full article, here!

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