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Photo Essay: 50 shades of brown

Jared Zissu
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During my time off for Thanksgiving, I paid a visit to the Clinch River. It’s been a favorite haunt of mine for years. The Clinch is a scenic waterway, great place to get some peace and quiet and one of the best fishing destinations in East Tennessee. 

I spotted this sweet prince about 4pm on Wednesday the 23rd. Exactly one year prior, the very same day in 2015, he (or a fellow Brown) straightened a size 20, blue zebra midge on me. I may have been near tears then, but I was all grins this time. I’d been waiting a full calendar year for the opportunity to dance with another big Brown.

The Clinch is what I would describe as a “tough-to-fish” river. Teeny-tiny nymphs seem to be the only things that get looks, especially from the big fish.  Recollecting last year’s experience, I went to the exact same fly I’d lost him on one year ago. I pulled out my size 20 blue zebra and went to work.

My 3rd or 4th cast earned a slight chase. Which got my heart pumping, a little more. Like most fish of his size, the Brown quickly lost interest.  Undeterred, I soldiered on, proceeding to try about 20 different patterns to see if I could spark an interest. Nada.

Frustrated once again, I decided to call it a night. On my way home, I told a good buddy about my 2nd attempt at the Brown, and how it was the fish of my dreams.

“It was probably a carp,” he replied. He’d soon eat those words.

Thoughts of the Brown continued to consume me. My entire drive back to Knoxville – where I’d be enjoying Thanksgiving festivities with my family – was spent dreaming of a victorious and triumphant return to catch this trophy Brown.

Friday at 8:15 am, I returned. The water would soon settle post-generation. From there, I would begin my assault with a new level of determination. I was prepared to do everything I could possibly try to catch this fish.

On my way to the hole where I’d previously spotted him, I caught a 15 inch Rainbow. After that, a 16.5 inch Brown. And as I was basking in the glow of my second catch, my brother yelled up  from below. “I SEE THE FISH!”

Feigning nonchalance, I told him to go for it. Knowing that very soon, I too would have my shot.

I meandered down to verify this was, in fact, my arch nemesis Trophy Brown. One look provided the validation I needed. He was just one pool down from before.

Did I truly want my brother to catch him? I’d tell you yes. But the honest truth is that I selfishly wanted my shot at the title. So when nature called for my brother Jonathan – in a different sense – I positioned myself for the perfect drift.

<Note: I’m fishing a 4 weight with 5X dropping a size 20 purple zebra midge off of a small pheasant tail.>

Cast one: Good distance, the perfect depth, but just left of this beast – who’s holding confident and steady in his position.

Cast two: Same, but just past him and to the right.

Cast three: Perfect. My indicator drops right over the fish. Set!

The fear and excitement sets in, but the visual I expected isn’t there. The line is tight, and yet, the fish is still in the same position. It wasn’t my Trophy Brown. It was a different fish, only 11 or so inches.

I unhook it, resettle, and cast again.

Cast four: Perfect drift. Perfect angle. The indicator is just over the fish. It ducks under the water. And a sense of fear suddenly ensues.

The shudder in the water is something I still can’t explain. The yellow belly flashed, and the pure power of the fish actually, physically shook the water.

He’s hooked! The realization momentarily stunned me. I yelled to my brother, “He took! Johnny Boy, get the net!” When all of the sudden, the Brown takes off.

Before I can get my line tight or heighten tension on the reel, this fish is already downstream 30 yards.  The next 10-15 minutes? A state of black-out — full of panic, fear, and anxiety. Think Will Ferrell in Old School.

Frantic and yelling to my brother to keep up, I followed the fish downriver and find myself hollering out requests for net assistance from 2 unsuspecting fellow fisherman. “Hey, can I get a hand with some net help?” Moments later, the Brown shows me the true meaning of power, making a last minute run for a downed tree. The unsuspecting angler yells something along the lines of, “Holy sh*t, that’s the largest fish I’ve ever seen!”

At this point, I’m overcome with panic. I’m this close to losing this fish.

He reaches the tree and lodges himself on a log with a notch at the base of the river. I don’t know if he’s tossed the line and about to run, so in a desperate last attempt, I lunge my arm to the bottom of the stream, grab him by the tail, and – somehow – surface this beast.

My net can barely even hold the writhing monstrosity I’ve just landed, but eventually he succumbs and goes in headfirst. I breathe the heaviest sigh of relief I’ve ever released as a fisherman. It’s over. I’d caught the fish I’ve always dreamed I would catch.

He taped at 28.5 inches. Releasing this fish is something I’ll never forget. The ecstasy and joy surrounding this achievement is something I’ll never be able to describe.

The act of fly fishing is one of patience, determination, skill, and luck. And on November 25th the stars aligned for me. Catch or no catch, trophy or not, I’ll continue my trips to the river for many years to come – thankful for the beauty of the Clinch and the memories of catching this amazing Brown.

Video: Chasing 24 Karat Gold in The Bolivian Jungle

Jared Zissu
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In September of 2016, I was offered the opportunity of a lifetime. A trip to the headwaters of the Bolivian Amazon with Angling Frontiers.

When you spend two weeks in the Raw Amazon jungle you begin to really understand the people who you are with, that is one great aspect about fly fishing adventures…

One of the guides on this expedition is a guy who goes by the name of Jonathan Jones, aka RedBeard. John was also guiding with one of my high school roommates, Scott Montross. Below John is putting a “Bolo” in his mouth. A native ritual to help gain stamina pushing wooden boats up the Amazon River. John is mentoring Scott on the right technique.

Next, you wash down the Bolo with a quick splash of local liquor. 

This was Scott’s first full time guiding gig, and starting in the Amazon jungle was not easy in the least bit. John did a great job helping mentor Scott and me on this trip and for that, I owe him my gratitude. Scott and John put together a pretty awesome short video showcasing their adventure. Check it out below. 

Faces of Fly Fishing: Rolf Nylinder

Jared Zissu
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Flylords: How long have you been fly fishing for?

Rolf: I think it’s around 13 years now…

Flylords: When did you start carrying a camera with you? What was the first movie you made?

Rolf: I guess I started with that right away, some cheap DV-cam we had to film snowboarding during the winters. My interest in filming and fly fishing has sort of evolved together. The first movie I made was maybe something involving the Pike in Lake Mälaren, where I grew up.

Flylords: All time favorite fish to catch on a fly rod? Why?

Rolf: It’s a boring answer, but of course, it’s the brown trout. Where I grew up (close to Stockholm, Sweden) there were no trout and no clear rivers, just farmland and pike. The brown trout became like a mythological creature, something I dreamt of but would never be able to see. But then the summer came, and when my brother got his driving license and we drove north, into the mountains. That summer was magical, I caught a huge 10-15 cm trout on a dry fly. I felt like I was in my own dreams. I guess I’m just chasing that first trout, everything needs to be perfect in order to catch it, a calm and steady current, a proper mayfly hatch and slowly rises. the encounters with that fish happen more and more rarely.

Flylords: I have been following your video work since the beginning, you definitely have one of the most creative minds in the industry. Where does this creativity come from and how have you grown as a videographer since you started?

Rolf: Thank you. Hard question, I don’t know, I just do things. I’m hopefully growing as a filmmaker, though I lack the professionalism that everybody else seems to have. I do things whenever it feels right, but mostly I just dream about being able to do things I can’t.

Flylords: What is your favorite movie?

Rolf: Are you a relative of Steve Zissou? In that case, it’s Life Aquatic.

Flylords: Who is your favorite musical artist?

Rolf: One choice? It can get so wrong when you have to choose only one favorite. Just look at your presidential election…  But well, it has to be Tallest Man On Earth.

Flylords: If you could recommend one book to read?

Rolf: The one I’m reading now is After Nature by Jedediah Purdy, I recommend that, especially if you have a broader English vocabulary than me, and most people do.

Flylords: Do you have any role models in the fly fishing industry?

Rolf: My friend Peter Christensen, Håvard Stubö and the Felt Soul Media guys!

Flylords: If you were stranded on an island and had one fly and one rod, what would you choose?

Rolf: A class 5 rod and a Klinkhammer hook 16. You might think it’s a stupid choice for a deserted island surrounded by a salty ocean. But I would die with class…

Flylords: I know you recently had a fire in your house. First off I am so sorry to hear about that. I am glad to see you starting to get back into your videos, how have you been able to recover from such a setback?

Rolf: I’m so absent-minded that it’s hard keeping one thing in focus for a long time, guess that goes for grief also. But it was hard, not the least economically.

Flylords: What does Rolf Nylinder have planned for 2017?

Rolf: I’ll hopefully make some videos that I just put on my homepage rolfnylinder.com.  I’m almost done with a film from Kamchatka that I did together with Peter, it’s gonna run on the fly fishing film tour…  I’m very happy people actually watch the things I do, that means a lot to me. I’ll probably keep doing some random movies the coming year, that’s what I do.

Continue

Gear Review: Hatch Reels

Jared Zissu
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No doubt, there are a lot of incredible fly reels out there. Ross Reels, Abel Reels, Nautilus Reels, and Taylor Fly Reels are all high quality fly reels, just to name a few. This gives fly anglers a plethora of options to choose from. Working in a fly shop in Fort Worth, Texas, I was lucky to have a lot of options. However, since I received my first Hatch reel 6 years ago, I have not purchased another reel other than Hatch Outdoor’s Finatic Series.

I was fortunate that my fly shop sold Hatch Outdoor fly reels. I contacted the general manager Andrew Dickinson out at Hatch’s headquarters in Vista, California, and he hooked me up. Since then, I have been lucky to call Andrew Dickinson my friend. This summer I flew to California to visit my friend who was from the Orange County area. I thought if I was going to be an hour north of Hatch’s headquarters, I should reach out to Andrew to see about coming down to see the facility. Andrew was more than happy to have me. I knew how the fly reels were made; however, seeing the production process first hand was much more insightful than just reading about it.

So for those of you who know about or own a Hatch reel, you know how special they are. If you don’t, you might be wonder, “Well there are a lot of ‘great’ reels out there. What makes Hatch so different?” Here lies the million-dollar question. What makes Hatch reels so incredible? More specifically, what makes Hatch reels so #FINATICAL?

Well for starters, Hatch Reels are built out of a solid block of aluminum, rather than pouring a liquid aluminum into a mold to solidify. Most high quality reels are made this way, making them much stronger and durable. Hatch reels also have a one-piece machined reel seat, eliminating any unnecessary screws and ensuring there is no corrosion causing the reel seat to lose footing ever. Next, the dimension in the frame is machined to increase rigidity and strength while reducing lateral flex. If you have ever experienced a strong fish ripping line off the reel, then you know how important this aspect is. The spool and the housing act as one. There is no lateral flex when you push or pull the two, resulting in the reel tracking truer and eliminating any shaking in a high speed run. Also, the frame/spool connection utilize a “power flower” design that locks and creates a secure fit. Finally, the reel is then finished with a Type II anodize that holds up in both fresh and salt water.

All of these characteristics mentioned make Hatch’s reels strong and durable. However, the number one thing that sets Hatch apart from other reels is the drag system. Not only is the drag system completely sealed (a big selling point for salt water fly fisherman), the drag system is unique in its multi-disk drag system, compared to most conventional one on one surface contact. This means that one surface (metal) is driven towards another surface (cork, plastic, carbon fiber, graphite, etc.).

However, Hatch reels take a much different approach. The stacked drag system is made up of disks (seen below). The size of the Hatch reel determines the amount of disks that are in each drag system. For example, the smaller 3 Plus reel (ideal for 3-5 weights) has 4 disks with 6 sides of braking surface, whereas the 7 Plus reel (ideal for 7-9 weights) has 6 disks with 10 braking surfaces.

The braking pressure occurs on both sides of these disks, making sure that the materials apply maximum stopping power. This design maximizes the effective braking surface (EBS) in square inches. If you want to learn more about the concept of EBS and how it is measured, call the team at Hatch. I only know the oversimplified version.

There are three main benefits of this multidisc drag system. First, the more surface area makes for a smoother, more durable drag. It also practically eliminates the start up inertia required to get the spool moving. Secondly, because heat distribution occurs over multiple surfaces, the stick slip problems caused by high speed runs are eliminated. Finally, the sealed, multidisc drag system require no lubrication or maintenance.

These benefits truly do translate into a better fishing experience. There is no better person to tell you about Hatch Reels than general manager Andrew Dickinson (pictured above). I was lucky to catch up with Andrew recently and do a Q&A with him.

Q: How did you get started working in the fly fishing industry? Did you start out at Hatch, or did something draw your eye towards the company?
A: “My driving motivation in business mainly focuses on the purpose of the project rather than the monetary payoff. I’ve found if you throw yourself into a project you believe in and fuel it with 110% effort, the money generally takes care of itself. This mindset plus a childhood love for fishing put me on a collision course with the fly industry early on. I learned to cast a fly rod when I was 11 and shortly thereafter found myself fascinated with tying flies and building custom fly rods. I started a custom rod building company when I was 14 and ran it through high school and college. While exhibiting the company at the Pleasanton Fly Fishing Show, I met John Torok and Danny Ashcraft. Pretty sure that was in 2007, only a few years after Hatch started. Both being San Diegans and passionate about fly fishing, we stayed in touch. John was very helpful in passing along business tips to me as a young business owner and eventually offered me a job in 2009. I’ve been here ever since. I was the first employee at Hatch and was able to work alongside John and Danny in a very close-knit environment as we worked to build Hatch to what it is today. We now have a bigger team of very talented and passionate folks working here. It’s been incredibly satisfying to see the brand grow and become known for quality, American products made here in San Diego.”

Q: Freshwater or saltwater? And which species is your favorite to target?
A: “I’m a junkie for anything with fins so it’s tough to pin me down to one species. Some of my favorites would be Dorado here in San Diego, Roosters in Baja, Browns on Silver Creek, and Permit in the Keys. Cuba is happening in 2017 so I’ll probably add a couple more favorites to the list shortly.”

Q: What has been the craziest story you have heard or experienced regarding Hatch’s products? For example, catching a 30” trout on a 1 Plus or a 1000lb shark on a 12 Plus?
A: “Oh man, ask an angler for a story and you better sit down and prepare to listen for awhile. I’ve heard a few and been apart of a few. A few years ago, one of our Pro Staffers found a 7 Plus in the river, cleaned the mud off it and fished with it for the rest of the season. We had a guide down in Texas who caught redfish over 35” with a 3 Plus. When I was at the Fly Fishing Show in New Jersey, I had a guide and customer tell me they used our 12 Plus to bring in 450 lb Bluefin all season. Numerous stories from customers and guides who forgot to buckle down their rods to the car before hitting the highway and then back tracking to find their rigs miles up the road. Most of the Hatch reels survive the fall just fine, except I have one 5 Plus on my desk that collided with an Idaho beet truck. It’s a very low profile fly reel after it’s roadside alteration!”

Q: What have you enjoyed most about working at Hatch Outdoors? And working in the fly fishing industry in general?

A: “Working in the fly industry, you quickly realize it’s small in dollars but big in passion. Dollars-wise, the fly industry is about $800 Million annually for everything sold in the fly fishing space. Flies, Leaders, guide trips, clothing, reels, rods; everything! The small size of the industry makes for a tightly integrated group of manufacturers and dealers who maintain relationships with a passionate crew of customers. I really enjoy the ability to have 50 names in my contacts list connecting me with every important aspect of the fly industry. It’s a tight knit community of folks who know each other and work together to build better businesses, protection for waters we love, and satisfy a wonderful group of consumers.

Hands down, favorite aspect of working at Hatch is the daily interaction with our team of pro staffers, dealers, and customers. I really enjoy working with my dealers to grow their business with our brand. I also really enjoy customer relationships and learning about how we can provide them with the best fly fishing tools ever made. Ultimately fly fishing is an outdoor experience that you hope to replicate over and over again. My desire is to provide gear that will consistently perform to your top expectations when you hit your favorite river or flat the next time.”

Q: What does the future of Hatch look like? Do you see any new product lines or major improvements coming soon?
A: “One of the advantages of making your own gear is having the ability to make changes, customizations, and advancements literally at your fingertips. Any machining change to our reels happens 50 feet from my office. Also, being a small company allows us to be nimble to respond to not only sales demand but also technological improvements. We are continually working on improvements to our products; believe me, new stuff gets us excited!! I can tell you that we would be bored stiff if we weren’t always working on something new, whether it’s new t-shirt design, fly line taper, plier cutters, or improved drag mechanism in a reel. We really appreciate the support of our customers who get behind our crazy ideas.”

 Head over to Hatch’s website for more information or find a Hatch dealer here.

 

Photos provided by Bryan Gregson and Jim Klug. You can find more of their incredible work on Instagram at @bryangregsonphotographyand @jtklugphotography. Both also work with Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Adventures, @yellowdogflyfishing. Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures is a hands-on, specialty travel and destination angling company that delivers the finest “insider” knowledge you need to find, book and arrange the perfect fly fishing trip.

Tanner Poeschel, The Taylor River Trout Bum, is a creative content intern and ambassador for The Fly Lords. Tanner has grown up fly fishing in Colorado, specifically on the Taylor and Gunnison Rivers. For more of his work, check out his website, Facebook, or Instagram. 

A Date With a Trophy Brown

Jared Zissu
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Without fail my modus operandi is to catch my best fish of the day in the eleventh hour, and this beauty was no exception. Patrick, Marjie and I fished hard all day, squeezing in every last cast until the sun started to slip away and the cold settled into the bones of the mountains. Knowing the darkness was drawing near, I sight cast to this lady – not knowing just how big she was.

She fought hard, boy did she fight, and more than once we thought we would lose her, especially with as much line as she had run through. In the words of Patrick, “she knew her snags, down trees, mossy undercuts, and showed them all to us.” I suppose the big ones always do – that’s why landing them is so challenging and so rewarding.

Towards the end of the fight, I slipped back down into the water, trying to prevent her from totally disappearing around the bend and breaking me off, my arm fatigued and struggling to stay high. Patrick took off down the bank too, trying to head her off, and when I heard his joyful holler, I knew we had finally landed her.

In trying to net her, he found out long before I did, that she was a fish of a different caliber. Huddled around the net, all three of us couldn’t help but be in sheer awe of her size and girth. Learning to fight and land big fish is a skill I’ve been working hard on, and being able to land this fish because of previous mistakes I’ve made (albeit heartbreaking at the time), made this visit just a little bit sweeter.

Photos Provided by the talented Patrick Duke. You can find him on Instagram @Artandangling
Also be sure to check out Jessica on Instagram @jjbenson

Arctic Chrome in a Mystical Lake

Jared Zissu
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Most know Iceland as a country of “ice and fire”, but not many people know Iceland as a country of trophy brown trout, which I like to call “Arctic Chrome “.

In the past, I did not have much interested in fly fishing arctic areas. Let’s be honest I’m a woman who enjoys warm weather, sun, crystal clear water, hot sand, bikinis and a cold beer. That being said, this spring I had the opportunity to travel to Iceland with the @arcticsilver team and a chance to fish the mystical lake Thingvellir! This experience changed my opinion, to say the least.

I have to say, the weather was pretty cold during our trip. Our clothes were dusted with snowflakes, faces weather-beaten by a strong wind, and fingers were frozen.

The last day was perfectly calm, the lake surface becomes like a glass mirror, reflecting the world around us. The sun was shining and rays of the sun warmed the water. The temperature changed the activity of fish instantly. It was a pure magic moment when big browns began rising for small dry flies during the sunset. “At this time it didn’t matter which flies we were throwing. You just had to cast somewhere, make a few strips, strike and then enjoy the crazy jumps and run of these good fighters!

We caught some big browns on the 7wt Arctic Silver rods this evening and definitely lost a few also…

I also happened to lose the biggest trout of my life! Just after taking my white streamer he shot off so quickly, darting up along the beach. I tried to chase him, running along the beach, but after a few minutes, he took an abrupt turn into the lake. In the deep water, I had no chance of stopping him, I just watched my backing disappears deep into the distance until the last few wraps of my backing tangled and broke my drag system. I hopelessness held the reel for a few more seconds and then “BAM” he was gone forever into the depth of Thingvellir. Hands shaking, heart still beating like wildfire and the look of excitement still glaring in my eyes. I wasn’t disappointed, mainly because I was known we will meet again next spring. I have some unfinished business to take care of!

The White River: A World Class Fishery

Jared Zissu
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Since the Bull Shoals dam was finished in July 1951, the White River is relatively young compared to other tailwaters. Congress authorized the construction of the Bull Shoals dam in 1941, largely due to the growing pressures by local Ozark residents to prevent large flooding, much like the spring flood of 1927 when the White River crested at 105 feet above the river bottom destroying much of the surrounding towns and farm land.

Trout were soon after introduced to the White River, with brown trout growing into the size of footballs due to the White’s ecosystem providing a plethora of feeding opportunities. Although the brown trout effectively spawned and propagated, these carnivorous browns fed on the smaller, stocked rainbow trout.  This has led to the White River becoming one of the world’s premiere streamer fishing destinations for big, bucknasty browns.

Now although the White River is known for throwing big streamers (pictured above), there are many other ways to effectively fish the river. When the flows start to rise due to the generation at the dam, these very large brown trout push up towards the various hiding places near the bank. The trees, large boulders, shelves, and drop offs on the outsides of the river provide various places for these larger fish to escape the faster flows and feed. This is why when the water rises, streamer junkies can throw meaty streamers and watch 30” plus browns chase their flies out from cover.

However, certain months bring lower water when the generators are not turned on. Although chances of catching a world record brownie are not high during these lower flows, the White River still presents a wide variety of viable options for catching lots of quality fish. During my trip to the White River this past week with Steve Dally and Chad “Mississippi” Johnson from Dally’s Ozark Fly Fisher, we fished many different techniques and set ups. Although we spent little time nymphing, we managed to land a handful of quality fish in a short 20 minutes. After this, we spent the majority of time throwing smaller streamers in the 2-3” size range. This style of streamer fishing on the White is often overlooked, but on this cloudy, November day, this technique was where the money was at.

For throwing smaller streamers on the White River, a fly angler has a few different options. Of course, you can throw a 6 or 7 weight rod with a traditional WF floating line with a longer leader to get your flies down. Another option is to use a versa-leader attached to a weight forward line to get your flies down. This will turn your weight forward floating line into a sink tip. However, my favorite technique that the gentlemen from Dally’s Ozark Fly Fisher taught me was throwing a 7 weight with a sink tip line and a lightly weight fly. The smaller flies we threw often had a spun deer hair head which caused them to float initially. Once the sinking tip got down though, the fly started to dive and swim with a very fishy motion. This created an injured baitfish look that many of the trout couldn’t resist. The flies we threw varied in color. We mixed the colors up over the course of the day, but our most productive colors were a lighter tan or white and a two-toned olive and white fly.

When fishing the White on lower flows, the trout have a much longer view at your fly in the calmer water, making it more difficult to maintain consist hook ups. However, if you use a two handed stripping technique to burn your flies in with a slight pause every few seconds, this can initiate some violent takes. Another option is to target the faster riffle sections while swinging flies. Steve Dally and I used the sinking tip set up previously mentioned and did very well with this technique.

The White River can be a very large, daunting river. However, one must remember that the same techniques for finding feeding fish apply for this river that apply elsewhere, especially out west. There are fly shops in the area who can assist you, especially Dally’s Ozark Angler.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Steve Dally for a while now. Not only is he an excellent guide who knows the White River as well as anyone, his passion for fly fishing and servant’s heart make Steve stand out among all the guides and shop owners I have met. Not only do these things alone differentiate Steve from many others, but Steve has a way of surrounding himself with like-minded individuals who have a passion for teaching the art of fly fishing. Chad “Mississippi” Johnson is one of these individuals who has been guiding on the White River for over a decade. Chad’s ability to teach all arrays of fly fishers in ways that will resonate with them is just one of many qualities that makes him stand out. When it comes to streamer fishing for trophy browns, Chad is the man to talk to.

So next time you head to the White River, don’t forget to throw smaller streamers if the 6” plus streamers are not producing and to stop by Dally’s Ozark Fly Fisher! 

You can find Steve Dally on Instagram @steve_dally_photography
You can find Flylords Intern, Tanner Poeschel on Instagram @Taylor_river_trout_bum

Faces of Fly Fishing: Rebekka Redd

Jared Zissu
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October 25th, 2016: Rebekka answers my call late on Tuesday afternoon, she is packing for her next big adventure and is a few cups of coffee deep, perfect timing for an interview.

“Right now I am getting all of my bags packed and batteries charged, this is my usual routine before a big trip. I am downsizing since I am flying to Africa, my luggage is definitely not as plentiful as if I was going to a fly-in lodge 10 hours from home. I am getting prepared a week before I leave, so I am very proud of myself!”

Flylords: Where are you heading?

Rebekka: I’m heading to Tanzania, it’s my first time fishing in Africa, so I am super stoked! For me, the toothier, crazier, and more vicious the fish are the more I like them. I will be chasing the Tiger Fish in Tanzania.

Flylords:Do you have a crew going with you?

Rebekka: I do have a team for this trip, it’s a team you’ve probably heard of, (Rebekka hesitates) when will this interview go out?

Flylords: Up to you…

Rebekka: Cool, well you are ultimately the first person to know this, but I am teamed with Capt. Jack Productions, RA Beattie, Drift Media and Thomas and Thomas Fly Rods. It’s an incredible group of talented people I get to work with, and to start in Africa is really getting my blood pumping! Tanzania here we come!

Flylords: What kind of rod setups are you bringing to target these Tigerfish?

Rebekka: “We will be setting up the T&T Exocett 9 weights, probably with a 250-300 full sink line, and some tarpon tapers for the warm water, we will also throw in some floating lines with sink tips. We’re bringing countless amounts of flies, although the goal is to try and get them on dry flies! I can’t wait to feel what the fight will be like. I just got back from a Musky trip and I really worked hard for that Musky… I definitely worked up some good fish Karma on that trip! It was like there were no fish in the entire lake, and then on the last day, at last light, when we were beaten up and cold, I threw in the 1 millionth cast and Boom, out of nowhere it all came together.”

Flylords: Do you ever get nervous before a big trip, what type of dangers might you run into in Africa?

Rebekka: “You can’t let anything worry you too much, that being said it’s important to know what can harm you. Malaria is definitely something to keep in mind, take precautions; long pants, long sleeves, don’t wear sandals. Malaria and mosquitos, in general, are in higher forms in populated areas, so luckily we will be far from the cities. My number one fear is probably the Hippos, they are oddly known to be the most aggressive animal in the world. I will also definitely be keeping an eye out for crocs and bugs. I have a really healthy respect for mother nature, just listen to your guides and camp owners, keep your head on your shoulders and on your career path. I have also een equally just as dangerous stuff down in Colombia, where I had to watch out for Electric eels, Anacondas, and Black Caimans. At home, I live in Black Bear country, so you always have to be on the lookout. Mountain Lions, Bears, and Moose that will chase you down if they are with their young.”

Flylords: How did you get into the fly fishing industry, was there a moment in time that made you want to pursue this career path?

“It’s kind of a blur now… I’m not sure if there was a precise moment that made me want to pursue this career, more like a number of events that kept pushing me in this direction. There were many times where I would veer away from becoming a ‘Pro Fly Angler’, I would think, that’s just insane, you can’t do that full time. Then a month or two later it would come back into my life. Significant situations would just be pointing and saying you should do this! People say If it’s meant to be, the doors will open, and that’s exactly what happened. I love the people I have met on this journey, the fly fishing industry has great energy. People just talk in their own language, everyone is a bit eccentric, and we are all completely bent on getting fish on fly and protecting our fisheries. I can sit down with any fly angler, strike up a conversation and be buddies within minutes. In the industry, we are all sisters and brothers.”

Rebekka: Ultimately I think people need to follow their passions in order to be happy, these passions can start at a young age also. This might sound cliche, but I started fishing as soon as I could walk. I was absolutely fascinated with water and fish. My parent actually had to strap a harness to me to help keep me away from the water. The day I was old enough to be on my own I was in the creek checking out the frogs, minnows, and tadpoles, and pestering my older brothers to take me fishing with them. They had to sneak out of the house if they didn’t want their baby sister with them. I think it was all meant to be in the long run.”

Rebekka: I studied to be an exercise physiologist in school, I had a great time with that career, but I really wasn’t happy. I jumped back into the industry side of fly fishing and it started working. It was a lifestyle that really made me happy. As a teen going into college, I was constantly being pressured into the more ‘socially accepted’ career paths. Then one day I just dumped it all to pursue my true passions. I love photography, filming, and fishing, so I sewed them all together and made it happen. I don’t like to live the way society tells you to, and with that understanding, my life has molded the way I wanted it to be. I am my own boss and I don’t fit well listening to rules. I am definitely a rebel, and the more I go against the grain the happier I am.

I bet you’re glad you got that recording.. That was a lot of words from the heart right there…

Rebekka: Fly fishing, when you think about it, is a time when you’re not concentrating on a stressed situation in your life. You are just concentrating on the fly, your line, and the water. You are concentrating on the now, and what keeps you healthy. Everyone needs to do more of that with all these fast-paced lifestyles. Life is short, but it can also be really long if you are miserable.”

Flylords: How can we help bring more women into the sport of fly fishing?

Rebekka: I think there is a rise in women joining in on our sport. When I started there weren’t many. I am still a pioneer in Ontario, there are not many female fly anglers where I am from. I think we have to be careful with social media, it’s happening in hunting and in other industries as well, there is a lack of quality, not a lack of quantity. Fly fishing is a sport deeper than holding a fish. It’s about the connectivity we make with nature, and a special moment we share with gods creatures. In social media, there is a whole lot of nonsense posting. A lot of trout squeezing, and a whole lot of selfies with fish. Posts should be about understanding our surroundings and respecting the fish. It’s not about kissing a fish and getting 500 likes, it should be deeper. Not sure if I fully answered that – If I wanted to cover it a little more clearly; I think it’s awesome we have so many girls getting into the sport, and enjoying the aspect of social media. What I don’t like is squeezing the crap out of a trout for a picture. But that’s not just girls, it’s everyone.

Flylords: Do you think social media has influenced the size of the sport?

Rebekka: Hugely. Social media is creating content, and companies are apart of it. People from all over the world are able to connect through hashtags, of course, it’s going to grow. It’s a great way for all of us to connect, and it helps to bring a lot of awareness to the sport. Beyond Brad Pitt and A River Runs Through It, fly fishing and photography create a very alluring and romantic idea behind the sport. I think it’s becoming very popular because of the content we are sharing. I think it’s a good thing because it gets people outdoors, off the couch and out of the office. It gives people a chance to breathe fresh air – grab that fly rod you got for Christmas 5 years ago, cast it, see how it feels. I want to inspire people to be happy, and to get out on the water. I know what kind of therapy the sport does for me, I want other people to experience that. You don’t need to catch huge fish, just being on the water should put you at ease. Unless you are using a tandem rig and get it caught in a tree…That can be stressful… That’s why I like streamer fishing… lol”

Flylords: Tell us a little about your dogs.

Rebekka: Rebel and Able are my fishing companions. Rebel is 16 years old, and Able is 15 weeks old. They are Blue Heelers and are just incredible dogs. Able is learning the ropes right now, he is my up and coming fishing buddy. Rebel is teaching him how to stay out of the pools and be patient, but he is getting old, it’s a lot of work to make it down to the river these days. He had a great time this summer, but I could see it in his eyes that he was lagging. So I made the choice to get a puppy. I am not sure I could stand not having a Heeler following me around. Now I am remembering what puppies are all about. He tore up the flooring a few days ago, showing me how much spunk he has. They are great fishing dogs, super smart and protective. I keep a bunch of gear in my jeep, and if I run to the store to get something, I know that they will protect my car. They know what my property is and they will give a smokey look to any shady characters. Being a girl, out and about in the backwoods, I need not only a bear dog but someone who can warn me of two-legged critters. Not everyone I meet will be a perfect gentleman.

Flylords: Do you have any Role Models in the Fly Fishing Industry that you look up to?

Rebekka: It’s actually kind of ironic, recently I was asked to join Yellow Dog Fly Fishing’s elite team of travel ambassadors, alongside Jeff Currier, Jako Lucas, and Oliver White. Those are three anglers I have looked up to for a long time. Flip Pallot has also had a huge influence on me, and I can’t forget about the Geobass guys. Chris, Jay, Thad and Brian were all so welcoming, and showed me so much respect from day 1.”

Flylords: Favorite Fish to Catch?

Rebekka: OMG, you would ask me that. I can’t just give you one favorite fish… If I had to choose… Because I love the way they act and I can predict them, it would be the Northern Pike, but BIG northern pike… The over 47-inches. I also love smallmouth bass… and Peacock Bass! – Peacocks are the Giant size colorful version of the smallmouth bass.

Flylords: Have you ever made a list of all the species you have caught…

Rebekka: Hmmm.. I have never made a list! The list has definitely grown over the years. I have a stack of airline tickets that is about two feet high on my shelf. I was looking at a few tickets the other day just going “When Was I There?!”

Since I was a little kid my parents thought travel was one of the best educators you could have.

By the time I was 17, I had been to every state and province. Not because we were wealthy, but because my parents wanted to introduce me to all these cool places and allow me to people to meet new people from around the world. Then they made me do book reports when I got back. Which is kind of what I do now, with my photos and articles after trips. I developed this itch to travel from when I was a young kid.

Flylords: Favorite Movie?

Rebekka: I loved A River Runs Through It… I know that’s really corny… Wait I have a better movie, it should have come to me right away but I have my mind on fly fishing. This is really geeky and dorky of me, but I am a HUGE Jurassic Park Fan… Just the first one tho.

Flylords: Beverage of Choice?

Rebekka: Umm… I don’t really drink too often, but If I do I am very low maintenance, a nice microbrewery lager. I don’t have a particular favorite, I just like to try different beers from the places I visit.

Flylords: Favorite Color?
Rebekka: Red… JK, favorite color is blue. I like the color of the water. But you don’t have to put that in there….

Interview Update:

Rebekka recently returning from an incredibly successful trip to Tanzania, we thought we would throw in a quick update from Rebekka’s trip. Here is a 20 lb Tigerfish from the African Jungle!

Photo: Jeremiah Hamilton / Drift Media productions

Make sure to follow Rebekka on Instagram and Facebook to follow her adventures!

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Mahi-Mahi On Fly in the Mediterranean Sea

Katka Svagrova
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Mahi-mahi A.K.A. dolphin fish, are a non-native species to the Mediterranean sea. They came into these waters from tropical areas due to global warming over the last decade. It’s quite unique to catch Mahi from the beach on a fly rod, and it´s even more interesting that can happen in Croatia!

We travel to different areas of Croatia from Split to Dubrovnik every year, and we are always successful!

To be honest, it doesn’t matter where you are fishing… It’s just important to be patient and have a few good tips from the locals who know what they are doing.

Finding these fish is hard work, days full of casting and searching, but that makes it even more satisfying when you finally see some of these colored beauties cruising through the crystal clear water!

 

I use the 7wt Arcticsilver fly fishing rod and their floating line, with 0.30mm tippet and flies which looks like small baitfish or squid. Sometimes we use spin rods and a popper as a teaser, when we see schools of Mahi it’s time to take the fly rod out.
These fish tend to travel in bigger schools, from 4 fish to hundreds of them! They swim along the beaches and hunt for small mullet, sardines and needlefish. Schools of Mahi are often followed by bluefish. You have to use a wire leader when targeting the blues because with a normal leader you don’t have a chance to win the fight!

Fighting these golden predators is pretty cool, even if they are just babies!

If you would like to know more about this fishery, you can find Katka on Instagram: @katka_svagrova!

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Faces of Fly Fishing: Marc Crapo

Jared Zissu
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Flylords: Who is Von Beardly?

Marc: That’s an excellent question. Von Beardly is just a handle of a guy with a beard who shoots photos/video and likes to fish.

Flylords: I think all the ladies will appreciate this question… How long have you been growing the beard for? Do you trim?

Marc: I’ve been rocking a full-time beard since 2010. I do not trim (generally). The fact is that God gave men and women hair for a reason. I don’t know all the reasons but I do know that when your hair reaches a certain length that’s all you get and your body can then dedicate all that protein and energy elsewhere instead of into a never-ending hair farm that gets harvested on the daily. The ancient and modern yogis believe that your hair is an appendage of your body and can increase sensitivity spirituality stamina patience and energy. You won’t see me cutting my curly locks anytime soon. Besides, back in the day short hair and shaved faces were signs of conquered people. Slaves if you will. Case in point.

Flylords: When was the first time you picked up a fly rod? How has that moment changed your life?

Marc: I’ve been spin fishing since I was old enough to hold a pole. When I was 21 I dated a woman who wanted me to take her fly fishing (ladies that’s a pretty cool move). She didn’t want to fish. She wanted to watch me fish. And that’s just what we did. From that moment on it became my favorite way to catch a fish.

Flylords: How long have you been in the fly fishing industry, how did it all begin?

Marc: I did my very first gear reviews and promotional photos in 2004. Fisknat Nets, Korkers boots, and Cliff Fly Boxes. The catalyst for me was the washingtonflyfishing.com forum. I think many of us spent more time on that website than we did actually working at full-time jobs.

Flylords: If you were stranded on a tropical Island and only had one fly and one rod what would they be? Also, you can choose one celebrity to accompany you…

Marc: Of course since that would mean saltwater I would have a 12wt. LOOP Cross S1 and a LOOP Opti BIG reel. The fly would be a Clouser. No doubt about it. My celebrity sidekick would be Brad Pitt of course. At some point early on we would probably come to blows and after I choked him out we would be BFFs. Besides, the movie that they would make about us would be epic.

Flylords: Speaking of celebrities, do you have any role models in the fishing industry?

Marc: Hmmmm that’s a good question. If Toshiro Mifune fly fished he would be my number 1. But since he was more of a Samurai than a fly fisher I have to default to Frank Smethurst. I’m really not a fanboy but ever since I saw Running Down the Man I wanted to meet Frank. He’s just as cool in person as he is in the movies.

Flylords: You seem to have quite the appetite for insects. What is your favorite bug to eat, and why?

Marc: No doubt Green Drakes. They taste like fresh almonds.

Flylords: Many of us have heard the stories about the Legendary Neck Beard, tell us a little about your relationship with him. 

Marc: Oh boy where do I start? Imagine a cross between an Apparition, Sasquatch, Ichabod Crane, Horace Greeley, and Barney Fife and that one annoying know it all friend who won’t stop talking, but who is actually a total Expert and has wicked accurate deadly intel on all things fishing.

What is our relationship like? Well, I certainly did not like him when I first met him, He was fishing in my run. But he grew on me. He doesn’t have a cell phone and doesn’t own a tv or a computer so he’s a little hard to get a hold of. If you need to find him your best bet is to lurk around the lower Henry’s Fork during the Months of March April and May.

 

Flylords: You are one hell of a photographer… What are some tips you can give an aspiring photographer.

Marc: I think that Brian O’keefe said something to the effect of, “know when to put the rod down and pick the camera up.” I think that’s pretty good advice. From me: Good Camera Bodies are easy to come by. None of the big camera companies are making junk these days. Get yourself a good body and invest your Money in high quality lenses. While I think that having a pro quality zoom lens with auto focus is essential I also think that doing research on and acquiring vintage manual focus lenses that are adaptable to modern camera bodies can be a game changer for filming and photography especially for landscapes. Most of my best selling landscapes have been shot with vintage manual focus lenses.

Flylords: Favorite Camera/Lens Combo?

Marc: That’s a tough one. At the moment for the money Olympus M5 markii and the 40-150 Pro lens.

Flylords: Favorite Movie?

Marc: Hhmmmm, it’s a tie: Jeremiah Johnson, For a Fist Full of Dollars and the Samurai Trilogy the Story of Miamoto Musashi.

Flylords: The craziest fishing trip you have been on?

Marc: Definitely the Costa Rica Challenge. You’ll have to google it.

Flylords: One bucket list trip?

Marc: Giant Trevally, Christmas Island

Flylords: Whats next in the life of Marc Crapo?

Marc: I’ve recently Joined April Vokey and Mikey Weir as an Ambassador for the International Fly Fishing Film Festival. I will have a film in the 2017 Film Festival and will be hosting a number of shows around the US. I will also be putting together, for release online, Episode 1 of The Beard Chronicles: The Legend of Neckbeard. So watch for that in 2017.

P.S. after 41 years of solo hunting I met the woman of my dreams and we were married in July 2016.

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