Get Outside

Addictive Behaviors

2012-02-10T08:34:00.002-05:00

Read a magazine article last night about a woman's 20-year battle with her addiction to prescription painkillers. Horrific story, but eventually she gets help and is, thus far, clean and sober.

This is a reminder of how fortunate I am. I clearly have some addictive traits - a quick wander into my basement Man Land will clarify that. Ran into a good deal on an Orvis Mirage reel - BANG, now I own three. And like any good addict, I can rationalize all three. First was for my Scott ARC 1287-3 spey rod which deserved a nice reel. Then I decided that since my Scott A3 switch rod is my main Winter stick, the Mirage's sealed drive would be a benefit over the previous Ross Momentum. Finally, I've been seeking some nice reel bling for my 6-wt. all-rounder, so why not a Mirage 3? Addict. Can't stop myself.

And, do I just own one pair of skis like a rational Midwesterner who skis a half-dozen days in-state and perhaps 3-5 out West? Oh, no -- I have my all around skis and a nice pair of Line Prophet 100's.

My learning is similarly addictive. Once I start down a path I want to try all the permutations and see how many I can master. Like to fly fish for steelhead? Better figure out indicator fishing, swinging, high-sticking, and more. Perfect. Right up my alley.

While I've certainly been through periods where I may have been drinking more and more often than I should have, that's about the extent of my harmful addiction. Owning a dozen fly rods is far better than being whacked out on Vicodin. I am indeed fortunate.

-Sean-

Mad Skillz

2012-02-06T11:43:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was reorganizing the "demo flies" tied during the Schultz Outfitters "Bar Flies" demo classes and noticed something interesting. My tying skills have improved considerably over the past year. Flies from the early classes last season look like crap compared to what I've been tying this year.

It shows up in so many places - feather placement, body proportions and balance, and most noticeably in the head finish. Wow do those old flies look SAD! By comparison, the heads on the new ones are tight and crisp (and don't look like they'll unravel after a single fish).

This motivated me to go back and have a look at some other flies I'd done. The pattern was the same with others. For example, my early examples of Sean's Half A$$ Stonefly look crude and kludgy. Though I have caught fish on them - but we'll chalk that up to luck. The new ones look sleek, and (God forbid) something like an actual stonefly!

One of the things that motivates me in my outdoor passions is the opportunity to improve my skill set. So, this new discovery was certainly a welcome surprise!

Some of this growth is the result of spending hours at the vise, but more of it is having access to some great instruction. I've been fortunate enough to learn from well-known tiers like April Vokey (above), Kevin Feenstra, and Greg Senyo. As well as up-and-comers like Mike Schultz, Jon Ray, Steve Martinez, Tommy Lynch, Eirik Vitso, Jay Daley, and Chris Hatcher.

By putting this all together, I really do feel like I've learned a TON! One of the best acknowledgements was a couple weeks back at Tommy's class, my Dad fell a couple of steps behind. I was able to lean over and catch him up. Tommy saw this and commented later on my growth as a tyer. Nice props from a serious tyer and fisherman.

-Sean-

Orvis Kudos

2012-02-03T10:58:00.001-05:00

Regular readers will know I usually don't have a ton positive to say about Orvis. While they are the 900# gorilla of fly fishing, I've found many of their products to be disappointing.

I think this started with my Silver XT waders. In addition to a truly lousy fit, the two layers at the knees did a nice "Michelin Man" fill up. Not exactly functional, and often dangerous.

For me, they've looked like a company whose products were coasting. They lacked current features, and just seemed to be outpaced by others in the market.

But something's going on out there in Vermont...

If you haven't seen the newish line of Mirage reels, give them a look. Way cool styling. Completely sealed, bulletproof drag. And, nice light weight. I've ended up with three of them - in sizes 3 (main trout rod), 5 (steelhead switch rod), and 6 (spey rod). They're pricey as Orvis reels have traditionally gone, but when you start comparing to Nautilus, Abel, and other similar brands, they start to look very competitive. Clearly someone in development got the message. I hear the Hydros are pretty good, too.

They've also upgraded the rod line. Sure, the Helios is a rock start. But, let's be real -- they start at $800. Ouch. But last year they brought the Helios profile to the affordable Access line. Heard a ton of good about those, too. Unfortunately, I'm Scott loyal. I'm not switching.

Good work, Orvis -- keep at it!

-Sean-

Quest for Stone

2012-01-31T16:04:00.000-05:00

For Spring steelhead, stoneflies are among my favorites. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a pattern that I can tie in a reasonable amount of time. Most are too intricate, take too many steps, and require too many different materials.

So, for the past year or so, I've been playing with inventing my own. The early prototypes were based on a green Caddis nymph I've had some success with. So basically, the program has been:

Daiichi 1120 egg hook in #10 size
Wrap a thread base, using black thread
Tie in some medium black vinyl D-rib
Bring thread forward to about the 2/3 point
Wrap D-rib forward and tie off
Apply black dub to thread and tie forward to the eye
Apply two pairs of rubber legs, one on each side of the hook.
Whip or half-hitch finish

OK, so I've caught a fish or two on this one, but it just looks like a kludge. I think my basic idea's solid, I just need to start finessing the execution. The finished fly seems heavy handed. So, here's where I'm headed...

Swapped out the rubber legs for some MUCH thinner silicone silli legs. These seem far more proportional. Tied a few last weekend and it seemed to help.
While I love the strength and sharpness of the Daiichi 1120's for eggs, they just seem too short-shanked to deliver the right proportions. So yesterday when I had some time to kill between appointments, I picked up a 2x heavy, curved hook with a bit longer shank. This should enable a longer proportional balance.
Standard black dubing looks so, well, blah. Picked up some black ice dub that has a nice sheen and variability.

Hoping to find some time to tie later this week and try out these improvements. We'll see. But I was also talking to my buddy Jay recently and he evidently has a killer pattern that's super easy to tie. May get that recipe tomorrow night.

I think this "engineering" facet of fly tying is what appeals to me. Answering questions like, "How do I get that bulk up front and not thoughout", or "Does that look like something in the wild?" keep me entertained.

-Sean-

Kid in a Candy Store

2012-01-25T08:50:00.000-05:00

Last week while in Vegas on business, had the opportunity to spend a day at the Shot Show. This annual event, put on by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, is a trade show dedicated to the industry. For folks in firearms/law enforcement industry, this is THE show.

For the enthusiast like me, it's like combining every gun shop you know of into one place. I had the opportunity to see almost anything I could be interested in. Including some things you might never see in a shop ($160,000 Blaser 4-gun shotgun set, anyone?).

My highlights included:

Remington 1911 R1 in stainless steel. I've been waiting for this one and now the time seems to have arrived. Solid basic 19111 that should shoot well out of the box, but will also serve as a platform for performance enhancements. That's now on the Wish List.
CZ full-line booth; I'm a big CZ fan, but dealers are few and far between. And when you do find a dealer, most only stock a few high-volume models. Had the chance to compare my CZ Canvasback O/U to the others in the line-up. I actually preferred my no-frills, visually simple model to more expensive alternatives like the Wingshooter. Too garish for my tastes.
Browning Citori 725 Sporting; in a word: WOW! I've always loved this series from Browning since I picked up my first 525 Citori. The grip swell is outstanding and the ergonomics of these are second to none I've tried. Sadly, I'm no investing that much in a shotgun. For me, that would be like owning a $90,000 sports car - just wouldn't get used enough.
Remington 1911 grip hunting knife; what a cool idea! A hunting knife based on the grips of the proven 1911 handgun. I need one.

Fortunately, as a trade show, I couldn't buy anything off the floor!

-Sean-

Can Fish Climb Trees?

2012-01-23T12:53:00.000-05:00

I promised some updates from recent steelhead fly fishing antics. On December 30th, I had the good fortune to spend the day in Capt. Jon Ray's boat. Due to some scheduling complexities it ended up just the two of us, so Jon joined in on the fishing fun. A string of unseasonably warm weather made for a productive and entertaining day.

The highlight of my day, and perhaps the 2011 steelhead season, was the Tree Fish.

We set-up on a hole on the Manistee river beneath a large tree. Naturally as my indicator drifted under the tree, it happened - Bob Down! Thwap! A quick hookset and I was off to the races with a solidly hooked steelhead.

But just fighting the fish and landing it would be too simple for me. Now, I've got the line tangled in the low-hanging tree. Fortunately, the bowed limb is putting enough pressure on the fish to keep him on. Jon and I have shared a boat a fair bit, and we've seen some chaos. So he calmly jumped up on the back deck and sent me scrambling for the anchor control. I moved the boat down to the tree as Jon untangled the line. As soon as it was free, I plunged the rod tip into the river to keep the line free. Awesome -- still FISH ON!

Sensing possible freedom, my fish makes a run for it. So I let him have some line. Meanwhile, Jon's extracted the boat from the tree and we're back out in the river channel.

But does the story end here with a simple netting, a quick pic and a release? Of course not...

20 feet below the first tree, is a second. And, this tree isn't just close to the water's surface, a significant portion is below. Just as Jon and I look downriver we see a fish jump on the downstream side of the second tree.

At this point, there's a long uncomfortable pause. Jon turns to me and offers, "I sure hope that's not your fish...". Of course, it was, so off we go again.

This time with all the tree below the water's surface, the only option is to shove the rod tip into the water and begin to muscle the fish out of the wood. Did I mention this was all on 6 pound tippet? Yeah, so we had that going for us.

Somehow with a little fancy rod work, I manage to extract the the fish. Jon puts on his best display of netsmanship with a one-scoop score and we boat a colorful specimen. After a few pictures and a careful release, it is decided that perhaps it is time to explore the beer I have in my cooler...

-Sean-

Why We Swing

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

This sweet new vid from Jonny Ray's Mangled Fly Media pretty much says it all. The tug is the drug, baby!

Steelhead versus streamer from Mangled Fly Media on Vimeo.

Mmmmm ... Toasty!

2012-01-13T11:30:00.002-05:00

Patagonia is rapidly becoming a new favorite brand for me this year. I've always liked their advertising efforts, and their consisten commitment to sustainability. But I never really "got" their products. My brand association for them would have been, "green" and "expensive". I always felt the pejorative nickname "Patagucci" suited them. But that's all changed now...

This year I've added some cold weather gear from Patagonia. It started with a Nano-Puff Pullover. Then I added a Retro-X windproof fleece. And recently, I scored a deal on a Down Sweater Hoody.

I know a few folks on the Patagonia Pro Staff and all have shared a similar sentiment - "If you want to be warm in miserable conditions, it's Patagonia." And now I get it. despite its whisper thin bulk, the Nano-Puff is a super-warm insulating layer that fits perfectly and easily stows in a pocket. The Nano-Puff caused me to want the Down Sweater Hoody for super-cold situations. I was looking for a mid-layer that would deliver extreme warmth, and still fit under a shell. Found it.

Finally, the Retro-X was a bargain find at the Patagonia outlet in Dillon, Montana. I've written plenty about windproof fleeces, but this is one of the coolest I've found. The "furry" feel looks cool and draws complements, while staying very warm. It's totally windproof.

But you'll notice repetition of one phrase, "scored a deal...". This stuff isn't cheap. But now that I've got some hours in outside in my Patagonia gear, I must say that paying the price will be far less painful in the future. Every piece of Patagonia I currently have significantly exceeds my expectations. Highly recommended!

-Sean-

Technology Review: Columbia Omni-Heat Reflective

2012-01-11T12:42:00.000-05:00

As a marketer, I see a lot of gimmicks. Hell, I've probably even a created a few of them myself. The outdoor industry is rich with marketing gimmicks. In an effort to create differentiation, new technologies join the fray every year. Some stick (rockered skis) and others crater (remember top-entry ski boots?).

Columbia Sportswear is clearly a company with tremendous marketing skill. They've grown at a fast-pace to quickly dominate many of the segments they sell to. Columbia's advertising is both attention-grabbing and on-brand. Its web site is well executed and easy to use. And, they're the masters of branding. When their engineers come up with something new, they've immediately got a name and a marketing push behind it.

So, my first encounters with the company's Omni-Heat Reflective materials were skeptical. I mean, seriously, it looks like a jacket lined with aluminum foil. I understand the principle -- reflecting heat means retaining it. Decades of Space Blankets have proven this principle. But Space Blankets are crinkly noisy and they breathe like a Hefty bag.

But now that I have three different pieces incorporating this technology, I have to say the company's claims of "20% warmer" appear to be fact. This stuff is noticably warmer than comparable alternative materials. My first Omni-Heat Reflective piece was a full-zip fleece jacket. Very stylish design, but what stood out immediately was that its WARM. When compared to my older The North Face windproof fleece, or my Browning Hell's Canyon jacket the Columbia jacket is EASILY 20% warmer, if not more.

In addition, the reflective layer seems to have no effect on breathability and even seems to improve wind resistance (although NOTHING tops my Simms Windstopper Fleece Hoodie for its wind-busting abilities). While wearing the jacket, the relective layer is silent and doesn't change the feel of the garment.

Since then, I've added an insulated hunting jacket and bibs with the technology. Both are similarly incredibly warm, quiet and breathable.

If you're a cold weather freak like I am, I would highly recommend checking out this new technology. I'm a fan!

-Sean-

I Want One

2012-01-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I know you don't NEED a reel with a drag system this advanced for the majority of trout. Yeah, I know it's mostly just a line holder. But this thing is a BEAST. Just what my new 6-weight Scott A4 will need for Montana next Fall.

Kudos to Ross for a true next-generation reel. I had the chance to handle one at the Fish Hawk in Atlanta last Fall. This thing is da' bomb.

Whirlwind

2012-01-10T09:22:00.003-05:00

Sorry it's been quiet here for a couple of weeks -- busy Holiday season, tons to do at work, plus I was outside DOING STUFF!

Pleny to write about, so stay tuned!

-Sean-

Playing the Over Under

2012-01-03T08:52:00.000-05:00

From the time I got serious about hunting and clay shooting, I've wanted a double-barrel over-under shotgun. The break-open action is super simple, as is cleaning and maintenance. But more important is tradition - a double has been the gun of choice for upland hunting for year. Plus, there's just something about the feel of an over-under. The way it balances, how it fits in your hand, and the way it comes easily up to and connects to your shoulder and cheek.

Then economics come into play...

My natural instinct would be to start with one of the storied "B" guns -- Beretta, Benelli, or Browning. I've had the opportunity to shoot a Browning Citori Sporting Clays as well as a Beretta Silver Pigeon. Both felt perfect in-hand and shot extremely well. But at $3,500 and $2,000 respectively, there's no way for a casual shooter with a day job (that's me) to justify such an extravagant purchase.

But wait a minute - if I don't shoot often enough to justify this expense, maybe I don't need the ultimate durability and level of finish these guns deliver. Perhaps a lesser alternative would work? I've seen plenty of used Remington Baikals, as well as the Stoeger Condor. Neither impresses me. The Baikals have some goofy features and that level of Russian machining that's decidedely underwhelming. I've owned another Stoeger. Let's just say you get what you pay for at the extreme low end.

Then I remembered CZ - my CZ 452 .22 bolt-action is a great gun that I got for a great price. Fit and finish are decent, it's been very reliable and accurate. Unlike its rifles, which are made in CZ's Czech Republic factory, their shotguns come from Huglu in Turkey. After some quick online research, I find the CZ Canvasback. This model includes a single trigger (cheaper models feature doubles - I've done that and didn't care for it), ejectors, and a nice level of fit and finish. A friend I hunt with frequently has had a CZ side-by-side and been extremely happy with it.

A little online research shows that Cabelas has this model for less than MSRP, and it's on sale for two more days! Road trip! I also took advantage of this opportunity to clean out the gun safe. As the new over-under will become my Upland field gun, I no longer need my Stoeger Uplander side-by-side. While its served me well, I've never liked the double triggers. These force a larger trigger guard which I've found beats up the base of my index finger pretty badly. And my Remington 11-48 and I have never gotten along since it's purchase a couple years back. While its operation is smooth and reliable, I've always had trouble shooting it well. Fortunately, Cabelas was very short on used firearms and was all too happy to take these off my hands.

Immediately upon picking up the Canvasback I could tell this was a winner. Balances well, feels good in-hand, and points nicely. Not too heavy, nor too light. Sold!

More to come after I put this gun through its paces a bit more...

-Sean-

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T10:44:00.003-05:00

With my day job closed for the Holidays last week, I was pretty much unplugged from all things digital. However I did have many outdoor-related activities last week -- look for future posts on these antics.

With a new year come new opportunities here are a few things that I know are on my horizon:

Early January steelhead expedition with my Dad
Montana trout-chasing in the early Fall
Some skiing, if it ever snows here...
UP steelhead trip around the trout opener; including taking along two newbies who think they might be interested in fly fishing
Lots more cycling; never did find my groove last year
Potential Spring trip to Utah
Learning to row my raft and exploring new waters

Much like New Year's resolutions, I find it useful to have a goals list for my outdoor activities. This enables me to better utilize my limited spare time (damn day job...) so I get the most out of it. I'm also working on some 2012 goals. More to come on those.

Happy New Year! Hope you're making plans to get outside in the new year.

-Sean-

Quality Time

2011-12-21T14:30:00.000-05:00

Spent yesterday duck hunting on the Canadian side of Lake St. Clair with good friends Jon and Dan. Though we got skunked (again!), it was still a great day. Which was a reminder of the other benefits of spending time outdoors with your friends and family.

I've spent considerable time outdoors with these guys - hunting ducks and pheasants, fishing for steelhead, salmon, trout, and musky, as well as shooting sporting clays. We always have a blast, no matter the conditions or outcomes. Spending a day in a boat, field, or river with these guys never fails to produce some entertaining moments and create memories.

I have so many friends I'm fortunate to spend time with outdoors. And one of the key side benefits is that you get to know each other in ways you'd never accomplish at a party, in a meeting, or in some similar setting. My Dad and I have gotten great time and grown closer both on our outdoor adventures and travelling to these same adventures. Jon and I had a great chat about life, New Year's Resolutions and much more on our trek back from Canada yesterday.

Not to sound sappy, but cherish those outdoor buddies - the value of the time you spend with them is far greater than the fish you caught, the ducks you shot, or the number of Black Diamond runs completed.

-Sean-

Product Review: Columbia Stuttgart 1000 Hunting Boot

2011-12-16T12:01:00.002-05:00

Last year I picked up a pair of Columbia Stuttgart 1000 hunting boots. I purchased them for duck hunting, fishing from a boat, and other cold-weather antics after I realized that I had boots that were warm and boots that were waterproof - but none that were both!

The boots were plenty roomy, so I added a pair of wool footbeds to ensure warmth and comfort. A great addition!

I'm very pleased with these boots! I've fished all day in January, hunted all day in November, and even worn them to a couple of college football tailgates. Everytime they're warm and dry. As an added bonus, despite being a slip-on booth, they're amazingly supportive. My feet and back felt great, even after a day standing on an aluminum boat! Paired with my Columbia wool bibs, they're a super-toasty combo!

If you don't have a pair of insulated rubber boots like these, I highly recommend them for a wide range of outdoor activities.

-Sean-

Rites of Passage

2011-12-14T13:40:00.000-05:00

Was thinking the other day about some of the cool outdoor things I've been fortunate enough to do in the past few years. This got me thinking about "rites of passage" -- that is, those achievements that make you feel like you've arrived at the next level. For me, a few include:

Catching my first steelhead solo; without a guide's help.
Skiing my first Western black diamond run.
Shooting my first pheasant.
Powdering my first clay with a shotgun.
Catching a fish on a fly I tied.
Getting a steelhead on the swing.
My first outing with a guide where the guide mostly worked with the other guy; making it clear they could tell I needed the help less.
Performing a complete tear-down on a shotgun by myself and having it all go back together smoothly.
Landing a steelhead unassisted.
Inventing my first fly pattern; and then having it catch fish!

Every one of these events made me feel a profound sense of pride. Some of my love of the outdoors comes in opportunities for growth and mastery. Learning something new feels like such an accomplishment. But you'll never know everything, so those moments when you recognize advancement feel truly special.

Happy trails!

-Sean-

An Evening with a Rising Star

2011-12-12T10:29:00.002-05:00

Had the pleasure to spend an evening with April Vokey, fly gal, steelhead guide, and noted tier and learning to tie her version of Ed Ward's Intruder flies. April is rapidly building a solid reputation in the Pacific Northwest, and throughout other steelheading regions, as a rising star. So it was a real treat when Schultz Outfitters pulled together a limited seating class with her.

First and foremost - these are not the flies Midwestern steelheaders are used to. The finished product, when tied by someone more gifted than me, is truly a thing of beauty. And these suckers are quite large. Some of the materials are ones we know well, others (like polar bear fur) are going to be new to us.

During the evening April patiently worked with all of us - from newbie tiers, to experienced hands with decades of experience to transform a pile of feathers and fur into a fly that will live and breathe in the river. Most of the colors look like a whorehouse exploded, but all are proven on BC steel. April's patient teaching style and her ability to hang with a room full of guys (drinking beer...) made the evening a genuine pleasure.

One of the most interesting parts was watching how she responded to quizzing from some of the more experienced guys in the room - this lady knows her materials! I watched her stump tiers with multiple patterns in the Orvis catalog. Pretty sharp!

If April comes to your town, be sure to sign up - you'll enjoy AND learn a great deal!

-Sean-

To Conserve and Protect

2011-12-09T09:08:00.000-05:00

An article in this month's issue of Eastern Fly Fishing on the Driftless Area (the intersection of MN, WI, IA, and IL) and the effects of Federal agricultural policy set me to thinking. Like many, I'm skeptical of lobbyists. But this was a good reminder of their value in steering government policy.

Groups like Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, and Trout Unlimited all expend considerable lobbying effort to habitat protection for all of our outdoor passions. And, as we've seen many times over - no habitat means no fish, ducks, pheasants, etc. Whether its agricultural subsidies, dam removal, or natural gas fracking, these groups are working within the government to ensure and influence public policy with the interests of their members in mind. In many ways I feel like they're doing a better job of representing their constituents than the elected officials!

I've even made my peace with the NRA. For a long time, I considered them to be the representatives of the lunatic fringe of gun nuts. What I've come to realize, especially with the current administration in Washington, gun owners need a voice. And the NRA is that voice. While I may not agree with some of the things they advocate, basic protection of the Second Ammendment. I've been learning a bit more about the history of gun owner's rights in Canada and the UK. You're only a stone's throw from having to keep your guns in a locker at the police station, check them in and out, and account for every round of ammunition. I'm fairly certain this isn't what the Founding Fathers wanted for our country.

So, support the groups that represent you at the State and Federal level. If you're counting on your elected representatives to do that, you'll likely be seriously disappointed.

-Sean-

Updated Bucket List

2011-12-08T08:57:00.000-05:00

I love the idea of bucket lists -- they help you keep an eye out for experiences you'd like to have. This year I've been fortunate to tick off a couple. So, here's my latest list:

Catch a legit two-foot trout.
Ski Jackson Hole.
Duck hunt in flooded timber in Arkansas.
Master tying the Intruder fly.
Fish for steelhead in one of the legendary rivers of the Pacific Northwest.
Master the blood knot.
Complete a Half Century ride (cycling)
Shoot a double on pheasants.
Catch a bonefish.
Ski I-75 at Caberfae; it's been a few years since I've had the opportunity.

I think I have legit shots at 2-3 of these this year. We'll see how I do!

-Sean-

Product Review: Simms Windstopper Flap Cap

2011-12-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Everyone keep your arms and legs inside the ride, it's about to get weird...

Yes, I am going to deliver a negative review about a Simms product. I know you thought that scarcely possible, but turns out it is.

Last Winter I picked up a Simms Windstopper Flap Cap for Winter trips. A previous Simms hat had become a favorite, but it was looking pretty worn.

Initial impression was good. Fit well. Warm. Very windproof. As-advertised. But they missed on critical detail. I can't hear ANYTHING with it on. First day I wore it I'm out on Jon Ray's boat with my Dad. Jon offers me some instruction and all I get are lips moving. No sound. Nada. And I hadn't thrown a backup in my bag, so I spent a very quiet day.

I suppose that if you always fish by yourself and want complete solitude, this is one route to that. But if you fish with anyone, you'll never hear them. Plus, I like to be able to count on all five sense in the outdoors and this hat eliminates one of them!

So, note to the excellent folks at Simms - I wasted my money on this one! Should have picked up the Chunk Knit Beanie. As a general rule, I'm not that wild about Windstopper hats. Better to stick with a simplek, densely knit one (my Ibex wool beanie is AWESOME), especially if you want to hear anything.

-Sean-

Learn from My Mistakes

2011-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Recently had a good reminder about a life lesson I've finally learned. A knowledgeable fishing guide friend said, "I'd like to help you avoid all the mistakes I've made by not buying the right gear in the first place..."

So true. Whenever there's been an item I really wanted to add to the quiver, but I cheaped out, I end up regretting the decision. Some fairly simple algebra applies -- it's cheaper to buy the right thing the first time than it is to buy a lower-cost alternative, then replace it with what you wanted in the first place. Even eBay sales seldom recoup that loss.

Next time you're pondering an expense; think it through. If you'll only end up with the more expensive one, just wait and save your money. You'll be glad you did.

-Sean-

Order to Chaos

2011-12-05T10:17:00.001-05:00

A place for everything and everything in its place. Normally my mantra for keeping outdoor gear organized and stored safely. Sadly, one I had not applied to my tying supplies.

All those feathers, furs, beads, and wiggly rubber legs were just in chaos in a few different Rubbermaid storage containers. But I couldn't find much of anything. And, I'd even started buying duplicates. Not good. Time to bring order to chaos.

After pulling everything apart into some rough groupings. Once I did this, I quickly discovered most things fit pretty well into three categories:

Feathers
Furs
Man-Made Materials

Fortunately, everything divided fairly equally (though I do seem to have amassed an outstanding amount of feathers). To keep things even further organized, I grouped some of the man-made stuff together. I found I have a ton or rubber legs, dubbing, and Senyo's shaggy dub (a steelheader's staple!). So each got a Ziploc bag.

The results are awesome! Now I can tell what I have, don't have, or am getting low on at a glance. And when I'm feeling creative, locating that new cool material is a snap. Wish I'd done this a long time ago.

-Sean-

Need for Complexity?

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

I was reflecting with a friend over lunch about how many of my good friends are as obsessive as myself, especially regarding outdoor interests.

Several times I've told people that I prefer to fish on the fly because I need to make things as complex as possible. A wary steelhead won't think twice about striking a spawn bag -- that looks and smells like real food. But you've really got to outsmart that same fish to hit a piece of belly-button lint tied to a hook.

Same happens with my mountain bike. When I tell people I ride a single-speed with no suspension they look at me as if I have three heads. When I look inward, it DOES seem a bit odd. But I love my single and wouldn't trade it for the world.

I'm also continually tweaking my gear for that "little bit better". As I wait for the warranty replacement on my Scott 6-weight, I'm already pondering whether a nice reel than my Ross CLA would be appropriate for my all-around trout stick. Maybe a Hatch 5-Plus or a Ross Evolution... or maybe a Ross F1.All for a trout reel. I've routinely fought trout up to 20" simply by stripping them in without ever even going to the reel!

In the end, I think it comes down to a simple core part of my personality. I like a challenge with room for improvement. Even as a kid, I got bored pretty quickly. Just ask my parents about Parent-Teach Conferences. Same story every year -- "Sean's not working up to his potential". But when I am engaged by something where I can learn and grow, it fulfills me, challenges me, and just plain makes me happy. In my educational career, I proved that. Despite being a consistent lower-middle-of-the-pack-student throughout K-12, I completed a Master's degree with a 4.0 GPA - because I was engaged, challenged, and things had the complexity they needed to keep me engaged. So, in the end, I think that need for complexity is hard wired to keep me interested, motivated, and fulfilled.

-Sean-

Choke Artist

2011-11-29T16:19:00.001-05:00

With the new Remington Versa Max shotgun, I've been discovering the wonderful world of interchangeable choke tubes and their effect on shot patterning. While I'd settled on Improved Cylinder for sporting clays, most of my recent shooting has been in hunting situations. This presents some interesting challenges. For one, clays behave in a predictable way. Ducks and rabbits do not.

For now, I've settled on Improved Modified. It seems to pattern well at 35 yards, which has been good for ducks over decoys. But it's likely this weekend rabbit season will commence. So, now a new challenge - at what distance does THAT shot normally happen? Hmmmm.

These are all nice problems to have. Last year at this time I was doing most of my hunting with a Winchester 1200 that I had only the choke it came with. But it does add a degree of complexity to the whole thing.

-Sean-

Follow-Up Review: Remington Versa Max

2011-11-22T16:29:00.001-05:00

Got in two solid duck hunts with the Remington Versa Max, so thought a follow-up review was in order.

From the hunter's perspective, it's clear this shotgun was designed for the waterfowler. The weight, swing feel, and action seem ideally suited to tracking down and stopping a duck on a smokin' approach.

I find the light pipe fiber optic sight is really helpful for aquiring your target and establishing a solid lead. So far, I haven't swapped out colors, but it seems to me that this will eventually be a solid feature for dealing with varying weather conditions.

Best of all is the soft-shooting action. Remington claims that this 12 gauge has the recoil of a 20 gauge. Thus far, my shooting confirms this. 2-3/4" shells on the sporting clays course were noticably softer, but the real proof was with 3" shells in the layout boat and duck blind. WOW! Only a very small difference versus the lighter 2-3/4". Haven't shot any 3-1/2" shells yet, but eager to see those. Definitely a solid benefit, especially if you throw a lot of steel at ducks.

Interchangeable chokes have been excellent. Being able to swap out based on the decoy spread has been excellent. I seem to be alternating between Modified and Improved Modified as optimum. As time goes on, I'll probably settle on one and adapt my timing to that.

Thus far I've got about 4 boxes of 3" shells and about a case of 2-3/4" through this gun without a single cycling issue. All indications are that this gun should approach the legendary performance of a Benelli.

Hoping to get one more duck hunt in before the snow falls and it's rabbit season. More reports to follow, but VERY happy with my purchase so far!

-Sean-

First Thoughts: Orvis Mirage 6

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

My spey stick's a way-cool classic Scott ARC 128l7-3. Since picking it up, I've gotten many comments and compliments from spey guys in the know.

I needed a reel for it and didn't have anything in the quiver large enough, so I picked up a Ross CLA-6. Certainly a nice enough reel, plenty capable of holding a reasonable amount of backing and a Rio Skagit Short 475 grain line. But, it's got no soul. And just lately, I'm all about rigs with some soul.

I was leaning toward the The Spey Co's Circle Spey reel. Way, cool. Hand-crafted. And you're not likely to run into another one on the river. For the very reasonable price, I think you get a lot of soul.

Somehow a deal always changes things up. And I scored a deal on a gently-used Orvis Mirage 6. This is Orvis' latest generation reel and one that's been getting a good bit of attention in the media. I know several guides who fish them and all say good things. The excellent sealed drag gets high marks, and since reliable performance in sub-freezing temps is a key for me, this was the one for me.

I can't quite put my finger on it, but it's surprisingly heavy for being so light. Or light for being so heavy. And I know that makes little sense. Perhaps the best description is that it's surprisingly robust for how light it is.

Had a chance to look deep into the guts of the sealed drag. Holy crap. No low-tech cork here. A carbon-to-stainless-steel construction uses technology borrowed from fighter jet brakes. Seriously. This thing's the shit. Oh, and swapover to right-hand retrieve was butt-simple.

Gotta' get out and get my swing on. See what happens when a pissed off double-digit steelhead puts the hurt on me. Look for more soon...

-Sean-

Long-Term Product Review: Browning Hell's Canyon Jacket

2011-11-17T08:49:00.001-05:00

I have a couple of years in with my Browning Hell's Canyon jacket and felt it was time for a follow-up review. This was sparked by its performance on a recent layout duck hunt. The day was clammy and overcast. While not super-cold, laying around in a small boat in the mouth of the Detroit River for a few hours can get pretty chilly. Add to that intermittent periods of rain, and you have a recipe for a big chill. But I stayed dry and toasty through it all. Excellent performance - certainly more than I could ask for a jacket that makes few claims as a shell (I don't own a cammo waterproof shell -- that's on the shopping list).

Initially I was concerned about the unfinished neoprene cuffs wearing or getting pulled all the time. That's been no issue. And, it's nice to be able to cinch them down water- and wind-tight. As with the rest of the coat, wears like iron. I've fished, hunted rabbits, pheasant, and ducks in this jacket in almost every condition and this jacket looks like the day I bought it.

Zippers are where you can tell a superior outdoor item. And Browning's on this product are top notch. Works smoothly and neoprene backing gasket keeps out wind and driven rain. Upper chest pockets are nice for frequently accessed small gear.

Highly recommended. If you're looking for a good all-around camo windproof fleece, you can't go wrong here. I paid under a hundred dollars for mine - a bargain for a jacket this good.

-Sean-

Care Instructions on Reverse

2011-11-09T11:09:00.000-05:00

If you spend time outside, outerwear that's well-suited to your pursuit and able to stand up to the elements is key. As such, I've got a closetful of clothing. This represents a significant investment, so taking care of this gear is paramount.

But chucking that $400 GoreTex shell into the washing machine with some Tide and house brand fabric softener will almost immediately clog all those little wonderful pores that let perspiration escape and keep out the elements. The alternative is to just wear the garment until it's utterly disgusting. Yeah, we all know that guy...

What surprises me is how few people seem to know about the process and benefits of laundering waterproof/breathable garments. Even breathable waders can be laundered. The process removes contaminants that negatively impact performance, eliminates odors, removes soiling and stains (mostly), and add life to your garment.

I've had good luck with the Nikwax line, available at REI and other outdoor retailers. The basic process is pretty simple. To begin, it's a good idea to remove all traces of traditional detergent and fabric softener from your washing machine's dispensers. Wash the garment with a cleaner, like Nikwax Tech Wash. Immediately following, wash again in Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In treatment. This second step will renew the waterproof qualities if your garment. Finally, tumble dry on a low setting - a final step that sets the DWR renewal.

The exception to this process are waders. The Simms Fishing web site has an excellent resource here. The washing process is about the same as outlined above. What's different is the process of renewing the DWR waterproofing. The neoprene booties and gravel guards won't stand up to the dryer. Instead, you simply spray them with some Revivex, then dry and set it with a hair dryer.

I've found the results and benefits are totally worth the effort. Recently a Marmot rain jacket was experiencing some leaks in the rain. A quick wash and retreatment of the DWR and now it beads water like a newly waxed car.

-Sean-

What a Dive!

2011-11-08T09:20:00.000-05:00

Spent yesterday bobbing around Lake Erie with my buddy Mike Schultz, one of his friends, and Capt. Brian Meszaros owner of the Diver Down Crew guide service. As this was only my second time out for ducks, and my first time hunting from a layout boat, it was highly anticipated.

What a totally cool experience! The layout boats resemble a shorter, wide kayak. After setting the decoys, each guy is dropped into one layout boat. You scrunch down flat to be invisible and start watching the horizon. Within a few minutes, Schultzy and I had some action, though we both blasted through three rounds with nary a hit.

If you haven't hunted diver ducks, they are FAST. Capt. Brian said bluegills can easily hit 60-70 mph on approach. The challenge is waiting until the very last second, quickly acquiring your target and letting fly. That, and leading them a BUNCH!

I had one confirmed kill, with Schultzy picking up the balance. Afterward, I got a quick lesson in cleaning ducks. Surprisingly simple, actually.

A couple of gear reviews will be forthcoming - this was the first hunt with my Remington Versa Max, and my Browning Hell's Canyon jacket kept me toasty and pretty dry. Great experience! I think I'm going blind hunting in Canada in a couple of weeks, so should be a nice duck season!

-Sean-

Truth in Advertising

2011-11-02T16:20:00.001-04:00

There's a reason its called the VersaMax. I think this video review pretty well covers it. This is about as close to a do-all shotgun as I've found.

Had the opportunity to blow up some clays with mine on Sunday and it continues to perform like a champ. We'll see how it does on the ducks next week on a layout hunt.

-Sean-

Big Sky Country

2011-11-01T11:29:00.003-04:00

I love travelling out West - whether it's Utah, Montana, or Arizona. The whole scale is SO vastly different from what we see in the Midwest. Your entire frame of reference is suddenly skewed. Freight trains with 80 cars suddenly look like toys when set across the vast background of terrain and sky.

Wisely, I took the DSLR along on the Montana trip. I hope you enjoy the results.

Beaverhead River Skyline

Beaverhead River with the Fisheye

Schultzy Chillin' at the Takeout

Tobacco Root Mountains - Snow on the Last Two Days

Jefferson River Vista

More Jefferson River

Secret Tributary up in the Ruby Range

Enjoy; I sure did. I've already booked again for next year!

-Sean-

Strip Club

2011-10-28T14:53:00.000-04:00

Early in my fly fishing entanglement I had the opportunity to see PM guide and guru Tommy Lynch do a demo on stripping streamers on sink tips for trout. All of the newbies in this class found this a bit intimidating and challenging. As I recall, Tommy said something to the effect of, "this is isn't First Grade fishing - more like College". Then he proceeded to stick a nice little trout out of the upper Manistee river.

At the time, I thought this was pretty interesting, but I was still struggling with basics like how to tie on a fly and tell the difference between a dry and a nymph. Plus, I was more focused on steelhead and trout were just a fun diversion.

Fast forward a few years and hundreds of river hours to this year. After signing up for a Montana trip that was principally to be about streamers, guide and friend Jon Ray recognized we needed to get my game up. So we spent a day early this Spring floating the Manistee and learning how to cast, spot good water, and so many other minute details to ensure I was able to represent Michigan well in Big Sky Country.

Thanks largely to Jon's patient expert guidance, my trip to Montana was a rousing success. I arrived confident I wouldn't make a complete fool of myself. On my first streamer float, on the Beaverhead river, I was quickly able to spot my opportunities and deliver a streamer right on the money. The result? I caught some nice fish! No monsters, but I did crack a nice just-under-20" brown and an 18-1/2" rainbow, among many others.

A few pointers that really helped me:

Don't just watch your target spot; keep one eye on what's coming and time your casts. If there's a decent hole and followed by one that's just MONEY without enough time to set-up a second cast, hold off.
A quick roll cast is a nice way to get all that heavy line back to the surface and set you up for a solid next cast.
Unless you hook a monster, stay off the reel. Strip 'em in fast and hard once they hit.
Don't slow down when you get a chase (the natural reaction). Trout are fast, if they want it, they'll catch up.

So now, a few years later, I feel like I'm in the club - not necessarily elite, but light years ahead of the masses. Funny, I've even managed to become more of a trout guy. In fact, my goal for next season is a legit two-footer -- I've gotten a lake-run that big, but it was a bonus on a Winter steelhead day.

New Chapter

2011-10-24T10:35:00.000-04:00

Last week I added an excellent tool to my fishing arsenal. A boat.

For some time I've been debating getting a drift boat. But I've had a lot of concerns. First, it's a lot of money - at least $4,000 for a decent boat and trailer. Would I use it enough? What about storage? Can I take it solo? What about rivers without good launches? All of these issues, and more had me standing on the sidelines.

But a boat opens up so much for to me. I can fish longer stretches. Get to waters without walk-in public access. And strip streamers off the front of the boat. All big advantages.

Enter the floaty boat. Some friends have turned me on to the virtues of rafts. Lightweight, durable, great in low water, can be launched almost anywhere. And, most tear down in into a suitecase-sized package.

Fortunately, a guide friend had a lightly used FishCat 13 that needed a good home after he upgraded to a larger three-man raft. A good price was offered and a deal struck.

This weekend I did my first float on the Huron River. I've spent my fair bit of times in others boats, but I've never rowed on my own. So, I was understandably a bit nervous.

Not to worry -- this boat rows like a champ! I can virtually stay in one place and spin it in a 360. Fished a bit off the front platform and found that convenient and comfortable.

I think this will be a great solution for me. Easy to store, easy to row, rugged, and with a reasonable investment. Sweet!

-Sean-

Simms Windstopper Hoody - Follow-Up Review

2011-10-21T16:51:00.000-04:00

After a week in Montana, this jacket REALLY proved it's worth, so I thought a follow-up review was in order.

Fly fishing in the Fall really puts outdoor gear to the test. You never know what you're going to encounter - high winds, bone-chilling temps, rain, even snow. A jacket that's durable and versatile can make the difference between toasty and miserable.

The Simms Windstopper Softshell Hoody handles it all. For as lightweight as it feels, it's surprisingly warm. And the Gore-Tex Windstopper lives up to it's name; stops even high Western winds dead in their tracks. Surprisingly, it also seems to breathe better than other windproof fleeces I own. Credit the Gore-Tex materials, I suppose.

Our last day was a perfect example of the effectiveness of this garment. 45 degrees, 20 mph winds with gusts over 30, and intermittent rainshowers. Although I had my Simms G4 rain jacket in my bag, I never even bothered to take it out. The Windstopper Softshell Hoody kept me warm and dry all day.

One thing I love about Simms garments universally is the cut. Obviously this is a company of fly fishing fanatics who make gear for fly fishing fanatics. And this jacket is no exception. It's got movement you need for casting, reach mends, and landing fish, without being baggy.

If you fish in cooler conditions, you need one of these. Whether you think you do or not. Kudos to Simms for a great product.

-Sean-

Big Sky - Part 1

2011-10-18T09:01:00.001-04:00

The first week of October I was able to tick off a Bucket List item - fishing out West. Spent a phenomenal week with the Stonefly Inn & Outfitters crew. The trip was put together by Mike Schultz of Schultz Outfitters and included many SO regulars.

We landed in Bozeman late morning and Dan "Rooster" Leavens, head honcho (really -- it says it on his business card) and another guide picked us up for the drive to Twin Bridges. The scenery was truly stunning; a valley in the midst of the Beaverhead and Tobacco Root mountains made for some amazing vistas.

The Stonefly's configuration is just about ideal - a half-dozen two-person cabins surround "The Roost". The Roost is the central gathering point with a huge screened porch, and a cozy kitchen/gathering room. Everyone eats together at a big table - a very cool opportunity to get to know your companions, swap fishing lies, and enjoy the excellent food that the Stonefly serves up.

That afternoon Mike and I enjoyed an unseasonably warm half-day float on the nearby Jefferson river with Rooster. With sunny skies and few clouds, the fishing was tough. But the scenery, the company, and a few locally brewed IPA's made it a fantastic experience. Fishing Montana in October in flip-flops doesn't suck one bit, either!

That evening found our crew of a dozen all gathered for another excellent meal, followed by some time around the campfire. Not bad for a travel day!

Monday, we set out for the Beaverhead River. Most guidebooks list the Beaverhead as one of the most fish-rich rivers in the region. Another bright sunny day kept the fishing tough, but we did turn a few on streamers. I was thankful for the instruction this year from guide and friend Jon Ray - my streamer game was solid after his coaching. Slow fishing caused us to jump over to the Big Hole river where fishing was a bit better and the scenery up in the Ruby mountains was even more breathtaking.

Unfortunately a little in-boat swordfight resulted in a casualty - the tip of my Scott A2 6-weight. Time for my first test of the much-lauded Scott warranty. On the upside, I got the chance to fish the new Scott A4 6-weight. The difference from my A2 was truly astounding. That extra stiffness really helped me with throwing larger dry flies. One of these sticks is certainly in my future.

More to follow...

-Sean-

Product Review: Simms Dry Creek Rolltop Backpack

2011-10-11T13:43:00.000-04:00

Just back from 6 days of chasing trout in SW Montana. Lots of stories to tell, observations to share, and lessons learned. But first, a product review...

While packing for the trip I decided that a good waterproof bag for use in the boat would be a wise investment. I have an older Orvis Safe Passage backpack. While it's a great product, it's not even remotely weatherproof. Backpacks have proven a very convenient solution as a carry-on for the flight. And a waterproof backpack is easy to throw in the boat.

A visit to a local shop turned up a model by Patagonia as well as one from Sage. Both too pricey. I can't justify over $200 just for a bag. The Simms Dry Creek Daypack was initially intriguing, but ultimately I don't feel like it's large enough for my intended use. While it may be a fine hike/fish solution, it won't hold my small camera bag, a rainjacke, an extra layer or two, and the other gear I'd want for a day fishing from a boat.

Enter the Simms Dry Creek Rolltop Backpack. Just like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, this one is JUST right! Not the mammoth Guide size, nor as tiny as the Daypack. A waterproof exterior pocket affords easy access to frequently used items. The simple rolltop provides a simple, leakproof solution that won't fail like a zipper can.

After a week bouncing around in drift boats in the rain and wind the contents of this excellent bag were dry and protected. And I could readily get my DSLR with two lenses, a couple of spare spools, a rain jacket, a spare fleece and more in with room to spare.

So, if you need a well-made, waterproof, durable bag that's easy to transport, I highly recommend this excellent piece of gear.

-Sean-

Product Review: Remington Versa Max

2011-09-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Now that I've had my Remington Versa Max for a few months, I feel like it's time to share some of my experiences. As I acquired this gun in the Spring, I've not had the chance to hunt with it yet. Thus far my experiences have been with sporting clays.

First a word about my goals for this gun. My goal was an all-around gun that would perform many tasks well. I wanted to be able to shoot clays with light target loads, 3-1/2" steel for waterfowl, and #6 game loads for rabbits and pheasants. In short, a Swiss Army Knife of guns. One that I could shoot often enough to find a reliable mount and get comfortable with the results. Initially I lusted for an over-under, but I quickly realized that a synthetic autoloader was far more likely to suit my needs.

All new guns get a tear-down, a thorough scrub to eliminate the factory lube/protectant, and a re-lube with appropriate gun oil and grease at key points. I've found this step both helps with performance/reliability and gives me some insight into how this particular firearm operates. The Versa Max is impressive in this regard; the mechanical design is simple and logical. Everything strips down easily and mostly without tools. And it all goes back together without holding the stock at a 15 degree angle while holding down this tang, pushing up on that knob and being done only under a full moon. the Try-Nite coated barrel and nickel-teflon plated internal components mean a long life in the worst conditions.

But will that dog hunt? In a word - YUP! First day out for clays I found a gun that mounts cleanly and consistently. Butt end of the stock hits the shoulder pocket consistently and my cheek's right where it should be. As all good shotguns should, it shoots where you point it. And yes, I've had some that don't...

Surprisingly, despite the 8# total weight the Versa Max feels far more nimble than expected for a gun that seems to have been designed principally for waterfowl. I'm eager to try it for upland hunting this Fall. A day of brush busting for grouse should tell if this early impression holds.

If this all sounds overwhelmingly positive, that's because it is. I've had the opportunity to handle and shoot competitive offerings and all had some significant concerns for me - whether ergonomics, design, or features.

However, I do have two issues with the Versa Max. The first is probably a matter of personal preference. The fore-end is a free floating design. I expect that with pump-action shotguns, but it's my first experience with an autoloader. I can't find any drawback to it, I'm just not used to how it feels. Time should cure that.

The second was a design flaw which Remington quickly rectified. On more first outings I found the magazine nut loosening after a half-dozen or so rounds. I needed to give it a half-turn or more after each stand. This was both annoying and looked like a great opportunity to loose some parts in the field. After contacting Remington, they sent me a new retainer nut and magazine cap. The results were immediate and obvious -- problem solved! The reality of new products is that design issues happen. What separates the good companies from the mediocre is how they address known issues. Remington responded quickly and solved my issue completely. Can't ask for more than that.

Look for a more extensive review later this year when I've had the opportunity to get the Versa Max out in the field chasing rabbits, pheasants, and other small game. If you're looking for a solid autoloader, the Versa Max should be a serious consideration.

Poetic License

2011-09-28T16:59:00.000-04:00

Hopped online today and picked up a 10-day Montana fishing license. I love adding a new license to my wallet. It's sort of like those RVs you see with the US map and all the states they've visited marked. Plus, it's a great reminder of some fantastic outdoor experiences.

Like my first time duck hunting on Walpole Island in Canada. Just the obtaining the license was a comedy of errors - from the First Nation guide who no-showed and sent his kid instead to the bait shop we bought our license in that looked like something straight out of Red Green. But the hunt was fun and memorable. The speed the ducks came in at, the challenge of picking one up and following it until the time was right, and all the useful things I learned from my buddy Dan.

Or my Ohio fishing license. My first time walking the spate rivers of NE Ohio that are so unlike anything in Michigan. Beautiful scenery, often in the shadow of an industrial downtown. Despite tough conditions (a 20 degree temperature drop) Mike and I scored well with many hook-ups and several landed. Best of all, I learned so much about fishing this region and the techniques that work.

Every license tells a story and brings a wealth of reminders of enjoying the outdoors - both with my friends and solo. Can't wait to add more!

-Sean-

Bucket List

2011-09-27T17:34:00.000-04:00

Next week I get to cross off a Bucket List item - fishing out West. Headed to The Stonefly Inn in Twin Bridges, Montana. This is a hosted trip arranged by my buddy Mike Schultz of Schultz Outfitters. From everything I've heard, this is going to be everything I anticipated - lots of opportunities to hit lots of legendary water.

With the guidance and advice of friend and knowledgeable guide Jon Ray, I feel like I've upped my game and am ready for the trip. I can comfortably throw a streamer, and feel like I understand the dynamics of that program. And I've had some solid tutelage on fishing dries/hoppers from a drift boat. Thanks for putting in the time with me JR!

I'm also pleased to have some hours in with my Scott A-3 907-4 stick with sink tip, floating, and intermediate lines. I picked this rig up mostly for this trip and it's proven to be surprisingly versatile and effective.

Got the suggested gear list at the pre-trip meeting and fortunately was mostly all set. I did add a nice Simms waterproof backpack for use as a boat bag. This will see a lot of use in Michigan, too.

More stories, and pictures, to follow!

-Sean-

Reel Lust

2011-09-16T17:14:00.002-04:00

OK, we're pretty much looooong past the point of need in terms of sticks and reels. But recently I've discovered The Spey Company and their super-sweet classic spey reels. Wow are these things cool! They look so classic and well-executed. Just what my Scott ARC 1187-3 needs. Classic action rod, with ultra-classic reel!

Which brings up an interesting element of fly fishing. The reel-rod matchup. Yeah, there's the balance issue every book and magazine article talks about, but on an aesthetic, soulful level, it's so much more than that. I think good fly rods and reels have a persona that goes beyond just graphite and metal. It's way more than a product spec sheet could ever convey. Good gear speaks for itself in a unique way. On some basic level that you could never quantify, a Scott rod and a Winston rod are so incredibly different. Just like a Hatch reel is a totally different beast from an Orvis.

And beyond this, these pieces of gear say something about the owner, too. I think that's a part of what makes the brands sticky. I have friends who are incredibly loyal to Orvis. I have one Orvis reel I really do like, but it's not a brand that's stuck with me. Whereas Scott rods have become my standard. I love the performance, but there's something about fishing a Scott. In my mind it says "high performance, but not fussy".

For now, my spey rod will have to be content with a Ross CLA 6 (a fine reel in it's own right). But someday...

-Sean-

Share the Road?

2011-09-15T10:56:00.002-04:00

Living in a college town, I get to see more than my share of dumbass cyclist moves. We as cyclists are quick to criticize idiot drivers, but somehow we seem compelled to look the other way when one of our bretheren does something foolish. I know a lot of drivers who are highly annoyed at cyclists, and it's my opinion that a surprisingly small pool of morons makes the rest of us who are responsible get a bad name.

Example One
Car stopped to make a left turn. Car behind moves to go around. Meanwhile idiot student on bike speeding along not watching tries to pass second car on right. Nearly gets hit and shoots the driver the bird. I was always taught to behave just like any other vehicle when on a bike. That means, traffic stops, you do too. At a minimum, when riding in an urban setting - pay more attention!

Example Two
I'm stopped at a light. Light turns green. As I proceed into the intersection, here comes an idiot on a bike, speeding down the hill, swerves into the left turn lane to go around me, then abruptly swerves in front of me in the straight lane. Hey, dumbass, if I accelerate more quickly than you anticipated, you're road pizza.

Common sense - it's a gift, not a given.

-Sean-

Boss Ross

2011-09-12T12:55:00.000-04:00

My new Ross Evolution LT 2 reel showed up today. Holy sweetness!!!!

Regular readers will know I'm a big Ross fan with a couple of Momentums, 3 CLA's, and now two Evolutions. My first Evo was a 4 size for my Scott A3 7 weight streamer/big bug stick. I've quickly become a big fan of that reel, so when I decided to add some jewelry to my A3 4 weight, an Evo was the logical choice. I love the unique Ross colors (although oddly, I only own black, and one champagne) and the Evo's green is too cool, so that's what I had to get!

These reels are truly impressive. Super-light for their rating, and with a fit-and-finish more like a fine watch than a fly reel. On the smaller #2 size, it's even more impressive. Can't wait to get this one lined up and out on the water.

However, I now have a choice to make. My original plan was to line this up with a 4 weight Rio Clouser line for popping bluegills and other panfish. But now that I have it, I'm wondering if it isn't TOO big pimpin' for gills. Might be more appropriate on a trout set-up. Or maybe that's a snobby perspective.

I've learned in the past year that high-end reels with fancy drag systems are really overkill for most trout, smallmouth, and certainly bluegills. In most cases you're stripping them in by hand anyway.

The appeal of a high-end reel for less demanding species is similar to the aforementioned fine watch, luxury car, good knife, or other similar niceties. Great reels just feel cool and somehow give a little more juice when you're fishing them. Sure, on my steelhead rigs, I need that bulletproof drag systems and durable finish. But why not have that when hitting on the smallmouth, too?

-Sean-

King Thing

2011-09-06T11:07:00.002-04:00

Did my annual Salmon trip on Friday. Got an invite to join my buddy Dan for a float after hearing the Pere Marquette (and most other NW Michigan tribs) were stacking up with early fish.

Now for the disclaimer; Kings aren't my Thing. For some reason, the Fall salmon run brings out the riff-raff snagging, disrespecting private property, and just generally behaving like obnoxious hillbillies. There are usually big crowds, and once the season gets underway, the fish are pretty beat-up and Zombie like.

Friday was NONE of those things. We saw only one other boat, and only 2-3 walk-ins during the entire day-long float. We found a river stacked up with fresh fish. And, best of all, NO crowds!

This was a lesson learned for the future -- early season Salmon are fun. Between Dan and I we landed 4, but easily hooked over 30 with at least half producing a solid fight. As an added bonus, we got to see lots of aerial acrobatics. Even set my own personal salmon record with a 23# hen. This turned into an epic fight that took me well into the backing TWICE!

I recently re-lined my chuck-n-duck rig; replacing the 30# Climax Zip Line with 20# on the advice of the folks at Baldwin Bait and Tackle. If you're in the area, these guys are the go-to resource for the PM. I've found the Zip Line super durable, but really hard on your hands, especially when cold. BBT recommended downsizing to the 20# and the difference was huge. Plenty strong, but much easier to handle. As always, my early Orvis BLA V and TFO Signature Series 10 weight were perfect for putting the boots to a hard-fighting pig!

Thanks for a great day, Dan! Now I'll let my steelhead dreams run freely. Time to tie flies, check gear, and practice my spey casting.

-Sean-

Swing's the Thing

2011-08-29T16:55:00.000-04:00

While there's plenty I'm looking forward to about Fall, little excites me more than swinging streamers for amped-up, pissed-off steelhead. I thought I knew a thing or two about "the tug is the drug". But my first mind-blowing grab last October on a Manistee river buck changed all that.

Normally, detecting steelhead strikes is more like finding a fart in a windstorm. I miss tons more than I hit. Not so with swinging. Ka-WHAM! And then the rodeo ride of the first ten seconds of a steelhead fight starts.

But it's more than just the take that intrigues me. Chuck and Duck is fine, when conditions warrant it (ever fished the UP in Spring? Short, deep holes and LOTS of flow mean it's almost the default setting). But there's so little feedback and I just feel less involved. In recent years, I've mostly switched to indicator fishing. It's cool due to all the issues of managing drift, depth, and other presentation factors. But sometimes its a bit overwhelming.

Enter swinging. Find a good run, select a sink tip that puts you in a reasonable place given conditions, belt out a nice circle spey or double spey cast and you're fishing. Plus, it fits my Fish Fast mentality. Didn't pull one out on the first three drifts? NEXT!

Finally there's the tying aspect. There's a great quote from Ed Ward in the first Skagitmaster, "These flies aren't so much tied as they are engineered." That engineering fastinates me as a tyer. How can I make this fly push water and imitate a baitfish effectively? What colors work for this river? How do I want this fly to behave in the water? That process of continuous improvement absolutely fascinates me. How can I make an inferior fly (like my first efforts) better? How can I make a good fly a great one?

This year's goal is simple - I want to get a steelhead on a swung fly of my design and creation. If I pull that off, I'll be giddy. Will it happen? Who knows, but it will be fun to find out!

-Sean-

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

2011-08-25T11:47:00.000-04:00

As a kid, I eagerly awaited the arrival of the Sears Christmas Catalog. That magical moment that marked the official start of the Holiday season!

Over the last week, I've started to find the first Fall issues of the ski magazines showing up in my mailbox. And yes, I do receive Skiing, Freeskier, and Powder. I have a problem, but we've already covered that.

The September issues always feature test reviews of all the new skis and boots for the upcoming season. Fortunately, I'm very happy with both my K2 Public Enemies and my Line Prophet 100's. Between both of these, I'm covered for most of the conditions I'll encounter. And with a custom bootfit, I'm loving my Nordica Speedmachine 10's. But, it's still fun to look...

Product Review - Scott A3 907-4

2011-08-23T10:53:00.000-04:00

I've got in a few days with my Scott A3 907-4, so I thought a review was in order. This stick was initially purchased for my October trip to The Stonefly Inn and the waters of Montana, but I also figured I had plenty of other uses for it in the Great Lakes region, too. Turns out I was right! Thus far, I've put it to use:

Stripping streamers for Spring trout
Tossing poppers to panfish (OK, it's overkill, but it was what I had along...)
Stripping streamers to smallmouth bass

I've paired this rod with a Ross Evolution LT 4 reel - an awesome combo! For this stick, I have spools with a 200 grain Rio sink tip, a Rio Outbound Short intermediate line, and a Rio Clouser floating line. Thus far, I've only cast the sink tip and the Clouser line.

Sink tip lines are an interesting challenge for a fly rod, in my opinion. The rod needs some backbone to effectively throw a sink tip, but it's still got be be light enough to cast all day without wearing your arm out. My A3 walks that line nicely. The medium-fast action has some oomph to get the line moving, but I've cast this stick for pretty long periods without fatigue. This rod's also equally comfortable tossing poppers large and small.

Thus far I've gotten a couple of decent sized trout and smallmouth on it. Seems to have the backbone to fight like a champ. I'm eager to hook into a hawg in Montana to really see what it's got.

I'm quickly finding this to be a favorite in my quiver that's far more versatile than I'd even expected. Highly recommended and a great value!

-Sean-

At the Hop

2011-08-16T17:34:00.000-04:00

Heading to the Northwoods for a long weekend of R&R. Work's been pretty steadily crazy lately, so time off the grid is looking really nice.

Talking to a guide buddy today and he reminded me that terrestrials are still the fly of choice for trout. I love fishing hoppers. Nice big foam fly. Easy to cast, easy to track, easy to see strikes. It's like Training Wheels Trout. Had a great time fishing hoppers with Jon Ray on the upper Manistee a few weeks back. Cast, wait, strike, wait, WHACK! Fish on!

Can't wait. Great Beer Fishing. Beer in one hand, rod in the other. Wet wade. Cast, sip, wait, sip, pinch, strike, set beer down, strip, strip, land. Repeat. A true joy of summer.

Whatever summer brings you, enjoy the time!

-Sean-

Product Review: Fizik Alliante Road Saddle

2011-08-12T09:14:00.000-04:00

As expected, part of the recent road bike fitting included a saddle replacement. I originally put on the Serfas RX saddle not long after I bought the road bike a few years back. But I'd been noticing it's cushy top and wide profile seemed to have some ill effects. It almost seemed to rob power, and I felt like it was throwing my hips out of alignment as I compensated for the width.

During my first fitting session with Oscar, owner of Great Lakes Cycling and Fitness, the saddle was one of the first things he commented on. He diplomatically said that, "nomally we don't put this type of saddle on this sort of bike." What he didn't say was, "...because it's mostly designed for Grandpa cruisers..."

The options were dizzying, and more importantly looked like some sort of medieval torture device. I settled on a mid-priced Selle Royal saddle. More aggressive than my previous one, but not nearly full-out racing gear. Great Lakes has an excellent 7-day trial period for saddles. So, off I went. After a couple of rides, I found that while it was comfortable, it lacked the center channel feature I liked about the Serfas and that made certain southern regions less comfortable. Plus, I found that the narrower profile and lower padding were surprisingly comfortable.

So, back I go to the shop. After some discussion, I decided to move to a Fizik model - actually one of the torture devices I'd seen earlier in this journey. A little more expensive, but with less padding, an even narrower profile, and an anatomical center channel.

From the first mile, I knew I'd made the right choice. I'm not sure how a saddle makes a bike feel faster, but it did. Comfort was surprisingly good. Plus it just looked COOL on my bike.What was surprising was realizing how much I'd been riding almost bowlegged compensating for the wider saddle. The whole ride felt more efficient and I could tell my ergonomics have improved.

The only downside? Minimalist padding means I need to put in some time on the road to toughen up. By the end of a ride, my butt's a bit sore. However, I know this can only be addressed by riding more miles.

If you're looking for a great, high-performance saddle, I highly recommend the Fizik line. Not cheap, but worth it!

-Sean-

Signs of the Seasons

2011-08-11T10:32:00.001-04:00

Fall is on its way. Our first week of cool temps has arrived. It's darker in the mornings. And the Canadian geese are starting their journey, honking all the way.

I've learned to appreciate and enjoy Summer, but I always reach a point where I'm done. I start looking forward to chasing steelhead, the Fall colors, cooler days, and tailgating. Last week, I hit that point. I could tell because I started thinking about organization among my fishing gear - switching over from trout and smallmouth gear to the big gun steelhead hardware. I'll probaby tie up a couple of new streamers this weekend.

But, still have some trout trips in mind, plans to get out on both mountain and road bikes, and some canoe floats I'd like to do. I'm sure there's plenty of warm-weather fun yet to come, but at the same time, I'll be making plans for the coming season.

-Sean-

Confidence

2011-08-10T14:07:00.000-04:00

Had a nice feeling of accomplishment today in my evolution as a fly guy. A friend, who's a novice with the fly, mentioned he was headed to the area around the Au Sable in a couple of weeks. It felt really good to be able to readily recommend some terrestrials and a few dries likely to bring some fish to hand. A very fulfilling feeling from a couple of years back when it seemed like I'd look in the bins in the fly shop and barely be able to identify anything.

I think this is a combination of two factors - experience, and tying. At any rate, it's a nice feeling.

-Sean-

Adventure on River X

2011-08-05T11:34:00.000-04:00

Normally I've not been a big advocate of the "secret fishing spot" that many fisherman pride themselves on. Readers of this blog have seen posts on the AuSable, Pere Marquette, and other well-known rivers. These rivers have been made famous in magazines, TV and other media. My blog mention isn't going to lead to crowding. But now I've found my secret spot.

Took a drive into Northern Michigan last weekend to fish a piece of water that's been recommended to me for a while. After visiting, I wonder why it took me so long. Found a great campground, right on the banks and got my tent set-up. What I found was some phenomenal water! Beautiful surroundings, great fishing, easy wading. But best of all - no crowds! I fished two days on this piece of water and never saw another fisherman! In Michigan's Lower Peninsula, this is a rare occurrence. The 90+ degree daytime temps probably kept a few away, but this was far from a crowded river.

On Sunday I hitched a ride with a guide buddy for a short float. What a great chance to see even more great water (with easy walk-in access throughout)! I also got to brush up on my dry fly skills casting to the sweet spot, and learned the art of the SLOOOOOOOW hook set that scored me far more fish once I figured it out.

So there it is. I found my own sweet water. Sorry, can't tell you where it is. Go find your own! ;)

-Sean-

Product Review: Scott A3 854-4 Fly Rod

2011-08-01T14:26:00.000-04:00

I'll mix it up this time and skip right to the end, then explain...

I love this stick! If a 4-weight fits your need list, add this one to your quiver.

OK, now that I've gotten the exuberance in up-front, let me tell you more. After a few outings with tiny dries on my Scott A2 906-4 I felt the bug for some lighter tackle bite. Since the Scott A3 series has become my default setting, that's where I decided to start. I had the opportunity to cast both the 8'6" and the 9' versions, before choosing the former. I paired the new rod with a Ross CLA 1.5 and Rio Selective Trout LT fly line.

This weekend I slipped north to investigate the upper stretches of the Manistee River. This time of year, it's hoppers and teeny tiny tricos. Perfect -- let the 6 weight handle the big bugs and the 4 weight to for small stuff.

Casting a rod in your backyard is somehow totally different than casting it out on the river. From the first cast, I found this a magic stick. Distance and accuracy were non-issues. And presentation was always ever-so-delicate. And the light weight made casting comfortable and kept my form in-check. Quickly I was able to entice a nice brookie and a small brown to accept a pile of feathers and fur as food.

I was also very happy with the pairing of rod and line (thanks to Mike Schultz for his help in getting that right). This now-discontinued line from Rio was just right with this rod. It balanced casting power with a smooth, delicate presentation.

In short, buy one. You won't regret it.

As an end note, I'm looking forward to pressing this rod into duty as my bluegill/panfish rod. Picked up a Ross Evolution LT 1.5 and a Rio Clouser for it. Should be many hours of fun!

-Sean-

Tying Space Upgrade

2011-07-29T14:04:00.000-04:00

I have a pretty sweet fly tying space - actually it doubles as my home office. Looks out over woods, cool old Craftsman style desk, etc. As luck would have it some old stereo components also occupy this space, so I have some nice tunes. Tying in the evening while listening to music is an incredible way to chill out. At the heart of this system is an original NAD 3020 amplifier - a legendary piece of gear known for its smooth, musical sound. I usually drive it with my iPod Classic. But what's been lacking are decent speakers. I've been using some Utah Acoustics speakers that I rebuilt in HIGH SCHOOL (oooh, that's old...). Their sound is pretty underwhelming.

I'm a big fan of Klipsch speakers, especially the KG series. I have KG1's in my family room with a KSW 15" 500w subwoofer. And a pair of KG .5's in my kitchen. I always wanted a pair of Klipsch KG2's, but never really had a good space for them. This looked like the perfect opportunity and a review of eBay showed some nice examples for $100 or less. After losing a couple of auctions, I was able to score a pair in very nice condition. Fortunately the sell shipped them pretty quickly as I was pretty eager by now.

In a word -- Wow!

Despite being early 90's vintage, the KG2's sound outstanding. Warm mids, great bass, and clear crisp highs. Truly a significant (and cheap) upgrade for my tying/office space. Was tying up some oddball sorta' Clouser's to throw at trout last night and had on some nice, rich Great Lake Swimmers that sounded wonderful!

Of course, any upgrade always seems to incite more. Plans are underway to add surround sound in the family room, so a new receiver will be required. This will free up my Creek 4240 integrated amp to join the KG2's upstairs. I expect the resulting sound to be brilliant.

As you may have guessed, in addition to a myriad of outdoor pursuits, I love music and once upon a time was a bit of an audiophile.

-Sean-

One for Fun

2011-07-25T10:53:00.000-04:00

Rode ten miles at Island Lakes Recreation Area yesterday on the mountain bike. Had several of those moments that reminded my why I love Project SingleSpeed. When you ride a single speed, you get passed. Frequently, especially on climbs. So you're alert to a rider behind you who wants to get by. Several times I was alerted to this by the "click-click-CLANG-thunk" of gear changes.

This simplicity is what inspired this endeavor initially. With my bike, there's no need to think about what gear you're in - because you're in the ONLY gear! But also, the total quiet that comes from a single-speed hardtail bike. It very much appeals to me - very Zen.

Also, heard a couple of bikes that clearly needed some tuning. Missed shifts. Ungraceful transitions. When there's no derailleur, there's considerably less chaos and less to keep in adjustment. Plus, my now-bulletproof drivetrain (thanks to Josh for the Profiles) mean I can just grunt it up that hill. No chain skipping, or other nasty surprises.

Sweet ride. Super happy.

-Sean-

8-Ball, Corner Pocket

2011-07-22T09:48:00.000-04:00

One of the most fascinating revelations of Will Turek's spey clinic was finally learning the proper way to hold a two-handed rod for spey casting.

I've been putting the Vulcan Death Grip on the full expanse of the lower grip. But spey casting is a ballet using both hands, with cross-overs, multiple changes of direction, and other complexities. A full grip on the lower just sets up disaster.

Turns out the proper approach is a ball-and-socket with the bulb in the palm of your hand and fingers gripped around it. This gives a solid grip with nearly full rotation. This was truly an "Ah-HA!" moment.

Amazing what some basic instruction will do for understanding! Hoping to get out this weekend to throw a few casts. I've set a goal to have at least two casts - one with an upstream anchor, the other with a downstream - comfortable and repeatable by 1 October for steelhead season. As of now it looks like those will be a Double Spey and a Circle Spey. Several of the Great Lakes guides I've met seem to use the Circle and it's cousin the Snap-T a great deal, so this seems like a good place to start.

-Sean-

Chrome on the Brain

2011-07-20T14:07:00.000-04:00

Just when I'm enjoying the Summer groove, someone has to go put chrome in my brain. Talking to a buddy this morning who organizes a Fall steelhead fly trip and he tells me to block off some dates in late October. Cr*p, now I'm just itching to get bent!

Don't start fly fishing for steelhead. Do something less addictive, like crack. For now, steelhead porn's just going to have to do the trick...

Product Review: Fishpond Ice Storm Soft Cooler

2011-07-19T11:30:00.000-04:00

Fishpond products are super-cool. Great style, fun colors, built using indestructible materials and manufacturing methods, and all seem to feature some innovative engineered feature. My favorite clippers are their Pitchfork models - I think I have one on my waders, another my jacket, and one on a lanyard.

Recently, I added an Ice Storm soft cooler to the arsenal of coolers in my basement. I've seen this cooler and it's smaller bretheren bouncing around in guide boats for years, so I knew it was rugged. But taking it a step further with a lifetime warranty is a nice bonus.

Soft-side coolers usually haven't been especially good at keeping things cold in truly hot conditions for very long. But, Fishpond's done a great job. I had a cooler full of beer and food out in 90+ degree heat for most of Sunday afternoon with everything chilly and surprisingly little melt by the end of a canoe trip. It wouldn't be my choice for a weekend camping (for that, I'll stick to my hard-sided Igloo Max Cold which could keep beer cold in Hell), but for a day on the river, it's outstanding.

My other issue with soft-sided coolers is access. Flimsy zippers make it hard to access, and eventually fail. Not Fishpond. Big, beefy zippers with rubberized handles meant easily opening while balancing in a canoe speeding down the river. And, lots of zippered pockets mean convenient stowage for all sorts of gear.

I also really like the rigid plastic bottom. It offers both structure and durability, as well as keeping melted ice from leaking. Finally, the rubberized liner seems about 3X as thick as any soft cooler I've ever seen. It certainly seems like it will provide a long, useful life.

Yes, $90 is ridiculous for a cooler. But this one's top-notch and should provide me with years of useful life!

-Sean-

Metalhead

2011-07-19T09:00:00.001-04:00

Only a true metalhead would be watching Winter steelheading fish porn when it's 90+ degrees out. Yup, that's me. Can't WAIT!

There's nothing quite like that strike to put the heat back into you on a cold day. Chasing smallies and trout is all cool; but for me, the tug is the drug!

-Sean-

FUNdamentals

2011-07-18T09:54:00.001-04:00

On Saturday I got to take part in a long-awaited class. Schultz Outfitters hosted a spey clinic with guru Will Turek of the Midwest Spey School. I've been fishing a switch rod for about a year and recently added a dedicated two-handed rod to my arsenal. Thus far I've had a total of roughly 15 minutes of instruction - just enough to be dangerous.

Most of my outings have gone OK, but not great. I really only knew one cast. Wind, orientation, and river dynamics would completely throw my program into disarray. But I think it was good to get out and learn what I didn't know.

Will's program was excellent with a solid progression of knowledge. We started with some classroom basics that really helped me get a better understanding of my rigs and how you match lines, sink tips, rods, reels, etc. As a bonus, I finally learned how a "cheater" segment fits in. I've been running cheaters on both of my rigs because a more knowledgeable guide told me I needed them. Now I know why, when, and how to figure out what length to use.

After class, we moved to some lawn casting. Again, some really great fundamentals that would come into play later in the day. Focus was on overhead casting and getting comfortable really working BOTH hands in unison. That extra "pop" from the lower hand on the backcast and shooting cast really energizes the whole program. He also made us cast to both sides - as I quickly learned, spey casting is an ambidexterous thing!~

By this point everyone was HOT (high in the low 90's on Saturday) and eager to hit the river. Will started us with the basics of building a double spey cast. Mastering the stop-and-flop of setting up the cast, as well as getting some sense of timing. After that, an exercise in clearing the line that helped with the sweep (to set-up the cast) had us prepped for the real thing.

One key element I learned was the components of the cast. First is the "contrived" cast that sets your anchor point. Next is clearing the line, which creates the D-loop the delivers the power of the cast. Finally is your overhead cast that delivers. What I learned was that the last two steps are universal, no matter the cast. What changes with a Spey, Double Spey, Circle, Snap-T, etc. is the contrived cast. And all of these are based largely on where you need the anchor point. This has been a HUGE source of challenge for me and resulted in some might nice collision casts. But I learned that happens as a result of having the rod tip inside the D-loop. And that's completely driven by wind, and the change of direction needed to hit your target. Wind upstream, D-loop upstream. Wind downstream, D-loop downstream. Basically you never want the D-loop blowing into you/your rod and collapsing into a shit show.

Now we were ready for the big show -- putting all the pieces together. Contrived cast (double spey first, later circle), clearing the line, then BOOM -- delivering the cast. Now it's all clicking and I know why I need each element. Of course my timing could have been better, and timing is critical. But that comes with practice. We also learned Circle Spey, ideal for an upstream cast (and a key for heavy flies and sink tips here in Michigan).

Will closed out the class with some thoughts on presentation. How to slow the fly and get good cross-current action, or speed up the sink rate of the fly for pocket water.

If you're doing ANY two-handed casting, I would strongly recommend a clinic of this sort. I learned a wealth of basics that will really help me build a solid repertoire. I would highly recommend Will Turek, if you have access to one of his classes. Really good guy with a very solid style of instruction that helps you learn and retain technique.

-Sean-

Pimp Stick

2011-07-15T11:13:00.000-04:00

I can't help it. I think I just have to have one pimp stick set-up. I've shuffled some gear and decided I need a line/reel set-up for throwing poppers to bluegills and panfish on my Scott A3 854-4. Enter the Ross Evolution LT in green. This should make a pretty cool looking combo - grey rod blank, blue guide wraps, green reel. Colored just like a bluegill! Do I need an Evo for gills? Of course not! But it will look sweet when it's done, and I sold another spare reel for enough to pay for it. Sometimes it's just more about form than function - although the A3/Evo in no way lacks peformance!

-Sean-

Too Many Ways to Play

2011-07-14T13:18:00.000-04:00

Seems like Summer has now become yet another season with too many possible activities competing for my scarce spare time. Hasn't helped that this Summer has been unprecedentedly (is that a word?) busy with work, family, and friends. So, as of now, my spare time could be filled with:

Cycling - road and mountain bike
Fly fishing - local warmwater rivers, trout streams up North, or poppers in local lakes for bass and panfish
Shooting - sporting clays, handguns indoors, or rifles outdoors
Canoeing
Camping

Cross all these activities by weather conditions, work, and more and it ends up spread pretty thin. But that's OK, even if I'm not doing any one thing as much as I'd like it's sure cool to have all these possibilities. Lately mood seems to dictate activity selection, followed closely by weather. Going shooting on a 95 degree day seems far less fun than hitting the river with the canoe.

And people ask me if I golf. Now just when would I do that?

-Sean-

Simple Pleasures

2011-07-11T09:30:00.000-04:00

Just spent a very fun weekend with friends on Lake Isabella, outside Mt. Pleasant. One of the highlights of the weekend for me was sitting on the front of the boat in the evening hooking an endless stream of bluegills.

As a kid, I spent many hours sitting on a dock someplace in Michigan chasing bluegills, sunfish, and rock bass. So this was a welcome return to childhood.

My 7 wt. Scott A3 with a Rio Clouser was a bit much for chucking tiny poppers, but I certainly didn't lack for distance casting! Took my a few minutes to find my groove. Meanwhile, my buddy Brian's already had three on with crawlers. But once I figured it out, BAM, pretty much a fish on every third cast. The rhythym was very cool. Cast, let it settle, twitch, twitch, strip, twitch, twitch. Somewhere during the twitch sequence was where I hit most of them.

An incredibly pleasant way to pass an evening. Best of all -- a cooler full of cold beer at my elbow!

-Sean-

Ski Tuning

2011-07-08T09:00:00.004-04:00

Have started working on the marketing for one of my fave ski shops Sun & Snow Sports. The showed this video clip at this year's Warren Miller Ann Arbor movie. As a guy who tuned a boatload of skis by hand for himself and customers for years, I doubt I'd ever tune my own after watching this. Wow!

Gear

2011-07-07T08:53:00.000-04:00

Spent some time re-organizing fishing gear last night. Despite an excellent organizing system, GEEZ there's a lot of stuff in my basement! I suppose that's because I don't confine my pursuit of fish to any one species, so you need a multitude of tools. And, since steelhead are my passion, that brings in another wealth of specialized gear.

I use one main bag for the gear for the current season. In the Fall I load it up for steelhead, and around the Trout Opener I swap everything over to trout and warmwater pursuit. The off-season gear goes into a dedicated plastic container. Last night in the steelhead bin I noticed 2 Ross Momentums, 1 Orvis Battenkill V (with spare spool, lined up), a Raven Matrix centerpin, 3 boxes of flies, 2 wallets of sink tips, 4 spools of centerpin line, and more. And that's just the hardware, doesn't even touch on the 87 layers needed to wade when it's 20 degrees outside.

Originally the off-season box was much smaller, but it seems to have grown, too. Once upon a time it was just a box of dry flies and my trusty Scott A2 6-wt. with Ross CLA 3. Then streamers were added, and a 7 wt. A3, with Ross Evolution LT and three spools (sink tip, intermediate, and floating lines) joined the quiver, along with a 4-wt. A3 with Ross CLA 1.5 for dries.

Funny thing is, I use all this stuff. If something's not useful, it gets sold. I can point to every piece of gear and tell you why I have it. And, fortunately, I've been able to find deals and used equipment in many cases, so the investment is greatly reduced. But man, what a bunch of stuff!

-Sean-

First Impressions: Old Town Penobscot Canoe

2011-07-05T10:37:00.000-04:00

Got the new canoe out for the first trip on the Huron River yesterday afternoon. It's an Old Town Penobscot 16RX that I picked up lightly used on Craigslist. Although I'd considered several similar canoes from other manufacturers the Penobscot won out for two reasons. The first was weight - at only 58 pounds, the Penobscot was dramatically lighter than the 75-80 pound alternatives I was considering. I plan to paddle this both solo and tandem and wanted a boat I could easily get on my roof alone. Second, I was looking for a manueverable, responsive river boat. I have no delusions of a week-long camping trip in the Boundary Waters. I want to take 1-2 people, and some modest gear and still retain great turning performance. Modest rocker and a narrower profile were key.

The new boat delivers all of this in spades. The light weight made it super-easy to get on and off the roof racks. This also makes shuffling the boat and gear from truck to river simpler, too.

Best of all was the Penobscot's performance in the water. "Zippy" would be the best word I could use to describe it. The boat turns readily with minimal input. And just a moderate current had us moving at a nice pace. Despite this manueverability, the Penobscot tracks arrow-straight very easily. I've learned this lesson the hard way. My first kayak was a Necky that was super-responsive. Unfortunately that made it so twitchy I couldn't paddle a straight line to save my life! Even when paddling solo from the stern, a modest J-stroke kept things right on track.

My only compliant with this boat is completely silly -- no cupholders. Would be nice to be able to have a beer without having to balance it between your feet! I'm sure I'll find an aftermarket unit that mounts conveniently.

So, if you're considering a canoe and have needs like mine, I highly recommend the Old Town Penobscot 16RX.

-Sean-

Fit is It

2011-06-30T08:25:00.000-04:00

A recent article in Bicycling magazine on the effects of bad fit on your body with road bikes set me to thinking. For the past two seasons I've ridden less on my road bike than in the past. Upon reflection, I realize that the sore neck and shoulders and numb toes are most likely a result of poor fit on my ride.

Stopped by my local shop, Great Lakes Cycling & Fitness, and talked to owner Oscar. Sure enough the do custom fitting by appointment, so I set on up. The fit process was pretty fascinating - in addition to a wide range of all sorts of body measurements, Oscar puts you on the bike on a trainer and watches your riding style. Based on measurements, observations, and a bit of help from computer-based fit sofware, he starts making adjustments.

Two items were immediately apparent. First, my Look stem was a good bit too long. Second my Serfas RX saddle belonged on Grandpa's upright cruiser, not my performance-oriented road bike. Funny thing is that I'd wondered if this saddle was part of my problem - being overly wide and overly padded. A shorter Giant stem and a new Selle Royal saddle were the first times.

Then the tweaking began. Surprisingly, the tweaks were all relatively small, but there were quite a few. It started with raising the seat height, sliding it back, and adjusting the angles. Then, after discussing my flexibility, or lack of it, the handlebars were rotated upward. The effect of all this was to shift my riding position rearward to more evenly distribute the weight load between handlebars and saddle. Previously I'd been riding with much of my weight supported on my wrists, causing neck and shoulder pain.

Finally he addressed the position of my cleats. This is both to provide proper alignment and efficiency, and to deal with the toe numbness I've been experiencing.

It's interesting I'd never considered having a pro do a fitting. Especially since discovering the HUGE benefits of a custom fitting for my ski boots (thanks to Rob @ Sun & Snow Sports for that!) last year. Watching Oscar work made me realize how little I knew about getting a bike to fit me well.

Are we done? No, not quite. I'm swapping the new saddle for one with an anatomical cutout. And there's still a bit of toe numbness lingering. But a few more adjustments today and we should be further along. Hoping to sneak in a ride tonight to see!

-Sean-

Thoughts of seasons to come...

2011-06-23T14:01:00.000-04:00

Even though it's clearly Summer in Michigan, for a steelheader that means Fall can't be far off. Get your fix like I did with the excellent video from Capt. Jon Ray. Looking forward to getting crushed on the swing! Eager to learn to better use my spey rod in a few weeks at the Schultz Outfitters Spey School. There will be chrome in the Northern Michigan rivers before we know it!

Scott - None Better

2011-06-22T16:10:00.000-04:00

This short video encompasses so much of why I love my 6 Scott rods so much. Each is a tool, handcrafted for the job it was intended for. The people are what makes the difference. This is why whenever I consider a new stick, I start with the looking at the Scott offering. Watch and see...

Scott | behind the scenes from Scott Fly Rods on Vimeo.

The Right Profile

2011-06-20T09:45:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the season's first outing for my Project Singlespeed mountain bike. This was my first ride since installing the Profile bmx crankset and bottom bracket. Holy cr@p!!! I expected an improvement, but was immediately shocked at how much difference it made.

Originally I started this swap to eliminate a pesky creaking/thumping somewhere in the drivetrain. I suspected the stock OEM generic bottom bracket/crankset didn't fit well and wear may have become an issue. With the Profile design the interface is ultra-precise, which eliminates this problem.

The increase in stiffness was incredible and impacted power delivery and the overall "jump" of the bike. This made hill climbing so much easier. Hills that normally frustrated me weren't an issue. Just powered right up them. A stiffer crankset also provided a handling benefit - a more direct connection to the bike that provides yet one more "steering input". Cool!

My Profile's are a 165mm and replace a set of 175mm stock cranks. The difference in clearance is another benefit. I first noticed it when I didn't need to continually pay attention to my size 12 feet hitting the front tire, but I also found plenty of pedaling ground clearance from the shorter arms.

For those who haven't followed the blog for a while here's some more on Project Singlespeed. The bike started life as stock SE BM Flyer (nice acronym, guys...). My goal was to build up a bulletproof single-speed mountain bike. It started with some simple upgrades - a WTB Laser V saddle and then some Sun Ringle magnesium pedals. I've always wanted a disc brake-equipped bike and the SE has all the mounts, so I scored a set of Avid BB-7 calipers and discs and installed those. A chat with Steve Sauter, wheel building guru at Great Lakes Cycle, revealed that the White Industries ENO Eccentric rear hub was the solution to effective chain tension, as my bike has vertical dropouts. Plus a 29" wheel with a casette hub is up to 40% weaker than a dedicated single-speed hub, due to the wider distance between flanges. So I had Steve lace up some new hoops with the ENO in the rear and stock Formula sealed hub in front on Mavic TN719 rims. During this process I was also looking to dial in the gearing (when you only have one option, get it right). The final solution was a 31 tooth Graveyard sprocket coupled to an 18 tooth White ENO freewheel (stupidly expensive for a freewheel - and worth every cent). A Wipperman single speed chaing completes the drivetrain. The Profile cranks and sealed bottom bracket were the final stage.

The resulting bike is amazing. Fairly light for a 29er, handles great, nimble and responsive, and super comfortable to ride for long periods. Sure a single-speed can't go everyhwere, but the appeal of simplicity certainly works for me. Cool ride!

-Sean-

Product Review: Simms G4 Jacket

2011-06-15T09:08:00.000-04:00

I'm in my third season with my Simms G4 Pro jacket, so I thought a long-term review might be warranted. When you spend a lot of time outdoors, you end up with a lot of jackets. Of all that I own, my G4 is probably the most reliable and versatile.

For me performance is first and foremost when considering outerwear. So far, this jacket has been there for me in many situations, like:

8 solid hours of driving rain trout fishing in Michigan's UP; without a single leak.
Man full days of Winter steelheading in all conditions from sun to snow squalls.
Two days fishing during a period of record low-pressures that sustained 30mph winds with gusts up to 60 mph.
Three days of temps in the 30's, sustained winds, and snow, sleet, and rain chasing steelhead in the UP.
And more...

This jacket has taken everything I can throw at it - wind, rain, snow, sleet - and it looks like new. And it's become my go-to when the weather turns ugly.

Like all Simms products it's clear that the G4 was designed by people who fish. Tons of easily accessible pockets make it easy to carry a wide range of gear for Winter steelheading without the bulk of a vest. Fleece lined handwarmer pockets offer cold fingers a break when you need a quick warm-up. The hood is has the best ergonomics of any I've encountered - fits easily over a hat, but not bulky as some. Two built-in retractors hold nippers and other tools at the ready. One cool extra touch are two magnets just below the retractors that hold metal tools steady. The huge pocket on the back has a shock cord attached to the zipper for easy access without removing the jacket.

As with many Simms products, it comes with a serious price tag. And it's worth every cent.

Dusting off the Cobwebs

2011-06-13T14:13:00.000-04:00

Finally got my road bike out for the season's first ride on Saturday. Weather, work, and other commitments have kept me off the road so far this Spring.

The first outing is alway interesting. You never know whether it will be 5 miles of torture, or an easy 20. A lack of consistent exercise this Winter and a late start had me anticipating the former. To my pleasant surprise, it quickly became the latter.

What I find fascinating is that I know in that first mile how the ride will progress. If I'm dragging ass, I know I'll either cut it short, or need the mental discipline to complete my planned route. But some days, you find that jump that tells you that there's plenty of fuel in the tank. Saturday was one of those days. A day when even a heavy bike feels like an 18 pound tweaked out road racer. There's a lightness in your legs and seemingly boundless energy that just feels like it's been waiting all week to be unleashed.

My Saturday ride accomplished my three primary goals:

Get out and ride somewhere;
Go a reasonable distance; and
Not die.

Now that I've succeded in these three, it's time to set some new goals for the season.

-Sean-

Utility Stick

2011-06-07T11:03:00.000-04:00

My new streamer rig is turning out to be a great utility player. It's a Scott A3 907/4 rod with a Ross Evolution LT 4 reel. Fortunately I picked up two spare spools (for a total of 3) that have added greatly to its utility.

Spool one has an older Rio 200 grain sink tip, primarily for stripping streamers for trout. Spool number two has a Rio Outbound short with an intermediate tip for flinging crayfish and other streamer patterns to smallmouth on the Huron and other rivers with less abrupt holes. Finally, I think today I've decided that the third spool will be getting a floating line for bass poppers and possibly if I get out to chase carp. Most likely a Rio Gold in 7-weight.

Considering that I initally invested in this rig primarily for trout streamers, I couldn't be happier about its newfound versatility. I think I'll be fishing this stick often! It's nice when you make a purchase that proves to be such a solid utility player in the quiver!

-Sean-

Brand Loyalty

2011-06-06T09:40:00.000-04:00

At a recent beer-fueled meeting with a client/friend last week he asked what brands I was loyal to. My general response to that sort of questions is more consumer-oriented brands -- Jeep, Nikon, Toro, Weber BBQ. But it got me to thinking about loyalty to outdoor brands. Those brands where I start for a new purchase. The "default" setting. Didn't take long to generate a pretty long list:

Scott fly rods
Ross reels
Simms waders, boots, and clothing
Daiichi hooks
Nordica ski boots
K2 skis (and their associated Line brand)
Mountain Hardwear clothing and other items
Giant bicycles
Merrell footwear

What's interesting to me as a marketer is why are these brands "sticky" for me? After some reflection I realized that all of them have two things in common:

Their products consistently outperform my expectations. I've never cast a Scott rod I didn't like. Every Nordica boot I've owned was top-notch. And so on down the line.
Each has a solid brand in its outbound marketing efforts. I routinely use Simms as an example of solid brand marketing. It starts with their positioning as the choice of guides. But their advertising is excellent, as is their web site and literature.

This says to me that the best outdoor brands are a combination of consistent product quality and brilliant brand-driven marketing. As an example of the other side is Orvis. While I've had some very good Orvis products (my BLA V large arbor has been a great reel), I've also had some less satisfying products (my Silver XT waders). And their marketing has been rather stodgy. They seem to have positioned themselves as the brand for dry fly elitist geezers. But this seems to be changing lately -- some excellent new products, as well as a bit more attitude in their marketing. We'll see how it plays out, as brands change slowly at-best.

-Sean-

Floaty Toy

2011-06-01T14:21:00.000-04:00

Been on the hunt for a canoe since selling off the kayaks recently. I think a canoe will have some advantages, including ability to haul multiple people, versatility as a base for river camping (I'm thinking a Two Hearted overnight needs to be in my Summer plans), and more. For a while, my Dad and I have wanted to try the UP's Fox river a look. But it's not great wading water, has little access, and other challenges. Unfortunately my parents 17' Grumman aluminum canoe handles like a battleship, and weighs about the same.

I had a chance to paddle one of the new generation of Royalex canoes last year on the Chippewa river. Light, easy to handle, easy to paddle, and made for a very comfortable day.

First boat I considered was a Mad River Explorer. While I liked the boat for its design and construction, most reviews I read pegged it as more of a flat water boat, and at 72 pounds it's really too heavy to get on the roof of the Jeep when solo.

While shopping, I ran into the Old Town Penobscot. Most reviews I found described this as great river boat, due to some rocker, and a passable flat water floater, too! And, at 58 pounds (lighter than most any 16' Royalex boat I found) it just about flies up onto my roof racks. Several reviewers added that its a very competent solo boat simply by reversing it and sitting backwards in the bow seat (to center weight distribution). Bonus!

A little time spent on Craigslist showed me a gently used Penobscot about 20 miles from home. After a quick visit and some price negotiation, I had a canoe. Above the waterline, you can barely tell it's not new. Below, there's a bit of river rash, but it's surprisingly minimal. Need to score some paddles, but then it's ready to get wet!

Won't replace a drift boat, but for now it's cheaper, easier to store, and more versatile.

-Sean-

Water, Water Everywhere

2011-05-31T10:50:00.000-04:00

Anyone who thinks global climate change isn't real need only look at the bizarre weather throughout the country. In my corner of the world, it's been rain. Buckets of it.

Saw on the news that the Ann Arbor area got over 12" of rain in the first three weeks of May. This has certainly put a damper on lots of my outdoor fun, especially when coupled with colder than normal temperatures. Been mostly too cold for the road bike, trails have been in terrible condition for mountain bike, and smallmouth fishing on the Huron's not only impossible, but dangerous. For a river that's more normally below 1,000 CFS at this time of year, a reading like the 2,850 CFS that's ripping through the system is truly frightening. Trickling tributaries turn quickly into full-blown streams.

OK, Mother Nature -- enough, please!

-Sean-

Bomb Proof

2011-05-23T15:06:00.000-04:00

Well, the mountain bike is now absolutely bomb proof. Thanks to my buddy Josh for a pair of nice Profile cranks from his stock. If you haven't checked these out, they're sweet. The 48-tooth spline fits at a level of precision that's truly astounding. Just to illustrate the fit - there's no pinch bolt! A simple end bolt into the spline does it all. Wow.

I did have to buy a Profile bottom bracket, but much like the cranks, it's bomb proof. Fully sealed and just a clear improvement over the generic stock BB.

This is a key upgrade that I've considered for a while, but held off due to expense. With Josh's help, that equation changed. The stock house-brand crankset seems to have been a core issue. Intermittent creaking and clunking have greatly shaken my confidence in this ride. Years as a bike mechanic have made me incredibly intolerant of random noises. Another benefit is that these cranks are a bit shorter than the stock ones. While this means I raise the gearing slightly, it gives me a noticeable increase in ground clearance. Having had a couple of near misses, this will be a nice change.

Now if it would stop raining for long enough for the trails to dry our even a little, that would be great!

-Sean-

Welcome Back

2011-05-19T12:11:00.000-04:00

I'm happy to be back in the Jeep family. My '11 Jeep Liberty Limited is both a sweet ride on-road, and an effective vehicle when conditions degrade. After wrapping up on the Manistee on Friday, I decided there had to be a more direct route back to Cadillac. The alternative was driving 10 miles west, then 10 miles back east.

So, I headed down a dirt road in about the right direction. This turned into a single-lane two-track. Then into something more like a deer path. Of course, 7" of rain in the area the previous week left conditions pretty poor with some serious holes full of water. In the previous Honda Element, I'd have been stuck for certain.

But like all the Jeeps I've had before NO PROBLEMO! Lots of ground clearance meant powering through everything I encountered. In fact, though I considered it, I never shifted into 4WD. Jeep just kept rolling along. Best part was the ride though. I've always found Jeeps a little stiff on-road, but when you get them off the pavement, its obvious that on-road wasn't what they were designed for.

With gas over $4.00 per gallon, I thought long and hard about vehicle alternatives. In the end, I realized that Jeep is the perfect vehicle for the types of activities I love.

It's good to be home. Thanks, Jeep!

-Sean-

Timing is Everything

2011-05-18T14:26:00.000-04:00

Some one-on-one instruction on the river with Jonny Ray has helped me get to the root of a core fly fishing problem. For a while I've felt like my overhead casting skills weren't very good. I've always suspected it was related to my backcast, but now it's confirmed.

I suffer from two main challenges. The first is more occasional, and that's simply going too far back. But the second in a pretty regular problem. I don't pause long enough on the backcast to let the loop form and the rod load. The result? The puddle cast and an inability to hit what should be reasonable distances. So to compensate, I then push harder coming forward, which turns the whole mess into a complete sh!t show.

We identified this while throwing sink tips, but I was able to figure it out and get my timing on-track during the morning. I found that if I took the time to think, "Wait for it..." at the end of the backcast, that was about right. It's surprising, when you hit it right, you know it immediately.

After lunch we played around with some casting on standard floating lines. That's where my issues became readily apparent. Jon's a great teacher, and after watching me flounder (why do we suck so much more with a knowledgeable eye watching us?) he had some solid suggestions for my issues.

Now I need to book some practice time on the local field and also the river. My goal is to be able to cast reliably to a 1' square by the end of Summer. Seems like a good project.

-Sean-

Screamin' Streamers

2011-05-17T09:43:00.000-04:00

My outing on the Manistee was the first day with the new streamer fishing set-up. As one of my goals for this year was to up my streamer game, both for trout and smallmouth, I quickly realized that investing in the right gear would help jump-start things.

The rod is a Scott A3 907/4. The A3 has become my default rod; I also own and 1108/4 switch rod, a 8654/4 for dry flies, and an earlier A2 906/4 for an all-around rod for dries, nymphing, and hoppers. I've found these rods well-made, and easy-casting.

Onto this I've mounted a Ross Evolution LT 4. I'm a big Ross fan - with a couple of Momentum V's for steelhead as well as some CLA's for various applications. The Evolution was a great surprise. It's incredibly light, features a simple but effective drag (not like I need it for streamers), and is a very impressive design.

When I picked up the Evolution, I also bought an extra spool. This enables me to load one with a Rio 200 grain sink tip for stripping streamers in deeper waters. The other is loaded with Rio Outbound Short for chasing smallmouth on the Huron. I've also decided to pick up a third spool that will get loaded with a Rio 300 grain sink tip for maximum sink speed on places like the Pere Marquette that demand getting down FAST into short holes.

It was great to spend a day throwing streamers on this rig. It's light enough not to wear you out casting it all day - a real advantage as this style of fishing is a good bit more work. The rod has plenty of backbone to punch casts out there in the wind and can handle the largest of trout. But best of all is how it casts. If you allow it ample time to load on the backcast (a subject of an upcoming article) this thing is a cannon. Pretty quickly I was putting my fly exactly where I wanted it. And even as the wind came up in the afternoon it still delivered reliable, powerful casts with minimal effort.

I love when equipment set-up for a purpose gets it right; this one does!

-Sean-

Trout Hunting

2011-05-16T15:35:00.000-04:00

Spent a day with Jon Ray on the Manistee to get schooled on stripping streamers for big trout. As my Montana trip this Fall will be mostly this style, Jon wants to help me up my game so I'm ready to have a great experience. We set out on Streamer 101 with some basics - delivering the line efficiently. Stripping streamers is about hitting the right spot at the right time. Especially when fishing from a boat, this is critical. In most cases, you don't get a second cast.

Once we had me consistently delivering the fly to the right spot we set off down the river. This is where things get interesting. See that 2'x2' spot up against the bank under that tree? The fly needs to be RIGHT there. And you learn to look where you're fishing AND keep an eye on what's coming to time your casts to hit the best hidey holes.

Pretty quickly I found my groove and got a handle on targeting a location and delivering a cast. The extra oomph of the 200 grain sink tip definitely allows you to punch it out there.

What I found interesting was how active and focused this style of fishing is - it's much like hunting. You stalk your prey, try to think like a big trout, and then deliver. If you do it right, you pick off that big fish. Plus, I love sight fishing. Seeing that fish hammer your fly is too cool. And streamer fishing is the next level -- watching a big trout chase your fly through the water is tops for adrenaline.

I will say that this is not really a self-taught style. Having a guide who's a good teacher is invaluable. I learned fly selection, casting, fighting, and far, far more under the watchful eye of Jon.

Lots more highlights, insights, and a challenge or two were had. More on these to follow.

-Sean-

Picture = 1,000 Words

2011-05-09T16:50:00.000-04:00

I was looking at some of my photos the other day and ran across this shot from over the Winter.

This photo just connections with me in so many ways. In art school they taught me that the best photos tell a story. This one says a lot about me as an outdoorsman.

I've caught steelhead in nearly every season, but nothing captivates me like Winter steelheading. I love the solitude, the challenge of targeting a lethargic fish with a slowed metabolism, and the absolute feeling of really disconnecting with the day-to-day. Being in a place where cell phones don't work and therefore get left in the truck. Plus snow just completely changes a landscape, especially a special place like the Pere Marquette river.

And I've fished for steelhead with a variety of tools, but what I seem to return to is float fishing. It's the one way I feel completely connected to what's going on under the water's surface. On my last trip we were primarily doing some chuck n' duck, but I ran some drifts on my Indy rig. Ahhhhh ... home. I like nothing better than perfectly roll casting the full rig to just the right slot and setting up that perfect drift.

Finally, I've really enjoyed discovering two-handed rods. This one's my Scott A-3 11' switch 8-weight. Casts a Skagit line wonderfully, but its like butter with an Indy. That little extra "oomph" when you pop it with the lower hand is so cool. Can't wait to swing on my Scott-based 13' spey rod next fall.

For the technician in me, it meets all the art school criteria -- proper exposure (not easy on snow which goofs up 18% grey-based metering), some nice negative space at the top, and a color progression that pulls your eye through the image. Add in a nice juxtaposition of angles with the rod, line, and indicator and you've got yourself a technically well-executed image (he said, modestly...).

I hope you enjoy my image. Every once in a while I get one I'm really proud of.

-Sean-

Only in a Jeep

2011-05-05T10:15:00.000-04:00

Turned in the Honda Element last week for a return to the Jeep family. While the Element had some interesting features, it turned out not to really be the right vehicle. Underpowered, poor gas mileage, and a ride like a tin box made me glad to turn it in.

It's been replaced with a Jeep Liberty 70th Anniversay edition. I've had a number of Jeep vehicles over the years and all have served me well. The core thing that keeps me coming back to the brand is its offroad capability. Design for offroad performance is a hallmark of all Jeeps. Sure they may not always be the smoothest riding vehicle on city streets, but when you're up to the transfer case in sand looking for a river access point, you appreciate the offroad heritage! Having nearly buried the Element twice last summer in this sort of situation, I'm looking forward to the confidence a Jeep delivers.

Last weekend I got my Yakima roof racks installed, so now it's ready to roll. Not sure if I'm going to install the Rod Loft system or not. I've been finding I don't use it a great deal, so not sure if it's worth the hassle to configure for the new vehicle.

-Sean-

A Good A$$ Kicking

2011-05-04T12:51:00.000-04:00

I got a good old-fashioned a$$ kicking on the Pere Marquette river yesterday. But I loved every minute of it. High water last week brought in a big push of REALLY hot chrome steelhead. These fish were all go from the first one we hooked. I got my first on, and subsequently lost it, within a few minutes of hitting my first spot.

Late morning I hooked a charged-up buck that schooled me. From the initial head shake, it was clear this fish was going where HE wanted to go and had no interest in my efforts to persuade him otherwise. I started chasing him downriver and cranked up the drag on the reel. None of which mattered in the slightest. After a pretty good fight that took me into my backing, the 6# tippet finally gave up.

This is what steelheading's all about for me. The adrenaline after that fight was insane! I was left shaking and with tremendous respect for the powerful creature I'd just tangled with. Very cool.

Had a couple more good fights, and with a total of 11 hook-ups. And ZERO landed! Best of all, I had a BLAST and was in no way disappointed. The tug truly is the drug!

Ham n' Eggs

2011-04-29T11:19:00.000-04:00

Just when I thought I had my egg tying program down, I find a whole new world. I've been tying round eggs and nuke eggs using primarily McFly Foam. I've gotten very proficient at making perfectly shaped and sized eggs in a wide range of colors efficiently.

But, I've been mostly tying for Fall conditions. This Spring I've been exploring clown eggs as a solution for all the high water we've had in the Midwest this year. On a recent trip with Brad Petzke he turned me on to the clown egg pattern from Hawkins Outfitters. Now I'm bulking up my tying materials stock with yarn, which makes much better rag eggs than the foam. And after tying up a couple of dozen I'm getting very fast and with great quality results.

My last steelhead trip was on a blown-out day on the Pere Marquette where nothing was working. Hoping to get in one more trip this Spring and hope to prove these new flies effectiveness! Unfortunately, if they do work it will benefit me next Spring. For now, getting ready for trout on streamers and upcoming smallmouth season.

-Sean-

Pedal to the Metal

2011-04-27T16:40:00.000-04:00

OMG, a blog entry not about fly fishing? Seriously? Yup.

Now that temps are warming I'm starting to think more seriously about my bikes. Up first is my mountain bike. Regular readers will know this ride is a SE BM Flyer single-speed 29er with wheels built by Steve Sauter of Great Lakes Cycle and Fitness, along with a collection of other sweet parts including a White Industries Eno Eccentric rear hub and Avid BB-7 disc brakes.

My plan for this season was to replace the stock house-brand cranks with something more rugged (and less creaky!). Courtesy of my buddy Josh, I scored some gently used Profile BMX cranks. As the rest of this mountain bike is really just and overgrown BMXer, why not use the best of the breed? These welded tubular cranks are bulletproof. The 48-spline connection means a precise fit and indestructible performance. The stock cranks are 175mm and these are 165mm. I'll give up a little in taller gearing, but will gain some much-needed pedal clearance.

Dropped the bike off today so they can order me the appropriate bottom bracket. I think I'll have them do the install as this seems like an area where my dated bike mechanic skills could enable me to destroy some pricey gear. The fit of arm to spline is like nothing I've ever seen - redefining close-tolerance!

Eager to get this mod made and out there. With that, I'll be done for a while until it's time for new tires. Or, if I stumble on a nice suspension front fork...

-Sean-

Chuck & Swing

2011-04-26T08:40:00.000-04:00

Found a nice combo last week on our frustrating steelhead day on the Pere Marquette. Brought along my Orvis Clearwater/Orvis BLA IV set-up for chuck n' duck and my Scott A3 switch with Ross Momentum V and Rio Skagit short for swinging. With high water, my go-to indicators seemed rather pointless. This proved to be the ideal combo for an enjoyable day.

With a thin running line (I use Climax Zip Line on mine currently) and a good bit of weight, c-n-d was a good way to get down to the bottom with a lot of water. On a tough day, it was a good choice. However, I generally can't fish this style all day. I find it tedious and too repetitive after a while -- especially if the fishing's slow.

Enter the swing rig! If you haven't cast a set-up like this, it's just pure fun. Once you get timing down it's very low effort and relaxing. There's a kind of Zen groove to it. And it's easy to cover a bunch of water. Stop your cast high, use the upper hand as a pivot point, and put the power in the bottom hand and BOOM!

For me though the best part of swinging is trying out some of the streamers I've been tying over the Winter to see how they behave in moving water. My earliest efforts definitely lacked much action, but the later flies with schlappen collars and bulky wool heads make a huge difference. Totally "swimmy" action. Of course, it would have been validating to actually hook something!

This combo was a nice way to work a hole. Chuck n' duck through, then swing by starting at the top and making a few drifts before stepping downstream and repeating the process.

-Sean-

Rip n' Strip

2011-04-25T13:09:00.000-04:00

Getting excited for Spring and upping my streamer game for trout and smallmouth this season. The final parts of my new rig for this style are coming together just in time.

As of now, I've got a Scott A3 907-4 rod, a Ross Evolution LT 4 reel with a spare spool, and Rio sinking tip in 200 grain, as well as Rio Outbound Short intermediate line. I really like the Evolution, so I've ordered another spool that I'll put my 300 grain Rio sink tip on for high-flow situations.

I've done a little streamer fishing and always found it a fun style. In clear water it's very cool to watch a charged-up trout pursue and crush your fly. I'm eager to try this style out locally on the Huron River for smallmouth (that's what the intermediate line's for). With gas prices rapidly racing toward $5.00 a gallon, maximizing local fishing opportunities seems well-advised.

Motivation behind this set-up actually started with my Fall trip to Montana's Stonefly Inn this October. This is prime streamer time for big trout in this region. After reading a little, I decided I needed to get my streamer game up a notch. And, if I'm going to be throwing it for 4 days, I thought I should have a rig that's comfortable and delivers great performance.

Get wait to get out and play with this new gear!

-Sean-

Water, Water Everywhere

2011-04-22T13:02:00.000-04:00

Spent some time on the Pere Marquette river over the past couple of days with buddies Dan and Mike. A huge volume of recent rain made for some interesting conditions. We fished a few hours on Wednesday night with a TON of water in the river. Some very careful wading was necessary. Oh, and it was SNOWING on us the whole time.

Thursday got off to a better start -- I had a nice buck in during the first half hour. Unfortunately after a couple of acrobatic jumps he threw the hook, gave me the fin and went on his way. We fished several holes, all day and this was pretty much the story of the day. Between three of us we went 0 for 4 on hook-ups.

I took this as a good opportunity to practice spey casting with my switch rod. If you're going to not catch fish, this is way more fun than Chuck n' Duck. A good opportunity to play with casting and fishing my swing rig. Also, got to put a couple of the steelhead streamers I tied over the Winter to work Very cool.

The high water was fascinating. Though I've probably fished the PM more than any other river and generally know my way around decently, much of the river was unrecognizable due to high water.

One good lesson learned to pass along. I brought both my studded and unstudded boots. When I asked our guide on Wednesday night about studs in his boat. Upon learning they were the bad ass Simms HardBite cleats, he asked me to go unstudded. These cleats are awesome - I think I could walk up a tree - but they look like they'd leave a fiberglass drift boat in shreds. If you're fishing guided from a drift boat, ask first!

-Sean-

Big Water

2011-04-19T16:10:00.000-04:00

Got a copy of the promo video for my trip this Fall to the Stonefly Inn in Twin Bridges, Montana. Wow -- what a cool location and experience! I've always wanted to fish the storied rivers of the West and this looks like a great way to start.

Kudos Schultz Outfitters for putting together this top-notch trip. Evidently in early October, we'll be fishing primarily streamers. I've only done this for trout a couple of times, but the strike is so cool when a big fish blows up that big gaudy fly!

On the video I saw rainbows that could have easily passed as a small-medium steelhead! We don't see that in the Midwest. I'm actually looking forward to trout season this year; it's such a pleasant way to spend a Summer evening.

-Sean-

Real Steel

2011-04-18T09:50:00.000-04:00

Trekked up to the UP on Friday for a day fishing with Dad and guide Brad Petzke. This was our first time fishing the Lake Superior tributaries and it didn't disappoint. Few people know the steelhead rivers of this region like Brad. We spend the day on a beautiful river with cascading waterfalls, rushing runs, and a natural splendor that's unique to the UP.

The fishing style is very unique as well. Think of it as "technical chuck and duck". With high spring water and mostly pocket fishing, indicators would have been nearly useless. When you need to get down into a 5' hole behind a boulder, nothing sinks like skinny line with some weight on it.

Fishing was tough, with clear skies and a sudden cold snap. And wild UP steelhead make you earn it. But the work was worth it -- some of the most intensely colored steelhead I've ever seen. Dad got a nice male in the afternoon, and I picked up a female in the late morning. Technically, I didn't hook it, but I did land it!

If you're looking for a special experience in a most unique setting, definitely look Brad up. You won't regret it!

-Sean-

Fly Flicks

2011-04-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

If the Fly Fishing Film Tour is coming to a city near you, snag a ticket. Even if you don't fly fish, the cinematography, settings, stories, and music are a fun evening. From the opening sequence chasing Winter redfish in Louisiana, to a trek with hardcore smallmouth enthusiasts in Wisconsin, every one of these short movies was filled with enjoyment.

The F3T did crystallize one thing for me - this fly fishing thing is a lifetime of learning and opportunity. Chasing fish on a fly is just a different way to look at the world. Can I get this species in this setting to eat a fly? Can I learn how to do it better? Do I live for the challenge? Or do I need the instant gratification of bait fishing. What was interested to me was that all of the fanatics profiled didn't look down on bait, rather these are individuals who get a charge out of succeeding at doing something the hard way. I have a ton of respect for that outlook. Sure, I could pull plugs or run spawn and catch lots of steelhead. But it's SO much more fulfilling to figure out how to get a charged up fish to eat a piece of lint on a hook, or a conglomeration of feathers and tinsel on the end of a piece of sinking line.

Check it out. You'll be glad you did.

-Sean-

Spey Play

2011-04-07T11:05:00.000-04:00

Finally, I have all the components of my two-handed spey rig. My reel arrived a couple of weeks back, but I haven't had time to get it spooled up with the line. Hoping I can get that done before I head to the UP later next week. While it's not really swinging season, I am eager to experiment with laying out some casts. I've done enough with my switch rod over the Fall and Winter to feel like I have some basics down.

For those not familiar, I picked up a classic Scott ARC-1287-3 rod (12"8" in 7 weight). To this I added a Ross CLA 6 reel. I'll be spooling it up with Rio Skagit in 500 grain. From all that I've read, this rig should throw some sweet casts. Eager to get in the Manistique river and belt a few out. I've signed up for a spey school this summer, so hopefully by next Fall I'll have some skills.

-Sean-

It's In the Bag

2011-04-06T09:59:00.000-04:00

My Steelhead Alley trip illustrated a need for a different sort of bag - a backpack. I've used an older REI backpack on boat trips for a couple of years now. A great way to organize chaos. But Ohio was my first time using a backpack to hike in and cover ground. Unfortunately, the REI bag quickly proved a failure. While it holds a ton, a lack of any pockets or dividers sent me digging to the bottom every time I needed something. Plus I started with a centerpin, but carried a fly rod for smaller waters. Sticking the rod tube in the outside water bottle pockets was quickly destined for failure.

I love the Simms Dry Creek Day Pack, I'm not investing $130 in another bag. If I were willing to spend that kind of cash, that's the bag I'd buy. But, fortunately I scored a lightly used Orvis Safe Passage Angler's Back Pack at a great price. Time will tell, but this pack seems MUCH more functional. Several pockets will enable me to keep a jacket separated from fly boxes, tippet, tools, and my lunch! Well-designed rod straps on both sides makes it easy to carry a spare rod (for example if I want to fish dries and nymphs without heading back to the truck to swap rods). As a bonus, the pack is compatible with a hydration bladder. The straps and back of the pack have a nice system designed for good airflow -- a great feature for hot days! Plus, it's got a nice carrying system for a net. Definitely a good investment. If you're looking for a pack, Orvis has them on sale for $99 which seems like a good deal.

-Sean-

Don't Choke

2011-04-05T10:11:00.000-04:00

One of the cool new benefits of the Remington Versa Max shotgun is finally having access to a system of interchangeable choke tubes. With my other shotguns being older, I'd never really ventured into the world of changing chokes. The Versa Max came with five chokes and a wrench, so swapping is completely simple.

For a great discussion of chokes and their effects on patterning at certain distances, try this site.

My first outing for clays was with the Cylinder choke that came installed. I find that my natural tendency is to shoot clays further out. Per the diagram link above, a Cylinder choke delivers a 40" pattern at 25 yards. That's pretty close. At the suggestion of a friend, I swapped to the Improved Cylinder choke, which patterns at 30 yards. The improvement was noticeable from the first station on this weekend's outing. My percentage of broken clays went up significantly.

Naturally, this has me curious. What about a Modified choke that patterns at 35 yards? Maybe that allows me more time to acquire and track the target? I think it's time for further experimentation.

Beyond clays, this starts me thinking about choke tweaking for hunting situations. I was pheasant hunting with some friends a couple of years back and one guy had choked down to Full. He did very well that day shooting clean-up on the birds others missed. Hmmmm. Ducks look like an opportunity for a Full choke, also. But pheasants seem like perhaps Modified or Improved Cylinder. Definitely time to pick up a choke tube carrier so I can have options in the field. On the other end of the spectrum, I don't feel compelled to be the guy on the sporting clays course who seems to be continually swapping out chokes.

Just one more way the Versa Max is among the most easily user-adjustable shotguns out there. A solid new offering.

-Sean-

Review - Simms Rivershed Wading Boot

2011-04-01T12:48:00.000-04:00

Now that I have a few days in with my Simms Rivershed boots, I think it's time for a review. I picked these up last Fall to replace my aging Simms L2's. While the L2's are a great boot, they have a couple of key drawbacks. First, they're pretty lightweight for any serious hiking. And, second, the Aquastealth were an early rubber sole. The traction is OK, at-best. All of that aside, they've been comfortable, durable and served me well. It's just time for something more.

Last weekend I did my first serious hiking in the Riversheds down in Eastern Ohio's Steelhead Alley region. We waded a lot of water and hiked a lot of trails -- easily over 10 miles. The best praise I can give these boots? No blisters, no hot spots, and no stubbed toes. They were supportive, grippy (more on that in a moment), and remained comfortable all day. The conditions in Steelhead Alley are a real challenge - from flat ledge rock in the rivers to a super-slippery muddy clay on the banks. The Rivershed did it all.

Another benefit is the toe box. Stubbing a toe into a surprise basket-ball sized rock mid-stream can help you uncover some new words in your vocabulary quickly. The Rivershed toe box offers a nice rigid design and great protection -- while remaining flexible enough for good performance while hiking.

One issue you'll want to pay attention to is fit. I find the forefoot is considerably larger than my L2s. Initially I was concerned it was too large, but I've found a couple of things help. First, I added a liner sock which adds volume. But, more importantly, I've really made an effort to lace the lower up very tight. Both make a world of difference. I'll be trying an additional insole on the my next trip to see if that helps reduce volume without impacting comfort.

But the best upgrade was the Hardbite Star Cleat. These things are bad ass! Simms claims the offer equivalent grip to 5 conventional studs and I believe it. The shale ledge bottoms of Steelhead Alley are notoriously slick, difficult wading. No problem with these cleats! I'm eager to try them in some other tough spots.

Another benefit is my L2's will now have a new life -- as my boat boots, or for use in hot weather in easier conditions like the AuSable where the Rivershed might be too much boot.

If you're looking for a great boot at a great value, I highly recommend the Simms Rivershed.

-Sean-

It's a Sickness...

2011-03-31T11:35:00.000-04:00

I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol. I do not need another pistol.

Just need to keep telling myself this. Even though I could score a nice deal on a Remington 1911 R1. From the looks of it, a pretty sweet gun. I've always liked the .45 ACP round. And, from what I've read, Remington has done a very nice job with their version of the timeless John Moses Browning classic. But .45 ammo's expensive, and I don't shoot the handguns I already own enough. Just gotta' keep telling myself that.

-Sean-

Ross Love

2011-03-29T16:31:00.001-04:00

A couple of new reels arrived for the quiver - and both just strengthen my loyalty to the Ross Reels brand.

The first is a CLA-6 for my spey rod. I wanted a reel large enough to hold a Rio Skagit Short line, and balance out my Scott ARC 1287-3 rod (at 12' 8" that's a fair bit of rod). I own three other CLA's, but all are smaller. This new one's like an extra-large, extra-beefy version. Seems like it will be perfect to throw on the spey stick. Very impressive, especially at the price point. Funny though, the market calls it a "guide favorite". Knowing a few guides, I think this ironic. For client gear, most guides seem to aim toward good quality with a keen eye toward reliable performance. In a reel that means that they can hand them to clients of all levels of ability and awareness and expect solid performance throughout the season. Ultimate precision isn't typically the goal; a good dunking and a sand bath will kill that reel quickly. This reel meets these goals perfectly -- rugged, performance that will last for years without bells and whistles you don't need.

The second is an Evolution LT 4 and spare spool. This one's going to be for my streamer rig for chasing trout and smallmouth. One spool will get a Rio 200 grain sink tip, and the other a Rio Outbound Short. I'd seen this reel in a case at a recent show, but wasn't prepared for how impressive it would be in reel (ha) life. What an amazing piece of design and machining. Light, durable, and super cool looking. Shocking how light it is for a size 4. It will be great balanced on a 9' Scott A3 7-weight streamer stick! As mentioned previously, I do a lot with precision machined parts in my day job and this thing is incredibly well-done. As a bonus, it incorporates a super-simple drag system that just looks bulletproof. I think I may actually pick up a third spool and put my 300 grain sink tip on it too. This product completely exceeded my expectations.

All of this is why I've gone to standardizing on Ross Reels for all my rigs. Every one has consistently exceeded my expectations. Now I just need to talk myself out of the blisteringly cool F1...

-Sean-

Dalley in Alley

2011-03-28T09:12:00.000-04:00

Spent a day in Steelhead Alley region with Mike Schultz yesterday. He was scouting as prime guiding season started today and invited me to tag along. I've heard legends of Steelhead Alley, so I wanted to go see it myself. If you're not familiar the region runs along the south shore of Lake Erie. We were to be working the eastern end (we started out about 2 miles from the PA border).

Despite being only a few hours away, this region is completely different from anyplace I've fished in Michigan. The geological structure is all shale, including the riverbed. It makes for a very different program. Plus, the scenery was pretty amazing, especially considering that at one point we were in a canyon in downtown Ashtabula, OH!

We fished on the Conneaut and Ashtabula rivers and covered a LOT of ground so Mike could check out some spots. These rivers are all spate, meaning that unlike Michigan they're not spring-fed. The water in these rivers is primarily from run-off. What's interesting is that every season's ice formation and melt-off can drastically change the nature of the river. Guides have to quickly assess what's changed to find the best spots to bring client.

Mike got a couple on the board pretty quickly -- both out of the identical spot! Took me a while to get going as I was adjusting to a whole new progam. But around lunchtime I had my first fish on. After a spunky fight, I got sawed off on a shale ledge. Boo! In the afternoon, we switched rivers to see more ground. Late in the day I hooked a fired-up skipper and fought him for a bit. Unfortunately he got unhooked just about the time we reached for the net.

A very cool and unique experience. I'm glad I went. If you're considering it, I would definitely talk to Mike He's been guiding and fishing down there for a number of years and given the complexities of private land access taking your first trip with a guide is a solid recommendation.

-Sean-

The Virtues of Simplicity

2011-03-25T17:00:00.000-04:00

The simplest designs frequently seem to be the best. I was thinking about that as I did tear-down on my new Remington Versa Max shotgun last weekend. I must say that I'm impressed by the simple, straightforward design and execution of this firearm. Everything has a purpose, it comes apart and goes back together in a logical fashion that doesn't require a 4,800 page manual and a team of Chinese gymnasts to complete.

This complexity is one of my issues with Ruger firearms. While they seem to be great guns, someone at Ruger seems to take a special twisted interest in complexity for complexity's sake. Ever seen a Ruger Mark series .22 pistol taken apart? Lots of parts and the re-assembly sequence requires some truly ridiculous gyrations to comple. "Hold the receiver at a 17.5 degree angle and the firing pin retainer will slip in..." Seriously?

Scott fly rods are another product that seems to follow this mantra. They extol the virtues of carefully selected materials, lovingly assembled by hand. And the result is a rod that's light, but suprisingly powerful. Simple is better. I love their discussion of The Difference from their web site.

Even more than just a simple design is one that's truly well-thought-out functionally, but at the same time executed in a simple way. I think the Versa Max is a solid example of just that.

-Sean-

Tie, Not Buy

2011-03-23T16:43:00.000-04:00

I'm so glad I invested in learning to tie flies. It's rewarding on so many levels. But best of all (with some exceptions - like complex dry flies) may be the ability to tie what I need. This weekend I'm heading to the Steelhead Alley region of Ohio in pursuit of Spring chrome. Asked my buddy for his recommendation on flies and was told #6 and #8 clown eggs in two primary colors (can't reveal his secrets online!).

So I plop down at the vise last night and in about an hour-and-a-half I've got a nice assortment of over 3 dozen. Minimal cost, minimal effort. And ideally suited for the waters and time of year. When I head up to the UP in April, I'll throw in my vise, hook box, and supply of yarn. If I go through a bunch of flies (a problem on the Manistique -- lots of snaggy bits on the bottom) I can just bang our a few that night to refill the fly box. Nice.

-Sean-