Steelhead Chaser

The River is Producing but you Have to be determined.

2012-02-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

Well the high pressure last week helped nothing. Especially with the ripping east winds. So if you lived through the wind burns and now boarder line low water conditions. you may have stuck a few fish. We are getting some rain while I a sitting writing this blog. Plus the next week forecasts low pressure, never a bad thing. Take a look below if you were one of the angler not hitting a fish in the past week or so. Your time is coming don't give up....

Best fish I have seen this season to hand.

Three Beautiful things

Darcy's big winter chrome on the blue and white "Gaga"! Nicely done.

If you wanting casting advise or need a guide trip let me know.

Choosing colors in the world of winter Steelhead.

2012-01-22T14:41:00.000-08:00

A lot of options... What to pick???

Well shit. Choices, choices.... I have heard and even said,"Steelhead will eat anything. Your car keys, a cigar butt". When the conditions are good and all the stars are aligned then yeah Steelhead will grab anything. In reality 9 times out of 10 the conditions are never right. High and blown out, low and cold as hell. East winds or snow so thick you can't see the end of your Spey rod.

Don't let water conditions keep you from fishing. Even low water they can be had.

Now there are all kinds of flies for every occasion out there and every sink rate sink tip you could ever dream of. I do know one constant about Steelhead. The fish can't eat what they can't see! Now this is where my theories may differ from the rest of the world. So listen closely.

This happy client took this fish on a dark brown (like tree bark) temple dog style fly.

Lets start with low water. Low water is usually cold and clear. Low water is caused by a lack of rain or the fact that in the upper stretches of the river system is freezing. In both situations produce low water which can be the toughest for catching Steelhead. Cold water dormancy starts at around 40 in our local waters. Now with all this in mind, lets talk fly selection. Just like you can see all things that happen in your field of view, so can a Steelhead. These fish see in clear water like you see on a clear day. With this in mind it does not take a lot to get the fish to notice that something is there. The fact is that super bright flies do not seem to produce as well as more natural or natural tones. Olive, tan, Brown, even white. Now normally I would say that the colder the water the larger the fly but in super low water the fish will take smaller patterns and I believe that flies in the 2 to 2.5 inch range work best in these types of conditions.

In these less than perfect conditions I felt fly size was the key to taking this fish.

Now lets say the water is on the drop. The river is lower than the mean average flow and is clear but still not unlimited in the water clarity. Maybe 6 to 9 feet visibility. This is where large flies have produced the best for me. The fish seem to be holding in deeper water as the river drops but are still a bit active. This movement of the fish to deeper water is in anticipation of the river dropping. With the water temp hovering right around 40 the need for a larger offering is a great way to entice these chrome machines to a fly. I have landed fish as small as 22" on flies that were 12" long so when it is time it is time. A good winter Steelhead fly box should be very diverse. These big flies are usually darker colors like purple, black, or blue. Maybe a bit of flash highlights of even a bright butt of orange or pink. What ever you prefer.

The perfect conditions are sweet.

Super Sweet!!! Just ask Sean.

Now we have the perfect conditions! The river flowing is green and has 3.5' to 5.5' of visibility, the water temp is 41 to 43 degrees. This combination of conditions is unbeatable the fish are moving and with the lower visibility the fish take on a more curious nature. There is not really a bad color scenario the fish are moved into slower water on the sides of the main flow and usually in reach of a fly cast. Also moving fish hold high in the water column which make them more susceptible to the swung fly. I will note that on most rivers the perfect conditions are slightly higher than the mean flow the slightly higher water flow is what causes these perfect condition. The water rising above the mean mark is a product of rain, or melting snow or both. so this warming water makes the river giving it that perfect Steelhead green color that every Steelhead angler wishes for day in day out. If you see these stars lining up, don't go to work, skip out on the family.... Just get out on the river!

The big dark fly paid off in the super off colored water conditions. That day we had maybe two feet of visibility. Tight to the bank.

Now the last part of the river equation now the river is high... has lost it's green. Traded this Steelhead Paradise into a river now in the grass or willows with a faint tan or brown tinge. But upon a closer look we wade out in the coffee creamer looking water and see that there is 18" to 2.5' of clarity. All hope is not lost. In actuality you may have lost some of your favorite runs but The good high water runs are at there best. This high water period pushes the Steelhead to the only place they can be, the edges of the river. Close to the bank. Now here is where most anglers go wrong in high water. They fish Super heavy flies and tips. This is not a great way to go. I am sure as in all thing said about steelhead someone will point out a specific run on one of their favorite rivers that they have taken fish on heavy flies and tips. Steelhead rules are never set in stone. I say try everything and see if it works for you and your river systems that you fish. I use the same light tip I fish at lower flow. Depending on the type of turbidity I pick my fly color accordingly. If the stream particulate is bright and reflective I use flies that don't reflect light. The absence of light is the key to getting the fish to see your fly. Black, dark red, purple, these colors are the key to high water with glacial particulate or just bright reflective soil. I try not to tie flash into these flies at all. I want total absence of light, adding not so much lenght to the fly but mass. The flies 3" to 3.5" with a fair bit of bulk to the body work well. This light tip and lightly weight or unweighted flies works best. For one of two reasons the fly can be seen by the fish and with the light fly and light tip swings all the way into the bank. The steelhead will be there and if you are fishing and making swings all the way into the shore or willow line.

High water is not always bad.

Now I will repeat I an not saying that everything I just wrote is going to work every time but it does give you an easy place to start and might have shed some light on questions you may have had. As a Steelhead guide for the last 9 years and Steelhead angler for the last 16, I have kept great notes and tried to learn to fish in all water conditions. The above is just a condensed version of mt notes over the years. Good luck!!!!

Just gettin Creative

2012-01-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

Not Super Traditional but creative

Well I have been out a few times this year and seen fish to the fly on both occasions. But In my spare time I have been at the vise trying to produce so fresh ideas. Now not all of the flies patterns are or have any tradition but I think a few are rather creative and have a fresh look.

The fly above has taken a few fish already. I know it works. What I want to know is what you guys think about it. So shoot me a line in the comments section on this post. Thanks

January 3rd

2012-01-04T17:04:00.000-08:00

A great way to start the winter Steelhead season!!

I am just gong to say that during the course of you fishing or guiding career, one notices similar criteria that bring success. These instances are often recorded either in a fishing journal or even just made a mental record of. For me and my winter Steelhead fishing January 3rd is and will always be a day I Will fish. In the past 5 years I have fished 4 of them. During that time I have hooked fish all 4 of those years, and 2 of the 3 have produced fish over 15 lbs.

It helps to keep those mental notes. I might go nil for the next decade but The last 5 years were well worth it. If you ready to go on a trip let me know. There are a few fresh fishing running around, and I would love for you to hook one.

The Waiting Game... Into The New Year...

2011-12-31T16:29:00.000-08:00

Most recent instantaneous value: 10,200 12-31-2011 15:45 PST

Well we had all been waiting for rain and then it came. With it I am sure a few nice bright winter Steelhead. So to all have a Great New Year!!!! Be safe, but have fun. I know I am going too.

Marry Christmas!!!

2011-12-23T08:38:00.000-08:00

I wish many of these to you all this season.

I just wanted to wish all my friends, sports, followers, and all the others who look at my blog. Marry Christmas and Happy Holidays. My you all catch beautiful Steelhead this coming year. SO GET OUT AND FISH!!

New flies are now in the shop!!

2011-12-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

These make great ammo.

Well Montana Fly Company delivered on time and the flies look great! Just ask Ben Nicolson from Down Under, we fished together on Sunday. We fished the Deschutes with the "Lady Gaga" in both blue and white, and blue and pink. With t-11 tip and a bit of casting and swinging instruction(to slow the fly down).

Great Day!! Nice second fish.

His first Steelhead trip became a great one when he went 3 for 4. I wish I would have been so lucky. Fresh winter are coming on the west side but slowly as we have had no rain. When the flows get better so will the fishing. The Winter Spey schools are filling up but you can still get into the classes for the new year.

That's the way to begin a Steelhead career. Great job Ben!!

The ODWF must be F'N crazy

2011-12-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

The 2012 Fishing regulations are out. The Sandy river Basin seems to have some new rules that are a bit odd and from a conservation stand point flat out a slap in the face. It seems starting January 1st of the new year Killing of all steelhead up into the spawning grounds is going to be allowed. Now I know that the Native Fish Society has contacted the ODFW about New regs. The response was "That was a misprint" but since have not sent out a retraction nor changed the online regs.

Sandy River (Multnomah/Clack. Co.):

1. Mainstem and tributaries upstream

to ODFW markers at the mouth of

Salmon River

• Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead entire year.

• Open for adipose fin-clipped Chinook salmon Feb. 1-Oct. 31.

• Open for adipose fin-clipped coho salmon entire year.

• Closed within 200 feet of Chinook salmon spawning areas located in Oxbow Park

where posted by ODFW markers Sept. 16-Nov. 15.

• No angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the

Oxbow Park boat ramp.

• Use of bait allowed.

2. Mainstem and tributaries upstream

from ODFW markers at the mouth of

Salmon River, including the Salmon

River

• Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead harvest

the entire year.

• Angling restricted to artificial flies and lures with a single point hook no larger than 1/2

inch gap (size 1) and multiple point hook no larger than 3/8 inch gap (size 4).

• No limit on size or number of brook trout taken. Catch limits on other trout species do

not apply to brook trout.

Santiam River (Marion Co.):

1. Mainstem

• Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead

So if you are worried about wild Steedhead then let the ODFW know that these types of actions won't be tolerated. I think it is to get back at the NFS about the lawsuit they slapped them with last year. That just me and I might just be reading into it but it seems to be odd none the less.

Who Is Ready for The Dean!!!!

2011-11-25T10:15:00.000-08:00

Well this year it is on!!!! I will be going to the Dean River. Last year due to a greedy persons sense of entitlement I was unable to attend the trip I booked. This year will be different story. The trip this Year will be a Chinook/Steelhead trip. Dates are as followed June 15-21, This is primarily a Chinook week but Steelhead are an everyday occurrence.

If you are interested in joining me at Blackwell's Lower dean Lodge. Shoot me an email. I only have 3 spots left so the sooner the better. It is going to be a GREAT time. That I can Guarantee.

Spey Casting Class

2011-11-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

Working a long rod, helps give better understanding to all spey casting situations.

This Coming year I really want to put a lot of emphasise on teaching Spey casting. I am going to start offering line style specific classes. I want offer something to every body from beginner classes to teaching the fine art of distance casting.

My teaching style is simple and very comprehensive. I like to use simple analogies to convey the basic principles of the casting. No matter what style of casting you prefer I can help you improve line control distance and better help you understand how these thing apply to the fishing situations here in the Pacific Northwest.

Email is a great way to setup a class and if I don't get back ASAP I have not forgotten you I will reply as soon as I can. Prices will go as followed and are for one or two people.

Price List:

Basic Spey lesson 4 to 5 hours $200.00

Scandi Spey lesson 4 to 5 hours          $200.00

Skagit Spey lesson 4 to 5 hours           $225.00

Mid, long belly or distance Spey casting Lessons 4 to 5 hours     $275.00

I would also be happy to customize any lesson to fit your needs. These are also a great way to prepare for a trip. A third party may be added for an additional cost of $75.00. Just email me or contact me at the shop (503) 622-4607.

Just got some new Pics

2011-11-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well has been a while since the Clearwater Clave. I just received some pictures of the casting event and some of them turned out rather well. I have taken out the ones of me messing up (just kidding). Check out the picture below and look at the hand position and the finishing position in the pictures. I was happy with these so maybe you can learn from them as well.

I will be posting some fishing reports and photos soon.

Nothing Like First Light.

2011-10-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

An early morning hook up, just icing on the cake.

I can't think of a more peaceful time on any Steelhead river. After the sounding of the alarm clock and the first sips of morning Joe. The bus of a boat ramp or the quick drive to you favorite piece of water. First light is amazing!

As I look back on how many sunrises I have witnessed in my days Steelhead fishing. How many times the sound of the river morning is broken by the sound of a Canyon Ren, or the sound of a turning reel. Beginning a day not only chasing one of God's finest creations, but standing in some of the most wonderful places on earth.

So next time your out before light waiting for the morning fishing light. Tip your coffee cup to the river and the fish. Mostly to the fact your there not anywhere else.

Differnet Rivers, Different Perspectives.

2011-10-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

I must say that as Steelhead anglers we get caught up in a set way of doing things. Now don't get wrong I have an opinion about everything to but if you change rivers, or change conditions should you also change?

Great way to start a trip!

I was recently on the Clearwater River in Idaho. The River is huge! Did the fish take different flies? No. Did we use any special casts? No. Did I change fishing tactics? Yes. With a name like the Clearwater you might think that the river was clear. It was basically unlimited visibility. So fish in that are in the river are going to see you fly. How are they going to react?? Nobody can say. I do know that the more water you can cover the better your odds of finding a fish. So I started taking 4 steps between each cast. On rivers like my home water of the Deschutes we would move at half that pace. There was the first change.

New rod worked out well, I would say.

I also love fishing Spey rod around that 13' to 13.5' range. To me it just feels comfortable in hand and it is no problem to fish all day. On the Clearwater the runs are long and wide. Fishing 5 or 6 runs a day would be a chore and with today's short rods and scandi lines you cant cover all the water with very much efficiency at all. Now I am not saying you cant catch them on short rods and lines but I will say the further you can cast the more fish you will catch on the Clearwater, and the Snake for that matter. The uses of a rod in the 15 foot range is a better rod for the job on these rivers. I was consistantly fishing at 130 to 140 feet. With this in mind over the course of a day and a half I brought 5 fish to my fly landing 3 of them. The distance was the definite factor in the results, and Bruce Kurk (total Bad Ass).

Jet boats kick ass. Only way to go on big water.

Moral of the story is adapt to the rivers and what it takes to move those fish. The more rivers you fish the better angler you will ultimately become.
If your on the Clearwater and need any info or to buy some flies, or just want to meet a great guy go see Poppy at the Red Shed Fly Shop.

Todays casting tip.

2011-09-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

Words were never truer.

I saw this sign last week on the Clearwater. I had to get a photo. I would say that this is easily one of the most important keys to a successful fly cast. The smooth and consistent speed of the lift is the beginning part of the cast as the pace setter for the cast. If you lift to fast you have to keep increasing the speed to keep the tension in the line. We have all gone to fast, and know that it just does not work. So the new motto is " Smooths Always in Season". By the photo you can tell I received the inspiration for the new teaching aid from an adult beverage sign. Adult beverages have inspired me before so tell your buddies, and remember cast responsively.

Montana Fly Company.

2011-09-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

Well I made the big jump this past spring and turned in some of my Steelhead patterns to my good buddy Bruce Barry. He with some kind words, got Montana Fly Company to ok some of my stuff. A few summer Steelhead patterns, and a couple new intruder patterns. Take a look below see what you like and tell your local fly shops to get them in.

Gaga in blue and pink.

Lady Gaga in clear water colors, blue and white

Here are the new summer patterns.

The Get-cha-Some, just discribing what we all want to do.

The Outlaw, the name is pretty fitting.

Be sure to get these new patterns when they come out. The Fly Fishing shop should have some of the Lady Gaga's before the winter season starts.

Join Marty and Mia Shepard in saltwater heaven.

2011-09-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

Well it is going to be a kick ass time. Fishing with either of these two is an awesome experience. They are looking for people to join them down in Baja to do some Rooster fishing. If you have never fished Roosters they are FN sweet to fish. They take hard and don't ever give up.
As far as the amenities they are the best as anyone would expect. Everything beach front and right there. Marty and Mia are simply put just great people and have a great sense of humor to boot. For trip detail look below it will be wroth every penny.We want you to join us!

Hosted trip 2012 from marty sheppard on Vimeo.

Guests are housed in custom built villas in an ideal setting on the Bay of Dreams. 5 days fishing 6 nights in 5 star accommodations on the beach overlooking the Sea of Cortez at the Bahia de Los Suenos. A chef will be on site to cook meals. Anglers will be transported to and from the airport in Cabo San Lucas. The fishing day begins and ends in front of the property. Captains pick up guests on the beach to transport to the fishing grounds Flies are presented to the excited feeding fish. The action can be fast and furious. The Beach in front of the villa often holds rooster fish and jacks and can produce excellent bonus fishing at the end of your day.

Trip Rate is all inclusive except for tips, alcohol, air fare and fishing tackle.

Rental fly fishing gear available upon request.

Please contact us for more details as we have a few spots open and we want YOU to join us!

littlecreekjd@earthlink.net

Well The season pushes on...

2011-09-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

As we can all see this years Steelhead counts are low to average. I could lie and say that they were better but that's just not the way it is. Are there fish HELL YEAH, might you have to work for them OH YEAH.
Years like this to me are great! they are great for the river, and great for the perspectives of true steelhead anglers. In the years with 600,000 Steelhead over Bonneville dam, any and everybody can be a Steelhead Fisherman. With the years we are having, only the hard and only the strong willed will survive. Also you might become a better caster out of the deal, LOL. I thought that was funny.

What a sweet wild hen, on a size 10.

Camp water can be as good as any other place.

Small Streetwalker, they don't get any dirtier.

Here are some recent pictures just to keep your spirits up. Unlike unicorns they are there. Keep that line in the water!!

Summer Steelhead and good friends

2011-08-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well I cant say that the Steelhead fly fishing has been out of control good on the Deschutes lately. I can say I have had some good times and few great laughs and have caught myself and seen some of my buddies get a few so that's what counts. I was able to capture a few of theses good times on camera. I hope you enjoy.

Three beautiful things.

Is that Corey Hart? Nope just an excited Josh Linn.

Sweet sun on the water action.

Single handed bamboo, classic fly , and a hot backing ripping wild summer steelhead

Poppy in action! What a stud!

I don't think you can get them any earlier that this one.

Eye to eye with the beast.

Remember keep that fly in the water and stepping down river, it will happen. It is always going to be the next cast.

Just Something I Found Interesting!

2011-08-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a very interesting artical about the marking of hatchery fish. We may have been doing it wrong for decades, most likely completely wrong. Just take a look and tell me what you think. In my oppinion it make sense why the hatchery fish tend to move more and seem not to hold well for swung fly fishermen.http://www.canada.com/technology/Clipping+hatchery+salmon+could+reduce+swimming+ability+study/5086227/story.html

My Trip to the CLA

2011-08-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Blenhiem Palace

As I sit down and begin to write this to you, I am still trying to shake the last bit of jet lag out of my eyes. The Time that I have been back has been plugged by guide trips and shop time. The reality of the trip not setting in until now. The things I saw, the people I met, and the things I accomplished. Are now starting to weigh on my mind.

The Bridge at Carron, what a site!!

The Weather is Scotland reminded me of Portland, Or. As I stepped out of the Glasgow airport the 63 degree rainy air, it felt like home. James awaiting my arrival. With a heavy hand shake and smiles we were off. The drive from Glasgow to Kilsyth was short and sweet, mainly because James and I were catching up and talking fishing, history, and the gamefair. Before I was even able to drop off my bags and situate my things. We had pulled into a small gravel parking lot. Where there were about 5 other cars already. James winked and smiled,"lets go meet the boys". I then realized where I was. We were at the quarry. The quarry is a distance casters dream. A ton or room, easy to wade, a solid platform, and a tall cliff 62 yards from the platform that makes a great target and measuring tape! if you catch my drift.

James, the man, the myth, and legend.

The boys at the quarry were all ages and casting levels. Everyone of them had the bug, they wanted to be better casters. The quarry has just a great atmosphere and it is relaxing and fishing stories and small talk jokes and laughter were all common. To all the boys at "The Quarry" you guys kick ass!

Getting some good practice at "the Quarry"

There is not enough to be said about James Chalmers. He is many things. A line wizard, casting bad ass, history major, and has more connections to the fishing world than maybe anybody I have ever met. James got the job of looking after me for the duration of my trip. If that was not enough, the man even managed to put together some fishing time on the River Spey. James you are the man, and a great friend. I will be seeing you real soon buddy.

Malcolm, Duffer, and I fishing the Spey.

As the week pushed on the practices started to mean more. Then with the arrival of Gerard Downey aka "the Champ" we really started getting ready. All the team members preparing themselves for the up and coming battle. James, Ian, Gerard, and myself were living the life of a distance caster training at an Olympic level. Eating, sleeping, and living for nothing but spey casting. I must admit I did fall in love with the roll & sausage with a tattie scone and the brown sauce. A lovely way to start your day. Couple that with a nice spot of tea and milk, now your talking. Breakfast of casting champions. I also had to dabble in the world of Mt. Dew substitutions. The only thing that's was recommended was Irn Bru. A super caffeinated version of Fanta, American Fanta I must say not the UK version. Here and there I was able to get a hold of the good Dr. Pepper. For the most part high octane caffeine drinks were scarce.

Got to support the team.

On the other hand I did try a few of the local beers and some of them were stellar. Being from the North West we pride ourselves on good beer. The couple I will mention might not make the top of the list here, were very good beers and even here would receive high marks. The first was 70 shilling, and the second was John Smith's Extra Smooth. Awesome amber colored full flavored beer if your are in the UK and are in need of a good beer you can use these recommendations.

One of the fine UK beers I sampled.

Now it was time to make the pilgrimage to England for the big show! Big was an understatement. The CLA gamefair was easily one of the best run, organizes, and largest venue of any kinda I have ever been to. The energy of the show is electric, make one just boil with excitement. Over the 3 days that I was at the fair, I don't think I managed to see even 20% of the stuff. This place is massive. Upon entering the gates of the fair on Friday, promptly at 8:30 am we made the almost 3/4 mile walk to the Spey casting platform. Just as I thought things were already underway. The team quickly assembled our weapons. taking a close look at our leaders and running lines before our first shots at the platform. The first set of casts and the last set of casts at the CLA will be etched in my mind forever. The morning was the coolest of the days at the gamefair. the wind slightly blowing from right to left. not real great for a right handed caster. The other competitors trickling in, and everybody sizing one another up. There was nobody stand offish or anything like that at all. Everybody there was super happy and friendly, better yet loved distance Spey Casting. Talking lines, rods, and running lines and leaders was just like at the comps back home. We all share similar ideas no matter where in the world you are. anxiously I walked over and placed my name on the heat list. Waiting for my named to be called I took my first real good look at the course. The 30 degree angle change seemed narrow, and the direction of the cast was what I though odd when compared to the casting platform. The buoys seemed to stretch forever, highlighting every 10 meters with a bright orange buoy. By the time I was able to get in my first set of casts, the gamefair was in full swing. People everywhere, going every direction. Stepping out on to the casting platform my hands started to sweat. I politely intro ducted myself to the Judge on the platform. quickly judging the wind, I saw the boat judges raise there hands to signal that they were ready to begin. The platform judge started counting down from 5, 4. I now new that at 1 it was go time, 3..2. I looked quickly down the rod to make sure that the line was not wrapped. 1!! At the CLA you must start casting with the leader in your hand. Making part of your 4 min. getting the line out and enough running line off the reel so that if you do hit a big cast your ready. I was ready for this, at home I had practiced under a timed situation. I pulled off the shooting head and set it up then went to stripping off the running line. 25 pulls should do it. Trying to relax I made a few switch casts attempting to get the feel of the rod I had been casting now for a week. Finally I felt the tip on that one, I told myself. Here we go! Life seemed to be in slow motion. I watched the anchor touch the water and I was into my forward progress. The tip loaded and off was my first cast. Being the first American caster over to the CLA in about 7 or 8 years, I was under to watchful eye of the casters as well as the crowed. My first cast was good not great but good. Now the feeling of confidence came over me. From that point on I just seemed to get smoother and better, making me feel more and more confident casting on the platform.

Getting some casts in the night before the finals.

The days went by so fast, everything after that kinda a blur. All that came to a screeching halt when Gerard Downey, good friend and also a member of the Carron Casting team. Late on the morning of Sunday the 24 of July made history right in front of the world myself included. when he Broke his own world record!! From the perpendicular vantage point I had that cast was the second must impressive cast I have ever seen. The first most impressive happen later that day when Gerard again smash that record in the finals of the CLA. On his last cast in true championship form he set a distance in Spey casting that I think will be around for a while. 70.63 meters is a long ways out there. I thought that I was casting well and a cast like that can just reset you perspective on the possibility of the Spey casting. Gerard you are nothing short of a true gentleman and that was a pleasure to watch. Another part of the trip I won't ever forget.

The guys and I holding the weekends winnings.

The crowed and myself started to settle down as "The Champ" walked off the platform. A standing ovation was given, and rightly so. The powers that be quickly assembled the top 6 finalist for a photo and to start the awards ceremony. 3 members of the Carron team made the finals. Carron received a first and a second. All were there to witness a new milestone in casting with a new world record in the books. Plus we brought home the manufactures trophy. What a week! I can't wait until next years CLA. I might already be practicing.

I would say I had the time of my life. As it is with most great experiences the people you are with make the trip. Thanks again Big Ian, James, Malcolm, Gerard, and all the boys at the quarry. You made my trip worth every second.

The Champ in action.

To anybody interested in the CLA gamefair, here is the link Gamefair. If you are interested in competition casting them I would start here Carron rods and lines.

Switch Rods....WTF!

2011-07-03T10:46:00.000-07:00

Look at this pile of graphite

Now I know that I am going to piss some people with this post, but I have to say something. Switch rods in my opinion are a super specialized and situational tool. In the nicest way that is all I have to say about that. I think they suck.

Now here is the problem with the switch rods (in my opinion). They are or become to heavy for true single hand casting, all day. The rods also are short right, this reduces leverage when spey casting. Now you don't need a ton of leverage for floating line work, I agree. But when people want to cast Skagit lines with switch rod here is where things get weird. Most of the switch rods that I think have a nice casting stroke are soft. This puts them in the realm of 10.5' to 11 feet in length and usually in the form of a 7 wt or lighter. Now that I have sacrificed all my leverage with a switch rod. I then need a heavier rod to cast a heavier Skagit line in order to cast the same sink tips and flies that I would cast on a full sized spey rod. A full sized spey rod in my oppion of spey rods starts at 13 feet. By condensing the rod length the rod must become stiffer. Making these rods become almost completely timing dependent. Taking away from the feel of the rods casting a fishing ability. Stiffer rods are tougher to cast plain and simple.

Now to make things even more confusing in the world of spey lines. A 7 wt spey line typically won't work on a 7 wt switch rod. That's nothing new right Sage's 7 wts are usually 9 wts at least. The fact of the matter is now we have more lines on the market, more choices and for the average guy. I can see why and how they might be confused in the line world.

Do I believe in tackle evolving?? Yes, but as new products come into play the manufacturer keeps the old typically outdated product as well and so now we have 2 or in some cases 3 lines in the same grouping by one manufacturer. This whole ideology for producing new lines while still holding on to the technology makes everything more complicated for us all.

Last but not least my favorite Switch Rod scenario!!! The guy how totally believes that he can buy one switch rod to fit 5 different fishing applications all with only the one rod and one line. I love this because just for steelhead fishing alone you need two. Then throw in overhead for bass, surf casting for stripers and, dry fly fishing trout. This just kills me. This person needs 4 lines at least and maybe even 5 to do all those things well with one rod, the fish ranging form 8" trout to in the case of the strippers 20 lbs. This just can't be done well with the current situation.

The last thing I want to say is that I have seen it a ton of times a guy wants to get into two handed fishing and thinks a switch rod is gate way. I always tell them that they will be back in less than 3 months to buy a spey rod. I don't think that I have been wrong on this yet. What ever the reason, the person comes back and buys a spey rod and never picks up his switch rod for steelhead again. Remember all these posts are just food for thought. If you don't like the post, that's fine with me too.

Tight lines,
Travis

The CLA

2011-06-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

Well it is fast approaching!! The CLA gamefair, the largest outdoor sporting show in the world. With it is all encompassing venues from fishing and hunting to dirt bikes and falconry this show has it all. This year this spectacle will be held in England at the beautiful Blenheim Palace. The history and True taste of traditional rich English class of this place is not to be matched. The grounds giving the use of 2,000 acers. This will accommodate the 200,000 plus spectators not counting the 140,000 vendors, food booths, and informational stands.

I am going for one of two reasons. The first to the reasons is going to see my good friends from Scotland and Ireland. The second is to cast at the prestigious 18' unlimited casting comp at the CLA gamefair. I must confess I have gone crazy! Casting taking over my mind... I think and breath spey casting. Lately I have been out with my 18 footer. Trying to make sense of the distances that I am supposed to be getting(if I want to even try to compete). If you recall I wrote a blog last month about my first few times out with the 18' weaponry. It was heavy and clumsy in my hands. The line was seemingly unbalanced. With some time under my belt and a few Minor line adjustment. I think I am getting close. Only time will tell.

21 days and my dreams of Scotland are true. The historic rivers, the highlands, and maybe some whiskey... Yeah that stuff too. Wish me luck and check out the link to the CLA. find them on facebook. Or even come and attend.The CLA gamefair

The Water of My Youth.

2011-06-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite runs.

The Salmon River opened up to fishing just the other day. I had not fished on this stretch of river for many years. Although the memories of the river and it's beautiful water and fish, are chiseled in my mind. I took my dog and walked him along a few of the pieces of water that I use to love to fish. I was memorized by the runs. Studying the changes and putting a plan in my mind on how I might now fish everyone of the as I past stopping to piece the pools together. Examining every pool for the sign of a fish. Even the looking for suspect shadows and every dark line in each tail out.

No fish were seen but that mattered not, I was excited. I was walking along a beautiful peace of my past. Remembering things that I had not thought about for years. Looking at the plants, flowers and listening to the water rushing and birds. Finally kneeing beside the river in a spot where I had landed a number of summer steelhead. Reaching out and feeling the water with my hands. Cold but familiar to the touch and smell.

Walking on down the river a good ways further. I came to over look the spot where I had risen my first steelhead to a skated dry, again searching for a fish... But none were seen. The walked down seemed like miles but when I reached the end and had to turn around. The walk out seem quick and short, looking at the water but not quite the same. Stopping only to linger at the top of the canyon to get one more look at the water. I will be back armed with my favorite rod and a small box of flies, if for nothing else but to re-live those pieces of the river again. Pondering the simplistic beauty of our sport and being grateful that it has touched my life.

To many times we get caught up with the fish and numbers and size. When what we should be looking at is the quality of life that the rivers themselves can offer an angler. Hold your head high at the end of day of angling regardless of the out come. Because when time is spent on beautiful water searching for the answer to hit you like a ton of bricks. Your mind is clear and pure, and maybe that's the answer or maybe that's the beauty.

Enjoy.

The Wild World of Hair Flair

2011-05-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

Well, with all of the hype to do with fly tying materials in people's hair these days, we here at The Fly Fishing shop are trying to broaden the popular opinion of what can be used to jazz up your hair. We recommend you use, or try...

Flashabou, Krystal Flash, Ostrich Feathers, Rabbit strips, Holographic Tinsel, Angel Hair, or....

sporting new style!!!

...my new favorite--Zonker strips of Arctic Fox (we call it the Fox Hawk)!! Let me know what you guys are thinking, and tell your gals we got the goods.

Time to Get Very Serious, 18' of Serious.

2011-05-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

If your going to get serious, get the good stuff. Carron

Yesterday I finally dusted off my 18 footer. Standing wadered up on the edge of my casting pond I wondered once put together how the massive hunk of graphite might feel in my hands... Just what I thought soft, slow, and cumbersome. The rod much slower than it's 15 foot counter parts. Basically both rods take the same weight line to load, but one has a shit ton more power.

Stringing the rod seemed to take forever. The guides never stopped coming. Beings that I had not built a line yet for casting off a dock I just used an old Carron line from my 15 footer at about 75 feet. I knew that the line would turn over way to fast and not carry near as far but I need to get out. I needed to feel the rod bending in my hand. The CLA game fair only 8 weeks out. The need for practice is now and it is about time to put the tiny 15 footer away. The 18 footer is my new animal. I am going to spend the next 2 months with that in both hands.

The major difference in the 18 foot rod is the power it will produce. At the same time controlling a line in the 90 to 100 foot mark is something only the best casters can do. The simple fact is the longer the rod and line get, the smoother and slower you must go. Being deliberate and slow is key. Never letting slack in the line ever form lift to forward cast. The rule of lead before speed becoming increasingly evident and important. SLOW never meaning more than when you have an 18' tube of graphite in your hands. All the basic rules of casting just over emphasized.

The last thing about becoming a distance caster is you have to have the best stuff money buy. I know what your thinking that I am just trying to sell product. The truth is I don't own a fly shop nor do I rep any type of fishing equipment, so what do I care what type of rods and lines you cast. I don't. But if you want improvement it starts with change not by chance. The best equipment you can afford it will make your learning curve shorter, you will also learn better casting technique. In the end the money spent on great stuff will never be a bad move on your part, just a smart one. Wish me luck as I get ready for the big time.

Easy Rig Shanks

2011-05-06T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hope this photo helps out, as simple as you can make it.

Hey boys and girls here is an easy way to rig up waddington shanks. I start by using heavy mono like 20 lb. maxima. With just a simple clinch knot at the end of the shank and another on the end of what ever stinger hook you like to use( split shot drop shot are the best). Then your are in business. This way you can carry all your flies in a Ziploc bag and just rig on stream. Hope you guys and gals try this out I am yet to loose a fish or see a fish lost do to this rigging. I have seen other thing fail like the tippet. Enjoy.

The Week of Spey-O-Rama

2011-04-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight I finally sat down to regroup after a week in San Francisco, the Spey-O-Rama. My truck looks like an A-bomb went off inside. Littered with spey rods, lines, empty Mt. Dew bottles and fast food wrappers. Where to begin, all that's on my mind is next years competition.

Until you go down to see for yourself you will never know the pristine beauty of the ponds and club house at the GGACC. You will never know the electric atmosphere that each and every competitor brings to the competition. You will see the brightest stars in the world of two handed fly casting casting, the dedication of the competitors only matched by the likes of Olympic level athletes.

Standing casting in the ponds in San Francisco is unlike anything else I have personally experienced in the world of fly fishing. Casting next to the worlds best, still puts my in awe. Every year new thing Happen and new mile stones are achieved. This year was no exception.

Monday morning, busy already

Lets start at the beginning, I left work from the Fly Fishing Shop in Welches, Or. at about 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. Sunday evening lets say. Truck loaded to the hilt. Dropped off the Dog( Henry my very handsome yellow lab) at the dog sitters house. Thank you Vince and Tiff, you guy are the best. Straight to the gas station to fill up and off we go. Like every time one sets off on an adventure alone there will be challenges. My first was when your reach the point where on amount of caffeine you drink will keep you awake. Even with the windows down and the radio crack as loud as your ears can take, most likely before your ear drums burst. I got to where I was a road hazard. So at the rest area in Winters, Ca is where I found to spend my first night of the week of Spey-O-Rama.

The right rods for the job.

As tired as I was getting comfortable enough to sleep presented challenges in itself even across the front bench of a full sized Dodge pickup. Then when a nice young bunch of beer drinking Mexican decided to change a flat tire right next to me. It was kinda weird when you see 6 guys, 5 of then heavily drinking and 1 changing the tire. Maybe he was the DD whose knows I did not wait long to gather any info from the crew. That 3 hours seemed like a total waste. So I pulled into the first place that advertised diesel. None of the people that worked inside seemed to speak English, at least not to me, which is all that odd. The store just seemed disorganized the only thing I found that looked good was a blueberry danish that seemed a bit hard but beggars cant be choosers you know. Then I bought the worst cup of coffee I have ever drank. When you work as a fishing guide you get used to low grade coffee but this was off the charts. You would have wanted to brush your teeth after every drink. The only thing it did have going was the high caffeine levels that it seemed to be carrying.

A proper meal from Java Beach, the best.

The next leg went more smoothly straight to the ponds where is was not the only competitor there bright eyed and bushy tailed ( more like tired as hell and had a raging head ache to boot). But as I had set out to do I slipped into my waders and started practicing for the week to come. After a few hours or a standard rotation between the casters there I had to eat a proper meal, so off to Java Beach. I have eaten more food at this place than anywhere in San Fran. The staff is great and food is too.

Worlds best beach shark fisherman, and the man from Carron

After a rough start to the week it smoothed out when the rest of the Carron team arrived. If you have never checked out www.carron.uk.com. James chalmbers our fearless team leader and a all around great guy. With the weeks intensity slowly growing over the days leading up to the big show. The boys and I still had time to have a few laughs. Mainly at the expense of the people of San Francisco. The best one we pulled off during the week while lunching in our waders was the story we told about being hired by the State of California to keep the beaches clear of sharks. We would explain that we did this by fishing for the sharks at night so not to alarm the local citizens during the day. Believe it or not most people ate this up and quite a few people were very thankful of the fact that we were keeping them safe they would shake our hands and give us big pats on the back, funnier than shit I thought.

Signing the contract

The week rolled on and we kept to the task at hand. Technique and good casting on the mind all the time. The overall nature of the event taking full grasp as the time came for drawing straws. In my typical fashion I stepped up and grabbed the first stick. I then ended up being the first guy in the pond, what are the odds of that. I feel that there is far more pressure during the qualifier than in the finals. I then went straight to the center pond pulled off some line and started switch casting. All the while the only thing on my mind was keep cool and set the bar high. I felt I cast like total crap but scraped together a score of 601. Which this year was a enough to get me into the finals. Then sitting there watching the rest of the competitors was kind of never racking. Hoping the best for everyone, but at the same time wanting the best for yourself. It makes it tough. I would have been less than 20 minutes after the qualifier before we were back in the ponds practicing for what lay ahead.

After a great night of sleep and a great cup of coffee with a tasty BBQ chicken sandwich, again thanks to Java Beach. I felt ready for the final.The air was calm and fair for every caster. The casting meeting and drawing straws was more quiet, a sense of tension handing over. The tension was not toward any other caster but each caster looking inside themselves trying to muster the courage and focus to prepare for the competition. The finals were as tight and eventful as any final could have been highs and lows hero's and losers. In the end it is the competition itself that provides the opportunity for the bonds of friendship and the growth of the sport we all work toward and love.

As I started this post. I must recommend to anybody and everybody interested it the double handed future and past. This is a must see and if you cant see then support would be great. Not money just your support(money would not hurt though). Thanks to all who were there and all my clients and friends that had my back though my casting and guiding. I love you all, that means you Josh and Marcy you guys are the best.

Sincerely,

The boys and I. James, Rauiri, Bruce, Gerard, Me

Travis

It sounds Weird, but you want this...

2011-03-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

Call the shop, order online, or just come in to get one. Everyone should have one.

The Past Couple of Weeks

2011-03-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

I finally got the chance to get one this year.

She could not resist the copper flash.

Thats the look of a happy angler.

Can they get any brighter???

Stuart Johnson's first Winter Steelhead. He caught this one in one of our schools.

A little foggy but a great first Steelhead.

Black and Blue strikes again,

WHAT A FISH!!

Hard work pays off!!

Returning the wild fish for a wild future.

I have been out on the river lately and just wanted to post some photos of the recent trips I have taken. I hope you enjoy. I did, the river has been good to me.

The T-Bone special

2011-03-09T21:01:00.000-08:00

A nice fish to hand on the T-bone Special

Well as they say Steelhead will eat anything. My buddy Tony proved that with his latest fresh out of the vise creation, the T-Bone special. It is not much to look at but the aggressive combination of red and chartreuse could not go untouched by a couple of Steelhead the other day. Like they say you cant argue with success. I hope you like the photo maybe it will prove to be inspiring to some. I just like the point that it proves, the harder you fish for Steelhead the more you catch.

Just had to put this up.

2011-03-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

I was out a couple of days last week and saw this thing. I had to take a photo of it. Other than that fish were hooked both days and boy were they hot and chrome. I hope the photo above does not give anybody else nightmares.

Cool Casting video.

2011-02-11T14:31:00.000-08:00

I was out practicing the other day with my good friend Josh Linn. He shot some great video. I like the way it came out. Filming your self is a great way to improve your casting technique. Check out how little energy is required to make this cast. I think the cast taped out at about 175' give or take but close enough.

Sorry about the lack of posting lately.

2011-02-08T21:37:00.000-08:00

I m sorry about waiting so long to post. My life has been very busy and fast paced. But anyway I am sure you guy and gals just want the scoop on what has been going down on the Sandy and Clackamas rivers.

Vince from the shop shows off a chromer he caught recently

The Sandy has been hit or miss, or as I like to call it standard steelhead fishing, both Josh and Mark Have been reporting the same kind of findings. 1 or 2 hook ups a day. The river looks new and in some spots much improved and others not so great. But with everything there are ebbs and tides.

I have also heard as of late that the Clackamas has been putting out a few more fish lately. Reports of 2 to 4 hook ups a day. Sound good to me but you never know until you get up there and do it. I urge everyone to get out and start fishing. It is going to be great one of these days real soon.

I will be more on top of the post from here on out, tight lines and good luck. Travis

Christmas comes early! We got Chrome!!!

2010-12-24T10:03:00.000-08:00

Do they get any brighter???

The holiday season is upon us. With this time of year comes family, food, and good will to all. So to show my respects for the holidays. I have been winter steelhead fishing. Taking the season in stride with my under layers and rain jacket. Hand firmly pressed to the often cold and wet cork handle of my favorite two handed rod. With the pursuit of anything especially steelhead you find some success. My success turn out to be a day with two fishy guys and the owner of this from the ocean beauty.

To all my friends, great clients and all that read my blog, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Tight lines. Your friend in fishing, Travis Johnson

Winter Steelhead Video

2010-12-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sandy River Steelhead from marty sheppard on Vimeo.

My buddy Marty was on the river yesterday and happen to shoot some great video footage of one of my sports landing his first winter chromer of the year. The timing was perfect and I will say Marty was freaking fast with getting the video rolling. Thanks Marty. I hope you all enjoy it, I know Marvin did.

The WALL!!!

2010-12-12T18:13:00.000-08:00

In life we always in one area or another have walls to get over. The picture above is my wall. That wall haunts my very dreams and when I cast it is all I can see. From the casting station to the base of the wall is 51 yards. How am I getting over this hurdle you may be asking? I recently drove down to San Francisco and cast in the pond in that exact spot and watched as I put many casts over and even some into the next pond. I think this is helping me build the confidence I need and is going to give me a nice edge, when I may need it. I think sometimes that I am crazy, now we know. Spey -o-Rama here we come.

His best trip ever.

2010-11-30T16:32:00.000-08:00

Wild buck, nice find.

Chrome hen.

Yeah it was cold.

I found this big boy.

Looks weird, but has worked all season and last.

The sweetest little guy you ever saw. Great diversity.

Classic wild buck.

A perfect day of steelheading.

Kick ass hen, into the backing.

First light, a wonderful time in late November.

A great fish for ending the days together.

My brother Kyle and I have been hitting the local rivers pretty hard. Through the cold, wind, sun, rain and snow, we fish. In the past week or so we took multiple fish everyday and some days a bunch. With a bit of hard work and some great and helpful steelhead, we had a great time. I only get fish with him maybe one time a year so, the time was more that just fishing. The morning coffee talks and fire side whiskey rambles just added to the hunt for the wonderful steelhead finding their ways up the rivers of a historic past. We laughed and each had some great memories, I just think we should fish together more. Here are some photos of the fishing hope you enjoy.

A great start to the day.

2010-11-23T16:23:00.000-08:00

A fine desert morning

Awaken by the annoying but seemingly mystical sound of a cell phone alarm. The first beams of dawns light still not quite visible, at least not to my eyes seemingly hard shut by the night before. My body has a better sense of what it is doing that the guy running it as I notice myself half way through making the morning cup of Joe. The coffee sound like the best idea I have had in awhile. It is going to be the first step in getting the taste of Coors Light and cheap cigars out of my mouth this fine November morning.

The air feels crisp, maybe 25. I was wrong thermometer says 27. While picking up the beer cans I notice the next of my evening follies. Left my waders outside, damn I needed to start a new fire anyway right. The coffee is working quickly today not even a whole cup and I am off for the morning movement. Done with that now I am feeling better. Deciding between another cigar or bacon and eggs, @#$! it I am feeling like a hundred dollars I will have both.

So I light up a new cigar, and start to enjoy this one being a slightly better make than the ones that were smoked whilst drinking. A good breakfast smoke. Speaking of breakfast I burnt the god damned toast. I would have gladly given these pieces to the dog but I only have heels left. I know I will just add more salt and pepper than normal, it will be fine. Waders are starting to thaw so I figure it is time to jump into them. Boot fits nice, but at first colder than I was anticipating. I could either pee in them or at least pour what is left of the current cup of coffee into these bad boys to warm them up. Now time to eat, quickly. Set the egg on the over seasoned burnt toast add 2 pieces of bacon fold bread in half. All seems wonderful especially the yoke drippings on the front of your waders. It is not that cold and I was planning to wade that deep anyway, right!!!

Sliding into my wading jacket. With a bit more inspiration start packing up camp. The movement triggers a good warm body heat. Giving the camp a final look no trash, no ash, and nothing important left behind. The best part of the morning yet to come. With an outreached hand that feel of cork in ones grip, and the revelation of a whole new day ahead. Excitement now taking the place of the hangover, and dawns full light show paving the way to great water. With all thing considered the life of a hopeless steelhead angler is just not that bad.

Lets talk casting

2010-11-11T16:42:00.000-08:00

I have had a lot of things on my mind lately. None more important than great casting technique. I know hard to believe right. Back to business The number one thing I can tell anybody who wants to be a great fishing caster, or a great distance caster is start with rock solid fundamentals. The start of each cast is the most important part as this sets the tempo for the entire cast.

1. The line must be taunt from fly or yarn to the tip of the rod. I don't care if you a scandi caster skagit caster, or long liner you need a taunt line. This seemingly small thing even with short line can make a huge difference in the direction flight path and turn over of you line.

2. A SLOWWWWW lift is so crucial to the casts overall out come, that I cant put enough stress on this one. Even when I am out casting and something just is not happening the way I want. Like a funny looking loop or a the end of the line or leader dose not want to consistently turn over. Now this will work for any setup, not just a single spey. I mean it next time you are out do a snap-t with a slow lift into a soft setup and watch how much more consistent you anchors land.

3. Lastly for this blog do your set up as clean and smooth as possible. The saying that stands out in my mind is go slow and when you think your going slow go slower. This also mean smooth no jerky or sudden movements. just controlled deliberate motion. All these thing add up to the less work and better casting technique you use, the less work and better cast you get.

I hope these thing are helping somebody, that would make me feel good. Check back soon as more casting tips, a John Day fishing report and more.... Enjoy

Well it has been fun!!!

2010-11-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well my time here in Italy is quickly coming to an end. Time always seems to go way to fast, and with all the great food and wine it goes even faster. It is funny the thing that they will let you take pictures of. If it something famous or beautiful there always seem to be a sign or person tell you no to pictures, that was kinda weird. If you come I hope you like cafe, or espresso or any other coffee drink you can think of because it is everywhere. The only people that I saw fishing were at the beach and they had their own style for sure. Here are some of the pictures I took on the trip hope you like them.... I took quite a few photos of door knockers lions and faces mainly. I took about 1200 pictures sorry I cant put them all on here.

Nice stream in the mountains of Tuscany. There just has to be some fish in there.

The Arno river, flowing right through Pisa.

The faces are always so hard!!!

The knocker are everywhere but some are just better than others

I did not know lion were so popular.

I saw this in Florance, it made me laugh.

Food like this is everywhere.

This one was huge.

Classic Tuscan sun set, does not get any better.

Could this be the devil himself.

This guy had his own way to fish and was taking care of biz.

The leaning tower and the child statue in the fore ground. This place is freaking awsome.

The End of my Deschutes season.

2010-10-27T10:47:00.000-07:00

Well here we are at the end of another Deschutes steelhead season. All the victories as well as some defeats. Guiding friend and making new ones. This year was no exception to the test of a true steelheader with fewer fish increased crowds, we still managed to get a few. Here are a few photos that I loved this year.
I thank all of you guys for making my year as full and complete as any guide could want. Now I am on my way to Italy for a real vacation I will return,(maybe). When I come back keep in mind the up coming winter steelhead season on the Sandy river. If you are interested in a trip this up coming season email me and we can start to put it together. Or you can call me at 541-591-3936. Again thanks to all of you, chow.

Father and son, the best form of bonding

what a wild beauty, great job

First westcoast steelhead

Could not guide a nicer guy

Fishing with a great friend

In the end we let go, to fish again what a great year

Travis Johnson

Sometimes when you least expect it.

2010-10-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

Well I know that steelhead can come to the fly at interesting times. This beauty above came while giving a casting demo after both sports had fished through. I did not know that the fish was even on the end of my line because I was stripping out the line to stat the demo, and as I lifted she took off line a bat out of hell straight to the backing. She did more cartwheels that a floor tumbling exercise. What could be better. Now when I say that I get one by chance now and again you can see it is true. Tight lines !!!

All wildlife seems happy.

2010-10-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

In the past week fishing has been tough but the fall brings out all kinds of animals. Here are a few photos of the wild life that the Deschutes has been kind enough to show us in the past week. Enjoy. I will also hint at the fact that I will be going to the Dean river next year during prime time, August 5-12. I am looking for 3 more hard core anglers. Keep an eye out for my next post on the detail of the trip. If you already interested just email me.

If you look close there is a cat in there.

What a pig, biggest fish of the year.

Look at that RAM

Could the conditions be better.

Floating line fall chinook, fish of a life time.

Things a good Steelhead guide cant stand!!

2010-10-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

Well as the season presses on so does my complete fuse and not to say that I rage a people, I am just saying there is only so many times I can say and try to explain some aspects of the swung fly steelhead fishing. I am now going to break down a list of the don'ts.

1. Start short! If it only takes you 3 casts to get your head length out the rod tip you don't fish you short line effectively. I know you going to say I have never caught one on a short cast. Thats because you don't even fish your short cast, you just start blazing line.

2. Don't add line while the fly is swinging. I can tell you what I have seen and I have never seen a steelhead take the fly while is was coming back into his face. The best most productive way to bring a steelhead to a swung fly is to make the fly swing in a nice concentric arc as slow as you can control with out moving the fly.

3. Don't step and add line at the same time. This one just about puts me over the edge. If you are going to take the time to fish a run do it right. If you want to fish with 10 to 15 or even 20 foot wholes in your grid be my guest I would fish behind you any day. Be prefect in your steps and if you need more line do it from the same station you made your last cast, when the desired length has been reached the start your down stream migration again

4. Mend as few times as possible through out the swing and point you rod at the end of the fly line. I could talk mending until I was blue in the face. The more correct your casting angle the less mends you make. If you mend slowly and point the rod tip down the fly line and not just flip mend bringing your rod to the same place you started your cast thus causing a bow in the line that send any honest steelheader in to a state of pissed you cant even comprehend. If it is windy and I know wind on the Deschutes just wait for the line to get where you might want it to start fishing then put the correct mend in the line just one if you can help it.

5. Last but not least, FISH THE FLY ALL THE WAY INTO THE BANK. I think you get the point on thin one.

Nice fish, the lady does it right!

I had to rant about something, Starting the 3rd month of steelhead season these things hang heavy on ones mind. I was not pointing any of you out but if you heard me say these thing more than 6 times in one day I might be talking about you. As a guide I only want you to become a better fisherman so thats why I am writing these things. Also if you fish clean you might hold a fish like the one above.

Hatchery Steelhead

2010-09-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

a wild steelhead in hand nothing comprares

Well I have had this subject on my mind for a long time, and I am going to say a few word about hatchery Steelhead. The opinions that are about to be elaborated on are my own I am not trying to persuade or damn anyone for there own opinions, I just need to speak and this blog is sometimes my soap box.

Lets start out with the view as presented by the Native Fish Society, and some of the other conservation organizations. The Idea of conservation is hard to put next to the lets play god mentality of some of these guys ( whom I speak of I will keep name less). Kill every hatchery originated fish that comes to your line in an attempt to cleanse the river of undesirables, sound like what happen to a group of people around the 1940's. The next best part of the propaganda is that they attempt to convince you that by killing these fish that you are now a foot soldier in the war against hatchery supplementation. Now I am all for better fishery, and more wild fish. I also believe that each one you or for that matter anyone of us kills you are just reaffirming the hatchery programs to produce more of these fish because that is what we the resource users are telling them with our harvest cards. It is just the simple concept of supply and demand, hatcheries are a multi million dollar businesses nothing more.

Now I have done some Ideology bashing lets talk about good conservation and great science in the world steelhead. The newly added weirs on the east side Deschutes river tribs. Have been nothing short of amazing in the amount of good, real, accurate data on the river drainage. It show us things about the river we before had only speculated at. The weirs gave us light as to what spawning grounds yielded the best returns and where now we can effectively focus our money and efforts. And you know what 3 cheers for Buckhollow the highest wild fish producer on the lower Deschutes rivers.

In conclusion I would like to say in the end, the choice is yours. The law gives you every right to kill. The fact of the matter is when you and your next hatchery fish meet, and you think about the fact that this guy made the same epic journey as all the other fish and survived all the same strife. Be it you kill for the table or you think you have been called to a higher power, or you release because you believe in the sport the choice is yours... Tight Lines

Alexander Grant vibration rod

2010-09-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

putting the heat to him

I recently bought a 14' Grant greenheart rod. I must say the first thing that I noticed is the rods weight, much lighter than a cane rod of the same length. The grip was much smaller and easy to handle. The rod also had more power than almost any of the graphite rod of its length. Plus the rod has a TON of Steelhead juju. Hooked 2 fish in the first 10 min. of casting. Here is a photo for proof.

first fish never bad for a new rod

The rods are rare but you can find then now and then, I highly advise that if you get a chance to cast one do. This rod has taught me more about rod actions and power application. the line I have been using on it was a 60' Carron jetstream.

So, you want to be a better caster.

2010-09-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

I have had the, "how can I become a better caster" question a lot this season already. First lets talk about what makes a great caster.

A great spey caster does not need to be able to cast 200'. A great caster has full control of his line and rod, and is able to place his anchor correctly every time.

Practicing casting can lead to a more enjoyable time on the water as well. We all say that you don't have to be a great caster to catch Steelhead, and for the most part this is true. I will also say that the bester caster will make more effective fishing casts in a day. Good caster can control the angle of their casts to match the flow of the river cutting down time between casts, he or she will also mend less and have the ability to cast farther if needed. A great caster will also be in the bushes less, regardless of the style of line he fishes.

Go slower I have to tell myself this one all the time. Spey casting has nothing to do with power, it is all about great casting control and timing of power application.

Keep your anchor in front of you. If the majority of your spey line is anchoring behind or to far off to one side then this is not good, because the anchor is out of place it takes more energy to make the cast or the cast fails because the amount of power applied was not enough to overcome the poor anchor. While an anchor that is placed in front of the caster and just slightly to the anchor side of center is already faced toward the direction of forward cast, and due to the forward motion of the rod will be more easily picked up in the forward stroke.

If you are already a good caster or you are just bored with the casting style you are using, then use a longer line, try learning a new cast, learn to fish with your weak hand up. Keep yourself growing in the sport. None of us will ever learn it all but we can all get better and become better casters.

I posted a new video of some casting. I wish I had a better video recorder but this is what I have. Look at the body movements and the slow controlled cast. I had a slight head wind and this cast goes about 165 feet.

If Steelhead were supermodels, then this would be Heidi Klum.

2010-09-04T14:46:00.000-07:00

It could be one of the best photos I have taken this year, and one of the best looking and hard fighting fish. I had to show somebody.

My two favorite things

2010-08-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

Well I gave away my weakness. Watching my girl tail a fish for me, how happy can a guy get. so here is the picture for you, enjoy. If you want a good laugh check out the moldy chum blog with the chick spanking the fish. I thought it was funny...

One of the best parts of a great day of summer steelhead fishing...

2010-08-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite and sometimes much needed things on the river this time of year is a nap. A good nap always makes you feel better in the afternoon, and it gives you the feeling of a fresh pull on the steelhead slot machine. I just think that it seems to fit its way into the steelhead way of life.
I will have to thank Steve Egge good friend and client on a recent camp trip for taking these great napping photos.....

Comfy I think

He is out

Thanks sleepers

What makes a GREAT Steelhead camp!

2010-08-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

I just thought that I might put out a few photos of thing that make a great Steelhead camp.

Great camp water

Early morning Steelhead to take the edge off

A nice midday break

A good camp story
( if you enlarge this pic you will see why it is still a story)

Good social hour

healthy meals

More fish, after all it is Steelhead camp

One last fish, on the way out to keep your mind on next year

"Poppy" is one cool dude

2010-08-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

I recently had the chance to fish with the Clearwater river spey casting icon "Poppy" from the Red shed fly shop. He was more than just interesting. Poppy kept me on my toes with great stories and his overall passion for spey casting but most of all for the fish themselves. I hope that in the near future I can get over to his gathering on the Clearwater, I am sure it will be fun.
He was accompanied by fellow long liner and student of the great writings of Alexander Grant, Ken Campbell. Ken fished his 17 foot 7/8 Clan, with classic blue charms and stoat tails. All that I can say about Ken is he gets it. The quest, the fish, the casting, the zen of it all if you will he gets it.
Enjoy the photo of the man "Poppy" and his new found friend Descchutes river steelhead.

A required read for any Steelhead fly fisherman

2010-08-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

The book Dry Line Steelhead by Bill McMillan could easily be the bible for any Steelhead fly fisherman. The tactics and subjects in the book will answer many of the everyday questions one often ponders while swung fly fishing. The well charted amount of data that pertains to the conditions that might effect ones choice in methodology, is the flecks of inspirational gold the modern swung fly fisherman need to know. Not only is this a great read but a resource that one may use to reflect one for years to come. Sometimes good copies are hard to find but they are out there. Search Amazon.com for Dry Line steelhead

Fishing with your Dad

2010-08-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

Sometime the fishing is good. Sometimes the fishing is bad. Now and then it's fun to fish with your Dad. Last week I had a chance to fish with my father for a day. The day started great and just got better each of us finding a reason to smile. The photo above is my father with a fresh July wild Deschutes river steelhead.

Deschutes water temps

2010-07-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

Well I have had just about as much as I can take on the subject of water temps. I have been fishing the Deschutes for steelhead since I was 16. I have worked full time for the Hazel clan for the past 6. I will now go into what I know about the water in the lower river in July.

My facts,

1. The Deschutes is a broad flat river that flows through a desert that commonly gets over 100 degrees in the months of july and august. The 112 mile of the lower river flows north and the canyon is in direct sun for the majority of any sunny day. The days in question are also some of the longest of the year, giving more hours of UV penetration a day.

2. My records show a higher morning water temp. by about 2 to 4 degrees. My records also show that the after noon temps match to a tee the past 6 years. Meaning the temperatures in the afternoon have been the same always between 67 to 70. The highest lower river temp that I have recorded was 72 degrees July 7 th. 2008.

Nobody said shit that year, why do you think that is????

3. Earlier in the month we received a file of historic river temperature data from Tom Larimer. I had a chance while working in the fly shop over the span of 2 days to read this info. The data indicates that the rivers high afternoon temperature have been more or less the same since 1955, this years temps are no different than normal.

The data also indicated that the river never goes above 64 degrees until the confluence of the white river. The White river flows into the Deschutes river on a hot water year at 80 to 81 degrees.

4. No matter what PGE does at the damn. They cannot control the water temps at the mouth. the same study showed that under any water temps at the damns release the water in the lower river would be effected by less than .5 degrees. Not a big change now is it.

The photos that I posted above are from the past 3 days. All I know for sure about steelhead is the man or women that fishes the most, the cleanest, and the fastest holds the most fish. If you would like the name of the data that I speak of call the Deschutes Angler fly shop (541-395-0995) and we can give you all the info you need on the matter.

Jamie Strikes Chrome!!!!

2010-07-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

This morning I was able to get my better half out of bed for a day on the water. What a beautiful day it was. The morning air was crisp, we were the first boat on the water. Which made the float to our first piece of water a very relaxing one.

Jamie was super excited to try out one of her new PRO TUBES. The color combo of yellow and blue may sound interesting to some but for this early season hatchery buck, he could not let the fly pass. The fish took the fly with about as much speed and tenacity as any summer steelhead that I have seen. I went from looking at her reel to watching the backing go through the guides, in what seemed like a hundredth of a second. As with fighting most buck steelhead there was a lot of tug of war style fighting after the initial good long run. This was then followed by a small but impressive series of jumps.

We were finally able to put the finishing touches on him, so that we could get a quick photo. The fishing has still been slow, I would think that by the end of the month fishing will be more productive. Everyone seems just a bit over excited by the number of fish and water temps., this that and the other thing. We all have to remember that when you steelhead fish nothing is a given, especially in July. Enjoy the photo I know I will.

200' cast

2010-07-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

I had Jamie out the other night and thought some of you guys might like to see a big cast with a big rod. The line is one of Nextcast new CHAMP 18.

Goes pretty good.

Enjoy....

Sorry about the wait!!!!

2010-07-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

I must first apologies about the time between posts. Guiding trout has been busy and my other PC was burn up in a power surge produced by my electric company in April. So the fight with them goes on.

With only a couple of week until things are a bout to get hot and heavy, I remain calm. We all want to rush out there and get that first one out of the way. The fact of the matter is right now you could fish over 1000 fish in a day, and if those fish aren't happy good luck. My advise on the matter is watch the weather when things are predicted to cool off then start to think heavy on the summer steelhead.

I can tell you from many early season days on the water, right now it is TOUGH...

Lastly there will not be such a lag on my part between the post this year hopefully ever, again I am sorry.

The past couple weeks

2010-04-25T08:08:00.001-07:00

First time for everyone

2010-03-10T21:03:00.000-08:00

The weather is just out of control. In the past few days we have seen everything from sun to snow, with rain and hail in between. Pile that on the fact most of the rivers in the northwest need some water. You could say things have been tough.

This week I fished with Jim Ansite from California, he was a great sport to have out on the river. His energy was high as was his interest in learning anything and everything about the Sandy river and Steelhead fishing. Due to both our hard efforts we found fish each day.We did not rush down the river instead we chose our water carefully and fished it well, sometimes twice.

This weeks trips have been great. Here is a great photo of Jim's first Steelhead. Enjoy

The Sandy is still putting out some fish

2010-03-08T14:52:00.000-08:00

I must first apologize for the delay in the blog I should have posted last week. I am Sorry. On a better note we did manage to hook a few fish last week. Water is low but had a nice steelhead green to it. I also saw the first hatchery fish of the season. I have another full week of guiding coming up.

The tips we used light maybe 130 to 140 grains sink rate of about a type 6. The flies were very drab dark brown and orange and the other a olive and orange. The season is far from over if you Have never been down call the shop and set a date. With some hard work, some shitty weather, and a dash of luck we should be able to find a fish. The picture above is good client and just a great sport Mark Freidman, seems happy!!!

Dress warm this week it might even snow, at least maybe rain either is fine with me.

Does it feel like winter Steelheading?

2010-02-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Boy oh boy what a strange weather year. The past week and a half the only time I feel it might be winter is in the morning. I feel like I should pack sunscreen for my sports not an extra jacket.The conditions on the home water have been tough but there are fish. One must just be confident and never in question the method, enjoy the time as best and fish as well as you can the fish will come.

Speaking of that, there is a new strom system on its way for the nexted week. I will be out for almost the entire week . Expect a fresh blog soon. enjoy the morning fishing picture, at least you know it is COLD.

The water is low but there are still fish around

2010-02-11T10:22:00.000-08:00

The water on the Sandy is low and clear but that does not mean that their are not fish that are interested in flies. What happen is you must change you tactics a bit and fish a bit slower and harder. Personally when I must fish low water for winter fish the first thing I change is fly size and color. The fish pictured above was taken on unweighted tube that was white, grey, and blue. The length and mass of the fly also change. You and I both know that fish see everything that enters their world. With that in mind, and for instance a trout in a riffle can see a size 99 midge you know that the steehead in your run can see your fly. When the water is clear I switch and run flies in the 2.5 to 2.75 inch range. For go your bright patterns in the overall picture dull more natural patterns will outproduce them.

Book your trips now, take in mind the weather. If you see a big multi-day Storm coming give the shop a call and book trip, the number is (541)395-0995. Sorry about the picture the fish was wild and I felt bad enough packing it up to the boat for a photo.

Casting photos

2010-02-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

I thought you guys might want to see some great casting photos that Jamie took of me. If you look at both the amount of extension that my body gives in both the back and forward strokes. The number 1 thing to get a great long cast or any cast for that matter is a slow and controlled lift. These are the first still photos of my casting that I have ever laid eyes on. I did get a video of some casting last fall from Steve Egge of Puyallup, WA. so it is kinda interesting to look at.
The rod is an 18 foot Bruce and Walker Norway Speycaster. The line is a Carron 105 competition line and the best distance of the day.... along ways. Enjoy the picture and I hope you learn something from them, I know i did. I know the line is hard to see. If you double click on the picture you can view the full size picture and see better detail.

Checking out some new water

2010-02-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Just thought someone might like to see what your guides do with their weekends. Checked out some new water with Andrew and Evan. We had a blasted and caught some fish, here are some photos of the trip...

Let Nature Have Her Way...

2010-01-25T17:25:00.000-08:00

In the months of December, January, and February, the wonderful mother nature lets her feeling show. And in the event of an " El nino" year she seems to let her eyes water and the rain comes down. On these day a Steelhead angler can only defend himself with an unlimited supply of rain jackets and as much warm food as he or she can pack. My good friend and steeheading great John Hazel once said to me," the coldest days on the river are 38 and raining". I can't argue with that statement one bit.

I just seem to notice how quickly most anglers of the winter fold after a couple of days in the wet raining conditions. Combined that with tough fishing conditions, and what do you get? The hobbies of some angler are great but the passions of a few draw the future of the sport.

When we look at a steelhead and the journey he must make, and what he has lived through just to be here in your stream. The hard ships of surviving the ocean life. The migrations to and from the stream of their birth, putting them one moment closer to some fate unknown to the fish himself. These animal lives set in motions by a deep seeded instinct. This instinct so deep no matter how we try to crush it, damn it, filter it, the instinct remains to keep them animals alive and breed a new generation.

That kind of determination is to be admired and I believe followed by example. So in some small fraction what you must give to be able to call yourself an angler of these fishes, the time, the money, bad weather, rain, snow, sleet, wind. When you have given all the things you must to become and angler, then you will be open to learn and rewards will come.

Winter steelhead are harder to predict then a good economic recovery. That's just what make me love them more. When you think you have figured the secret out call me, until then I will be as patience and diligent as ever and maybe I help you gain the rewards.

Big fly theory

2010-01-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

Their are so my ideas in the subject of fly selection for the pastime of chasing steelhead. And I am going to say right now that I don't have all the answers I just go fishing a lot. So the theories I am about to present are strictly observation. I have run these ideas by other steelhead fishermen in my circle of fishing friends. The overall consensus is the same regardless of the color or make of the fly.

The idea is simple, the larger the fly you fish may not catch as many fish. The large fly is a way to filter the non aggressive fish from the equation. The addiction we all share is the grab, the take, or pull. Fishing larger flies, and I mean larger anywhere from 5 to 10 inches, is a sure fire way to provoke the most electric takes you can possibly extract from swung fly steelhead tactics.

I tested the fly size theory in depth for about 8 solid months. Now and then when I really need the rip the rod from your hands kinda take I will fish intruders in about the 8 " range. The size of the fish did not seen to change I once caught a 22' long Deschutes summer steelhead in late November on a 10" long blood red tandem tube style fly.

I will leave you now with this thought, when the rivers treat you good or maybe you need something to inspire in a slow season give the large fly a try, rod lost or breakage not my fault but have some fun and fish clean with confidence.

A great phrase for the true WINTER steelheader

2010-01-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

When I get stuck somewhere or sometimes and can't escape. I often read something on the subject that helps my mind keep it peace. The simple mention of winter steelhead to some people make them instantly cold, to others it gives goose bumps of another kind. When in pursuit of a not only the most worthy but seemingly elusive opponent. I often think of the following passage to keep myself in check.

"When the first real rains of winter roil the streams in the coast country the steelhead, out at sea, hear their own rivers calling. And they have to come in. You may depend on it. They have to swim above the gravel again and under the cedars and firs. That is the law as it was appointed for steelheads. So we fisherman, if may style myself by a name so honorably ancient, are almost excited about a real steelhead rain as the steelhead are. And we have to go too."

Ben Hur Lampman. A leaf from french eddy.

enjoy.

Even the little ones have their place

2010-01-17T18:23:00.000-08:00

Today I was out on the river with everyone else it seemed. The rising river and hostile weather could not keep me off the river. Since all the fish I had laid hands on this year seemed on the large size. It came as a real reality check when in the same piece of water that I caught a potential 20 pounder, I caught the smallest winter steelhead I have ever landed.

I am not a size guy any way, when it comes to steelhead. So with this in mind I suggest reading and rereading the diversity blog( in the December archives).

The fish was everything anybody could ask out of a steelhead. She jumped 10 or 12 times, pulled about as much line as any 5 lb. steelhead could. All and all a wonderful day spent in the best water I could fish. Just a heads up I have landed 7 of the last 8 fish still have the same fly on.... Take it for what it is.

The river rewards the diligent

2010-01-10T19:55:00.000-08:00

I cant never say it to many times. I guide hundereds of people a year for trout and steelhead. Each one always asking how to improve their time on the water. I am always ready to help in any way I can, the thing is most of these people are just rusty or have stepped out of the sport for a few years. The only way to fix this is to go fishing. The ansewer to most of the problems people have on the river is to go fishing more.
I always say the rivers only reward the diligent. look at all the iconic steelhead figuers, the John Hazels, Ed Wards, Brian Sivleys, or Dec Hogans. These people would not have become the anglers or guides that they are by not going fishing.
Steelhead fishing is alot about casting practice anyway, especially in the winter. So get out there take a trip with your favorite guide, or just make the time to get out on your favorite piece of water.

The Sandy is ready for you.

2010-01-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

Wanted to let those who are interested in fishing the Sandy with me this year know, I am ready and so are the winter steelhead. Here is one of the two fish I hooked yesterday, enjoy.
While looking at the photo put yourself there and .... Do you feel that the electricity that builds from the overwhelming situation, your confused, excited, and nervous all at the same time. The emotions alternating turns. Then the fish glides in toward the landing area (never quite the best place to land a fish like this). Once in hand that's when the shit eating grin takes over, and rightfully so now you have earned one.

Flash or no Flash, that's the question

2010-01-04T21:08:00.000-08:00

Now for those who know me, or have been out on guide trips. You know that I usually follow a more traditional approach with my fly selection. With an open mind I looked at some of the rules I like to follow in my ever going quest for the elusive winter steelhead.

The rule that I turn to when times may be tough is fly size having a direct reflection in comparison to water temperature. Without giving away to many trade secrets, the warmer the water the smaller the fly. Having that in mind, in the winter with far cooler water conditions we use bigger flies.

I would now like to offer another idea or dogmatic theory. The same concept could be applied to water turbidity, simply the more turbid the water the more flash can be applied. Now steelhead theory is always being test for both pros and their cons. Another problem in validating something like this is that some folks are just a bit shied away by these very garish offerings, some won't even look at them as flies but more like a plug that a gear fisherman might use.

How ever you want to take this bit of info is always up to you. With running the risk of sounding a bit brash with these kinds of things, i just want to add that with these ideas i have taken as many fish as days on water in four different rivers. Fished with the same fly in all scenarios. Food for thought have some fun with it.

First Look at the River

2009-12-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

I would just like to report on the status of the Sandy river. After just coming off the water i would like to say that the river was in great shape. The flow was a bit high but what can you do that's what brings in the fish. All the runs that I had a chance to fish brought the fly acrossed in the most artful of manners.

The minute that I waded into the cold glacial water and the pressure of the flow gathered against my knee, I was instantly reminded that I was winter steelhead fishing. The day had that sometimes slight but ever present rain. With a temperature that was ever constant all day. As I stood making every cast count, watching and waiting with every swing on the ready. Never questioning my sink tips depth, never forsaking the offering I had placed at the terminal end of my line. I just went fishing...

And it was fun. The day yielded no fish but that's just a matter of time.

They say that there is no justice in Steelhead fishing, I say that if you get to stand in some of the most beautiful water on the planet and cast with even the mutter of a chance at a Steelhead that in it self justifies all. When it come down to the math of the fishing, the river only rewards the diligent. So get ready, book your trips now and prepared for anything who knows who will hold the 20 lb fish this year.

Deschutes river steelhead fishing...

2009-12-18T12:30:00.000-08:00

Well just thought that i would give a few words of encouragement about fishing. the Deschutes river has been fishing very well at least the three days i have been out we have hooked numerous fish everyday. Some of the fish are a bit tired but there are still some smoking hot bright fish, just ask my brother pictured above. Sink tips type 6 will do, flies in the 2.5 to 3 inch size will do. There were no colors out performing the rest, Just keep the damned thing in the river OK. So during the holidays when you get that day to yourself come on out, stop in the shop and fish because there are still a couple of weeks of good Deschutes fishing left.

Enthusiast, Fisherman, and Anglers

2009-12-18T09:34:00.000-08:00

There is a new wave of fishing that has started to take place and some of the trends mixed in with all the different walks of life multiplied by an expanding growth ratio, and you see where I am going with this. All the thing I just covered equal more and more people fishing for steelhead. Even with all these new characters there are three main groups of people that you spot on the river.
I have take the time to closely look at all three people you might encounter on the river in a day. We will start with the Enthusiast. His age does not have to be defined or the gear he fishes. What will give the enthusiast away is the glow of excitement on his face, he or she also has an ear that can catch a good fishing conversation for well over a mile. The enthusiast loves fly fishing, he is early in his fishing career that he has no passion for any particular species but instead is ready to try and fish for anything. At this point the enthusiast will find any information on the mere subject of fly fishing great and he will make any experience a learning one. What this fly fisherman lacks is confidence he or shes lacks of time on the water which does not give them a good background of knowledge. Now this is where this person can make the jump to the next stage or if not careful they can stumble down a path that may even lead to a longer journey to the next stage or the frustration can kill their freshly budding excitement pushing the enthusiast away all together.

The next person that we will be identifying via this essay is the Fisherman. This group of people is the largest, but it has to be. A fisherman has defined that he is more than a enthusiast. He or she has taken the time to now have built up a hunger for the fish that he finds worthy of the chase. The love that the fisherman has fed and nurtured has started to define what he does on and off the river. Now his time spent on the river is never bad or held in disappointment. Now he or she is able to try new approaches and has the now knowledge filled back ground to be able to know when and where to make adjustments in the game. Their alarm clock set a bit earlier and evenings filled with fly tying or a book on the fish that they love. The fisherman now knows where in the world the best fishing for his highest pursuits are located, maybe he has even planed a trip to go or even been multiple times. The fisherman's abilities can be at the top levels, his casts beautiful, top notch gear, and might even have that uncanny second sense if you will to find fish and fish able water. With all that the fisherman has he still can better himself in ways to be more involved in the sport that has now hopefully brought he or she so much joy. The fisherman's at some point comes to the crossroad to make the next jump, but this jump means much more than the last one he may have made so seamlessly. This next jump is where most people cant cross, the commitment needed on the other side is usually outweighed by other things that life brings to their tables...

Now we have reached the pinnacle of the list. The man or women that has done the things need to be at the top, The Angler. The angler at first might not stand out in appearance. As their gear is looked over it may seen dulled and not anything really special, but then again it has been part of who the angler defines himself to be. The anglers age can vary greatly, the amount of money that an angler has can only really be noticed in the rig he or she drives to the river. What make the angler an angler is passion. The excitement that grew into love is now passion. The last step made from fisherman to angler can be seen on and off the river. An angler has separated themselves by making changes in he or she life to not conform to the normal flow of grid lock. The passion shared by anglers has caused huge events that have led the angler to live a life based on the things they can do to keep themselves on the river and the fish alive. The angler has a day to day relationship with the rivers and fish they love, a bond that binds to their very soul. A day spent with one of these individuals can never be overlooked. The knowledge of the river going well beyond the water. These people become guides, writers, and almost all are part of the great ideal of conservation. The anglers life as become as much a part of river or a fish as the seasons that bring and change them. So the next time you are out and identify one of these special folk, listen to what they have to say but also admire in even a small way that what they are doing even effects the future of your fishing.

Diversity

2009-12-10T11:52:00.001-08:00

FFFFFish on!!!! Screamed my client from the top of a great piece of steelhead water. I watched as his rod buck with every twist of the fish and as I made my way up to his location I gave confident words of encouragement as the shooting head sizzled out into the green powerful flow of the Deschutes river for the second time. Now as we stood together slowly guiding the perfect catch toward my hands, we saw the fish for the first time. A fine fish perfect form tip to tail, robust green, many dark spots to contrast just a hint of a pastel pink from the tail to the gill plate, Heavy for her length of only 21 inches.
Just a small one… a wimper of disappointment in the mans voice. Almost at a loss for words with my heart breaking for the simple fact that this man had no idea what he had just accomplished. Fought good didn’t she, I said. Yeah hit my backing on the first run, he replied. What more could you ask for?
Well I read that the average size for this river was 5 to 8 pounds. It is, I shot back. That fish was maybe a bit over 4 pounds as I calmed myself. Are you a gambling man I asked? A bit he said. Your odds of catching one that size are about as good as getting a 10 pound fish aren’t they. Hesitantly he said, well I guess so. Not in the mood to go into the proper mind set of a true steelhead angler. I simply patted him on the back and said keep your fly in the water and the rivers you fish will teach you what you need to know.
The fact of the matter is with trout guys its inches and steelhead guys it is pounds. In the end what does it really mean. Not a damn thing, that’s right not a damn thing. For those of us who fish the size is the last thing on our minds. I mean are we trying to compare fish like we refer to a women breasts. I hope not, I hope those of us who fish we see something more than that.
When we look at the health of a stream, there are keys to know how healthy the ecology of a stream is. Water temps, dissolved oxygen, insect species and habitat, all those aside genetic diversity is what relates most here. Genetic diversity is simply the size and age range of fish in a streams ecosystem. A healthy stream has a wide range of fish where there are equal numbers of members in each size and age category.
All that this comes down to is if every where you fished the fish where all the same general size shape and color. We will also say you caught them on basicly the same fly. The only things different in the equation would be the back ground and the take. In the world that I just drew for you things seem kinda boring, but in this world their would be no I caught a big one or I got a little one, their would only be the fact that you fished and you fished the best water to the best of your ability. That in it self would be a fine reward for a day on the water.
Now I now going to lie about getting a bit excited when I catch a big one, but I wear my smile the same for the small guys too, and some day I just smile for a day well spent casting.
"Big or small, shit, your lucky the steelhead ate your fucking fly at all. Quote John Hazel."

You make the rules

2009-12-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

Tying flies, the most artistic and original way for steelhead angler to separate him self on and off the stream. The world of tying materials is growing so fast it is hard to keep up with, matched with the growth of the sport of steelhead fly fishing the combination has know limits of creation. A fly shop with a great selection of tying supplies are not everywhere but thats the beauty of the internet huh.

What I would like the readers of this post to get out of this blog is to except that with your flies their are no limits. The world is full of different muses, a womens shirt you saw at breakfast, a christmas decoration on the tree at a relatives house, or my favorite the colors of the sky during an early fall evening. Add these muses in with the long list of new styles from tubes to inturders the look of a fly can be the shape of ones imagination. Then the work starts like a painter with his brush. Flash or no? Natural or man made fibers?? Solid or stinger hook??? Then the color combos. I will be leaving these to you but some of my new favs are yellow and blue, blue and orange, and yellow and pink. I have caught fish on some and not others but thats fishing and no matter how bad or awsome the upcomming season might be I will not let that tell me what colors or flies to fish. As an angler the act of going fishing is above all. With hook filled vises I leave you, Travis.

On the brink of a new season

2009-12-07T13:43:00.000-08:00

Here I sit facing my computer trying to focus on writing but the window to the rear of the computer keeps getting my attention. The glare of light rerflecting off the fresh inch of snow reminds me that a new season is in the cool crisp air. This winter bringing the promise of fresh brite fish to our favorite winter steelhead rivers. This thought in it self keeps my fingers from the keys and my blood pumping warm. The indoor nature of the holidays lets us remember the last years great victories, brake throughs, and even good fish lost.
In the doldrums days of winter where you might be stuck with your family, or the rivers are at their extremities ( high, low, off color). When we are in these situtions are focus must turn to keep our minds in the game. Tying flies, building lines, and cutting sink tips are all good ideas. Organizing gear bags, cleaning reels and rods, changing out running lines are what we really should be doing.
I wish i could predict the up comming winter season, and tell all of you that we are going to whale on the bad boys this year. The simple fact is nobody can. The only way to achieve success in the world of swung fly steelhead fishing is to go fishing. Being selfish with ones time on the river is the only way to ensure that the sometimes redundant act of casting and stepping and casting and stepping will eventualy lead to the pinnacle of the bent throbbing rod attacted to the bright, hard bodied, crome, smooth steelhead. The scales of this fish alone on close inspection can often tell a story that speaks of the journey only a true wild specimen of wonderful oceans of the northwest can produce.
The last thing that I would like to leave you with on the first post, is be creative don't be afraid to use new flies change tips , and fish new water. Tight lines Travis Johnson