Patagonia Adventures Late Spring!

Patagonia Angling Adventures

*I can't wait to get back down there, I had a blast in December when I went down there!

More on my Flyfishaddiction site about Argentina/Chile and my trip

Greetings from Maine. Our long winter appears to be over! The tom turkeys are gobbling every morning, and the fiddleheads are beginning to poke through the leaves in search of the elusive sun. While I start getting the boat and gear ready for the annual invasion of striped bass, my outfitters in Patagonia are wrapping up another fantastic fishing season and thinking about next year. Our Chilean guides stopped fishing in mid-April, and the last day of guiding for our Argentine outfitter was May 12th.

Jim Janney and Pablo in Argentina


We totaled 92 paid angling days in Patagonia from December 2007-April 2008. Once again, our most popular itinerary continues to be the Patagonia do-it-yourself travel trip. Our 15 years of in-country experience has allowed us to filter out the deadwood and focus on the gold.

Lago Las Torres Brownie

Feedback from our clientele suggests that our native guiding partners in Puerto Varas, Chile and San Martin, Argentina are two of the finest guides in Patagonia. Both speak excellent English, and have spent a lifetime fishing the area rivers. PAA decided several years ago to partner up with the finest native guides available in our fishing areas. There continues to be a growing problem with rogue U.S. guides working without proper permits in both countries, and several were arrested, detained, and deported in the Coyhaique area this past season (leaving several clients to fend for themselves). We decided to avoid any similar problems, and nixed the trout bum crowd.

Rio Gol Gol Brown

Our most popular programs involve staying in local hosterias, dining nightly in quaint bistro's, and fishing daily with some of the best guides in Patagonia! We also represent most of the full service lodges in both countries for anglers interested in the all inclusive lodge experience. We can design a custom angling experience for just about any group.

May 9, 2008 Limay River Brown


We have been following the Chilean eruption closely. The Chaiten area is home to many full service fishing lodges, and it appears that the immediate region will be finished as a destination. Lago Yelcho, Rio Blanco, and the Futaleaufu region have been severely impacted, with much worse expected to come. The size of the effected area will depend on several factors yet to unfold. We rarely fish in the Chaiten area and expect little impact on our programs. The ash plume is drifting into the Chubut region of Argentina near the town of Esquel. Our clients visit Esquel often, and we can only hope the ash fall will flush out of the river systems between now and next season. Perusing the many photo's of the eruption makes one realize how inconsequential and powerless the human race is in relationship to Mother Nature.


Chaiten Volcano Lightning Storm

Now is the time to start planning for next year. The Patagonia fishing season opens in late November, and runs through May in several locations. Please let us design a unique and different fishing experience for your group.

All the best!

Tim Rafford

Patagonia Angling Adventures
433 Mill Road
North Yarmouth, ME, 04097
207-749-3383

Hooked on North Park..Delaney Buttes Bound!

Hooked on North Park
Area's trout havens don't get much publicity, but they offer a strong population of big fish
By Charlie Meyers The Denver Post

More Great Info on Delaney, Stillwater Fishing and Tips Here

WALDEN — Colorado's stillwater trout fishermen may be forgiven their current affliction of tunnel vision — just so they don't let it hang on too long.
This current infatuation with the reservoirs of South Park is easily understood. First came last summer's blockbuster reopening of Antero, followed by a winter drama of mortality that removed most of the large trout amid a blizzard of newsprint.
Attention shifted to nearby Spinney Mountain Reservoir, where a highly successful opening branded it the hot new place to be until a fresh stocking of Antero takes hold, perhaps in autumn.

Then came an even louder hullabaloo over zebra mussels and the various contortions aimed at preventing the spread of these aquatic hitchhikers: the daily inspection at Spinney, Elevenmile and other impoundments involving water providers; the continuing ban on motorized boating at Antero and Williams Fork; a general pain-in-the-posterior mood wafting over the whole business.

Lost in the publicity shuffle are the best lakes hardly anyone is paying attention to. The several trout havens of North Park — the three Delaney Butte lakes, Lake John and several lesser waters — aren't even close to a secret. It's just that folks from the Denver area sometimes get their sights twisted, forgetting old favorites that actually have gotten better with time.
While nothing ever can equal the raw eruption of big-fish catching that occurred last summer at Antero, the North Park lakes are every bit a match for Spinney and just about any other place on the Colorado map. Besides, you'll encounter no mussel cramps, no entry fees and ample free camping.

A boost in the North Park fishing can be traced to regulation changes, new in 2007, designed to keep more of the larger trout in the water at the Delaney lakes, where fly-and-lure restrictions already apply.

Rainbow and cutthroat trout between 18 and 22 inches must be returned to the water, along with browns between 14 and 20.
The result is a strong population of big fish in all three, trout that line up to eat when the dinner bell chimes the annual cycle of insects. This abundance — midges in May, damselflies in June, calibaetis from late June through August and scuds year-round — causes trout to sprout an astonishing 1 inch each month during prime growing season.
Specific angling strategies begin taking shape at ice-out, when larger cutts and 'bows oriented toward spawning prowl the shoreline within easy reach of every angler. This pattern became disrupted this spring when ice refused to leave; open water didn't come until mid-May, the latest date in memory and a month later than in 2007.

The result has been an erratic beginning that will gain purchase when warmer weather prompts an explosion of midges and, soon after, damsels. Fly-fishermen often find the best early result with a large chironomid pattern, the so-called "bomber" midge pattern.
For best result, suspend this midge just above bottom beneath an indicator. Anglers who prefer an active retrieve should try scuds, damsels or the ever-popular Wooly Bugger.
Late ice-out has kept lures in play longer than usual. On Sunday, a woman cranking

A South Delaney male rainbow in its finest spawning garb. To boost size, rainbows at the lake that are between 18 and 22 inches must be returned to the water. (Charlie Meyers, The Denver Post)a Kast-master appeared to catch more trout than anyone at the south butte lake.
Anglers who prefer fishing with bait gravitate to Lake John, an old favorite where a cook's broth of rainbows, Snake River cutts and cutt-bows still grow to trophy size.
The lone bit of bad news is that Cowdrey Lake, more shallow than the rest, appears to have suffered an extensive winter die-off.

North Park lineup
For the prime lakes of North Park, where you go determines what you get. Biologist Kurt Davies, right, plants fish with an eye toward maximum growth and a varied angler experience.
Lake John: Three separate strains of rainbow trout, Snake River cutthroat trout, some cuttbows. Davies laments that John, oldest North Park lake in its second half-century, now suffers from a preponderant biomass of suckers.
North Delaney Butte: The state's best population of trophy brown trout holds a 5-1 edge over equally large rainbows.
South Delaney Butte: "Snake River cutthroat grow really quickly," Davies said of an angler favorite that shares the lake with rainbow trout.
East Delaney Butte: A dominant rainbow
Chime in With Charlie
Post outdoors editor Charlie Meyers posts entries on this blog devoted to hunting and fishing. Visit it here.population shares the lake with

Sport Fishing May Feature...Louisiana Trout

Sport Fishing May Feature...Louisiana Trout
Any cast might produce the next state-record speck on a rejuvenated Lake Pontchartrain...Read more here

From Our Forums...
Reader Photos

A reader sent us these great shots of offshore action in Bermuda. See this photo and more in our photo galleries!

Fishing Reports
Baja, Mexico Fishing Report Once again the billfish were very easy to find this week, all you had to do was get out on the water...... Read More


Sport Fishing Boat Profile...The Cabo 38 Convertible
Cabo still represents a benchmark, but now you get more for your money...Read More
Channel of the Month ...
SFTV Gear Guide
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May Online Photo Contest
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News
>>Falls overboard can be deadly: Five tips that will help get you back in the boat >>Former President Bush lands big tarpon in Keys>>Anglers cite access and water quality as greatest problems facing fishing

High Snowpack, Hot Temps Wash Out Many Western Rivers

High Snowpack, Hot Temps Wash Out Many Western Rivers

More on FlyFish Addiciton site also

Arkansas isn't the only state that has struggled with too much water this spring. Places like Washington, Oregon and California have seen unusual winter precipitation turn into a torrent of runoff as temperatures rise. But one look at NOAA's Western Water Supply forecasts will give you a sense of perspective. Except for portions of southern Colorado and Oregon, no place is getting hit as hard as western Arkansas.

Still, high waters in Yosemite led Washington Post writer Angus Phillips to spend his days waterfall-watching rather than fly fishing. That in turn "exposed" some of the dangers of hiking in an overcrowded park: "Halfway up Willow Creek, bushwhacking through the scrub oak and pine, we rounded a bend to find a hugely fat, tattooed man stretched out on a rock, stark naked and sunning himself. The women recoiled in mock horror."
By Marshall Cutchin at

Great Map of the West and areas with snowpack levels listed

UFC Fight Weekend!

My Bud Frank "The Pain" Trigg, former UFC Champ

For those of you ineterested in the fastest growing sport...this is the place! Yes I am a UFC addict and for many of the people I know that frequent this site, I'm not alone!

Take a look at this weekends Matchup it will definitely be a good one to watch:

BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk

Sherk still needs to prove himself, not impressed by ground & Pound BJ in 2

Lyoto Machida vs. Tito Ortiz

Close fight, but Tito will slam Lyoto a few times and finish him

Keith Jardine vs. Wanderlei Silva

Keith still a good fighter but Silva too much for him

Goran Reljic vs. Wilson Gouveia

Ivan Salaverry vs. Rousimar Palhares

Dong-Hyun Kim vs. Jason Tan

Rameau Sokoudjou vs. Kazuhiro Nakamura

Christian Wellisch vs. Shane Carwin A

ntonio Mendez vs. Thiago Silva

Jon Koppenhaver vs. Yoshiyuki Yoshida

Terry Etim vs. Rich Clementi

Date Time:
May-24-2008 7pm PT / 10pm ET
Event Type:
PPV Live
Location:
MGM Grand Garden Arena, Nevada

Description:
The fight game can get very personal and the war of words between UFC Lightweight Champion "THE PRODIGY" BJ PENN and former champ SEAN "THE MUSCLE SHARK" SHERK has taken personal to a whole new level. The talking stops and the real competition begins as these two men step into the Octagon to determine the undisputed king of the 155-lb. division.
Plus, the controversial "HUNTINGTON BEACH BAD BOY" TITO ORTIZ faces undefeated Karate master LYOTO "THE DRAGON" MACHIDA

More on the Match ups

http://www.ufc.com/index.cfm?fa=EventDetail.FightCard&eid=1105

Not ready to let go of Winter!

Two men (maybe Packer Fans!?!?) are out ice fishing at their favorite fishing hole, just fishing quietly and drinking beer. Almost silently, so as not to scare the fish, Larry says, "I think I'm going to divorce my wife - she hasn't spoken to me in over 2 months." Dave continues slowly sipping his beer, then thoughtfully says, "You'd better think it over - women like that are hard to find."

Stocking to fix Antero fish trouble!

Stocking to fix Antero fish trouble!

By The Denver Post
Article Last Updated:

Not so good, not all bad. That's the long-awaited overview on fish survival at Antero Reservoir, where severe winter conditions caused the death of large numbers of trout.

A Colorado Division of Wildlife netting survey revealed just 53 percent of the number of trout counted in April 2007. Fish captured this week generally were smaller than a year ago, mostly 8 to 10 inches with a scattering of large specimens. Splake, cutthroat-rainbow hybrids and Snake River cutthroat survived far better than the large rainbows that caused so much angler excitement last summer.

"We lost most of the larger 18- to 24-inch rainbows," biologist Jeff Spohn lamented.
Spohn emphasized that the numerical reduction reflects a variety of factors beyond winter kill: natural mortality, both summer and winter angler harvest and hooking mortality.
The biologist already has planted 36,000 subcatchable rainbow trout and 100,000 fingerling brown trout.

Spohn plans to stock additional catchable rainbows when supplies are available and predicts a return to good fishing by autumn.

Top Fly Fishing Tips~

Top Fly Fishing Tips!

Click Here for more Info

Trust in the Loop! -- Orvis Fly Fishing

Take More Turns! -- Orvis Fly Fishing

Lift Long Lines from the Water with Ease! -- Orvis Fly Fishing

Use The Force! (Surface Tension) -- Orvis

Cross Fast Currents Safely By Wading Downstream -- Orvis

See What You Are Looking At! -- Orvis

Lubricate Your Fly Fishing Knots! -- Orvis

Better Fly Casts Into The Wind! -- Orvis

Cast Nymph & Indicator Rigs or Sink Tip Fly Lines With Ease! -- Orvis

10 o’clock to 2 o’clock? - NO! Watch the Loops -- Orvis

Always Wear A Wading Belt! -- Orvis

Don’t Rock ‘N Roll While You’re Casting! -- Orvis

Get A Grip! How to Hold Your Fly Rod -- Orvis

Fish Your Backcast -- Orvis

Safe Wading? Move like a Karate/Fencing Student -- Orvis

More Fly Casting In The Wind -- Orvis

Keep Your Fly Casting Practice Sessions Short -- Orvis

Do You See What Trout See? -- Orvis

Best Way To Use A Wading Staff -- Orvis

Where Do I Stop The Fly Rod On The Back Cast -- Orvis

I Can’t See What I’m Doing -- Orvis

Be Safe When Wading Aggressively -- Orvis

Don’t Practice Fly Casting While Yo
u’re Fly Fishing -- Orvis

Feel The Force When Your Fly Rod Is Loaded -- Orvis

Practice Sidearm Casting To Improve Your Fly Fishing -- Orvis

Always Cast To A Target -- Orvis

Walk, Don’t Run, to the River Side -- Orvis

Paste Floatants - How much is too much? -- Orvis

Tying Flies To Your Tippet -- Orvis

For Better Subtlety, Use Aerial Mends -- Orvis

Recent Fishing News!

Midcurrent News ·
more on Flyfishaddiction also
Go here for more Midcurrent Info

Fly Fishing Video: John Gierach in His Study·
Montana&aposs Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project·
Tarpon: The Hillary Clinton Fish·
Eightmile Watershed Gets Federal Protection·Stillborns: "The Saddest Story of All"·
California Bans Salmon Fishing on Central Valley Rivers·
Swiss Ban Catch-and-Release·
Gary Loomis Announces Retirement from G. Loomis

Costa Del Mar Hosts Teva Fly Fishing Competition!

Costa Del Mar Hosts Teva Fly Fishing Competition!

Sunglass maker Costa Del Mar will host the Fly Fishing Competition at the Teva Mountain Games, which take place from June 5 - 8 in Vail, Colorado this year. The competition itself takes place on June 9 and 10 and starts with a qualifying round on Gore Creek for 50 registered anglers. The finals will consist of a timed float trip on the Eagle River with two competitors per boat. Anglers will only be able to use one pattern in one size for their fly, but will be allowed six of the same pattern.

For more information and the full press release, read the extended entry.
TEVA MOUNTAIN GAMES CALLS FOR TOP FLY ANGLERS TO TEST SKILLS IN COSTA DEL™ MAR FLY FISHING COMPETITION

VAIL, CO - April 28, 2008 - The Teva Mountain Games, the largest outdoor adventure sports festival in the world, announced the open registration for the Costa Del Mar™ Fly Fishing competition to take place Saturday, June 7 through Sunday, June 8. Both professional and amateur anglers are invited to compete head-to-head in various fly fishing events, including a combination distance and accuracy challenge designed to test the best of the best.
The competition is open to the first 50 fly anglers to register. The qualifying rounds on Saturday will include fly distance and accuracy events, with Sunday's finals testing fly fishing skill and acumen. The semi-qualifiers will narrow the field to 20, with the top eight competitors moving into the final round on Sunday.

During the finals, anglers will only be able to use one pattern in one size for their fly, but will be allowed six of the same pattern. The angler with the most total points, based on fish count and size, will win the grand prize - a cash purse of $2,250. Prizes will also be awarded for second and third place finish, as well as for the angler who lands and releases the largest fish.
The entry fee is $25 per person. To register, visit www.tevamountaingames.com.

"We are extremely excited to add Costa Del Mar's energy and authenticity to our fly fishing competition. Costa Del Mar has a long history of working with the best events and athletes and we are honored to be working with them to take this event to the next level," said Joel Heath of Untraditional Marketing, the owner and operator of the Teva Mountain Games.

Costa Del Mar Fly Fishing Competition
Saturday, Jun. 9 - 9 a.m.
Fly Fishing Qualifier Gore Creek Drive, Vail Village
Each of the 50 registered fly anglers will attempt casts at targets for accuracy and judged distance. The top 20 move on to the semi-qualifiers.
Saturday, Jun. 9 - 2 p.m.
Fly Fishing Semi-Qualifier Gore Creek, International Bridge
The semi-qualifier contesters will move to the Gore Creek Bridge and cast again for accuracy. The top eight scoring casters will move on to the Fly Fishing Finals.
Sunday, Jun. 10 - 8 a.m.
Fly Fishing Finals Eagle River from Edwards to Wolcott
The Finals will consist of a timed float trip on the Eagle River with two competitors per boat. Anglers will only be able to use one pattern in one size for their fly, but will be allowed six of the same pattern. The finalists will fish for three to four hours. The angler with the most total points, based on fish count and size, will win the grand prize - a cash purse of $2,250. Prizes will also be awarded for second and third place finish, as well as for the angler who lands and releases the largest fish.
About the Teva Mountain Games
Celebrating seven years, the Teva Mountain Games will take place from June 5 - 8 in Vail, Colorado. The environmentally friendly, motorless outdoor sporting event will host 2,500 professional and amateur outdoor athletes from all over the world. These athletes will converge upon the mountains and rivers to compete in seven sports and 21 disciplines for over $100,000 in prize money. This year's disciplines include kayaking, rafting, mountain biking, road cycling, World Cup and amateur climbing, paragliding, fly-fishing, trail running, diving dogs and multi-sport racing. An estimated 1.4 million people will tune into the Teva Mountain Games on its national television and on-line broadcast.
Since its inception, the Teva Mountain Games have become the premier destination for athletic, adventurous, and environmentally conscious individuals. The 2008 Teva Mountain Games' Sponsors include, Teva, SoBe, Outside Magazine, Pabst Blue Ribbon, GNC, Bear Naked, Powersox, Lärabar, the Town of Vail, Costa Del Mar, Cocona, Urban Climber, Trail Runner, Climbing Magazine, Southwest Fly Fishing Magazine and Canoe and Kayak Magazine.
Teva Mountain Games is owned and operated by Untraditional Marketing, inc, the leader in event and partnership activation for the world's great adventure brands. Untraditional Marketing (UM) is headquartered out of Vail, Colorado.
About Costa Del Mar™
As the leading manufacturer of premium polarized performance sunglasses, Costa Del Mar offers superior lens technology, unparalleled fit and durability, and a lifetime warranty on all of its products. Still handcrafted today in Florida, Costa Del Mar creates the highest quality, best performing sunglasses for outdoor enthusiasts.
Honoring its heritage on the water, Costa Del Mar supports and sponsors a number of marine conservation initiatives and educational programs. The company was founded on protecting the marine environment worldwide and educating others to understand the importance of conservation. Costa Del Mar also sponsors a number of epic outdoor adventures around the world, encouraging others to see what's out there.
For more information, contact 1-800-447-3700 or visit the company's Web site at www.costadelmar.com, or check out Costa Del Mar's original adventure programming at Costa Channel C, www.costachannelc.com

Bighorn River is Fishing Well!

More also on Flyfishaddiction


From Flyfishing the Bighorn,

Every time I write one these river reports, I think Spring is finally here. However, the weather has mostly remained colder and wet. Which is good weather for the baetis hatch and it has been excellent. The water remains very cold. Midges continue to hatch throughout the day. So all in all the dry fly fishing has been good. Nymphing has been generally good with some great days and some okay days. The weather has been so erratic that we have had many days where you experience all four seasons. Flies that we are using for nymphing are black midge pupas, brown midge pupa, size 18-20, red midge larvae, size 16, sow bugs, size 18, pink scuds, size 16-18, baetis nymph size 18 and some San Juan worms. Dries, single midge adult size 20-24, and baetis adult in various patterns size 18.


SALE ITEMS

Black denim w/black suede brim BIGHORN RIVER GUIDES LOGO HATS $10.00

Long-sleeve, hooded, zippered fleece jacket, most sizes, hunter green, black, red, gray with BIGHORN RIVER GUIDES LOGO $22.00
We can ship anywhere.

Call or email us to check availability. We have some excellent guides. Come out and fish the bighorn this season.

The perfect place to spend your IRS Rebate check.

Ellyn and Michael
http://www.flyfishingthebighorn.com/
406-666-2550



__________________________________________________________



I also ran into another guy the other day who just returned and also mentioned that the Bighorn was fishing exceptional! They were having some 40+ fish day sfishing various emerging patterns and RSII's seemed to be the go to ticket......can't wait to get back up there myself!

Saltwater Experience Newsletter!

"Tailing Bonefish" on Versus Thursday at 1pm,
Friday at 7am, Saturday at 4 am & 1pm
Join Capt Tom Rowland and Capt Rich Tudor as they venture on one of their favorite types of fishing, tailing bonefish. After they push through the skinniest of water in their Yellowfin 17 skiff and get shallower than the shallowest fish, they also pursue them in the super clear deeper water of the backcountry.
Make sure to Watch this show only on Versus Network. Check your local listings.

More on Flyfishaddiction

"Setting the Hook" on ESPN's Saltwater Sunday,
7:55 am

There are two types of hooks that most fisherman use: the circle hook and the "J" hook.
Each hook has its advantages and disadvantages, but what are they? Let Tom Rowland and Rich Tudor show you how each can improve your fishing success. Specifically, how to set the hook with each style of hook and when to choose one style over the other.
Is a circle always the best choice? Is a "J" Hook out of style?
Tune in this Sunday at 7:55 AM only on ESPN2 and check out what Tom and Rich have to say about both the circle hook and the "J" Hook.
This is one of our best shows ever!
Online Store Coming In 2 Weeks!You'll soon be able to purchase complete seasons of Saltwater Experience online.
Season 1 and Season 2 DVD sets will be released in a few weeks. Additional Saltwater Experience products will include: all new t-shirt designs, hats and visors, favorite
shows on DVD, 6 original Buff designs, Seashocks boat mats, Thumbdinger products, and more! Watch for special promotions, give-aways, and other packages.

Saltwater Experience133 Seashore DriveIslamorada, Florida 33036305-797-2238

Trout's Fly Shop Speakers and Deals!

Thursday's are BYOB!

(don't forget to bring some for us!)

Come experience Happy Hour at Trout's, the greatest thing to happened to fly fishing since breathable waders! From 4 pm - 7 pm, we've got "guide prices" on flies (see menu below), as well as FREE fishing seminars.
With 2400 stocked fly bins, over 200 New Patterns in stock, and more on the way, Trout's truly is Denver's "Fly Shop"! Hope to see you on Thursday.

WEEKLY SPECIAL
$.50 Cent Flies
Select patterns only. 6 dozen per person minimum to get discount.
This Weeks FREE Fishing Seminar

Tying Colorado Favorites
With Anthony Bartkkowski, Professional Fly Fishing Guide for The Flyfisher Guide Service and Instructor for The Flyfisher Angling University
Anthony is an incredible fly fishing guide and instructor, but he also isn't too bad at the vise! Come by and hang out with him while he ties some of his favorite fly patterns for fishing the Rocky Mountain West. Anthony's Presentation will begin at 5pm.
Upcoming Seminars
May 15, Fly Fishing Front Range Stillwater, with Jake McKittrick. Jake will be discussing strategies and tactics for fishing many of the Front Range's lakes, reservoirs and ponds.
May 22, "Flies Demystified" for Cheesman Caynon, with Matthew Burkett, Pro-Staff Angler for Winston Fly Rods and the Montana Fly Company, as well as Owner of The Flyfisher Guide Service
May 29, Fly Fishing for Bass, with Jake McKittrick. Jake, our warm water guru, will be discussing strategies and tactics for catching this All American Fish! This is a great seminar for those looking for other fishing options during this years run-off.

WWW.TROUTSFLYFISHING.COM
Trout's Fly Fishing 1303 E. 6th Ave Denver, CO 303-733-1434 http://mail01.mail.com/scripts/mail/compose.mail?compose=1&.ob=8b03affa741e1197e9ce07f2a2171be17a61739c&composeto=shop@troutsflyfishing.com&composecc=&subject=&body=

It's Pike Season Baby!!

It's that time of year...no not Trout, it's time for Pike!

More on Flyfishaddiciton Site

For those that haven't tried to tame one of these big beast get ready for some time on the water and after many hours, few thousand casts, prepare for a freight train to hit that super huge fly at the end of your 7 weight.

I've been keeping a watchful eye on some local water in the Colorado Front Range area and after more snow, than warmer weather a few lakes became alive for the 2008 season. There are a number of lakes here in Colorado that if you talk to some pro's about can point you in the right direction, keep in mind that not many fly shops even know about where to fish for these toothy critters or the tackle involved. After spending some time in Canada going after Pike it makes it so sweet to go in my own backyard to have some fun.

So far this Spring has been a good one and after a few outings I've managed to land a number of Pike in the 25-30" range and it's time to take a break from those 14" trout now when it's one of the best times of year to go after a potential 35-40" Pike.
"Northern Pike aren't glamerous, but neither are their terrestrial stalkers"

Where to go you ask?

Here's a few lakes to get you going..
11 Mile Reservoir
Lathrop Reservoir
Stagecoach Reservoir
Crawford Reservoir
Rifle Gap
Rio Blanco Lake

Spring Tips:
-Get a good thermometer, look for shalllows that are atleast 50 degrees
-Use 10-12inch strips, use a slower retrieve if the water is cooler, speed up your strip as it warms up
-Look for a weedy dark bottom in the lake
-Big forceps (10"-15" works wonder when retrieving your fly
-Using a #25lb mono set up should work fine, also if needed a shock tippet, or a steel leader
-7 weight rod or 8 weight if wind is around works great if wind is around or for a long day of casting
-Bucktails, Bunny flies are the ticket and the bigger the better. Decimeter-long trailers in varying shades of Flashabou in an icy-blue and silver work well, along with solid black, seemed to be the ticket the last few weeks here in Colorado.
-Six to a 10 foot leader should work well but I've caught them with a 5 foot leader so it doesn't have to be exact

On Rivers and reservoirs where Pike season is continuous scan for pre-spawn fish off or near steep rock breaks and below dam areas. Not long after, usually around March and April, these fish move to shallower areas to feed and later reproduce. The next is the breeding process which occurs in backwater areas off of a main channel as well as near some feeder creek if you're targeting river areas.

Have fun and one last bit of advice, DON'T STICK YOUR FINGERS IN THAT MOUTH unless you want to loose them, very sharp teeth and gills!!

Montana Report: Blackfoot/Bitterroot/Rock Creek!

Recent Report from my Buddy Martin who lives in Mssoula~

More on Flyfishaddiction

Well, I have been lucky enough to make it out a few times in the last month or so. The weather has been cool and wet with a few sunny days in between.
Yesterday was the first day I have been fishing for more than 3 or 4 hours in a single day and managed a little bit of a sun burn. Most of the days I have been fishing have been between 3 and 7pm in the evening after work or on the weekends. Many of those trips driving no more than 30 minutes from town. I have made some great memories already on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Rock Creek, and a few other secret spots around Missoula. Dennis Doran, lucky guy holding the nice rainbow, has been nice enough to show me around the area. He is also building our new house in Lolo; great guy, contractor, and fishing buddy.

http://picasaweb.google.com/MartyLech/MontanaFlyFishingPhotos

Top Fishing Sites

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Fundamentals of Fishing A useful website aimed at those starting, especially the younger members, including Fishing Terminology
About Fishing A directory of global sites covering all branches of freshwater fishing
Billfish Network Promotes conservation, tournaments and awareness for the sport
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Fishing-Boating Online Dedicated to the fishing and boating enthusiasts around the world; articles, fishing guides, fishing reports, tides and weather and more
Fish Reports From Around the World- committed to helping sport fishing enthusiasts improve and enhance each fishing trip by providing useful updates about fishing conditions and fishing methods that are working best in fishing locations around the world.
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LW's Fishing Site One of most complete list of fishing resources on the WWW. It was also the first fishing page in Sweden Strong emphasis on Scandinavian resources, but does have world coverage.
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StripersOnline We'll help you catch more fish! A complete online striped bass, saltwater and surf fishing community featuring 25 active fishing forums, technique and "how-to" articles, tides, tackle reviews and reports. Readers from US, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, Australia, Italy and Spain
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Fly Fishing and Fly Tying Ezine; history, tactics, advice, trout stream insects and much more
Fly Tying For beginners then progress to Intermediate standard!
Bass Resource Fishing Guide About Bass (biology, habitats..), featured articles, tips and tactics sound advice
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Bass Fishing USA The place to find everything for your bass fishing needs, including fishing tips, tackle, bass boats, fishing lures, rods and reels
Large Mouth Bass Online fishing resource; reports, articles, stories, links, tackle,
Pro Bass Bass fishing resource; lake reports by state, tournaments, event calendar, fishin' kids weather...., tips
Stockton Bass An open tournament circuit with no membership required. All tournaments are held at Buckley Cove (Ladds) in Stockton, California
Media Bass Tournaments Team and individual championships; Lake Sam Rayburn, Texas; map, lodgings, standings, newpaper, articles and more...
Michigan Bass Schedules, results, "Casting Kids"; Bass Federation links
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Carp America A free online carp resource for all levels of carp anglers to share information on carp methods, rigs, fishing tackle and carp bait.
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CK Walleye By walleye tournament angler Chris Kindraka. with articles and tips to improve your angling
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Fly tying terms From Fly Anglers online
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Fly Swap Download a picture and the tying materials for given flies
Fishing equipment reviews and price comparisons on Ciao.co.uk
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Fly Dressers Guild The Herts & District Branch of the Flydressers Guild - fly tying classes, demonstrations and workshops for novices to advanced fly dressers in the Hertfordshire area of England
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All About Trout Professional fly fishing guide Based in Taupo New Zealand. Specializing in trophy Brown and Rainbow Trout from small lakes to back country wilderness streams. 20 years experience in the area. Quality Tackle provided.
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Fishing In New Zealand At our luxury Fishing Lodge, for huge trout. Exotic rivers and streams in New Zealand. All-inclusive packages (accommodation, meals, fine wines, guiding). Sounds like your dream vacation?
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New Zealand Fly-fishing guide Lake Brunner, West Coast, South Island. Detailed location and river descriptions, techniques, and local historical information
fly fishing Professional Fly Fishing Guide, Paddy Clark, offers fishing trips to catch brown and rainbow trout in and around the Lake Taupo District of New Zealand. Backcountry stream and river fishing adventures are our speciality
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Central Florida Fishing guide A full time fishing guide service in the Central Florida area, offering both freshwater and saltwater fishing, and full and half day trips
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Champion Pro Guide Services Central Florida A full time professional guide service just minutes from Disney World offering trophy bass fishing and saltwater flats fishing trips.
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Deep-sea Sports Fishing With a family owned fleet in Puerto Vallarta., Mexico with Captain Bruno. 25 years of experience providing each fisherman with the very best deep-sea charter that he can
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Fishing Lake Ontario Salmon fishing, Brown Trout fishing, or Bass fishing aboard Fantasy Charters with Capt. Keck. "as documented on TV show 'Rod and Reel' and the 'New Sportsman Show' and in magazine articles including the 'Great Lakes Fisherman' "
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Fly Fishing Trips Russia On Kamchatka peninsula in the Russian Far East - 1/3 part of all world salmon resources every summer returns to this wonderful place to give life to new generations of these fish specimen. It's a real paradise for fly fishing for king salmon and sockeye, pink salmon and char, coho and chum ! And surely - the Queen of Kamchatka rivers - Rainbow Trout! The biggest in the world.
Egypt Fishing Turn-key live-aboard fishing adventures in the virgin waters of the Red Sea in southern Egypt. Very reasonably-priced trips with a lot of fishing fun and satisfaction in this virgin paradise.
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Fishing and Hunting books The most fishing and hunting related books and videos with secure on. " 48 categories of books and videos with over 1800 titles, including a great section of Dogs and Dog Training books. Examples of other categories are: casting, fly casting, fly fishing, spin fishing, ultralight fishing, bait casting, bird hunting, small game hunting, upland bird hunting, safari and adventure travel, and of course, humor"
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Carp.com A magazine covering anything to do with carp fishing
Bassin' Tips links, forum and bass fishing videos

Fly Fishing in Jackson Hole: Techniques and Tactics Part 1

Fly Fishing in Jackson Hole: Techniques and Tactics Part 1

The first half of our discussion will concentrate on the environmental factors that influence and help dictate which techniques and tactics you'll want to utilize while fly fishing in Jackson Hole. It sets the stage for next months column which will focus on specific techniques and strategies I've found useful over the years.In brief, most Jackson Hole fly fishing situations share three common characteristics:First of all, the vast majority of the time you'll be fishing for the same sub-species of trout, the Snake River Fine-spotted CutthroatSecondly, the rivers you'll be fishing are almost all freestone streamsFinally, similar environmental conditions exist throughout (i.e. climate, water temperature gradients, predators, sparse hatches, food sources, etc.)To sum it up, you've got the same type trout residing in similar habitat (freestone streams) and influenced by similar environmental conditions throughout Jackson Hole. Is it any wonder a common theme is manifest in our approach to fly fishing the region? In other words, what works on one river or stream will probably work on another as well.The TroutEach species of trout share behavioral traits which help differentiate it from other species of trout. Browns are wary, rainbows jump and Snake River cutts are mean SOB's. They are very much a product of their environment. To survive they must be aggressive and opportunistic. As you will see, this has far reaching implications for the Jackson Hole fly fisher.Another very endearing quality of the cutthroat trout is it's willingness to surface feed. Of all the species of trout, none is more likely to rise to the top of the water column for a meal than the cutthroat. When in cutthroat country you can almost always fish with dry flies if you choose. Other methods will certainly work too, and at times be even more effective, but if you are a dry fly die-hard you'll usually find enough action to keep you happy.

The HabitatFreestone streams in Jackson Hole derive their water supply (primarily) from the snowmelt of the surrounding peaks. They support less vegetation and insect life than a typical spring creek and can exhibit widely divergent personalities at different times of the year. During run-off they are high, off-color and for all practical purposes, unfishable. This annual scouring does, in large measure, prevent vegetation from taking root as well as limiting insect numbers.Later in the summer, especially in low water years, freestoners can be quite tame with a correspondingly significant reduction of trout holding lies.Incidentally, Jackson Hole has many spring creeks. However, the vast majority of them are located on private property.The EnvironmentVarious environmental conditions (including the habitat, as mentioned above) have significant influences on trout behavior:Climate: Long harsh winters and a long run-off season combine to create a relatively short growing season for the cutthroat. Consequently, cutthroat trout must be more aggressive and opportunistic in their feeding patterns than trout living in more moderate climates.

Factor in sparse Jackson Hole hatches and this becomes even more true.Water Temperature Gradients: Here we are referring to daily fluctuations in water temperatures and how quickly, or slowly, they occur. Many fishermen, including the author, believe that steep temperature gradients trigger trout feeding behavior. In other words, gradients which warm (or cool) through a greater range of temperatures (say 50˚ - 62˚ as opposed to 55˚ - 62˚) will have a greater influence on feeding behavior during the time period in which the temperature change takes place.In many parts of the country, the best fishing takes place during the cool mornings and evenings because midday temperatures get too warm. In Jackson Hole, the reverse is true. Mornings and evenings are often too cold with the best feeding activity taking place when the water warms in late morning and early afternoon. In either case, whether the water temperature is warming or cooling into the optimal feeding temperatures, the best fishing will take place during the transitional periods.

To bottom line it for the aspiring Jackson Hole fly fisher, the best fishing of the day normally occurs at midday, between late morning and late afternoon. A typical summer day will see fishing activity pick up around 10:30 or 11:00 am and begin to slow down around 4 or 5 pm. If water temperatures warm too much during this time period you will often see a lull in feeding behavior around 2:30 or 3 pm, to be followed by an increase in feeding as the river begins to cool.Predators: In New Zealand, trout have no natural predators other than man. Huge browns can be spotted holding in open, crystal clear water. Such is not the case in Jackson Hole.In Jackson Hole it seems as though everything that moves is trying to make the cutthroat it's next meal, or so it must seem to the trout. Trout predators in Jackson Hole include, but are not limited to: herons, pelicans, larger trout, mink, eagles, osprey, otters, bears and man.Needless to say, that's quite a list. Herons, pelicans and larger trout prey primarily on small trout. Mink, eagles and osprey focus on the medium size range while otters, bears and man can take on the largest trout with relative ease. If that weren't bad enough, huge lake trout in the 35 - 40 pound range have been known to attack and kill trout weighing 5 pounds or more.With such a lengthy list of active predators, it's not hard to understand why you don't see Jackson Hole cutthroats holding in open water. Snake River cutts had better hide or else! Cutthroats will use the following forms of structure to seek shelter: deeper pools, rocks, undercut banks, riffles, and downed trees.Riffles provide so-so cover at best. Abundant food and oxygen will

Jackson, WY Weather
Currently Outside-62FSunny. Mild.

The Addiction Begins Now! Welcome to The FFA Blog

Welcome to the FlyFish Addiction Blog site!

FFA has been around for sometime now, we have had many request for additional way for other fisherman to talk about their adventures, hot spots and ways they to post their big fish somewhere. Flyfishaddiction is about people like you. People who would rather fish than eat, sleep or work. Who would brave rain, snow and 100% humidity to chase that elusive fish! One thing is certain, either your boss, girlfriend or wife has had to deal with your addiction so what better place to spend your time. From trout fishing in the Rocky Mountains, Silver Salmon in Alaska, or Bonefish in the Bahamas, there is always another fish to chase.Troutdawg started this site to help others, whether it's posting your experiences about local fishing or your travels around the globe......This is the place! If you haven't been to our site...click here and welcome to FlyFish Addiction http://www.flyfishaddiction.com/

Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska Quarterly Newsletter!

Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska Quarterly E-mail Newsletter, April 2008
Greetings

More Info at Flyfishaddiction
The expanded version of the Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska (SAA) newsletter is available at the SAA Web site. The online newsletter includes updates on the Bristol Bay, Tongass National Forest, and Teshekpuk Lake campaigns, as well as action items and a schedule of upcoming SAA appearances. I encourage you to click the link above and read all the news.
This e-mail will focus on some exciting news which will benefit the fight to protect Bristol Bay.
Abel reels has stepped up its support for the SAA and the Bristol Bay campaign. Visit the Abel Web site to learn about the new limited edition "No Pebble Mine" Super 5N trout reel. Only 100 of this beautiful reel will be made, with 99 reels being sold directly by Abel or though Abel dealers. From each of the 99 reels sold by Abel or its dealers, $200 will be donated to the SAA. On top of that very generous support, Abel has donated Reel #1 of 100 to the SAA. That reel will be made available later in the year either by auction or limited-entry raffle. Stay tuned for further news. For now, rush to the Abel Web site and get your hands on one of these special reels before they’re gone.
The SAA is launching a huge online fundraising auction to benefit the Bristol Bay campaign. The auction will last for at least a few months with new items being placed up for bid every few days. Each item will be open for bid for 10 days. The auction is being hosted by eBay, so the format should be familiar to a lot of people. The process to bid and buy is easy, so get ready to raise some money to help protect Bristol Bay!
This auction would not be possible without the generosity and support of so many companies in the sporting products industry. You will find fishing rods, reels, waders, other outdoor gear, artwork, and trips to some fantastic destinations in Alaska as well as Mexico, Chile, Belize, and Canada. The Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska and the campaign to protect Bristol Bay would like to extend a very sincere thank you to all of the donors who contributed to this fundraising effort.
The minimum price for all items and trips has been set at under 75% of retail value, but the hope is that every item or trip will sell for retail value or higher. We are definitely “David” to the mining corporation’s “Goliath” in this fight. Nothing worth saving or no fight worth winning ever comes easy. Much work will be needed to prevail in this fight, and your support is critical. Here’s your opportunity to help save one of the greatest sporting destinations in the world. Bid early and often.
Without further delay, please check out the details for the first listing.
The first item up for bid is an awesome trip for two to Rainbow River Lodge in July of 2008. Rainbow River Lodge has very generously donated this trip, and they are nearly full for 2008 so this is your chance to visit a fantastic lodge in the Bristol Bay region and support the efforts to protect Bristol Bay at the same time. BID NOW!Details are as follows:
Dates are set firmly from July 12-18, 2008
Trip is for two and spots will not be sold individually
Six days of guided fly-out fishing and six nights lodging
Rates include: all five-star meals, guiding, use of all boats and motors, use of aircraft, all equipment including rods, reels, flies and leaders, flights between the lodge and Iliamna, and a seven-day non-resident fishing license
Rates do not include: tips, liquor and commercial air travel between winning bidder’s home and Iliamna
Note: Guests are required to provide their own beer, wine and liquor as Iliamna is a “dry” village. The lodge has information to assist you in purchasing and shipping your alcohol.
A full schedule and list of items on the auction will be available on the SAA Web site so you can plan your bidding. A running tally of funds raised will also be kept on the same page.
In closing, I’d like to thank all of you for your continued interest in Alaska fishing and hunting, and the efforts to protect the habitats which support some of the greatest fish and game resources in the world. Take time to read the full version of the SAA newsletter. Take action, encourage your friends to learn about Alaska, and get out and enjoy the outdoors this summer. Head north to Alaska for that “trip of a lifetime” you always talk about. Life’s short, so get out and participate!
Finally, if you’ve got any great pictures you’d like to share, I think we’re going to set up a photo gallery on the SAA Web site. Just e-mail them to mailto:scott@sportsmansalliance4ak.org?subject=Contact with a short description. It can be pictures of you fishing or hunting in Alaska, or it can be from somewhere else. One of the first to be included will be this one, sent to me last week from Brian O’Keefe … no, it’s not taken in Alaska. I guess they don’t care much for Pebble Mine in the Bahamas either!
The next newsletter update will be coming some time in July. Until then, take care, take action, and good luck on the water and in the woods!

Scott HedDirector – Sportsman’s Alliance for Alaska