Ask Dennis

(Editorials, questions and answers)

1/26/03

Dennis,

Just wanted to take a minute and thank you for taking the time to write so many of us flyflingers.

My question. I bought a spey rod last year, and can get a pretty good line out there. The rub is I am still not catching steelhead. Could I be doing something wrong?

Are your Skagit schools good for us long rod boys too, or just the single handers?

Thanks for your time, love your new web site, looks great!
Roger

Hi Roger,

Could be a lot of factors in your not catching Skagit steelhead. Focus on reading the water, and concentrating on pools where you can bring the fly in close to the steelhead. Greatest tendency I see in my clients who fish the long rods, is they want to cast as far as they can. Over casting the sinktip lines, is the number one cause for riding the fly too high in the water column, and not being able to slow it down. Try shortening your cast and controlling the fly out in front of you.

Sounds like our Skagit school is custom built for you. We are quietly seeing more and more double handed rod guys into our classes all the time. Happy to have you.

Best of fishing,
D

Hi Dennis,

I have a hopefully quick question for you. The Skykomish River has been closed for the Catch & Release in March and April for the last couple years. I noticed you have fished the Sky for many years, because I would see you out there, nearly every day. during the spring. (I work nights)

Anyway, I have noticed the vast majority of the steelhead being landed in the June opener, to be dark wild steelhead, not summer run hatchery steelhead. If there is not enough steelhead spawning in March thru May, why are there so many steelhead still in the river in June?

Sincerely,
Adam

Hi Adam,

That is a great observation. The native steelhead will enter and spawn in the spring months. Early kill has pushed the spawning population later into the spring, but you are right. I believe the wild steelhead are there. Perhaps, lack of visibility has hampered spawning ground counts in the last few years. The Sky C&R is a wonderful fishery, and it would certainly spread the fishing pressure out in all our north sound rivers, for all those who travel and fish these great waters.

Best of fishing,
D

Hi Dennis,

I was reading a post on one of the other bulletin boards this morning, and couldn't help but think of you. I have been following your fishing and now your writing for many years.

Back in the last seventies, you developed the chum salmon fishery in Hood Canal. If I am not mistaken, it was you who developed the fly called "Chum Candy," when other anglers wouldn't think of fishing for chum salmon. Now, one of the most popular fall fisheries we have.

A couple years ago I read about, your fishing for Dolly Varden. Elitists were again thumbing up their nose on why would anyone lower themselves to fishing for these salmon eating trash fish? You stuck by your flyfishing for this wild char.

I smile as I read about these very anglers, now the "experts" on flyfishing DollyVarden, excuse me, "Bull Trout."

You are a true pioneer. Thank you for your unselfish contribution to flyfishing. You deserve your credit for making our sport the better. It is no wonder your flyfishing schools and guide trips are so popular.

Tight lines,
Larry S.

Hi Larry,

Thank you for the kind words. That was very nice. Wouldn't make to much of me. Still just a small town boy from Arlington. A steelhead bum, at heart.

Best of fishing,
D

1/19/03

Dennis,

I have been out several times lately; my casting is getting better. I spent all of saturday on the river. I fished Swift Creek run at first light and not even a bump; I did see a colored up native right under the bridge when I was walking to the car. Then I fished the Sauk until dark. I hit one small dolly and that was it.
Have you written any articles on dollies? Some tips might be helpful, especially since there does not seem to be any hatchery fish this year.

By-the-way the site looks great!

Thanks,
Joe

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the letter.

We just had a great time in our Dolly/Chum school last November. We will do it again in November 2003, for sure.

I guess I write about flyfishing Dollies all the time in the fishing reports, but never to a specific article. That is a good point.

We swing flies for them while fishing steelhead, and dead drift egg patterns, when the salmon are spawning. It really is an under utilized resource. We can talk more about it in our Sauk Steelhead class, coming up in February. I will look forward to meeting you.

Glad you enjoy the site. Chris S. did all the work, I just made the suggestions.

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis

I was just wondering if you noticed a population increase in the Dolly Varden over the last 3 years?
I seem to be hooking way more than I ever did ( which is nice on a cold dreary steelheadless day in January ). I am fishing more leeches and marabou which I know has increased the likeliness of hook ups with our Char but still?

The overall size seems to up a little to this year no? Average 4-5 lbs? Have hooked a couple up around 9-10 on the Sauk and Skykomish. Is that common this year?

Bryan

Hi Bryan,

Yes, Dolly Varden is definitely on the upswing on all the North sound streams. Dollies spawn in the high mountain tributaries, and a good indicator that watersheds are trying to mend. The fact that we have had good ocean survival on both Pink and Chum salmon, help the cause also.

No doubt about the flies: Going from wet flies to streamers can go a long ways towards targeting Dollies, and sounds like your line control is on the money.

Four and five pounders are not that uncommon, but nine and ten pounders are!

How many of these wild Char are Dolly Varden and how many are Bull Trout is a legitimate concern. I don't care how good the population looks, I am tired of this attitude of "We kill them, because we can." How many times has that idea gotten us into trouble with our wild resources?

Best of fishing,
D

Hey Dennis,

A couple more questions if you get time.

What blank are you guys going to go with for your FLHS-5wts?

What do you think about 4pc. vs 2pc. rods? Besides the obvious travel issues, any preference?

Scott

Scott,

A) We are looking at the Rainshadow blanks B)Used to be 3 or 4 piece rods......can't bring them on most airlines as carry-on now so I like the 2 piece....fewer joints to fuss with

Any thoughts on these blanks: Dennis response

2-pc Sage RPL (VPS graphite III) OK, bit of a tip caster. The XP is excellent. St. Croix SCIV (legend ultra) No, too floppy in the butt Rainshadow RX-8 55 million modulus blanks in 2-pc, 3-pc, or 4-pc.

I like the 2 piece.

Best regards,

Thanks for asking

Dennis,

I need to spool up two Redington 11/12 reels with backing. This is for big dorado, medium tuna, and jacks. What do you recommend? Gelspun may be needed for capacity, do you have any recommendation on splicing in different lines?

Anything would be helpful.

Thanks.

NEXT year.....I wanna do the Baja trip in Feb.

Saul

Gelspun, is a good choice. Should give you at least 300 yds. The Albright knot is what I use. Check out Kilroys Knots http://www.killroys.com/knots/knots.htm

Next Feb?......I will be in Belize.

Best of fishing,
D

1/12/03

Hi Dennis.

Was just looking over you website to drool and daydream a bit.
Got to thinking about the Chosen River trips. I'm at the 'just thinkin' about' stage, but what opportunities might there be here? The likelihood is that I'd be a single.

Hi Bruce,

So good to hear from you.

All my Chosen River dates are filled, but I see Mike has March 10 & 11 open. We are home on March 15th to fish the north sound streams until April 30.

Appreciate you dropping by,
D

Hi Dennis,

I was thinking a nice primer before our Skagit School in February, would be a 1/2 day on your private lakes. Is this doable?

Love your web site,
Ron

Hi Ron,

You bet! We are getting requests all the time, tying the trip to the lakes with a school are a guide trip. Happy to customize a package for you.

Best of fishing,
D

Mr. Dickson,

I have been following your site for some time now, and seriously thinking about booking a steelhead trip for a buddy and I. I have a question.

There appears to be a lack of steelhead showing in the rivers, now. Do you expect more fish to show in the coming months and if so, what dates would be the best time to shoot for?
Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Ralph

Hi Ralph,

Great question. Right now we are seeing (or not seeing) the winter hatchery steelhead. The bad news is; this fish, has been over harvested, and genetically polluted for years. I never expect any great numbers of these steelhead.

However, as a biologist and a fishing guide, I have been watching for a correlation between the winter hatchery steelhead, and the later returning winter wild steelhead, and I am happy to report there is little to no correlation between these two steelhead populations at all.

I have seen many years where the winter hatchery steelhead return performed miserably, to have the wild fish come in, in great numbers.

My greatest fear, is the WDFW will use the poor hatchery steelhead return numbers as an excuse not to allow a wild steelhead spring fishery on rivers such as the Stilly or the Skykomish rivers, this year.

When is the fishing best? As history will demonstrate, the sport and commercial harvest of the early returning wild steelhead, (January & February) March is a good month to fish, and April can be even better, because the killing of these late returning steelhead, is usually over by then.

Thanks for asking,
D

1/5/03

Dennis

Are these classes suitable for beginners?

I really want to learn how to flyfish for steelhead -- we have a place on the North Fork Stilly -- but I don't know a damn thing.

I have the tackle and equipment (9 ft. 8 wt. rod with 9 wt. multi-tip line (not your Yancy though)), and I've taken a casting class, but when I'm in the water I'm flailing. My casting sucks rocks and I don't know where to put my fly even if I could get it there. I practice at the park a lot, and I'm getting better, but I could use some pro pointers. And some real-life on-the-river action.

If you think your classes are suitable I'll sign up, either the Jan. 27th Skykomish one or, if I'm too late for that one, one of the February Sauk ones.

Steve

Hi Steve,

Happy to help. Beginners? No problemo. A lot of your casting problems may be associated to your rod/line setup. January 27 still has room, so you can be golden on that one. We will have rods, and Yancy line to demo so we can help you "get it out there" although one of the things you will learn in the class is, 50% of our steelhead are caught on a 30 ft. cast or less......90% are caught on a 60 ft. cast or less.

You are right; it is placing your fly in the right water, with good line control, is what our class is all about. We will let others convince themselves "It will take two years to catch your first steelhead." Welcome to the fast lane.

Signing up for class: http://www.flyfishsteelhead.com/book.htm

Tell me how I can help,
D

Dennis,

It looks like I will be spending a week or so in Key West this coming May. I was wondering if you might have some suggestions on a guide to contact while down there to fish the flats , etc., for bonefish, tarpon, permit.......I know you were just down there and I am assuming guides have contacts with other guides???

Also, are there areas that a guy can reasonably fish on the days he does not have a guide or a boat? Is there much fishing available by rental car? I have never been to Florida so I have not much to go. I would appreciate any advice.

Christian,

Christian,

I went out on two guide trips while there. We were in a bit of a cold front so the flats fishing was marginal, and to tell you the truth, Mike and I did our most damage wading flats with channel edges on our own.....

May is a hot month in more ways than one. The Tarpon and anglers will be showing up, bones will be moving but don't count on much.....not a lot of fish, and everything is Hawaii prices.

Probably the best value, is to book a 1/2 day with Capt. Dave out of Saltwater anglers in Key West. In the same area you will do your kayak tour, (Different kind of fishing) there is some hard bottom flats down south of Geiger key. Mike and I spent a lot of time down there, and that was fun.

I may go down again in May to chase the giant tarpon......if I can work out the time. I have a client who winters in Key Largo, and the Marathon area looks promising.

Mike and I hooked 9 Tarpon (most 20 to 50 pounds) during our Key West stay. I was very impressed with the fish (and It takes quite a bit to impress me, anymore. I used to guide striped marlin out of Cabo) Next winter, looks like some of us will be heading to Belize with pontoon boats. I love sight fishing flats.....

D

Christian writes:

Also, I bought a Yancy line for my bro-in-law for Christmas. It looks like a great line and that it is put together well. I am anxious to try it out when he and I go fishing next.

I already own the NB Digger and while I didn't get as much saltwater time this summer as I hoped, I really liked it. I have never had a line that would pull a light drag when the line tightens after shooting it. I guess that means I could have cast it a LOT farther.

Thanks.
Christian

Very cool! Glad you enjoy the lines. The Oregon boys are just finding out about the Yancy and well as the FLHS. Getting some rave reviews. The digger is a speciality line, but it flat gets it down!

Best of fishing,
D

Hi Dennis,

I'm hoping you can share some of your fishing philosophies with me. I found you through the Internet and you seem pretty accessible.

I've had an innate love of fishing since I was a kid. My family wasn't into it but my neighbor buddy and I would pour over tackle magazines and I would go on trips with them. This natural love has stayed with me (I'm in my thirties now).

Problem is, I haven't done much with it, largely because I am conflicted. I tend to lean towards "keep and eat" on a barbless fly, done responsibly with full respect to fish and environment. Keeping and eating in the fly fishing world is not popular, as far as I can tell.

I have difficulty understanding catch and release because it looks to me like it is almost strictly sport. Yes, sport plays into keep and eat, but I tend to believe that if I go out and don't plan to keep, nourish myself as part of the natural food chain and be grateful for the fish, then I'm just torturing the fish for my own pleasure.

I feel like responsible "keeping and eating" provides a more natural food source, the fish has a better chance as opposed to facing a massive commercial net, and I get to enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

I am not knocking catch-and-release. Maybe I'm missing something. I have guide friends and have asked them about it, truly wanting to understand their point of view, but I can't get a straight answer and they look at me like I was a leper.

Of course, I just need to do what feels right to me. However, I sure have trouble finding resources (like guides) who endorse or respect this viewpoint and so many fishing spots are catch-and-release only.

Would you please give me your thought on this?

Thanks for your time,
Liz

Hi Liz,

Yes, There is not many wild resources where we can enjoy the animal without killing it. Catch & Release is probably as close as we come.

We as humans have found many ways to destroy the very animals we are trying to protect. Fishing certainly can be one of them.

Thank you for explaining the "Keep and eat" philosophy. I certainly think there is particular scenarios where "Keep and eat" is warranted. Much of our hatchery programs are designed for anglers to kill everything they catch.

As the mortality rate of barbless/baitless catch and release is so minimal, (something around 6% depending on the fishery) the new buzz is about cruel and unusual punishment, inflicted on fish. Your thoughts on "natural part of the food chain" appears to be quite popular in two sects: those who want to kill everything they catch, and those who just as soon none go near the water, at all.

Here's the thing:

When my Dad was a boy growing up in Wyoming, during the depression, if it came to shore, it died. They needed that fish for food to survive.

As time has evolved, we have developed many food supplies, we don't have to kill fish to survive. But there is also many more of us now. Some 25 years ago, many of the wonderful streams of Montana were almost depleted, from over fishing. In our great state of Washington, we have decimated many of our fisheries by two things, over harvesting (Kill fishing) and habitat destruction.

So maybe the answer would be to stop fishing completely for a while. Science would show you, as soon as you started fishing and killing again, your fish numbers would go right back in the toilet.

Montana has gone to Catch and Release and now angler travel from all parts of the world to participate. Bottom line: If you kill them, they will eventually be lost. If you don't kill the fish, they survive to live another day. Now this is an over generalization, but its a basic truth.

So what about Fish feeling pain?

Well, as a biologist, I can tell you, we don't know just exactly what and how much pain a fish feels, but I agree with you, I wish they didn't. Maybe someday we can develop a technology where we can exercise them, (and us) without doing so. Right now we will have to settle with the knowledge that that fish is probably not going to die.

A Scenario:
So you and I are these steelhead, swimming upstream to spawn. I bite on some guys baited hook, I fight violently but I tire and come to shore, and he kills me. I might make a meal, but I don't live to swim upstream to spawn and make babies. Our population is diminished. You on the other hand, bite a barbless lure, fight violently, tired and come to shore, where you are carefully released. You swim upstream, mate and a new generation is born.

My question to you is: Would you rather bite on a hook and die, or bite on a hook and live?

So maybe we should not fish at all: We as people really only become passionate about resources we use. Bottom Line: If we all left the stream, who is going to take the time to watch out for the fish? Not sure if we want to go there. Do you?

So what's the answer? It is all about balance. We need the voice from all sides. Hopefully when we both speak from either side of the aisle, the answer will be found in the middle. Kill the man made hatchery fish, and release the wild ones. That is what I believe.

Thank you for taking the time,
D

Hey Dennis

I have been fishing for many years and sorry to say it most of those have been with gear, but have recently been more interested of taking fish on the fly I have the some single handed fly rods but I would like to get a two handed rod for fishing some of the larger rivers. What are your thoughts on the subject.

What in your mind is the best first two handed rod you would recommend along with line reel ect. I will be using it on the Sauk, Skagit.

Ron

Hi Ron,

Great question but not a simple answer. I wrote an article called Double Handed Rods - Advantages and Disadvantages. http://www.flyfishsteelhead.com/stories/spey.htm

Some guys swear by them, others swear at them. To each their own.

We went a different direction, (which isn't unusual for Mike and I)....... Our Yancy line system allows the effortless cast of the doublehanded rod, but the sports car feel, of fight steelhead on a single hander.

Thanks for dropping by,
D

12/28/02

Dear dd,

Just read most of your articles the umteenth time. Two reels you did not mention were ross and steelfin. Both are awesome reels wet or dry. I agree about the lamsen. I just sent 2 in to get fixed, I hope. keep up the good work. It is very enjoyable reading.

mike,
othello, wa.

Hi Mike,

Thanks for your note:

Reels: I have been meaning to update that article (when I can finally get some time)

Have to be careful, anglers are as passionate about their reels as any part of their equipment.

As my son Mike and I literally live out on the steelhead waters, we see a lot of gear (but of course, not all). My comments are based upon observation of what we see every day.

Update & disclaimer: Please don't shoot the messenger....I am not paid by any reel company. I only know what I see, so if you have over 200 days each year, on the water, for the last seventeen years, guess you are more qualified than me.

Can't recommend the Redington any more. Discontinued reel.......built in obsolescence Really too bad, I like that reel.

Ross: an enigma. I will see 20 that will work as well as anything out there, and then someone will come out with one, that is a real stinker. Seen it with both the Gun. and the Caynon. A bunch of good ones......then a bad one. Weird. If you have a good one, I am happy for you, you really don't have to write and tell me about it.

Lamson: I wrote the article about the 3.0 and the 3.5 disc drags. They were the most popular, worst reels on the market. Story gets strange....but Lamson downloaded the reels and came out with two new reels, the Litespeed and and Velocity. Great reels which have held up very well.

I have heard of the Steelfin but just haven't seen them on the water. Can't comment on what I haven't seen, but I will watch for them.

Since the article, many reels have come (and gone), but some things don't change.

"There are few things in a steelheader's life as comforting as his good reel."

Best to you,
D

Dear Dennis,

My name is Ben . I am 13 years old and fish every chance I get. I still have yet to land my first steelhead and was wondering if you could give me any tips on productive flies to use for the Skykomish, and/or the Skagit and Sauk Rivers.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Ben

My name is Ben, I e-mailed you earlier asking about flies to use on the Sky and Skagit and forgot to ask, is it ok to fish for steelhead in light rain?

Thank you,
Ben

Hi Ben,

Thanks for writing. I wish there was a magic fly but simply not the case. If you can bring the fly to the steelhead close to the steelhead, and slow enough to make him strike it, he will bite at about anything (within reason) that gets in his face. Check out Steelhead Flies Fact and Fiction http://www.flyfishsteelhead.com/stories/flies.htm

A fly I like for both rivers under most water conditions is the # 2 Blue/Purple Marabou streamer. Streamsideflyshop.com has a picture of the one we use.

and Flylines Are What Catch Fish http://www.flyfishsteelhead.com/stories/flylines.htm

Steelheading in a light rain? Depends: If a weather front is moving in slowly or has settled in, the fishing can be excellent. If the light rain is accompanied but a strong wind blowing in a big weather front, it can be a very bad thing. Mostly, I like dark days, steelhead aren't so leader shy.

Thanks for asking......good luck fishing!
D

12/22/02

Dennis,

I hope you guys are getting a chance to relax and soak up the holidays a bit. I am a friend of Tim's who met you guys over at the Grande Rhonde this last October, Mike got me into my first steelhead over there, thanks a million Mike.
I am still meaning to send you guys the picture of that fish but I'm having trouble getting to a scanner.

Anyway, I have a couple questions. I was fishing the Stilly the other day and a couple of gear boys jumped in above me, and when I was leaving I spoke to them briefly and the man said there wasn't any winter fish in the river yet... So were those chrome brights I saw caught opening day of gear fishing late, late summer fish?

Question #2: Does Pillchuck Creek have a run of summer and winter fish, and if so when would be the best time to try to fish them? I know Pillchuck is somewhat of a slot fishery, so is indicator fishing the way to go?
Thanks for your time and have a happy holidays.

Sincerely,
Rob

Hi Rob,

Kudo's on your great fish. For you to get your first steelhead, and Tim to get his fish on the surface, was a double bonus. Mike was pretty stoked.
Winter brights:

Bright sexually immature fish this time of year, are generally new winter fish. Even summer hens, if killed will color up, after dead. If these guys are packing around dead bright fish, they are probably new winter fish.

Pilchuck Creek: No summer fish that I know of, WDFW used to plant winter hatchery steelhead in the Pil. but don't know about now. Yes, there are a few winter wilds but stream closes before the fish, so only the poachers get a whack at them.

Indicators and small streams? Never really tried it, but I know some trout guys who fish this stuff in some smaller tributaries in eastern Washington, who swear by it.......

I swing flies on bigger water.......but thats just me.

Merry Christmas,
D

Hi Dennis, As always, I think you are cool..

As if you don't have enough e-mail on the two handed rod issue as it is. Here is my unsolicited opinion.

I have never thought you bad mouthed two handed rods or the method, only commented on the effectiveness and or use. I have always thought you chose to use the single handed rods due to your personal choice, taste, and their effectiveness. The guy who wrote that e-mail about you bad mouthing the method is being overly sensitive. He also misunderstood your point, as I did, about the spey guys always casting over the fish. Then you come behind them and catch fish. Your point was not that the spey rods/guys are bad, just that they were focused on long casts, not on getting the fly into the proper position. Which is not the rod's fault, just the operator's fault?

I was/am interested in the technical reasons why you do what you do and what tools you use, etc. It is all subjective as you pointed out.

Jeff

Hi Jeff,

Appreciate your comments. Yes, I think arguing about this makes about as much sense as arguing whether to reel right or left handed? I mean, if you are comfortable with something.......go for it!

I like to remember this:

"Opinions are like belly buttons......everybody has one, we are just not sure what they are good for!"

Mark Twain

Merry Christmas,
D

After fishing with you I have found there are times that short casts are the ticket and the long cast isn't needed..

I thought steelhead fishing meant throwing a fly as far as I could cast but when thing didn't work all that well for me I thought about what you told me about fishing holding water...

Now I fish where the fish are if that's 30 feet then I cast there..There are times I need to crank up the 14 footer and get to where the fish are..

I guess what I'm getting at is it doesn't matter what you fish with but where you fish that will make you a better fisherman..I read what double hander said about catching 17 steelhead in a year well after doing things your way I got 33 in the month of October this year and haven't stopped catching them...

Bill

Hi Bill,

Thank you for your comments. I should share with my readers that;

You fish almost exclusively with the double hander, so you know well of what you speak.

You are also one of the fishiest anglers I know, and not many anglers can match the numbers of steelhead you bring to hand, but your point of focusing your casts where the fish are, and not simply casting as far as you can, is a point well taken.

Merry Christmas my friend,
D

11/24/02

Dennis,

You may not remember me. I am John from you Steelhead/ SearunCutthroat class. Marvelous class, by the way.......I learned a ton!

The reason I am writing is because I was reading a thread from one of the other guide sites, and they were really getting down on you about your schools. Everybody including my local flyshops (Avid Angler, Hook Line & Sinker) says you guys are great. (I have to agree.) You and Mike not only teach good fish catching techniques but stress conservation and even river manners! So why would this "guide" be so critical of your schools? Aren't other shops doing schools too?

Hi John,

Appreciate your comments.

About the schools: Mike and I have been teaching flyfishing schools for the last few years, along with our local guide trips. I will have to admit, the school popularity has amazed, even us.

Why do people come? Some of our school anglers are new to flyfishing steelhead, some have been chasing this fish for several years. They all seem to have one thing in common. Anglers want to feel they are fishing productively, even when the steelhead aren't swimming on the end of their line. They want to know they are fishing the right waters, and presenting the fly well. Some guys are looking to "expand their box." Learn new techniques, a trick flyline or patent flies. Others are hoping to meet a ,a class member, new angling buddy as passionate about catching steelhead as they are.... All their friends want to stay with trout. Some, maybe just to learn a new river, Agendas vary but yet all the same. Nobody minds a chance to get better at the sport. Hence, the school.

Why would another guide have a problem with the school?

I guess the easiest thing to do would be to ask them.......

I think it is bad policy to badmouth another guide. I have bit my tongue a few times, but I feel it hurts us all. I take solace in the fact, that the guy that does, usually doesn't even know us, let alone, taken a class. How would they know what we teach?

For some guides, I think it is just competition. We are busy, maybe they are not. Mike and I know quite a few guides. Some of the finest are gear guides. We respect them, they respect us. There you go.

Somebody else sees more anglers coming to the streams, and needs someone to blame.

The irony: The reason our schools are in such demand is the very reason, a grumbly guide doesn't like them.........Because the schools work. If they didn't, anglers would stop coming.......and this guide wouldn't worry about a newbie out-catching them on their waters!

Inclusive VS exclusive: Personally, I believe if this resource is going to be saved, it will be by anglers who are passionate about the fish, and good conservation. If this guide knew what we were really about, they would be glad we are out there teaching the good stuff. It will take the village.

Thank you for taking the time,
D

First of all I would like to say I'm a big fan of your website!!!

I have been fishing Chum in a tributary to the Skagit for a few years now. I would have loved to take your class on this subject but I am away again on yet another business trip. I have felt somewhat guilty casting to these fish because I seem to snag almost as many as I fair hook. Could you pass along a few tips/techniques that would help reduce the number of snags and still provide a reliable presentation to these beauties.

Thanks
James

Hi James,

Thanks for the question.
Here is a couple ideas
Chums and Pink salmon are both very color conscience. Varies from river to river, lighting conditions et al. Many angler are stuck on green, but I will play with the colors quite a bit. Hit the right color, and your bites will go way up.

Favorite colors would include:
Green & Black
Purple & Pink
Cerise and fire orange.

Presentation: Some days they want it worked actively and others, only dead drifting is the gig.

I fish longer leaders and fluorocarbon when the light is strong, and the fishing pressure is getting to them.

Try to stay away from guys throwing hardware, particularly buzzz bombs, as this can really put them off.

Fresher the fish the better, fish the lower rivers and away from the crowds if possible. Skagit fish bite best on a rising water, and Stilly tidewater fish an incoming tide. Upper river fish on the Sky, Stilly and Sauk, will bite best on a falling water, but be sure you are in an area, where it is legal to fish.

Experiment.......its half the fun anyway.

Best of fishing,
D

11/18/02

Dennis,

It has been almost a year since my father and I went with mike on a auk river trip, but i am finally ready to get new gear. I have a few quick questions for you.

1. Does the yancy line w/tips include a floating tip?

2. What is better about the yancy system than the Rio multi-tip system?

3. With price in mind i am looking at three reels. Ross Cimmaron, Okuma Integrity large arbor, and Tioga 8, how should i decide which one to get, what do you think of these, and what can i get away with for salmon and steelhead?

4. I am trying to decide what rod to get, but price is a concern. I want a good strong 8-weight that has medium to fast action that doesn't cast like a slug, what are your suggestions, and also somebody recommended the sage discovery series 9.5 foot 8-weight as a good rod (~235$) what do you think of this rod, are there better choices?

Thanks very much for your help and I look forward to buying these items from you through streamside flyshop.
-Thomas

1. No, The Floating tip is a nice idea, but horrible in application in all the single handed multi-tip lines I have thrown. I could explain why but it has to with density and turnover. We knew a floating tip wouldn't cast well, so our Yancy line only carries and floating line with the type 3, 4, and 6 sinking heads.

2. Our heads are a little faster, but its the flat mono running line that really makes it easier to cast. The configuration allows the angler to spey cast this line......something the Rio in the single hander was not designed to do. We compare the Rio and Air flow lines with our Yancy, in all our steelhead schools.......We let anglers see for themselves.

3. These are all adequate reels, but the best reel for the job is the Tioga 10 LA. It will hold 150 yds. of 30# backing, plus the Yancy line. Works great.

4. There is several great rods out there.........but this is not one of them. We have a 10 ft. 8 wt. custom build for just a little more......specifically built for the Yancy line. We can talk about that.

Also: The G Loomis GLX, or GL3, Sage XP, Winston, Orvis, and the fast action Scott are all good sink-tip rods.

And thank you for coming by,
D

hello-

i was searching yahoo for stuff about the fish cat 9 by outcast and i came upon your page. could you tell me is this a good raft for a single person for rivers? they say it will go down class 3 rapids, is this true? how well does it go through rapids? for the price can you beat it? i'm 23 and i'm thinking about getting it for fly fishing on rivers. i weigh 234 lbs, one place told me though it does not have enough rocker in the pontoons for rapids but outcast said it perfect. please help! i just want to make sure its durable and will be able to go through some rapids (nothing huge). are the pontoons pretty durable? for the price is this a good raft i have found it for 349.95$? or should i wait a while and get one that will be around $600? what is the major diff and is it that much better?

Thank you for all your help
please email me back at

thanks
Andy

Andrew,

Fishcat is made by Outcast, where it is not the Pac 8000, it is probably the best buy on the market.

I try hard to avoid class 3 rapids. Remember, a boat is only as good as the guy rowing it. Having said that I run my boats on the rivers including the class 5 narows on the Grande Ronde (not recommended), and they are fine, stable boats. Take on some low gradient streams with few obstructions......and work your way up. Be careful.

Best of fishing,
D

10/28/02

What a great site and very helpful to a novice.... thanks. You talk ababoutfluger Medalist 1595 1/2 RC ( the price is absolutely right) as being a good steelie reel, but it is not a disc drag. Did I mis-read your advice that the drag system should not be click/paw???

Thanks again for all the helpful tips. ed

Hi Ed,

The Pfluger Medalist is a real work horse of a fly reel. True, it does not have the disc drag system of reels like the Tioga, but neither does it have a double pawl of the original Hardy series, either, It has a brake drum, much like that in your car. It is not a smooth as the better disc's but a far superior drag system than the double pawls, because it doesn't require an angler to hang onto the line or reel, to keep the run away steelhead over-running the reel. (OK for experts, but death on the novice.)

Bye the Bye. I still have a Hardy Zenith, which I dearly love. I have managed to shear the reel handles off on both spools.......

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

Go you have any suggestions for a guide to do the Riggins area Salmon River or the Lewiston Area for Steelhead the third week of November?

Don

Don,

Yes and No.

Our guide Tim is working the Washington side, Snake and the Grande Ronde rivers thru November, so I can help you out there.

Salmon River? Sorry, no.

Happy to help,
D

Hi Dennis,

I am wanting to fish the lower reaches of the Umatilla and Walla Walla right now for steelhead. The rivers have nearly non-existent flow, less than 25 cfs at this time but I will be fishing backwaters as a result of the Columbia River Dams. The water is about 4-6 feet deep and like I said has virtually no flow, almost like a lake. Typically we catch the fish with a bobber and shrimp but very much want to try the fly. I would appreciate any suggestions you might have regarding what type of line, leader, and fly to try.

If you have the time, would greatly appreciate your professional opinion.

Thank you!!
Jed

Hi Jed,

Backwater steelheading: Personally, this type of fishing doesn't appeal to me but we do run into scscenarioshat approach the type of fishing you describe.

I will use our Floating Line Head SySystem our flfluorocarboneader and small nymphs in black, brown ,and green. One approach:Greaseline the fly into the fish, and give it an ococcasionalwitch. Very patient fishing. Another approach is to pay attention to the bug hatches. Caddis are prprevalentight now. Try fishing the dry with a nymph dropper. One last apapproachIf you can get to the very top of the pool, and still cover the fish....... take a type 2 ghost tip, 10-14 fofooteader, and a small nymph, cast directly downstream, and creep your offering back up thru the fish.

First light and last, works the best.

Last: Stay away from guys throwing bait and jigs, you want rested fish.

Good luck,
D

10/23/02

Hey Dennis,

I have been flyfishing for trout for the past five years and have just recently become intrigued with steelheading.

I am at my first year at Washington State and have made two trips down to the mouth of the Grande Ronde where it connects to the Snake and seen an ever growing number of flyfishermen.

I not sure if you've fished the Ronde before, but the temp last time I was there was 58 degrees and many people were not catching any fish. From what I can gather the temperature is too high and possible the fluctuation in water coming from the dam could throw the steelheads curiosity off. Then again, I have only gone out twice without any luck.

Anyway, I was wondering if you had some tips for fishing the Grande Ronde through the fall and winter. Thank you for your time! Sincerely,
Tanner

Hi Tanner,

Just got back from the Grande Ronde. I certainly know about the jam show at the mouth of the GR. 50's are good temps for the surface fishing on the Gr .......but the morning water temps now are around 42 degrees! We fish in the upper watershed near Oregon.......more like fishing, than the circus at the mouth.

I will have a guide fishing for me thru out the winter......

Happy to talk dates,
D

I'm writing for more information on your fly lines. Specifically, I'd like more info on the Yancy Line Multi-tip Flyline system and the Floating Line Head System. First, let me describe my needs/problem and then I'd be interested in hearing your recommendation.

I have a 6-wt and 8-wt rods. For the former I have spare spools with floating and sink-tip lines; for the latter I use a commercially available multi-tip line system. Last winter I developed a rather debilitating case of tendonitis in my casting elbow while steelhead fishing the 8-wt with sink-tip line. It didn't bother me over the summer (fishing mostly with 4-wt and 6-wt floating lines for trout), but it returned as soon as I started fishing sinking lines for steelhead this fall, even though I was only using my 6-wt. The pain comes most severely from lifting the sink-tip line from the water and in the back cast motion. So, I've been looking for some sort of line system that might ease some of the effort and enable me to fish a bit more comfortably this winter. I could imagine this either with a line system on my 8-wt that was easier to cast, or with something for my 6-wt that would enable me to achieve 8-wt casting distance.

I would be most grateful to hear a bit more about these two line systems and how they might relate to my problem. Of course, I don't expect a medical diagnosis (I pretty much understand that), but would appreciate hearing whether you honestly think your lines might help alleviate my problem.

The Floating Line Head System sounds like it is appropriate for my 6-wt, but is designed for fishing with a floating line. Is it set up to use a sinking-tip for winter steelhead fishing? If not, could it be set up to handle a sinking tip without sacrificing its casting character?

It sounds like the Yancy Line Multi-tip Flyline system would be appropriate for my 8-wt and I could use the swappable tips that came with my existing line. However, it seems as though I would still have the problem of lifting the sink-tip line from the water (I may not be able to avoid this with any sink-tip system) and the savings to my elbow would come mostly from minimizing the false casting. Do you think the Yancy vs. the Yancy Light would make any difference (both are advertised to work on an 8-wt rod)?

I really look forward to hearing back from you and perhaps finding a line I can look forward to casting this winter.

Thanks in advance,
Dick

Hi Dick,

Just got back from the Grande Ronde.

I too have a severe case of tennis elbow.......although not from casting, (from pounding nails on my son's house.)

Both line systems should work for you.....for two different reasons.

Yancey: You are absolutley right. It is the lifting motion, that kills you in casting sinktips on a single handed rod.

The Yancey is designed so you can spey, without using this movement.....just like the bigger double handed rods. We also have a "modified spey" which does the same thing (but I would have to show you this one). Both casts put no strain on your shoulder or elbow.

Floating Line Head System.....is a floating line. It allows you to effortlessly cast an 8 wt. floater on a 5-6 wt. rod. The secret is in the line constuction. False casting is what wears you out, casting larger flies over distance, with smaller rods. This is a total "Load and Shoot". It is really an awesome line.

I see you are from the Seattle area. We demonstrate these lines in all our schools, but if you wanted to meet me riverside some morning before my trip that day.....I would be happy to show you the lines and the cast.

Let me know how I can help,
D

9/30/02

D,

Well you described your Mrs.. Black to me in your e-mail and I tied one up(yes I said one) I know it's dumb to tied one of anything but I have tried so many flies that don't work I didn't want a bunch of them without knowing if they work of not...Well I used it yesterday (Saturday) late in the day and got 1 Steelhead and 7 really big trout..Got back in the water at daybreak Sunday and 4 casts and steelhead on made 4-5 casts and had another one on This one bit me off and Mrs. Black was gone..

Well it was a good day until the fly was gone then the day was over couldn't find another thing they would take in my box and I haven't had any problems getting fish to bite this year until today...By the way the Satsop opens the first day of October I'll let you know whats going on as soon as I get on the water..

I know the silvers are in the river but I'm really looking for the chum with my new 14' Scott...You know me I kinda like big rods..

Bill

Bill,

Yup, Mrs.. Black was named after the famous Mrs.. Black on the Grande Ronde. What we didn't know is, as well as it works on steelhead, it is devastating for river coho. I will bet you can't tie just one, now!

Thanks for the river report. You probably know what Sigman F. says about guys who have to fish big rods. Just kidding!

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

Any nymph recommendations?

BTW: The Yancy system ROCKS! My buddy bought it for me for my bday. Used it on the Alagnak River in Alaska....caught about 50 fish a day - EASY. ;)

Thanks again!
-0 Dave

Hi Dave,

Sure, BH pheasant tails and Hare's ears.

Yes, we are happy to report, our anglers are taking both the FLHS and the Yancy to Alaska, and doing quite well.

Yancy and Mark took the FLHS to BC (without me, which I will hate them, forever) and just drilled the big summer steelhead on surface flies. Guess the word is getting out.

Happy fishing,
D

9/23/02

Dennis,

I have been trout flyfishing for 2 or 3 years now. I am very interested in taking up flyfishing for steelhead.

I am looking into a steelheading class at a flyshop, they spend (2) 2hour sessions in the shop talking about steelhead flies, runs and rivers to fish - and a third day they spend on the river with you.

This class is $125, since I have no clue on anything steelhead, would this class be worth the money and something I can really learn from. Or would a day on the river with your guide service be able to do the same thing? Also, when are your next classes...

Thanks for any info.
Ben

Hi Ben,

Are you referring to a quote taken from last week's fishing report?

"Flyfishing schools have become the most popular gig we do. Why? Because two nights at the shop, and a half day casting on the Duwamish, doesn't make you a better steelheaders. Our on-the-river schools, do."

Imagine yourself taking up golf......

You can either hang around the club house for a couple nights, and spend a few hours at the local driving range......

Or, you can show up at your favorite golf course and learn to actually play each hole. The, play each hole, is unique to our schools.

You can read about our different flyfishing schools form our home page at www.flyfishsteelhead.com. Our next school is our steelhead Searun Cutthroat Schools September 25, 27 or 28th. These classes are all filled, but it seems like we always get a last minute cancellation or two, so it never hurts to check.

October class is 9-10 on the Grande Ronde River.

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

Fished egg imitations for 2 1/2 days with only jacks. Put the cop car on at 2:00 today and 3 casts later hooked the bottom, the bottom started to head for Puget sound. Took me 10 minutes to get the Yancy flat mono running line back on the reel and another 10 to get the fish in.

Glad to see the cop car in the jaw of the fish when he came in.

May keep the old 9 weight after all.

See you Friday.

Hi Dennis,

Thinking about a float on the main fork of the Stilly next Monday, and was wondering about Blue Stilly down to Silvana Bridge. Seems like a short float, but from wading, I know of a couple pretty good SRC spots. What's the distance, time wise, on that section? Or would you recommend something higher, say from Cicero to Arlington? Or maybe lower? I've done Arlington to Blue Stilly before, and had a great time, just want to check out something different this time.

Thanks for your time and as always, your great site!

Hi Steve,

No problem......well, may be one. Downstream of the I-5 bridge is the diversion dam on the south slough side. No way to avoid this if you are floating to the Silvana tavern.

You want to scope this out before you run it..... .but lining your boat down works too. You will see where WDFW has sloted out the low water passage for salmon. No fishing to 400' below the dam.

The good news is, this section of river is seldom fished!

Best of fishing,
D

9/8/02

D:

I realize you are busy and don't have the time to hold my hand. But, what length 5 weight rod would you recommend to use. I have been fishing on the East with only bamboo rods for all too many years. All of my fly reels are set up for 5 wt line. Do you sell these rods.

I looked at Mikes website and didn't see any rods listed. Did I miss something? As I am going to be doing a lot of fishing before I meet you on the stilly, I would like to get the rod you suggest I use.

If you don't sell it just tell me what to get. I usually make the ride to Arlington almost everyday that I am there and fish the NF of the stilly at Forston's hole. I really like the action I get there with the steelies.

Thanks for the coaching.
Bob

Hi Bob,

Me and Mike Are looking into getting some custom signature rods one his site and even sell rod, reel, line packages. That is a little down the road though.

Lots of good rods.

G Loomis GLX or GL3 9'6" or 10' for a for a 5 wt or a 6.

Sage SP 9' for a 5 or a 6 wt.

Winston, Powell, Scott all make good sticks.........visit some shops........find what feels right to you.

Best of fishing,
D

Hey Dennis,

Just had a quick question(s) regarding the Upper Sky.

I have an 8 ft. Outcast pontoon boat and am an intermediate rower...would you recommend floating the upper Sky?

I've floated the lower drift from Sultan to Monroe with ease. I've heard the first corner can be a little tricky. I also remember you saying you like to float it around 4000 cfs in an earlier article.

Is there a dangerous river level (either high or low) that you would recommend staying off the river?

Any helpful hints are greatly appreciated. Read your column regularly.

Catch-n-Release always
Dave

Hi Dave,

River is pretty skinny right now....... personally, I would wait for a rain. Your's is a fine boat, and as long as you stay away from sweepers, you should be just fine.

Try to fish with the light off the water. Long light leaders and a riffle hitched # 8 low water Skunk on the FLHS is golden.

Best of fishing
D

9/3/02

Howdy Dennis,

Just trying to gather information on the Grande Ronde river. What's the fishing like from Nov-March and river flow. Of course it'll be snowing, but how bad does it get for winter fishing or does anyone fish during this time frame?

Thanks for your time and words!

John-Portland, Oregon

Hi John,

Fishing can be very good.........

Having said that, I have a client who lives on the lower Grande Ronde. He claims the weather can be so volatile that he doesn't dare venture his 4x4 upriver, when the snow flies. The terrain is pretty vertical in the canyons. I don't do the GR in the winter.

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

Question, I would like to upgrade the reel (currently have a cheapo) on my 5 wt. rod and would like to use your FLHS on it. Any suggestions on a reel that would work good with the line, hold adequate backing and yet not overpower my 5 wt.? Will you have reels available to try at the class?

Thanks,
Doug

Doug,

Flylines and Reels.

The client reels we use and endorse for our 5 wt. rods is the Tioga 8 This is a great fit for the FLHS which can purchased thru our ON-line Pro-shop at www.flyfishsteelead.com

Yup, we will also have demo's in the class.

Looking forward to it,
D

Dennis,

How are things going?
Im off today to go over to montana and fish rock creek till monday then I leave tuesday for alaska on the alagnak, I'll be pretty busy. But I'll love it. I had a chance to get up the stilly. I hooked two steelhead the way you tought me in the class. Preset was nice. The first one took off and jumped like four feet out of the water and landed on a big rock, bounced off and headed down stream as my reel was singing, went right into a log jam and broke me off. The second one was just really powerfull and got the best of me. lol. It was fun though. I'll catch up with you when I get all done. I should be back around the 14 of sept. Maybe we can hook something up.

Take it easy and good fishing.
Jason

Jason,

Totally cool.......

Glad you enjoyed the Stilly Steelhead School. Sounds like you have put it to good use.
Good luck with your adventures.
When you come back, we will swap bear stories, D

8/25/02

Dennis

Thanks for the advice earlier this summer on the tioga reel and GL-3 8wt rod. They are working out very well for me. I have landed several rainbows that are 30+ inches and more silver salmon on surface flies than i can remember.

Now here is my question to you....I will be attending school this year at Univ. of Idaho in Moscow, ID as a fisheries resources major....Do you have any reconmendations for any kind of fly-fishing in that area. I will have a truck so I don't mind driving to make weekend long trips. Are there any decent steelhead rivers that far away from the coast or will I have to drive to get to some decent steelhead fishing. Being from Alaska my opportunities where steelhead are accesable via road or my boat are very few and far between so I am looking forward to getting to invest more time into fly-fishing for steelhead. I dream of catching a wild steelhead on the fly. Also I would be interested in taking a school with you at some point or possibly a guided day of fishing that would focus more on preparing me to fly-fish steelies in many different situations. Do you have any to reconmend that would pertain more towards fishing steelhead in idaho.

Thanks,
Matt

Hi Matt,

You are in luck here, Pal.

Idaho has three great streams (and Washington, too) Jump in your truck and hear for Lewiston.......

The Snake sees a ton of fish heading up to the :
Clearwater River:- a moderately large , low gradient stream, that flows into the Snake at Lewiston. Good fishing through. Sept-Nov.
Salmon River: Remote stream accessed by boat. Wonderful fishing in the lower river in the fall, upper river in the spring.
Snake River: Great majestic pools on both sides of the river (Snake divides Washington and Idaho)
(Washington) Grande Ronde River: Read www.flyfishsteelhead.com > Stories & Articles > Grande Ronde and Mrs.. Brown.
Sure the Oct 9-10 Grande Ronde Campout is an instructional trip, dedicated to steelhead surface presentations.....highly recommended for your pursuit of these dessert steelhead.

Happy fishing, you are in great country,
D

Just wanted to say thank you for your excelent article at flyfishsteelhead.com, i just returned this eve. from a trip to WA i drifted a large portion of the lower stilly (from the lime quarry to hat slough) for cutts, it was alot of fun to read an article about somewhere that i have fished,

thanks again.

You are more than welcome. My writings are my way of giving something back.

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

I have enjoyed your site for a couple of years now and have become increasingly interested in pontoon boats. Through looking at your site and also seeing more and more of them on the rivers I fish. One thing is holding me back though. The price. I would be interested to know what you do with your old boats. Do you sell them. get rid of them or what? This is something I would like to try if it were a little more affordable. Any help or suggestions you could give me would be much appreciated.

Thanking you in advance.
Roger

Hi Roger,

Thanks for the inquiry about the boats.

Pontoon rafts have come a long ways in the past few years. I still think the Fishcat is probably one of the best values on the market. If you are under 200 lbs. the 8 footer, is fine. If you are bigger, or plan to do extended outings, the 9 footer, may be better suited. The 8' is around $350. the 9' about $450.

Yes, I have gotten miles and miles out of my boats........but you should buy new. Mine have been "rode hard, and put away, wet".

Best of fishing,
D

8/18/02

Dennis

I have been Fly-fishing for about one year now and have landed 2 steelheads and some salmon. I started out w/ a 6wt lamiglas w/ Olympic DTF line using weighted flies on long leaders and a caught one steelhead (tiny little thing)and a lot of salmon and a lot were foul hooked so I ditched the heavy flies and went for a sink tip but could never catch anything through the rest of the summer and fall.
I saved up and bought a 9wt lamiglas and a Okuma Integrity 8/9 reel (which I think many people over look) and of course I cheeped on the line and bought Olympic WF11ft Sink Tip and first day out I caught a 32” Native off a purple leech, and since then Nothing.
I know I am getting down toward the bottom because I have snagged a lot in slower seams and I use around a 6-9foot leader.
Well know that I have told you my fishing life story I would like to know if I should go get new line or just keep practicing my presentation and mending with what I have. I know it is not my flies I am very accomplished fly tier. And If I should go get line what type of line should I purchase. I have a limited income so I can not afford the nicer multi-tips yet I would like something I could build on so I fish variety of waters.
I was also wondering If there are floating tips for multi-tip lines.

Sincerely,
Jeremy

Hi Jeremy,

Thanks for the inquiry.

Your reel is OK. If the drag starts slipping, get a Tioga 9/10

The 9 wt. you describe is only OK, for casting, we use the Lam. for chum fishing, because you can be landing fish all day. Steelhead fishing, you are spending most of the day casting..... ..and you want something comfortable.

For sinktiping, we use our Yancy Multi-tip which I believe is the best single handed line system I have seen. This line will fish on your 9 wt.

Single handed multi-tips with a floating head, was a happy idea. I see these lines everyday. Flat don't work. Just yesterday, we had the angler with this line, demonstrate the cast....after doing this a few times, I had him cast our Floating Line Head System. It was no contest. The line sells itself.

This FLHS is designed for your 5 or 6 wt. rod. (Sounds like you don't have this rod yet). Building a floating line for your 9 wt. in my opinion, is a waste of time. Just not much application for it.

Summary: Yancy Line for the 9 wt. for sinktips FLHS for the 5 wt. and your floating line presentations

It is what I use......and now most of my clients, too.

You can find both at streamsideflyshop.com

Thanks for coming by,
D

Dennis

Wanted to thank you for the great class. Sorry for taking off at the end so quickly, but I had a Mariner Game to catch. Frankly, I can't think of a better way to spend my birthday then menacing steelhead on the surface during the day and going to Mariner win at night. Life is good!

I thoroughly enjoyed the "Player" you put me into on the surface. Granted I'd prefer to land that fish, just pinning it and watching it exploded on the surface was enough to keep my hands shaking for some time. Getty-up!

Finally, can you let me know which Yancy (regular or light) would fit my SAGE RPL 8 weight 10' the best and which Tioga model would be the best fit for the line suggested ( I'm retiring my Lamson 3.5 after years of ridicule).

Thanks
Kevin

Kevin,

Very much enjoyed having you in the surface steelheading class. Yeah, that was a pretty awesome fish. Rolled one in that very spot the day before.

Flylines: The Yancy will fish the RPL......works great!

Tioga 9/10 is the reel. Lamson 3.5....please.

Marineers, yup Roades flat got it done.

Best to you, my friend.
D

Dennis,

Well here is my fishing report July 29 to Aug 8th from Sekiu. Fishing was really slow for silvers till I started using the downrigger. You could catch kings ( I caught several) right at daybreak casting into the edge of the eel grass at the caves. Good fun but you have to release them. Put my fly line on the downrigger at 20 feet, using a deceiver fly and then I started catching fish.

Caught 30-40 fish over 4 or 5 mornings. Couldn't fish for a few days cause it was too rough and windy. Lost a lot of fly's and broken leaders to fish running away with gear. Used a Orvis PM10 5 wt, battenkill reel, floating line with sink tip added on with bonefish leader and pretty strong tippet. All fish except two were native silvers 7 to 14 pound range. It would be good to go back in about 2 weeks for the next rush of hatchery silvers pumping thru.

William

Bill,

Cool! Yup, For some reason only the September hook-nose are good surface fish at Seiku. Try the NB digger, you can fish this with a clauser very comfortable to 30 feet.

Best of fishing,
D

8/11/02

Dennis

Hello,

I was wondering if it would be wise to do your steelhead school first or just do the guided steelhead trip instead?

I consider myself a pretty good fly fisherman. I have the double haul down pretty good, but as far as catching steelhead on a fly I'm an amateur!

I have NEVER caught a Steelhead period!

Please let me know where I would get my moneys worth.

Would I learn as much on the guide compared to the school?

Thank you for your time!
Peter

PS, being from Tacoma when is your next school for steelhead within the next couple weeks?

Hi Peter,

Fly school or guide trip? Very popular question.

Answer: I usually follow back with a question. Do you catch steelhead now? As you mentioned that you haven't, we always recommend the school. Had you said yes, we recommend the guide trip.

Wouldn't the one on one guide trip, be better?

Well, you might think so but.......when we are out on a guide trip, we focused in on the fish, the conditions of that day. This is fine for the newbie, until the weather/water conditions change.

The school is a relaxed atmosphere where you will learn all water/lighting conditions. High water to low.You will meet other anglers, and quite often your new fishing buddy.

Does that mean that the guide trip can't be instructional? Not at all, Mike or I will always try to taylor your outing to whatever you are looking for that day.

Some guys like groups....some like the solo, we do both. Tell me how we can help,
D

Dennis,

Have been out of town for the last week so just picking this up tonight. I will get back to you about the Ninja camp openings you e-mailed me separately about.

In mean time, can you clarify what you mean about "kick the mend" when using the Yancy system? You demonstrated the FLHS in the class I took last summer and remember how you fish that line, but you didn't show us the Yancy so I'm a bit in the dark about how you fish it.

Thanks in advance.
Eric

Hi Eric,

Good point, with the floating line presentation we don't mend we angle the cast.

Sinktipping we mend.

After you have made the cast.......as soon as the line hits the water.......pinch down on the running line (so it doesn't slip through your fingers with your off rod hand), lift your elbow eye level (idea here is to get as much line off the water as possible) and rotate your wrist in an inverted "U" motion, upstream. This motion will kick the floating belly upstream behind the sinking tip, and you can simply let go of the running line, (with the Yancy Line) and your extra running line will naturally carry out into the drift. (Now I know why we demonstrate it!) Any of our sinktip schools or guide trips, we go through it.....a lot.

Best of fishing,
D

Here's a re-make of the 23rd Psalm. I had a remake that was done for golf and thought it would fit for fly fishing.

I'm not trying to offend anyone just thought it was unique. Add, delete, change the words, use it if you like, trash it if you don't! Again, I apologize if it offends you but here it is anyway.

The Guide is my shepherd, I shall not foul hook.
He maketh me to cast straight down clean rivers.
He leadeth me safely across tricky currents,
he restoreth my roll casts.
He leadeth me in the paths of accuracy for my drifts sake.
Yeah, though I cast thru the many currents in the shadow of boulders,
I will fear no drag, for his advise is with me;
His fly rod and fly line, they comfort me.
He prepareth a strategy for me in the presence of the [steelhead] trout .
He anoineth my head with confidence;
the driftboat will not tippeth over.
Surely cuts and rainbows [steelhead] shall follow me all the float trips of my life, and I will catch and release on all the rivers
- forever. Amen

Good luck!
Greg

Hi Greg,

Love your poem.....I took the liberty to revise just slightly.......hope you don't mind.

Best of fishing,
D

I'm a recreational fly fisherman in Northern California finishing up my 4 year enlistment in the United States Air Force.

Getting closer to the time of my release I often think about what I'm going to do for an occupation...and I ask myself "what is it that you love to do...what could you do that you'd wake up every morning and love the fact that you have the greatest job in the world and you loved doing it...and making a wage at the same time..." and the answer is always "to be a fly fishing guide."

To be paid a wage to inhale the wilderness, enjoy all of it's wonders and the thrill of the catching "the one" is something I can hardly fathom...so my question to you is...

"How does one get started in the Fly Fishing business???"

And where would I find more information on books or other such info on this question...

Thank you for your time Sir!!!
Randall

Randall,

Thank you for the letter. Guiding is no different from running any other small business. I work it 7 days a week, I put in 1.5 hours preparing, fixing, repairing, tying, writing, or returning messages for every hour out on the stream. My day starts at 5am and I usually stumble off to bed around 11pm. I can be out on the water, with best people in the world, day after day, and never actually wet a line........clients aren't there to watch the guide fish. You would get no benefits, no company pension plan, no paid vacations. Your overhead year in and year out will be between 40-50%. The government is convinced you are making too much money, but you can't even afford to buy a new motor....so you make do. Clients will love you and everyone else will barley tolerate you, because you are taking people to their favorite fishing holes. Some days you will feel on top of the world when she catches her first steelhead, and when the elements are not cooperating, you will feel like a prostitute. I tried desperately hard to talk my own son into any other occupation.......now he guides full time. 90% of the newbie guides drop out within 2 years, in the field.

But after all that, you still want to......go for it. I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

Best of fishing,
D

8/04/02

Dennis

How much is the class and will we be using pontoon boats?
Will we also be doing some searun cutthroat fishing in frog water?
How do we cover steelhead and cutthroat fishing in the same day?

Joe

Hi Joe,

No problem,
$150 is cost of class, 50% as deposit
Yes, we will have pontoons as well as the larger raft.

How do we teach steelhead [surface techniques] and SRC?
SRC will hold in steelhead water......steelhead just won't lay in SRC waters.
We concentrate on recognizing these "cross-over" pools, where BOTH steelhead and SRC will house. When we get into behavioral differences between the two species, we demonstrate waters and technique about that too. Wonderful class, Mike and I really enjoy these schools. Searun Cutt Tactics Surface Flies for Steelhead & Summer Steelhead N.F. Strategies are all good references for this class.

Thanks for asking,
D

Dennis,

I just wanted to let you know I had an amazing time with Mike on Saturday, July 20--especially because I caught my first steelhead, but most of all because Mike was such a great guide.
He is very knowledgeable, patient, an excellent teacher and good company. I had a good time and learned a lot that day-which were my main objectives--and would have been happy even if we had not caught that fish.
I'm still very much a novice at this sport, but know enough to realize that it is a real privilege to spend a day like that on a river with an excellent guide and to catch a fish, too. Attached is a link to the few photos we took, which I just had developed the other day.
I'm really thankful that you were able to hook me up on such short notice, and please accept my apologies for waking you up Saturday morning when I lost the directions-I'm usually not such a klutz, though as I am sure Mike told you, I also left my car keys in his truck when we put in to the water that morning. I'd like to come back one day for one of your classes, so I hope I'll be forgiven, and that I won't join the ranks of some of the more infamous clients who you've written about on your web site!

I guess I was just really excited to be fishing-I still am! But, like I said: I learned a lot that day, so it shouldn't happen again.

Thanks & Best wishes,
Jim

Jim,

Thank you so much for the lovely letter on Mike. Yes, clients really like his quiet company.

And thanks for taking the time, to say so.

Best of fishing,
D

7/28/02

Dennis

good to hear from you. Couple of questions for you:

1) I have been thinking about trying one of your shooting head systems lately because I'm just not getting the distance I think I need fishing conventional lines (especially with as high as the rivers are this summer). I have an Airflo 8 wt. multi-tip line that I don't really use because I went to floater, Type III and Type V on separate spools after taking your Stilly class last summer. I understand that I could use these tips for the Yancy system - what do you loop the tips to? Is there a section of floating line connected to the running line? If so, how long is the floating section. If not, does lack of a floating section basically make this a full sink line?

Also, how do you mend with this kind of set up, or do you fish it in such a way that you don't mend?

2) I might be interested in one of the Sky forks Ninja campouts. Please e-mail me available dates.

3) Would love to have the password for the trick stuff when it's available.

Take care.
Eric

Hi Eric,

Good to hear from you,

Yes, Many of the commercial multi-tip boys, are interested in the Yancey line because it casts easier, farther, spey casts, and less effort.
Yancy has a looped end to attach heads
Yancy has the flat mono running line annealed to the floating belly

Mending: Yes, this was a major concern of mine when we built the line but, if you will hold the flyline after the fly touches the water, lift your elbow, and kick the mend (like you should), it mends beautifully. If it didn't.....it wouldn't catch fish, and it catches fish!

Ninja camp: Sure, I will send dates....and also the password.

Good talking to you,
D

7/24/02

Dennis

I have been living on a fixed income for a while so funds for classes and long distant travel are very limited, but I want to catch steelies with dry fly's so bad that I would make some funds available to take and attend one of your instructional steelhead fishing schools this July or August. The only thing preventing me from picking a date is my present obligations tied to managing a bunch of cattle, irrigating pastures, fencing and moving cattle. However, if you have a cancellation and could give me 3-4 days notice, there is a good chance I can pre-arrange activities to cover my absence, load my truck up with gear and bedding and drive over there the day before the class starts.

I live in Ellensburg, which isn't too far away, but I am not a spring chicken and don't have the recuperative powers I used to have, so need some lead time to prepare, travel, etc.

Re: fly fishing for steelies classes( even though they are filled),Would it be worth our time for you to send me the dates of when your classes are scheduled, so I could tentatively be prepared in case you do have an opening and might get a call from you?

I have a 3 wt I use for trout up to 25"s, and a 6 wt that I have been using for my steelhead fishing. I don't have your lines on them , but I do have some Rio Grand on one spool and some Teeny T-200 on another.
Have waders and some other gear as well.

I am very interested in learning your methods to catch steelhead on dry flies, so any information you can provide me on any and all of the above inquiries would be appreciated.

Sincerely,
Dimitri

Dimitri,

Thank you for the inquiry,

Yes, the Aug 14th has room, if you can arrange for that.

The 3 wt. is a little small but the 6 wt. is golden with the right line system for it. Streamside flyshop.com > flylines > Floating Line Head System (FLHS) is a great line for surface presentations for SRC and summer steelhead. You can purchase on-line if you prefer.

T-200 could be manageable if you cut the head back to 15'. We prefer the Yancy multi-tip and 8 wt. rods bottom searching.

Happy to help,
D

Dear Mr. Dickson,

Hello. I am writing to get more information about your Stilly Summer Steelhead and SRC and Deer Creek Summer Steelhead schools. I would be interested in either of the Saturday sessions. I have never been fishing for steelhead period. I have been flyfishing for trout on the Snoqualmie Middle fork as well as on the Miller and Foss rivers off of the Skykomish. I have only been flyfishing a handful of times wash year for the past three years, so I am no expert caster by any means. All I have right now is a fast action 9' 5wt rod.

I am interested in getting into flyfishing for steelhead and other salmon and trout species on larger river systems and maybe in the north sound area. I live right near Picnic Point in Edmonds. I guess my question is are these two classes completely different? Being that I am a rookie to steelhead fishing and maybe an intermediate in trout fishing, would either one of these classes help me on my way to being proficient on the water? A couple of my friends are also looking into getting into steelhead flyfishing also.

I was guessing that your class probably would be a good way to 1) try out steelhead fishing before going and investing money on gear and 2) get the basics of steelhead fishing to help the learning curve. I was talking to a guy at the fly shop that I recently bought my 5wt rod and reel and he was saying that a 5wt, albeit on the lighter side, would be adequate to go after summer run steelhead. That when getting into August and Sept, an 8wt set up might be more ideal. Any thoughts on this? In fact, I have already looked into pricing this set up and these are my options.

Rods: Sage DS 8wt 9' 4pc
St. Croix Legend Ultra 8wt 9' or 9'9" 3 pc
G Loomis GL3 8wt 9' 4pc
Reels: Tioga 8
Ross Cimmaron C4 or C-5

I wanted to keep the price for the whole set up under $500, but don't mind spending more if the quality and performance of the equipment warrant the extra money.

I have been browsing through your website and have been reading the reports and the stories. I liked that one about the Dr. and his wife. You have a lot of great information.

Thank you very much for your time.
Layne

Layne,

Sorry for getting back so late, Long fishing days......

School is agreat way to get started. The Floating Line Head System is the line you want for your 5 wt. Perfect for surface presentations of SRC and wild summer steelhead. Not sure what the rational was about an 8 wt.in Aug.- Sept. You will want the 8 wt. for sinktipping during the cold water months. The Yancy multi-tip line system is good for this. You can find both lines on line at Streamsideflyshop.com plus many of our trick flies.

Rods: The good news is.......most of the rod companies make a good rod. Try to cast a few before making a purchase, see what fits you.

We will have both the FLHS and the Yancy lines with oufits to cast in our flyfishing schools.

Thanks again for the inquiry, D

Dennis,

I have been checking into a reel for my 5 weight rod that would have a decent drag. I looked into the Tioga. What would you recommend the model 6 large arbor or 8 large arbor. Are your client reels the 6 or 8 and if they are the 6 how much backing should I put on with your FLHS. Same question if you recommend the 8 for my 5 weight FLSHS.
Dennis, I hate to sound like a pain in the butt; however, I want to make sure I get my equipment properly set up. I appreciate all the help you give me.

Thanks,
Terry

Terry,

Reels: Tioga is a great choice......you want the 8 wt. large arbor. Load your reel with 20 # dacron. The Floating Line Head System is the ticket.

No pain at all.....

Looking forward to it,
D

Dennis,

Now checking on availability for your Sept. 27 Stilly class. I'm gonna make it to one of them!

Also considering buying the Yancey light line w/the sink tips from streamsideflyshop.com. Do you have to cast it spey-style? I've got a 9'6" 8wt. and need a new multi-tip head system (my full-sinking line cost me 6 flies this morning!).

Thanks,
Keith

Keith,

No problem! Love to have you in the 9-27th class. The Yancy multi-tip is the best sinking line system I have seen but the line you really want for this surface presentation class, is the Floating Line Head System (FLHS). You Can buy either of both on Mike's website at www.streamsideflyshop.com

I will send a confirmation and itinerary as deposit comes in.

Looking forward to it,
D

7/20/02

Dennis

I am a frustrated steelhead fisherman who has floated the Skykomish with my buddies and hardly ever catch any fish. I recently converted to spey fishing, took a class with Derek Brown last year, and absolutely love spey fishing.

I would consider myself adept with a flyrod (35 years plus) but pretty uniformed on the more subtle nuances of finding and hooking steelhead.

I am curious about your Sky class as it might enlighten me and teach me more about the river I have come to love and consider my homewater...albiet a little crowded. (The Sauk is my favorite). Question: which class should I take..

I am debating between learning some new water and fishing in your homewaters of the Stilly (which I have never had the opportunity to fish) and also learning about Searun cutts, or should I do a pontoon school on the Sky and see what I can pick up.

How much of the Sky class is geared for the novice? Let me know your thoughts and availability of any slots open.

I have enjoyed your articles on the web.

Thanks for your reply.
Joe

Hi Joe,

Appreciate your inquiry. You bring up a couple great points. I take it, you are enjoying your rod, and nothing builds confidence like fishing with equipment you enjoy.

I also noticed you mentioned hardly ever catching any steelhead......which is probably why you came to me for instruction. Perfectly OK (most of my in-state new clientele are anglers, frustrated with steelhead .......that's why our schools are so popular)

You wanted to know about the level of expertise in the class....I suspect this is because you can already cast. Common question.

Our schools are designed to advance anglers from all levels of expertise but.. ...hopefully, without sounding offensive, if steelhead Fishing was nothing more than Casting long distances.......we would all have double handed rods, and you and I wouldn't even be having this conversation.

In my steelhead schools, I start out telling the class, it may be easier in explaining to the class of what parameters are important in successful steelhead flyfishing, by explaining what successful steelheading is Not:

Successful Steelheading is not:

1)Dressing like a Flyshop mannequin. All the whistles and bells, all the trick gear, doesn't mean Jack to a steelhead.....
2) Casting 100' Many anglers confuse distance with coverage. We spend the whole day going over this point, but suffice it to say, it has to do with sinking the fly, as well as line control, and fishing were the steelhead actually are.
3) A magic fly
4) 12 pounds of Irish luck

The Stilly school is about SRC and summer steelhead. Personally, I would never fish the long rod for any trout.....total over kill.

The Sky School would be much better suited, because I feel the big sticks are better suited for the larger rivers, than the little North Fork, Stilly, and you would fishing over steelhead, not SRC looking for steelhead.

You are correct in your assumption about steelhead. It is reading the right waters for your fly.......it is understanding steelhead behavior under different lighting and water conditions, and how to present an attractive fly, that is separating you from your fish. Mike and I can help you do that, we get double handers taking our classes, all the time.

Drop by anytime,
D

7/14/02

Dennis

I attended your June school on the Sky.
Great day and lots of great info. You indicated your son, Mike I believe, had a site where one could buy flies. I can't find a link on your sight for purchasing tackle and I don't know his address. If you sell the famous flies you catch all these fish with let me know where, please, and I'll give you some business.
My son really wants to take your class and probably will when the summer job paychecks start coming in. ...He reads your site almost daily.

Dan T.

Hi Dan,

Sure, happy to help.

Mike's website is a work in progress. It is fully functionable.

www.streamsideflyshop.com

If your browser doesn't open the site just contact me and I will fill your order.

Glad you and your boy enjoy the site.......thanks for coming by

Best of fishing,
D

Dennis,

Had a good morning on the North Fork of the Stilly. Hooked a good fish in the lower north fork on a red and orange fly that immediately broke off - still using tippet that was too light. Changed tippet and then hooked and landed a 27" dolly at the head of the McCloud drift on the Cop Car. Rolled another fish about a fourth of the way down - again on the Cop Car.

Finally, hooked and fought a native steelhead about half of the way down the drift. It spit the fly out on the first trip toward the bank - again on the Cop Car. What a morning! Unfortunately, lost the Cop Car in the tail out.
The steelhead take was picture perfect. Three little tugs at the end of the drift. Preset the hook by pulling back slightly and the drag started screaming! The Tioga did it's job.

Thanks again for the recommendation on the reel and everything that you taught us. Wish that I had another week and a fly box full of Cop Cars!

Tight lines,
Dan

Hi Dan,

Wow! That's quite a morning. Yes, in fact the entire Stilly is fishing very well. More in fact, appears all the North sound streams are fishing well as I remember in twenty years!

Cop Car......what's a Cop Car? (Just kidding) If you go to Mikes website and click onto his membership page, it will refer to C.C. The password isn't up yet, but you can contact me, and because you are a client, I will fill your order.

I pray the fires hasn't hurt your Colorado, any more,
D

Dennis,

Jason (the Army Guy/Steelhead Catchin Wannabe) here. I'd like to check out your school - the Stilly. Summer 2003 - ANYTIME is fine by me. Am I early enough to get in?? Its going to be the best way to learn. Please let me know.

I finally made the decision on the set up for coming up there. I'm going with a custom made 9ft 9wt Sage RPLxi ( I traded a buddy a 9ft 5wt Winston) and a Teton Tioga LA10 reel. I am guessing that is too heavy for the steelhead in summer but still have a 7wt and a 5wt that I can play with. Is this a good call on the set up? I went back to your Article on reels - then checked out the Tioga - quite the Screamin Deal!!!

Again - your website has become my Bible for fly fishin. I get to Tacoma in December. I managed to link up with a few guys (They read my 1st question to you and emailed me) they said that December and January will tire my arms with fish and they have a few spots in mind. Thanks!!!

Again, please let me know about the school - I want in. Then we can talk about a full blown guided trip. I am looking at Alaska too - Summer 2003. I have lots of Saving to do!!!

Best of Luck,
Jason

Hi Jason,

Thanks for your letter. Did you make a good deal? Hmmmm..... trading your Winston 5 wt. for the Sage & Tioga, is like trading your Porsche for a SUV. Don't get me wrong, you couple this winter rod setup with a Yancy multi-tip, and you will have an awesome winter rig, but I guess it depends on how much you enjoy the other 5 wt.

I fish my GL3 5 wt. and the Floating Line Head System, 80% of the year, but then, that is me (and I love Winston). Personally, I would keep the new winter setup......and look for a reason to upgrade your other 5 wt. back to another Winston!

Schools in 2003? You bet, but wait until after Jan. 1 to book. Appreciate you asking.

Let me know how your new rod works out.

Best of fishing,
D

Dear Dennis:

I live here in the San Francisco Bay area and have been pursuing some Steelheading here in Northern California and Southern Oregon. We have primarily employed nymphs, swinging or dead drifting with indicators. Fun indeed, but not as much fun as Surface action. I've been seeking some enthusiastic guidance for learning and pursuing Steelhead on the Surface and have heard you may hold this enthusiasm.

Understand you presently have a two day Grande Ronde River Steelhead School scheduled for early October which might be a possibility. Alternatively, it might be possible to schedule a one-on-one guided day with you later in the month. I'd be interested in exploring some discussion of the possibilities with you.

I'm scheduled to be in the Portland, Oregon, area in early August and am prompted to wonder what Steelheading prospects might be available in Washington following this weekend and whether you feel any Steelhead surface action is prospective at such time.

Would appreciate your contacting me or advising when I can most likely reach you by telephone to discuss the possibilities.

Regards,
Larry

Hi Larry,

Thank you for your inquiry.

Yes, I have a real passion for surface steelhead. Sounds like you are a man after my own heart. The Grande Ronde is an excellent choice in October. I will send you an itinerary of out campouts, so you can decide whether the campout or the guide day is a better suite. Our guide days are already filled from Oct. 21 -30, but we do have a few from Oct.1-8, which were excellent last year.

Yes, August has good possibilities, on both the North Sound streams as well as our Olympic Peninsula waters. Happy to talk about that.

Best of fishing,
D

7/6/02

Dear Sirs:

Hi Dennis

Got the Yancy sink tip and tried it out on a local trout pond. After only a few casts could shoot out 50-60 ft of line while sitting in a 10 ft pram. Really impressed with the shooting ability of that running line. Think it would work for BlueFish and Stripers?

Paul

Hi Paul,

You Bet! These shooting systems are awesome. We are finding all kinds or application......... I am working on a beach fishing line as we speak.

Caution: The Yancy system will be golden for your Stripers.......but do not over cast the BlueFish.....they will eat the line!

Best of fishing,
D

Hi Dennis, Yes, I can spell COP CAR.

I returned from Alaska last night. Due to rain and weather delays, we got in to Seattle at 2:20 a.m. We had 1,000 ft ceiling and 1 mile visibility flying out of ***** in to Kodiak in the Beaver. It was a pretty touch and go float plane ride.

Briefly, here is a quick report,

What can I say, I love my Yancy line system. It saved my arm for sure. I fished it all week and feel pretty confident with it now. I also got my left hand involved and practiced casing it almost effortlessly. It was great. I was feeling really good about it. I am embarrassed to say that it took me awhile to feel confident fishing without a split shot (as in years past) on my leader.

Mentally, I still wanted to KNOW I was down where I needed to be. The egg drifters and lure chuckers in my group that I set up were catching fish pretty consistently below me. I had to fight the urge to put a shot on when I really wanted to get down. I put on my big sink tip and mended the heck out of it when I hooked my first fish. I was so thrilled and happy you would have not believed it. The first fish was also on a COP CAR as you may have guessed! I actually landed one nice steelhead and two sockeye on the Cop Car! The reds were NOT lined either. They took it. I checked them both carefully.

I hooked and played between 12 and 15 large kings. They were all in the 18 to 25 or 30 lb range. I only brought 4 to my hands and kept one bright 22 pounder. I was using all barbless hooks and was getting a little frustrated loosing all those fish. With me chasing, they would run down stream taking all my line into my backing and more....... I was using my 8wt and plan to buy a 10 wt for next year. I need more rod for these fish. It was a blast however and did not really mind losing fish.

Bears: Wow. This was the first trip that we had LOTS of bears. We saw 7 bears and had to shoot poppers and shot over the heads of several to keep them away. A large sow with two second year cubs kept getting really close to me/us. This was the first time in my life I have had to shoot over the head of a bear to scare it away. I will tell you all about it, but, there were lots of bears. One came into camp at night and chewed up a bunch of gear until we shot a flare at it. My friend Ronny shot a bear in his living room this spring. Amazing story, his house and kitchen are still a total mess with blood, etc. You should see it, it is unbelievable. The bear broke in his back door and came right in. Of course, he has about 500 reds drying on his fish racks in the back yard. Go figure.

I was the only fly fisherman in our group, the others threw pixies. They landed many steelhead and kings. I'll show you all the photos and tell you about it.

See you soon,
Jeff

Jeff,

Wow.....and I thought I had bear stories!

Incidentally, Cop Car was originally intended as a tidewater King fly.....your experience doesn't surprise me.....except for the sockeye.....which is totally cool!

Glad the Yancy line worked well. Yup, those big kings can put your equipment to the test!

Thank you for sharing your experience with me. Maybe next year we can put a gig together......bears, not withstanding,

See you at the Stilly school....say Hi to M. for me,
D

Hi Dennis

My name is Vince and I was considering trying out your school. I was wondering if it is for beginners or advanced anglers. What I would really like is something that would cover the best methods of fishing the Stilly, times o year, patterns, techniques, and where to go. Also being new to the area I would like to meet other fly fisherman to go fishing with. I fished for Atlantic Salmon since I was 18 (I'm 32 now) on the Margaree in Nova Scotia and am delighted with the likeness of the Stilly to my home water I have also fished allot for trout and striped bass and would like to know if I could still gain allot from your school.

Thank You
Vincent

Vincent,

Thank you for the inquiry.

Yours is not the first Atlantic Salmon fisherman to ask about our steelhead fishing.

Steelhead and salmon appear to different but yet quite similar in many ways. (I have caught exactly one salmon, but intend to do much more!) I think you will enjoy the school, not only for the many pools, and how we approach them, but the nuances of our steelhead technique, both surface and subsurface presentations.

Happy to help,
D

Dennis

My name is Thomas (My father and I fished the Sauk with Mike in December and got some nice fish). The reason I am writing you is to concur with your statement regarding the WDFW proposal to start a hatchery program on Grandy Creek. As you and I both know, through the years of hatchery production, it has been proven that hatcheries do not work, while they may provide a small angling opportunity, they harm wild fish. The WDFW is hearing comments from the public on the proposal in three ways. One is through their meeting at the skagit county administration building, another is through mail, and lastly through email. It is imperative that our voices be heard to prevent this from happening. I know that you have a significant mailing list of former clients and fishing friends. Because of the relative ease of emailing an opinion, I believe it would be a good idea to send out a broadcast email to all of these people urging them to do their part, and giving them a link to the email address to respond to. The email is prattcrp@dfw.wa.gov
If I had the connections to do this myself I would, but I think it would be worth your time to do this. Thanks, and good luck in the fight to save our salmonoids.

Sincerely One Concerned Angler to Another,
Thomas

Thomas,

Thanks a lot Pal,
We will do just that. Thanks for taking the time, D


Grandy creek proposal

I know many of you receive these notices, but my question is should the WSC have some type of presence or representation at this meeting? Discuss at the next BOD meeting? Advise

The Washington State Council of the FFF (WSCFFF) provides this e-mail distribution to serve FFF clubs and other interested parties. If you find these articles of interest, please forward them to your club members. In most cases the WSCFFF Board has not reviewed them and takes no stand on them. Blind c.c. forwarding is used to eliminate long lists of names. If you have a problem with attachments, adding or deleting names on this Club Contacts list, etc. please contact me at bob-bates@worldnet.att.net

NEWS RELEASE
WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT
OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, Washington
98501-1091
Internet Address: http://www.wa.gov/wdfw

June 17, 2002 Contact: Chuck Johnson, (360) 902-2653

Meeting set on scoping notice for draft EIS on Grandy Creek steelhead enhancement project OLYMPIA * The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has scheduled a public meeting July 1 to gather public input on a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for a project to provide additional steelhead fishing opportunity in the Skagit River watershed.

The meeting is part of the State Environmental Protection Act (SEPA) public review process for the proposal in which WDFW is examining options for a steelhead-rearing facility in the Grandy Creek area, including building an acclimation pond where up to about 500,000 juvenile steelhead would be placed each year to imprint on the unique characteristics of the water before being released. Grandy Creek is a tributary to the Skagit River.

When the fish return as adults a few years later, they will home in on the Grandy Creek's "scent," providing increased local fishing opportunity for recreational fishers and treaty Indian tribes.

The meeting is set for 6-9 p.m. in hearing Room C of the Skagit County administration building. WDFW staff will have aerial photographs, maps and other information available about Grandy Creek facility options. The Skagit County administration building is located at 700 South Second Street in Mount Vernon.

Those interested in reviewing the documents online can do so beginning Monday, June 17, on WDFW's SEPA web page, at http://www.wa.gov/wdfw/hab/sepa/sepa.htm , on the Internet. Comments on the project must be received by July 15, and should be sent to Cynthia Pratt, WDFW, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA., 98501-1091, or via e-mail at prattcrp@dfw.wa.gov

Sincerely,
Rich Simms

Dennis,

Jason, Spencer and myself really enjoyed the time (and lessons) at Jeff's Pond on June 26th. (Thanks for being laid back, and 'very' helpful with your instruction...could not have been a better learning experience).

Spencer has talked about nothing else. Jason is a bit taken back that his little brother out fished him. Not sure he has quite got the whole feel and vision yet, have to see what I can do about that. (Not sure he understands that fishing really can be better than girls)

You mentioned the August trips coming up, and suggested that we book in on them. Please let us know which of those trips has room for the 3 of us. I'll send a check as soon as I hear from you.

Looking forward to the learning in August, thanks for having us.
Joseph

Joseph and the boys,
So good to hear from you.
Glad you fella's enjoyed the privates lakes. Thank you for the kind words.

Happy to talk about August fishing.

Best of fishing,
D

6/23/02

Dear Sirs:

My name is Dennis Dickson. I am a fisheries biologist of some twenty years and a fishing guide for sixteen.

Allow me to object most strenuously to the Grandy Creek Steelhead proposal.

Since the steelhead management has been modeled under the Maximum Sustained Yield (MSY) for the last thirty years.......this planting of hatchery steelhead on top of wild steelhead populations, has decimated our wild populations through out our state.

As we would again increase the "projected" numbers of returning Skagit River winter hatchery steelhead, the tribal netting also would increase to take up at least 50% of this added surplus. As nets cannot differentiate between hatchery and wild steelhead.......and the hatchery population, in a normal shaped curve, means all kill fisheries would naturally continue longer into the spring.....then more of the wild steelhead would be subject to this kill fishery. The WDFW kill sport fishery, of course, cannot allow the tribes to "get ahead" in their quota, so they will be "forced" to continue kill fish even later.....meaning, more dead wild steelhead. As history as demonstrated, the tribal net fishery, would take up the bulk of the hatchery return, placing the Kill sport fishery, in the dubious potion of either allowing the tribes to take the lion's share of the steelhead.........or kill even more wild steelhead, in a quota effort to "Catch up." It is a wonder we have any wild steelhead at all!

The sad irony is.......WDFW has been so pseudo protective of the Grandy Creek and Rinker Creek steelhead, (which would enter during the later segment of the this kill fishery), they have not even allowed a Wild Steelhead Release fishery, on these late winter native steelhead. Now you want to subject these wild steelhead to a target kill fishery? This side of a fish trap........just how do you realistically plan to protect these wild returning steelhead? This proposed kill fishery would not only effect the mid river returning fish, but under MSY.......All the late returning Skagit River steelhead would be placed under undo pressure. We are already under escapement in our wild Skagit/Sauk steelhead......

A goodly portion of my livelihood is the C&R fishery for the wild late winter native steelhead. I have anglers who come from all parts of the world to partake in this spring time fishery. The short sightedness of this enhancement proposal would hurt my business, along with so many who rely on these late returning steelhead.

Please cast my vote as one who strongly opposes the Grandy Creek Steelhead Enhancement project, until we can find a better solution than MSY.

Sincerely,
Dennis Dickson

6/23/02

Hello Dennis,

Hi Dennis,

Hope all is well. Quick question.....are hatchery summer steelhead notoriously soft biters of the fly? I was out on the Snoqualmie last week and lost a couple of fish I didn't even know had taken my fly. I didn't feel a thing when the first fish took the fly, just thought I hung up on a rock when the line stopped swinging down and started to belly. I pre-set by pulling back and felt 3-4 hard head shakes, and the fish came off. A few days later I had a similar experience. My line was swinging through when the tip suddenly stopped (the rest of the line was bellying). I didn't feel a thing. This time around I set the hook, and it was a fish that took off upstream, came back down, surfaced, and then threw the hook.

I'm interested in buying a FLHS. Should I just send you a check or do I need to order through Mike's website?

Thanks!
Young

Young,

One of the great misconceptions is that steelhead always hook themselves....... You are obviously fishing the good water, and setting up you presentation well......or you wouldn't be getting the bites.......Remember in steelhead simulation....how the sensitivity increases dramatically.....with the low rod position? You are probably holding your rod tip too high. When you preset......you stated the steelhead shook his head four times.......well, that's about three times too many......rip his lips!!! Remember, all the preset is for: to detect fish from rock......

Keep that mill file handy........and use it. Sharp hooks land fish. (Remember which popular hooks to stay away from?)

You are really close here.......stay with it, you are all over it.

FLHS: Yes, go through Mikes website www.streamsideflyshop.com. You can even pay by plastic.

Happy fishing,
D

If someone drops out of the 15th of July class... please let me know.
How many slots do you have on the 14th?

I am aware that you are doing a camping trip(GR) but are you planning any day classes on the GR.?

Thanks for your time..
donicio

Donicio,

Thank you for the inquiry.......
Stilly School: I can put you on standby for the 15th.....or place you in the class of the 14th. Your choice.

GR: You bet.......we are booking single day guide trips from Oct. 1 > 8th. Happy to talk dates.

Tell me how I can help,
D

Hello Dennis,

I caught my first steelhead yesterday: a 30" hatchery male in the skykomish! A pretty awesome father's day present to myself (and my wife who let me go out).

The water was very high ( about 13000cfs and 18" visibility). I caught it in a shallow (about 2.5') seam in a riffle, on a cloudy day, with a red and orange marabou streamer. Pretty cool! I have dreamed about catching a steelhead on a fly for 30 years. I never would have even attempted to fish in these conditions if I had not taken your class in Feb.

Thank You.
Rod

Rod,

Kudo's on you.......my friend! It is one thing to take your first steelhead on a fly......it is quite another, the detect a high water pool, when the river is that high, with poor visibility. Now that is something. The parameters of reading holding areas do not change, but I think high water lies, are the tuffest to detect. That is way cool.....thanks for sharing it with me. See you in a few for the Stilly School.......Now we will talk about catching steelhead on the surface!

Best of fishing, D

hi Dennis,

i have a question about your 'floating line head system'. i have a Scott sts (fast action) 6 wt that's 10 feet in length that i use for summer steelhead. what line wt. and length would you recommend for this rod. i read your article, ' surface flies for steelhead', and you mentioned the length should be about 32 feet depending on your average cast, but I've seen guy's on the river with much shorter floating heads, say 15' or so but with a much bigger ratio between rod size and line wt. one guy i met was using a 10' sage rpl 6wt. with, i believe, a 15' section of 12 wt. i might be wrong this was a couple of seasons ago. one more question: what overall size of dry fly would you recommend for the north fork stilly when the water is less than 1000 cfps, a size 6? this will be my first year at getting serious with dry's for steelhead and I'm trying to get prepared.

thanks you very much,
bud

Hi Bud,

Thanks for the inquiry
First the Flies:

I only fish surface flies below Deer Creek, because you won't see the wild Deer Creek fish wander much above this tributary to the North Fork. (They are wonderful surface risers)

Secondly, The hatchery steelhead headed for Fortson are poor surface risers......so I don't even bother fishing the surface in the upper watershed.

Now to answer your question: I only fish surface flies if the water visibility is above 4 feet.......and down below Deer Creek, that means low summer flow conditions. I fish # 4 (Low water Crystal Caddis) to a # 8 Royal Wulf......during this time.

FLHS: You don't want to get this confused with the floating belly of a multi tip. The FLHS is a floating section of a weight forward line........the 32' is the floating belly AND the tip incorporated in one line. There is no loop system here......The reason your fellows were talking