“I Hate You Salmon” – A Poem of Frustration and Pain.
I went fishing today. It was swell. I discovered over the course of five (painful) hours that I hate landlocked salmon. HATE them. When they get in a taunting mood, I simply cannot deal with them. I mean honestly, you can’t tell me that salmon get their rocks off lazily following streamers. I don’t buy it, no Sir. I think they just enjoy being facetious. Then again, I’ve never really handled rejection well.
I missed the hook-set on a rather large fish today; one that brought tears to my eyes. And just before those tears had time to dry, another salmon roughly the size of my arm swam to within inches of my streamer. For what seemed like an eternity, he toyed with the idea of striking. I’ll never understand why some fish simply choose not to commit, but I’ll forever remember watching this one swim away. Casting from high above the water, I enjoyed (yeah right) a bird’s-eye view of his relentless taunts. I stayed focused on the pool my landlocked friend was no doubt inhabiting, but his disappearing act and plain arrogance ran all the time off my clock. At least a dozen streamers, angle changes, leader adjustments, and no less than 3 prayers (out loud mind you), and I still managed to walk away empty-handed, hearted, and absent of any pride or joy……(sigh)…… so in the interest of venting, I wrote a poem. Enjoy.
Better Days.
I hate you salmon, yes I do
I hate you always, through and through,
You burn my brain you haunt my soul
With every sip and every roll.
I hate you salmon, can’t you see?
This awful way you torment me.
With every splash you make me frown
And leave me dancing like a clown.
I’m kidding salmon, you’re a blast!
I love the way you dodge my cast
I smile when you destroy my fly,
Then leave me swearing at the sky
But in the end I’d have to say
Your game is one I love to play
And even though I hate your guts
I’ll always chase you like a putz.
“Hurry Up & Wait”
- After what felt like an eternity of bad weather, the rivers are finally returning to normal levels. Heavy downpours over the last few weeks have blown out most of the local haunts, turning crisp and clear to swift and milky – of the chocolate variety. Time spent off the water during the month of May is not time a fly fisherman should ever waste. With water levels fluctuating greatly from one day to the next, fishing for fishing’s sake can (and has been in the past) an overwhelming headache.
Success in the Spring depends largely on timing and patience. This week’s dry forecast and rising air temperatures should bring about an increase in fish activity as area rivers continue to drop and clear. Water temps remain on the cool side for now, and the fish we’ve encountered thus far seem to be feeding in water levels ranging from 2 to 6 feet below the surface. Yesterday’s salmon were more lively than the fish we encountered a few weeks earlier, which wasn’t surprising. Smaller bright-colored streamers fished on leaders between ten and twenty feet seem to be doing the trick at the moment, along with classic go-to patterns like the Grey Ghost, Black Nose Dace, and Mickey Finn.
I generally start my day fishing larger streamers, working my way down to smaller sizes if necessary until I find something that generates strikes. Most experienced fly fisherman in this area would agree that larger flies bring larger fish, and through my experiences I’d be inclined to agree. But fishing only large streamers has done nothing for my numbers in recent years, even if it has brought me some memorable catches. It took me long enough to realize that there is a time and a place for everything, and that includes fishing streamers of the Carrie Stevens variety. Simply put, don’t be afraid to fish smaller streamers, even in deep, swift waters. Anyone who fishes with me will tell you that more often than not I have a large grey ghost on the end of my line from late April through early June. But with a little trial and error coupled with some careful homework, I’m learning from experience that branching out can turn no luck into some luck nearly any day of the week.
I hope prime time (whenever that proves to be) will find you on the water and in the fish. Check back often, and best of luck on the water!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
“Biding My Time”
I’m still tickin’!
Work and life in general have kept me off the water this week, but the river waits for no one. The rain that we all knew was coming finally showed up on Sunday night, and the rivers have been slowly working their way towards levels we are more accustomed to during late April. I ventured south at the tail end of last week to make my presence known in the lower regions of our great state, but fishing never strayed far from my mind. Twenty minutes of browsing in the L.L.Bean Fishing store lightened my wallet, but afforded me an extra spool for my Lamson Litespeed, all wrapped up with an intermediate sinking line that should do wonders in the currently swelling Fish River. Saturday looks to be the day that I finally get back on the water, so for now I anxiously await what I hope will be another successful day of swinging streamers to (hopefully) hungry salmon.
It’s difficult to accept sometimes that fly fishing simply has to wait. My priorities have changed somewhat with a career entering the picture, but I’m far from out of the game. While summer vacation will allow me ample time to fish, I’ll need to work hard and budget my time if I plan on being successful during the Spring season. Success comes with hard work and dedication, and being a fair weather fisherman is simply not an option. I lose sleep at night thinking of spawning cycles, fly patterns, and stretches of river that I’m sure are holding fish. At the end of the day it’s all about getting on the water, and I’m frantic in my mission to wet a line. High water, low water, it really doesn’t matter. I need to be on the river, I need to fish.
With high water comes heightened risk, and this week provided an unfortunately reminder of this harsh reality. Warm temperatures and sunshine don’t necessarily mean warm water and safe conditions. I’ll be the first to admit that wearing a life jacket is typically little more than a passing thought for me, even during the most frigid days of April. Northern Maine lost a dedicated father and fisherman earlier this week, and I couldn’t be more sorry for the families that are suffering through this tragic incident. Fishing isn’t meant to be dangerous, but even the most accomplished sportsmen can fall victim to harsh conditions. I plan on wearing my life jacket until water levels reach safer levels and temperatures, and I urge my fellow fishermen to do the same. Life is far too precious to gamble, and experience counts for little when mother nature has other plans. Regardless, I take to the water this weekend with a heavy heart, and send my sincere condolences to the families of those who have lost an irreplaceable piece of their daily puzzle.
Enjoy your time on the water, be aware, and be safe each and every time you cast a line.
See you on the river,
-Ben
Punching In
The new Helios finally got a workout at the hands (figuratively speaking) of a hefty landlocked salmon measuring at just under 23 inches and close to 4 lbs. He put up no fight, instead opting to put the brakes on my streamer while he held his ground. My first impression was that I had snagged bottom, but a few nasty head shakes took care of that theory. More (and better) pictures to come, along with a full fishing conditions report for early April. Stay tuned!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
“Weather Roulette”
Silent slipping frigid waters flowing uncaged memory
Early morning breathing softly stunning chill suppressing me
Warm in waders hands in pockets coffee cooling drink it fast
Counting precious seconds countless minutes daylight shines at last.
Casting out at nothing feeling something waiting not to be
Sounds of Summer calling ice filled guides coax sun to set them free.
“Chasing Ghosts with Ghosts”
The weather through early April has been anything but consistent, and my mood has been anything but pleasant. It seems mother nature has decided that I need to slip and slide on the roads during my morning commute, and quite frankly I’m getting tired of waking up to snow. The endless cycle of morning flurries and evening melting has me mildly annoyed, and the lackluster fishing early on is not helping my sour mood.
- Snowy Morning, April 9th
Today I added a 10′ft “extra super sink” poly leader to my 5wt Orvis 3D Trout line in hopes that I could get my streamers further down in search of what are clearly lethargic salmon. I can’t recall ever throwing such a heavy leader, and the extra few feet of 8lb tippet made my 12+ foot rig fairly difficult to cast. My 10ft 5wt tip-flex Orvis Helios has me extremely impressed thus far, but even my newly acquired rocket launcher didn’t seem to have the kaboom required to cast such a bulky mess. Forty feet was about all I could manage at the end of the day, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t sloppily reaching.
- Ghosts to Raise Ghosts: Afternoon Arsenal on Soldier Pond
Regardless, even with a lighter leader, my seemingly football field length bomber casts still haven’t been producing fish. With April water levels resembling those of late June, I’m still holding on to hope that it might be just a tad too early in the season for the all-out blitz I’m looking for. Grey Ghost, Green Ghost, and any other variation I can think to tie simply aren’t raising these ghostly salmon. With a little luck I’m hoping things might pick up just in time for my vacation next week. Time will most certainly tell.
- Spring Sunset, April 9th
See you on the river,
-Ben
Happy Easter
If the Easter Bunny didn’t show up at your dwelling this morning, look no further for answers as to his whereabouts. The cause of death is still under investigation, but my money is on a few innovative muskie fishermen who I know are experimenting with a new live baiting technique. Honestly though, what kind of rabbit lays eggs? That story is so far fetched.
- Easter Bunny turned muskie bait on the Saint John River.
It’s Coming
As you’ve undoubtedly noticed, Up’North is counting down the days until the 2012 open water fishing season arrives on Sunday, April 1st. I’ve been writing for the better part of three hours, but my excitement dealt a knockout blow to my grammar and organizational skills before I could put the finishing touches on my “Gear in Review” post. Check back tomorrow for the finished (and hopefully polished) piece offering an inside look at some of the gear I’ll be testing throughout the 2012 season. Great products from Loon Outdoors, Orvis, L.L.Bean, Lamson-Waterworks, and more. For now, enjoy a little photography from this past Fall at Round Pond. I’ll come back atchya’ before you know it!
3 days and counting, waiting about as patiently as you might expect.
-Ben
“March is Melting Away”
I’m not sure if the 70 degree weather has anything to do with this, but the sunset tonight was unbelievable. Only 9 more days until I get to enjoy the scenery on the river with a fly rod in hand. Who needs Christmas countdowns?
Bartender, on Ice!
I know northern Maine is far from the only place experiencing unusually warm temperatures lately, but this is downright frightening. I have watched the Fish river thaw in the front of my house for the better part of a month, but I never expected it to be free and clear of ice before April 1st. The first official day of open water fishing is rarely a day that sees me on the water, but mother nature seems to have other plans this time around.
March 20 is the earliest I have ever personally seen the Fish river running clear, and I’m honestly not sure how I feel about it. The strange weather will likely result in a less-than-predictable Spring fishing season; and unless we get some rain in the near future, running the river through late May will be a chore. Regardless, I have less than two weeks to make my final preparations before I open the door on my first full season of fly fishing northern rivers in nearly six years.
- Fish River free of Ice, March 20, 2012
Meanwhile, I was lucky enough to haul one last brook trout through the ice this past saturday before the end of the ice fishing season. The temps climbed well into the 60s as we watched our flags from lawn chairs parked in the middle of the lake. In addition to the trout we landed nearly a dozen perch and a lonely chub before the sun sank down behind the mountains. Only eleven days left until open water fishing, and I can’t wait to trade the snowmobiles and ice traps in for my canoe and fly rods. Viva la ice-out!
- 16inch Brook Trout fresh from the ice.
See you on the river,
-Ben
Cover Your…
Up’North recently made it’s marketing debut courtesy of Travis Duval and the great people at United Insurance! See that brook trout? I put it to net in 2008 during a beautiful Fall evening trolling streamers on the Fish river. Catching that fish remains one of my most cherished memories in fly fishing, and I couldn’t be more proud that the hard-working people at United Insurance decided to use my photo when designing their new guide pamphlet for 2012.
I’ve known Travis Duval for as long as I can remember, and aside from being a standup guy, he also holds a true passion for hunting and fishing. Whether he’s chasing partridge in the Allagash during the dead of Fall, or casting for muskie on the Saint John River, Travis lives his life in and around the Maine wilderness. If you make your living guiding clients in the Maine’s great outdoors, why not trust an insurance agent who truly knows what you need in an insurance policy? Review the materials below, and feel free to give your friendly area agent a call with any questions or inquiries.
Travis knows what you need to guide your next outdoor adventure, and that knowledge provides him with the expertise needed to guide your insurance decisions as well.
- Click Image to Read Details!
- Click Image to Read Details!
A sincere thank you goes out to Travis Duval, Thibodeau’s Insurance, and the rest of the United Insurance family. See you on the river; wherever the current takes you!
-Ben
“The Alaska Chronicles”
It’s been nearly three years since “The Alaska Chronicles” was published, so you could say I’m a little behind. After battling a barrage of college history books, my love for reading suffered a brutal blow and has since endured a lengthy and strenuous recovery period. I was cruising Amazon a few weeks back and came across Mr. Nolte’s book completely by accident. I’d be withholding information if I didn’t say I instantly had one of those “have you been living under a rock” moments. In the process of ordering “The Alaska Chronicles,” I noticed it was conveniently available as an ebook. I downloaded it and subsequently finished it before I went to sleep that night.
- Click to Purchase!
Books of this nature are typically a difficult read for me, I’ll be the first to admit that. Reading about someone else’s adventures on the water seldom holds a candle to enjoying those experiences myself, so I generally avoid the genre altogether. Miles Nolte may be an experienced and well-respected guide, but if he can cast a fly as well as he can write, he deserves an Alaskan river named in his honor. From the opening line to the closing paragraph, The Alaska Chronicles was so beautifully written that it rendered me sleepless when I finished it, a feat few novels from countless bestselling authors have ever managed to accomplish. But the genius of this story wasn’t accomplished with loaded words, embellished descriptive paragraphs, or any sort of artsy literary work at all. Simplicity paved the way, a simplicity that helped me experience Alaska at a level that could only be bested by a plane ticket and a guided trip of my own.
Miles Nolte’s “no bullshit” approach to writing was refreshing, and his story reads as what I can only dare to imagine is the definitive truth behind the highs and lows of working as an Alaskan river guide. He manages to portray his clients in a way that is as respectful as it is critical and humorous. The dip-spitting rednecks, the grateful (and sometimes ungrateful) executives, and the arrogant “pinner” show us that guiding is nothing if not brutally challenging at times, while at other times humbling and rewarding. He manages to highlight the “not so glamorous” side of guiding in one of the most beautiful places in the world, a task not so easily accomplished when addressing what many see as the dream job of all dream jobs. But in an inexplicable sort of way, Miles Nolte makes the experience more desirable. In reading, you feel for him when the fishing fails to cooperate, and you celebrate his triumphs as if you are standing beside him, waist deep with net in hand. Many authors can immerse you in a world of fantasy or terror, but few in my experience can make such a simple reality so overwhelmingly gripping. Every rainy day, every cheap cup of coffee, every moment of motor trouble leaves you wishing you could share in the misery. The Alaska Chronicles is uncut, unaltered truth at it’s finest; and you can’t help but appreciate Nolte’s attention to detail. The lack of polish is ironically what makes this story shine, and the only fault I dare point out is that the story could not avoid an ending.
Two thumbs WAY UP for Miles Nolte and “The Alaska Chronicles.” Looking back, I regret not taking a day out of my busy schedule to read it sooner. Upon completion I immediately ordered a hardcover copy for my ever-expanding library, and I urge anyone who does not own a copy to do the same. The Alaska Chronicles is a must-have book for any fly fisherman, avid or otherwise. Crawl out from under your rock and read it, I couldn’t be more happy that I did.
See you on the river,
-Ben
On The Menu
..................... . . . . Coming soon on Up'North
What did you think “On The Menu” meant?
- Up’North’s marketing debut: Who’s guiding your insurance decisions?
- A photographic timeline: Dad’s cedar strip canoe build Part 1.
- Book reviews: The Alaska Chronicles, Guaranteed to Last: L.L.Bean’s Century of Outfitting America, Lines on the Water:
A Fly Fisherman’s Life on the Miramichi - Fall 2011 photography feature: The lost collection.
- Gear 2012: A look at Up’North’s favorites from L.L.Bean, Simms, Ross, Orvis, and more.
- Battle Ready: Choosing a fly rod for northern Maine rivers.
It all kicks off this weekend, don’t go far!
Tight Lines,
-Ben
Happy 3rd Up’North!
As you’ve undoubtedly heard time and time again over the course of three years on this site, time moves slowly in my neck of the woods. But that’s not to say that it drags. This week makes three years since Up’North officially grew it’s wings, and I count this website among the aspects of my life that have flown by. Come to think of it, “time moves slowly” seems awfully inaccurate. Time is constant; it’s what you do, where you live, and who you spend that time with that really determines the quality and pace at which you move through life. If Maine won any superlatives in a yearbook, it would probably nab most laid back. I’d like to think my life, and this site, live up to that superlative. If not, I’ve got some serious work to do.
I started writing the standard “I’d like to thank everyone…” post to commemorate Up’North’s third year, but half way through, a lethal combination of sinus medication and boredom locked me up in a deep slumber and threw away the key. Simply put, you know who you are. If you’ve ever done anything to support Up’North in any way at all, I am sincerely thankful for your contributions. If not, I take cash or credit, literature or gear.
I’ve learned a lot about the bloggin’ business in three years, and not all of it brings a smile to my face. One thing I know for certain is that at some point, posting on a daily basis simply started to suck. I wasn’t excited about waking up early to sit at my laptop anymore, go figure. The pressure became unnecessary, and Up’North became more taxing than fun. I had to make a change. Year three for Maine Fly Castings was a year full of changes, eventually leading to the simple looking blog I present to you today. My goal was to capture the bare essentials of fly fishing in northern Maine. The sights and the sounds through photography and creative writing. The world through my eyes. I feel like I’ve accomplished that goal, and readership has shown I’m headed in the right direction. People ask me often if I believe my blog is successful, and I’m honestly never sure what they want to hear in my answer. Up’North will never make me rich, but I let that dream go early on. What I believe makes Up’North successful stems from the relationships it has helped me form, and the opportunities it has generated for me in the world of fly fishing. I’ve met some amazing people simply because I love fly fishing, and not all are directly involved in the industry. Some are fish bums just like me, others are photographers, and many others are talented writers, poets, or just plain interesting individuals. Some I have had the pleasure of meeting, some I no doubt will meet sooner than later. So do I believe Up’North is successful after 3 years? Definitely. Anything that further enhances my love for fly fishing is a smashing success in my book. Below you will find a number of things I’ve learned in my years at the helm of Up’North Maine Fly Castings. Some good, some not so good. This isn’t meant to be a guide by any stretch, just some simple observations that I feel have helped me stay sane since this all began on a cold February night in 09′.
- Up’North’s Original Graphic: Circa 2009
- It is beneficial to write ONLY what you know, and think about the audience you wish to reach. Everyone wants thousands of views a day, but have you ever stopped to think about who those people actually are? I hope to reach those who truly love fly fishing, regardless of where they live. These people typically enjoy nature in general, so they usually stick around when I veer off to write about hunting, or simply focus on photography for a few weeks. If I have nothing in common with the people viewing my materials, what good does it do me? By writing what you know and finding your niche, your audience may be small, but I guarantee they will be more engaged. I don’t want people to read my posts in passing, I want them to sit and think about the content and experience my experiences for themselves. If I can do that, I’ve accomplished my goal.
- With that said, I’ve learned it’s important to listen to my readers. Answer emails, entertain phone calls, and be respectful of their opinions. That’s not to say I write or post something simply because someone asks for it, but I have been known to answer requests from time to time. Chances are, my readers favorite posts are also my favorite posts to write. This type of personal attention can open many doors, and I cringe to think at the opportunities that may have slipped by had I not opened a certain email or replied to a comment.
- Dictate your own direction. You wouldn’t believe the suggestions and offers I get from people and organizations on nearly a daily basis. Promises of higher web traffic, increased income from advertising, and free products or discounts in exchange for a post about camping or their snazzy new trolling motor. Don’t sell out and stray from delivering on the image YOU wish to portray. Can you really use a 10% discount at crazyboatingdeals.com? Follow your own path, and I promise you a better deal will come along. The most successful blogs are usually the most personal ones. People may read recycled garbage that you pulled from other sites, but they won’t remember you for it.
- Just because it’s free, doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it. Fly fishermen are creatures of habit, a fact that is reflected by our gear and the locations we frequent in search of fish. In three years I’ve had the opportunity to fish dozens of fly rods from many reputable brands. I am extremely grateful that these companies continue to allow me the chance to test their products, but that doesn’t mean they all get a sparkling review. Admittedly, a fly rod has to really make a first impression if I’m going to take it out more than a handful of times. The rod I purchased before Up’North was even a thought is still a frequent companion of mine on even my most demanding trips, an honor than only two high-end rods have earned in a span of three years. It’s not that I don’t appreciate the advantages of new technologies, I just enjoy casting something that feels familiar. If it doesn’t offer a significant advantage to me on the water, I probably won’t give it a second look.
- It’s perfectly acceptable to leave the camera home. Some days on the water I prefer to keep just for me, and that’s alright. I no longer stress about taking photos, or documenting the days events as soon as I get home. I do this because I love fly fishing, but I refuse to let a constant need to “capture the moment” ruin my experience. Personally, it’s the moments that I can’t explain through words or photos that allow me to love what I do. No amount of promotional products or free gear will ever dictate what you see on Up’North. It’s all about being on the water, documenting what you feel is worth documenting, and simply enjoying life at your own pace.
- Just because it’s been done, doesn’t mean you can’t do it again. True, people have written about their experiences on the water or photographed their dog on the hunt, but sometimes a different perspective can be refreshing. Outings in Montana are different from outings in Maine, and the Summer sunset in Aroostook Country casts a far different shadow than the one in Bozeman. It’s not always about finding something new, sometimes it’s about looking at something familiar in a not so familiar way. Change angles, change perspectives, and people will genuinely appreciate your creativity.
- Take a break. You can’t force creativity, sometimes you just need to sit back and let it come to you. Some of the best authors in the world spend many years on a single novel, and some of the best photographers take thousands of pictures to capture that one perfect shot. If you aren’t happy with your work, how can you expect that from others? A half-hearted piece of writing is like a half painted house. You get a glimpse of what it could be, but in the end it’s still an unfinished product.
- Read more, write more. Read anything and everything you can get your hands on. Read about fly fishing, read about hunting, read about time travel, read about law. Whatever your interests, reading is a great way to strengthen your vocabulary and develop your own style. Writing is a progressive art that will only improve with effort and persistence. I’m no Hemingway, but I do feel I’ve come a long way with my writing simply through reading and learning to appreciate the styles of other authors. Write often; notes, letters, stories, and poems. Create a word document and save any and every idea, phrase, or quote you think up or come across. Keep a notepad by the bed, in the car, and most importantly in your river gear. You are bound to remember the details of your day that stand out, but sometimes the underlying details are the ones that make the best stories. You will never truly appreciate this advice until you put it to practice, trust me.
- Don’t be selfish, pay it forward. Share your experiences and ability with fellow bloggers and outdoorsmen (or women). I was lost when I started Up’North, and if more experienced bloggers wouldn’t have come to my aid answering emails or phone calls for help, maineflycastings.com would be dead in the water. Share your thoughts often, offer constructive criticism, and take criticism from others willingly and with appreciation. I am forever in debt to those who weren’t afraid to hurt my feelings when suggesting changes or improvements to Up’North. In fact, many of those changes are what make my site so successful today.
- Don’t take yourself too seriously. Blogging about fly fishing is a lot like fly fishing in itself. Above all, the experience is supposed to be fun and rewarding. If it stops being fun, take a break and give yourself time to recover. Shit happens, and no one expects you to blog through the most testing trials and tribulations of every day life. I didn’t get into fly fishing because of blogging, I got into blogging because of fly fishing. I’m no professional, just a well-versed country boy who enjoys chasing fins and telling tall tales. I have no interest in living up to the expectations of others when it comes to fly fishing, and this blog is no different. Up’North gives me the freedom to express myself and share my views on fly fishing and all things related with the world. No work, all play. I enjoy what I do, and feel privileged that so many others seem to enjoy it too.
At the end of the day, Up’North is toast without its readers. Nothing makes me happier than meeting complete strangers on the river or in the street who happen to visit my blog regularly. Interactions like those are what keep me going, and I feed off the inspiration I gain from other anglers and bloggers. I’m not sure where Up’North will be a year from now, but I look forward to what it can potentially become. Thank you for coming along for the ride, it’s been a true blessing since day one. Look forward to big, big things in 2012. Settled down and focused on the task at hand (with summers off), I should have no problem logging 150+ solid days on the water this season.
The fly boxes are being filled and April is right around the corner; this will be my fly fishing comeback.
Here’s to another 3 years! Tight lines,
-Ben
“eMag eXcellence”
February is typically a difficult month for me. By now winter has landed a few lucky punches, school is rolling at full steam, and every body of water I fish north of Bangor is caught in an unrelenting icy grip. March won’t likely prove much better, and opening day in April never seems to coordinate with ice-out. Time moves slowly between the hunting months of Fall, the holidays, and the fly tying season in February and March. Routines become monotonous, void of excitement or surprises.
Enter fly fishing eMags.
I follow very few online fly fishing publications, but “Catch” and “This is Fly” have long remained two of my all-time favorites. The photography features in both are always original and stunning, the articles are on point, and the addition of videos (eat your heart out print) has proven to be a nice finishing touch. Simply put, every issue leaves me wanting more.
Check out the two latest issues below, and remember, a brand new fishing season is right around the corner.
Click to Read
Click to Read
“When I Grow Up”
….I want to be part of the research and development team for Loon Outdoors.
No seriously, whoever originally pitched this idea at the Loon product meeting should get an instant induction into the fly fishing hall of fame. Something so simple, so useful, so brilliantly perfect in every way. It’s like they followed the Up’North crew on a fishing trip, reviewed the footage, and designed a product based on what they felt would make our time on the water more enjoyable. The R&D for these nippers must have been priceless, how could it not be? They probably didn’t need to test them on the water, but who would pass up that opportunity? I’ve always been a fan of Loon products, but this addition tops them all. Extra wide thumb pads, hook-eye clearing needle, and…….a bottle opener. This nifty little tool is a long time coming in my neck of the woods.
- Click to purchase the Loon Outdoors “Nip N Sip” tool!
The people at Loon Outdoors undoubtedly realize that R&D doesn’t stop once your product reaches fly shop shelves. Constant testing in the harshest of environments is a necessary part of product development, and I for one would be more than willing to lend a hand in the process. What better place than northern Maine to put your gear through the necessary paces? No such place exists. Please note, I accept free samples for testing purposes. Just sayin’.
In all seriousness, this product is one of those little innovations that just seems to make sense. I commend the people at Loon Outdoors for bringing some refreshing (no pun intended) originality into the nipper department. This is sure to be a huge product for them in 2012, and is already creating a worthy buzz among industry insiders and average Joes alike. Just another “must have” tool to have handy when the Spring salmon run pops off (again, no pun intended) after ice-out.
Pray for hasty thaw!
-Ben
“Go West Young Man”
Maine is a long way from the western steelhead rivers that haunt my dreams. One day I’ll live my dream and hoist chrome for the first time, mark my words. When I do head out west to knock fly fishing for steelhead off my bucket list, I want Ian Majszak of Detonation Studios there with his camera rolling. What excited me more than the fishing in this video is the sheer camaraderie surrounding this epic fishing trip. Nothing I have ever experienced on the east coast seems to hold a candle to what you will witness in Ian’s video below. To be completely honest, I’m not sure I even know enough dedicated fly fishermen in Maine willing to organize a fishing trip of this size. Almost makes me wanna pack up and head west! Almost.
Tribute..steelhead camp from Detonation Studios on Vimeo.
Seriously though, big props to Ian for this latest video. Detonation Studios is set to have a huge year in 2012, and I for one cant wait to see what the next twelve months bring. Heres to hoping we can toss a line together someday, somewhere west of my snowy Maine home. Thanks for keeping Up’North “in the know” as you continue to drop new, inspiring material for us to enjoy.
Tight Lines,
-Ben
New From L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean has been pouring loads of R&D into their fly fishing lineup in recent years, and the Pocket Water Fly Rod and Reel are proof that their efforts are paying off. With four different options between a 6’6″ 3wt and a 7’10″ 5wt, the Pocket Water series is a beautifully affordable addition to an already attractive lineup of quality rods. Designed for small stream or pond casts of under 40 feet, this portable four piece rod is the perfect companion on your next fishing trip in the rugged north Maine woods. Combined with the simple, functional Pocket Water reel, this outfit is a lightweight answer to your backwoods prayers. Crafted out of machined 6000-series aluminum and armed with a dependable click-and-pawl drag, this reel will be right at home in the bed of a pickup or the bottom of a boat. Available separately (rod available now, reel January 16) or together as an outfit (February 24), the Pocket Water series is at the top of my list for Spring 2012. Head over to L.L.Bean now to get your first glimpse today!
- L.L.Bean Pocket Water Fly Rod & Reel
Tight Lines and Happy……Winter? Hold out for Spring by updating your arsenal!
-Ben
Money Money Money
I don’t share a ton of secrets on here, so consider this a little Christmas gift from me to you. The streamer on the top is the latest rendition of my “money-maker,” a proven pattern I am continuously building on season after season. Trial and error have really done the trick for this streamer in recent years, and this version will be the end-all of this pattern. A peek is all you get, so analyze away. The colors are simple enough, but no less than 7 different materials form the tail (a little long here, chop by half), wing, and neck. Tie it weighted if you see fit, but I never felt the need. Trout seem to be first at the table for this meal, but salmon are always a welcome dinner guest.
The soft-hackle pattern is simply braided red/green 70-denier thread with a red neck and tail. It seemed like the obvious “just for fun” wet to tie on Christmas day, but I can see it working come mid-June. Tis the season!
-Ben
Up’North Christmas Carol
So here we are again, sitting patiently at the doorstep of another Christmas. Between the weather, work, and shopping season, I’m not sure how I managed to make it this far in one piece! This last year has been full of surprises, and the Christmas season certainly has a way of putting things into perspective. More than gifts and cookies (but not much more), Christmas is a time to take stock of all that you have to be thankful for. My list is vast, encompassing everything from my first career teaching position, to that beautiful day I spent on the river during a trout frenzy in May. The road has not been without its twists and turns, but the scenery is always breathtaking.
If anything, this last year has really given me a new outlook on change. I guess I used to be somewhat naive when I returned home from college, thinking the places and people that fill my life weren’t changing in any sense of the word. The fishing never got worst, but it never really got better. Summer days on the lake never ended on a bad note, even when I managed to have “too much fun.” Even my dog never seemed to age, continuing in her relentless cycle of eat, sleep, eat, sleep.
Now that I once again call northern Maine home, the little details I had missed for nearly five years have found their way back to me quickly. The crowds are different now, new faces dot the landscapes of bridges, streams, tackle shops, and river banks. Best friends still remain, only as a more refined group of hardened locals. We laugh about the past, but work diligently towards the future, never really knowing what tomorrow might hold. Time still moves slowly in these parts, but with more purpose than I noticed before. The little things I miss about my past suddenly don’t seem so important anymore, proving once and for all that less truly can be more. In between work, early bedtime, and weekend errands, I’ve come to realize that my little place in the world is growing up with me. Like a finely aged wine, my life seems more refined on this night before Christmas. My mind is at ease, with fewer questions remaining unanswered than in earlier years. I know where I belong, and for that I am blessed and eternally grateful.
Up’North has followed a similar path as of late, not counting our usual lull during the holiday season. I must have the most patient readers in the world, because traffic has remained steady even in my numerous and prolonged absences. I think it’s fair to say that the focus has somewhat changed, and I’m at peace with that. People want original content in any shape or format, and I couldn’t be happier to oblige. At the end of the day, I draw inspiration from all corners of the globe when determining the direction of Maine Fly Castings. I would like to thank everyone who played a role in my success this year, be it through endorsements, inspiration, or any sort of contributing content. The list includes, but is certainly not limited to, the Fishing Poet Mr. Matt Smythe, brother Lipton, aka the Roughfisher, all the fellas at Chi Wulff, LOTFO, and everyone at LLBean. Ian Majszak of Detonation Studios, Nick English and all the people at Simms Fly Fishing, Ben and the rest of the clan at Leland Fly Fishing Outfitters, and any other fly fishing industry figures who have opened their arms to me and my humble website. Rhon Bell of BackwoodPlaid.com for the outstanding photography and constant support, Mr. Michael Gracie for your consistency in producing an outstanding blog that remains among my favorites, Brett Colvin and Jason Morrison for your inspiring work behind the lens, and any other blogger, writer, photographer, artist, or fishing junkie who has dropped me a line to chat, given me helpful advice, or just produced quality work that I truly enjoy.
The best part about my experience with Up’North is the people I meet and interact with along the way. If I could thank all of you in person I would, but geography can be both a blessing and a curse. I hope to chase a few fins with each and every one of you when life allows, and look forward to eventually sharing stories and drinking your beers when I visit in the near or distant future.
Merry Christmas ladies and gents, make it one for the record books.
-Ben
Thanks, But no thanks.
-Howdy folks.
It’s been quiet the year, and this season has given me much to be thankful for that I didn’t have before. I found my way home, secured a teaching job back in northern Maine, and made some memories to last a lifetime both in the woods and on the water. 2011 didn’t find me fishing nearly as frequently, but the times I did get out were extremely successful. Luck played a big role (or the only role) in that success, but I have no problem pretending it was all raw determination and talent.
As Winter continues its devilish dance with the remaining guardians of Fall, fly fishing in northern Maine shifts gears as the season grows cold. Fly rods bow down to tying vises, reels and fly lines take a back-seat to streamer hooks, threads, and feathers. Tying is typically a relaxing way to burn a few hours (and a bottle of wine) and nothing is quiet as exciting as filling those badly depleted fly boxes for the upcoming season. Looking past the obvious benefits, sitting down at the vise also allows for abundant time to reflect on the dying year. With only one month left until we close the books on 2011, I can’t help but reflect on everything that I’ve enjoyed since November one year ago. What many people fail to realize is that joy doesn’t have to be one dimensional, and that hatred can actually bring an extremely satisfying sense of joy on many occasions. With that in mind, enjoy Up’North’s first EVER (oh yes) “Thanks, but no thanks” list. Call it what you want, but know that my opinion (while typically correct and of sane nature) is simply my opinion. You don’t have to like it (you should) or agree with me (again, you probably should) but at least by the end I’ve hopefully helped you think about what might bring you joy during this holiday season. Here. We. Go.
- Crocs — While comfortable and convenient, Crocs get a bad rap for a number of reasons, the most obvious being that they make anyone who wears them look like an idiot. Beyond being detrimental to your social life, studies show that Crocs are actually detrimental to your health and life-skills as well. Tripping becomes a frequent occurrence, and several people have reported actually losing the ability to tie their shoes or even fasten velcro.
- Easy Loops — Most fly lines come with a “quick loop” at the end to fasten a leader quickly and efficiently, but I’ve discovered that it actually hinders my fishing more than it helps. Some of my worst knots on the water have formed AT this convenient loop, and this season I finally did away with the loop altogether on all but my heaviest setups. Well-executed nail knots allow for clean, crisp presentations, and cause a minimal disturbance on the surface when picking up the line. Just snip it.
- Bemini Tippets — I hate them, very much. They knot, sometimes before they even touch the water. They don’t help me cast further, they don’t make changing tippets more convenient, and they cost 100% more than they are worth. No thanks.
- Decaf Coffee — You are an impostor. Stop tying to be something you clearly are not. You don’t even attempt to give me energy, just sitting there in the pot pretending to be your useful, delicious relative. You will never cure my headaches, you will never join me on early morning commutes, you will never enjoy morning fog on the river, or grace the dash of my pickup during hunting season. Just go away.
- Ethanol – You take up 10% of my gas, but I don’t recall inviting you to my tank. You play crude jokes on my motors, cause more harm than good when it comes to the environment because of your lengthy manufacturing process, and fail to increase my gas milage regardless of what I put you in. You eat up government subsidies that would be better wasted elsewhere, the key term here being wasted. I like corn, but would gladly give it up if it meant I would never have to deal with you again.
- Honorable mentions — Pop tarts (you make me fat), whole wheat pasta (gross), cheap fly reels (you’re a drag), machine tied flies (with love from China), unpaid vacations (time is money), pants you have to iron (usually means I’m not fishing), candy corn (tastes like?), hummus (all flavors are equally gross), and flooding (rain isn’t always a good thing).
So there you have it, short, sweet, and on the money. Feel free to add your very own in the comments section below, and remember that joy is what you make it.
Happy Holidays, and all that jolly jazz.
-Ben
Storylines
Scratches, scrapes, dings and dents. Every canoe has them, some worst than others. Minor or major, repaired or left open, each mark tells a story that might inspire laughs, tears, or even a healthy amount of finger pointing.
Lord knows my canoe bears it fair share of scars. A few of the most memorable were acquired during an afternoon portage between Deboullie and Gardiner pond with my buddy Alex. Over rocks and roots, through gravel and mud, from one pond to the other. The bottom of a canoe reads like a map, lines scattered in every direction outstretched like mountain streams. Each one runs differently, signs of character carved one by one, memories of shallow waters and sleepers that wait silently just below the surface. The simple fact is that sometimes canoes just need to take a beating, something most will do willingly year after year. Just like a pickup truck isn’t meant to sit in a showroom, no canoe is bred to take the easy way out.
Storylines
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