Happy Birthday Up'North
- It’s Up’North’s first birthday, and everyone is invited!
From our home base in northern Maine, to California, Alaska, Australia, Finland and even mother Russia, Up’North’s reach has extended far beyond my wildest expectations.
47,366 total views, over 300 rss subscribers, 474 posts, 690 comments, and over 800 different post tags resulting in a respectable presence on some of the Internet’s most popular search engines.
471 Twitter followers and 1,959 tweets, 340 Facebook page fans, and hundreds of Facebook friends from guiding, retail, conservation, and other fly fishing and even hunting backgrounds. Companies and organizations from L.L.Bean, Orvis, and many more have taken notice, some more than others. Quality friendships have formed with contacts from Minnesota, California, Montana, Alaska, Finland, and beyond.
In short, it’s been a very busy year for MaineFlyCastings.com. Countless hours, contributors, and helping hands later Up’North has grown from a spur of the moment idea and hobby to what could very well be a full time job. But while obvious growth on multiple levels has occurred, the goal remains the same: Spreading a love of fly fishing from the tiny confines of northern Maine to ANYONE who is willing to listen. While endless hours are spent in front of a computer, the heart and soul of Up’North still remains on the rivers, remote ponds, and lakes of Northern Maine. It’s all about best friends, good times, and the simple pleasures in life, and MaineFlyCastings.com further enhances these good vibes.
I am truly proud and extremely excited about how far this simple little fishing blog has come in such a short period of time. If I had it to do all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. To my friends, family, and all of those who have shown me unfaltering support over the past year, I am truly grateful and honored. Many people have sacrificed time, money, and more to make Up’North such a great success, all without ever asking for a thing in return. These people are the reason that one year later, this tiny little blog from northern Maine is running like a well maintained Johnson 8, with no signs of seizing up or running out of fuel any time soon.
So, for the 474th time, with 6 new post tags,
Tight Lines, and Happy Castings.
-Ben
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Thinking Aloud
- Ok,
So I know I’ve been a little distant lately, but I promise that very shortly things around here will change for the better. With public school vacation only 3 days away (not that I’m counting) I will finally get the rare opportunity to readjust my focus to fly fishing and tying. Writing less on Up’North was never something I wanted, but I would be lying if I said It wasn’t completely necessary if I plan on becoming a successful teacher in the years to come. Still, I look for creative and exciting ways to blend my passion for fly fishing with my philosophy of education. While I’m sure I’ll figure out a way to integrate my obsession some day, now simply is NOT the time, or so I’m told.
But does blending my passion of fly fishing into education really mean teaching students about fly fishing, or is there more to it than that? Wouldn’t teaching students about having passion for ANYTHING be completely relative? How about the importance of finding something that calms you, or giving yourself an opportunity to be creative-a real individual. As the world continues to spin violently out of control into economic unrest and social confusion, it can be easy to discount the profound effect such difficult times have on students. For the most part I see followers, all hanging on the ideals of parents and friends, unable to think outside the box or construct an honest opinion they are willing to defend. Enter fly fishing.
I don’t know, maybe I’m just thinking out loud, but I really feel like I’m on to something here. Not teaching fly fishing, but teaching passion, individualism, and culture THROUGH fly fishing, or at least the idea of it. Showing my students that being successful means so much more than getting straight A’s and being popular. It time to start directing my obvious sentiments for the pastime I love towards something positive, and breathing life into a society that has been far too lifeless for far too long.
Wow, that was deep.
Tight lines,
-Ben
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Mornin' Coffee: Welcome Back Fall
- I’m not sure why I enjoy fall so much, after all, it does mark the end of fishing season. Still, something about this beautiful season just seems to improve any terrible moods I’m in. Hunting season is always a plus, bird hunting with my dad or with some friends, and trudging through waist deep snow looking for deer that just never seem to show up. The cool weather makes sleeping much more enjoyable, and the fall colors make every picture THAT much better.
Tying on one last Dry
With yesterday being the first day of fall, I think it is finally time for me to acknowledge the sad truth, my fishing season is practically over. I’ll be attending the L.L.Bean Hunting Expo this coming weekend, which coincidentally falls on the last weekend of the season. While some remote ponds will remain open for a few more months, the likelihood of me finding the time to actually get out and fish them is slim to none.
Gone are the days of 10 minute drives to fish from the bridge over Soldier Pond, and gone are the days of swinging a beefy Gray Ghost in the fish river for hungry landlocked salmon. While I can look back and reminisce on some of the finer moments of my season, I would have to say with gritted teeth that overall, I’m disappointed.
The Spring season saw by far the most fish, including my largest landlocked to date, which gave me hope for a productive summer and even fall. Being away from home severely cut into my time fishing in northern Maine, and going elsewhere to satisfy my need for trout was much more difficult than I had ever expected.
My best day of fishing in 2009, a day on the Fish River with Dad, and my best Landlocked Salmon to date.
But above all, my disappointment comes from two goals that I failed to reach during the 2009 season, catching my first Striper and Muskie on a Fly Rod. I put equal time in trying to complete each goal, but it’s safe to say that both fish require much more than 2 or three full days on the water. I simple could not find the time.
I’d like to thank Mac Mckeever for giving me a couple chances at some stripers, and opening my eyes to an entirely different side of fly fishing. While neither of us were fortunate enough to land a fish while we were on the water together, I have no doubt that eventually we’ll run into some better luck.
This summer I also had the opportunity to meet and fish with none other than the Roughfisher himself, Mr. Jean-Paul Lipton. It was an absolute pleasure fishing with such a classy fellow, and I look forward to many more days of learning from the King of Carp. Who knows, maybe I have a little brownliner in me somewhere!
In closing I would like to thank all the companies, individuals, and family who have supported me and my fishing pursuits in the last year. I could not keep writing or having such memorable experiences to write about without your accommodations and understanding of my powerful obsession for this sport. I know that right now it might seem silly to many of you, but I promise that In a few years I’ll change your minds.
For now, I’d like to wish all of you a happy Fall, productive hunting season, and the best of luck on hooking up with just ONE more fall trout before the waters close. And don’t forget, October 1 also marks the start of another important season, Fly Tying!
Tight Lines (and loaded clips)
-Ben
Keep your eyes peeled for my photographic timeline of the 2009 season! Coming Soon!
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Living in PERFECT Harmony?
-A few reports of Salmon over the 20 inch Mark are starting to roll in from Northern Maine, as reportedly the water levels have dropped just enough to heat up the fishing. While not incredibly fast, word on the street is that this year so far local watersheds are sporting very large landlocks.
Muskie in the Saint John River
The most promising report of all comes from a particular section of the Fish River I’ve been worried about for some time due to the growing populations of Muskie along that stretch. It seems that regardless of the increasing threat, the Salmon populations are maintaining quality numbers comparable to those of the past 5 years. This is a promising sign, and one that might be easily explained. My hunch is that while the Fish River can easily support a healthy Muskie population, fast waters help keep most Muskie confined to the slow, more gradual waters of the Saint John River that they tend to prefer. Landlocked Salmon and Brook Trout are much better adapt to swimming in faster currents, giving them a competitive advantage over Muskie in the Fish River. While I think it’s silly to assume that Muskie don’t have an established presence in at least the lower portion of the Fish River, I do believe that conditions are such that will continue to allow Muskie, Landlocked Salmon, and even Brook trout to coexist in healthy populations.
Although to be completely honest, the thought of Muskie establishing themselves in any part of the Fish River makes me angry.
Back to the vice in preparation for my big trip back home this weekend!
See you on the River,
-Ben
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Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Happiness
..Just a few thoughts before I crash out and wake up at 4:30am to start my long journey back to school.
-Well, another weekend enjoying the comforts of home has come and gone. It’s been said by many that all good things come to an end, and this certainly applies to my weekend. I feel like knowing my Summer is going to be spent away from home has forced me to appreciate all the little things I took for granted in the past. Simple things like eating dinner with my parents, or spending holidays like Easter gathered with my family around a home cooked meal will be sorely missed. While I look forward to all that my summer away from home will have to offer, I’ll always be a county boy at heart, born and raised!
Where I practice my casting every night I'm not on the River. The Pond in my Yard.
I discovered a few things this weekend that I never really realized before. For instance, I now know that I suck a bowling. My girlfriend and my buddy made me look silly for a few hours on Saturday night, but somehow I still had a blast. It’s kind of like fly fishing for six hours and not even getting a rise, a certain simple joy just erases the need for anything other than what your experiencing in the current moment. I feel like this situation can easily be taken out of the context of bowling and applied to a number of different aspects in life. It explains why I get up every morning with the intention of writing about Fly Fishing, or why I put the Trout Bum Diaries in my father’s Netflix Quo so I could watch them over my Easter Weekend. (Thanks Dad) The bottom line is, it’s great to have a passion about something. With so many people losing their jobs, divorcing their spouses, and essentially giving up all hope, I feel like it’s important to have a positive outlook on life regardless of how terrible things might seem. Fly Fishing gives me this possitive outlook by providing me with an outlet for stress when nothing else seems to be working. This once seasonal release has become a year round savior for me with the addition of Fly Tying and Up’North Maine Fly Castings to my daily schedule. This way If I can’t be on the water, in one way or another I’m always connected to the sport on some level. It’s amazing to think that something so simple can brighten up almost any day.
So I guess what I’m trying to say is that sometimes the extra moral boost you might be looking for is right under your nose. Attack life for a different angle and think outside of the box instead of always taking the short conservative route. While getting upset and stressed is a normal part of life, be thankful for all the good things that often go unappreciated in your own life, and understand that out there somewhere thousands of people have it much worst than you ever have.
Tight Lines and Happy Times
-Ben
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Trouble Choosing the Perfect Fly Rod?
Thanks to the always informative and extremely helpful people at Midcurrent, fly fishermen now have a great guide for selecting a Fly Rod that Suites their needs.
So Many Choices
-With so many different options available for fly rods these days, it’s easy to get frustrated and feel hopeless when trying to choose the perfect one. While I’m still skeptical that such a rod exists (Helios owners Gasp now) there are a variety of options from various companies that will more than satisfy any fly fisherman. Most companies break down selecting a fly rod very simply and usually according to species. While this may be useful, it is important to take care when choosing the right rod for you. Consider the species of the fish you catch most frequently, but also look beyond species and into regional information, personal preference, and the type of fishing you prefer.
Lost yet? Head on over to Midcurrent to read their extensive guide : Choosing a Fly Fishing Rod.
Happy Castings, with whatever rod you choose!
-Ben
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As Winter Closes!
-A few more Big Ol’ Fish pictures have been turning up from this Winters past Ice Fishing season. Nice togue (Take Trout) seemed to be the theme this year, and the pictures below further reiterate that fact. Ben Bouchard and company have caught some of the nicest looking fish I’ve ever seen through the ice this season, and on a consistent basis. Here are a few pictures of their prized catches from the 2009 season that have earned the Up’North seal of approval. Big thanks goes out to Sherrie Ouellette for her Camera Skills!
Happy Castings,
-Ben
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The State of the Nation (As not even Lord, I mean President Obama can present it)
-Because I’m waiting on a few pictures via L.L.Bean for my “Spring Fishing Expo” story, I’ve decided it might be a good idea to give everyone an update on the state of Up’North, the upcoming open water fishing season, and life in general (not in any particular organized order).
*This past month has been crazy for me and the blog. I’ve seen a huge increase in visitors and an overall great reaction from many different people regarding Up’North’s content and general layout. I’m trying hard to establish a certain pattern of posts so my readers can learn to look forward to different days based on content. For example, Thursdays I feature different fly fishing artists, and Sundays I give you “Yet Another Reason Fly Fishing Is Better.” I feel like these features have been well received, and I find that I have attracted a good group of daily visitors who leave their fair share of comments and make things around the site interesting and entertaining. People from my home town, as far as Alaska, and as Influential as representatives and senior members of Orvis and L.L.Bean have taken time to read my work. It’s not always easy to find things to write about, so I really appreciate the feedback and friendly remarks.
The site has given me much to smile about since I created it at the end of February. I’ve met many people who have helped me a lot along the way through ideas, tips, and thoughtful comments. Some of the biggest players in the “Fly Fishing Blog” community have accepted me into their niche no questions asked, and have set the bar as far as quality and content are concerned. The content they post on their sites drives me to work harder and come up with new more innovative ways to attract readers. It’s a great feeling to visit the blog of a fellow writer to find that a link to my site has been added to their list of friends. I can’t express enough how much this support means to me. Even organizations like the Maine Department of Conservation have mentioned Up’North Maine Fly Castings in their publications, singing my praise. It’s humbling to think that people who play such an important role in my state’s conservation are inclined to take time out of their busy schedules to read what I have to say.
Finally, I’d like to thank personally the great people of L.L.Bean for spreading the word about Up’North and checking in on the site almost daily. Having always been a great fan of Bean, I’ve quickly started to realize that the people who make up this historic company are truly that of class and integrity. The support you have shown this Fly Fishin’ County Boy is more than appreciated, and I take great pride in all the help and kind words Mac and the rest of the crew have thrown my way. I can shoot down the non-believers firmly and say here today that L.L.Bean has been, and will continue to be first and foremost a “Maine Company” supporting “Maine Folk.”
So enough of the schmoozing and “official” banter, lets welcome Spring back from it’s long winter hiatus. April 1st is approaching quickly, and my dreams of casting a fly will soon be reality. I can say without a doubt that I’ve never looked forward to fly fishing season more than I do this year. I can only hope that balancing school and “Spring Fever” will be easier than I currently foresee. In anticipation, I have taken my fly tying to the next level and created a few monsters that I’m just itching to try out on the river. I tried tying from the step by step instructions in a few different books, but have realized that creating my own patterns and simply looking at existing flies in my box are a much more productive way of developing my own technique and style. I’m proud of the progress I’ve made as a tyer, and hope to show readers a few of my latest creation in an upcoming post. Stay Tuned!
That’s just about everything that’s gone on in my life regarding fly fishing and Up’North during the past Month. As for the months to come, look forward to some pretty drastic changes. While I can’t give an exact time line, soon the day will arrive when I decide to spread my wings and find a web host for the site. This will bring in new and interesting plug-ins, dramatic layout changes, tons of new content, and so much more. Look forward to decals, shirts, and even hats around the time summer approaches. For less than it takes to drink on a Friday night, you too can sport fancy Up’North gear that is sure to make the ladies drool. It’s only a matter of time! Until then, Good health, Cheers, and as always..
Happy Castings,
-Ben
Mornin Coffee: An Allagash History Lesson
-Good Morning all,
This morning I’d like to bring some attention to what is being regarded as one of the best documentary films in Maine’s History.
*The Allagash Wilderness Waterway – it has been a highway to the Native Americans; a vital corridor to Maine’s lumber business; a world-class canoe trip. The Allagash River’s uses have been as varied as its twists and turns. Its mystical hold on visitors is unlike that of no other place in Maine. Come discover the history of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway – from its creation in 1966 to the present – with those who live and work there. Northrunner explores the history of this gem of a park in the middle of a working forest. Learn why this place is so revered – and engenders so much passion. Patrick McGowan, Andrew Collar and Kyle Hockmeyer have created a beautiful portrait of this recreational treasure. They explore the sporting camp tradition of the Allagash region and meet some of the folks who call the river home.–Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands
-While I’ve yet to see this documentary, all signs seem to show that It offers a clear, accurate view of the history of the Allagash told through the people that have lived it, and are currently living it today. When I get the opportunity to view the film, I’ll be sure to post my thoughts on it in the form of review. The Allagash is also a HUGE part of fly fishing in Northern Maine, and offers more productive fishing waters that any other place in the state.
Read more about “Northrunner,” and find out how to get your copy HERE!
Happy Castings
-Ben
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No Place Like Home!
- Today I regrettably made the three hour drive from my lovely home in Fort Kent to my cramped apartment on the University of Maine Campus. While my two week vacation was much needed, another two weeks would have be graciously accepted. It’s difficult to get back into the swing of things in college when you’ve gotten so comfortable relaxing at home. It’s funny looking back on when I first started college versus now, I would have given anything to get away from Northern Maine back then. Now I’d give anything to get back. I guess getting out of the house made me appreciate the finer things in life, but it can be difficult when all those finer things are more easily found at home.
Anticipating the start of the open water fishing season on April 1st, I swapped my skis out for my fly fishing gear, loaded the truck, and set out for Orono. Completely blind to any decent fishing that might be available in the area, I’m hoping I can make good use of google maps (thanks J.P.) to find a few access points that might allow me to cast a line and kick off the 2009 season. I will no doubt migrate back to Aroostook county to enjoy the spring fishing with my father and friends, but something about fly fishing after class appeals to me much more this year than years past.
When I left the several feat of snow in the rear view mirror and started the long journey south, I wasn’t sure what to expect. A chilling 14 degrees, Fort Kent at the end of March is still very much in the dead of winter. A warm day during my spring break was when the thermometer hung around freezing and the dog didn’t refuse to go outside. I noticed the temperature slowly start to rise as I drove through several logging towns and finally reached the highway. By the time I reached Orono it was 51 degrees. A 37 degree temperature difference was just the beginning. Most of the snow that I left behind after mid-terms had melted away, leaving a messy mix of slush and gravel, and some muddy patches of grass. Spring in Central Maine seems to have landed weeks ago, a complete 180 from the weather patterns I had experienced in my past two weeks of vacation at home. Another Important observation that I made was that all rivers I passed through upon arriving at school were open and mostly free of ice. The water levels look great, so maybe April 1st will be an interesting day after all!
It’s amazing how different the weather can be only three hours south in Maine. It seems as if the seasons start much later and end much earlier outside of northern Maine, a trend I have noticed in my 3 years of college. While I’m sure most people back home are just dying to get a taste of this warm spring weather, I find myself feeling almost annoyed with the high temperatures and sudden signs of winter’s demise. I guess I’ve just adopted the habit of gauging the rest of Maine by what I experience back home. I’m sorry,but spring starts in Mid-April, and snow does not fully melt until early June. This is almost always followed by some sort of destructive flooding. Yes, Fishing season is open on April 1, but good luck finding a body of water that isn’t still frozen. Mud season is a very real thing, so forget planning a trip to your favorite remote pond until well into May.
I propose new state boundaries be drawn due to the numerous differences between Northern Maine and it’s central/southern counterparts. My original thought was to give Aroostook county the new title of Maine while just donating the rest of the former state to New Hampshire. Then I started to think about it more and realized that the people from Mass. would probably get jealous because they were being left out. Seeing as how they own 98% of southern Maine anyway, I figure they can have the entire area from Portland South. Most people who live in Portland probably wouldn’t mind because their fake Boston accents wouldn’t be considered fake anymore.
So let’s recap:
- Aroostook county alone is now called Maine
- Portland South goes to Massachusetts in exchange for the Redsox (Fair Trade eh?)
- Central/Eastern/Western Maine all go to New Hampshire.
- The New Capital of Maine is now Soldier Pond.
- The state bird is replaced by a new state fish, the Brook Trout
While all these changes would admittedly make me smile, I realize that part of what makes Maine such a great state is it’s diversity and ever changing climate. I’ve enjoyed many days outside of Aroostook county, but at the end of the day my mind is always drawn back to my home. While I respect every custom and diverse culture this state has to offer, I stand by my claims that Aroostook County has been and will always continue to be the “real” Maine. No room for debate, it’s just the truth.
Happy Castings
-Ben
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19th Annual L.L.Bean Spring Fishing Expo
The 19th Annual Spring Fishing Expo at L.L.Bean is right around the corner, and this year looks to be as promising as ever. Head on down to the Freeport flagship store the weekend of March 21st for casting demos, fly tying competitions, tips from the pros, and so much more.
This will be my first year at the expo, and I can hardly wait. You can bet I’ll be spending a good part of the weekend brushing up on my tying skills and tightening my loops.
Get the full schedule of events HERE
See you somewhere between the flies and the waders
-Ben
24-7, 365: A Fly Fisherman's Thoughts on Winter, Water, and Life.
-Like most fishermen, the late winter weather has me down. Just when spring began to peak around the corner, the March wind blew it’s ass right back to April. Instead of dripping water, icicles now hang from all the gutters around the house. The driveway looks like a skating rink, and the dog refuses to go outside. As I sit contently at my fly tying vice filling my box for the upcoming spring, I can’t help but grimace every time I look out the window. My favorite rivers have frozen over once again, a sure sign that winter is not ready to depart just yet.
I haven’t always been this critical of winter, far from it. My high school years were spent skiing every chance I could get. While fly fishing was still a budding flower in those days, skiing to me was much more important. I would spend the spring, summer, and fall trying to figure out just how I could magically make winter appear. I was obsessed with dreams of skiing vacations, new gear, and fresh powder. Don’t get me wrong, skiing is still a huge part of my life, but much has changed. Looking back, I see many parallels between my obsession with fly fishing and what I had with skiing. The countless magazines I would read over and over, the endless stream of cash spent of gear, and the time spent actually partaking in each activity all have great similarities. Whats changed is the level of obsession.
Instead of simply looking at fly fishing websites like I did with skiing, I’ve created Up’North Maine Fly Castings to fill an obvious void during the off season. This allows me to write about the “sport” I love, get myself more involved with it’s inner workings, and also interact with fellow fly junkies. Fly fishing has also spawned another recent hobby of mine, Fly Tying. This provides me with another way to keep myself constantly immersed in fly fishing even through the dead of winter. I love the hackles and hurls and hooks and my cheap starter vice that never seems to hold my creations tight enough. I love unpacking and repacking my vest just because I enjoy looking at my vast accumulation of useless tools and other gear. And most importantly, I love spending my money on a hobby I took up to save money in the first place. But what I love the most is knowing that far beyond the years when skiing is no longer humanly possible for me, fly fishing will still have a huge place in my life. The long term picture I have of casting a fly is so vividly clear that It makes me long for retirement before I’ve even started my career. The many mediums that will undoubtedly make up my picturesque life in fly fishing are in my mind worth much more than any degree or fancy Italian suite. I’ll gladly trade dress pants for my lucky waders, or an expensive gold chain for my loaded fishing lanyard. You can keep that corporate office in Times Square, I’m content with my spot on the river bank in Aroostook County.
Wake me when the snow Melts,
-Ben
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Moffitt Angling V2
Three Flies, One Hook, MORE FISH. What is this? New Math?
*I seriously underestimated the popularity that Moffitt Angling was gaining in the fly fishing community. Less than 2 hours after my original post, Up’North had over 100 new hits and over 85% were directed towards my Moffitt article. To first clear up some confusion, the Moffitt system utilizes hookless flies. This revolutionary system presents fish with a more realistic fly immitation, while a barbless circle hook is pulled up and into the jaw of the fish after it strikes. It really is an amazing idea, and I’m loving the buzz it has created in recent weeks.
Well, the Moffitt boys are at it again. In the May 2009 issue of Fly Fisherman, Moffitt angling has three different ads that all have one thing in common, complete confidence in their product.
To further spark my interest, one article explains how three flies can be used with one hook. Personally, I feel like three flies defeats the purpose. The beauty of fly fishing for me is selecting the right fly to “match the hatch.” I cast a fly because I enjoy being in nature free of stress, not because I feel a sudden urge to catch tons of fish. It takes real skill to pick the right fly, cast it in the proper location, and go through the motions of creating” life-like” action. I’m wondering what the rest of the Up’North community thinks about this. Is Moffitt Angling on to something, or is this exciting new technology being created for all the wrong reasons?
Speak your mind.
-Ben
View the original article HERE!
The Fly-Tying Bible
*So I just received my copy of Peter Gathercole’s “Fly-Tying Bible” And I must say I’m impressed. Over 100 Trout and Salmon Flies with step by step color photos and instructions on how to tie them. It really is everything I could have expected and more. Tons of proven patterns I’ve used for years along with some new ones I can’t wait to try. Best part of all? It goes for just over $16 at Amazon. What a great buy.
Check it out! Get your copy HERE!
Moffit Angling, Fly Fishing's Future?
“The Fly was Invented Hundreds of Years Ago, Seems like a redesign was a little overdue.”
That’s the slogan that headlines the Moffitt Angling ad in the March 2009 installment of Fly Fisherman magazine. While most Fly Fisherman will immediately stomp this slogan in the dirt and proclaim “Leave the Fly alone!” I can’t help but wonder if there is some truth to this statement.
Moffitt argues that with the increase of “Catch and Release” fishing, this system makes it possible to release most fish without handling them or even taking them out of the water. It utilizes a barbless circle hook that they claim holds fast during the most violent fights, but is still simple to remove. It also reduces fish mortality by keeping the hook on the outside of the fishes mouth, away from vital areas like the gills. See a short tutorial on how the system works below. If you still find yourself scratching your head in confusion, head on over to MOFFITT’S SITE to learn more about this innovative system. My only question; How will the art of fly tying evolve to fit into this picture? Let’s hear some thoughts.
Help Redfish, Win Redington
Take a few seconds of your time, and you could end up saving an entire fishery . The Resident Redfish of North Carolina need your help. Sign a petition to ban the use of unattended Gill netting, and you could win a Spankin’ new Redington Titanium CDL reel. It’s a win win situation.
Do the right thing, whether you fish or not take 2 minutes out of your day to do something great. It’s refreshing, trust me.
Click here to sign the petition.
Official contest Rules
Big Money=Big Performance?
Lately I feel like fly fishing has gotten a little unrealistic.
As I flip through the pages of my countless fly fishing catalogs, I can’t help but notice countless rods, reels, and apparel for disgustingly expensive prices. You see them painted in the beautifully colored pages like trophies, just taunting you to pick up the phone and blow a half years pay. Honestly, while these companies preach new technologies, special editions, and any other number of bullshit sales pitches, I always wonder if you truly get what your paying for. Take the Helios rod for example. (Sorry Orvis, ILU) A 2 wt. 6 foot rod for $750? Really? Don’t get me wrong, Orvis makes quality stuff and will stand by it faithfully, but enough is enough. I consider myself an every day fly fisherman. I walk through the woods beating my fly rod off trees, rocks, and the ground. I drop it in the water, throw it in back of the truck, whatever. If I was using a big money rod, or a flashy, colorful, hand painted reel I don’t know how I would get to the water every day.It would probably go something like this:
- Wrap gear in newspaper and bubble wrap.
- Secure newspaper with rubber bands, add more newspaper/bubble wrap
- Carefully place gear into metal lock box filled with foam popcorn
- Call Helicopter and wait patiently in my bullet proof panic room
- Wait until police escort knocks on the door to the tune of “Eye of the Tiger.”
- Enlist the help of 6 secret service agents to “transport the package for loading”
- Contact coast guard to patrol the water I’m fishing
- Set up a 4 mile perimeter in all directions with snipers in the trees
I could go on, but you get the picture. Are we really getting what we pay for these days? I pick on Orvis, but there are many companies who seem to go out of their way to make their products unattainable by the average fisherman. Personally, I’m an L.L. Bean fan. Call it Maine Bias, I call it an outstanding warranty. Sure, other companies might have similar warranties, but few are as genuinely helpful and understanding as the people at Beans. I’ve sent back countless items for repair or replacement at no cost to myself. I’ve even received a new fly rod without sending a single piece of my broken one back. I’ll stick with what feels good, and right now that’s my Streamlight 6wt. Some call it an entry level rod, but I just call it a good feeling. If I’m catching fish and enjoying my time on the water, why change a good thing?
The proof is in the pudding. Try calling Orvis and telling them you threw away your Helios on accident and want a replacement.
Less Is More
**Well I’ve done it! I created a good thing just to turn around and take it away (Sorta)!
I have been monitoring the progress of the “Laugh of the Day” and “Grab Bag” pages on the site, and they have attracted a fair amount of interest over the past few days. Unfortunately, the pages are not serving the purpose I initially intended. In order to keep the content on my site readily available and fresh, I have decided to add the “Laugh of the Day” to the daily post section of my Blog. This means you as the reader can still enjoy a fresh, sometimes violent and degrading laugh every time you log in.
As for the “Grab Bag” section, while some might say I simply deleted it, (Which is 100% correct) I like to think of it more as a friendly merger. Unlike some mergers that seem to ruin a good thing (XM+SIRIUS anyone?) I feel like this merger will ultimately benefit you, the reader.In addition to these changes, new pages will begin to pop up in the next week, so stay tuned.
To not completely destroy all that I’ve worked so hard for, here are a few select pieces from the pages that we have lost because I don’t know what I’m doing. Enjoy!
**Call in sick and trick your boss into thinking your smart!
“Due to metabolic inability to cope with a recent shift change, I did not respond to External Stimuli, thereby remaining in a comatose condition.” (I Slept Through my Alarm)————>
**Life Supply of Rabbit Zonker Strips! 
Can't Find the Fish?
***With open water fishing just around the corner here in Maine, its never too late to book that weekend fishing trip. Maine offers a wealth of fly fishing opportunities, but if you don’t know the area, things can get tricky. Luckily, I have your back.
Freshly added and available for your viewing enjoyment come two of the most acclaimed guide services Maine has to offer.
Libby Camps, 2007′s Orvis lodge of the year, offers a variety of experiences for beginners and novice angles alike. Take a look at their website, its full of pictures and other useful info. If your feeling adventurous, they also offer trips to Labrador. For more info on Maine fishing packages, click here!
Tracewski Fishing Adventures is another great choice if you hope to snag a few trophy Brook trout that Maine has become famous for. They also offer a wide variety of fishing packages for anglers of any skill level, and bring a vast array of fishing knowledge and skills to the table. Browse the website and check out some of the pictures!
Last of a Dying Breed
Where have all the anglers gone?
A question any serious fly fisherman has probably pondered on more than one occasion during these past few years. Maybe you think its a good thing, less yuppies poaching your favorite holes, more peace a serenity for you on the water. But are we forgetting something? While I cast a fly alone (which is almost every time I go fishing lately) a few quick questions almost always come to mind. The obvious one: Where the hell are all the fish? And a slightly less obvious but more important question: Will future generations see the importance of their environmental surroundings? Sadly, I feel like the cut and dry answer to this question for a majority of upcoming generations is no. With our world constantly changing, the same new technologies that have given us more affective gear have also given the youth of today more reasons to stay home. Why go out on the river when Nintendo WII can bring the fishing to you? Why take a drive through the woods If the Discovery Channel is broadcasting Nature programs in HD, with a 100% chance of seeing wildlife? People have some really misplaced priorities lately, and if we don’t act now, they will ruin the sport that we’ve all grown to love. I’m not saying technology is a bad thing, but wheres the love for the simple things in life? When does one decide to turn the TV off and take to the river? The sad truth of the matter is that many of our younger generations see fly fishing as a sport enjoyed by their grandfathers, with an almost non-existent excitement level. While some of us know this couldn’t be further from the truth, what are we actually doing to change the minds of these non-believers? Some, magazines and film companies like This Is Fly , Fly Boys Fishing, and Felt Soul Media are doing a great job catering to younger crowds, showing the excitement and flair that catching a fish on a fly truly has to offer. They have it figured out, and have done a wealth of good attracting new people to sport. Still, much more must be done if we hope to pass our passion for fly fishing and the great outdoors on to future generations.
My question to you is where do we start? What can we do to promote fly fishing to younger generations, and where do you see it twenty years from now?
Spill your thoughts on the canvas below.
-Ben
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