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FOR A FEW DOLLARS MORE
A couple of years ago I was fishing at Lee Valley Reservoir-one of a few
mountain lakes in Arizona that are
stocked with arctic grayling. A short distance away was a fly fisherman wearing
what was obviously new everything from head to toe. It was all from a major
clothing and equipment supplier that doesn’t cater to the budget minded.
When I saw him casting, I knew his rod was brand new as well. His casts
were hitting the water behind him nearly as often as in front. The way he was
flailing the water he had a better chance of beating a fish to death than
hooking one.
I was enjoying the day, catching and releasing grayling, when he asked
what I was catching them on. I told him it was a Chip’s Glitter Gitter and
then asked what he was using. “ It’s kind of hard to describe,”
he replied. “Let me take a look at it.” I waded
over to him. I couldn’t put a name to it. “What else do you have?” He then pulled out a
large shinny new fly box that was full of flies. He must have bought one
of each from the catalog or wherever
he got his outfit. I am guessing catalog because a reputable fly shop would have
offered some guidance in his selection of flies. “Will any of these work?” he asked. “Well,” I said, “it depends on
when and where you use them.” Pointing to a Hexagenia I told him, “Browns
just love this fly in June on Black Earth Creek.” “I don’t know where that is.” “Wisconsin.” I pointed to another
one of his flies. “ This Chernobyl Ant is really good for cutthroats on the
Green. “Wisconsin?” “Utah.” I figured by then I had made my point
and selected several flies that should do well in this area. This gentleman had
bought everything he could possible need except a few hours of instruction. Fly
fishing instruction is not hard to find. Local guides and fly shops can provide
the service or recommend someone who does.
In a couple of hours he could have learned basic casting techniques, some
knots for tying on leaders and flies, and received some guidance on flies and
fishing methods that usually catch fish in the area. Not everyone needs a Hex or
a Chernobyl Ant in their fly box but you do need flies that work where you will
be fishing. A couple of hours of instruction will cost about $60 and can make a difference between catching fish and just fishing. You don’t even have to own a fly rod to learn how to use one. The instructor will provide one for you.. |
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