What are the best times to try and schedule a fishing expedition? When we talk about a fishing calendar, we aren’t referring to a printed date book that you can hang on your wall. We are talking about targeting and specifying the right times to fish and the right places to fish at.


The things you need to look at most when considering a fishing calendar is when the water will be at the right temperature that is prime for catching fish. Depending on the area you are looking at for your fishing trip will depend on the right time to go.

In some places like California, the fishing is pretty good year-round. While in other places such as Washington, you’ll want to avoid the water in the winter as the cold temperatures will stress the fish and they won’t be as plentiful.

Generally, the fishing calendar shows the best fishing in the spring and summer months. Early fall will also find some places showing good fishing as well. Almanacs can be helpful guides to guide you towards the best fishing times as can constant updating through Internet web sites.

Most places will give weekly, and sometimes daily, fishing reports on their websites. They can tell you where the fish are biting and where the best places are to cast your line. They generally keep these areas of their sites updated pretty regularly, so you can get quality reports just by looking at what others have to say.

Fish like warmer waters, although, there are other species that thrive in cold water such as salmon or steelhead. In general, warm water will attract more fish. However, if the water is too warm, the fish will be sluggish and will navigate to places where the water is cooler.

The fishing calendar used most often by experienced fishermen has been compiled over a period of time. They spend a considerable amount of effort to estimate where and when the best fishing will occur. Then they share it with others. That’s one of the best parts of fishing – the camaraderie and sharing that can come about with a love of the sport.

You can compile your own fishing calendar with a little time and effort. Just do your homework and keep copious notes. When you see a trend, you’ll know it’s time to fish! Then be sure to help your fellow fishermen as they try to figure out what you already know. They’d do it for you!

Written on November 29th, 2008 , Fishing Tags:

Fly Rod ReelAre you looking for the perfect gift for the fly angler in your life? There are many options you have when finding a gift for the person who loves fly-fishing. Some of them can be expensive, but they do not have to be. You can choose a gift that your fly angler will love no matter what your budget is.

One option is to get them a new fly rod and reel. This is going to be one of the more expensive options as reels can run anywhere from $100 to $1,000. Buying a rod can be a very personal decision for people who love fly fishing, so if you?re going to go this route with your gift, you?ll need to do your research.

You could purchase a gift certificate to your local sporting goods or fishing store. This is a great choice for the fly angler as then they can pick out what they want or need. While some people feel gift certificates are impersonal, they can be a very welcome gift to the fly angler.

Consider getting a nice basket and filling it up with various fly-fishing supplies. You can stock it with various flies, lines, and tools that your fly angler can use during their fishing trips. If you are not sure what types of flies and such to stock the basket with, just ask the clerk at the store, or simply go hog wild and pick out a nice variety.

You can get other beautiful gifts as well. People who love fly-fishing have a natural love of the outdoors and everything dealing with fish. There are great selections of fly-fishing gifts including mugs, glasses,Fly Fishing Gifts shirts, and hats with fish pictures on them. These all make for a great affordable gift option.

Fly fishing apparel is just as important to the fly angler as the equipment they need. Fly fishing requires waders, vests, and boots. A good fly-fishing vest can make a very thoughtful gift. Most fly angler claim you can never have too much equipment. Even if your fly angler has a vest, a new one might be just the ticket for a good gift.

When giving a fly-fishing gift, use your imagination. There are all sorts of great gift ideas. Most of these will please even the most experienced fly angler. Ask him or her, what they are wishing for and then fill that wish. You have many options. When giving a gift, it is the thought that counts, of course, but when you consider all that is involved in the sport of fly-fishing, you are sure to find a gift that they appreciate!

Life Preserver PFD Wine Bottle Gift Cover Life Preserver PFD Wine Bottle Gift Cover
$9.95

Life Preserver PFD Wine Bottle Gift Cover is a fun nautical themed wine bottle cover, perfect for giving wine away at beach parties. Life preserver fits perfectly around your favorite bottle of wine! Jacket Features a working clasp, just like the real thing! Perfect gift for that holiday party, boating enthusiast, or water lover! Measures 11" Tall and 6" wide Ships BRAND NEW with tags (wine not in...
Gone FishingTM Floating Multipurpose Knife - 10.375 Inches Not Only Will It Stay Afloat in Water, but Its Blade Is Great for Line Cutting, Scaling and Filleting! In Addition There's a Compass Conveniently Located in the Handle Gone FishingTM Floating Multipurpose Knife - 10.375 Inches Not Only Will It Stay Afloat in Water, but Its Blade Is Great for Line Cutting, Scaling and Filleting! In Addition There's a Compass Conveniently Located in the Handle
$10.95

The Gone FishingTM Floating Multipurpose Knife is extremely versatile. Not only will it stay afloat in water, but its blade is great for line cutting, scaling and filleting! In addition there's a compass conveniently located in the handle. No anglers should be without this amazing knife! Features include: Floats in water 5.625 inch blade Blade is great for line cutting, scaling and filleting Durab...
Sportsman Dream Knife Set - 7 Pc Stainless Steel This All in One Set Truly Is a Sportsman's Dream. You'll Be Able to Do It All From Baiting to Filleting to Sawing with This Complete Set of Outdoor Knives This Amazing Set Makes a Great Gift for Hunters and Fishermen Sportsman Dream Knife Set - 7 Pc Stainless Steel This All in One Set Truly Is a Sportsman's Dream. You'll Be Able to Do It All From Baiting to Filleting to Sawing with This Complete Set of Outdoor Knives This Amazing Set Makes a Great Gift for Hunters and Fishermen
$15.95

This all in one set truly is a Sportsman's Dream. You'll be able to do it all from baiting to filleting to sawing with this complete set of outdoor knives. This amazing set makes a great gift for hunters and fishermen. Features include: Stainless steel blades never need sharpening - never rust Adirondack Knife: ?Overall dimensions: 8.625x 1.625 x .625 inches ?Blade length: 3.875 inches ?Handle dim...
Bantam Kangaroo Utility Vest Stone XXX-Large Bantam Kangaroo Utility Vest Stone XXX-Large
$56.00

Made of soft 8 oz. cotton twill for comfort and durability. Featuring "more pockets than a herd of kangaroos" so your tools and gear are always close at hand. The two breast pockets have safety straps and a cell phone pocket. The front waist utility pockets are divided into 5 separate compartments. Two large hip pockets. Triple stitched seams, and no bottom seam pockets protect against rip ou...
William Joseph: Mag Series: Amp Chest Pack William Joseph: Mag Series: Amp Chest Pack
$69.95

Picture yourself standing in a river hip-deep in water, rod tucked under your arm trying to force open a jammed zipper.  The frustration mounts as you drop your rod in the water because of the battle you are waging with a fouled zipper.  Now picture yourself in the same situation as you casually reach down and pop open your pack with a simple pull of one hand.  Slide what you need o...
Carol Wilson Father's Day Card - Fishing Vest w/Lures and Flies Carol Wilson Father's Day Card - Fishing Vest w/Lures and Flies
$4.95

Beautifully Embossed Die Cut 5" x 7" Greeting Card With Envelope....

Written on November 28th, 2008 , Fly Fishing Tags:

When you are taking up fly-fishing, you will want to get a good pair of waders as part of your gear. Waders allow you to traverse waters and reach places you cannot from the shore. Fly anglers spend a lot of time on the water, but most of the time it is IN the water. You will want to keep warm and dry while you are fishing.

Chest WaddersYou do have some choices when considering what type of waders you will want to buy. There are two different types of waders: those that come with built-in boots and those without. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the choice is purely a personal one as to which way you will want to go.

Waders with built-in boots are great for ease and convenience. You do not have to worry about buying a pair of fishing boots and staying dry is just about guaranteed unless you get a leak. The boot portion of the waders should fit you comfortably and you should be able to move about easily while wearing them. They tend to be heavier than stocking foot waders and there is not as much ankle support, but they are easy on and easy off which is quite convenient.

Waist High WadersStocking foot waders, end in a rubber sock. You will need to buy a pair of wading boots to go over the top of the sock. They are a little more difficult to put on, but you will get lots of foot support as you walk over slippery river rocks. The boots that you choose to go with these waders should not fit as closely as a hiking boot, but they should give you good ankle support and have stiff soles.

You have a couple of options when deciding how high you want the waders to go. You can choose the ones that come to your waist or ones that come up to your chest. Chest waders are much more versatile because you can wear them in any depth of water. Waist waders are for more shallow water. There are also hip boots that are separate and come to your hips. These are the less practical choice of waders for fly-fishing you plan to fish in deep water.

You may want to add a wading belt to keep your waders from filling with water should you slip and go into the water. Elastic straps used to hold the waders up are a more practical choice than the webbed straps. They are more comfortable and allow you more room for movement.

New Simms BackMagic fly fishing Wading Belt---L--- FREE US SHIPPING New Simms BackMagic fly fishing Wading Belt---L--- FREE US SHIPPING
$99.00

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New Simms BackMagic fly fishing Wading Belt---S--- FREE US SHIPPING New Simms BackMagic fly fishing Wading Belt---S--- FREE US SHIPPING
$99.00

Shimano Wading Belt Shimano Wading Belt
$30.00

A wading belt that is also a spinning casting & fly ROD CASE good for harley A wading belt that is also a spinning casting & fly ROD CASE good for harley
$19.99

Simms BackMagic Wading Belt Medium Simms BackMagic Wading Belt Medium
$99.95

The waders should not be skintight. You will want some room to move around inside them, but not too much! If you will be fishing in cold weather, you will want to wear some layers underneath, so try them on with clothes and be sure you have enough room to move about comfortably.

It is a good idea to at least think about a good vest when purchasing a pair of waders. when steelhead fishing the water tempature is usually only a few degrees above freezing and a good vest will help to keep your core tempature up. Now if you are fishing in the summer heat the cool water will just help to cool you off and can be quite enjoyable.

Fly fishing waders are an important part of your fishing gear. Prices will range anywhere from $100 up to $600. Use caution, too, if you are thinking of buying used fly-fishing waders. Be sure they do not leak and are exactly what you are looking for in a pair of waders.

New Zealand Fishermen Photo Mugs New Zealand Fishermen Photo Mugs

Two New Zealand trout fishermen in waders, one holding a fishing rod, the other harpooning the catch. ....
30 Steel Toe Rubber Hip Boots, Size 13 30 Steel Toe Rubber Hip Boots, Size 13
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30" Hip Boot made from premium grade rubber Heavy duck lining Steel toe Cushion insole multi -ribbed sole steel shank heavy cleated outsole 100% waterproof Meets ANSI standards Resistant to: Salt water, Solvents, Alkalis, Blood, Ozone, Grease, Tar, Gasoline and Oils Perfect for nearly all industries: Construction, Farming, Fishing, Food processors, Manufacturers...
Wallmonkeys Peel and Stick Wall Decals - Flyfisher - Removable Graphic Wallmonkeys Peel and Stick Wall Decals - Flyfisher - Removable Graphic

WallMonkeys wall graphics are printed on the highest quality re-positionable, self-adhesive fabric paper. Each order is printed in-house and on-demand. WallMonkeys uses premium materials & state-of-the-art production technologies. Our white fabric material is superior to vinyl decals. You can literally see and feel the difference. Our wall graphics apply in minutes and won't damage your paint or l...
Wallmonkeys Peel and Stick Wall Decals - Fly Fishing - Removable Graphic Wallmonkeys Peel and Stick Wall Decals - Fly Fishing - Removable Graphic

WallMonkeys wall graphics are printed on the highest quality re-positionable, self-adhesive fabric paper. Each order is printed in-house and on-demand. WallMonkeys uses premium materials & state-of-the-art production technologies. Our white fabric material is superior to vinyl decals. You can literally see and feel the difference. Our wall graphics apply in minutes and won't damage your paint or l...
Tangled Fisherman Cake Topper Kit Tangled Fisherman Cake Topper Kit
$10.95

...
Proline Brush 20118 18 Width, Palmyra Fiber Floor Brush with Hardwood Block Proline Brush 20118 18 Width, Palmyra Fiber Floor Brush with Hardwood Block
$14.25

Hardwood block with two threaded handle holes. Handle sold separately. Coarse and heavy sweep. Natural palmyra fibers for sweeping heavy debris. 3-1/2" Trim bristles....

Written on November 27th, 2008 , Fly Fishing Tags:

An important piece of apparel you can have when you take up fly-fishing is a quality fishing vest. You have many choices when looking at fly-fishing vests, so you will want to choose carefully. It is important that your vest meet your needs, so consider your options before you run out and buy a fly-fishing vest.

All fly-fishing vests come with a variety of pockets in different shapes and sizes. You do not want one with so many pockets that your vest becomes overloaded. You will want enough pockets so you can carry the needed gear and yet still remain comfortable.

The vest should fit comfortably and you should have plenty of room to move around. The pockets should close with Velcro so you can have easy access to your supplies. When you choose your vest, make sure that you are able to wear layers underneath it and can still move around easily.

The fly-fishing vest should have a short waist because you will be wading in water. You do not want it to get wet, so if it falls just above your waist, it will stay dry and comfortable.

Consider what weather conditions will be like when you are fly-fishing. If you will be fishing mostly in the summertime, you may want to consider a mesh vest these well-ventilated fly-fishing vest help keep you cool in the summer heat. Cold weather fishing will require you to wear layers underneath, so pick one large enough to allow you to move about easily.

Vests come in a variety of colors. Many fly anglers choose a neutral brown, but you can also pick vests in colors like blue and orange. Because you will be out in the wilds, blending in is important. However if you are going to be fly-fishing while others may be hunting, keep in mind your safety. You will want to be visible to other anglers as well as hunters without scaring away the fish in the process.

Some vests come with a built-in life preserver. This may be something to consider if you will be fishing rough waters with strong currents. You never know when an accident will happen. A built-in floatation device may just save your life.

NEW AMBOYNA WOOD PIN HARDWOOD BURL TROUT FLY FISHING FLY TYING VEST HAT ART USA NEW AMBOYNA WOOD PIN HARDWOOD BURL TROUT FLY FISHING FLY TYING VEST HAT ART USA
$9.99

Vintage Psortfisher Fly Fishing Vest Sz S/M Vintage Psortfisher Fly Fishing Vest Sz S/M
$26.99

NEW MENS SMALL WOOLRICH CLASSIC DELUXE FISHING VEST BEAUTY!! NEW MENS SMALL WOOLRICH CLASSIC DELUXE FISHING VEST BEAUTY!!
$7.00

Columbia Fishing Vest Men's Size XL X LARGE Columbia Fishing Vest Men's Size XL X LARGE
$9.99

Orvis Storm Breaker Softshell Vest size XXL Fleece Lined Jacket Fishing Rain 2XL Orvis Storm Breaker Softshell Vest size XXL Fleece Lined Jacket Fishing Rain 2XL
$39.00

Columbia mens vest , outdoor ,hiking,fishing,camping , hunting Columbia mens vest , outdoor ,hiking,fishing,camping , hunting
$4.99

-CHRISTIAN THEME--Leather Motorcycle Biker Vest--FISH--WWJD--Size Medium -CHRISTIAN THEME--Leather Motorcycle Biker Vest--FISH--WWJD--Size Medium
$20.95

TIMBERLINE FLEECE VEST TIMBERLINE FLEECE VEST"MAINE DEPT OF FISH & WILDLIFE" SZ XXL
$8.99

Written on November 26th, 2008 , Fishing, Fly Fishing Tags:

As a fly-fishing angler you will soon realize, your fly rod is the second most important pieces of equipment.  The first most important piece of the puzzle is the gaining and storing of knowledge in the art of fly-fishing of course.  Selecting the right fly rod can be puzzling.  I hope this article will give you some direction into which fly rod is right for you. 

Fly rods come in various shapes and sizes, and which one you choose depends mainly on the type of fishing you plan on doing.

Fly fishing rods come rated in terms of the net weight they can handle (designated by nwt or just wt).  This means that if you are fishing waters for fish up to eight pounds, you should use an eight nwt rod.  Therefore, the higher the number, the bigger fish the rod is capable of handling.

Some rods are multi-rated like 8-10 nwt.  multi-rated rods are good because they can handle a variety of situations.  The trade off is you will give up some performance in the fly rod.  A multi-rated fly rod is good for the beginning fly anglers because of its ability to adapt to various fishing scenarios.

Fly Rods are made of three different materials:    Each type of material will give the fly rod certain handling characteristics and benefits.  

Fiberglass,

New Vintage South Bend Fiberglass Fly Rod / Brand New New Vintage South Bend Fiberglass Fly Rod / Brand New
$31.01

VINTAGE SPORT KING HOWALD FIBER GLASS FLY ROD MONTGOMERY WARD USA VINTAGE SPORT KING HOWALD FIBER GLASS FLY ROD MONTGOMERY WARD USA
$19.49

Fiberglass fly rod Heddon Pal #8357 Fiberglass fly rod Heddon Pal #8357
$70.00

Fiberglass fly rod Heddon Pal #8357 Fiberglass fly rod Heddon Pal #8357
$70.00



Graphite,

FLY FISHING ROD CUSTOM IM6 GRAPHITE 9' 2PC SALMON STEELHEAD FLY ROD+CUSTOM SACK FLY FISHING ROD CUSTOM IM6 GRAPHITE 9' 2PC SALMON STEELHEAD FLY ROD+CUSTOM SACK
$99.00

Custom built, St. Croix 8'6 Custom built, St. Croix 8'6", 6wt. Fly rod
$150.00

FLY FISHING ROD CUSTOM IM6 GRAPHITE 9' 2PC SALMON STEELHEAD FLY ROD+CUSTOM SACK FLY FISHING ROD CUSTOM IM6 GRAPHITE 9' 2PC SALMON STEELHEAD FLY ROD+CUSTOM SACK
$99.02

SAGE Euro style, Graphite IV, 6126-3 Spey Fly Rod, Excellent Condition SAGE Euro style, Graphite IV, 6126-3 Spey Fly Rod, Excellent Condition
$313.96



Bamboo.

VINTAGE BAMBOO 9 ft, 4 pc FRESH WATER FLY ROD VINTAGE BAMBOO 9 ft, 4 pc FRESH WATER FLY ROD
$34.00

Impregnated Orvis battenkill fly fishig  rod  1 tip bamboo rod no reel or line Impregnated Orvis battenkill fly fishig rod 1 tip bamboo rod no reel or line
$330.00

Antique Bamboo Fly Rod 10 Ft Very Old 3 PC Antique Bamboo Fly Rod 10 Ft Very Old 3 PC
$50.00

Montague Flash Bamboo Fly Rod with Perrine #50 Reel & Extra Tip - Vintage Montague Flash Bamboo Fly Rod with Perrine #50 Reel & Extra Tip - Vintage
$99.00

The length of your fly rod makes a difference as well depending on the type of fishing conditions you are fishing.  Fly rods less than 8 feet long are good for tight, narrow places and areas with overhanging trees.  Eight to nine foot rods are ideal for trout and bass fishing in open areas.  These longer rods will provide you with better casting distance.  Anything nine feet and over is for wide-open waters and those long distance casts.  The nine feet and above rods, work well for fishing from a float tube or drift boat.

Put some thought into your selection of a fly fishing rod.  While your fly rod is not the only piece of gear that matters it is the one piece of gear that can help you bring in a trophy fish or just another fish.  Think about what you want to accomplish on your fishing excursion and choose a rod that you help you attain your goal.

Written on November 24th, 2008 , Fly Fishing Rods Tags:

Spinning reels have long been the number one choice for the beginning angler as well as experienced anglers. They are easy to use, perform well, and if you are fishing light lures and bait, they are essential. A spinning reel will cast light lure as well as heavier lures and baits as well. There is not the fear associated with a spinning reel as with the dreaded birds nest that are so common for the beginning baitcasters. With the improvement to the modern spinning reels and their drag systems, you will find that a spinning reel is capable of handling almost all of your fishing needs.

From casting, a small 1/32 ounce jig for Bluegill to heaving a 1-ounce steelhead or salmon rig the spinning reel will complete the task repeatedly. A spinning reel today with a front spool adjustable drag system is as smooth and reliable as any other type of reel and they are easy to clean and maintain.

You do not need an expensive spinning reel to catch smaller species of fish; however, you should consider the following when making your purchase:

Size.
Your spinning reel should balance well with the rod you are using; other wise, casting will be a lot more work. As a rule, you will need a reel weighing about 7 or 8 ounces to balance with an ultra-light rod. A 10- or 11- ounce reel is a better choice for a medium- power rod.

A well-balanced rod should be balanced when held just in front of the reel seat.

Line capacity
Is not much of an issue while fishing for the smaller species of fish such as Bluegill, Crappy, Perch and such. However, you may need a high-capacity reel on large western streams and rivers where you are making longer casts for larger fish.

Drag.
When you are fishing for small to medium sized fish, the type of drag is not too important. However, when you hook a big steelhead or salmon, the last thing you want is a sticky drag. A good rule to keep in mind is a front drag is much smoother and more reliable than a rear drag. The drag system works much like disk brakes, the washers on a front drag exert pressure on a large, flat spool surface and this causes friction. The more pressure applied the more friction against the spool and the harder a fish has to pull in order for the drag to let out line. It is important to note here that you should never over tighten your drag for the weight of line you fish. One thing to keep in mind with this drag system is that if you are not taking in line when turning the handle stop turning the handle until you are able to take in line. If you keep turning the handle while not taking in line all you are doing is twisting your line. The next time you go to cast your line will jump of the spool like a coiled spring.

Shape of Spool.
For best casting performance, choose a reel with a wide, long spool. If the spool is too short and narrow, the line will come off in tight coils; this creates friction on the line guides and shortens your casting distance. Another drawback to a short, narrow spool is you have to re-spool more often to keep the line level near the spool’s lip. With a narrow spool, casting performance will suffer when you lose even a little line. To get the maximum casting distance with a spinning reel it is imperative that you keep the spool full. The line should be within an eighth of an inch or less of the spool’s lip. Make sure that you do not over fill the spool, as this will cause problems also.

Written on November 12th, 2008 , Reels Tags: ,

A spinning rod is probably one of the easier types of fishing rods to use. Spinning rods are one of the most commonly used rod types do to the fact they are so versatile. They make a great choice for some one just starting out. Should you be planning on fishing with light gear 1/32 to 1/4 ounce in weight they are what you need in order to cast these light lures.

A spinning outfit makes it possible to cast small spinners, baits, lures and other light “fishing gear” that are very difficult to cast with baitcasting gear if you could cast them at all. You can even use a spinning rod too fish with a fly if you like. All you need to do is attach a clear plastic casting bubble that you use for weight.

When selecting your spinning rod, consider these features:

•Material.
The best spinning rods are made of the same material as the best fly rods high-modulus graphite. There are some nice fiberglass models available if you are on a budget, however they are a little heavier. Not only does a high- modulus rod give you excellent casting performance, its lightweight allows you to cast with less effort. You will enjoy this if you plan to spend all day on the water.

•Length.
The tendency in spinning rod selection, as in fly-casting, is towards the longer rods. These longer rods are necessary if you are going to be making longer casts. On large western streams, anglers use spinning rods up to 9 feet long for casting their lures to the opposite bank. However, in most trout streams, long casts will be unnecessary; the average cast will be less than 25 feet. A long rod is simply not realistic on a narrow, brushy stream. An angler will do better with a 5-foot rod that is easier to maneuver under those conditions.

•Power.
An ultra-light to light spinning rod with 2- to 4-pound mono is ideal for casting lures weighing 1/32 to 1/4 ounce. They are an excellent choice for catching trout weighing up to 2 pounds. You will need a medium- power rod with 6- to 8-pound mono to handle heavier lures (1/4 to 5/8 ounce) and land the larger trout. For steelhead and salmon, you really should use a medium-heavy rod that can handle 10 to 20 pound line. Most all Rods have a recommend line size printed on the rod located just above the reel seat make sure this matches your intend use.

• Action.
For casting very light lures, you need a slow-action spinning rod. They flex over most of their length. A slow-action rod is best for casting tiny spinning lures because it loads well on the back cast. If your rod is too stiff, it will not flex, or load, so you will find yourself throwing the lure rather than letting the rod do most of the work for you. A medium-action rod (one that starts bending in the middle) will make the best all-around choice. They will allow you to cast most small lures and they give you a strong hook set along with added control when fighting heavy fish. The medium action rods also handle a wider variety of line sizes or weights as well.

Written on November 12th, 2008 , Rods Tags:

When you mention fly-fishing to people, many times they think you are fishing exclusively for trout. However, there are some amazing spots you can fly fish for trophy-sized bass as well. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass abound in rivers and lakes, so why not try your hand fly-fishing for bass.

Many experienced fly anglers report that bass fly-fishing can be extremely challenging as well as extremely satisfying. Bass have larger mouths than trout, so your choice of lures is much more diverse. They strike hard and fight strong, so when you are fly fishing for bass, expect to be exhilarated by the fight in these fish!

Experts suggest that you use a 6-7 weight rod, but if you are experienced at fighting fish, you can use a 4-5 weight rod. If you choose the smaller rod, you may have trouble casting the larger flies, so be aware of that. You can use a floating or a sinking line with a weight forward taper. You should have a 7½ to 9 foot leader tapered down to a 10-pound test.

Most bass are opportunistic feeders and will bite at anything. In general, however, flies for bass fishing are usually larger and influence a bigger bite. Try big muddler minnows, clousy minnows, wooly buggers, poppers, leech patterns, and crayfish patterns. Size 8 or 10 would be a little on the small side while size 2 or 1/0 would be a little too large, so opt for something in between. The grey, black, and brown patterns seem to be preferred by bass, as this is the natural colors of most of their prey.

Great bass fly-fishing can be found in various locations throughout the United States. In the northeastern United States, try the rivers and streams in the Adirondack Mountains such as the Mohawk or Black Rivers. There are also some prized bass in the Great Lakes region. Southern Ontario in Canada can also provide some great opportunities to catch trophy-sized bass. Do not forget the Western states as well there are many great lakes rivers and streams in the west where bass both large mouth and small mouth abound.

Largemouth bass live in shallow water habitats among reeds, water lilies, and other vegetation naturally found in the water. They are adapted to warm waters in the 80-degree range and are seldom found deeper than twenty feet down. They prefer clear waters with little or no current. They stay active year-round, but tend to stay near the bottom in the winter months. Early spring and mid-fall seem to be the best times for fly-fishing bass although with the right techniques they can be caught throughout the year.

Bass fly-fishing can be a great experience for both the beginning fly angler as well as those with a little more experience. Fly-fishing for bass requires a little bit of finesse and some resolve to make them bite. Stay with the fish and pull a whopper out of the water you can be proud of!

Written on November 11th, 2008 , Fly Fishing Tags: ,

Have you ever gone steelhead fishing with some one and had them catch fish all day long and you very seldom even get a hit? Do not feel alone if this has happened as I think that we all have been there at some point. I do have some simple tips that will help you turn the tide as to how often this happens though.

I remember years ago now when I first started to steelhead fish how frustrated I would become when my fishing partners were reeling in steelhead and all I could do was watch. I would be fishing right next to them, using the same bait, same lure, and casting to the same spot. The only thing I would hook was an occasional rock. Does this sound familiar, been there done that type of deal. I started to believe that they had some sort of secret bait and they were not telling me. They would even go as far as to set up my lure and bait just like theirs and still nothing.

Then one day while steelhead fishing with a good friend who has since past I decided to sit and watch to see just what the difference was. I watch for quite awhile and I still could not figure out what he was doing different then what I was doing. He would cast up stream just a little ahead of where he was standing, let the line hit bottom, reel in the slack line, and let his bait drift through the hole. I had done the same thing hundreds of times but could not get a hit. I guess I should mention that I did get a few but just not on a regular basis as he was doing.

I continued to watch for a little longer determined to figure this out. Then I noticed that the tip of his rod would bounce when his line hit a rock in the bottom of the river, and then be still for a little while before hitting another rock, which would make his rod tip bounce again. Suddenly the lights came on!! I was using more weight, my bait was actually dragging the bottom, and his was bouncing off the bottom. I was always told to keep your bait or lure on the bottom if you wanted to catch a steelhead. I took that to mean you actually had to stay on the bottom all the time.

Once I saw what was happening and experimenting with different weights and line weights. I got to where I would feel my line bounce of the bottom float a little ways and then bounce again; I too started to catch those elusive steelheads on a regular basis.

Seven Steelhead Fishing Tips

If you too are having trouble hooking into steelhead on a regular basis here are seven tips:

  1. Try reducing the amount of weight you use.
  2. Use as light of line as you are comfortable with.
  3. Try adjusting the length of your leader making it longer or shorter to get the right drift.
  4. In heavy currents try to use a smaller bait or lure.
  5. Keep your line tight so you feel the bottom it should feel like bounce pause, bounce pause. Not bounces, bounce, bounce! Do not cast upstream to far you will only snagged more often.
  6. If you are not hitting bottom in a drift add a little weight at a time until you get the right drift.
  7. If you just cannot seem to find the right, combinations for a good drift try drifting your lure from a slip bobber. You can adjust them so your lure or bait floats right in the strike zone.
Written on November 10th, 2008 , Steelhead Fishing Tags:

Sage Launch Series Fly Rod and Reel Outfit The Sage Company has been producing quality fly-fishing rods for many years. They offer quality, top of the line fly fishing rods, reels, and lines to the beginning and experienced fly angler. They take pride in the quality of their equipment producing rods and reels that many fly anglers use exclusively.

They design and test their hand built gear with one thought in mind: maximum fish ability. That term was coined by the company to represent the type of performance that will help you cast better, fish more effectively, and have more fun while fly fishing.

Their company offers the fly angler all sorts of advice and tips on how to select the right rod for you and what is important to look for in your fly-fishing equipment. Sage rods and reels have long been the choice of many fly anglers all over the world.

When you are just beginning to get interested in fly-fishing, it is easy to get frustrated at the amount of information you need to know. However, experienced fly anglers also feel those same frustrations. The experienced fly angler feel that provides them with the challenge and excitement that makes the sport so compelling.

As we have said, Sage rods are hand built which makes them quality products. They manufacture nine different series of rods in a variety of models and sizes for every fishing situation. They have medium to ultra fast action rods to suit many types of fly anglers.

Their new Z-Axis series of rods has breakthrough technology that is significantly stronger, lighter, and easier to cast. That makes this new line of rods great for beginners, and also experienced fly fishermen. They implement their exclusive Generation 5 technology that makes their rods unique.

When you buy a Sage fly fishing rod, you are getting a quality piece of fishing gear. But that quality Sage Launch Series Fly Rod and Reel Outfit doesn’t come cheap. Rods range in price from $400 to $700, but they do come with a guarantee. In addition, if anything happens to your rod, they offer a rod repair service.

Many sporting goods stores and specialty fishing shops carry Sage fly fishing rods, as do many online retailers. You can go to their website and click on the “Buy” link to find a retailer near you that carries their equipment.

Sage fly-fishing equipment is well known in the fly fishing world as a trusted manufacturer of valuable fly fishing gear. Check them out for the best in the sport!

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Written on November 9th, 2008 , Fishing, Fly Fishing Rods Tags:

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Steelhead Salmon and Trout Fishing

Information and products for your steelhead salmon and trout fishing