For a new perspective...

This is a test to find out if everything really is better with bacon.

Click on the link below to try Minion Flyfishing with, you got it, bacon!

http://bacolicio.us/http://minionflyfishing.blogspot.com

REMEMBER, Curli, it's only a picture. Don't try to lick the screen!

Courtesy of Buster Wants To Fish.

Why visit Yellowstone?

By Craig Matthews, broadcast on internet radio 12/17/08

http://www.askaboutflyfishing.com/#

Question

Coach,

I have begun tying I would to know some key flies to tie for next season on the West Branch. I was thinking maybe some stimulator's or maybe some Pink Comets.

Curli

What Up for Dec. 27th?

Will I need a flyrod or a flintlock?

Will I be traveling to Bear Lake or Bellefonte?

Will I be drinking Beer or Basil Hayden?

These are just a few of the questions inquiring minds want to know...

It is officially Fly Tying season...

Well the weather outside is downright depressing, what with the unifishable moisture accumulating all around.



Time to dust off the old vise, dig up the various materials and commence with makin' some serious fish cathingest temptations of the old steel and feather.


Soon you'll have trimmings of fur, feather and strange synthetic stuffs strewn all around on the nearby carpet and furnishings.

You and and yours will start to find the lost hooks that disappeared off the desk. Unfortunately you'll find them with your various feets and other body parts.

When the initial flurry of creativity has subsided, you'll be forced to look for other sources of inspiration, jrink and such works for some...

Thus inspired, you will no doubt create incredible feats of fly tying awesomeness. These beauties will be sure to work in that certain secret run on the river of note not to be named. Hatch?, who needs a hatch when you're fishing with babies like these? The trouts and basses will be shanking each other in the back for the priveledge of tasting these bestest of flies.

May your tying sessions be fruitful and the children of your vise be more than can be counted.

Last but not least, remember the incredibly good karma that results from sharing with your friends.

Happy Holidays!

New Fishing License Fees in NY

This just in,

NY State wants extra $10 from trout anglers
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
By David Figura
Outdoors editor @ Syracuse.com

Trout and salmon anglers next year will have to pay an extra $10 for a special trout/salmon stamp to enjoy their sport under the proposed budget released Tuesday by Gov. David Paterson.
That's on top of their $19 general fishing license.
The governor's budget also includes a new $19 marine fishing license fee for saltwater anglers, but it's the trout/salmon stamp that should catch the attention of Central New York sportsmen and women.

NY Governor David Paterson

The DEC's slice of Paterson's budget reflects $91.8 million in cuts from the department's current $1.17 billion in expenditures. A big chunk of that would come from a proposed $50 million reduction in the state's Environmental Protection Fund, which is dedicated to paying for environmental initiatives.

The governor's budget includes department wide cuts of 10 percent. Those cuts include the dropping of 240 positions "through implementation of a hiring freeze and general attrition."
Apart from the trout/salmon stamp and the new marine fishing license, there were no other new fees announced for outdoor-sports enthusiasts.

Analysis: NY has a strage way of showing support for its outstanding fishing and hunting opportunities. Despite the revenue and recreational value of these resources NY seems to focus all efforts on appeasing the small island portion at the lower southeast corner of the state. Apparently, if something is not good for The City it is no good for New York State. A dramatically cut NYDEC will no doubt lose any influence it had in determining a favorable outcome to the "water war" conflict ongoing in the Delaware River watershed.

Johno's X-mas Wishlist

Outdoor Research's Overlord Gloves...
Specially requested review:

At a mere 130 smackeroos these gloves must be something truly special.
Purposed for technical weapons handling during patrol and combat operations, these smart looking gloves are made from leather and stretch Nomex. This construction offers both protection from flash fires and the fine dexterity required for technical operations scenarios.
The incorporation of digital leather knuckles insures that your phlanges are properly protected when laying the smackdown on adversaries. An integrated wrist stirrup provides additional support while allowing full motion. Proudly made in the USA

At best these are some sweet looking gloves. Their best features, however, are not designed for the hardships normally encountered during approved Minion activities, unless another flying monkey flaming poo fight is on the agenda.

Recommendation: Approved for holiday gift giving, for the tactical afficionado who has everything else.

Fishing Reel Flask

Just what you always needed, a flask for partaking in a wee dram, that looks just like a fishing fly fishing reel. The perfection is the supreme example of shock and awe.
Avaiable at: http://www.gifts4fishing.com/English-Pewter/c45/p511/Fishing-Reel-Flask/product_info.html

Recommendation: THE gift for the angler who has everything.

Under Armour Sponsorship DENIED!

After laboring under a strict deadline and duress, the request to Under Armour for sponsorship of the 2009 Minion Trout Assault Weekend has been officially denied.
Here's the REJECTION letter verbatim:

Dear Coach:
We wanted to take the time to thank you for your sponsorship request and your interest in Under Armour. Due to the volume of requests that we receive and our limited sponsorship budget, we are forced to be very selective in the sponsorship process.We do recognize the value of your request as well as the opportunities that come with it. However, at this time we are unable to accommodate your needs.We wish you the best of luck with your upcoming efforts and events. Thank you again for your interest and best wishes.Sincerely,Under Armour Sponsorship/Corporate Giving Division

Any other suggestions for sponsors?

The Steelie Rod You Always Wanted

Only $265 at Whitakers

ORVIS - TLS Power Matrix 10' 7-wt. Tip Flex 4 PieceExtra length with mid-flex power and touch make this an ideal travel rod.-Woven graphite reel insert, anodized aluminum hardware. -High-strain, high-impact graphite for power and accuracy. -New thermoplastic-enriched thermoset-resin/scrim matrix (same as T3) for power and durability. -Proven TLS compound tapers. -Durable aluminum oxide stripping guide, chrome snake guides and tip top.-Durable protective finish. -AA grade cork grip. -Hard case covered in high denier nylon with nylon-lined internal dividers. -Made in Manchester, Vermont. -25-Year Guarantee.

River View House

Found this on YOUTUBE today...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZ2X702Yie4

This is the place Nori & I stayed at this summer in Craig, MT
We stayed in the lower level.

Too cool...

A Handy Assist for Tactical Smokeless Tobacco

The Blade-Tech Tactical Can Pouch!

For the dipper who has everything.

Very handy for those who "lose" their tin on a regular basis.

On sale now @ 20% off @ http://www.blade-tech.com/TCP-Tactical-Can-Pouch-pr-1156.html#product_images

Recommendation: holiday gift approved.

Sweeeeet Softshell...

Before committing to a new Patagonia or North Face shell check out the high speed, low drag outerwear at TAD Gear.

This is their "Robin Hoodie."

The TAD product description:
The Robin Hoodie is another style in our popular and growing "Street Discreet" product line. This style has a great cut for every day wear around town, and the sharp looks of fine men's designer wear. However, unlike most other brands, our pieces perform as great as they look.
We use the finest technical performance fabrics and core outdoor construction to maximize the versatility and usability of the SoftShell Robin Hoodie. The 2L Sharkskin is a classic weight for cooler temps , high breathability, and overall every day comfort around town or a walk thru the woods. Water resistant, wind proof outer shell with DWR, and backed with soft next to skin technical poly fleece. As most of our outerwear pieces, we feature numerous useful pockets for all of our modern personal accessories from iPods to cell phones. When you see this jacket in person for the first time take a close look at the fine subtle details; invisible stitched pockets, roomy hood, high neck integrated collar, and more. Without our Velcro loop swatches on the sleeves, the look of our Robin Hoodie series is decidedly more refined, yet fully capable. The Sharkskin Softshell has a great drape and body, the fit is tailored, yet allows for CCW without obvious printing, and enhances any outfit you wear it with.

Find it at: http://tadgear.com/x-treme%20gear/apparel%20main/robin_hoodie_ss.htm

Recommendation: holiday gift approved.

Survival Bracelet

In case of emergency unravel to access up to 20 feet of paracord.

This item while very stylish, would be extremely useful for tying up drunken Johno just before he starts threatening to start a knife fight.

See it at Survival Straps http://www.survivalstraps.com/survivalbracelets.html

Approved for Christmas gift giving!

Vally Forge Convention Center Gun Show

December 20 - 22

VALLEY FORGE GUN SHOW
Valley Forge Gun Collectors

A gun show in the Truest American Tradition. Buy - Sell - Trade, Modern and Antique firearms, ammunition, military surplus, and much more. Free parking, Free appraisals.

610-975-0877

www.valleyforgegunshow.com

Show Dates and Times:
12/19 (Friday) - 4pm to 8pm
12/20 (Saturday) - 9am to 5pm
12/21 (Sunday) - 9am to 4pm

Admission cost: Adults - $9 Children under 12 - Free

This Is Fly Issue 13 is out!

This Is Fly Issue 13...

Make sure you launch the mix tape of unusual Christmas music.

Check out Stu's Orgasmic World Famous Fly Shop on page 23

http://www.stusflyshop.com/default.asp

The list of Chistmas gifts is also inspiring, you can get me number one and Nori wants number 11

Enjoy!

http://www.thisisfly.com/

Discovered at Glacier National Park...

Budweiser and/or Bud Light mixed with Clamato juice, Chelada.

It appears to be AB's translation of a traditional Mexican drink, ala beer with lime and salt. Chelada translates roughly to, "my cold beer." And it is in a tallboy can!
Couldn't resist urge to try! Opted for the Bud Light Chelada.
Transported back to motel room and experienced, very interesting.
Definitely not like a bloody mary, more like fizzy watered down Clamato juice.
Might have been a bit better with a shot or two of Tabasco, but none was at hand.

Recommendation: may accompany a breakfast burrito quite well and may suit some as "hair of the dog" for particularly rough morning afters. Other than that, you're on your own.
But then again, it is in a can...

The BIG one...

Unfortunately I have, ahem "responsibilities" this weekend.
I'll have to live through the Minions vicariously on this one.
Have fun!

At the Harrisburg Farm Show Complex...

February 7th thru 15th the one and only Sportsmans Show!
I'm up for a combo fishing / show trip in the H'burg area.
Curli's place for the meet?

http://www.sport.reedexpo.com/App/homepage.cfm?moduleid=1867&appname=100280

Black Friday Deal...

Ross Cimarron and Rhythm reels are on super-duper clearnace at...

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/

Get 'em while you can!

It's beginning to look alot like...

deer huntin' season in PA!
The guys from Jersey are startin' to show up,

the farmers are working overtime trying to protect their horses and livestock,

hunters are rootin' around in the back of their closets and resurrecting their good old Pennsylvania tuxedos,

and the local drinking establishments are rolling out the red carpet in a big way.

Don't you wish you were here?

Friday Bacon...

The most important key on any keyboard...

when you just need some of that savory awesomeness!

You all know of Stew's proclivity for assless chaps...

Stew has always been a fan of assless chaps, and when I saw this I couldn't help but give props.
Presenting assless waders!
It even kind of looks like one of Stew's "FRIENDS" from the truckstop who know him as "Truckstop McShaft."
FOUND @ Moldy Chum.com

The Fly Fishing Show

Garden State Convention Center, Somerset, NJ

January 23, 24, 25 2009

Show Hours: Fri 10 - 6; Sat 9 - 5:30; Sun 9 - 4:30

Admission: Adult: $15 for one day,

$25 for two-day pass,

$35 for three-day pass;

Children under 5 free, under 12: $2

Scouts under 16 in uniform: free

Uniformed Military: $10

Family Day Sunday two adults and one or more kids -$25

Don't worry, the little bit of New Jersey that you get on you won't burn too much or leave a permanent mark.

9 Hours After Friday Bacon!

Mmmm, I can smell the sweet delicious bacon frying as I type. Nothing beats Saturday morning bacon.

Update: The Coach Cave

Overlooking the compound... Touring the luxurious lower level...

Check out the new feces transfer module...

More Friday Bacon!

First select a nice bourbon and some oh so tasty bacon,
next cook the savory bacon in the usual manner, using great care to protect and preserve the delicious bacon grease.
introduce said bacon extract into a large glass vessel,

Add choice bourbon to same vessel and stir gingerly,

observe the marriage of the viscous bacon extract and bourbon while nibbling on the previously fried delicious bacon,

after cooling, remove grease chunks and strain bourbon through filter paper,

enjoy your newfound elixir, bacon flavored bourbon!

Found, The Royal Bacon Society!

www.royalbaconsociety.com

Many, many things bacon, including bacon flavored bourbon:

Friday Bacon!

I proudly introduce Curli's new zoot suit, the fabulous and magnificent bacon tuxedo.

Mmmmmm, bacon!

Everything you ever wanted to know about the WB

Click on the link below to access Chris Weamer's most excellent book: Flyfishing Guide To Upper Delaware River

http://books.google.ca/books?id=KUhNmll8aeQC&pg=PA31&lpg=PA31&dq=norbord&source=web&ots=wHFNP1THXC&sig=rmq_5TasU_wZgIruPt9Z6WngTlI&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=3&ct=result#PPP1,M1

More; When Bumperstickers Aren't Enough...

A rainbow for the forearm...

and an even more attractive one for the shoulder.

Who is next?

Holy Crap!

Where was this brute hiding when we were there?

Madison Brown Caught 10/28/2008

photos by Grizz

Measured 32 1/2" by 18 1/2"...the math says it's 13.9 poundsRod

Echo 9' 6wtFly

Bennet Stone (A.K.A Pat's Stone/A.K.A Rubber Legs)10-12lb Leader

The Story:

So many things were going through my mind.... I spotted the large fish holding in the tail end of the run. The first cast produced a swipe at my fly. The second cast I saw "jaws" swipe at it... a different fish? Must be. This was confusing... what size are these two fish? Perhaps the first fish I saw was not 20" but really 10" and the second fish is the 20 incher? Another cast produced...drum roll... nothing. I thought about the situation, then thought about it again. I have a sink-tip on and a large streamer, damn. I thought about switching colors, reels, lines, tippet, leader and a hundred other things. Thinking I was faced with a large 22+ fish I didn't want to blow it... If I would have know it was 32" I would have blown it for sure ; ) I left on the sink-tip, didn't bother with an indicator and tied on a SJ worm figuring it's a probable take. I cast up stream and set the drift....rejected. Sh#$! Now what, should I make another cast? Change the fly? I opened my box and grabbed a Bennett Stone (A.K.A Pat's Stone / A.K.A Rubber Legs). A good drift produced.... a spook? Sh#$!! Damn!! F*^@!!!! The spook turned out to be more of a move, slightly over and up to the left, I can see it holding. To hell with it, I made another cast and drifted it down. The fish nonchalantly moved its head slightly over, did it take it? am I tight? what happened?... I set the hook. Nothing happened. I pulled again felling resistance but nothing happened. Am I snagged? A good hard tug awoke the beast. I now realized that this 20+ inch fish might be a little bit bigger, because it was running up river at will. The fish stopped at a near by snag before turning around for a run downstream. As it ran past me I saw the actual size. I believe I yelled "help" out loud : ) Not really sure why but I remember thinking how am I going to land this thing by myself, but I managed. The fish tried to do everything you can think of to get free. I would love to tell you that the fish fought for an hour but it was around 5 minutes. When it came to hand I realized how big this fish really is. Grizz called it a "Trophy's Trophy, it's what trophy Trout want to grow up and be". We were both so happy to see such a beauty. Truly a humbling experience.... Truly a fairy tale.... Oh how I love the Rockies.

I was shaking uncontrollably for awhile. A million thoughts were going through my head. Coming back to Rocky Mountain Trout after a Salt Water stint I feel its finally come full circle. This fish is what I have been dreaming about my entire life, since I was a Kid... actually I think I was dreaming of a smaller version of this fish but this will surely do. I never thought it would happen and honestly, a part of me didn't want it to for fear that the search would end. I enjoy the search more than anything, its actually what drives my fishing, my vision, my life. The finding part is supposed to be small teasers luring you back again and again, never to end. This is a Trout of a lifetime. I was at a loss for words then and still am now.... I am so stoked and on the river I almost cried.

As the hole turns...

The house hole, new & improved, with walls...
The garage hole, with forms, ooohhhh...

The spectacular view from the hole, truly inspiring!