What is Project Litterbug?

By

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July 13, 2020

Project Litterbug popped up on our social media feeds late last year, and since, we’ve been following along as they’ve grown and become increasingly more creative. Each fly is tied with litter found while fishing or beachcombing and most have gone on to catch a few fish themselves. We caught up with the team behind the account to ask them about how it began, how you can get involved, and what the future holds for Project Litterbug!

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A post shared by Project Litterbug (@project_litterbug) on Mar 26, 2020 at 1:47pm PDT

Flylords: What is the story of Project Litterbug?

Project Litterbug: The story behind Project Litterbug is a bit cliche, but regardless a basic “have a dream and pursue it” story. I grew up in Southwest Florida and moved to Southeast Georgia when I was 19. I was just getting into fly fishing and fly tying when I moved away from the Gulf Coast. Life and responsibilities overtook my hobbies and the fly fishing world fell to the wayside. However, after stumbling upon the Tailer Trash Fly Fishing podcast a couple of years ago, my interest was renewed and I picked up where I left off. I got the vise and thread back out and started tying up various patterns as well as learning new ones. Moreover, I began to wonder how I could challenge myself and give back to the community that I enjoyed so much being a part of. I was inspired by the Flybrary Project and various other concepts I found via Instagram. I thought about my passion for fishing and fly tying, as well as my strong pet peeve of litter. I loathe going to a waterway or the beach and seeing cigarette butts, soda cans, straws, plastic, etc. discarded carelessly and harming the very thing I enjoy. So I decided to combine the efforts to clean up the environment with a challenge to tie flies with litter that I pick up. And so Project Litterbug was born.

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A post shared by Project Litterbug (@project_litterbug) on Feb 8, 2020 at 12:31pm PST

Flylords: What has been your favorite Litterbug fly you’ve tied?

Project Litterbug: My favorite Litterbug fly that I have tied would probably have to be the “Straw Clouser” pattern, which is actually my logo. This was the first concept I created and the one fly I have caught several fish on. The color combinations are endless and the fly is relatively easy to tie.

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A post shared by Project Litterbug (@project_litterbug) on Mar 9, 2020 at 5:41pm PDT

Flylords: What types of litter you’ve found work best for tying?

Project Litterbug: I have learned during this process that some trash is better than others for use in fly tying. Certain materials such as paper, cardboard, and styrofoam are not very practical as they deteriorate when wet or are not very castable. Foil (like chip bags), string, ribbon, hard plastics, and other similar materials are more conducive for tying. I have also learned that it is difficult to make a fly entirely out of trash and limits my options for patterns. I have found that it is more practical and fun to tie patterns while simply incorporating a few pieces of trash into the tie, such as strips of mylar ribbon in lieu of flashabou or surfboard leashes for clouser bodies. This is also a stronger metaphor for my project; a beautiful fly pattern tainted by garbage. Just like the waterways I clean up.

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A post shared by Project Litterbug (@project_litterbug) on Mar 16, 2020 at 6:46am PDT

Flylords: Have you landed fish on any of your creations?

Project Litterbug: I have not been able to fish as much as I would like and try out my little experiments, but the few times I have been able to use them I have caught several fish on them. I have caught micro tarpon on the black straw clouser and bass on the chartreuse straw clouser. I have had hits and missed a few fish on various other patterns and look forward to more success stories in the future.

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A post shared by Project Litterbug (@project_litterbug) on Feb 28, 2020 at 6:05pm PST

Flylords: What’s next for Project Litterbug?

Project Litterbug: Honestly I have no idea. I really want to see this project take off. I mean who wouldn’t? My goal is to spread the message of simply cleaning up the areas you spend outdoors, whether it is your trash or not. I don’t think we need to bring a construction dumpster and make a whole chore out of it, but simply filling a 5-gallon bucket or canvas bag of trash each time you go out makes a world of difference. I have no interest in getting rich off this idea, but it would be really neat to see my flies being used by other more prolific anglers just so the message is spread to a larger audience and people may do their part in cleaning up our environment. I would also like to travel to different locations and target fish where I have never caught before while using my Project Litterbug flies. Again, not for clout, but to simply spread this important message all over the country and the world.

To learn more about Project Litterbug, check them out on Instagram, @project_litterbug!

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How to Make a DIY Dubbing Brush Maker

By

Grant Michaels

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July 12, 2020

As fly fishermen, we spend hours at the tying bench whipping up everything from dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. Simple nymphs and dry flies can usually be tied in under 10 minutes, but streamers tend to take significantly longer depending on the intricacy and detail. One way to reduce the amount of time spent on streamers is to create a dubbing brush. Dubbing brushes are a combination of blended colored dubbing fibers that are twisted into wire. These brushes are a fast and effective way to give life and add bulk to the body portion of your streamers. Typically, dubbing brushes are made on wooden dubbing brush tables, although other creative options are capable of being exercised. In this tips and tricks video of the week, Bozeman Creative shows us how to create a cheap yet effective DIY dubbing brush table.

Materials Needed:

A typical cutting board
A binder clip
A Cordless Drill
Wire snippers
Fly tying wire
Fly tying materials such as dubbing, flash, wax, etc. (all materials can be purchased here).

How to Create the Dubbing Brush Table:

Place your cutting board on a flat surface.
Attach your binder clip to the edge of the cutting board and remove the clasp on the bottom of the cutting board while keeping the top clasp attached.Af
Inset the detached clasp into your cordless drill and tighten like a drill bit (this will act as the twisting mechanism to make the brush)
Use the binder clip clasps to attach your wire to when twisting the brush.
After all of your materials are in place, wrap the wire around the drill clasp and begin slowly engaging the drill, twisting the dubbing brush. (Be sure to keep slightly tighter tension while twisting while keeping the drill raised off of the cutting board)
Use wire snippers to cut the dubbing brush free.
You’re all set to start using your brush to tie up so killer streamers!

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What is your Fly Fishing Stress Level?

By

Nick Boehme

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July 11, 2020

Stress is defined as “a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances.” We all experience stress, whether it be from work, relationships, or the everyday grind. We often turn to extracurricular activities and exercise to combat and relieve stress, things to take our mind off what’s bothering us.

Fly Fishing is a lot of people’s stress reducer. Being surrounded by the sounds and sights of nature can ease the mind and reduce our symptoms of stress. Sadly, some incidents occur during our fly fishing outing that can raise our stress levels, possibly to dangerous levels that could require medical attention. Below we will look at some of the common (and hopefully not so common) stress inducers of fly fishing. Add up the total number of points you get to see where you stand on the fly fishing stress scale, based on your most recent outing.

Losing a fish at the net due to your buddies incompetence 20 Pts

You have finally hooked into that elusive trophy brown that has been selectively rising for the past few hours to microscopic midges. A subtle slurp of your tiny dry starts the long battle of slowly bringing your fish in on 7x tippet. You call your friend over, repeatedly telling him he needs to net this fish and net it right. The fish starts to tire, and you slowly swing it around to your partner. His inexperience with the net drives him to lunge at the fish with such emotion and aggression, that it hits the brittle tippet, snapping it. The fish jumps for joy with your fly still in its mouth, as you’re body says “Quick release, how about that.”

Falling In The River 15 Pts

Everyone has fallen in at one time or another. It could be for a variety of reasons. A loose rock, chasing a fish down, or just plain no paying attention. This becomes especially stressful if it’s cold out, your waders fill up or you lose things out of your pocket.

Fish Flops Before Picture Is Taken 10 Pts

You have been fishing all day, barely touching a fish. You hook into a tank and it fights you every which way up and down the river. You eventually land it. Its a beauty, a near personal best. As you hand off your camera to your fishing partner and lift the fish out for a quick shot, the fish has one last burst of energy and flops back into the river. You frantically ask your friend if he got the shot, but a silent distraught shake of the head confirms your suspicions.

Dropping your expensive sunglasses 5 Pts

You just bought a brand new pair of Costas, Oakleys, or Smiths. You are astonished by how well you can see through the water and feel like you have some sort of x-ray vision. But you forgot one thing, your Chums. You feel something tickle your arm and you look down to see a mosquito making of a meal of you. Your quick reaction to demolish the skeeter somehow knocks your unsecured sunglasses off your face and down into the deep nymphing run.

Your buddy forgets the booze. 5 Pts

Jimmy had one job during the planning of this trip. Your setting up camp in the remote area of the wilderness, you request the whiskey to fill up the flask. Jimmy pulls the old, “I thought you were bringing that,” spiel, insisting it’s not his fault and friendship is more important. Your wrong Jimmy.

The spin guy next to you is catching more fish. 5 Pts

Nothing is wrong with spin fisherman, but we all have had the experience of fishing a nice stretch of water to ourselves, and a guy in hip waders and a bucket hat comes stomping out of the woods and starts throwing the 3 pronged trout death spinner right next to you. You might be having a slow day, but he immediately hooks up and exclaims, “Hey, the fish sure are biting today!”

Lose fly to a tree. 2 Pts

In some cases, this is pretty easy to do, especially on smaller rivers. Most of the time we acknowledge this happens because of our disregard for our surroundings, especially when targeting an active fish. Nevertheless, nobody is ever happy to donate their flies to the trees.

Lose fly to rock 1 PT

This is a common occurrence, especially for nymph fisherman. Although it does happen, it can be rather stressful, especially if you are paying a fly shop premium for your flies. If you manage to lose a dry fly on a rock, add 10 points.

Freshly tied knot pulling free. 1 PT

This especially applies to any of you slow knot tiers out there. You spend countless minutes perfecting your double bowline hitch blood knot, and when you pull it tight, it slips right out.

Missing a strike. 1PT

Pretty self-explanatory. You cast at a rising fish for what feels like an eternity, and when that one moment comes where the fish sips down your fly you pull it right out. Not too stressful, but enough to make the list. A few choice words and a couple of beers later, your back at it.

Scoring Guide:

0-10 Points – Average fisherman, Average day on the water

10-40 Points – Something’s been going wrong quite frequently, you are stressed but still try to relax

40-60 Points- You have escalated past the point of normal fly fishing stress. Your blood pressure is at an unsafe level and you are probably on the verge of freaking out and spending the night in the hospital or jail.

Article by Nick Boehme a.k.a. @trout_row is a fly angler and guide in Upstate New York, specializing in salmon, lake run brown trout and steelhead! Be sure to hit that follow button on his page!

Video of the Week: A Proper Occupation

By

Conner Grimes

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July 10, 2020

This week we take a look at the latest film from YETI. Featuring three of our favorite guides, we knew we were in for some good stories and some amazing fish catches.

Follow along as we hear from Alvin Dedeaux, JT Van Zant, and David Mangum, three legendary guides who have been friends since the 90s, as they embark on a trip of a lifetime.

Throwback Video of the Week: Cosmo

Video of the Week: EXODUS

Video of the Week: Bounce

Backcountry Fly Fishing Gear Guide

By

Evan Garda

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July 10, 2020

With summer comes the opportunity to find wild trout in high alpine lakes that have been sitting iced over for months. The trout found within are typically eager for an easy meal as food supplies in these waters tend to be scarce. In addition to numerous lakes, the opportunity for fishing pocket water on mountain streams should not be overlooked. Pocket water is often abundant in the streams flowing in and out of alpine lakes and can provide countless hours of fun with spooky fish in crystal clear water.

Clothing

Clothing is an essential aspect of high alpine and backcountry fly fishing. Temperatures at high altitudes can fluctuate drastically throughout the course of a day. Morning temperatures can be sub-freezing, even in the summer months, and reach highs in the 70s and 80s by mid-afternoon. This obviously creates a problem when you are trying to minimize the amount of gear that you carry while still being prepared for anything that Mother Nature throws at you.

Insulated Jacket

Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is a versatile layer for backcountry fly fishing and fits nicely under waders.

Hiking to an alpine lake or backcountry stream often requires an early start, if you want to miss the all-to-common afternoon thunderstorms that fall upon the high country throughout the summer months. This often means cool mornings where layers are required. I swear by my Patagonia Nano Puff jacket for a vast range of temperatures from the 30s to the high 60s. It’s lightweight and packs down to almost nothing, helping save space for other gear required for a day in the backcountry.

Rain Jacket

As mentioned above, afternoon thunderstorms are the norm at high altitudes and there’s no better way to be prepared than having a comfortable rain jacket. It’s important to find a jacket that you can wear over a wide range of temperatures so leaving room for layers certainly isn’t a bad idea (mine fits perfectly over my Nano Puff insulated jacket). I’ve worn Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L Jacket for a few years now and my only real complaint is that it can get sweaty in warmer temps, otherwise it has kept me dry in more than a few surprise rain and snowstorms.

Pants & Footwear

If you’ve read Get Wet: A Guide to Wet Wading here on the mag, you’ll know my choice of pants for outdoor activities are the Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Pants. They’re lightweight, incredibly fast-drying, and still provide enough protection to bushwhack if necessary. A sturdy pair of hiking shoes or boots are great for navigating a variety of terrain on your way to these remote fish. I have worn several different styles of Keen’s for going on 10 years and would recommend them as a great waterproof option. When the temps really start to rise, I’ll strap a pair of Teva sandals on my pack for stream crossings and wet wading.

Backcountry fish often make up for their lack of size with immense beauty.

Fly Fishing Gear

Fly Rod

Backcountry fly fishing enables an angler to use just about any rod from about a 0wt-5wt depending on the terrain. Small mountain streams typically contain smaller fish allowing ultralight rods to be used for dapping dry flies all day long. Many backcountry anglers will opt for fiberglass rods to enhance the fun of catching these smaller but incredibly beautiful wild fish. With that being said, a calm day on a high alpine lake is rare, often requiring a rod with more backbone to punch casts through a stiff breeze. A 3-5wt fly rod with a floating line should serve you well in just about any backcountry situation.

Fly Reel

Colorado LT Reel — Nothing like a lightweight Click and Pawl Reel Like the Ross Reels Colorado LT.

For backcountry fly fishing a click and pawl reel is the perfect setup. Instead of having a built-in drag system a click and pawl reel uses a clicker that ticks against the teeth of a gear placed on the spool, this creates a drag. Not only are these reels extremely fun to fish with smaller backcountry fish but they are also lightweight making them perfect for backcountry fly fishing. Specifically the Ross Reels Colorado LT Reel.

Fly Choice

The Chubby Chernobyl, PMX, Hippie Stomper, Elk Hair Caddis, and Parachute Adams are my high country staples.

Backcountry trout are often opportunistic feeders so you can keep your fly selections relatively simple. A few impressionistic flies are all you really need to fool these willing fish. Dry fly fishing opportunities are plentiful throughout the summer so being prepared for topwater action is key. Some of my personal favorites for backcountry streams and high alpine lakes include Parachute Adams in sz18-24 in BWO and PMD, Elk Hair Caddis in sz14-20, and all sorts of attractor patterns like the Chubby Chernobyl, Hippie Stomper, and PMX.

There will be times when going subsurface is necessary so an array of medium to small nymphs (16-22) will typically get the job done. Copper Johns, Zebra Midges, Rainbow Warriors, and a variety of emerger patterns are my go-to’s. Methods for fishing nymphs include dry droppers (particularly for mountain streams), under an indicator, and even stripping a single nymph on a slow retrieve can draw a strike in alpine lakes.

Technique

Take time to scan the water for trout cruising the shoreline. Photo by @nikkibrockwell

Backcountry and high alpine fly fishing provides an opportunity to get away from crowded tailwaters and freestones during the summer months. Be sure to take time to enjoy the many wonders that the wilderness has to offer. Upon arrival at alpine lakes, take a few moments to set up your gear and observe the water. Alpine lake trout will typically cruise the shorelines in a repetitive manner. The keen angler can figure out when and where to place a perfect dry fly by taking time to observe the trout’s feeding habits. Once you’ve figured out the pattern, lead the fish with a dry fly by several feet with a long leader (a 5x mono leader around 9-12 feet is a safe bet) and get ready!

In addition to alpine lakes, pocket water is abundant in high mountain streams due to the steep nature of the terrain. Dapping your fly near a plunge pool is likely to draw the attention of an opportunistic small stream trout. Often times you may only need a foot or two of fly line out of your guides. Watch your shadows and do your best to keep your rod from spooking these fish. I’ve spent countless hours on small streams with a massive grin on my face thanks to a bunch of 6” trout, eager to take any dry fly I throw their way.

Miscellaneous Gear

The next few items are great general backcountry supplies that will help ensure a fun and safe day. Maintaining a lightweight pack is a great goal but don’t sacrifice the essentials.

Pack

A waterproof pack or backpack is a great idea for backcountry adventures. Keeping spare layers of clothes and supplies dry is critical for when the temperatures drop.

Brands like Yeti, Simms, Rising, and Fishpond all have their own version of waterproof lumbar packs, slings, and backpacks designed with fly fishing in mind. I like a pack or bag with enough space to carry a day’s worth of food, water, layers, and the ability to carry a fly rod tube in one way or another. Hiking for miles with a built rod can be a real pain and you run the risk of breaking your rod in the process, so I’d recommend packing it in. I use the Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar pack with the Fishpond Lariat Gear Straps to fasten my rod tube.

The Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar and Fishpond Lariat gear straps are perfect for carrying a rod tube.

Maps

When entering the wilderness, it’s hard to come over-prepared. I highly recommend purchasing a topographical map, downloading the region you plan to explore on Google Maps (for offline access), or using the awesome digital topographical maps that National Geographic has made available. These are also great resources for locating backcountry lakes and streams in the first place! Letting someone know your plans (someone that you trust with the location of your favorite blue lines, of course) is never a bad idea in the event that an accident occurs.

Essentials

Lastly, a lighter, flint, TP, pocketknife, and all the usual first aid supplies should accompany you in the backcountry. A GPS system is a good idea if you plan to blaze your own trails. If you aren’t used to high elevations or will be taking a guest from lower altitudes to a high alpine lake, be considerate of altitude sickness. Purchasing a can of bottled oxygen has saved the day more than once for some of my visitors.

Finding Your Wilderness

If your favorite rivers and lakes are full of recreational boaters and floaters this time of the year, I’d highly recommend doing a bit of research and planning a high alpine adventure! Catching wild, beautiful trout is only half the fun of backcountry fly fishing. The hike, wilderness, and time away from crowded rivers should not be taken for granted. Put in the time to research locations near you and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Article by Evan Garda, he is on the Content Team here at Fly Lords. He can be found chasing trout throughout the west with his trusty fly rod. Check out his adventures at @evangarda.

6 Tips to be More Successful at Fishing High Alpine Lakes

Trout Above Treeline

Scared to Poop – An Alaskan Backcountry Story

By

Oliver Sutro

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July 10, 2020

Have you ever been scared to poop? Then you’ve never been here. A place so lawless and wild that it is a life-saving requirement to excuse yourself from breakfast with a loaded shotgun. Most people who have been attacked by bears recount a scenario where there is no time to even think. It all happens so fast that drawing a shotgun or bear spray is rarely an option.

I’ll be candid and tell you that this trip was expensive. We had to fly into the middle of nowhere, then hire a pilot to fly us further into the middle of nowhere. The float plane would have to be filled with gear we didn’t own and couldn’t afford, so that we could survive 10 days floating down a river in a place where you carry a shotgun to take a dump.

As a group of filmmakers, we spend an immense amount of time watching other people do cool stuff, both behind the camera and replayed thousands of times in editing software. It was our turn.

Sometimes taking life by the horns is tough to organize, scary and prohibitively expensive, but you won’t be complaining about any of that when you’re 100 miles from the nearest road floating down a river catching rainbow trout with mouse flies.

The fishing in Alaska is as good or better than anywhere I have ever been. Every summer, millions of salmon return from the ocean to the rivers. They are the lifeblood of everything around this remote stream. As we float through pools choked with salmon, it’s sad to think that at one time this was a common sight from California through Washington.

We came all this way to see what those places in the lower 48 might have looked like. There’s a sad but real thought in my head that the only reason we came here was to see this river before it suffered a familiar fate.

We collectively have traveled the world to film all kinds of wild places, but there was something about Alaska that felt slightly more wild than anywhere. None of us had headphones to check the audio, or one eye fixed to a camera monitor.

The tall grass of the tundra-like river bank stretches for miles, blowing back and forth in the wind, which is keeping the mosquitos away.

Our lives haven’t been this quiet for some time, I think to myself with my pants around my ankles. While it might be scary, this is the best poop I have taken all year.

Article and supporting photos from Oliver Sutro, be sure to check him out on Instagram, YouTube, and on the web.

Addtional photos from @colin_arisman and @tylerwr.

So you want to be a Fly Fishing Film Maker? Featuring Oliver Sutro

How to Stay Safe Fly Fishing in Bear Country

Johann Dupreez Auctions Original Artwork to Support Rewa Eco Lodge

By

Dan Zazworsky

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July 10, 2020

Our friend, Johan Du Preez (@johanndupreez_flyfishing) will be auctioning off this arapaima painting to the benefit of the Rewa Eco-Lodge in Guyana. The amazing community of Rewa has spent the last 20+ years protecting and preserving its natural resources through the Eco Lodge. The Indifly Foundation has been in partnership with Rewa for more than ten years now and together they have successfully turned the numbers of these incredible fish around.

To bid on the incredible piece, send Johann a message on his Instagram!

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A post shared by Johann Fly fishing Art (@johanndupreez_flyfishing) on Jul 9, 2020 at 4:21am PDT

Through sustainable fly fishing and science, the Arapaima population has been restored and the numbers are still growing. Not only do they now protect the Arapaima, but all the fish species are under protection. The Eco Lodge also offers wildlife safaris and through that, they are protecting the animals and birds of the region too. This place is a true example of how ecotourism can save and protect parts of our planet for future generations.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, all trips to the Eco Lodge have been canceled and they need your help. The proceeds of this auction will go towards the Eco Lodge to assist them during these trying times. If you want to help in another way, please go to the IIndifly Foundation website (www.indifly.org) or @indiflyfoundation on Instagram and donate to this worthy cause.

Check out our Featured Artist interview with Johan and a step-by-step trout drawing tutorial at the link below!

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How Alaskan Fly-fishers and Guides Feel about COVID-19

By

Tia Kelliher

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July 9, 2020

One of Alaska’s largest industries is tourism, and this summer it will be hit hard by COVID-19. With people weary of travel and nervous about what the future holds, it is consequently understandable that trips are being canceled. We decided to ask some local Alaskan guides and fly-fishers how they feel about the lack of tourists amidst Coronavirus.

How do you feel about fishing in Alaska this summer during the pandemic?

Billy Coulliette, Guide at Alaska Troutfitters

Fishing and guiding this season in Alaska has been a challenging affair, to say the least. Alaska travel restrictions have put a dampener on all outfitters/guides in the state, causing most to re-write their business models and operating procedures. Local support for small businesses is more important than ever now in our industry. The one great thing that has come from all of this is the support of local anglers and clients stepping up and booking trips during times of the season they normally would not. I can’t express how much we appreciate it and encourage everyone out there to support your local fly shops and guides if you can. There will be many challenges for us this season, but I feel this is the perfect time to hone your craft as a guide and really connect with your local waters and anglers.

Sierra Baldwin, Alaskan Fly-Fisher

Due to this pandemic, I believe it’s actually made the fishing quite busier in some ways! More locals are looking to get out and do something, so they fish. On the other hand, the guiding season has been much slower. Tourists are canceling their trips to Alaska this year, resulting in fewer trips for the guides. For people to be allowed to travel to Alaska, now all they need is a negative covid-19 result. For future outlook, it seems like the guide companies will be busier come July and August.

John Jinishian, Owner of Wild River Guides

This summer has been one for Alaska unlike any we have other seen. Generally, we discuss a multitude of “know unknowns” that could affect us in the field with our guide staff prior to the season and I can say a global pandemic wasn’t on that list, until now. Since early March we have been changing up our schedule for summer prep and planning for a multitude of different potential outcomes that involve different start dates and rivers. Many other float trip operators and lodges in our area have canceled their seasons but we have continued to delay our start dates and have held out hope to float our western Alaskan rivers for a few weeks. All of the native villages we would potentially pass through are close to any outside visitors and we had arranged alternatives to have river pickups via floatplane for a few of theses rivers.

Many hurdles have been present including a mandatory 14-day quarantine that is now in place through August 3rd for the town of Dillingham where we operate out of. The flight schedule for 2/3 airlines that provide service to the village has ceased and Alaska Airlines has not released a schedule past August 17th. At this point, even though our bush pilots are ready to fly, we may not be able to get our guests and guides in and out of the town. We operate raft based wilderness fly fishing expeditions so our ability to drop completely off the grid is unparalleled if we can get our guest into town.

As far as the fishing goes, we do think that we can operate safely but we would place travel guidelines in place for our guests to make sure everyone is traveling safely and not putting other participants at risk. We operate 50-100 miles away from the nearest paved road in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge on fisheries that are truly world-class. While the scenario still exists that we may not be able to operate there are good things that could come from this. Sure, we will take a massive financial hit but the fisheries and especially the resident species (Rainbows, Grayling, Arctic Char, Lake Trout) could benefit greatly from a low-pressure year.

We have realized that much of this season is out of our control and all we can do is worry about the things we can control. Hopefully, we will be enjoying Alaska with our guests in August but if we cannot this year, we hope that the fisheries maintain or improve on the strength we have seen over the last decade. We completely support the continued sustainable management of the fishery but the state of Alaska for substance resident anglers and commercial anglers and the sportfishing community and hope that everyone will be able to operate in some capacity. We also have not won the fight against the Pebble Mine and we need to continue to support the opposition to the mine now more than ever to protect this wild place many of us are lucky to call home for part or all of the year.

April Harbison, Alaskan Fly-Fisher

I think this year is definitely a first for everyone being that there is a pandemic. I’ve noticed it’s been either really hit or miss with guiding & lodges. Some are still up and running, taking a shot at this season, and others had to close completely.
We’ve seen a lot of cancellations in the past few months but we remain hopeful for the rest of season as we decided to take that chance. Although, it has been nice to enjoy the river without the density of people; Cooper Landing, like the rest of Alaska, really does need its tourism to strive.

Wesley Fraker, Guide at Bear Trail Lodge

I feel like the pandemic has greatly affected the guiding community of Alaska from there being fewer tourists. Lodges all around the state were not even able to open this year because most of their clients are from out of state. Luckily Bear Trail Lodge still wanted to bring me on this year because we were able to operate and lower rates for in-state guests. Another thing lodges have been doing in my area is operating like hotels, and renting out rooms to whoever needs one. So all I can say is just support the local guides in your community and book a trip.

Bry Sims, Owner of Miss Guided AK Fishing

While the fish haven’t seemed to mind the COVID Pandemic, Guides and anglers like myself find ourselves struggling to get customers on the water. I have had lots of time to fish for fun while trying to stay prepared for potential charters but the phone just isn’t ringing.

During a tough summer for guides and other local businesses, please support your locals as much as you can!

Cover Photo Courtesy of Alaska Troutfitters.

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Dam Drawdown Causing Extensive Damage to Michigan’s Kalamazoo River

By

Will Poston

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July 9, 2020

Dams in Michigan have fared poorly this year. Back in May, two dams on the Tittabawassee River failed, threatening hundreds of local residents. Quite reasonably, these failures grasped media, political attention, and public anxiety. Unfortunately, throughout this spring, Michigan authorities neglected a different Michigan dam, resulting in an environmental disaster of its own.

The Kalamazoo River flows 130 miles throughout southern Michigan and empties into Lake Michigan. Once heavily polluted from decades of industrial activities, the Kalamazoo water quality has shown great improvements. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and carp are now productive fisheries, offering anglers great recreational opportunities on the Kalamazoo River.

Today, however, fishing on the Kalamazoo is close to impossible and the future of the river is in question. Last fall, Morrow Dam, privately owned and operated by Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, needed urgent repairs. So, Eagle Creek began drawing down the water levels above the dam (Morrow Reservoir). Long story short, the drawdown operation was botched from the onset, and wildlife and vegetation on the Kalamazoo are feeling the harmful effects. And months past the original deadline, Eagle Creek’s harmful work continues.

Jon Lee, a local fishing guide, said “a private company utilizing a public resource for profit with zero accountability is unacceptable.”

The drawdown lacked the necessary oversight, which resulted in the current issue: heavy sedimentation. Large volumes of sediment–including possible remnants of a 2010 oil spill, PCBs, and heavy metals–previously trapped above the dam were released during the drawdown. Ideally, the sediment issue would have been addressed from the get-go with proper mitigation measures. That did not happen.

Now, Lee is worried about the long-term health of the river and its fisheries– not to mention his professional guiding season. The massive sedimentation occurring is altering the river’s structure and choking out juvenile fish and eggs, shellfish, and vegetation. The volume of sediment now moving through the Kalamazoo can also contribute to nutrient pollution, which can lead to harmful algal blooms.

“The high sediment load for a prolonged period of time is a serious threat to the middle reach of the Kalamazoo River. Sedimentation is known to negatively impact fish and invertebrate habitat quality, especially bottom dwelling species,” said local biologist, Devin Bloom.

Michigan authorities have been working to fix the sediment problem, but tangible progress will not be achieved until December at the earliest, according to Lee.

Pictures courtesy of Jon Lee @Kalamazoo_river_guide. Check out his page for Kalamazoo River updates!

Small Business Spotlight: GHOSTech Strike Indicators

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Small Business Spotlight: GHOSTech Strike Indicators

By

Wills Donaldson

-

July 9, 2020

Welcome to the first-ever installment of Flylords’ “Small Business Spotlight” series. When it comes to fly fishing, constant innovation and ingenuity are synonymous with the spirit of the sport. That being said, new products are always being released, many of which don’t really meet any actual needs of anglers. However, every now and then, something comes out of the woodwork that really catches the eye and makes one think, “Wow! Now, this is a game-changer”. In an effort to support the foundation of the industry, Flylords is looking to bring a spotlight to small businesses we believe in. Here, we’ll highlight the up-and-comers in the industry we hope to see in every angler’s pack one day.

This week, we’re taking a look at the new indicators that are really (not) making a splash in fly fishing. GHOSTech Strike Indicators.

Background)

Having grown up a Pennsylvania angler myself (Wills Donaldson), I was no stranger to the necessity of nymphing, especially in the colder months in between fall and late spring. While some purists may protest that idea, and there is no problem in sticking with what you love, there is no denying that the underwater food chain is far more dependable than relying on weary wings landing on the surface. However, when it came to finding my preferred style of nymphing, I found that every method seemed to fall short in one way or another.

When it came to fishing minor flows and narrow creeks, common-place indicators seemed to fall short. Splashing giant plastic bobbers into gentle currents and eddies seemed to immediately alert any trout within a 100-meter radius to the falsity of my presentation. However, on the other hand, the more “stealthy” indicators made of dubbing, putty, or even dry-dropper rigs, became engulfed by the smallest riffle and couldn’t seem to stay afloat after the 3rd or 4th drift without a heavy application of floatant. Tightlining was of-course an option, but when it came to fishing slow-moving water and clearer pools, there was always the issue of staying stealthy and getting the reach needed (maybe I’m just a crappy fisherman).

Then, I stumbled across GHOSTech strike indicators. GHOSTech presented itself as a splash-free solution to all the problems that I had experienced above. I immediately reached out to founder, Stephen Cunic, to learn more. Within a week, I had a pack of GHOSTech indicators in my pack and was ready to find out whether or not they were the real deal.

Findings)

Upon opening the pack of several indicators, I was skeptical but certainly intrigued. The small flower-shaped puck was incredibly light in my hand. On the underbelly, there were 3 small plastic bubbles encompassing the bottom of a screw. I wondered how something so light could possibly carry a fly, but continued to screw the puck onto my line. Attaching the indicator was incredibly easy, and by unscrewing the little plastic nut, I could move the indicator up and down my line with ease.

When it came to casting it took me a second to get aquainted, but within a few minutes, the indicator was landing exactly where I aimed it. Casting it was a lot like tossing a dry fly, and I was amazed as the little flower puck gently glided through the air and tenderly graced the water. It floated across the current much like a bubble, blending into its surroundings flawlessly. It didn’t take more than a few drifts before I was hooked up on a hard fighting fish, and it wasn’t soon after that that I knew these indicators were going to be a valuable addition to my arsenal.

We had a chance to chat with founder, Stephen Cunic, about GHOSTech, and how he runs his small business)

Flylords: What is GHOSTech?

Stephen: GHOSTech at the surface is simply a splash-free indicator, adaptable to an individual’s needs, designed to help anglers catch more fish by eliminating their influence on the environment….but it’s also more than that.

GHOSTech / PaduaFly is a brand for people who believe in tactical fly fishing. For those individuals that look at their craft from a tactical & scientific perspective. For those who don’t just listen and follow others’ techniques blindly; it is for those who investigate the natural world implementing their own thoughts, ideas, & techniques to find success & personal joy through the inquisitive nature of fishing.

Flylords: How did GHOSTech start?

Stephen: GHOSTech Started through Necessity and observation. While out fly fishing I would consistently splash and scare fish while using other products. Knowing this was the opposite of my intended goals, I explored other options of indicators on the market and they all lacked to fully fulfill my needs(mostly needing to add floatant to make them work [why are we adding stuff to force something to work?!? It should work right out of the packaging] or needing a backpack full of sizes to adjust to fishing conditions ~silly).

While trying to force other indicators to work for me I observed bubbles floating down the water and thought ‘how cool would it be if I could simply attach bubbles to my fly line?’. So that is what I did.

Flylords: What separates Ghostech Strike indicators from any other indicator on the market

@flylords

Testing out the GHOSTech splash free indicators on the water this weekend. Not disappointed 🔥 #flyfishing #flylords #nymphindora

♬ Five Feet High and Rising – Johnny Cash

Stephen: GHOSTech is the ONLY Splash-Free indicator on the market that is ready to work for you right out of the package (no need for adding chemicals to (floatant), cutting, or manipulating the product for the product to be put to work…). More so, they can hold more weight than traditional fiber-based products, they are adaptable to an angler’s needs for the day, and cast more naturally than other bobber style indicators. The more you use the product the more you learn about them and how they can adapt to your individual needs. PLUS, they are 100% USA MADE!

Flylords: What has been one of the most interesting lessons that has come out of starting a small business in the fly fishing industry?

Stephen: Definitely how diverse this community really is; and I love it. We all know the archetype of the folks that are in this beautiful community and that “Type” is far from reality. Which is a beautiful thing because we don’t make products for cookie-cutter citizens. We make products for individuals; those who look at things from an explorative perspective….our clients are not step and repeat/copy and paste kind of folks. They are unique and we are here to serve your unique styles and vision to push the expectations of the industry to fit the needs of all by making products designed for the few.

Flylords: How can people support GHOSTech?

Stephen: Obviously, as a small growing business selling some product is always a blessing; Sharing your experiences with our products is really one of the best ways you can help support our vision. Sharing with your friends, family, your local fly shop, or guide and even with us is not only the support we need but the support we love. We love hearing from you; hearing of your successes and your memories makes this whole thing worth the late nights making indicators by hand for you. The best support is sharing and spreading the word of our products and brand to others you know think differently; those who think like you who look at fishing from a tactical & inquisitive perspective.

Thank you to Stephen for taking the time to sit down and chat with us about GHOSTech. If you want to show your support, feel free to click HERE and give them a try! Keep an eye out for more Small Business Spotlights coming soon!

*photos taken in Colorado

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