tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33964954408516440132024-02-19T01:17:58.467-05:00Tri-Star OutfittersGuided Fly Fishing, Backcountry Tenkara and Hiking Adventures in the Mountains of East TennesseeSteve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.comBlogger8125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-63549625427060632002020-04-16T20:12:00.000-04:002020-04-18T10:28:44.437-04:00Temperature TriggersI came across this photo of an article that I saved years ago. Thought it may be of interest to others as I found it to be a good read. Puts a little different spin on things. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjWFxwFp6cLBxwp_wCi3aNblmwQDtgWT2CbtoFEUhPzk3gPjc1lLSvEOw8s14_LOjkdZZEAf2a2XRsCQgz7TwdHVqHYnE8C8b3r5aZ1RENxonY-j-eyZTaSktZ-XVjDaXjcgTnFLjNYM/s1600/Temp+Triggers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjWFxwFp6cLBxwp_wCi3aNblmwQDtgWT2CbtoFEUhPzk3gPjc1lLSvEOw8s14_LOjkdZZEAf2a2XRsCQgz7TwdHVqHYnE8C8b3r5aZ1RENxonY-j-eyZTaSktZ-XVjDaXjcgTnFLjNYM/s640/Temp+Triggers.png" width="398" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-74449919587607112582020-04-16T09:00:00.000-04:002020-04-16T09:42:20.812-04:00High, Dirty Water Fly Fishing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDiH5POPHpTmSqxbXx312q3zcyaMZAU0dabDn_pr9BUWU23sfm5s9phX4d4Irz61uLaw4f67ggd33xcMyuqqSE_BUa2PQ9OQ7Ccg6ZbjAWp7jimkJWPIPBq7-mH62TRCS6AoSt14TKxxM/s1600/IMG_1390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="479" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDiH5POPHpTmSqxbXx312q3zcyaMZAU0dabDn_pr9BUWU23sfm5s9phX4d4Irz61uLaw4f67ggd33xcMyuqqSE_BUa2PQ9OQ7Ccg6ZbjAWp7jimkJWPIPBq7-mH62TRCS6AoSt14TKxxM/s400/IMG_1390.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of the biggest myths in fly fishing is that trout don't
feed well in high, dirty water. Nothing could be further from the truth. The
trout actually gorge themselves quite often during high, dirty water
conditions. The fact that you aren't catching them doesn't mean that they
aren't feeding. The tactics do change a little however, especially from the way
most people believe that they need to present their flies during the dirty
water times. Here's a few tips that may help you out:</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Lose the Flash</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most people tend to think that they need to throw big,
bright, flashy flies when fishing in dirty water so the fish can see their
offering. This may be one of the biggest myths out there. The trout sees very
well in dirty water...very well. Just because you can't see the fly doesn't
mean that they can't. In fact, flashy flies will often turn them away. Think
about it like this...nothing in nature produces flash without sunlight
reflecting on it. In dirty water there would not be enough light penetration
for anything to produce flash, so it is not a natural occurrence and the fish
know that something is up. Go to a dark, or at least a darker fly, and see if
that produces some better results for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Downsize Your Fly</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another myth related to fish not being able to see your fly
is to think that it has to be a large fly in order to get noticed. Again, these
fish make a living eating. They see your fly very well. The reason they don't
eat it actually may be that it is too big. Keep in mind that there is a huge
amount of dislodgement occurring during high water. The trout are literally
being bombarded with food floating downstream that has been washed out from
under the rocks, off the banks or wherever else it usually hides out. In fact,
that's the reason that most people find the fishing slower during these times.
The trout simply have a huge amount of food available to them and will often
key in on the size food that they are actually seeing as a natural occurrence.
If your fly is way too big, then guess what, it just doesn't look right to them
and they will leave it alone. In fact, try fishing a two fly rig (which you
should be doing anyway) with two very different sized nymphs, say a size 10
stonefly versus a size 16 hares ear. Bet you'll be surprised at how much better
the smaller fly does in getting their attention.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Beat the Banks</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This can be very important. It only makes sense to present
your fly to areas that are actually holding fish. During high water, whether
it's dirty or not, the fish will often be pushed to the banks in order to find
more suitable flows to hold in. Just like any other time, they do not like
fighting the current when they don't have to. Many times you walk right past
them on your way out to fish the middle of the river. Big mistake! Pay
attention to the slower currents that are often found in the more shallow water
near the banks. If you are truly in high water conditions you can bet that the
fish will not be holding in the middle of the river without having a good
current break to hide behind. But overall, you'll find them tucked away safely
within a few feet of the bank enjoying the softer water and gorging themselves
on the abundance of food that just magically appeared when the water rose.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-9193222326875973322020-04-13T15:58:00.000-04:002020-04-18T10:41:46.083-04:00Suunto MC-2 G Mirror Compass<span style="background-color: orange;">Disclaimer: My product reviews are based on my use of these products on a personal and commercial level. I'm an outfitter and guide, as well as an avid outdoorsman. I AM NOT sponsored or given these products in order to write a favorable review. This product was purchased with my money and used for my personal benefit, as well as in the process of conducting my business operations. It's a fair and honest review....enjoy! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: orange;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcXWB_BgzERrDZlAFGez2hBRyxwB-AvPtLMN5YOxkQaWAwX1TGPnYRmm6nZdB4FTyKMj9ja7HYksg0Kht7QH29aU28pRaUb-rcOzgpxbNxP6qR54DKd5PxcXsIVg7TY9pXNpEP59h0Dc/s1600/IMG_0571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="464" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcXWB_BgzERrDZlAFGez2hBRyxwB-AvPtLMN5YOxkQaWAwX1TGPnYRmm6nZdB4FTyKMj9ja7HYksg0Kht7QH29aU28pRaUb-rcOzgpxbNxP6qR54DKd5PxcXsIVg7TY9pXNpEP59h0Dc/s200/IMG_0571.jpg" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suunto MC-2G Compass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
OK, I admit it. I love land navigation! From my early days in the Boy Scouts to my years spent as a U.S. Army infantry soldier, I've had a lot of practice and real world experience in the art of land navigation. It's always been an interesting science to me, and I enjoy doing it whenever possible. It's also very handy knowledge to have, especially when you spend lots of time all alone on off-trail pursuits. In fact, it becomes a necessity. You either get very good at it, very quickly, or you become a statistic. Simple as that.<br />
<br />
As I stated, I'm an avid outdoorsman and guide. I guide fishing, hunting and hiking trips. Most of that time is spent off-trail. After all, the best fishing and hunting spots are not located on trails. In order to be successful and safe in that line of work, navigation skills are a must. You not only have your own safety at risk, but your clients' as well. Those are not responsibilities that I take lightly. In order to conduct my trips in the safest manner possible, I depend on some of the best gear available in today's market. And when it comes to my choice of compass, I couldn't be happier than I am with my Suunto MC-2G.<br />
<br />
The Suunto MC-2G is a mirrored sighting compass, which obviously means that it has a mirror on it to aid in sighting your bearings. This is a good addition, but the main reason I want a mirror compass is simply for first aid scenarios, i.e. to get something out of my eye, check out a cut to my face, etc. It can also be used for signalling purposes if need be. When folded shut, the mirror covers the actual compass dial and adds a layer of protection that is also nice to have. It weighs a little more than a typical baseplate compass, but it's worth it in my opinion.<br />
<br />
The compass has a global needle, which means it can be used anywhere in the world, not just in North America. The needle can function at tilts up to 20 degrees, which makes it useful in other parts of the world as well where the magnetic pull would render typical compass needles useless due to them dragging and sticking within the dial. It also dampens quickly for faster readings on the go.<br />
<br />
The compass has an adjustable declination which is an absolute necessity in my opinion. Many, many, many people have become hopelessly lost because they either forgot to account for declination or didn't know how to do it. This feature takes that extra step out of the equation. It also speeds up the learning curve for new navigators. Priceless in my opinion.<br />
<br />
It also comes with a clinometer for figuring slope if you're in an area where avalanches are a concern. Another nice feature to have when you need it, and certainly not a common feature on most compasses. A well thought out addition, for sure.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrF8nMoTllGKlargxl9huPUdhbU__Z4XIOq91Q0vr8mnFsj6wST034EkDRQTI_uRXgi9tys0FtZIFForLPXXv458DTpubjGU-B0bzYKvJCoBt3sc-sRXFn9yOMwskUnprqmlsOkEmKaQ/s1600/IMG_0378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrF8nMoTllGKlargxl9huPUdhbU__Z4XIOq91Q0vr8mnFsj6wST034EkDRQTI_uRXgi9tys0FtZIFForLPXXv458DTpubjGU-B0bzYKvJCoBt3sc-sRXFn9yOMwskUnprqmlsOkEmKaQ/s320/IMG_0378.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4YMk04fhbp0h57Yhkq14v0RxOixcoxPWJgxXnlpwt5uksD1p5hWEfVJ91aW2xFu3FPks4kXOuQ3_St3elUOH282SG-0r841_QklZGSAIFIqHuEcDR356U0bVqbMO-YkVoD5TKZhRCsA/s1600/IMG_0569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4YMk04fhbp0h57Yhkq14v0RxOixcoxPWJgxXnlpwt5uksD1p5hWEfVJ91aW2xFu3FPks4kXOuQ3_St3elUOH282SG-0r841_QklZGSAIFIqHuEcDR356U0bVqbMO-YkVoD5TKZhRCsA/s320/IMG_0569.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<b style="color: #333333; font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><u><br /></u></b><br />
<b style="font-family: ProximaNova, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><u>Pros</u></b><br />
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">All the features described above plus....</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Map scales and rulers printed on baseplate</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Detachable lanyard</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Luminescent markings for low light conditions</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Limited lifetime warranty</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><b><u>Cons</u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">A little pricey if you don't want all the features </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Slightly heavier than a standard baseplate compass without mirror</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "proximanova" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></span></div>
As someone who spends a great deal of his life in the woods, on the water and out of cell phone range, I can tell you without a doubt that I depend on this compass frequently. I like to know where I'm at and where I'm going, and I don't like to mess around getting there. It helps me put clients on untouched (blueline) waters and it helps me when I'm planning extended hiking trips from the comfort of my desk at home. Regardless of the situation, when I need a compass this is the one I reach for.<br />
<br />
Let me know what compass you prefer, and why, in the comments section. Thanks for reading and be safe out there.<br />
<br />
Steve<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfma18UVE2t3sIu2vXBlSMGfXl6dbpRMtk-FMRaL9S9guVr8gHc9LoVBrYZTTxK7w-OOgrA8xA3jJqYn2jvqKA3L0AFe7ZclMFrLbSsjOkenTvIhLo25tToUkWlMKEoIL3sINEAGLtKo/s1600/Pace+Counting+Beads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfma18UVE2t3sIu2vXBlSMGfXl6dbpRMtk-FMRaL9S9guVr8gHc9LoVBrYZTTxK7w-OOgrA8xA3jJqYn2jvqKA3L0AFe7ZclMFrLbSsjOkenTvIhLo25tToUkWlMKEoIL3sINEAGLtKo/s640/Pace+Counting+Beads.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-5299378056983334182018-03-07T11:21:00.000-05:002018-03-07T11:21:21.541-05:00To Bead or Not to Bead<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEeQgwRhjX3aYa4XU2JH9yhYVN25-VgQWf9eouuj8cGgjGbswwd811knGM6Ly3kBzxdrqvf5SPqW4aOmRpuzzP_FDx1CpCKxRIxSPEOIp6sjUf7wQc_BtJ3kjoEfpUWBKUit05krXpHh8/s1600/Prince+nymph.jpg"><span style="color: windowtext; mso-no-proof: yes; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600"
o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f"
stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75"
alt="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEeQgwRhjX3aYa4XU2JH9yhYVN25-VgQWf9eouuj8cGgjGbswwd811knGM6Ly3kBzxdrqvf5SPqW4aOmRpuzzP_FDx1CpCKxRIxSPEOIp6sjUf7wQc_BtJ3kjoEfpUWBKUit05krXpHh8/s320/Prince+nymph.jpg"
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEeQgwRhjX3aYa4XU2JH9yhYVN25-VgQWf9eouuj8cGgjGbswwd811knGM6Ly3kBzxdrqvf5SPqW4aOmRpuzzP_FDx1CpCKxRIxSPEOIp6sjUf7wQc_BtJ3kjoEfpUWBKUit05krXpHh8/s1600/Prince+nymph.jpg"
style='width:240pt;height:147pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'
o:button="t">
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/STEVEB~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="Prince%2Bnymph"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;"></span><!--[endif]--></span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRH3kYOAzPvEFiFXpfOoFM0HejrLPNYU48Z8FUglzZzhSTcZiub0LUl0hUHqGzZAbqMMzRQi0-3WvkJzcC7BITjwj7wL9HszIpEEqlD9mLioJrGE3Y09dxCiUcsPP2z8RGcsc440Cqt_M/s1600/Bead+Head+Nymph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="186" data-original-width="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRH3kYOAzPvEFiFXpfOoFM0HejrLPNYU48Z8FUglzZzhSTcZiub0LUl0hUHqGzZAbqMMzRQi0-3WvkJzcC7BITjwj7wL9HszIpEEqlD9mLioJrGE3Y09dxCiUcsPP2z8RGcsc440Cqt_M/s1600/Bead+Head+Nymph.jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
There is little doubt that the bead head nymph is a staple
in everyone's fly box. And for good reason. As we all know, it is extremely
important to get the nymph down to the bottom of the stream quickly in order to
achieve as realistic a presentation as possible. But....have you ever really
thought about what this may look like to a trout laying in 7 feet of water?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a>The point I'm trying to make here is this: In my opinion there
are 2 main flaws with this presentation. The flash created by the big, shiny
bead and the inability to truly know the depth that your fly is at throughout
the drift. Let me explain.<br />
I think most people would agree that there is very little light penetration in
the deeper runs of a river. Even during the times of full sun, very little
penetrates to the depths where most trout feel comfortable spending their day
casually feeding. The shine and glitter from a big gold colored bead would
certainly look out of place as opposed to a natural insect which would be much
darker in comparison. I don't use bead heads much anyway, but when I do, I use
the dark colored beads to better blend in with the trouts' environment. Not
saying that my way is better, just food for thought and something to consider
when nymphing at deeper depths or during dark, overcast days.<br />
The few times that I do prefer to use bright, or even glass beads, is when I
find myself letting the flies swing in order to imitate an emerging insect.
This can be a truly deadly technique in the larger tailwaters where the insect
activity can be phenomenal during the bright, bluebird skies. The added shine
is more realistic due to the light penetration that does occur at these shallow
depths, and also the added bonus of imitating the gaseous bubble exhibited by
some nymphs to assist them in ascending to the surface. This is one of the few
times when some flash on the head of a nymph actually does make sense.<br />
The second problem, in my opinion, is that you don't have good control of your
flies depth throughout the drift. A heavy bead head fly will be more likely to
ride along the very bottom of the stream. The problem is that trout feed from
their head up, in about 6 inch increments. Rarely will they feed below their
holding depth, and they certainly don't lie with their bellies rubbing the
bottom. So how do we weight the fly in order to get it down in the water column
without it sinking to the very bottom of the stream you ask? There are really
only 2 ways left. You either add split shot above your fly or you add it below
your fly (drop shot technique).<br />
Adding the split shot above your fly gives you the benefit of your fly
suspending off the bottom, but you really have no control over what level it
drifts through at. That may become a problem when fishing for extremely finicky
fish. That is one reason that I prefer using a drop shot technique over the
previously mentioned methods of dredging a nymph.<br />
In the drop shot system, the split shot is at the very end of your leader. You
can use as much weight as needed to ensure that you get your presentation down
as quickly as possible without it appearing unnatural to the fish. The first
nymph is positioned about 6 inches above your weight and then a dropper loop is
tied in a few inches above that for a double nymph presentation. In this
technique it doesn't interfere with the natural looking drift of the flies and
it keeps them fishing at whatever depth you decide you want them at. The bottom
fly should be the darker of the two since it will be closer to the bottom. The
dropper fly can be a shiny bead head or even a soft hackle, which can be swung
to imitate its' emergence.<br />
The drop shot system is my favorite technique to use when fishing nymphs or
soft hackle flies. I believe it to be the most realistic presentation possible
when fishing these types of flies. It is also very versatile and can be used
with any nymph, soft hackle or emerger pattern with or without the use of a
strike indicator. Give it a try and see what you think. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-54343122745549401952018-03-06T20:18:00.000-05:002018-03-06T20:18:00.486-05:00Swingin' Soft Hackles<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQan4fybBPt8LiIrQLlM1xsbO78CB187wTHUBOsbWn-8YVLw2zAmGnvXO3DTyVaoRABwkgguqWDaNTlasWoDWRuqzIIAKhbpSS3eizT-4Josit31CWDCRIpYei7hrCQ2KxnkMukXiZNY/s1600/Soft+Hackle+Fly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQan4fybBPt8LiIrQLlM1xsbO78CB187wTHUBOsbWn-8YVLw2zAmGnvXO3DTyVaoRABwkgguqWDaNTlasWoDWRuqzIIAKhbpSS3eizT-4Josit31CWDCRIpYei7hrCQ2KxnkMukXiZNY/s1600/Soft+Hackle+Fly.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The soft hackle fly is probably one of the least used flies
in most fly boxes. Just like other wet flies, it has fallen out of favor over
the years. This has always been a mystery to me because I find it to be a very
productive fly when swung through proper current on most of the rivers that I
guide on, especially the big tailwaters like the Hiwassee.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The soft hackle fly effectively imitates emerging insects and even drowned
naturals. I find the most effective presentation to be a down and across
current cast, kept on a tight line and swung through the "foam line"
that is present in most dominant currents on large tailwaters. I like to swing
it through and let it rest at the end with a slow, painfully slow, retrieval
for maybe 5 strips. This imitates an emerging insect trying to break through
the surface film in order to hatch.<br />
If presented correctly this can and will produce strikes throughout the day in
almost any conditions. The hardest part for most of my clients is to get a good
hookset once they do get a strike. Since the fly is on a tight line, they
actually get to feel the strike. This is a new concept for most of them and
they can't believe how quickly the trout actually strikes. You have to be on
your game when they hit or you will miss way more fish than you can catch
throughout the day. This is the only true downside to the technique, but most
don't seem to mind because they enjoy the action, so to speak. They agree that
it beats having to just sit and watch an indicator float down the river all
day. It's certainly hard to argue with that point.<br />
The next time you're out, especially on a big tailwater where you have ample
room to get a good swing, dust off that wet fly box and try a soft hackle fly.
It will keep you and your senses sharp as it will definitely produce some
vicious takes. Just be ready to set the hook and keep a tight grip on that fly
rod!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-84932899440450483642018-03-05T22:16:00.000-05:002018-03-05T22:18:11.228-05:00Foam is Home<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Many anglers
have heard this saying over the years, but few seem to know the true meaning of
"Foam is Home" and why we love to fish the foam lines. If you have
ever been guided by me, I know for certain that you have heard my thoughts on
the subject. The foam lines are one of my favorite areas to fish for feeding
trout. Here are a couple of reasons why:</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">
<br />
1) The presence of the foam line means that is where the majority of the
current is flowing. When fly fishing you have to realize that trout see current
flow as a buffet table. That is where their food comes from as the current is
what washes the food downstream to the waiting fish. This is where the spent
insects are concentrated and free flowing, so why not lay your offering out
into the foam as well? It works after all, at least in my experience.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a><br />
2) The foam line is also a good indicator of where the actual seam is located.
The seam is where the fast water and slower water meet. This is one of the best
places to target actively feeding trout. They can hold in the slower water,
which is naturally much easier for them to do, and still see the food that gets
washed down in the faster current. When they locate a possible meal they can
dart out into the faster water, grab it, then return to the softer water to
wait on the next offering to come by.<br />
<br />
3) The emerging insects can also get caught up in the foam line as they try to
break through the surface tension of the water in order to hatch. This is a
great time to swing your soft hackle fly through the foam. In fact, many times
the trout are actually feeding on the emergers versus the adult flies when
spotted feeding in the foam. The "bulge" displayed as they feed on
emergers just under the surface is often mistaken for a rise. This can be a
critical mistake for an angler, as they will usually concentrate on the
emerging pattern instead of the adult imitation. You can literally try every
dry fly in your box without any luck. It can be that technical at times,
especially when trying to fool wild, native trout.<br />
<br />
These are a few of the top reasons that it pays to fish the foam lines,
especially when you're on new water that you are not familiar with. There's no
need to know where the drop offs, ledges and other holding water is located
when you can easily spot the foam lines and concentrate on those. Foam lines
are a secret that the locals just can't hide. Give them a try and you'll see why
we wish that we could!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-35026861888907455592018-03-04T17:59:00.001-05:002018-03-04T18:05:41.868-05:00Backcountry Tenkara Trips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDyK5-5H4qV5JYdgpmGGUatf83dXGNUf6Ewu-2w_lZS08EIKYrwC9Q6HhFdgTn9fSuFFI1jdvhmxzrkDpss6e9jU2mvVvBq1kqiaUJ7tbslsZndIVpwfxFcowDXlijGwtwacfuhaeCf4/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDyK5-5H4qV5JYdgpmGGUatf83dXGNUf6Ewu-2w_lZS08EIKYrwC9Q6HhFdgTn9fSuFFI1jdvhmxzrkDpss6e9jU2mvVvBq1kqiaUJ7tbslsZndIVpwfxFcowDXlijGwtwacfuhaeCf4/s400/unnamed.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Our backcountry Tenkara trips have begun for the 2018 season. This is a new offering that we are introducing this year. We're proud to be the only guide service in the area to offer these trips.<br />
We've completely embraced the concept of tenkara, which is an ancient Japanese form of fly fishing introduced to the U.S. in 2009 by the founder of Tenkara USA. Tenkara is historically practiced on small mountain streams which makes it perfect for the backcountry fishing that we specialize in. There is no reel used in tenkara. This concept of simplicity and efficiency also makes it ideal for introducing beginners to the sport of fly fishing.<br />
Come join us for this new, exciting twist that we are introducing to the area. Once you get the hang of this small stream fishing your "blue lining" will never be the same.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK09dn7QbK28kggY97pr16VXnIoQGUTAwy9nvE3v2cgJqjxm2GERxCaJhAef72k8DTX46vMsjv3B0KcZEl8NNW_Zri2O5ZfUuP3gHVC225B7r2MQr-m4flo0-ezjmMRb5TgmNMZTXiIgI/s1600/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK09dn7QbK28kggY97pr16VXnIoQGUTAwy9nvE3v2cgJqjxm2GERxCaJhAef72k8DTX46vMsjv3B0KcZEl8NNW_Zri2O5ZfUuP3gHVC225B7r2MQr-m4flo0-ezjmMRb5TgmNMZTXiIgI/s400/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3396495440851644013.post-9512498526342494522018-03-03T01:36:00.000-05:002018-03-03T01:36:25.212-05:00Welcome to Our New BlogWelcome to our new blog! We are excited to get back into the blogging business, so to speak. We did one for a few years under our old guide service name, but when we changed the name of our company we just gave up the blogging for some reason.<br />
We hope to update this one more often than we did our last blog. Sometimes life gets in the way, as you all know, but we will make every effort to make this one more active and informative for all. Please feel free to comment and offer any suggestions for content that you would like to see posted here. We appreciate your interaction and look forward to many more posts to come. Thanks in advance.Steve Brysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09545235701039928419noreply@blogger.com0