A crankbait "fly" - 07/26/05 07:05 PM
This product may have limited interest here but for those who like to fly fish this looks very interesting.
http://www.flylipps.com/index.html
http://www.flylipps.com/index.html
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 01:47 PM
Meadowlark . That fly does look neat , but to me not being a fly fisherman it looks like a lot of other baits .
I want to learn how to fly fish , and im sure there are lots of other guys here that would like to also.
Meadowlark , and George Glazener .
Need advice for beginners !
What Rod- Reel- Line , and whatever else it takes to get started .
It sounds like ya'll are very good and any advice would help .
Thanks Harvey
I want to learn how to fly fish , and im sure there are lots of other guys here that would like to also.
Meadowlark , and George Glazener .
Need advice for beginners !
What Rod- Reel- Line , and whatever else it takes to get started .
It sounds like ya'll are very good and any advice would help .
Thanks Harvey
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 01:58 PM
Got mine from Wal Mart. Just a cheapie, maybe $22 or so, but it works great, and came with line, backing, tippet and even some flies. It's a lot of fun just to see what's there and what's hungry.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 02:38 PM
harvey,
If you think I'm passionate about ponds, wait 'till you get me started talking about fly fishing.
I'm so glad you are interested in it. I absolutely love it, especially in ponds. In fact, I would venture to say that it is as effective, if not more effective an approach to fishing in ponds as conventional tackle, but loads of more fun.
We are blessed to have George on this Forum who is an accomplished fly fisherman. I'll throw some thoughts out and hope that George joins in also.
First, the rod is the most important piece of the system. Whatever level of money you decide to put into this, put most of it into the rod. There are very expensive rods out there and very cheap ones also. I recommend the TFO rods, a Texas company that is blowing away the competition, as a terrific rod at a reasonable price. I use a TFO TiCr 5 wt rod exclusively in my ponds. There are other good choices as well, but whatever you buy try it out first and see if it “fits” you.
Second, the line for ponds should be a WF (weight forward) floating line to match your rod weight. You can get into sinking lines later if you find the need but a WF floating line will serve you well for most circumstances. Get backing adequate for your reel capacity.
Third, the reel…the fly reel is just a line holder, spend as little as possible, unless you intend to get into such fish as Tarpon which require sophisticated drag systems.
Fourth, leaders…much technical talk about this, but just get some mono about 9 feet long and tie it on your fly line and go fishing. I use 6 pound test in ponds. Works great but you need a little heavier set up for HSB to avoid over stressing them.
Fifth, flies. Fly tying is absolute fun for some but a pain in the but for others. Flies are cheap. For starters, go to Wal Mart, buy a bunch of Miss Prissys and other bugs and go fishing. BG are an absolute blast on a 5 wt fly rod. Nothing I enjoy more, and I have caught Tarpon, bonefish, salmon, all species of trout, etc., etc. but nothing is more fun than catching a 1 pound BG on a Miss Prissy, nothing.
Please ask questions…I’d love to help and I’m sure George will also. Welcome to fly fishing, after this you will never turn back.
If you think I'm passionate about ponds, wait 'till you get me started talking about fly fishing.
I'm so glad you are interested in it. I absolutely love it, especially in ponds. In fact, I would venture to say that it is as effective, if not more effective an approach to fishing in ponds as conventional tackle, but loads of more fun.
We are blessed to have George on this Forum who is an accomplished fly fisherman. I'll throw some thoughts out and hope that George joins in also.
First, the rod is the most important piece of the system. Whatever level of money you decide to put into this, put most of it into the rod. There are very expensive rods out there and very cheap ones also. I recommend the TFO rods, a Texas company that is blowing away the competition, as a terrific rod at a reasonable price. I use a TFO TiCr 5 wt rod exclusively in my ponds. There are other good choices as well, but whatever you buy try it out first and see if it “fits” you.
Second, the line for ponds should be a WF (weight forward) floating line to match your rod weight. You can get into sinking lines later if you find the need but a WF floating line will serve you well for most circumstances. Get backing adequate for your reel capacity.
Third, the reel…the fly reel is just a line holder, spend as little as possible, unless you intend to get into such fish as Tarpon which require sophisticated drag systems.
Fourth, leaders…much technical talk about this, but just get some mono about 9 feet long and tie it on your fly line and go fishing. I use 6 pound test in ponds. Works great but you need a little heavier set up for HSB to avoid over stressing them.
Fifth, flies. Fly tying is absolute fun for some but a pain in the but for others. Flies are cheap. For starters, go to Wal Mart, buy a bunch of Miss Prissys and other bugs and go fishing. BG are an absolute blast on a 5 wt fly rod. Nothing I enjoy more, and I have caught Tarpon, bonefish, salmon, all species of trout, etc., etc. but nothing is more fun than catching a 1 pound BG on a Miss Prissy, nothing.
Please ask questions…I’d love to help and I’m sure George will also. Welcome to fly fishing, after this you will never turn back.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 02:45 PM
Harvey, there has been some very good, inexpensive fly tackle developed the past few years.
Previously good quality rods and reels were pricey, but as everything else, competition has brought the prices down.
Fisherman have discovered that fly fishing adds another dimension to their sport and is a heck of a lot of fun.
I favor Temple Fork Out-Fitters, a Dallas Company owned and operated by Rick Pope and endorsed by noted fly fisherman lefty Kreh.
Reddington and other companies are also providing quality products.
Inexpensive quality Combo sets (Rod/reel/line/leader) can be purchased from many on-line companies as well as Bass Pro Shops and Cabelas.
INHO,I would stay away from the “cheap”combo sets from local Wally Mart type stores.
I favor a 5 wt beginner set when starting out – with more experience you will need heavier equipment to turn a big LMB or HSM.
ML will chime in on this – BEWARE – fly-fishing will become addictive.
George Glazener
Previously good quality rods and reels were pricey, but as everything else, competition has brought the prices down.
Fisherman have discovered that fly fishing adds another dimension to their sport and is a heck of a lot of fun.
I favor Temple Fork Out-Fitters, a Dallas Company owned and operated by Rick Pope and endorsed by noted fly fisherman lefty Kreh.
Reddington and other companies are also providing quality products.
Inexpensive quality Combo sets (Rod/reel/line/leader) can be purchased from many on-line companies as well as Bass Pro Shops and Cabelas.
INHO,I would stay away from the “cheap”combo sets from local Wally Mart type stores.
I favor a 5 wt beginner set when starting out – with more experience you will need heavier equipment to turn a big LMB or HSM.
ML will chime in on this – BEWARE – fly-fishing will become addictive.
George Glazener
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 02:53 PM
ML, We are reading each others minds this morning - see post above - we must have been posting at the same time.... 
Have you considered a foam gurgler or diver on a sinking line, or shooting head, to achieve the same action, without the snags of a clouser type fly?
George
Have you considered a foam gurgler or diver on a sinking line, or shooting head, to achieve the same action, without the snags of a clouser type fly?
George
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 02:54 PM
George,
Amazing how we think alike...kind of scary.
Harvey,
TFO in my post is Temple Fork Outfitters, just as George described...amazing
and stay away from the cheap $22 Wal Mart stuff if at all possible.
Amazing how we think alike...kind of scary.
Harvey,
TFO in my post is Temple Fork Outfitters, just as George described...amazing
and stay away from the cheap $22 Wal Mart stuff if at all possible.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 02:59 PM
George,
I haven't done exactly that but my rig of choice is a popper or gurgler with a Prince nymph or other similar nymph tied off a couple of feet behind. Its a real killer.
Last weekend, on that rig, I caught several 1 pound BG (on the nymph), one of which I posted a picture (10 inches), a couple of LMB on the popper, and one very confused HSB.
I haven't done exactly that but my rig of choice is a popper or gurgler with a Prince nymph or other similar nymph tied off a couple of feet behind. Its a real killer.
Last weekend, on that rig, I caught several 1 pound BG (on the nymph), one of which I posted a picture (10 inches), a couple of LMB on the popper, and one very confused HSB.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 03:13 PM
I imagine I will get into fly fishing sooner or later. I have a good friend at work who will be coming to my pond to demonstrate when we can synchronize schedules (hard for me to do during hay season).
In what other pasttime is talk about Wooly Boogers socially acceptable?
In what other pasttime is talk about Wooly Boogers socially acceptable?
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/27/05 05:13 PM
Many years ago, I was advised by an avid Fly Fisherman that if I wanted to get into fly fishing, I should buy a kit from Cabela's called the Sweetwater Combo. It's a 7/8 weight.
I did buy it and have been very pleased with it. If I remember correctly, the whole thing was under $200.00.
I must say however, that while I am good at fly fishing, I still prefer the "lazy" live bait fishing.
It is a great hobby with a very purist and artistic outlook.
I did buy it and have been very pleased with it. If I remember correctly, the whole thing was under $200.00.
I must say however, that while I am good at fly fishing, I still prefer the "lazy" live bait fishing.
It is a great hobby with a very purist and artistic outlook.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/28/05 01:03 AM
Meadowlark , you say ask questions ! as of yet I don't know enough to ask questions now , but with the info you and George have posted it's more than enough to start a novice like me .
Im not looking for a [ wallyworld ] type of outfit . I want to start with a quality set up .
I think the 5 wt. to start with is good advice , since BG will be my main target , also buying the whole set as a combo rod/reel/line/leader will save a lot of confusion .
I think I will try the Temple Fork Out-Fitters since ya'll recomend it . I will save my Bass Pro gift cert. for other stuff .
Think I will start with the floating line and Hmmm , some of those Miss Prissey's sound pretty good -----
Am having the inside of my home re-done ! what a mess , plus a grandaughter's wedding next week in San Antonio so don't know when I'll be shopping .
But will go for it for sure, and will let you know how I progress .
ML & George , and all you other guy's thanks for being here and offering so much advice .
Harvey
Im not looking for a [ wallyworld ] type of outfit . I want to start with a quality set up .
I think the 5 wt. to start with is good advice , since BG will be my main target , also buying the whole set as a combo rod/reel/line/leader will save a lot of confusion .
I think I will try the Temple Fork Out-Fitters since ya'll recomend it . I will save my Bass Pro gift cert. for other stuff .
Think I will start with the floating line and Hmmm , some of those Miss Prissey's sound pretty good -----
Am having the inside of my home re-done ! what a mess , plus a grandaughter's wedding next week in San Antonio so don't know when I'll be shopping .
But will go for it for sure, and will let you know how I progress .
ML & George , and all you other guy's thanks for being here and offering so much advice .
Harvey
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/28/05 01:39 PM
ML thanks for that link , my clients will love that. I too bought the sweetwater combo years ago. If you want to get spoiled go to Alaska, even I caught several species on fly rod.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:11 AM
Ok ya'll got to take the bait or (fly) . I've had a rod /7-8 reel just got backin'wf floatin line and
a pack of leaders how much backin'& line do I use # 2 what do tippets do ? & do I need them to get started (in my pond). # any book Or site for dummies like me.
a pack of leaders how much backin'& line do I use # 2 what do tippets do ? & do I need them to get started (in my pond). # any book Or site for dummies like me.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:51 AM
Quote:
Originally posted by will:
how much backin'& line do I use # 2 what do tippets do ? & do I need them to get started (in my pond). # any book Or site for dummies like me.
how much backin'& line do I use # 2 what do tippets do ? & do I need them to get started (in my pond). # any book Or site for dummies like me.
You are off to a great start.
Backing: when you buy the reel you generally get information on how much backing it will hold and of what pound test. If you don't have that, and aren't planning on going Tarpon fishing right away
, then put about 100 yards of 20 pound test dacron on the reel first followed by the fly line, attached of course.Tippets give you some flexibility of re-tying multiple flies without replacing the entire leader. For my ponds, I use a 6 pound tippet about 2 to 3 feet long, but heck it really does not matter...the fish do not care. By the way, some fly fishing folks get really into the technical aspect of this sport...I don't. I prefer fishing, but certainly do not criticise those who do. Use a minimum of a 9 foot leader longer if the water is extremely clear. The leader should have a heavy 2 foot butt section something like 30 pound test, and other sections in decreasing line strength...or you can just tie on a 9 foot section of mono 6 pound test or whatever you prefer and go fishing. The fish don't really care as long as the end section, or tippet isn't visable. The reason for a declining line strenght in your leader is to "turn the fly over" or in other words, place the fly where you want it with minimum commotion, sort of.
Tomorow I'll send you some great web sites with good info. I really hope you enjoy this because I do love it so.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 11:54 AM
Will, all of ML’s suggestion are are on the mark - keep it simple.
The easiest way to determine the amount of backing is to wind on the fly line first and then the backing, until reel is near full.
Then wind the backing onto another reel, or sometimes I use a large empty line spool.
You’ll have to reverse the process and then tie the backing to the reel spool with an arbor knot.
Dacron backing is adequate for most reels but if you need more backing when you graduate to ML”s tarpon reels , consider using gelspun backing for more reel capacity.
A full reel provides faster pickup, but for your pond reel, it is just a place to store your line.
I agree with ML on a heavy butt section, and mono for leaders. I use a minimum of 12# and sometime 16# test to land the fish quickly if fish is to be released – otherwise fish caught on light tackle seldom survive. Use lighter and longer “tapered leaders/tippets for extra clear water –otherwise shorter the better.
A heavy butt section not only helps to “turn over” the fly, but minimizes line twist when casting poppers and gurglers.
“Google up” Lefty Kheh casting instruction video – he’s the best.
I’ll try to find it for you.
Stay away from the “classic” casting instructors - keep it simple.
Probably more than you wanted to know – good luck.
George Glazener
The easiest way to determine the amount of backing is to wind on the fly line first and then the backing, until reel is near full.
Then wind the backing onto another reel, or sometimes I use a large empty line spool.
You’ll have to reverse the process and then tie the backing to the reel spool with an arbor knot.
Dacron backing is adequate for most reels but if you need more backing when you graduate to ML”s tarpon reels , consider using gelspun backing for more reel capacity.
A full reel provides faster pickup, but for your pond reel, it is just a place to store your line.
I agree with ML on a heavy butt section, and mono for leaders. I use a minimum of 12# and sometime 16# test to land the fish quickly if fish is to be released – otherwise fish caught on light tackle seldom survive. Use lighter and longer “tapered leaders/tippets for extra clear water –otherwise shorter the better.
A heavy butt section not only helps to “turn over” the fly, but minimizes line twist when casting poppers and gurglers.
“Google up” Lefty Kheh casting instruction video – he’s the best.
I’ll try to find it for you.
Stay away from the “classic” casting instructors - keep it simple.
Probably more than you wanted to know – good luck.
George Glazener
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 12:14 PM
George & ML:
You guys are making this sound less like golf and more like fishing! If I had more time, I believe I'd be buying Fly gear NOW.
I'm starting to think about scheduling "start fly fishing" for next year - it's all your fault.
You guys are making this sound less like golf and more like fishing! If I had more time, I believe I'd be buying Fly gear NOW.
I'm starting to think about scheduling "start fly fishing" for next year - it's all your fault.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 12:33 PM
Check out Lefty Kreh's fly casting video video clip:
http://flyfisherman.com/skills/lkaids/
George Glazener
http://flyfisherman.com/skills/lkaids/
George Glazener
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 12:37 PM
George .
That was a mouthfull ! I think I will just print all this out , study it , and then go shopping with this info in hand and have the store gear me up to these specs.
Probably won't be that easy , but thats what im going to do .
Harvey BG & LMB will be my prey !
That was a mouthfull ! I think I will just print all this out , study it , and then go shopping with this info in hand and have the store gear me up to these specs.
Probably won't be that easy , but thats what im going to do .
Harvey BG & LMB will be my prey !
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 12:44 PM
Will order Lefty,s Vidio , thanks for posting it .
I will need all the help I can get !
Harvey
I will need all the help I can get !
Harvey
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 01:19 PM
Harvey,
One thing about most fly fishers...they love their sport and like to see others succeed at it also. I will help to the extent of my knowledge and George is simply a wealth of good info. Have fun.
One thing about most fly fishers...they love their sport and like to see others succeed at it also. I will help to the extent of my knowledge and George is simply a wealth of good info. Have fun.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 02:14 PM
Glad to see this topic return. More good pointers. Went to George's link for the instruction video and looking forward to getting started. I ordered a 7 weight rod/reel a couple of weeks ago from Bass Pro shops which has yet to arrive however I received your kit in the mail today George, about an hour ago, and anxious to get started. Have a ticket in hand and should be back in Thailand on 12 August, hope the fly rod makes it before I travel. Many thanks to both George and ML for all their insight!
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:12 PM
Thanks Gentlemen Ya'll are the Greatest;
The equiment I have so far has
had little or no instructions so I been night fishin'(in the dark).I figured I'll learn mostly
by trail & error & experiment( not what the pros & experts may say to do
but you can have more fun,learn more and who knows you might just come up with a whole new way of doing it ) but I what the core basic idea way to go about this Art/fishin'.
The equiment I have so far has
had little or no instructions so I been night fishin'(in the dark).I figured I'll learn mostly
by trail & error & experiment( not what the pros & experts may say to do
but you can have more fun,learn more and who knows you might just come up with a whole new way of doing it ) but I what the core basic idea way to go about this Art/fishin'.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:24 PM
Will,
Did I detect a note of sarcasm there? Careful you may get compared to Theo, the greatest and recognized champion of the Forum sarcasm..and a person who is nibbling at fly fishing. We just haven't set the hook on him yet.
Did I detect a note of sarcasm there? Careful you may get compared to Theo, the greatest and recognized champion of the Forum sarcasm..and a person who is nibbling at fly fishing. We just haven't set the hook on him yet.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:42 PM
"That's a mighty tasty lookin' Rat-Faced McDougal you've got there, Mr. Hartley. D'ya think I otta take it in my mouth and swim with it?"
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:45 PM
No just saying life is ment for learnig and what better way than like floating fly ON THE EDGE where air meets water.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 03:48 PM
Quote:
floating fly ON THE EDGE where air meets water.
will: very nicely stated.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 04:02 PM
Will,
You need to get your post count up...anybody that can stay with Theo (I can't even come close) needs to share that talent with the rest of us.
You need to get your post count up...anybody that can stay with Theo (I can't even come close) needs to share that talent with the rest of us.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 04:12 PM
sorry I'm just busy with life/journey. Got to go now
work & check pond. Will
work & check pond. Will
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/29/05 06:49 PM
Will,
I mentioned I'd post a couple of links today.
The first is a really good general information source. Lots of information....and forums where you can read and ask questions.
The second is a similar link but has mostly Texas folks as members. I frequent both sites on occasion, and haven't been thrown out , yet
http://www.flyanglersonline.com/
http://www.texasflyreport.com/default.asp
I mentioned I'd post a couple of links today.
The first is a really good general information source. Lots of information....and forums where you can read and ask questions.
The second is a similar link but has mostly Texas folks as members. I frequent both sites on occasion, and haven't been thrown out , yet
http://www.flyanglersonline.com/
http://www.texasflyreport.com/default.asp
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 01:15 PM
CAN THEO SWIM ????
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 01:21 PM
ML - have put both links in my favorite places for future reference.
The info will help a beginner like me !
Thanks Harvey
The info will help a beginner like me !
Thanks Harvey
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 02:48 PM
Harvey, I doubt seriously that Theo has ever had an opportunity to learn to swim. There's only about 2 weeks of summer and warm water. Add that to the fact that hot air rises; I expect he would float. A stiff breeze would move him to the shore.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 03:24 PM
A wealth of information from ya'll fellow Texans. I do find it rather ironic that warm water fishermen are the only ones giving fly fishing lessons. Is there no one from Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Ozarks? I dont know how we could get much better ideas, but maybe different techniques?
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 06:48 PM
DD: Keep talking, I'm taking notes. Only 8 months until April 1, 2006. :p
BM: Those Northern tier folks are too busy enjoying their two weeks (or even less!) of Summer to post right now. Probably trying to learn to swim, at least the ones who don't float naturally.
BM: Those Northern tier folks are too busy enjoying their two weeks (or even less!) of Summer to post right now. Probably trying to learn to swim, at least the ones who don't float naturally.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 08:51 PM
Burgermeister, what techniques in particular would you like to know about cold water fly fishing?
Ozarks, N. Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina mountain streams?
How about Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and I’ll throw in Alaska to boot?
Shoot your questions – I’ll respond – been there – done that…
Ozarks, N. Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina mountain streams?
How about Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and I’ll throw in Alaska to boot?
Shoot your questions – I’ll respond – been there – done that…
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 09:55 PM
Thanks for the offer of knowledge, experience, George. Just trying to see what kind of diversification we have on the Forum. I'm sure Theo hit it on the head. Enjoying the moment, while I'll inside trying to cope with the heat.{I DO work outside, too much). I havent done any fly fishing, but when a kid in Ms. for 'bream', and some in Valdez, Ak. Not really a salmon guy, though. Ya'll keep up the interesting posts.
Re: A crankbait "fly" - 07/30/05 11:26 PM
BM,
I agree diversity is interesting and it would be good to hear from the "Yankees" (term of endearment) but I liked George's idea of listing out the coverage...so on the southern end of things:
In Mexico :Xcalak, Cancun, Cozumel, Campeche, Chetumal
In Bahamas: Crooked Island, Exuma Island, Long Island
In Belize: Ambergris Cay, Turneff Island
On the Northern end,
In Alaska: Prince of Whales Island, Homer, Glacier Bay, Moose River, Kodiac, Kenai River
Other USA: Florida, Arkansas, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Missouri
We got you covered. We both like to fly fish!
p.s. its too hot to do anything today but play on the PC
I agree diversity is interesting and it would be good to hear from the "Yankees" (term of endearment) but I liked George's idea of listing out the coverage...so on the southern end of things:
In Mexico :Xcalak, Cancun, Cozumel, Campeche, Chetumal
In Bahamas: Crooked Island, Exuma Island, Long Island
In Belize: Ambergris Cay, Turneff Island
On the Northern end,
In Alaska: Prince of Whales Island, Homer, Glacier Bay, Moose River, Kodiac, Kenai River
Other USA: Florida, Arkansas, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Missouri
We got you covered. We both like to fly fish!
p.s. its too hot to do anything today but play on the PC