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Fishing Report 06-10-10
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[Wisconsin:
Almost 5 inches of much needed rain had fallen in the past two weeks! Our surface waters are showing signs of much more abundant life, but our ground water is still suffering from the many years of low water levels. Consequently there are still many lakes that are 2 to 4 feet low! Most of our area rivers and streams are in very good shape right now, hopefully we are climbing out of the Extreme drought conditions we have been in since 2003!
The hot muggy weather that has dominated the scene this past week is finally giving way to some unsettled weather, we are under the influence of another weather shift sitting upon us. Changing weather conditions are always a major factor in fishing, but persistence and planning are the key to your success. It seems like the barometer is always moving this year so it's just a matter of finding an "Ideal" time to get afield - I always try to plan my trips around a falling barometer. I think the fish move best due to the lower pressure - the high pressure pushes down on the water more and I believe that causes the fish to stay near the bottom and feed less.
Since the foods which the fish eat are growing larger it only makes sense that the baits we use to catch the fish should also be larger. Longer baits, more rubber legs, large Chubs, Jumbo Leeches and of course larger hooks to accommodate these and other popular baits. This is where smart anglers will use all the "tools" at their disposal to get the fish to strike, tools like sinking lines, neutral weight flies, smaller diameter tippets, Intermediate lines and longer leaders to get to the fish without spooking them. The are more "educated" by the time July rolls around, being prepared with better "tools", using more stealth, and making a good fishing plan all make sense and will definitely get you more "action" in the course of a day afield.
The Mosquitos are still a major factor in any outdoor experience this season, take plenty of bug repellent to be most comfortable.
The "Hex Hatch" - (Hexigenia Limbata) - is on! In all the area streams and most of the lakes, even though there may still be some isolated pockets of Hexes coming off on area lakes for the next few weeks, they are , for the most part just beginning into their major portion of the hatch! The Hex emerge at dusk and continue throughout the first 2 hours or so of the night with a secondary hatch at about 2:00 am. Just about every fish in the lake will become surface oriented when the hatch is at it's peak - during this week or so the daytime fishing will be slow to nonexistent as the fish gorge themselves on the Hex Nymphs and Duns in the evenings.
Northern Pike action is good on many area lakes and rivers, a Double Bunny or Deceiver does well fished in the 5 to 10 foot depth range throughout most of the early morning hours. Concentrate on the heavier "Cabbage" patches in the weed flats. Most Northerns are "schooled up " in similar size ranges - if you start catching 15 to 18 inchers, move a short distance to locate the larger fish, the big ones tend to be loners, don't expect to find many of the 30 plus inch fish to be in the same spot. Bright colors are working best, a Chartreuse and Orange Bunny Bug or a Chartreuse and White Deceiver are still my most consistent patterns.
Since the hot weather has finally given way to cooler temps, the daytime fishing for Muskies has picked up quite a bit as the fish are now well into a summer feeding pattern. Many anglers are picking up good fish using deeper running crankbaits off sharp drop-offs, getting them down into the 8 to 12 foot depth range. Bucktails run over the weed tops in 5 to 8 feet of water are getting a lot of attention from good sized fish in weedier lakes. My best pattern in weedy lakes is a Perch colored Craft Fur Minnow, but recently an Edgewater Diver fished with a 9' 9 wt. rod and Full Intermediate Line fished aggressively just over the weed tops has brought some big fish up. Using a brisk retrieve with short sputtering twitches has been best, especially in the evenings. Some very large females in the very clear water deep lakes have moved off the shelves and sand beaches and are taking an interest in larger flies in a natural Perch or Sucker color. Use a wire leader system with 20# test Titanium tippet on a 6' leader with a 15 foot Sink-Tip line, give the fly a chance to sink about 4 or 5 feet before starting your retrieve and move it quickly with lots of twitches and pauses. Good evening top water action is being had on many of our lakes and rivers with Surf Plugs and other noise making large profile baits, especially as the Hex begin to emerge at dusk. High water in many rivers is offering a challenge to anglers which has not been seen for several years, larger, darker colored baits, will produce better than the smaller flies of past seasons. River Musky fishing is just hitting it's midsummer stride and will continue to improve over the next couple of months, higher water levels are allowing the Muskies in the rivers to spread out more and locate in log jams and brush piles. Even though all the fishing was down a bit this past week, we still managed to catch some nice fish in the rivers. Water temps hovered in the mid to upper 70's and the fishing was slow, but stealth and perseverance were the key to being successful during these high water times. We caught a very heavy fish this week on a Walleye colored Craft Fur Minnow fished on a full Intermediate line from an area river at the head of a deep pool. Mid sized flies are the key to success in rivers and lakes as the water levels increase.
Walleyes and Perch are beginning somewhat of a feeding frenzy on the Hex, most of the fish are in the weedy mud flats where getting a bait down to them is challenging, work the bait slowly and thoroughly through the weed edges. I have picked up some very good Walleyes in the area streams and rivers this past week where they seem to be a bit more aggressive and are taking small Deceivers (3" - 5") and other Minnow patterns well. Larger clearer, mostly sand bottomed lakes are seeing a good open water bite with smaller crankbaits run in the 12 to 18 foot depth range near drop offs and the deep sides of rock bars. Good action is coming early in the morning and late in the evening.
Smaller weedier lakes are fishing best with slip bobber techniques since the fish have spread out to forage throughout the weeds and mud flats. Wiggler patterns fished in 6 to 10 feet of water have been catching fish especially off points and throughout the flats in the early mornings. Many Walleyes are feeding throughout the mud flats in 6 to 12 feet of water taking the same baits and the occasional larger minnow pattern. These fish are widely scattered and the bite is light, but quite a few good sized fish are being caught.
Larger schools of Crappies are positioning in open water during the day and especially in the evenings near the thicker patches of weeds. Bluegills are beginning to disperse and scatter throughout the weedier portions of the lake basin as they begin to migrate to deeper water - Attention Anglers this is a key to your Musky fishing, follow the food for the most consistent action!
The Largemouth Bass are now feeding throughout the early morning hours on frogs, minnows and anything else they can get their mouths around. The topwater action for Largemouth Bass is still great. Many Smallmouth Bass have moved offshore and are hanging near drop offs and large boulders in the 8 to 12 foot depth range, drop a Crayfish pattern throughout these areas for your best results. Topwater action is good for Smallies in deeper bays in the evenings, there's nothing like watching them sneak up and suck in a popper from the surface! Many bass have also migrated upstream in the area rivers and creeks, I have had great success using a Green & White Deceiver for bass on the Manitowish River just upstream from Island Lake and in the stretch below highway 51 in Manitowish Waters - using Red/Yellow Deer hair poppers and Black/yellow Double Bunnies.
The smaller "carry in" and "bog" lakes that have been the most consistent and productive throughout the season, have waned a bit with the recent unsettled weather, but as the weather continues to stabilize the action on these fisheries will rebound very quickly! There are a lot of lakes with good Walleye, Bass and panfish populations which are producing some great catches. These "secret fisheries" are a very closely guarded secret among those anglers who frequent these bodies of water, but a little research with the DNR will reveal most of them in short order. A good concentration of these types of lakes lies just east of Boulder Junction off the Nixon Lake Road area.
As the daytime temperatures fluctuate the topwater fishing activity will rise and fall with weather changes, the fishing will again be most consistent in the evening hours.
TROUT:
Trout action always seems to wither and just about fade as the summer stretches on due to warmer water temperatures - which may reach critical stages in the heat of the summer. Most Mayfly hatches are past peak and it seems like the streams are now all "fished out", but I always catch my largest fish of the season during this time period. The streams and rivers will "heat load" just like the lakes all day and give off heat throughout the evening and night so the water is coolest in the early mornings before the suns warms it up again. I concentrate on the very early morning hours when the water is the coolest and the fish will be the most active. I also like to get out just before or during a rain shower (as long as there's no lightening!), the falling pressure, darker skies and windier conditions all add to the increased feeding activity of larger trout. Higher water levels have allowed the trout to be more comfortable and spread out much more than past seasons, especially to shaded areas of heavy brush. Remember, our trout populations are still low, even though the water levels are the best they have been in many years, so expect to find the trout scattered more throughout the river. Higher, faster water tends to move the trout closer tot he banks and mid stream obstructions, concentrate on the variances of depth in these areas for your largest fish. Terrestrial insects (Beetles, Ants, and Crickets) are becoming more abundant and will now make up the largest portion of a trouts diet, as the aquatic insect hatches wane, nature is providing another food source for the trout throughout the area.
Michigan:
U.P. fishing conditions have caught up with and in some cases passed Wisconsin's, Muskie and Northern Pike activity has picked up considerably in the past week. Walleyes are in the weeds and deeper drop-offs during the day and moving up onto the rock bars and points in the evenings. In the Cisco Chain the fish are beginning to stage on the deeper drop off points and moving up onto the flats in the early mornings and cooler evenings. Smallmouth Bass are holding in the log jams and rocky points along deeper banks and along the drop offs with more logs and other cover in the 8 to 12 foot depth range. Lake Gogebic is seeing some good Walleye fishing in the west end of the lake near the State Campground. Bluegills are beginning to migrate to deeper water, and the Smallmouth Bass fishing is still excellent on the east side of the lake and in the Slate River and Merriweather Creek mouths.
Trout
The "Hex Hatch" is on! Though not as prolific as in streams farther to the south, the Hex is still a major factor in streams with more silt than stone on the bottom. Portions of the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon and the Border Brule have areas of very good activity and they do attract larger Browns and big Brookies to these stretches for this hatch.
The Middle Branch of the Ontonagon below Bond and Agate Falls is still very consistent with good morning hatches of Pale Morning Duns, Caddis, Midges and some #10 Stone Flies. The water levels are very good, more consistent flows from the bottom draw dam at Bond Falls along with the cool nights and more comfortable daytime temperatures are contributing to pleasant days astream. Terrestrial insects (Beetles, Ants, and Crickets) are becoming more abundant and will now make up a larger portion of a trouts diet, as the aquatic insect hatches wane, nature is providing another food source for the trout throughout the area. Don't miss out on the Stonefly hatches going on now, these larger bugs are early this year and the trout have taken notice on many area streams! A #10 Stimulator is just the right size for larger trout willing to take a big bite - especially in the mornings when these insects emerge!
The Mosquitos and Deer Flies will have their way with you , come prepared to do battle with a swarm of biting bugs! Bring lots of Insect Repellent!!!
Sylvania:
Evening Topwater Bass fishing is excellent. Bluegills are beginning to move to deeper waters in all the Lakes. Clark Lake has the largest Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass of the tract - most of these fish are now taking surface baits very aggressively, the early mornings and evenings are the best times for surface feeding activity. During the day Tongue Depressors and Rubber Leg Buggers and especially the Black/Chartreuse color are taking many fish. Loon and Deer Island Lakes are hot right now for Smallies and Cory and West Bear are on fire for big Largemouth Bass!
The water is higher and cooler this week, the fish are holding in shallower water with more surface activity than the past week. Cooler air and water temperatures are holding the fish in shallow water early in the morning and in the evenings. I expect the fishing to improve as more consistent weather settles in.
- MORE NEXT WEEK - ]]>Muskie Flyfishing School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090524-211731
Fly Fishing for Muskies a 2 day Course
Professional Guide, Fishing Instructor, Master Fly Tyer, and IGFA World Line Class Record holder for Muskies. Bill is one one of the most accomplished, widely recognized, Musky Fly Fishing instructors in the country. Featured in the videos “Fish of 10,000 Casts”, “Fish Catching Flies”, “Proven Patterns” & “Larger Predator Patterns”.
Owner of We Tie It Fly Shop & Northern Adventures Guide Service.
The clinic itself will consist of classroom instruction, casting instruction and practice, and on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to hone your skills to make your Muskie Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient “big rod” casting techniques. On Monday evening a fly tying session will be held - bring your own vise and tools, Bill will provide all the materials and other needed equipment.
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of Lakes in the Boulder Junction, WI area. These lakes and a portion of the Manitowish River are rated as class “A” Musky water. They will also offer some excellent fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass.
This clinic is limited in number of participants and promises to sell out. Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill. There will be facilities for those wishing to bring their own boats. We encourage you to do so. There will also be boats available for rental.
This event is limited to 6 people. Pre-registration required to participate 50% deposit required at sign-up, balance due at start of course, credit cards accepted.
Register early, this course sells out every year!
*All other meals and accommodations are not covered in the cost
We recommend lodging at: Boulder Junction Motor Lodge in Boulder Jct. 715-385-2825 or contact the WI DNR for campground information at: 715-356-5211
For more information please contact: Bill Sherer’s We Tie It Fly Shop P.O. Box 516 Boulder Jct., WI 54512 phone: 715-385-0171 e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com - website: www.wetieit.com
Itinerary
Saturday: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction Get aquatinted & discuss current fishing conditions Lunch* (on your own) Classroom Instruction: Equipment - How to build and repair leaders Rods, Reels & Lines Flies - Sizes in relation to time of year Choosing colors and patterns
Approach - Stalking Muskies Blind fishing
Typical Musky concentration areas - Time of the year: Surface oriented fish Mid depth fish Deep water fish
Sunday: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction
Discuss current fishing conditions and approach
On the water - Put your lessons to the test
Lunch in the field - Covered in the cost of the Course
On the water - end session at 5:00 pm
Discussion of the day/course and observations ]]>Destination Fly Fishing Adventures
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-232001
]]>Smallmouth Bass Kickboat School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-211610
This course consists of classroom instruction, casting instruction and practice, and on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter. Hone your skills and get in on some of the latest techniques and one of the most exciting forms of Smalmouth Bass Flyfishing there is today!
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to sharpen your skills to make your River Smallmouth Bass Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient fly casting techniques. Along with proper kickboat techniques and tactics to enhance your ability to get into more fish and push the limits of your watercraft skills!
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of Rivers, these rivers are nationally known as some of the best Smallmouth Bass water in the state. They will also offer some fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Walleyes.
Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill. Since we have a limited number of kickboats we encourage you to bring your own boat (Wisconsin State Law demands you have a wearable PFD on your boat!). You must have a boat approved for whitewater use, please check with Bill before you come up with one!
Our Insurance States: No Float Tubes or Fins Allowed! Maximum class size 12
Lunches & drinks included Must be paid in full in advance, credit cards accepted.
5. Fly Casting (A) Developing good skills (B) Position Fishing
about 12:00 p.m. Lunch Break
about 1:00 p.m. Depart for river
Put Your Lessons to the test!
1. Kick Boat Control 2. Fishing Return about 8:00 p.m.
DAY 2 8:00 a.m. meet at shop 1. Equipment check 2. Discussion of previous days events 10:00 a.m. Leave for River Test Boats/Fish Course Ends @ about 5:30 p.m.
Recommended Equipment List 9’ 7 weight or 8 weight fly rods with weight forward floating lines (WF7F or WF8F) 9’ 2X and 3X Leaders and Tippet Material Check out the Blue Sky Furled Leaders, they’re great for this type of fishing!
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and insect repellent.
We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
Sinking Flies: #4 Tongue Depressors in Black, Olive, Brown, and Chartreuse, #4 Conehead Rubber Legged Wooly Buggers in Brown/Yellow and Black/Yellow #6 Clousers and Deceivers in Olive/White, Chartreuse/White, Yellow/White and Red/White Surface Flies: #6 Deer hair, Cork or Foam Poppers and Sliders with rubber legs in Brown, Olive, Orange, Chartreuse, and Black. #6 Sneaky Pete’s with rubber legs in Chartreuse, and White
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Smallmouth Bass waters throughout the country. ]]>Fly Fishing for Trout
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-192151
The Upper Penninsula of Michigan contains an abundance of some of the best wild Brook Trout water remaining in the Midwest. Join veteran Guides Bill Sherer & Company on a two day Adventure discovering the secrets of the “Jewels of the North” as we ply for Brookies in wild, scenic places seldom tred upon by other anglers!
Our course begins at the We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction, WI, just a short drive south of the central U.P. The course itself will consist of classroom instruction, casting instruction & practice, and lots of on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter. Hone your skills and learn how to locate and stalk wary Brook Trout in their natural element - the small, sometimes brush covered streams of the oldest mountain range in the U.S.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to sharpen your skills to make your trout fishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient fly casting techniques.
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of streams, these rivers are nationally known as some of the best Brook Trout water in the state. We expect to find some spectacular fishing in waters where your chances of hooking a trophy Brook Trout (14” or better) are possible.
You can expect to learn correct casting and fishing techniques for trout fishing throughout the country, especially in smaller brushy stream where casting and sight distances are limited.
Maximum class size 8
Lunches & drinks included Must be paid in full in advance, credit cards accepted.
3. Tactics (Reading the water) (A) fast water (B) slow water
4. Fly Casting (A) Developing good skills (B) Unique skills
About Noon Lunch Break - On your own
About 1:00 p.m. Depart for river
Put Your Lessons to the test!
1. Fishing
Return about 9:00 p.m.
DAY 2
8:00 a.m. meet at shop
1. Equipment check
2. Discussion of previous days events
9:00 a.m. Leave for River
Fish Course Ends @ about 6:00 p.m. ____________________________________________
Recommended Equipment List 7 1/2’ to 8’ - 3 weight or 4 weight fly rods with weight forward floating lines (WF3F or WF4F)
9’ 4X and 5X Leaders and Tippet Material
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and lots of insect repellent.
We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
Sinking Flies: #10 - 16 Pheasant Tail, Prince and Caddis Nymphs, #6 - 10 Feather Wing and Hair Wing Streamers,
Surface Flies: #10 - 16 Mayfly and Caddis Flies in a wide variety of Patterns
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Brook Trout waters throughout the country ]]>River Muskie Fly Fishing School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-164621
River/Kickboat Muskie Fly Fishing School a 2 day Clinic with Professional Instructor Captain Bill Sherer
River Muskie Men, this is it !!
River Muskies have their own quirks and desires, finding them can be as difficult as getting them to hit! It takes specialized tackle and the skills to use it, learn these skills and more from some of the best, most successful Muskie fly anglers in the world. Bill has been Guiding successful Muskie Fly Anglers on rivers for over 20 years!
Maximize your success
Learn their secrets for success, where to find the fish and what techniques and flies work the best and where the fish will be at certain times of the season. Late July is a great time to pursue Muskies on the great rivers of Northern Wisconsin, abundant food supplies and cooler water temperatures bring the fish upstream from nearby reservoirs to feed on the bounty of the rivers. We'll be there to intercept these fish as they ply the shady undercuts, log jams and rock piles in search of prey!
Professional Guide, Fishing Instructor, Master Fly Tyer, and IGFA World Line Class Record holder for Muskies. Bill is one one of the most accomplished, widely recognized, Musky Fly Fishing instructors in the country. Featured on "Fly Fishing America" and in the fly fishing and fly tying DVD's “Fish of 10,000 Casts”, “Fish Catching Flies”, “Proven Patterns” & “Larger Predator Patterns”. Owner of We Tie It Fly Shop & Northern Adventures Guide Service.
The clinic itself will consist of classroom instruction and hands on participation.
This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water with them immediately thereafter.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to hone your skills to make your Muskie Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient “big rod” casting techniques.
The Instructor will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing several of rivers or stretches of rivers in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. These rivers are rated as class “A” Musky water. They will also offer some excellent fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Smallmouth Bass.
This clinic is limited in number of participants and promises to sell out. Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill & Tom. We encourage you to bring their own kickboat, we have a limited number of boats for use during the class.
This event is limited to 8 people. Pre-registration required to participate 50% deposit required at sign-up, balance due at start of course, credit cards accepted.
For more information please contact: Bill Sherer’s We Tie It Fly Shop P.O. Box 516 Boulder Jct., WI 54512 phone: 715-385-0171 e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com
Itinerary
Sunday: 7:30 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction Get aquatinted & discuss current fishing conditions
Morning Classroom Instruction:
Equipment - How to build and repair leaders Rods, Reels & Lines
Flies - Sizes in relation to time of year Choosing colors and patterns
Approach - Stalking Muskies Blind fishing
Typical Musky concentration areas - Time of the year: Surface oriented fish Mid depth fish Deep water fish
Kickboat Inspection - Safety and Etiquette
Lunch on your own *All other meals and accommodations are not covered in the cost
1:00 pm Meet at Shop, load boats head for river Fish until dark (about 7:30 pm)
Monday: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction
Discuss current fishing conditions and approach
On the water - Fishing with instructor close by for help and one-on-one Instruction
Lunch in the field Covered in the cost of the Course Please let us know of any dietary restrictions you may have so we can plan for them.
On the water - end session at about 6:00 pm
Discussion of the day/course and observations
Recommended Equipment List
We recommend you bring 2 9’ 9 weight fly rods with weight forward Floating and Intermediate Tip lines (WF9F and WF9F/I) We will supply Leaders, Tippets & Flies and teach you how to rig them.
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and insect repellent. We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Muskie waters throughout the country. ]]>Florida Coastal Fly Fishing
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-162638
Where: Just 45 minutes east of Orlando on Florida's Space Coast. We're just 15 miles north of Cocoa Beach (home of Ron Jon's Surf Shop and Port Canaveral - where all the Cruise vessels depart). The Merritt island Wildlife Sanctuary is only minutes away, where you can see thousands of exotic wild birds, Alligators, Sea Turtles and a host of other interesting wildlife. Situated on the Indian River Lagoon, Titusville takes you back into Old Florida where life was simpler and the pace was very relaxed. Warm currents pushing in from the Gulf Stream bring an abundance of fish close to the coast, allowing migratory fish to cruise the famous Play-A-Linda Beach which runs for almost 50 miles unabated by buildings of any kind. The nearby Kennedy Space Center is an attraction you should not miss, daily tours will take you right up to the launching pads for the Space Shuttles and other fascinating sights.
The Fishing: The Indian River is the longest estuary in the United States, stretching from Jacksonville in the north almost to Fort Lauderdale in the south, and Titusville is right in the middle. The famous Mosquito Lagoon, just 5 miles to the north is known as the best trophy Redfish fishery in the world. From Daytona Beach to Cocoa Beach, there is no inlet or outlet to the ocean, making this fantastic fishery of nearly 50 miles almost landlocked - except for the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) which winds a channel through the center of the Mosquito and Indian River Lagoons. The fish grow big and fat on a steady diet of Shrimp, Blue Crabs, Mullet and a host of other organisms, and since they can't get out of the area, it's just a matter of finding a hungry school willing to take your fly. Don't be fooled by the terminology, the Indian River is as much as 7 miles wide in some places. The area I usually fish is spread out within a 50 mile long by 6 mile wide body of water dotted with Mangrove islands and Oyster bars, it can be overwhelming to the newcomer, I have fished this area for almost 20 years and I still don't know it all - but I do know where the fish are - most of the time! The water we will be fishing is 3 feet deep or less, a drop-off usually goes from about 10 inches to about 2 feet and a deep hole will be about 6 feet deep! Numerous boat landings allow me to get out of the wind and keep us in great water where the sight fishing is best and there is little or no traffic from other boats.
I recommend 8wt. or 9wt. fast action saltwater approved rods, Aluminum hardware will keep the saltwater from invading wood reel seats and the like. A good Disc Drag reel is essential, with Floating and Ghost Tip lines and 8 to 10 foot 12 to 20 pound test leaders. An average 6 to 10 pound Redfish will tear off 40 to 80 yards of line before you can stop it, reel spools that can hold 100 or more yards of 20# test backing are a must! Cold water lines will work best, this is winter fishing, even though the daytime temperatures usually top out at around 74 degrees and average lows are in the mid 50's! Most casting distances are about 30 to 60 feet, and accuracy counts when sight fishing, a long accurate cast is better than trying to get in real tight to the fish and risk spooking them. It is always windy on the ocean! Don't be fooled by all those magazine photos, the wind is always a factor, we'll get out of it whenever possible, it's usually not blowing real hard, but it's almost always there. Most of the Redfish flies we will cast will be on #6 to #2 hooks, mostly Clouser style with weighted eyes to get to the bottom quickly. We will be fishing from my 18' Lowe flats boat with a Yamaha 25 Hp outboard and wading throughout the time period. Lightweight waders are optional, a good flats style boot is recommended. The bottom is sometimes a bit squishy, but not real soft, in some places you may sink in a couple of inches, but usually not more than about 6, in softer areas we will stay in the boat. We may get a shot at a Tarpon but this usually only happens in early December. Snook, Speckled Seatrout & Redfish are our most likely targets. Sometimes we chance upon some exotic fish, Jacks, Ladyfish, Mangrove Snapper and even some Puffers - watch your fingers! I will spot fish from the poling platform and direct your cast to the target, it's great fun to hook up with a Red that will rip your line out faster than any Salmon you ever had on! Schools of hungry Jack Cravelle can suddenly come from nowhere to attack en-mass, the action can be fast and furious and then just as suddenly as they appeared, they're gone, chasing the pod of baitfish they were on. Occasionally a school of big Bull Reds will show up tailing in as much as 4 feet of water, I keep my powerful Muskie Master rigged with a sink-tip line just for such chance encounters, a heavily weighted shrimp pattern will usually get a take from one of these monsters which may weigh as much as 50 pounds!
When: Anytime throughout the winter months - December 5th through March 5th, 2007/2008
Itinerary
Fly into Orlando International Airport on an afternoon/evening plane, I will prearrange with you the time of your arrival and meet you at the airport, I'll drop you off at your hotel in Titusville. At 7:00 am (eastern time), I'll pick you up and we'll head out to go fishing for the day. We'll have lunch in the field (let me know your drink and sandwich preferences ahead of time), and continue fishing until about just before dark. I'll drop you off at your hotel and you will have the rest of the evening to yourself. We'll do this for 3 days, I hope you can handle all those fish! You'll check out of your hotel on the 4th morning, I'll take you back to OIA and send you back to that cold winter up north! You'll be tanned, warm and satisfied by the time you get home, your friends will be jealous and you'll have some fantastic fishing stories to tell, along with all your pictures and maybe even some video. If you wish, car rentals are available at the airport.
Cost per person: $750.00 per person Double Occupancy Single Occupancy: $1200.00
Cost includes: Guide Fees, Lunches, Flies & tackle (if needed), Boat & fuel and transportation to and from the Airport.
Transportation to Florida and your fishing license is your responsibility. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at: www.myfwc.com or by calling 1-888-347-4356
To reserve a Trip:
phone: 1-715-385-0171 (it rings through to my Florida residence) or e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com ]]>Big Horn River Trips
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-081224
If you’ve ever thought about flyfishing a great western river, but didn’t know who to contact or how to get there, here’s your chance to go on a dream trip with Instructors you know and trust. Join us for some fantastic fishing and beautiful scenery in one of the premier trout fisheries of the world.
Includes the following: 4 nights Lodging : Double Occupancy per room All meals: (Continental Breakfast), Box Lunch, Dinner All Instruction, Guides, Drift Boats & Necessary Flies
The Big Horn River is one of the best tailwater fisheries in the world, it is known for it’s huge populations of Rainbow and Brown trout, roughly 5,000 per mile! The most popular portion of this fishery is about 13 miles long, from the Afterbay/Yellowtail Dam at Old Fort Smith, Montana to the 13 mile “Big Horn” takeout point. Another very good stretch of river extends about 9 miles downstream from the Big Horn Landing to the Mallards Landing, though not as popular with other anglers I have found it to be an excellent spring fishery with much less traffic and plenty of opportunities for catching fat Browns and Rainbows.
Nymph & Streamer fishing is usually done throughout the year with some dry fly fishing. Small Scuds and Midges are the most popular flies. 9’ 5 wt. & 6 wt. rods are most common. The River is very easy to float with no major rapids throughout it’s entire length, many anglers compare the Big Horn to an extra large spring creek! We will be there for the early spawn Rainbow Trout fishing, the fish are beginning to become aggressive at this time!
Using a combination of wade and drift boat methods, we will instruct you in techniques used for fly fishing large western tailwaters. Dry fly and nymph fishing for Browns & Rainbows averaging 3 pounds is excellent as many fish are moving in anticipation of the spring spawn. Last year we had some fantastic days of dry fly Midge and BWO fishing. Low springtime water flows contribute to easy wading with many successful days.
This is Eastern Montana, the “Banana Belt”, the normal daytime temperature in mid April is usually from the mid 40’s to mid 70’s, I have seen it snow and I have also seen the temperature be in the mid 80’s during this time of the year. As the temperature warms in the middle of the day the Browns come into the banks and may viciously attack streamers.
Daily commercial airline flights arrive at Billings about 1 1/2 hours away.
For more information or to make your reservations please call: 1-715-385-0171
Itinerary: Arrive at Fort Smith / Yellowtail, MT: (The Big Horn Trout Shop & Lodge) afternoon/evening - Most Guests arrive about 2:00 pm. We will be able to do some wade fishing before dinner in the late afternoon - Dinner is usually late, around 8:00 pm. Before Dinner we convene in my room to go over the events the next day, set tackle & have cocktails (B.Y.O.B.)
Day 1: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 2: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 3: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 4: Continental Breakfast, Pack-up and depart by noon
Here are some helpful hints for your upcoming fishing trip on the Bighorn River.
We had very successful trips last year and look forward to even better trips this year. Most of the fish we caught were on nymphs. The nymphs were Red or Orange Midge Larva #18, Pink or Orange Scuds #14 and Gray Sowbugs #16. We fished these deep and slow on 9’ 4X leaders with 3’ extension butts with a strike indicator set at about 9’ and a dropper about 14” below the point fly, usually the Scud on top and the Midge on the bottom. We also dropped a Scud off a Pheasant Tail Nymph about the same distance.
We expect great dry fly action again this year, probably with #22 - #16 Midges and BWO’s. Our groups had some great success with Midges & BWO’s in some very shallow water sight fishing to rising Browns and Rainbows. Once hooked the fish fought very hard and we had great fun trying to land them on 4 to 6 lb. test tippets, I’m sure we will encounter similar fishing this year. Accurate casts will still be required, but I don’t think they will have to be as long as we have experimented with some emerger patterns which are more successful. When setting the hook with these light tippets all you do is raise the rod, don’t try to drive the hook home, it’s not necessary, all that will do is break the line, the fish will hook themselves.
We recommend you bring two rods, one rigged for the dries and one rigged for nymphs or streamers, this way as we’re drifting down the river you can change rods as the conditions change and you won’t waste any time re-rigging a rod. The Rods we recommend are a 9’ 5 wt. for the dries and a 9’ 6 wt. for the nymphs and streamers. The heavier rod will double as a streamer rod which we should have time to re-rig as we locate fish holding in skinny water eager to take a streamer. We use only weight forward floating lines and see no need for any sinking tips or such. Your strike indicators should be rather large to float the nymphs just above the bottom, and still allow a good drag-free drift, I prefer the yarn type that loop onto the leader.
We found if helpful to use fingerless gloves, neck muffs, fleece pants (under our waders), and lightweight rain jackets to protect from the wind. By the way, the wind always blows out there. The temperatures can vary from the 40’s to the 80’s in the course of the day so be prepared to shed some layers of clothing as the day progresses, towards evening as the sun sets the temps will begin to go down again and you may have to put some clothes back on to remain comfortable. High tech fleece and polypro fabrics are lightweight and very durable, they wick moisture away from your body so you can stay comfortable all day.
The food is very good with plenty to fill you up after a day of fishing, the people in the lodge and fly shop are very friendly and will help you with anything you may need. The lunches are immense and you probably won’t eat all of it, but you might be able to trade me your cookies for my apple!
The accommodations are very comfortable, the rooms are large with plenty of room to spread out and relax. We will have cocktails and/or fly tying in my room every evening before dinner, and more revelry after. This is a dry county so please bring any alcoholic beverages you may want with you, the closest retailer is about 1 hour away.
The air is very dry and we recommend you bring plenty of your favorite hand and skin lotion. Remember to drink plenty of fluids during the day so you don’t get dehydrated.
Large brimmed hat Polarized Sun Glasses Neck Gaiter/Bandana
Fingerless Gloves Rain Jacket Camera (waterproof)
Hand Lotion Sunscreen Lip Balm
We also suggest a small waterproof bag to hold any personal items you may want while out for the day.
Our average Rainbow is about 20” and the Browns average about 17”, most anglers catch about 5 to 10 fish per day. Like all fishing, some days are better than others, your Instructors will be near you to demonstrate techniques and help you with your fishing, casting and mending skills. We hope you will come away from the Big Horn River with the skills needed to fish any large western river or tailwater - reading the water, and making the cast to the best holding lies are just a portion of what you can expect to take home from this exciting adventure! ]]>Walleye Fly Fishing
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-075552
]]>Florida Coastal Fly Fishing
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-074928
Where: Just 45 minutes east of Orlando on Florida's Space Coast. We're just 15 miles north of Cocoa Beach (home of Ron Jon's Surf Shop and Port Canaveral - where all the Cruise vessels depart). The Merritt island Wildlife Sanctuary is only minutes away, where you can see thousands of exotic wild birds, Alligators, Sea Turtles and a host of other interesting wildlife. Situated on the Indian River Lagoon, Titusville takes you back into Old Florida where life was simpler and the pace was very relaxed. Warm currents pushing in from the Gulf Stream bring an abundance of fish close to the coast, allowing migratory fish to cruise the famous Play-A-Linda Beach which runs for almost 50 miles unabated by buildings of any kind. The nearby Kennedy Space Center is an attraction you should not miss, daily tours will take you right up to the launching pads for the Space Shuttles and other fascinating sights.
The Fishing: The Indian River is the longest estuary in the United States, stretching from Jacksonville in the north almost to Fort Lauderdale in the south, and Titusville is right in the middle. The famous Mosquito Lagoon, just 5 miles to the north is known as the best trophy Redfish fishery in the world. From Daytona Beach to Cocoa Beach, there is no inlet or outlet to the ocean, making this fantastic fishery of nearly 50 miles almost landlocked - except for the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) which winds a channel through the center of the Mosquito and Indian River Lagoons. The fish grow big and fat on a steady diet of Shrimp, Blue Crabs, Mullet and a host of other organisms, and since they can't get out of the area, it's just a matter of finding a hungry school willing to take your fly. Don't be fooled by the terminology, the Indian River is as much as 7 miles wide in some places. The area I usually fish is spread out within a 50 mile long by 6 mile wide body of water dotted with Mangrove islands and Oyster bars, it can be overwhelming to the newcomer, I have fished this area for almost 20 years and I still don't know it all - but I do know where the fish are - most of the time! The water we will be fishing is 3 feet deep or less, a drop-off usually goes from about 10 inches to about 2 feet and a deep hole will be about 6 feet deep! Numerous boat landings allow me to get out of the wind and keep us in great water where the sight fishing is best and there is little or no traffic from other boats.
I recommend 7wt. or 8wt. fast action saltwater approved rods, Aluminum hardware will keep the saltwater from invading wood reel seats and the like. A good Disc Drag reel is essential, with Floating and Ghost Tip lines and 8 to 10 foot 12 to 20 pound test leaders. An average 6 to 10 pound Redfish will tear off 40 to 80 yards of line before you can stop it, reel spools that can hold 100 or more yards of 20# test backing are a must! Cold water lines will work best, this is winter fishing, even though the daytime temperatures usually top out at around 74 degrees and average lows are in the mid 50's! Most casting distances are about 30 to 60 feet, and accuracy counts when sight fishing, a long accurate cast is better than trying to get in real tight to the fish and risk spooking them. It is always windy on the ocean! Don't be fooled by all those magazine photos, the wind is always a factor, we'll get out of it whenever possible, it's usually not blowing real hard, but it's almost always there. Most of the Redfish flies we will cast will be on #6 to #2 hooks, mostly Clouser style with weighted eyes to get to the bottom quickly. We will be fishing from my 18' Lowe flats boat with a Yamaha 25 Hp outboard and wading throughout the time period. Lightweight waders are optional, a good flats style boot is recommended. The bottom is sometimes a bit squishy, but not real soft, in some places you may sink in a couple of inches, but usually not more than about 6, in softer areas we will stay in the boat. We may get a shot at a Tarpon but this usually only happens in early December. Snook, Speckled Seatrout & Redfish are our most likely targets. Sometimes we chance upon some exotic fish, Jacks, Ladyfish, Mangrove Snapper and even some Puffers - watch your fingers! I will spot fish from the poling platform and direct your cast to the target, it's great fun to hook up with a Red that will rip your line out faster than any Salmon you ever had on! Schools of hungry Jack Cravelle can suddenly come from nowhere to attack en-mass, the action can be fast and furious and then just as suddenly as they appeared, they're gone, chasing the pod of baitfish they were on. Occasionally a school of big Bull Reds will show up tailing in as much as 4 feet of water, I keep my powerful Muskie Master rigged with a sink-tip line just for such chance encounters, a heavily weighted shrimp pattern will usually get a take from one of these monsters which may weigh as much as 50 pounds!
When: Anytime throughout the winter months - November 15th through March 25th
Itinerary
Fly into Orlando International Airport on an afternoon/evening plane, I will prearrange with you the time of your arrival and meet you at the airport, I'll drop you off at your hotel in Titusville. At 7:00 am (eastern time), I'll pick you up and we'll head out to go fishing for the day. We'll have lunch in the field (let me know your drink and sandwich preferences ahead of time), and continue fishing until about just before dark. I'll drop you off at your hotel and you will have the rest of the evening to yourself. We'll do this for as many days as you can stand, I hope you can handle all those fish! You'll check out of your hotel on the 4th morning, I'll take you back to OIA and send you back to that cold winter up north! You'll be tanned, warm and satisfied by the time you get home, your friends will be jealous and you'll have some fantastic fishing stories to tell, along with all your pictures and maybe even some video. If you wish, car rentals are available at the airport.
Cost includes: Guide Fees, Lunches, Flies & tackle (if needed), Boat & fuel and transportation to and from the Airport, (if desired).
Transportation to Florida and your fishing license is your responsibility. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at: www.myfwc.com or by calling 1-888-347-4356
To reserve a Trip:
phone: 1-715-385-0171 (it rings through to my Florida residence) or e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com ]]>River Kickboat/Smallmouth Bass School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-074442
This course consists of classroom instruction, casting instruction and practice, and on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter. Hone your skills and get in on some of the latest techniques and one of the most exciting forms of Smalmouth Bass Flyfishing there is today!
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to sharpen your skills to make your River Smallmouth Bass Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient fly casting techniques. Along with proper kickboat techniques and tactics to enhance your ability to get into more fish and push the limits of your watercraft skills!
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of Rivers, these rivers are nationally known as some of the best Smallmouth Bass water in the state. They will also offer some fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Walleyes.
Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill. Since we have a limited number of kickboats we encourage you to bring your own boat (Wisconsin State Law demands you have a wearable PFD on your boat!). You must have a boat approved for whitewater use, please check with Bill before you come up with one!
Our Insurance States: No Float Tubes or Fins Allowed! Maximum class size 12
Lunches & drinks included Must be paid in full in advance, credit cards accepted.
5. Fly Casting (A) Developing good skills (B) Position Fishing
about 12:00 p.m. Lunch Break
about 1:00 p.m. Depart for river
Put Your Lessons to the test!
1. Kick Boat Control 2. Fishing Return about 8:00 p.m.
DAY 2 8:00 a.m. meet at shop 1. Equipment check 2. Discussion of previous days events 10:00 a.m. Leave for River Test Boats/Fish Course Ends @ about 5:30 p.m.
Recommended Equipment List 9’ 7 weight or 8 weight fly rods with weight forward floating lines (WF7F or WF8F) 9’ 2X and 3X Leaders and Tippet Material Check out the Blue Sky Furled Leaders, they’re great for this type of fishing!
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and insect repellent.
We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
Sinking Flies: #4 Tongue Depressors in Black, Olive, Brown, and Chartreuse, #4 Conehead Rubber Legged Wooly Buggers in Brown/Yellow and Black/Yellow #6 Clousers and Deceivers in Olive/White, Chartreuse/White, Yellow/White and Red/White Surface Flies: #6 Deer hair, Cork or Foam Poppers and Sliders with rubber legs in Brown, Olive, Orange, Chartreuse, and Black. #6 Sneaky Pete’s with rubber legs in Chartreuse, and White
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Smallmouth Bass waters throughout the country. ]]>River Muskie Fly Fishing School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-073141
River/Kickboat Muskie Fly Fishing School a 2 day Clinic with Professional Instructor Captain Bill Sherer
River Muskie Men, this is it !!
River Muskies have their own quirks and desires, finding them can be as difficult as getting them to hit! It takes specialized tackle and the skills to use it, learn these skills and more from some of the best, most successful Muskie fly anglers in the world. Bill has been Guiding successful Muskie Fly Anglers on rivers for over 20 years!
Maximize your success
Learn their secrets for success, where to find the fish and what techniques and flies work the best and where the fish will be at certain times of the season. Late July is a great time to pursue Muskies on the great rivers of Northern Wisconsin, abundant food supplies and cooler water temperatures bring the fish upstream from nearby reservoirs to feed on the bounty of the rivers. We'll be there to intercept these fish as they ply the shady undercuts, log jams and rock piles in search of prey!
Professional Guide, Fishing Instructor, Master Fly Tyer, and IGFA World Line Class Record holder for Muskies. Bill is one one of the most accomplished, widely recognized, Musky Fly Fishing instructors in the country. Featured on "Fly Fishing America" and in the fly fishing and fly tying DVD's “Fish of 10,000 Casts”, “Fish Catching Flies”, “Proven Patterns” & “Larger Predator Patterns”. Owner of We Tie It Fly Shop & Northern Adventures Guide Service.
The clinic itself will consist of classroom instruction and hands on participation.
This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water with them immediately thereafter.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to hone your skills to make your Muskie Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient “big rod” casting techniques.
The Instructor will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing several of rivers or stretches of rivers in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. These rivers are rated as class “A” Musky water. They will also offer some excellent fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Smallmouth Bass.
This clinic is limited in number of participants and promises to sell out. Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill & Tom. We encourage you to bring their own kickboat, we have a limited number of boats for use during the class.
This event is limited to 8 people. Pre-registration required to participate 50% deposit required at sign-up, balance due at start of course, credit cards accepted.
For more information please contact: Bill Sherer’s We Tie It Fly Shop P.O. Box 516 Boulder Jct., WI 54512 phone: 715-385-0171 e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com
Itinerary
Sunday: 7:30 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction Get aquatinted & discuss current fishing conditions
Morning Classroom Instruction:
Equipment - How to build and repair leaders Rods, Reels & Lines
Flies - Sizes in relation to time of year Choosing colors and patterns
Approach - Stalking Muskies Blind fishing
Typical Musky concentration areas - Time of the year: Surface oriented fish Mid depth fish Deep water fish
Kickboat Inspection - Safety and Etiquette
Lunch on your own *All other meals and accommodations are not covered in the cost
1:00 pm Meet at Shop, load boats head for river Fish until dark (about 7:30 pm)
Monday: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction
Discuss current fishing conditions and approach
On the water - Fishing with instructor close by for help and one-on-one Instruction
Lunch in the field Covered in the cost of the Course Please let us know of any dietary restrictions you may have so we can plan for them.
On the water - end session at about 6:00 pm
Discussion of the day/course and observations
Recommended Equipment List
We recommend you bring 2 9’ 9 weight fly rods with weight forward Floating and Intermediate Tip lines (WF9F and WF9F/I) We will supply Leaders, Tippets & Flies and teach you how to rig them.
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and insect repellent. We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Muskie waters throughout the country.]]>Big Horn River Destination Adventure
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-072946
If you’ve ever thought about flyfishing a great western river, but didn’t know who to contact or how to get there, here’s your chance to go on a dream trip with Instructors you know and trust. Join us for some fantastic fishing and beautiful scenery in one of the premier trout fisheries of the world.
Includes the following: 4 nights Lodging : Double Occupancy per room All meals: (Continental Breakfast), Box Lunch, Dinner All Instruction, Guides, Drift Boats & Necessary Flies
The Big Horn River is one of the best tailwater fisheries in the world, it is known for it’s huge populations of Rainbow and Brown trout, roughly 5,000 per mile! The most popular portion of this fishery is about 13 miles long, from the Afterbay/Yellowtail Dam at Old Fort Smith, Montana to the 13 mile “Big Horn” takeout point. Another very good stretch of river extends about 9 miles downstream from the Big Horn Landing to the Mallards Landing, though not as popular with other anglers I have found it to be an excellent spring fishery with much less traffic and plenty of opportunities for catching fat Browns and Rainbows.
Nymph & Streamer fishing is usually done throughout the year with some dry fly fishing. Small Scuds and Midges are the most popular flies. 9’ 5 wt. & 6 wt. rods are most common. The River is very easy to float with no major rapids throughout it’s entire length, many anglers compare the Big Horn to an extra large spring creek! We will be there for the early spawn Rainbow Trout fishing, the fish are beginning to become aggressive at this time!
Using a combination of wade and drift boat methods, we will instruct you in techniques used for fly fishing large western tailwaters. Dry fly and nymph fishing for Browns & Rainbows averaging 3 pounds is excellent as many fish are moving in anticipation of the spring spawn. Last year we had some fantastic days of dry fly Midge and BWO fishing. Low springtime water flows contribute to easy wading with many successful days.
This is Eastern Montana, the “Banana Belt”, the normal daytime temperature in mid April is usually from the mid 40’s to mid 70’s, I have seen it snow and I have also seen the temperature be in the mid 80’s during this time of the year. As the temperature warms in the middle of the day the Browns come into the banks and may viciously attack streamers.
Daily commercial airline flights arrive at Billings about 1 1/2 hours away.
For more information or to make your reservations please call: 1-715-385-0171
Itinerary: Arrive at Fort Smith / Yellowtail, MT: (The Big Horn Trout Shop & Lodge) afternoon/evening - Most Guests arrive about 2:00 pm. We will be able to do some wade fishing before dinner in the late afternoon - Dinner is usually late, around 8:00 pm. Before Dinner we convene in my room to go over the events the next day, set tackle & have cocktails (B.Y.O.B.)
Day 1: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 2: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 3: Fish!!! Roughly 9:00 am - 6:00 pm our vehicles will be waiting at the takeout to bring us back to the lodge. Clean up for cocktails (BYOB), Dinner about 7:30 pm.
Day 4: Continental Breakfast, Pack-up and depart by noon
Here are some helpful hints for your upcoming fishing trip on the Bighorn River.
We had very successful trips last year and look forward to even better trips this year. Most of the fish we caught were on nymphs. The nymphs were Red or Orange Midge Larva #18, Pink or Orange Scuds #14 and Gray Sowbugs #16. We fished these deep and slow on 9’ 4X leaders with 3’ extension butts with a strike indicator set at about 9’ and a dropper about 14” below the point fly, usually the Scud on top and the Midge on the bottom. We also dropped a Scud off a Pheasant Tail Nymph about the same distance.
We expect great dry fly action again this year, probably with #22 - #16 Midges and BWO’s. Our groups had some great success with Midges & BWO’s in some very shallow water sight fishing to rising Browns and Rainbows. Once hooked the fish fought very hard and we had great fun trying to land them on 4 to 6 lb. test tippets, I’m sure we will encounter similar fishing this year. Accurate casts will still be required, but I don’t think they will have to be as long as we have experimented with some emerger patterns which are more successful. When setting the hook with these light tippets all you do is raise the rod, don’t try to drive the hook home, it’s not necessary, all that will do is break the line, the fish will hook themselves.
We recommend you bring two rods, one rigged for the dries and one rigged for nymphs or streamers, this way as we’re drifting down the river you can change rods as the conditions change and you won’t waste any time re-rigging a rod. The Rods we recommend are a 9’ 5 wt. for the dries and a 9’ 6 wt. for the nymphs and streamers. The heavier rod will double as a streamer rod which we should have time to re-rig as we locate fish holding in skinny water eager to take a streamer. We use only weight forward floating lines and see no need for any sinking tips or such. Your strike indicators should be rather large to float the nymphs just above the bottom, and still allow a good drag-free drift, I prefer the yarn type that loop onto the leader.
We found if helpful to use fingerless gloves, neck muffs, fleece pants (under our waders), and lightweight rain jackets to protect from the wind. By the way, the wind always blows out there. The temperatures can vary from the 40’s to the 80’s in the course of the day so be prepared to shed some layers of clothing as the day progresses, towards evening as the sun sets the temps will begin to go down again and you may have to put some clothes back on to remain comfortable. High tech fleece and polypro fabrics are lightweight and very durable, they wick moisture away from your body so you can stay comfortable all day.
The food is very good with plenty to fill you up after a day of fishing, the people in the lodge and fly shop are very friendly and will help you with anything you may need. The lunches are immense and you probably won’t eat all of it, but you might be able to trade me your cookies for my apple!
The accommodations are very comfortable, the rooms are large with plenty of room to spread out and relax. We will have cocktails and/or fly tying in my room every evening before dinner, and more revelry after. This is a dry county so please bring any alcoholic beverages you may want with you, the closest retailer is about 1 hour away.
The air is very dry and we recommend you bring plenty of your favorite hand and skin lotion. Remember to drink plenty of fluids during the day so you don’t get dehydrated.
Large brimmed hat Polarized Sun Glasses Neck Gaiter/Bandana
Fingerless Gloves Rain Jacket Camera (waterproof)
Hand Lotion Sunscreen Lip Balm
We also suggest a small waterproof bag to hold any personal items you may want while out for the day.
Our average Rainbow is about 20” and the Browns average about 17”, most anglers catch about 5 to 10 fish per day. Like all fishing, some days are better than others, your Instructors will be near you to demonstrate techniques and help you with your fishing, casting and mending skills. We hope you will come away from the Big Horn River with the skills needed to fish any large western river or tailwater - reading the water, and making the cast to the best holding lies are just a portion of what you can expect to take home from this exciting adventure! ]]>Florida Coastal Fly Fishing
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-072510
Where: Just 45 minutes east of Orlando on Florida's Space Coast. We're just 15 miles north of Cocoa Beach (home of Ron Jon's Surf Shop and Port Canaveral - where all the Cruise vessels depart). The Merritt island Wildlife Sanctuary is only minutes away, where you can see thousands of exotic wild birds, Alligators, Sea Turtles and a host of other interesting wildlife. Situated on the Indian River Lagoon, Titusville takes you back into Old Florida where life was simpler and the pace was very relaxed. Warm currents pushing in from the Gulf Stream bring an abundance of fish close to the coast, allowing migratory fish to cruise the famous Play-A-Linda Beach which runs for almost 50 miles unabated by buildings of any kind. The nearby Kennedy Space Center is an attraction you should not miss, daily tours will take you right up to the launching pads for the Space Shuttles and other fascinating sights.
The Fishing: The Indian River is the longest estuary in the United States, stretching from Jacksonville in the north almost to Fort Lauderdale in the south, and Titusville is right in the middle. The famous Mosquito Lagoon, just 5 miles to the north is known as the best trophy Redfish fishery in the world. From Daytona Beach to Cocoa Beach, there is no inlet or outlet to the ocean, making this fantastic fishery of nearly 50 miles almost landlocked - except for the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) which winds a channel through the center of the Mosquito and Indian River Lagoons. The fish grow big and fat on a steady diet of Shrimp, Blue Crabs, Mullet and a host of other organisms, and since they can't get out of the area, it's just a matter of finding a hungry school willing to take your fly. Don't be fooled by the terminology, the Indian River is as much as 7 miles wide in some places. The area I usually fish is spread out within a 50 mile long by 6 mile wide body of water dotted with Mangrove islands and Oyster bars, it can be overwhelming to the newcomer, I have fished this area for almost 20 years and I still don't know it all - but I do know where the fish are - most of the time! The water we will be fishing is 3 feet deep or less, a drop-off usually goes from about 10 inches to about 2 feet and a deep hole will be about 6 feet deep! Numerous boat landings allow me to get out of the wind and keep us in great water where the sight fishing is best and there is little or no traffic from other boats.
I recommend 7wt. or 8wt. fast action saltwater approved rods, Aluminum hardware will keep the saltwater from invading wood reel seats and the like. A good Disc Drag reel is essential, with Floating and Ghost Tip lines and 8 to 10 foot 12 to 20 pound test leaders. An average 6 to 10 pound Redfish will tear off 40 to 80 yards of line before you can stop it, reel spools that can hold 100 or more yards of 20# test backing are a must! Cold water lines will work best, this is winter fishing, even though the daytime temperatures usually top out at around 74 degrees and average lows are in the mid 50's! Most casting distances are about 30 to 60 feet, and accuracy counts when sight fishing, a long accurate cast is better than trying to get in real tight to the fish and risk spooking them. It is always windy on the ocean! Don't be fooled by all those magazine photos, the wind is always a factor, we'll get out of it whenever possible, it's usually not blowing real hard, but it's almost always there. Most of the Redfish flies we will cast will be on #6 to #2 hooks, mostly Clouser style with weighted eyes to get to the bottom quickly. We will be fishing from my 18' Lowe flats boat with a Yamaha 25 Hp outboard and wading throughout the time period. Lightweight waders are optional, a good flats style boot is recommended. The bottom is sometimes a bit squishy, but not real soft, in some places you may sink in a couple of inches, but usually not more than about 6, in softer areas we will stay in the boat. We may get a shot at a Tarpon but this usually only happens in early December. Snook, Speckled Seatrout & Redfish are our most likely targets. Sometimes we chance upon some exotic fish, Jacks, Ladyfish, Mangrove Snapper and even some Puffers - watch your fingers! I will spot fish from the poling platform and direct your cast to the target, it's great fun to hook up with a Red that will rip your line out faster than any Salmon you ever had on! Schools of hungry Jack Cravelle can suddenly come from nowhere to attack en-mass, the action can be fast and furious and then just as suddenly as they appeared, they're gone, chasing the pod of baitfish they were on. Occasionally a school of big Bull Reds will show up tailing in as much as 4 feet of water, I keep my powerful Muskie Master rigged with a sink-tip line just for such chance encounters, a heavily weighted shrimp pattern will usually get a take from one of these monsters which may weigh as much as 50 pounds!
When: Anytime throughout the winter months - December 5th through March 25th
Itinerary
Fly into Orlando International Airport on an afternoon/evening plane, I will prearrange with you the time of your arrival and meet you at the airport, I'll drop you off at your hotel in Titusville. At 7:00 am (eastern time), I'll pick you up and we'll head out to go fishing for the day. We'll have lunch in the field (let me know your drink and sandwich preferences ahead of time), and continue fishing until about just before dark. I'll drop you off at your hotel and you will have the rest of the evening to yourself. We'll do this for as many days as you wish, I hope you can handle all those fish! You'll check out of your hotel on the 4th morning, I'll take you back to OIA and send you back to that cold winter up north! You'll be tanned, warm and satisfied by the time you get home, your friends will be jealous and you'll have some fantastic fishing stories to tell, along with all your pictures and maybe even some video. If you wish, car rentals are available at the airport.
Transportation to Florida and your fishing license is your responsibility. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at: www.myfwc.com or by calling 1-888-347-4356
To reserve a Trip:
phone: 1-715-385-0171 (it rings through to my Florida residence) or e-mail: wetieit@wetieit.com
]]>Fly Fishing for Trout School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-072125
The Upper Penninsula of Michigan contains an abundance of some of the best wild Brook Trout water remaining in the Midwest. Join veteran Guides Bill Sherer & Company on a two day Adventure discovering the secrets of the “Jewels of the North” as we ply for Brookies in wild, scenic places seldom tred upon by other anglers!
Our course begins at the We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction, WI, just a short drive south of the central U.P. The course itself will consist of classroom instruction, casting instruction & practice, and lots of on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter. Hone your skills and learn how to locate and stalk wary Brook Trout in their natural element - the small, sometimes brush covered streams of the oldest mountain range in the U.S.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to sharpen your skills to make your trout fishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient fly casting techniques.
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of streams, these rivers are nationally known as some of the best Brook Trout water in the state. We expect to find some spectacular fishing in waters where your chances of hooking a trophy Brook Trout (14” or better) are possible.
You can expect to learn correct casting and fishing techniques for trout fishing throughout the country, especially in smaller brushy stream where casting and sight distances are limited.
Maximum class size 8
Lunches & drinks included Must be paid in full in advance, credit cards accepted.
3. Tactics (Reading the water) (A) fast water (B) slow water
4. Fly Casting (A) Developing good skills (B) Unique skills
About Noon Lunch Break - On your own
About 1:00 p.m. Depart for river
Put Your Lessons to the test!
1. Fishing
Return about 9:00 p.m.
DAY 2
8:00 a.m. meet at shop
1. Equipment check
2. Discussion of previous days events
9:00 a.m. Leave for River
Fish Course Ends @ about 6:00 p.m. ____________________________________________
Recommended Equipment List 7 1/2’ to 8’ - 3 weight or 4 weight fly rods with weight forward floating lines (WF3F or WF4F)
9’ 4X and 5X Leaders and Tippet Material
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and lots of insect repellent.
We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
Sinking Flies: #10 - 16 Pheasant Tail, Prince and Caddis Nymphs, #6 - 10 Feather Wing and Hair Wing Streamers,
Surface Flies: #10 - 16 Mayfly and Caddis Flies in a wide variety of Patterns
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Brook Trout waters throughout the country ]]>Lake Muskie Flyfishing School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-071725
Fly Fishing for Muskies a 2 day Course
Professional Guide, Fishing Instructor, Master Fly Tyer, and IGFA World Line Class Record holder for Muskies. Bill is one one of the most accomplished, widely recognized, Musky Fly Fishing instructors in the country. Featured in the videos “Fish of 10,000 Casts”, “Fish Catching Flies”, “Proven Patterns” & “Larger Predator Patterns”.
Owner of We Tie It Fly Shop & Northern Adventures Guide Service.
The clinic itself will consist of classroom instruction, casting instruction and practice, and on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter.
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to hone your skills to make your Muskie Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient “big rod” casting techniques. On Monday evening a fly tying session will be held - bring your own vise and tools, Bill will provide all the materials and other needed equipment.
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of Lakes in the Boulder Junction, WI area. These lakes and a portion of the Manitowish River are rated as class “A” Musky water. They will also offer some excellent fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Largemouth Bass.
This clinic is limited in number of participants and promises to sell out. Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill. There will be facilities for those wishing to bring their own boats. We encourage you to do so. There will also be boats available for rental.
This event is limited to 6 people. Pre-registration required to participate 50% deposit required at sign-up, balance due at start of course, credit cards accepted.
Register early, this course sells out every year!
*All other meals and accommodations are not covered in the cost
We recommend lodging at: Boulder Junction Motor Lodge in Boulder Jct. 715-385-2825 or contact the WI DNR for campground information at: 715-356-5211
For more information please contact: Bill Sherer’s We Tie It Fly Shop P.O. Box 516 Boulder Jct., WI 54512 phone: 715-385-0171
Itinerary
Day 1: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction Get aquatinted & discuss current fishing conditions Lunch* (on your own) Classroom Instruction: Equipment - How to build and repair leaders Rods, Reels & Lines Flies - Sizes in relation to time of year Choosing colors and patterns
Approach - Stalking Muskies Blind fishing
Typical Musky concentration areas - Time of the year: Surface oriented fish Mid depth fish Deep water fish
Day 2: 8:00 am Meet at We Tie It Fly Shop in Boulder Junction
Discuss current fishing conditions and approach
On the water - Put your lessons to the test
Lunch in the field - Covered in the cost of the Course
On the water - end session at 5:00 pm
Discussion of the day/course and observations ]]>River Kickboat/Smallmouth Bass School
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090424-070511
This course consists of classroom instruction, casting instruction and practice, and on the water fishing. This is a great opportunity to learn from pros and then get on the water immediately thereafter. Hone your skills and get in on some of the latest techniques and one of the most exciting forms of Smalmouth Bass Flyfishing there is today!
We will cover tactics critical to fly size, water and time of year. You will learn how to sharpen your skills to make your River Smallmouth Bass Flyfishing more successful. You will also learn about the equipment to use and how to rig it, fly selection, and efficient fly casting techniques. Along with proper kickboat techniques and tactics to enhance your ability to get into more fish and push the limits of your watercraft skills!
The Instructors will be on the water to help you fine tune your techniques. We will be fishing a variety of Rivers, these rivers are nationally known as some of the best Smallmouth Bass water in the state. They will also offer some fly fishing opportunities for Northern Pike and Walleyes.
Don't miss this rare chance to learn from and fish with Bill. Since we have a limited number of kickboats we encourage you to bring your own boat (Wisconsin State Law demands you have a wearable PFD on your boat!). You must have a boat approved for whitewater use, please check with Bill before you come up with one!
Our Insurance States: No Float Tubes or Fins Allowed! Maximum class size 12
Lunches & drinks included Must be paid in full in advance, credit cards accepted.
5. Fly Casting (A) Developing good skills (B) Position Fishing
about 12:00 p.m. Lunch Break
about 1:00 p.m. Depart for river
Put Your Lessons to the test!
1. Kick Boat Control 2. Fishing Return about 8:00 p.m.
DAY 2 8:00 a.m. meet at shop 1. Equipment check 2. Discussion of previous days events 10:00 a.m. Leave for River Test Boats/Fish Course Ends @ about 5:30 p.m.
Recommended Equipment List 9’ 7 weight or 8 weight fly rods with weight forward floating lines (WF7F or WF8F) 9’ 2X and 3X Leaders and Tippet Material Check out the Blue Sky Furled Leaders, they’re great for this type of fishing!
Chest Waders - we recommend lightweight breathable ones - they’re much more comfortable! Polarized Sunglasses, Raincoat, hat and insect repellent.
We will be using a variety of sinking and floating flies:
Sinking Flies: #4 Tongue Depressors in Black, Olive, Brown, and Chartreuse, #4 Conehead Rubber Legged Wooly Buggers in Brown/Yellow and Black/Yellow #6 Clousers and Deceivers in Olive/White, Chartreuse/White, Yellow/White and Red/White Surface Flies: #6 Deer hair, Cork or Foam Poppers and Sliders with rubber legs in Brown, Olive, Orange, Chartreuse, and Black. #6 Sneaky Pete’s with rubber legs in Chartreuse, and White
In addition everyone will get a package of flies which will be effective for the waters we will be fishing as well as a variety of other Smallmouth Bass waters throughout the country.]]>Weblog
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry090423-220737
Early Season Pike/Muskie Fishing Essentials:
Most of the Pike have already spawned and will be cruising the shallow weed flats looking for Perch, Suckers, Minnows and an occasional Bluegill, the larger fish tend to stay nearer the deeper edges where they feel more secure and have a quicker escape route to deep water, but they still are hungry and will take a fly well at this time of the year. Early Season sight fly fishing for Pike, is sometimes an exercise in frustration, and sometimes the most fantastic fishing you have ever done. Most of the fish in the Northwoods you will encounter will be less than 42 inches in length and weigh about 5 to 15 pounds - the fish are pretty skinny in the spring! They can be voracious feeders, if the conditions are right, you will have many shots at feeding fish. Typically you will spot 10 to 20 fish in a day with good shots at 5 to 10, your ability to accurately cast is critical in getting more chances at casting to fish that have not been spooked! You will also be blind casting to likely looking holding water. Cloudy, windier days are best for catching fish, but it is difficult to see them in these darker conditions - a great pair of Polarized Sunglasses will help immensely! You will have to blind cast more, but your hooking percentage will go up - the fish can't see you as well either! Pike of like sizes tend to travel in schools, once you find a few in a certain area or water type, you can target similar areas throughout the body of water you are on and you will probably have a banner day!
To even the odds, I recommend a couple of 9' 9wt. fast action Fly Rods rigged with Floating and Clear Intermediate Sink Tip lines. I usually use 20 # test single strand Titanium wire tippet attached to a 30# test leader butt of about 4 to 7 feet in length (depending on the depth of the water and type of line).
A good quality Disc Drag Reel (preferably Large Arbor), is a must, the lighter the better - I use Ross Evolution 3.5 Reels. Backing capacities are not critical, as these fish rarely get into the backing - I have never had one do it and don't know of anyone who has. Fifty to One Hundred yards of 20# test Backing will be more than adequate.
Keep your offerings small. Don't start chucking big flies right off the bat, use flies that will run deeper and have a smaller profile - the fish are still pretty cold and they can digest smaller foods faster, giving them more energy in a shorter amount of time. I usually start with subdued colors until the water temps get into the upper 50's and low 60'd then I slowly bring on the brighter stuff. Minnow imitations work best early on, then Perch and finally Bluegills, but the Gills really won't get going until water temps get into the 60's - we have a long way to go before that happens!
I should mention rods - get the lightest weight fastest action you can afford - but be careful not to get a "Saltwater" rod that is all butt and not meaty enough in the middle and tip sections. You need to generate lots of line speed at shorter distances (25 to 35 feet). I have St. Croix Legend Elite Saltwater Series rods which are very good, and I have the Muskie Master which is unsurpassed for casting extra large flies long distances with little effort. If you are on a tight budget, I think the best rod for around $150.00 is the Echo Ion 9' 9wt. - it's a 4 pc. rod with good speed and comes with a tube and sock. "Salmon" action rods are really too soft - they are made to protect lighter tippets and not made to cast extra large flies long distances - we don't have any lighter tippets to protect - 20# wire and 30# mono don't really need any "shock absorbing" softer tip or mid sections to protect them from breaking! Most 8wt. rods don't have enough backbone to "stick" a Muskie hard enough, we're trying to hook and fight them, not kill them in the process.
Patterns: I start my season with a Big Green, Bill's Deceiver, a Bunny Bug, and a Bucktail Bunny, near June I'll start using an Edgewater Diver and other flies in the 6 to 7 inch range. Many times the fish choose the slow rhythmic movement of the Bunny Bugs over the silhouette of the minnow patterns, especially if they are a bit deeper and less agressive because of colder water. Keep your flash to a minimum and slow your retrieve way down, almost just bumping or jigging the fly across the weeds. Keep your flies no more than 5 or 6 inches long, for best results use a 3/0 or 4/0 hook for most of the Pike/Muskies in our area. A 9 wt. rod is best.
Water clarity in the spring is fantastic, longer leaders and longer casts will get you into more and larger fish - be sneaky! I usually use a Cortland 444SL Ghost Tip line with a 15' clear Intermediate sinking front section, this gets my fly down where the fish will be. My leader system consists of a length of 30 pound test hard mono, looped at both ends, to this I add a single strand Titanium Tippet section that I build with a length of 30# test shock mono attached to the wire with an Albright Knot. At the terminal end I tie on the fly with a four loop Clinch Knot (note, don't pull the tag end tight, allow for a loop to remain at the hook eye for more fly movement). This type of system allows me to change leader lengths and replace tippets quickly and easily without messing around trying to reconstruct everything in the boat - I usually tie up several tippet sections in advance and put them into my tackle bag for use whenever I need them.
Leader Design: I make my own leaders, I use 20 or 30 pound test Maxima Ultragreen or some other brand of low-vis stiff mono for the butt section which may be between 2 and 7 feet long (depending on the water depth and clarity) the shallower the water the longer the leader Butt, put a small loop at both ends - one to attach to the fly line and the other to attach the tippet section. I make up tippet sections with about 15 inches of the same mono as the Butt Section and about 16 inches of 20 or 30 pound test single strand Titanium wire - I attach the wire to the mono with an Albright Knot. Put a small loop in the mono of the Tippet section to attach it to the Butt section, tie on the fly following the instructions on the back of the package of Titanium Wire (use a Clinch Knot). Don't pull the knot tight - leave some room for the fly to move freely - the knot will not pull tight, no matter how big the fish is and leave about a 1/4" tag end at the fly to make sure the wire can't untie itself.
This is by far the best leader system I have come up with to date, the wire is so small in diameter the fish don't see it, and it lasts way longer than anything else out there, also because it is single strand, it doesn't give off near as much reflection under water making it even more invisible to the fish. The wire isn't cheap, but it is definitely the best stuff out there, it's no more expensive than Tyger Wire and it will outlast it by tenfold! Sometimes in the spring, if the water is very clear and I'm fishing over a sandy bottom, I will skip the tippet section and tie the wire into the butt section making the leader & wire about 8 to 10 feet long. I do this to minimize the shadow from the leader and to keep the leader as streamlined as possible, but I only do this for extra clear water where I'm fishing very shallow.
Leader length depends on water depth and time of year. In the early spring I use a longer length because of water clarity - I lengthen the mono portion to about 5 to 7 feet, giving me a total length of about 6 to 8 feet with the Titanium Tippet section. Conversely, in the late fall when I'm fishing very large flies on full sinking lines and I want to get them very deep (10 to 18 feet), I go to a very short leader only about 1 or 2 feet plus the Titanium Tippet section which is a maximum of about 3 to 4 feet. Under normal fishing conditions throughout most of the season I use a total leader length of about 6 or 7 feet, this allows the fly to turn over well and still provides enough distance between the line and the fly to not spook the fish.
Where they're at: Look to the northeast corner of a body of water to warm up first - this area gets the most sunlight and the shallower water of a weed flat or shoreline when adjacent to deeper water is a great place to begin your hunt - especially if there is an incoming stream or creek in the shallow bay. A word of caution here, if there is a stiff wind blowing into the bay, the water temps will be significantly lower. In this case you are better off finding a bay where the water is calmer and can heat up better. Anyplace where the afternoon sun can warm up the water without much direct wind action will get the most active fish first. In a river, look to the backwaters and sloughs to contain the best fishing early on. The upper reaches of most flowages will also hold these fish since these places are very near or in their spawning areas.
Sometimes in the late spring (late May and early June) Muskies move up onto several sandy beaches in the late afternoons and evenings - I sometimes am able to sneak up on these fish while wading, if you would be interested in giving this a try, bring your wading equipment along. I have caught a couple of 20 to 30 pounders with this technique - it's not easy, but it can be very worthwhile! ]]>Trophy Pike & Brook Trout Canadian Adventure Trip
http://www.wetieit.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070425-110457
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