55 on the fly

Rubber Legs Stonefly Nymph by John Scott

2012-02-17T11:09:00.002-05:00

My friend John Scott over on FAOL forum has a great Rubber Legs Stonefly Nymph* pattern that is a killer out west... I have great luck with it as does John... I have scaled it down for here in NY to a size #14. Just another stone to throw at them, simple to tie and different enough from what most folks are using around here.

Hook: 1xl nymph #14

Thread: 6/0 Uni Black

Weight: lead wrapped foil or black bead

Tail & Legs: orange plastic fruit bag material or small rubber legs

Body: MFC Micro Lucent Chenille 035-black

*see John's step-by-step here:

RUBBER LEGS STONEFLY NYMPH by John Scott, Lolo MT

http://www.flyanglersonline.com/fotw...tw20100524.php

Little Stones

2012-02-13T15:30:00.006-05:00

Our son Scott and his fiancee Erin were visiting us this weekend. He lives and fishes in and around the Endicott, NY area. We were tying up some turkey tail nymphs for him to use because he's been seeing some small winter stones while fishing... The last time I was out fishing on 2/9/12, I saw a few of our small stone flies on the creek too. It won't be long before they are out in earnest. So, tie some up and be ready for them.

Here are two nymphs that I like.

Korn's Oatka Stone Nymph (soft-hackle)

Hook: #14 - 1xl nymph
Thread: 8/0 Uni Black
Tail & Body: turkey tail
Rib: small copper wire
Thorax: black dubbing
Soft-hackle: iridescent turkey neck feather

Rene Harrop's Turkey Tail Nymph

Hook: #14 - 1xl nymph
Thread: 8/0 Uni Black
Tail, Body, wingcase, thorax and legs: turkey tail
Rib: small copper wire

Round Two - instant replay...

2012-02-09T12:54:00.001-05:00

Hit the creek again this morning..... this pool provided some lively action!

Nice brown here caught on a translucent orange Fire Fly.

This run doesn't look like much but is one of my favorites... Why? Because it produces fish!

Go on get out there and getch-ya some!

First outing of the year!

2012-02-06T13:46:00.001-05:00

I got out for a couple of hours this morning. It was about 40 degrees and very windy, but hey, I was out fishing!

The water was a bit high and fast but I managed to find some fish in the slower water along the edges...

The fly of the day? No, doubt the Fire Fly...

"on the fly"

BRF - 2012 Midge Soft Hackle Emerger

2012-02-01T14:06:00.004-05:00

Craig Mathews at Blue Ribbon Flies has come up with a nice winter time midge emerger.
See him tie it here: http://www.blue-ribbon-flies.com/how-to/soft_hackle_midge_emerger/

Inspired by Craig, I got some "combo thread" from BRF and tied the #18's shown here... Simple to tie and just as effective I'm sure. I hope to put this new fly to the test next week here in NY...

My materials list:

Hook: 18-20 std. wet fly

Thread: BRF - Combo thread 6/0 black/red for body

Tail: zelon amber or grey

Thorax: black zelon or rabbit dubbing

Wing: Ruff Grouse “V” tied soft-hackle style with wraps walking the fibers around the shaft. I like my soft-hackle a little longer than Craig... tie 'em as you like 'em.

FAOL feature my Korn's CDC Spent-wing Caddis as the FOTW

2012-01-30T08:40:00.001-05:00

A short while ago I was encouraged by fellow FAOL forum members to submit a step-by-step of my Korn's CDC Spent-wing Caddis and the Parachute variation that I tie. So I gathered up my meager photographic equipment and took some photo's of the tying process and sent it in. Today they have posted it as the Fly Of The Week...

see it here: http://www.flyanglersonline.com/fotw/2012/fotw20120130.php

Parks Fly Shop - Red Ass

2012-01-23T16:02:00.002-05:00

Here's my version of an old fly that I still tie for Parks Fly Shop in Gardiner, MT located just outside the North entrance to the park. It's a simple wet fly to tie. Use it as a dropper or swing a pair of them through a nice run. The brook trout in the park really like this fly, fished behind a Coachman Trude makes for a deadly combination.

Hook: MFC 7076, size 14-16

Thread: red danville

Tail: red yarn, needloft

Body: peacock

Rib: gold wire

Hackle: grizzly hen soft hackle

Photographed and tied by Doug Korn

Leeches.. Yikes!

2012-01-20T09:33:00.002-05:00

Leeches, really?
Have you ever run out of ideas, flies, to throw at that stubborn trout? He's not moving much, not actively feeding? Here's the deal --- throw him a leech! Last year out West Michelle and I both caught our biggest trout on tandem rigs featuring two leeches. We were fly fishing in the Northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park where the Cutthroats get lots of attention. Both trout were stubborn and didn't want to play, they had seen it all in this heavily fished stream. Until we gave them a leech to look at, bam fish on! We cast them quartering upstream, let them dead drift, then swing and then strip them in slowly with short strokes. When all else fails, give 'em leeches.

Photographed and tied by Doug Korn

I tie simple leeches. All you need is; a bead, hook and a piece of yarn. Use some strong thread to hold it all together... brush and tease it out and you have your leech. The best colors for out West; black, brown, olive and dark red... sizes 10-12. Here in the East; pink, black, red and for some unknown reason yellow... sizes 12-14.

Mid 50's Glass Rod

2012-01-18T15:14:00.001-05:00

Yep, picked up a nice 1950's - 60's rebuilt fiberglass fly rod from Kevin Proctor, at Colorado Custom Fly Rods. http://www.coloradocustomflyrods.com/index.html

The original manufacturer of the rod is unknown, but I like the looks and feel of this rod. Kevin stripped the blank and totally refurbished it with all new hardware, cork grip and nice maroon wraps. I've been looking for a fiberglass 6 wt. in the 8-9 foot range and this one at 8' 6" should be fun to fish out West. It's a no-nonsense fishing stick just the way us old guides like 'em. I have two other old fiberglass fly rods that I fish occasionally, but they are collectors rods that are in such good original condition that I worry about using them. This rod has been given new life by Kevin --- and will be fished hard by me!

Here are Kevin's photo's of the rod...

Korn’s Kandy (double bead)

2012-01-17T18:34:00.004-05:00

Photographed and tied by Doug Korn

Tied "in the round" this color combination is killer for fall browns. The "double K" can also be scaled down and tied in smaller sizes and colors, like Golden Stones, etc.

Hook: MFC 7026 in #4-6

Beads: two copper brass beads (thorax bead one size smaller than bead head)

Thread: Black Uni 6/0

Tail & legs: cream solid med-large. rubber legs

Rib: optional, 28 gauge copper

Abdomen: black yarn 2 ply

Thorax: orange ice dub

Korn's CDC Spent-wing Parachute Caddis

2012-01-11T09:26:00.003-05:00

Korn's CDC Spent-wing Parachute Caddis ~ tied and photographed by Doug Korn

This parachute caddis fly is a variation of the Korn's CDC Spent-wing Caddis, seen here:

http://55onthefly.blogspot.com/2012/01/korns-cdc-spent-wing-caddis.html

It makes a nice lead fly for the above standard CDC Spent-wing as that fly is not easy to see on the water... With the parachute this fly is easy to see and floats like a dream.

Hook: MFC 7000 #14

Thread: Uni-8/0 Camel

Body: tan type #1* CDC feather wrapped forward.

Wing: 2 hen pheasant feathers tied flat, with a small drop of head cement spread on top.

Post: white CDC type #3* puff feather on top of shank, fold in half and post up.

Hackle: one natural colored type #1 or #4* CDC feather using the Marc Petitjean Magic Tool.

Complete fly by trimming the post and the underside of the fly flat.

*as per CDC feather chart by Hans Weilenmann

Stella is 4 today!

2012-01-09T08:24:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday girl..... see her video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkH5ruGhHSQ

Korn's CDC Spent-wing Caddis

2012-01-04T16:02:00.000-05:00

tied and photographed by Doug Korn

Materials List:
Hook: MFC 7000 #14
Thread: Uni-8/0 Camel
Body: tan CDC feather wrapped forward
Wing: 2 hen pheasant feathers tied flat and notched at tip, with a drop of head cement spread on top
Thorax: fox squirrel dubbing

CDC Pale Morning Dun, No-hackle

2012-01-04T14:15:00.003-05:00

Tied and photographed by Doug Korn

Top view of split-tails

Materials list:

Hook: MFC 7000 Dry #14-18

Thread: 8/0 Uni - Rust Orange

Tails: 4 CDL feather barbs, tied in as split-tails

Body: PMD dubbing or to match the hatch

Wings: 2 CDC feathers

Thorax: fox squirrel dubbing

CDC & Foam Mayfly (Sulfur)

2012-01-03T08:44:00.001-05:00

Eastern Spring Sulfurs ~ they will be here before you know it...

Tied and photographed by Doug Korn

Materials list:

Hook: MFC 7000 Dry #14-18
Thread: 8/0 Uni - Rust Orange
Tails: CDL split
Body: wrapped 1mm foam
Wings: 2 CDC feathers
Thorax: DK #9 Sulfur dubbing or similar
Legs: CDC wing butts folded back and trimmed

Note: change colors for: BWO, Flav's, PMD's, etc...

To you and yours...

2011-12-15T15:24:00.003-05:00

Celebrate the Lords birth with great joy!

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour,

which is Christ the Lord. ~ Luke 2:11

YNP - Slough Creek Trail 2011

During this Holiday Season let us be thankful for all of our many blessings ~ Merry Christmas

Lark and Grey

2011-12-04T05:54:00.000-05:00

Photographed and tied by Doug Korn

Materials List:

Hook: MFC 7000 Dry Fly #16 (#14-20)

Thread: Black or Yellow 8/0 Uni.

Wings: Teal or Mallard - folded and split, tied forward, then split and figure 8 thread through them.

Tail: Dry fly cape, Darbee Dun Grade 2, Badger spade hackle barbs

Body: PMD DK dubbing tied sparse

Hackle: Dry fly cape, Darbee Dun Grade 2, Badger, 3 wraps behind wings and 2-3 in front.

Stalking fall birds?

2011-10-24T17:25:00.001-04:00

Sometimes it works!

Opening day - I put a stalk on 7 turkeys in a small field. One didn't make it!

Mossberg 835 3 1/2 in. mag.

Moving on up!

2011-10-17T10:50:00.003-04:00

Yep, that's right, I'm moving on up to the first floor den from the basement......

Oh Yeah... Getting out of the cold, damp basement and tying on an old kitchen table to a freshly painted den with a window and a old antique Reading Railroad desk and swivel chair.

The desk was a great find at a local antique shop and it's perfect for an old fashion fly-tier like me....

My "55 on the fly" tying desk.
I love the desk top rail and the classic styling...

with some hopper tying materials, vise and lights

OK now I guess I have to get back to doing some tying!

Deer Hair Emerger

2011-09-12T13:50:00.000-04:00

Deer Hair Emerger- tied by Doug Korn

Great fly for spring creeks. It sets low in water and shines during a hatch.

Hook: MFC scud light wire #14-18 for BWO, PMD

Thread: Serifil 200 tan or UNi - 8/0

Tail: amber zelon
Body: just thread wraps over zelon or dubbing to match.
Thorax: BWO olive dubbing or PMD.

Wing: mule deer hair
Head: deer hair butts
Note: add floatant to thorax and deer hair only...

Pheasant Tail Caddis Pupa

2011-09-06T09:45:00.002-04:00

Well, I'm back from vacation and back in the saddle tying some flies. Here are two photo's of my tie of Davie Mc Phail's PT Caddis Pupa a great fly for the creeks here in NY or anywhere else you have caddis flies.

side view ~ notice the bug bond set on the wingcase, giving the appearance that the fly is ready to bust open.

top view

Pheasant Tail Caddis Pupa by Davie McPhail

You can see Davie tie it here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFiuS3MnaBc&feature=feedu_more

My Pattern list:

Hook: Scud type #14

Weight: 10-12 wraps of lead or copper wire (I use the wire)

Thread: Camel brown in 8/0

Rib: dark brown flexy floss

Abdomen: peacock herl dyed yellow

Wingcase and Legs: pheasant tail fibers 10-12, tied with the tips a hook length over the eye. Dub thorax and pull butts of PT over the top to form wingcase, fold legs back, tie small head, whip finish.

Thorax: brown dubbing

Bubble: bug bond

Our Last Nights in Gardiner, MT

2011-08-24T21:10:00.000-04:00

Our last campfire in Gardiner was on a typical cool evening with the gentle breeze that always blew through the mountains. We made some delicious grilled cheese sandwiches in our pie iron - Yum! We hated to go to bed knowing that we only had one last day in this peaceful place. The next day we packed up, took a walk, and had dinner at Rosie's. We met some good friends there for a last drink or two and promised to stay in touch.

Grilled cheese done to perfection!

Doug, Ben, and Wilson - some great friends in Gardiner.

We certainly have done everything we wanted to do (except for my zip-lining) and definitely more than we expected. We saw some beautiful places and went to areas where only a few lucky people get to go. It was such a privilege to be able to experience YNP the way that we did. Doug has been scouting out all of the best spots for the past several years and he picked out all of the best ones to share with me. We are in awe of the beauty and majesty of this place and marvel at the diversity and openness. My favorite spot was the waterfall at Sheepeater. Thank you Doug for making me walk up the rock into the waterfall. Thank you for taking me up to Slough Creek and into second meadow. Thank you for pushing me to climb into canyons, wade through rushing streams, hike up to higher vistas, and do things that I was almost afraid to do. With you as my guide, I had the experience of a lifetime and will treasure the gift of this trip forever. Love you! ~Michelle

Living in Gardiner, MT

2011-08-24T20:45:00.001-04:00

Living as a Gardiner MT resident for a month was wonderful. The pace is nice and slow, the air is soft and cool. The town itself is small and you can visit each store and business easily within a few hours. There are no stop lights and the library is only open on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Once you are done checking out the town, there is nothing left to do but read, fish and relax. In Gardiner we walked everywhere. It was good daily exercise since our campground was up a pretty steep hill. Right next door is the amazing Yellowstone River and we could go over and play anytime we wanted to.

Looking up at our campground. Those buildings with red roofs are little cabins that you can rent.

This is the view from the bridge going over the Yellowstone river. See the campground in the upper left?

Parks Fly Shop

This is Park's Fly Shop where Doug works - or worked. He is still tying flies for them throughout the year but he was not doing much guiding this year - except for me! The shop has been here in Gardiner since 1953.

Across the street from the fly shop is the Two Bit Saloon. You can get breakfast, lunch and dinner there and a $1 PBR. One of our favorite restaurants called the Raven used to be attached to the Two Bit but was sorely missed this year!

Here is Rosie's where you can have a good dinner downstairs - The Big Sky pasta dish is Doug's favorite and I had a great rib-eye there. The you can move upstairs and have a PBR on the roof and look out at the park. We watched the sun go down and the moon come up on several nights. Usually we had some good company with us also.

Here is the rest of this stretch of Gardiner. Most of these are little souvenir shops but there is also a good little coffee place.

This is one of my favorite views and places in Gardiner. This is the arch that welcomes people into Yellowstone National Park. "For the benefit and enjoyment of the people" is engraved on the top. Built in 1903 it is a cool monument. We can't wait to see it again soon!

"Last Chance" on the Yellowstone River

2011-08-20T19:35:00.006-04:00

Last night we had Wally and Wilson up to our RV for dinner. Hots, hamburgers, baked beans, deviled eggs, coleslaw and homemade camper cookies for dessert. Michelle out did herself... Later a campfire, a few PBR's and LOTS of fishing talk. It was great to spend some time with the guys.

With only today to fish and tomorrow for packing up and prepping to leave Yellowstone Country I fished my "Last Chance" for this YNP season. We head back to VA. early on Monday, Aug. 22nd...

Michelle decided yesterday's fishing was tough to beat so she settled in with a good book and the mountains for company. But I had to get out one more time for a couple of hours on the Yellowstone River down the old road... With 14 fish brought to hand and the landing of my first "double" in YNP, I couldn't ask for a better ending.

Here are some photos:

Beautiful Cutthroat

"Last Chance Double" a Cutthroat and a Rainbow, netting two fish at once is tricky...

Rainbow on a Dave Downie Fox Squirrel Nymph
see here: http://55onthefly.blogspot.com/2011/06/fox-squirrel-nymph-by-dave-downie.html

"Last Fish"

What a wonderful time we have had experiencing the sights and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park as-well-as fishing it's rivers and streams. It's truly been a gift and to do it with my wife, what a joy! I couldn't ask for a better partner. Michelle, I look forward to our next fish, "on the fly". ~ Doug.

Note: For those of you keeping score at home the Antler Round-up is over,
final score: Doug = 13 Michelle = 0, she never got off the schnide...

Video of Gardner's Hole - One of our Favorite Places

2011-08-20T15:24:00.001-04:00

Take a look at this short video clip from our hike into Gardner's Hole. At the end of the clip you will see a dark green stand of pines. That was where we were hiking for our fishing trip that day. This is as close as I can get you without a plane ticket! Enjoy!

Hayden Valley

2011-08-20T14:52:00.001-04:00

Hayden Valley is in the southern part of YNP and a beautiful place to go to see wide open spaces and wildlife. Well, we saw plenty of space but not much wildlife. The gorgeous scenery made up for it and we had a great day. We stopped at Canyon Village and checked out a small museum there along with the gift shops. Of course we had to get an ice cream cone too!

This is a view near Tower Falls area. There is a river way down at the bottom of the canyon. The rock formations are so varied and unique.

A view of Hayden Valley.

We saw a grizzly bear from the road and that is about as close as I care to get!

Here is one of the tour buses that will take you through the park.

This view is near Mt. Washburn. We were so high up and could see for miles! Notice the burned trees in the foreground from the 1988 fire. The forest areas are reseeding themselves and the new trees are getting taller. We are fortunate to be here at this time since five or six years from now these new trees will grow up and obstruct many of the wonderful views from the roads.

On our way out of the park we finally saw some sheep that had come down to take a drink from the Gardner River.

We were rewarded with a beautiful sunset back at the campground.

Fishing in Gardner's Hole

2011-08-20T14:38:00.001-04:00

Gardner's Hole is a favorite fishing spot of Doug's. We hiked in about 2 miles past the stand of pine trees that you see in the picture. There is a small canyon just beyond that spot that Doug wanted to explore and fish. This area is so awesome - as in big and beautiful! When you stand up on the trail and look out it is just amazing. And you don't hear any noise but the wind! It was a great day and hard to say good-bye to this amazing place on earth. But we will be back!

This is where we started fishing. We worked our way up into the canyon area along the winding river.

Doug found these elk sheds right around the river.

Can you even ask for a more wonderful place to spend the day?

We fished for several hours and caught a ton of fish! Many of them were small brook trout but they are still fun to catch. The male brook trout are so colorful. Here are some pictures of Doug and I catching one of the many fish of the day.

Doug found this monster elk shed on our hike out of Gardner's Hole. It is the biggest one that he has ever seen. Check out the length compared to his arm. The diameter of the shed was incredible.

Black Canyon of the Yellowstone River

2011-08-18T09:47:00.007-04:00

Michelle and I had fabulous dinner at Rosie's here in Gardiner. After dinner we met up with Ben and Wilson and had a few PBR's and of course talked about the guide trips the guys had and our day on Slough Creek... At some point in the conversation Ben said he had the day off tomorrow and that he had marked me off on the PFS guide trip calendar as well, hmmmmm...

I said: "Where are you thinking of going?"

Ben said: "Black Canyon."

"Wow, that's a good hike and I just did 11 miles into Slough Creek, the Black Canyon will be another 8-9 miles..."

"So, are you game?"

"Chelle is it OK with you?" She said: "Go have fun."

"OK I'm in." I said. (thinking I must be crazy for doing back-to-back hikes on this ankle)

Black Canyon of the Yellowstone - hiking in...

Suspension Bridge over the Yellowstone River

BUT--- I'm so glad I did... Ben and I had a great day of fishing and fellowship. He is great to be around, easy going, carefree and one hell of a fisherman. We caught a boat load of fish in the 12-16 inch range. Ben's best fish was 18 inches, which we failed to capture on film and mine was also about 17-18 inches the photo is below...

Another wonderful day in Yellowstone, thanks Ben for dragging me another 9 miles to go fishing ~ I loved every minute of it... ~ Doug.

On the streamer in a big eddy, it's so cool to see them come and get the fly.

Ben

Ben's Cutthroat - we caught almost all Cutthroats

A hopper-dropper accounted for a bunch of fish too...

Fat healthy fish - just beautiful...

My fish of the day...

Fifth-Wheel Life

2011-08-17T18:36:00.002-04:00

It has been over one month living in our fifth-wheel RV. We have two more weeks to go and so far we are really enjoying it. Our "rig" is very comfortable with all that we need and more. There is just enough room for the two of us plus our dog Stella. Here are some pictures of our home away from home.

Dining Room and entertainment area.

Bedroom; with sink, toilet and stand up shower.

Kitchen, living room, foyer. Can you find Stella??

Here is a view from our campground in Gardiner, MT.

This is the entrance to the campground and the view as I take my walk into town almost every day.

Slough Creek - Second Meadow Hike

2011-08-17T14:29:00.001-04:00

This is a picture that Doug took at Slough Creek in 2008. I have had this on my computer screen at work for a long time. We also had this picture put onto a canvas and hung it in our living room. This place looked so picture perfect that I was always wishing that I could go to that spot someday. It is an all day hike since it is 5 miles just to get to this spot. Well, I finally made it!

The location has changed a little bit but it is still a beautiful spot!

The Second Meadow at Slough Creek is a magnificent spot! It is a long hike in - about 5 miles - with much of it uphill. We started the trek in at 6:30 am. The moon followed us in for most of the morning.

After reaching second meadow and the "picture spot", we rigged up and started to fish. We worked our way around to this canyon that had many boulders. Doug had me rock hopping to get to many small pools. Yes, we worked our way right down the stretch in the picture standing on rocks to fish. The fish were not interested in dry flies at all and it was probably because the water was very cold. We were there early in the morning and we could still see frost on the plants. Not only that but when you are rock hopping, you are almost guaranteed to be in the water at some point! We know first hand just how cold that water is!

Here are some bear tracks that we found on a small island in one part of the creek. We were happy to see the tracks with no bear in them.

We had almost no luck catching fish until we moved to another part of Slough Creek. Once Doug figured out what to use to catch these stubborn fish, we had a ball! We caught several large cutthroats that were at least 15 inches and so colorful.

Doug netting one of his fish.

My biggest fish so far and he put up a fun fight.

Then we caught a monster fish! This cutthroat was 20 inches long and had such a big head and mouth. It was so much fun to net this fish for Doug and see the smile on his face! We moved on to another location after having some lunch in this sweet spot. We had a great fishing day as you can see!

Who's smile is bigger?? A 20 inch cutthroat is a giant in YNP.

We walked out of Second Meadow starting at about 3:00 with tired feet but some great memories. Along the 2 hour walk out we again took notice of the scenery around us. We both feel so blessed to be able to experience the magnificent beauty and majesty of YNP. Here are a few pictures that we took along the way of the natural beauty of Slough Creek.

See the buffalo lying down in the bottom left corner? He was right near our path so we decided to take a detour. I don't think that even our bear spray would phase these giants.

This could be our next picture on the wall at home. For this one, I don't have to wish that I could go there - I already did!

Yellowstone River+Hopper+Dropper=Dinner

2011-08-15T22:01:00.005-04:00

Once every season I have a trout dinner here in Yellowstone Country.

Today I fished the Yellowstone River in a spot I love to fish the Hopper-Dropper when the hoppers are a hopping. With a Korn's Split-tail Hopper in tan and pink on top and a Go2 Prince on point they delivered 22 trout to hand in about two hours of fishing. It doesn't get much easier than that, too easy really, even in the high winds we had today. I think I could have caught 50+ fish if I had stayed out longer, but I had my limit of trout and I had satisfied my desire to be fishing... Funny, on the tough days you've got to drag me off the river... Not today, I clipped my flies and headed for the RV. ~ Dougie

Note: see http://55onthefly.blogspot.com/2011/08/lay-z-day.html for my hopper-dropper set-up.

These fish are hidden in the rocks below and dart up to take your flies, fun!

"on the fly"

Rainbow

one of several Cutty's caught today...

rainbow trout

fried fish, sweet potatoes and coleslaw... Oh Yeah!

The Beauty of the Gardner River - Scenery (Part 2)

2011-08-14T23:24:00.003-04:00

Words cannot describe the place that we were today. We hiked into a place that has not been seen by many people. I am so fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and brave guide that has investigated all of these places and is happy to share them with me. It will be a place and a feeling that I will never forget! God has provided wondrous things in nature! Yes, we did some fishing (see Part 1) but the hiking and views won out today. Take a look at these photos - they say it all. ~Michelle

This is called Sheepeater Cliff.

A waterfall along the way. I thought this was awesome - little did I know what was ahead!

I wish you could hear the power in this water.

We are way above this waterfall even though it doesn't look like it in this photo. We had to watch our footing as we were very close to the edge at some places.

This is the first meadow along our route. Our hike in was high above this area. The river below looks small but only because it is far below where I am standing.

A pond filled with lily pads? Where did that come from??

Picture perfect! See the mountains in the background?

Here is my favorite spot to date! This waterfall is so wide and it cascades down for a long stretch. It is amazing when you walk up on it but even more awesome when you get to the bottom and look up at it. I caught two rainbow trout right here in the dark water just below the white water - yes, standing in a waterfall!

The water from the falls turns this little corner and moves on down the canyon. We walked down here to start our fishing portion of the trip.

Looking back up at the waterfall right after the turn.

The water is fast but shallow in most places. I didn't want to follow Doug up here but he convinced me and I'm so glad that I did! What an amazing feeling standing here!

A little yellow bellied marmot came out to say hello.

Looking down on our walk out. Believe me it is high up above that river!

The Beauty of the Gardner River - Fishing (Part 1)

2011-08-14T21:18:00.000-04:00

Sausage, onion, peppers and cheese frittata for breakfast.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast. Doug said I was going to need it! He was right. We hiked into a place near Sheepeaters Canyon. The steep climbs and rocky terrain were all worth it. We caught quite a few beautiful fish - mostly brook trout but also a few rainbow trout. The scenery there is beyond words and even beyond the pictures that we took. Check out Part 2 of the day in the next blog entry where many of our scenery pictures will be - you won't want to skip it! ~ Michelle

We found this elk skull with rack and many other pieces of the elk (ribs, vertebrae, hip, jawbone) on our way to our fishing spot.

Doug's first catch of the day, but not his last! We caught about 50 trout today...

Here is something that you don't see everyday! I caught two fish at once. One was on my top fly, a Tweeter Caddis and the other was on a Bead Head Prince nymph.

A beautiful rainbow trout. He was a leaper and fun to catch.

Check out this fishing hole! Fishing in a waterfall? Oh yeah, I caught a good 10 inch rainbow trout and another smaller one in the plunge pool at the base of this waterfall behind me. It was hard to concentrate on fishing with such beauty right in front of me - and with rushing water all around.

Moon over Gardiner.

2011-08-14T21:16:00.000-04:00

We found the best place in Gardiner to watch for the full moon. A couple of PBRs, a guy on an electric piano singing Moon River, and good company up on the roof of one of the restaurants. We sat and talked and just watch dusk settle over the entrance to YNP.

We could sit here all day!

Here she comes!

What a treat to see the "Green Corn Moon" in such a beautiful place!

A 180 degree view

2011-08-13T17:15:00.000-04:00

Here is a video clip showing a place that we see often in YNP. It was here that we saw a Golden Eagle. Enjoy the scenery!

Horseback Riding

2011-08-13T16:46:00.002-04:00

This morning we went on a 2 hour horseback ride up at the Hell's-a-Roaring horse ranch in Jardine. Jardine is a small "town" about 7 miles above Gardiner. Just getting up the bumpy, narrow dirt road to the ranch was interesting. We had a wonderful ride through the woods up and down the mountainside.

Here are some pictures of part of the ranch. Take a look at the building with the sod roof. They even had pansies growing on it. You can come here and stay at the house or in tents. It is a beautiful ranch with so many horses!

Beautiful animals and a beautiful view.

We were ready to ride. Doug is on Spike who liked to stop and nibble all kinds of plants.

I rode on Rex off into the sunset - or sunrise I guess!

Over the river and through the woods. Rusty!!

This is what Gardiner looks like from up past Jardine. At the bottom left you can see the campground that we are in. We are parked in the row farthest to the left at the edge of the campground.

A Great Morning

2011-08-12T23:14:00.002-04:00

A natural jacuzzi on the Gardner River where we took a dip first thing in the morning. Look closely and you will see heads in with all the rocks.

We started our morning by taking a dip in the Gardner River. There is a spot on the river where a boiling pot empties in and mixes with the cold river water. It is a natural jacuzzi and it was so cool - and hot!! We sat in the water next to a little cascade and let the river water wash over us. All around was nothing but blue sky and beautiful scenery. After we dried off and changed we drove a ways to Roosevelt Lodge and just made the breakfast hour. We sat out on the old porch and intended to read but the scenery and buffalo were too much competition. We saw a herd of buffalo right across from the lodge and got out to hear them lowing and calling to each other. While on our way back to camp we stopped to see some gorgeous views and at one spot saw a golden eagle flying around in a valley. He was a beautiful bird and big - they can have a wing span of 6-7 feet - yes I said feet! One more stop in Mammoth Hot springs and then it was home for a quiet afternoon and hot dogs on the grill! ~ Michelle

Looking down the Gardner River - such a beautiful sight.

Yielding to these huge beasts is a must. He could have eaten the little car in front of him for breakfast.

Having a second cup of coffee on the porch of Roosevelt Lodge.

We saw a golden eagle in this valley. Unfortunately he was too far to capture with the camera

Isn't it cool that no matter where we are in this big country we can all still see the same full moon!

Fan Creek

2011-08-12T01:13:00.003-04:00

Fellow Parks Fly Shop guide Ben Jewell and I headed out early this morning to West Yellowstone and the Gallatin Mountain Range to fish Fan Creek. The hike in was beautiful with; high mountain peaks, lodgepole pine trees and the many wild flowers surrounding the valley. We hiked in 4 miles to the second backwoods campsite and started fishing the winding meadow stream. The fishing was slow. Maybe the water was to cold or to skinny but the fish just weren't there. After fishing a mile upstream we decided to hike back down valley and give-it-a-go. We had better luck there taking some nice cutbows. It was a fun day, fishing new water and spending time with a good friend.

Fan Creek

Mountain Blue Bells

Elephant Head

Dougie with a nice Cutbow.

Ben Jewell

Trip to West Yellowstone

2011-08-10T22:28:00.000-04:00

Today we drove to West Yellowstone to vist the shops there and to see the scenery along our way. It was a beautiful day without a cloud in the sky when we left in the morning. West Yellowstone is a very busy entrance to YNP and there are so many shops to visit. We stopped into a little bakery for some coffee and a cinnamon pastry that was definitely made from scratch. Our drive to and from there was gorgeous as usual. Driving along the Madison River we saw such amazing views and peaceful scenes. We saw some elk but they were quite a ways off the road.

This is the Gibbon Falls on the Gibbon River.

A restful spot along the Madison River.

We met some prairie dogs there.

As you get closer to Mammoth Hot Springs you come across a large area of rocks that were pushed out of the ground. These rocks seem so out of place since they are a very stark contrast to the other landscapes.

We get to see this beautiful view every time we drive back to Gardiner from a day in the park. We never tire of it since it seems different each time depending on the weather, the sunlight, or the time of day.

The rock formation on the right is called Castle Rock. This is also along the route back to Gardiner on the side of a steep craggy mountain.

And here is our final destination - Gardiner, MT.

After a day of touring we decide to play a game of dominoes - and guess who won??

Lay-Z-Day!

2011-08-09T16:12:00.003-04:00

Today is one of those "Lazy Days" in camp...

Last night I met up with a fellow turkey hunter and NWTF award winning call maker - Marlin Watkins here in Gardiner. He showed me some of his turkey box calls and I ran them a bit as we sat and talked turkey in front of the Great Western where he was staying. Super calls and a super guy. We had a PBR and shared fishing and turkey hunting tales well into the evening...

This morning Michelle and I slept in then went out to the "Two Bit Saloon" for brunch.... Can you say "breakfast burrito"? Oh Yeah...

Michelle and old Stella enjoying a good book

Back at camp things slowed way down to -
Montana speed...

Michelle says things will speed up later with pizza on the grill, followed by a game of Dominos...
Why Dominos? To avoid playing Gin!

Notice the two flies on the book - see below

My book choice is "No Shortage of Good Days" by John Gierach, an appropriate title for this vacation to say the least.

The two flies are a deadly combo with the Split-tail used as the top fly and the Go2 trailing 14 inches or so tied off the bend of the hook...

I promised photos of this fly, so here you go.

Korn's Split-tail Golden Stone Fly

--- See earlier post for the tying instructions.

top view

bottom view

My version of the Go2 Prince by Rick Takahasi, you can find tying instructions by googling it...
or here: http://globalflyfisher.com/video/taks-go-2-prince-nymph

~55dougie

Tidbits from Today's Travels

2011-08-07T23:02:00.000-04:00

Here are a few interesting pictures from our trip to Old Faithful today. Enjoy!

This is Mammoth Hot Springs. Mineral deposits cause the different colors in the formations. Liberty Cap is the rock on the left.

This is one small part of the park that was burned in a huge fire in 1988. The kind of trees that were burned are Lodge Pole Pines. They have seeds in their pine cones that are only released when in a fire. Notice all of the downed trees that were killed. You can see the small pines that have grown from those seeds and are starting to replace the burned ones. Nature is amazing! There is your Cliff Claven little known fact for the day.

Some geyser holes off in the distance. You see many of these along with boiling pots down around Old Faithful.

These are sand hill cranes and we spotted them in the field. They are big birds!

Coyote!

Elk are usually hanging around in Mammoth Hot Springs area. Today there were about 30 or more just wandering around for the tourists.

Old Faithful Visit

2011-08-07T22:28:00.001-04:00

We traveled south in the park today to Old Faithful. This old inn was built in the early 1900's (I think 1905) and the story of how it was built is very interesting. The structure is built from local materials especially all of the logs used in the interior.

The Old Faithful Inn.

Inside the Inn. We love it here and stayed the night two years ago.

Ice cream time on the outside deck of the Inn to watch Old Faithful. You can see the steam starting to form in the distance.

Always a good show!

"Foot-note"

2011-08-07T21:02:00.005-04:00

For those of you who keep asking: "How's the foot?"...

Here it is in all it's glory!

It really does feel better, although it doesn't look it...
Michelle has me on restricted movement.
That's probably good, otherwise I'd be trying to do "more" than I should... by "more", I mean too much hiking and fishing... Anyway, the swelling is way down and I'm on the mend. ~Doug

Fishing Soda Butte Creek

2011-08-06T21:55:00.004-04:00

Today we drove out to Lamar Valley and fished in Soda Butte Creek. We fished fairly close to the road as it was Doug's first day back in action after spraining his ankle, which he says is feeling better but it looks worse, black and blue-awful.

The Lamar Valley is one of my favorite places to visit but the fishing was not the best today. There were many people fishing there and the fish just weren't in the mood. They were there but were fussy on fly selection. We did best with caddis imitations and just enjoyed being back out on the water. We fished for about three hours and then drove down to another spot to take a break and look for some wildlife. We didn't see much there but is was so nice to sit and just marvel in the beauty of our surroundings. As we drove out of the park we saw a coyote, a fox carrying its dinner, two black bear and then a grizzly bear far in the distance. When we got home it was time for a beer and then some dinner. A good day all in all. ~Michelle

Doug's nice cutthroat caught on Korn's Spent-wing Caddis fly.

The fish were there but the fishing was slow today.

Just one of the splendid views that we could look at while fishing.

We sat here for about an hour just looking over the mountains and looking for wildlife. We saw an osprey on a nest and some antelope.

A black bear running across the bridge over the Yellowstone River. He was following a car so I guess they can say that they were chased by a bear in YNP:)

Another black bear sighting as we headed for home.

The Beartooth Highway Part 2

2011-08-05T13:15:00.001-04:00

Here is part 2 of our trip on the Beartooth Highway.

Buffalo in Lamar Valley - one of my favorite places.

At the end of our eastward trip on Beartooth Highway is a town called Red Lodge. It is an old town with lots of unique shops to visit (much better than my Livingston experience). We found - of all things - an English pub where we had a nice lunch. Doug had fish and chips and I had a cornish pasty which brought back memories of my trip to England with my mom. We walked through some of the shops and then got back on the road to brave the heights one more time. The views were spectacular the second time since we were seeing everything from a different angle. We stopped at several pull-outs along the way to marvel at the scenery. When we entered YNP again we drove until we got to Lamar Valley - one of my favorite places. We saw hundreds of bison in the valley and some were blocking traffic for a while. We ate our picnic dinner at a spot near Black Tail Creek. Stella was along for the trip today and enjoyed watching the prairie dogs around our picnic site. It was a great day and if you ever get the chance to touch the sky at Beartooth Highway - go for it!! ~ Michelle

The town of Red Lodge.

English beer for an English lunch.

Check out the winding roads on the side of this mountain. It is much steeper in real life...believe me!

Gorgeous!

A beautiful and fast waterfall that we hiked up to after seeing it as we went over a bridge.

Our Stella dog - she is such a good traveler!

The Amazing Beartooth Highway Part 1

2011-08-05T00:23:00.002-04:00

Today we drove through the northeastern part of YNP through Cook City to get onto the Beartooth Highway. It is rated the most scenic highway in North America. Check out the details at the website. http://www.beartoothhighway.com/index.html

I have attached only a few of the many photos that we took today and we knew that we would be disappointed in them. Not that the photos are bad - they are awesome. It is just that when we look at them, they do not capture the vastness, the majesty, the sheer height of the mountains that we traveled through and on. Travelling on this highway was a little daunting. At times we were so high up that we felt we could touch the clouds. Of course when you are up that high, it is a long way down. I tried not to panic as we edged our way back and forth on the sides of the mountains going around hairpin turns that had you looking out over nothing but air. We climbed up for what seemed like forever away from trees and into still snowy areas. We saw people actually tubing in one patch of snow probably 10,000 feet up! The air was so crisp and clean.

Check out Part 2 of our adventure today. ~ Michelle

It was so crazy to see so much snow in August. Not only did we see people tubing but we saw tracks on one area from skiers - crazy!!

Doug on top of the world.

This looks like it was taken out of the window of an airplane but we were standing at the edge of a very steep mountain.

Flowers are everywhere up in the higher elevations.

A Day in Livingston, Montana

2011-08-04T01:00:00.002-04:00

Today I drove into Livingston to check out the small shops in the historical section that I had read about. There is not much in this old town but it was fun to see the old buildings and poke around in the antique/junk shops. The drive to and from Livingston was the best part of the afternoon. It is amazing how big the mountains are and how much room there is out here. When you see cattle on a ranch they are spread out so far and look like little black dots on the landscape. This is very different than the cows we see in NY all crowded into a small farm area. Doug stayed home and kept his foot up. Hopefully the swelling will start to go down soon and he will be back in business.

We had a campfire tonight with the campers next door from Oswego. We enjoyed the company and the millions of bright stars above us. ~Michelle

One view of Main Street Livingston, Montana. It is an historic place but not much as far as shopping goes.

Here is some of what you see when driving the stretch between Gardiner and Livingston. It is a beautiful drive along the Yellowstone River and among all of the mountains. I put on a little Zack Brown Band and enjoyed the drive.

The weather can change quickly here in Gardiner. We planned to have dinner outside but this big cloud and some thunder rolled in so we went inside. After about 15 minutes the cloud had passed and it was blue skies again.

A Day in Bozeman, Montana

2011-08-04T00:35:00.002-04:00

Well, no fishing on this day due to Doug's sprained ankle. We drove into Bozeman and visited the older part of town with a nice variety of shops. It is such a quaint area and we always like to visit the book stores and the other specialty shops. Doug sat inside the coffee shop while I visited many of the unique places along Main Street. Doug made it to a book store or two and we both found some new reading material - as we always do. We had dinner, stocked up at the local Walmart and drove back to Gardiner. ~Michelle

We had coffee at a favorite coffee shop. Can you read his mind?..."I'd rather be fishing".

Bozeman's Sweet Pea Festival was starting and on this day it was sidewalk chalk day. Chalk creations were all over the sidewalks.

Ted Turner owns this restaurant. Two years ago Doug saw him there when we were having lunch.

I had to put this in for our boys. BBQ beef with mac n'cheese sandwich A great combination along with a good Scotch ale. Notice that Dad had his favorite PBR.

This is called Devil's Slide for obvious reasons. We pass this as we drive north out of Gardiner on our way to Livingston and Bozeman.

Ankle update...

2011-08-03T11:24:00.001-04:00

The old foot is healing, I think... it's sore and brightly colored... big as a softball. My whole foot is swollen! I bought a brace and wore that with Keen sandals yesterday, but today it's swollen big time. The only thing I can get on my foot is my Croc's... No way I can get into my wading shoes with a brace and a sock or into my wading boots either. I was suppose to guide tomorrow, that's out of the question. Hopefully by the weekend I can get out on the streams...

This is the good side!

This is the bad side....

Exploring a creek ~ paying the price!

2011-08-01T17:16:00.017-04:00

Last night Michelle and I had dinner with fellow guides Wilson and Ben, his girl friend Stef and good friends Dave and Esperanza at the Lighthouse Restaurant just outside of Gardiner. It was good to share a great meal and conversation with everyone. Of course the guys talked fishing and the girls talked everything else, typical, but I think I did hear a little fishing talk amongst them as well.

Anyway, Ben asked me if I was going fishing tomorrow, already knowing the answer.

I said that I was and he asked: "Where?"

I said: "Somewhere new - where I haven't been before."

"Is Chelle going with you?"

"No, she doesn't like going somewhere I haven't been, she likes to know what she's getting into before committing...."

So, this morning I headed for a West Slope Cutthroat stream I had never fished but know about inside YNP. I parked my truck geared up with pack, rod and lunch, intending to spend the whole day in there because I knew it would be a tough hike..... Little did I know.........

The plan was to bushwhack across a steep hill and then work my way down to a hidden meadow, then thru a canyon section, then into a second meadow section. Where I intended to start fishing, working my way back to the truck.

As I started working my way down towards the first meadow I stepped on a hidden rock the size of a baseball rolling my ankle with the sound of knuckles cracking! I went down in a heap.... I thought for sure I had broke it, no kidding! I laid there moaning for several seconds and in pain. Checking my ankle I felt better. It wasn't broke, I could wiggle my toes, move it and no bones were sticking out or anything...... so maybe I was OK..... Then it started to rain as I got up and limped around a little, my ankle still hurting like hell. Maybe I can walk it off. Hmmmm, maybe I can still make a go of it?

So, like any other fishing nut, I continued to slowly work my way down to the first meadow section. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the hoards of misquotes about my head and hands, a hundred anyway. My repellant was working OK till I got in the high wet grassed meadow section and then there were thousands!
Yes thousands in my nose, ears, everywhere... I hate misquotes, but this was crazy as they attacked me relentlessly. I worked my way out of the meadow to high ground and reapplied more bug dope.....

I had to catch at least one West Slope Cutty...

I continued to circle the first meadow around to the start of the canyon section. As I moved a short distance down the start of the canyon it got pretty steep. Looking down at the steep rocky cliffs in the canyon, there was no way I could make it down there much less back out with my sore ankle. I decided to start fishing from there at the start of the canyon, into the first meadow and then back to the truck. I knew it would be a tough just getting back from here.

I rigged up and promptly caught a "Westy" about 7 inches long, cool! Working the short canyon section (150 yards) before reaching the meadow I caught 12 more West Slopers, "unlucky 13" in all. That seemed like a good number to quit on with the way the day had gone so far. At the meadow now, with my sore ankle, rain and thousands of misquotes around me I packed it in and headed for the high ground and the truck. I had to stop often to rest my now throbbing ankle..... By the time I got to the truck I was a tired, wet, sweaty, limping mess.

Back home at our 5th wheel, Michelle is doctoring me up..... ice, and drugs!

Note: Chelle was damn glad she didn't go...... me too!

Photos:

Bushwhacking cross-country...

West Slope Cutthroat - beautiful fish...

Though injured, Dougie is winning the Antler Round-up!

Yeah I know.... But it still counts! Dougie = 6 Michelle = nill

A view of the first meadow section of this creek, to the right of the dead pine tree and the canyon section is beyond.

Yep it's the right one... It should look colorful for the next week... How am I going to fish?

Sightseeing and Fish Catching

2011-07-31T20:36:00.002-04:00

Today we drove through the northern part of the park. We went by Canyon Village and then on to Artist Point. This is considered the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and is amazing. The picture below doesn't really show how high we were or how majestic it really is. In years past we have been there at just the right time to see a rainbow in the mist of the falls - a real privilege. We also stopped at a little known hidden mud pot and you can see a few second video below. They are cool things but smell of sulphur. It is surprising how much elk sign you see around them but maybe they don't mind the odor.

We also fished this morning at Cascade Creek and caught some fish there. Many of them were fairly small but we both caught many nice cutthroats.

One of God's wonders - Artist Point. We actually saw several artists trying to capture the beauty.

The first catch of the day - a little cutthroat.

Doug's first catch on this tight little stretch of the stream.

The cutthroat are beautiful in this little stream.

Here are 3-4 seconds of the mud pot action that we saw today. These things are bubbling 24/7 - as Doug always says.

A Sunny Saturday

2011-07-30T22:25:00.000-04:00

No fishing today! Doug worked in the shop tying flies and I went for a walk. I found a shady spot right on the Yellowstone River and sat with the intention of reading my latest book. I sat with my feet in the river and did not get much reading done. Just a few yards up river was the site where rafts were put in for white water rafting trips. I sat and watched these go out and bobble down the fast water. I actually have no desire to do this. It looks like fun is some ways but I am not interested in holding on to a boat for dear life while bobbing up and down in a river moving faster than my car. I think I will stick to walking the shores of the rivers and getting a slow and close up look at the scenery.

After supper we met our new camping neighbors who are from Oswego. What a small world! Tomorrow we are going down near Canyon Village and to Artist Point - the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. We will have lunch along the way and then hit a favorite fishing spot.

My view from my "reading" spot.

Got "Split Tails"?

2011-07-30T10:08:00.001-04:00

Korn's Split Tail Hoppers, Crickets, Salmon & Golden Stones

Olive Hoppers? Yep the fish love them when the hoppers are on...

Folks, here are a couple of examples of the "Split Tail" fly... We have really been doing well the last couple of days with this fly... I really like the design as it has simple materials and a light weight body. The fly always lands right side up and the split tails allow for a stable float.

I am sorry that I don't have a photo of the Salmon or Golden version but you can find the instructions for them below. Good Luck and tie some up!

Hopper and Cricket

Hook: Daiichi #1720 3XL size 8-12
Thread: 6/0 to contrast with foam
Body/Head: 2mm foam cut wide as hook gap, tied in on top of hook, then wing deer hair applied and then the foam is folded over or applied separately (pink in photo)..
Options: cut/split the foam tail extending over hook bend, add a foam wrapped body (salmon fly orange body).
Wing: natural or dyed deer
Indicator: bright foam strip
Legs: Centipede Legs.

Note:

For Salmon flies: dark brown foam with an orange foam wrapped body with a mix of orange and natural deer hair. For Goldens, yellow foam and olive, yellow or natural deer hair..... Both with split tails.

The Gardner River at the High Bridge

2011-07-30T00:38:00.004-04:00

Our fishing trip today was on the Gardner River near the High Bridge. We walked in on a game trail to an area a little farther in than most people go. Walking on a game trail - elk, buffalo, wolves, and yes, bear - is not always easy. The elk may be able to walk up and down steep hills and along steep cliffs but I am not an elk! There were some places along the trail where we had to walk right along the edge of a steep cliff and it was a long way down. I kept my eyes on the path to make sure of my footing and tried not to think about how high we were. We trudged through mud that almost pulled my shoes off, waded through knee deep water and climbed over wobbly river rocks. In the end it was worth it to see some beautiful scenes and to catch some nice fish. I caught a very nice cutbow using a Korn's Split-tail Golden Stone dry fly. Doug spent a lot of his time guiding me and untangling my line in some pretty heavy brush. He did catch an awesome cutthroat toward the end of our afternoon which made it all worth while. It was a good fishing day and I know that I will sleep well tonight! ~Michelle

The start of the game trail near High Bridge over the Gardner River.

One of the runs that proved to be a favorite for the fish and for me.

Here is the cutbow that I caught. He is the biggest fish that I have caught so far in my fly fishing experience.

Doug pulled in a beauty of a cutthroat just at the end of our afternoon.

What a beautiful place! There is a new vista around every turn, one more amazing than the last.

The Elk Show

2011-07-30T00:38:00.002-04:00

We have been doing more than just fly fishing here in Gardiner. The last couple of nights we have been sitting outside watching the "Elk Show". We have seen at least 20 elk come strolling into the adjacent churchyard and then making their way over to the campground. They are not afraid of people or vehicles or little white dogs that yip at them. We just sit back, sip on a beer, and watch the show. Many of the other campers are out too and we have met some nice people. Friday night we went to Arch Park to see the Dead Winter Carpenters - a bluegrass band. The weather was perfect as you can see by the blue sky. The band was very good and the combination of good music, beautiful surroundings and good company made for a memorable night. ~Michelle

Bluegrass band playing just outside YNP. It was a beautiful night and the music just made it even better!

This elk was right next door to our campsite. She was eating the leaves off of the tree.

This bull elk had a harem with him all night. They walked around the campground and the churchyard next door.

Here is our campsite and a visiting elk. Stella was brave until one came too close and then she tried to take cover under the camper.

Here Stella got a little braver and actually acted like she wanted to play. The elk totally ignored her and kept on eating.

The pet walk is for the campground's visiting pets but it has been full of elk the past few nights.

Pocket Water...

2011-07-28T22:30:00.005-04:00

Michelle had Yoga class this morning and I had to tie some hoppers at the shop... But boy the weather was perfect for fishing, no wind, sunny and in the 80's. I was chomping at the bit to get out and wet a line...

I met Chelle back at the camper for lunch. After lunch she said she was going to take our dog, Stella for a walk thru town and then over to the high school to throw the ball for her and then find a shady spot and read her book... She asked me if I'd like to go along or was I going to go fishing?

I hesitated, that sounded like a trick question... But she assured me that she wanted to take it easy today and that I should go if I wanted... So, I went... Am I'm a lucky guy or what?

I had great fishing in the Gardner River this afternoon. I hiked in below Osprey Falls and had classic pocket water fishing, my favorite. High fast water makes for tiny pockets and demands accurate casting, great fun... I managed to catch the "Gardner Trout Slam" as we call it, consisting of a; rainbow, cutthroat, cutbow, brown and brook trout. All-in-all the fishing and the catching was outstanding. With lots of golden stone flies flying around it didn't surprise me that the fly of the day was a Korn's Split Tail Golden Stone. Yeah, the fish are look'in up! ~ Doug

A fat Brown Trout

This Rainbow was just one of many.

My only Cutthroat of the day.

For dinner - pizza on the grill... Does it get any better than this?

Fishing Gardner's Hole

2011-07-27T21:16:00.005-04:00

Today we fished at one of Doug's favorite places - Gardner's Hole. It is a beautiful valley with the Gardner River winding through it. The wind was fairly strong but we managed to catch quite a few brook trout on a coachman's trude fly. We walked in about one and a half miles and left all of the Yellowstone traffic behind. ~ Michelle

Here is the first fish of the day - a bit small but still worth reeling in.

Doug's first catch of the day.

Fishing from the bank of the winding Gardner River.

Here is the view in just one direction while fishing today. Notice the snow still up on the mountains.

Yeah - This is why we carry bear spray! If bear claws can do this to tree bark just think...no- let's not!

The Gardner River take... 2...

2011-07-26T23:50:00.003-04:00

Today I fished the same stretch of the Gardner River as yesterday...

Gardner River - towards the confluence with the Yellowstone River

Gardner River - near Rescue Creek TH

But today the fish were looking up for salmon flies. After two fish tried to eat my orange indicator on my nymphing rig I quickly changed over to a dry dropper set up with a Korn's Split Tailed Salmon Fly and a Korn's TNT Black Stone Nymph trailing about 12 inches back. Game on, with 16 fish brought to hand in 3 hours of rock hopping and difficult casting in high winds. Most of the fish were caught on the Split Tailed Salmon Fly including; Cutthroats, Browns, Rainbows and Cutt-bows.

First Cutthroat of the trip.

A dandy Brown Trout

Cutt-Bow

Also, I saw a beaver on the Gardner today. It stopped on a rock about 10 feet in front of me, then swam and floated 3 feet from the rock I was standing on heading downstream towards the Yellowstone River... It was a smaller beaver about 2 feet long counting his flat tail. I wish I could have gotten a photo... I can only guess he was displaced from the upper stretches of the river and was pushed along by the very fast currents. You just never know what you are going to see in Yellowstone Country. ~ Doug.

Locals

2011-07-26T21:47:00.002-04:00

Here are some of the local critters that are around camp from time to time..... They are not even afraid of the dog!

Mule Deer

Elk

The End... for now...

Fishing the lower Gardner today...

2011-07-25T18:48:00.007-04:00

This morning I checked in at the shop (Parks Fly Shop) and then got my truck over to the Tire Iron garage here in town for an oil change. Richard Parks and head guide Walter Wiese asked me if I would do a little guiding for them while I'm out here for the next month. I said I would.... one day a week.

Michelle was going to walk down into town later on after lunch and do some shopping. So after getting the truck back, grabbing a quick lunch with Chelle and gearing up, I headed for the lower Gardner River to give it a go...

The Salmon flies and Golden Stones are flying about but the fish are not looking up yet. My fellow guides told me that nymphs were working well. I also had a short conversation with Matt Minch, our local fly fishing guru. He said to go with the "action nymphs" that's a "Matt's Golden Stone" and a "Matt's Bead Hare and Copper", so that's what I started with and stayed with for the two hours of fishing I did. Two hours was enough to take me up my local beat. Over the last three years I have been fishing this stretch of river after work from 6-8 pm. or so and I know every hole very well.

It was HOT ~ 94 degrees and very windy. As I started fishing I could tell that someone had recently fished ahead of me, no matter I pressed on. Even with the high fast water I was able to land 7 of 11 fish. I had several fish on but only for a couple of seconds with the wind, fast currents and two heavy nymphs as-well-as an indicator my line control was a bit rusty.

All in all a nice outing - but the heat, Jerry the heat! ~ that's for you Seinfeld fans ~ Doug.

Here are a couple of photos:

A nice brown trout was the first fish of the day... also the first catch on my new Orvis Hydros 6 wt. fly rod.

Later on I picked up this nice rainbow on a bead-hare-copper nymph.

First Fishing Day

2011-07-24T19:13:00.001-04:00

Our first day of fishing was beautiful! We hiked in to a spot that Doug calls Soldier Rock Canyon. He didn't tell me that it was down a huge, steep, tree littered hill. The walk in was worth the vista! We had the whole river to ourselves. The water was running very fast and high with a difficult casting wind which was not in our favor since we were casting upstream. Even so, we each caught 5 fish - rainbows and brookies. We had a great day even with the grueling climb back out of this canyon - but hey, I did it! ~Michelle

Doug found this elk antler at the top of Soldier Rock Canyon. He is clearly leading the Antler Roundup competition!

Soldier Rock guarding the river. Notice how steep this is!!

First fish of the day - a little rainbow - he took a Coachman Trude.

Lunch time next to the river - gorgeous!

55 Dougie with his first catch of our YNP trip.

Doug gave me lesson in nymphing (which is a different kind of fly fishing) the deep pools using an indicator rig. I caught a brook trout and had a large rainbow on that was about 12 inches that got away (of course). Bummer!

Our Last Leg to Gardiner, Montana.

2011-07-23T15:01:00.002-04:00

Yesterday we left Rapid City, SD and drove through part of Wyoming and then through Montana to Gardiner. We had great weather for the entire day except for the last hour. Montana is big sky country and you can see several different weather systems around you at the same time. This rain system had some powerful lightning with it. Luckily it stopped in time for us to set up camp.

Today is laundry day and time to get some food in the pantry. Doug is getting all our gear ready for the first fishing trip tomorrow. It is so nice to have my own personal guide ~ Michelle

Here is our campsite for the next month. We are just up on the side of a small mountain in Gardiner, MT.

Here is a view of the thriving metropolis of Gardiner from our campground. We will be doing a lot of walking up and down hills to town and back.

Another view from our campground including the Yellowstone River below us.

Mount Rushmore

2011-07-21T18:36:00.000-04:00

It was a perfect day today! Blue sky, less than 100 degrees, lots of beautiful scenery, and tours of interesting monuments. We started out at Mount Rushmore and spent time there on a Ranger's walk. We walked along and listened to the interesting story of the monument and the artist behind it all. This thing is huge and I can't imagine working up there all day hanging from a rope. It took 14 years to complete and was only stopped because of the death of Gutzon Bolgar - the sculptor.

A perfect day for a visit with the presidents.

We also visited the Crazy Horse monument which is still in progress after 60 plus years. It is essentially being done by a handful of people from the artist's family. It is much bigger than Mt. Rushmore. There is a great facility there dedicated to Native Americans and their cultures. We had a great day and we are ready for the final leg of our journey to Gardiner, MT tomorrow.

This is the Crazy Horse Monument in progress.

Doug is in front of the sculptor's model and you can see the actual one in the background.

Crossing the Badlands

2011-07-20T22:21:00.000-04:00

Today was a much easier day as far as driving goes. We had 7 hours to Rapid City, SD and the heat had cooled off to at least 90 something.

Entering the Badlands.

Driving through South Dakota on I-90 is fairly easy. Even our Garmin got to take a break from watching the road. There are many fields of hay and you can see rolls and rolls of it along the highway. We saw cattle but that was about it for the wildlife. I'm sure the animals were trying to stay cool just like us. Tomorrow it is off to Mount Rushmore.

Corn, Corn, and More Corn

2011-07-19T22:54:00.001-04:00

Today we drove through four states; Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. Eleven hours of driving time is much too long for one day. We saw President Obama's stimulus money at work in many places on the roads. We also found many places that he forgot - south of Chicago being one of them. We had a bumpy ride during that part of the trip.
All in all it was a good day of traveling. We stopped for a short lunch just into Iowa and made it quick since the heat was unbearable. Thank goodness for air conditioning! We had thoughts of staying overnight at a Walmart when we originally planned the trip but that changed with the weather. We can't imagine sitting inside our little metal box on a night like this without the AC. It was a good day to be in a moving vehicle.
Much of what we saw today was corn field after corn field - oh, and some soybean fields here and there too. These fields went on and on with quite a few wind turbines sticking up along the landscape. It is beautiful country to ride through but the last hour seemed like it was never going to end. We finally got to the campsite in Jackson, MN and couldn't wait to jump in the pool. Too bad that the water was about 90 degrees. Not as refreshing as we would have liked but we will take it on a day like today. We are hoping for a quiet night since last night we were kept awake by a serious thunder and lightening storm.

One Day Done!

2011-07-18T21:21:00.001-04:00

We are sitting in a campground in Middlebury, Indiana. Our plan was to boondock at a Walmart parking lot tonight but the 100 degree heat changed our plans very quickly. We enjoyed the pool, are relaxing in the air conditioning, and planning our next day's travel in comfort. It sure beats sitting on the asphalt and frying in that huge frying pan!
First of all, Michelle was an excellent co-pilot today:) We rolled up and down the hills of PA and then across the entire state of Ohio. We ran into quite a thunder and lightening storm in Ohio but it didn't last too long and it was fun to watch - sort of.
We are learning a lot about pulling an RV and camping. First of all - don't forget and leave your travel coffee mugs on the counter of the RV when leaving in the morning. Luckily one cup stayed put and the other fell into the sink! And if you see something flapping in the wind from your RV, pull over and check it out. Some of our weather stripping came out and it was remarkable that it did not come totally off. It was an easy fix and we were on our way again.
The heat is crazy!! Each time I got gas - which was often with 8 mpg - I worked up quite a sweat. Stella is such a good traveler. She is happy to be in her crate in the AC but even happier to explore a new campsite. Tomorrow we are off to Jackson Minnesota - about 9 hours on the road.

50th Birthday

2011-07-16T11:38:00.000-04:00

Michelle celebrated her 50th birthday in Virginia. We all went to a beautiful winery for lunch to enjoy wine and family time. Then we were on to Old Town Winchester to walk around the mall area. The weather here has been unbelievable - mid 80's and a slight breeze. This is much better than the humid and hot weather at the beginning of the week.

A birthday lunch at Sunset Hills Vineyards.

Enjoying time with Russ, Shauna and Jackson.

Jackson was captivated by a street performer playing a guitar at Old Town Winchester.

55 On the Fly tying on the road.

Fishing today!

2011-07-14T22:09:00.001-04:00

My son Russ and I fished a small mountain stream in Shenandoah National Park. We hiked in about 2 miles and then worked our way down through the woods to the stream. We fished classic pocket water, my favorite type of fly fishing with small tumbling waterfalls, cascades and pools. The fly of the day was Walter Wiese's Clacka-Caddis, a killer fly in the Yellowstone Park area that seems to work very well here in SNP too. We caught some beautiful native brook trout and enjoyed the day together.....

Here are some photos:

Pocket water on a mountain stream.

Nature provided the snacks...

Russ working upstream.

Doug (55 on the fly)

Brookie...

Russ and a SNP Brook Trout

Russ at the last pool of the day --- It was a great day!

Go USA Women's Soccer Team!

2011-07-13T21:30:00.000-04:00

Today we spent time with Russ, Shauna and Jackson. We watched the women's soccer team win, had a great dinner - Shauna's homemade spaghetti sauce (yum) - and took a nice walk after the rainstorm. Stella didn't have her nap and is worn out!

On the Road!

2011-07-12T21:12:00.000-04:00

July 11
55 On the Fly is on vacation! My wife Michelle and I are embarking on a nice long vacation. We will be visiting family in Virginia and then it is on to Montana. We will be fly fishing, hiking, reading stacks of books, and living as Gardiner residents for several weeks.

July 12
We arrived in Virginia on Monday and set up the camper in a beautiful site. This morning we sat out and watched the cows in the nearby field behind us and enjoyed the breeze before the predicted 100 degree heat kicked in. We are spending time with our son Russ, daughter-in-law Shauna and our grandson Jackson. This leg of our trip is for family time. We had supper at camp, took a dip in the pool, and enjoyed our time together.

It won't be long now...

2011-06-21T14:13:00.000-04:00

Fishing hoppers, ya gotta love it... with the first days of summer come thoughts of fishing what we call "Happy Meals".

For tying this Parks Fly Shop Hopper - see this previous "55 on the fly" blog:
http://55onthefly.blogspot.com/2010/06/hopper-time-coming-soon.html

I tie them in many colors... but pink is the best we've found so far... Hint-hint, I'm tying up some purple body hoppers for this year to try. Good Luck!

Turkey wings on the fly

2011-06-16T13:23:00.001-04:00

When I harvest a turkey I put most every part of it to good use. The turkey's wings are most useful. I use the turkey wing feathers for tying flies and for fletching on my arrows. I make turkey calls with the wing bones. Here are two scrimshawed wing bone calls I just finished up for friends.

Out for a little fishing on Oatka Creek.

2011-06-09T11:45:00.000-04:00

It’s been awhile since I got out fishing with all the rain and high water. But Clint and I had a great time. The water was still high and off color but we took a dozen fish on top with Walter Wiese’s Clacka-Caddis tan #16 being the fly of the day!

Here are some photos:

Clint

Fox Squirrel Nymph by Dave Downie

2011-06-02T14:00:00.000-04:00

Here's one that Dave Downie ties.... you can find it on YouTube. An excellent fly for the Yellowstone National Park area.

I gave this one a go, here is my tie:

Hook: MFC 7026 #12 (#10-14)

Bead: 3.5 mm Copper

Thread: brown Uni 8/0

Tail & Legs: MFC small Centipede tan/brown

Rib: heavy copper wire

Body & Thorax: Red Fox Squirrel body fur dubbed spiky

Korn’s TNT Nymphs - Drakes & Stones

2011-06-01T11:18:00.002-04:00

Here's your chance to use your turkey tail material on these great TNT Nymph's (Turkey-N-Tail) nymphs. I'll be fishing these big time out in Montana in July and August. I tie the Drakes in green, brown and gray, all in size 12's. I also tie black stones in size 8's with a purple bead head... you of course can use copper, gold or black metal beads as well. Good Luck!

Golden Stone

Green Drake

Hook: Mustad 9671 #10 for Golden Stones and #12 for Drakes
Bead: Toho Glass Bead 6/0
Thread: Tobacco Brown Danville 6/0
Tail & Shell Back: Wild Turkey Tail Feather about a dozen fibers
Rib: heavy copper wire
Body: DK dubbing from PFS or your choice
Legs: Pheasant after-shaft feather, 1 1/2 turns...

Turkey down!

2011-05-25T14:27:00.001-04:00

Well folks it's turkey season and I love to be out there hunting the big birds this time of year. This spring the hunting has been tough with all the rain and such. Maybe I'm getting old but I hate hunting in the rain...

Anyway, I got out to hunt yesterday with my good friend Clint and we had a great morning. Clint had these birds figured out and he put this "Super Jake" right in my lap for an easy shot. The gobbler had a 7 inch beard, 1/2 inch spurs and weighed 17 pounds.

Lot's of good eating and fly tying materials, collected the old fashion way...

Korn's Marabou Caddis

2011-05-16T21:25:00.000-04:00

I designed this caddis fly to have a bubble back as an emerger. I use "Bug Bond" on the top of the thorax cover to produce this effect.

Notice the bubble back effect of the tinsel and the Bug Bond.

Hook: scud #14-16
Thread: 8/0 Uni brown
Rib: small copper
Body: marabou fibers dubbed on waxed thread, ribbed and brushed out to create fuzzy body
Wings/Legs: Partridge feather “V” cut and folded back for thorax cover
Thorax: hares ear dubbing
Thorax Cover: thin strip of holographic tinsel pulled forward over thorax cover... then apply a drop of bug bond on top and UV treat to harden.

Variations include: bead head, opal tinsel ribbing then used in the thorax cover, tan body and pheasant feather for wing and legs with squirrel dubbing for thorax. This fly is very effective as a dropper here on my home waters in NY in size #16 and size #14 in MT.

Next up!

2011-03-30T13:31:00.001-04:00

My version of Barr's Graphic Caddis - I am tying a bunch of these in olive and tan, #14 and #16's. Pictured here is the olive version... I use pheasant after-shafts instead of ostrich herl for the collar. I think it's a better color and much more life like. I tie with lots of pheasant and save these aftershafts for this fly, scuds and my drake nymphs. Go try some as a dropper, they're killer!

Hook: MFCo. #7045 2x heavy scud #14
Bead: Black or Copper 3.0 mm, optional
Thread: Serafil 200 or uni 8/0
Rib: stretch magic in .5 mm/.019 in., wrapped over
Abdomen: tinsel Halo med., then colored with sharpie pen
Wing: olive grizzly “V” cut feather
Collar: after-shaft of pheasant, 3 turns on #14, 2 on #16.

EMT Loop Wing Emerger

2011-03-18T14:26:00.001-04:00

What have I been tying lately?

EMT stands for "Emerging Mayfly for Trout". I tie this fly in three Drake colors and several sizes as well as smaller sizes for BWO and PMD emergers. The EMT Drake is my version of a foam loop emerger tied by several other people. (Craig Mathews at Blue Ribbon Flies and the late Dave Lewis, etc.)

The Loop Wing Emerger, as we call this fly at Parks fly Shop, has been a main-stay fly pattern for me when guiding and fishing in the Northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park. It’s a great pattern. When I tie my version of it I leave the foam head on it, giving it a little extra float and a nice big head..... When tying it for sale in the shop I trim the foam short and form a thread head, see the green drake below.

To fish the fly properly only grease the front hackle and foam loop. This allows the rear of the hook to penetrate the surface film.

Go tie some!

Gray Drake EMT

Hook: MFC #7076 12-14

Thread: Serafil 200

Shuck: gray zelon

Rib: Root Beer Pearl Flash

Abdomen: DK#19 Gray EMT dubbing

Wing: tan razor foam

Hackle: dun or grizzly, with bottom "V" clipped

P&P fly

2011-03-11T16:47:00.001-05:00

That's right a little something different, Pike and Pickerel flies...

It won't be long before we can get after a few of the toothy critters!

Got Spruce Moths?

2011-02-08T12:17:00.001-05:00

Hi folks it's been a while since I last posted on the blog --- you know; Holidays, kids, grand-kids and tying flies..... In fact, I've been tying my little fingers off.

Most recently, Spruce Moths, lots of them 40 dozen #14's for the shop. These flies are an absolute must have when fishing in Yellowstone Country. The spruce trees lining the rivers and creeks we fish are unfortunately infested with lots of Spruce Moths. If you've ever been out West you know that winds come up every afternoon and blow these moths into the creeks and the fish key on them. They just love-em like candy. In fact, when the fish are on them they won't take anything else. If you don't have some of these in your fly box and are going to be fishing out West this summer or early fall, you need to tie some up. Fish them as a dropper on the dead drift using the top fly as an indicator. Here's the pattern.

Korn’s Spruce Moth

Hook: 14-18, std. dry

Thread: Serafil 200 tan Rib: tag end of thread

Abdomen: cream dubbing split thread and spun.

Palmered hackle: honey or light ginger rooster neck, palmered front to back, trapped with tag end thread ribbed to eye, clipped short on top.

Wing: 2 buff pheasant or hen chicken flank feathers (very light ginger), tied in flat one on top of the other, 1/2 hook gap length longer than hook, tied behind eye then folded over to form head and wrapped and whip finished. Varnish head, clipped “^” out of center underside of the hackle.

New Web Site

2011-01-18T08:21:00.000-05:00

Walter Wiese - head guide at Parks Fly Shop, introduces the new PFS web site he designed and built. I think he did a great job, go check it out!

Walter on the Yellowstone River

New website by Walter Wiese Parks' Fly Shop now has a brand-new and super-snazzy site! Still at www.parksflyshop.com, but all other addresses have changed. Much of the information is the same, but some new things have been added, hatch charts and other fishing information have been updated, and the names and descriptions of our new flies for 2011 have been posted (still waiting on pics).

We're pushing private water trips much more for 2011, especially early and late in the year. The Paradise Valley spring creeks and private lakes in the area simply produce bigger fish and often more early in the season, and the lakes fish well all day in the fall, when the Yellowstone will only turn out an occasional pig in the AM but fishes well with dries in midafternoon at this time. Check the site for details, and let us know if you have any problems navigating it.

"Featured Fly Tier"

2010-12-03T08:01:00.000-05:00

Jay Smit, maker of the Jvice asked if I would like to be a featured tier on the Jvice web site. I was happy to say yes as I believe his vise to be the very best and really enjoy tying on it. When you tie 400 dozen flies a year, you've got to have a sturdy, comfortable and dependable vise to tie on.

Check out the web site and me on the Fly Tiers Page here: http://www.jvice.com/pages/tiers/doug_korn.html

Yellowstone Country Guardians

2010-11-24T11:48:00.001-05:00

Please check out the "Yellowstone Country Guardians"......... A great youth program that I had the privilege of donating a little of my guide time to. It was a joy, tying some flies and interacting with this wonderful group of young adults striving to improve and connect with each other and the natural wonders that surround us.

YCG Vision Statement:

The Yellowstone Country Guardians bring a powerful voice of hope and inclusivity to the lands and communities of Yellowstone Country. We are a place-based organization that inspires people to care for and love this region. Our deep sense of place and rootedness is engrained in the work we do and allows us to bring new and exciting ideas to Yellowstone Country and beyond.
Because we believe the fate of Yellowstone Country rests in the hands of its local communities, we invest in the area’s greatest asset—its youth. No one has more to lose from the despoilment of Yellowstone Country than the youth of this region; thus our youth-based programs enhance students’ connection to Yellowstone Country, empowering them to set the tone for the region’s future.
Through our education and outreach programs, we foster a deep understanding of the wildlands and wildlife found throughout our region. By nurturing our communities’ commitment to Yellowstone Country and animals like the grizzly bear—an umbrella species and indicator (guardian) of health throughout the Yellowstone Ecosystem, and perhaps the most authentic symbol of wildness in all of North America—we help ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of this sacred landscape.
We help newcomers to this land connect with long-time residents, thus bridging this cultural gap. Through our community work, we encourage new residents to the area to develop a deep and lasting sense of place, at the same time that we provide a platform for long-time residents to rediscover their love for this region.
By working with the youth of the region through our educational programs, we strive to create curriculum that helps students better understand the importance of fostering the protection of wildlife habitat, open space, and watershed quality.

Through community involvement we help our citizens live in active harmony with wildlife and their surroundings, while remaining a voice for both the people and the land.

Blog: http://ycg.typepad.com/yellowstone_country_guard/

Web Site: http://yellowstonecountryguardians.org/

Walter Wiese ties the Glass Head PT

2010-11-13T07:30:00.000-05:00

Hey folks, just a quick note to let you know that our Head Guide Walter Wiese at Parks Fly Shop is at it again. He is uploading some of our custom fly ties on YouTube. Check out Wally's Glass Head PT. Pay special attention to his soft hackle technique, I use this handy little trick all the time now.

The Glass Haed PT can be fished dead drift or on the swing, give it a try!

Soft Hackle Technique: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-dfsN0ZPkc

Glass Head PT fly: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxyVviiA7Jo&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

Turkey's down!

2010-10-30T08:31:00.000-04:00

What a day of turkey hunting we had Friday 10/29/10. Myself, Jim and Ben hunted in Cherry Creek, NY. We hunted two big fields where we knew the birds were feeding and traveling. I took a nice hen in the morning from my Double Bull blind as a flock of 30+ birds came to feed in the buckwheat. Ben got his hen in the afternoon, she was one of 27 birds feeding in the picked corn field he was watching. It was a cold rainy day but it sure paid off! I can tie all the turkey tail nymphs I want now...

Jimmy and I with my bird.

Ben with his hen, a 52 yard shot, yes that's reaching out there!

Upcoming speaking engagement...

2010-09-14T08:14:00.000-04:00

A little commercial break here... I'll be a guest speaker at the:

I'll have a slide show to present on "Fly Fishing Yellowstone National Park" and will do a few fly tying demos as well. It should be a fun weekend. http://www.swain.com/

Back from Montana!

2010-08-30T12:47:00.000-04:00

I've been gone over a month; vacationing, guiding and tying flies for Parks Fly Shop in Gardiner, Montana. I guided and fished in Yellowstone National Park. My son Russ drove out with me and stayed the first week and we had a ball and caught LOTS OF FISH!

Here's a few photos:

Russ casting...

Russ with his first fish on the Yellowstone River... but not his last!

Brookies... how many did we catch? Too many? Can you ever catch too many?

My best fish of the trip a Brown Trout of 20 1/4 inches from a Yellowstone River float with my fellow PFS guide, Ben Jewell. This big boy took an Olive and Cream Double Bunny streamer.

More photo's in upcoming blogs......

Korn's Hopper

2010-06-24T07:58:00.000-04:00

Folks, I've been tying lots of hoppers for the shop trying to finish up my fly tying orders. The trout fishing has been a bit off with double the rain for this month and high water levels at times. So, I've had some time to work on a new hopper design. This fly is designed with the foam in an upright position vs. a flat positioning on top of the hook shank. Seems like a good floater and it can be tied with or without the hair wing. I'll be fishing this proto-type out west next month...... What do you think?

Hopper Time - Coming soon!

2010-06-07T18:21:00.000-04:00

At the end of the Montana fishing season last year Wally, our head guide at Parks Fly Shop and I sat down at our fly tying stations and came up with this new hopper pattern for 2010. The key new feature on the proto-type pictured is the wrapped foam underbody abdomen. Pink was our hot color last season and we wanted the ability to customize the abdomen colors on our hoppers. This is basically Wally's GFA hopper with a wrapped underbody. It's a bit tricky to tie as we don't want any more than one set of thread wraps in the abdomen area. I'm tying hundreds of these hoppers for the shop in different sizes and various colors. I can't wait for hopper season in Yellowstone, it's a blast fishing these big flies when your used to fishing tiny trico's here in NY.... Go tie some!

Materials:
Hook: MFCo. 7026 2xl nymph 8-10
Thread: Red 6/0 Uni
Legs: MFC yellow speckled legs med. for 8’s and small for 10’s
Underbody: pink craft foam
Overbody: tan craft foam
Wing: natural deer hair
Indicator: orange craft foam

New Vise!

2010-06-01T12:46:00.000-04:00

Fellow fly tiers:

I thought I'd share a few thoughts and photos on my new fly tying vise. It's called a "Jvice". The vise is made by Jay Smit a one-man-band sort of speak and he is a master craftsman. My vise with C-clamp was $205 plus shipping. This is the best vise I have seen for the money. The vise has very solid hook holding capability and excellent function and quality. One of my goals this year was to upgrade my fly tying equipment and I've done that with this vise, my thanks Jay!

Check them out here: http://www.jvice.com/

Here is where the magic happens... I love tying flies and designing new fly patterns. In the vise is a Parks Fly Shop "Soda Fountain Biot Emerger" in size #18 that I tie for them. I featured it in a previous post. Go tie some!

Turkey - on the fly?

2010-05-29T19:58:00.000-04:00

I hadn't been out turkey hunting till yesterday... better late than never!

Shot this big old gobbler at 11:30.

9 3/4" beard
1 1/4" spurs - a real limbhanger!

Feathers for tying flies and making arrows!

Not to mention some very good eating.