Sage Method Fly Rods - Ultra Fast and Super Smooth

Steve Parrott — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:02:00 GMT

If you were a fan of the Sage TCX Series of fly rods that would dump a 100' fly line out of the tip or punch through the wind with ease, you will surely love the new Method Series from Sage. Super smooth casting in an ultra fast package which is all possible because of the incorporation of Sage's proprietary Konnetic Technology. Read more below..........

METHOD Fly Rod Series Combines Technology with Ultra-Fast Action

June 13, 2013 (Bainbridge Island, Wash.) – This summer, fly fishing industry leader, Sage Manufacturing announces the release of its 2014 premier collection of high performance rods called the METHOD series. These ultra-fast fly rods use Sage’s proprietary Konnetic technology. The METHOD delivers high line speeds and tight loops for extreme distance and wind-cutting casts all while maintaining critical accuracy and feel.

“Being able to offer fly rods that perform to the expectations of the most demanding anglers in any casting situation is the main reason behind designing the METHOD. Sage’s DNA is synonymous with fast-action rods, and through Konnetic technology, we’ve taken seriously smooth, ultra-fast action performance to a new place entirely,” comments Sage Chief Rod Designer, Jerry Siem. “Our newest high performance rods will make any caster better but will help experienced casters notch exceptional casts with regularity.”

The magma red colored shaft of the METHOD is complemented by rust colored primary thread wraps and pewter trim wraps. Fuji ceramic stripping guides and robust guide sets round out the features of this high-end rod series. The rods come in a black rod sock with a red silk-screen and are protected in a fusion red powder-coated rod tube with a silver colored medallion and gloss black end caps.

“Overall, the fast action ONE rod is still and will continue to be our flagship series for a wider range of anglers,” notes Sage Marketing Manager, Eric Gewiss. “The METHOD series makes it possible to take casting abilities to whole new level. It performs quickly and accurately close-in, but if anglers are looking for an ultra-fast action rod that is lightweight, exceptionally smooth yet has the extra punch for farther casts and windy conditions, this rod is for you.”

Twelve single-hand models will be available in 4-6 weights for freshwater with a cocobolo wood insert and black reel seat components paired with a snub-nose, half-wells grip. The saltwater capable 6-11 weights feature a black aluminum reel seat and a full wells handle and fighting butt. Nine Spey and switch models feature a high-grade cork fore and rear grip. The METHOD rods will range in price from $800-$1,050 and will be available August 1, 2013.

About Konnetic™ Technology:

Konnetic technology, the most recent and significant evolution in fly rod innovation, uses new materials combined with pioneering manufacturing methods and processes. This technology incorporates an optimized ratio of Sage’s proprietary resin to exclusive high modulus aerospace-grade carbon fiber.

The latest construction methods include Sage’s Advanced Modulus Positioning System (AMPS); a process that precisely aligns and positions carbon fiber materials to exacting tolerances for the greatest blank strength delivering extremely efficient energy transfer throughout the shaft. Using Sage’s High Compression Molding process, carbon fibers are compacted for optimum density and precise alignment while simultaneously fusing the 50% lighter all-carbon fiber inner core.

RIO Perception Fly Line - Connect With More Fish!!!

Steve Parrott — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:22:00 GMT

Unprecedented casting control and instantaneous feel. The trout line redefined.

RIO's revolutionary Perception floating trout line helps anglers connect with more fish than ever before. Built with ultra-low stretch ConnectCore Technology, Perception lines provide groundbreaking levels of sensitivity for intuitively better cast timing, easier line lift and sharp, precise mends. Lack of stretch also means enhanced detection of subtle takes and faster reaction time when setting the hook. Our exclusive SureFire color system (RIO’s uniquetri-color distance measure) improves casting accuracy by making it easy to gauge exact distances with a quick glance.

Unique three-color SureFire system ensures deadly accurate distance control
ConnectCore improves casting timing, hook set and mending
EasyID tag to quickly identify fly line"

Not knowing what to expect with this new fly line from RIO, fishing it was a must. We headed over to Tarryall Reservoir for a loch style session which typically involves sinking lines with a team of flies varying the retrieve. With very good surface activity, we decided to rig up a "washing line" with a large dry on the end and a team of midge pupa also known as "buzzers" on dropper tags. This can be a super productive method with the wind action moving the buzzers up and down in the water column imitating the rising midges.

The new RIO Perception fly line performed flawlessly with superb strike detection and the ability to set the hook quickly due to the ultra low stretch ConectCore RIO has incorporated into this line!!! The most amazing feature was how well this line casted with a 20 foot leader. It loaded the Sage ONE 10' - 7 weight with ease and the tip stayed nice and high in the water which is a must when fishing the "washing" line method to keep the flies at the desired depth.

If you are looking for a high performance fly line with all the latest and greatest features, look no further than the RIO Perception Fly Line!!!!!

Available in two colors - Green/Camo/Tan and Camo/Tan/Gray where the first color is the tip and the last color is the running line.

Retail - $89.95

Tailwaters to Stillwaters : Making the Transition to Lakes

Steve Parrott — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 03:34:00 GMT

What do you think of when fly fishing comes to mind? Is it bouncing a hopper off a streamside bank to a lurking trout? Perhaps it’s finding that perfect natural and matching the hatch or maybe its getting down deep and dredging a nymph rig through a picturesque pool? For many of us, the notion of fly fishing is almost always synonymous with rivers and with more and more anglers are hitting the water, it is always nice to diversify to find that solitude that will recharge the body and soul.

Spring is slowly creeping up on us and the snow pack is still well below average which may lend us to another brutal summer of low flow conditions. Consequently, many anglers will be looking for different ways to combine two things that are getting harder and harder to do in the midst of two consecutive drought years: One : Finding productive fishing spots that are not 70 degrees and Two : Solitude!!!

For me, I will be leaving the waders in the trunk and heading to the local reservoir.

Transitioning from a small stream and river based angler was certainly intimidating, and quite frankly still is in many ways. But both rivers and lakes share many similarities. Fish still like to hold in structure and transition zones, and all in all it’s really about getting your flies in the feeding zone. The most productive fishing I have found will be within the top 10 ft. of the water column. Often times, this may mean dries, emergers, dry dropper rigs, or indicator rigs. You can also run lighter sinking lines like an intermediate, hover or midge tip which will get your flies in the feeding zone quicker, and keep them at relatively the same depth for the duration of the retrieve. With that said, trout often go down deep as well. I believe this occurs most often during the heat of the day, or during other abnormally warm temperature situations. Here, a sweep type sinking line is ideal because you have a heavier sink rate at the back of the head and a lighter sink rate at the tip so when you retrieve the line, the fly is actually descending instead of ascending, which happens with most density compensated lines (tip is heavier than rear). This type of sinking fly line allows you to search different zones depending on how fast you retrieve the line, varying the speed until you find where the fish are holding. Once found, you can then switch to the appropriate density compensated sinking line, which will hold your flies in that zone longer.

Some of my favorite lake flies include the Hot Head Bugger, Pops Bugger, Blank Saver, and various chironomid patterns like Tak’s Holo Chironomid…but get creative. Often times using very bright and flashy flies, like a European style “Blob” or “Booby,” can be very beneficial in grabbing the fishes attention. Fishing these larger attractor flies utilizes a type of “shock” factor, which can trigger a trout to take. But as the name “attractor” implies, fish will often be lead to your rig by the attractor, but ultimately eat the more subtle and natural offerings. Depending on how the Blob or Booby flies are tied (foam eyes or tags) you can effective suspend your chironomids at a given depth depending on the speed of the retrieve? This is extremely effective when working shallow flats or gentle transition zones where fish are searching out emerging bugs.

Above are samples and a Booby Fly (left) and a Blob Fly (right) which can prove extremely effective on the point or bottom position of you lake rig. The Booby Fly will begin to float to the surface with a slow sinking or hover line giving the chironomid patterns in your rig the appearance of emerging. The Blob fly is a great attractor pattern that pushes a ton of water, grabbing the fishes attention via the lateral line.

Again, fishing nymphs can be fished very much the same way as you would a river. You can fish them via indicator (thingamabobber, yarn, ect), or dry dropper rigs. More experienced anglers may prefer to lose the indicator altogether, and rely on a floating fly line and feel for strike detection. Various Hares Ear patterns and other larger attractor patterns work great as well for nymph rigs. Fishing streamers is very similar to rivers as well, and can be fished with a variety of fly lines including both floating and sinking. Mixing up retrieve speeds and tempos is often beneficial, and can help determine what fish may be “keying” in on with your presentation. Try very long, slow, and delayed strips. Try extremely short and fast strips, and every speed and tempo in between.

As for fly rods, any 9’ 5 weight fly rod will generally work for most Stillwater applications. Through my experience walking the shore lines or fishing from a boat or float tube, a longer 10’ rod in a 6 or 7 weight is more beneficial because of the extra power that can be generated from a standing or seated position. The longer you can cast, the longer your retrieve which means flies are in the water longer and your chances of a fish seeing or better yet eating your flies greatly increases. Another added benefit of using heavier line weights is the resistance in the water. When a fish takes the fly and turns with it, the resistance of the line changing directions in the water often sets the hook so all you have to do it tighten up. So when the heat is on this summer, and rivers run low...beat the crowds on your local lake or reservoir and have fun catching fish in yet another way!

About the Author:

Brian Kelso, a Colorado native began his fly fishing career at an early age and while in college at Western State in Gunnison, honed the necessary skills fishing rivers like the Taylor, East Fork as well as the abundant lakes and reservoirs in the area.

Brian is one of our web customer service specialist at the Blue Quill Angler getting all of those orders out the door at a blistering pace.

He is also a Colorado Fly Fishing Team member and regularly competes in local, regional and National fly fishing competitions.

New Sage Products for 2013 - IN STOCK!!!

Steve Parrott — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:19:00 GMT

Typically Sage introduces now products in the Fall but with the addition of some really cool packs and bags as well as the long anticipated Sage ESN 11' - 3 weight - 4 piece we have something to get axcited about in March!!!.

Sage produced an extremely popular line of packs and bag they called the DXL Typhoon series. Those packs were one of the few in the fly fishing market that offered anglers a true waterproof compartment but there were some design issues that have now been addressed with the new design.

These next generation packs and bags up the ante in the never ending battle against the elements. Sage pioneered some new technologies with these packs like the SubZipper, TPU coated zippers, magnetic closures and tool keeper to keep your gear dry and accessible. This new line of packs and bags offers you the most advanced construction on earth with top tier perfromnace and functionality.

Sage Technical Boat Bag - $300.00

Perfect for the drift boat, raft or traveling angler who want to keep their gear nice and dry. Large enough to hold just about everything you would need for a week of floating or flats fishing. More info........

Capacity - 1953 cu in

Dimensions - 21'' x 12'' x 13''

Color - Cobalt/Storm

Sage Technical Waist Pack - Large - $250.00

Large enough to hold the kitchen sink with a completely waterproof zipper. You can fall in, lay in the water or endure one on those summer rainstorms that we get here in the Rockies without a worry. This will keep your boxes nice and dry!! More info........

Capacity - 671 cu in

Dimensions - 14'' x 8'' x 8''

Color - Cobalt/storm

Sage Technical Waist Pack - Small - $150.00

Compact and completely waterproof. This pack will hold enough for a days fishing and keep the contents nice and dry if you fall in or get that errant rain shower. More info.......

Capacity - 336 cu in

Dimensions - 13'' x 6'' x 7.5''

Color - Cobalt/Storm

Sage Technical Backpack - $275.00

A really cool backpack that will hold all of the necessary gear you need for a day on the river. Completely waterproof from the fabric to the zippers so all of your valuable contents will stay dry if it rains or you decide to take that unexpected swim in the river. More info.......

Capacity - 1709 cu in

Dimensions - 15'' x 9'' x 22''

Color - Cobalt/Storm

Sage ESN 11' - 3 Weight - 4 Piece - IN STOCK!!!Sage ESN 11' - 3 Weight - 4 Piece - IN STOCK!!!

Euro nymphers rejoice as the the long anticipated Sage ESN 11' - 3 weight - 4 piece fly rod is now IN STOCK!!!! The 10' models of the ESN set the new standard for a Euro specific nymphing rod but most anglers wanted something a little longer. Sage recognized this and through extensive development and field testing, the 11' version was born. Offered in the most popular line weight - 3, the 11' 3 weight ESN is the furthest thing from a "true" 3 weight. The first 40+ inches of this rod act just like a 3 weight then the engineering begins with increased strength through the middle and butt section for incredible fish fighting power. The rod is light and incredibly sensitive and with that extra foot of reach, long leader issues are a thing of the past!!!

More on the Sage ESN 11' - 3 weight - 4 Piece...............

New Umpqua Packs and Bags - IN STOCK

Steve Parrott — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 19:42:00 GMT

This completely new line of Umpqua Packs and bags was spawned from a need to bring fishing packs into the 21st century. Becasue fishing packs have remained outdated compared to those made for the outdoor industry (backpacking, climbing and Skiing), Umpqua was driven to partner with the best designers and manufacturers in the ourdoor industry to create a truly modern line of packs and bags specifically for fly fishermen. They didn't build the line around a specific technology or a specific material - they designed them to perform with the expectations of the most demanding fly fishermen, guides and professionals and to assure they exceed the expectations of anyone on the water. This is true of all the Umpqua products with the Umpqua Professional Guide (UPG) seal, there were developed and tested by Umpqua's dedicated and diverse team of guides and professionals.

Umpqua Ledges 500 Waist Pack - $99.95:

The Ledges 500 is an essential fly-fishing pack. Unlike any other waist pack on the market, a suspended back panel provides all-day comfort, support and ventilation. Everything else is icing on the cake...and lots of it. More info.......

Features:

Dimensions - 11''W x 8''H x 8''D
Volume - 500 cubic inches
Weight - 25oz

Umpqua Ledges 650 Waist Pack - $129.95:

The Ledges 650 is the ultimate large fishing waist-pack. At over 650 cubic inches this pack will carry it all. Its suspended back panel with a light-weight aluminum stay provides all-day comfort, support and ventilation. Loaded with lots of other great features any angler will love the versatility and comfort of this waist-pack. More info.......

Features:

Dimensions - 11''W x 8''H x 10''D
Volume - 650 cubic inches
Weight - 28oz

Umpqua Overlook 500 Chest Pack - $99.95:

With the full-featured Overlook 500, deep waders and minimalist will no longer need to sacrifice. We eliminated the typical chest-pack neck-strap for serious, all-day comfort and a low, tapered profile to ensure unhindered casting and visibility. More info.......

Features:

Dimensions - 12''W x 8''H x 5''D
Volume - 500 cubic inches
Weight - 19oz

Umpqua Surveyor 1100 Backpack - $179.95:

The Surveyor 1100 takes the “fly-fishing” backpack to the next level. This is real mountain-technical gear with an aluminum stay suspended back-panel for proper suspension and ventilation. Integrates with waist- and chest-packs. More info.......

Features:

Dimensions - 12''W x 18''H x 10''D
Volume - 1100 cubic inches
Weight - 40oz

Umpqua Famous 2500 Boat Bag - $199.95:

The Famous 2500 sets itself apart with a fully-functional work station built into the EVA-molded lid. The “Famous” comes complete with drink holders, non-skid feet, pliers pockets and a deep water-proof base. More info.........

Features:

Dimensions - 18''W x 11''H x 12''D
Volume - 2500 cubic inches
Weight - 61oz

Umpqua Deadline 3500 Wet/Dry Duffel - $159.95:

The Deadline 3500 is designed to get you anywhere with all of your gear. Your default carry-on, and gear-up/ gear-down partner, it’s perfect for everything including waders, boots, gear, etc., and will keep wet and dry gear safely apart and readily at hand. More info.......

Features:

Dimensions - 14''W x 24''H x 8''D
Volume - 3500 cubic inches
Weight - 49oz

Blue River - Colorado - Winter Fly Fishing!!!

Steve Parrott — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 04:28:00 GMT

Most people think of Colorado as a skiers paradise during the Winter months which is true but just becasue the snow is flying does not mean the fishing is bad. Focusing on tailwater rivers (rivers below dams with a consistent water temperature being release) is the perfect place to get out in the dead of winter and catch a few fish!!!

Joe Shafer, veteran Blue Quill Angler guide made the journey to the Blue River located in the town of Silverthorne, Colorado today and was rewarded with very little fishing pressure and some really incredible fish!!!!

Here is what Joe had to say:

The bite is on a the Blue with a recent bump in flow out of Dillon dam from 53 to 116 cfs. Laney's Mysis Shrimp pattern was the ticket from the dam all the way to city hall. Even with the higher flows, the fish are still spooky so 5x and 6x fluorocarbon tippets are a must!

Sight fishing is the best way to approach the Blue right now! Find your target, move into the position needed to produce the best drag free drift without spooking the fish and hang on. There are some areas of "dead" water where fish are not holding so be willing to move and look for fish instead of staying put all day. Moving will also help warm up the cold toes and fingers!

The most productive zones were just off the seams of faster runs where you can see fish moving in and out of the faster current. Midge/Mysis combo was the best set-up today ranging in sizes from 18 down to 24. Rig the Laney's Mysis Shrimp pattern on the top with a Mercury Midge, Medallion Midge, Chironoflash Midge Pupa or Minute Midge - brown on the bottom. Adjusting the weight with the changing river conditions is a must so you present the fly right in front of the fish!!!!

There are some 20+ inch fish lurking around if you keep a trained eye to the water! Wait patiently and stare where you think they are and you will find them. Don't sit at home wishing you were fishing, get out there and have some fun!!!

Interested in a guided fly fishing trip to the Blue River with Joe? Give us a call at 800-435-5353 or submit a guided trip request form by clicking here to experience these amazing fish first hand!!!!

About Joe Shafer:

Joe Safer was born and raised in Colorado. He was taught to fly fish at the young age of five by his grandmother at their family cabin on South Boulder Creek. He has a fierce passion for fly fishing and really enjoys teaching beginners the wonderful sport. Joe noted, " there's nothing more rewarding than seeing an angler catch their first trout on a fly". Joe's sense of humor combined with his outgoing personality really makes for a fun day on or off the river.

Joe loves fly fishing for pike, bass, carp, salmon, and trout. You may fund him on any body of water that has fish in it. When not working, you will find Joe fishing with his best friend and fellow Blue Quill guide jerry or spending time with his wife Cindy, and his two daughters Delaney and Ella.

Sage Fly Rods Producing 11' 3 Weight Version of the ESN Series Rods

Steve Parrott — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 22:22:00 GMT

When Sage released the ESN (European Style Nymphing) rods in the Fall of 2011, they were immediatley on track to top the European Nymphing specialty fly rod market!!!! Super light, responsive with a tip that would protect the lightest of tippets with ease. Most anglers who were in the market for a Euro specific rod rejoiced as there was finally an option that would not feel like you were fishing with a club or better yet a wet noodle!!! The only thing missing was the 11' model which seems to be one of the most sought after lengths among this incredibly small but growing community.

Well I can tell you that the wait will be rewarded with a super light, incredibly responsive 11' version offered only in a 3 weight. Most anglers will question fishing a 3 weight with heavy flies or attempting to land larger trout with a 3 weight. Rest assured the Sage ESN 11' - 3 weight will handle it with ease!!!! This rod is unlike any other 11' 3 weight on the market today. Most anglers who wanted an 11' rod were willing to sacrifice action and or sensitivity for length. The Sage ESN 11' 3 weight has covered all of the bases.

I have been fortunate enough to have the prototype of this rod and can honestly say that it is one of the finest European Nymphing rods I have held and fished. First impression for me was the solid looking blank. The only thing that screams 3 weight is the super supple tip section and the weight in your hand!!! The middle sections of the rod resemble more of a 4 or 5 weight and the butt section more along the lines of a 6. Your eyes are not deceiving you, that is exactly the way the rod is built using Sage's proprietary Konnetic Technology that allows them to construct a thinner walled blank with little or no wasted space between the fibers making them incredibly light and extremely responsive!!!

The extra length provides a better degree of stealth, makes the Long Line methods a breeze and has plenty of backbone to land big fish with ease. One of the features in the ESN 11' 3 weight was the snub wells handle that Sage uses on all of the Sage ONE series rods. This grip is incredibly comfortable and will not cause hand an forearm fatigue like a cigar shaped handle causes due to your thumb always being pushed down a slope as slight as it may be.

A couple of other noticeable changes from the original ESN Series was the incorporation of a 1" fighting butt at the end of the rod which allows me to rest the butt section on the underside of my arm while fishing with an outstretched arm position. This aids in fighting larger fish as well as achieving perfect form of having the rod as an extension of your arm!!!

The last addition was the addition of an aluminum reel seat to add extra weight at the rear of the rod which helps achieve a better balance point. Paired with one of the new Sage 4660 reels, the 11' 3 weight will balance right at the front of the cork which is ideal for Euro Nymphing as you can place your index finger on the blank for increase strike detection!!!

I loaned the rod to a good friend of mine, Josh Graffam - Fly Fishing Team USA member to fish for a couple of weeks to get his input as well. Josh's first response was "this is one incredible rod that is a true game changer when fishing the European Methods, especially in competition settings! The sensitivity is dead on and the incorporation of the new grip with fighting butt makes this the Ultimate Euro Rod" The only question he had for me was "when are they avaialable and whatever that date is, I will take two"

If you are in the market for a Euro specific nymphing rod or just want to add another soldier to your assault, you need to take a long, hard look at the Sage ESN 11' 3 weight. Others may disagree or baulk at the price but I can honestly tell you that there is nothing else like it on the market today!!!

Specification:

Length - 11'

Line weight - 3

# of section - 4

Handle - Snub Nose Modified Wells

Reel Seat - Anodized Aluminum with locking reel seat and 1" fighting butt

Weight - 3 1/2 oz

Retail - $699.00

Available - NOW!!!

Fly Fishing Trips in Colorado with the Blue Quill Angler

Steve Parrott — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 03:58:00 GMT

The Blue Quill Angler, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains is within reach of some of the finest fly fishing water Colorado has to offer. Combine that with our World Class Fly Fishing Guide Service and you have a combination that cannot be beat!!!

Our veteran guide staff lead by Pat Dorsey will teach you the intricacies of fly fishing if you are new to the sport. For the seasoned angler looking to improve your skills, we have some of the most technical trout anywhere in the country and our staff will teach you the necessary tricks needed to present your fly, acheive the perfect drift, key in on the subtle clues needed to land these fish. With this knowledge, your trout fishing will be elevated to a new level!!!

The Blue Quill Angler has access to a ton of water which allows us to create the type of trip you are looking for. Whether it is technical rainbows in Cheesman Canyon, pocket water dry fly fishing on Clear Creek or wading a big river like the Colorado for browns and rainbows.

Below is a list of rivers the Blue Quill Angler has permits to guide on and a little history as well. With this amount of Gold Medal trout water, we are confident we can put together the trip of a lifetime for you!!!

Arkansas River:

With over 300 miles of river, the Arkansas River starts it journey deep in the Sawatch Mountains (highest mountain range in Colorado) and runs unobstructed until it reaches the eastern plains and a dam in the town of Pueblo.
While it’s the longest river in Colorado, this river is mostly fished from Twin Lakes to Canon City and on into Pueblo. One of the most well known hatches in the west is the Mother’s Day Caddis hatch. Late morning hatches and evening dry fly fishing are highlights of this annual hatch from Mid-April to Mid-Late May.

Terrestrials such as ants, beetles, grass hoppers, and crickets are great choices during the hot summer months of June through September. Mayflies are thick during their spring hatch of late March through mid May, while thinner during the fall hatch of mid September through early November.

The river’s spring runoff starts mid May, with peak 3,000 cfs mid June, 1,300 cfs mid July, slowly dropping into the fall months. Typically flows between 300-500 cfs from late fall through early spring. Winter months are great time to fish with consistently clear water days and great midge and Baetis hatch below Pueblo Reservoir.

Blue River:

Trophy trout can be found right in the heart of Silverthorne’s Shopping district as a direct result of feeding on the Mysis Shrimp coming out of Lake Dillion dam. This prehistoric creature is said to have over ten times the amount of protein that a trout would typically see in its daily diet, so you can imagine the size of some of these fish.

As the Blue River continues to flow, it moves towards Green Mountain reservoir, and on into the Gore Range. Eagle's Nest Wilderness Area also adds a spectacular back drop to the setting. Successful hatches include PMD’s, Red Quills, Caddis, Green Drakes, Blue Wing Olives, and Midges. The river can be great for dry fly patterns into the afternoon and evening.

Cheesman Canyon - South Platte River:

Jim Cannon of the Blue Quill Angler states “…anytime is the right time to fish Cheesman Canyon, it can be fished all year”. The boulder-filled Cheesman Canyon section of the South Platte River is considered by many to be one of the most pristine fisheries in the world.

In 1976, it became the first section of river in Colorado to be protected with catch and release regulations. The Canyon is an unforgettable fly fishing experience. A roughly 1.5 mile hike from the parking lot to the river’s edge presents the angler with three miles of beautiful canyon with Bald Eagles a flight, a river filled with enormous boulders and superb river banks to fish. It is a perfect day trip alone, with family or fishing buddies.

This three-mile section is fished most successfully with nymphs and anglers can expect to catch large rainbows and good-sized browns within the close company of other fisherman. The Canyon is best fished on overcast days with good presentation only 2 or 3” away from the fish’s nose. It has been said “if you can catch fish in The Canyon, you can catch them anywhere”.

The best reviews from our clients come in the spring when blue-winged olives start to show themselves on a regular basis (late March through late May). Flows are perfect that time of year from 100-300 cfs”.

Clear Creek:

In 1988 when the Blue Quill opened its doors, there was very little fly fishing going on in Clear Creek. The river had suffered over one hundred years of mining pollution, channeling and chemical spills along I-70. Since 1983, Clear Creek has been a Federal Super Fund clean-up site and each year the water seems cleaner, the hatches of aquatic insects more abundant and the fishing better and better. Clear Creek is only seven miles from BQA and is home to a very high number of naturally reproducing brown trout.

Clear Creek Watershed is unique. With a mountain range of 14,000 foot peaks as its western boundary and approximately sixty linear miles of mainstream river water, it hosts a variety of natural habitats and wildlife populations. Much of Clear Creek is open to fishing from Golden all the way west to Georgetown. There are many pull-offs on HWY 6 and lots of access points on the service road that parallels I-70. Much of the river is channeled and rocky and can be a dangerous stream to fish especially during run-off though it remains a popular front range stream for kayaks and rafts.

Despite the inerrant problems with the environment, Clear Creek can be a very fun and exciting stream to fish with a stimulator or a bead head dropper. The fish are often pushed over on the edges and seem to be behind every rock. Czech nymphing techniques can also be very productive. Clear Creek is the perfect place for an afternoon or evening of fly fishing without the long drive necessary to many other spots and offers many miles of productive angling with low angling pressure.

Colorado River:

The Colorado River begins its 1450-mile journey in Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, flowing through the Grand Canyon in Arizona to the Gulf of California located between the Baja Peninsula of California and the mainland of Mexico. In Colorado, as the river travels west from Rocky Mountain National Park, it convergences with the Fraser River and near the town of Hot Sulfur Springs, provides fantastic fly fishing.

Some of the river’s most popular fishing areas can be found west of Byers Canyon; places such as Paul Gilbert, Lone Buck, Parshall, Kemp-Breeze, Sun Set Ranch, Reeder’s Creek, and the Pump House to Radium stretch just to name a few. Designated as the state’s Gold Medal Water and known for its dry fly fishing, the Colorado River has excellent fishing opportunities both wading and floating.

Brown trout are healthy and there are plenty to be caught in the 12-16’ range. The rainbows are scarce but if an angler is lucky enough to land one, chances are it will be a bruiser. Not many rainbows survived the Whirling Disease epidemic but those that did tend to be serious rod benders.

Deckers/Trumbull - South Platte River:

The area below Cheesman Canyon is the popular Deckers area where anglers enjoy easy access and plenty of opportunity to catch fish. The best fishing is from the bridge crossing to the lower boundary of the WigWam Club.

Since the Hayman Fire, Horse Creek has been running more mud than water caused by runoff accumulating through the burn site. When this is the case, fishing is typically very poor below Deckers’ bridge. But when Horse Creek clears chances are the fishing is very good downstream.

Since fishing in Deckers is hit or miss for dry fly action, nymphing is key for catching the large brown and rainbow trout. The ideal flow for Deckers is between 150-400 cfs.

Spinney Mountain Ranch - South Platte River:

The winding, treeless, meadow portion of the South Platte River between Spinney and Elevenmile Reservoirs is known as the Dream Stream. Recently this was renamed the Charlies Meyers State Wildlife Area in rememberance of the late Charlie Meyers, outdoor editor for the Denver Post. He was a great man and it is only appropriate to name one of the finest fly fishing areas in the State of Colorado in his name.

The scenery includes Pikes Peak to the east, lush grass and farmland to the north and south, and many majestic 14,000 foot peaks to the west. There are several well known hatches including in mid-May the PMD hatch, the terrestrials after three p.m. on the hottest of summer days and, in October, early morning and late night wooly buggers helping to land big brown trout and kokanee salmon.

One of the most sought after hatch on this stretch of water is the Trico hatch in mid-July when a #24 Black Spinner looks like a giant next to the natural bugs found in large clumps in the water. Pat Dorsey’s stream report states “spring and fall spawning runs from Elevenmile Reservoir are quite impressive with fish up to 12 pounds landed during a key three-four week period”. Ideal flow conditions for the Dream Stream are between 100 cfs and 250 cfs.

Williams Fork River:

The Williams Fork River, aka The Fork, parallels the Blue River and is a tributary of the Colorado. It holds one of the finest populations of brown trout in the west. From the Williams Fork Dam, downstream to the Colorado River, is a two-mile stretch of fly fishing paradise.

A full thirty minute hike from the parking area to the river helps keep fishing pressure low. Anglers can catch trout with all specialties in fly fishing from nymphs to streamers to dry flies. Unfortunately, the devastation that the Whirling disease has had on the rainbow trout is very apparent. But the browns are still there in impressive numbers.

If you want to feel like you are in the middle of nowhere while whacking some really beautiful browns, the Williams Fork is the place to be!!

Private Fly Fishing Opportunities in Colorado:

Boxwood Gulch Ranch - North Fork of the South Platte River:

This section of the South Platte River is one of Denver’s premier fishing destinations. Winter or summer, the fishing is great! If you need a guide for an angler’s first fishing trip or a place large enough for a corporate adventure, Boxwood Gulch is the perfect location.

Over nine species of trout call these waters home including: Rainbows (50%), Browns (30%), Cuttbows (20%), Snake River Cutthroats, Brookies, the elusive Palomino Trout plus various species of Steelhead. Big flies work well and feeding can be aggressive in this stretch of water. Watch out for rising fish! With little less than one mile of private water to fish, anglers have the advantage of not bumping into other fisherman. The river usually runs 50-200 cfs, but can reach 900 cfs in June.

Long Meadow Ranch - North Fork of the South Platte River (just above Boxwood Gulch):

Long Meadow Ranch is located about 50 miles from Denver in Shawnee, Colorado and is comprised of over two miles of private trout waters along the North Fork of the South Platte River. It is just upstream from Boxwood Gulch and offers some of the finest private water fly fishing trips in the state.

Anglers claim that Long Meadow holds some of the biggest fish around! During the summer months stimulators, green drakes, red quill, and hoppers work well while nymphs work well all year long. Long Meadow Ranch is the perfect place to catch the five fish that comprise the Colorado Grand Slam: a rainbow, cutthroat, hybrid cut-bow, brook trout and a brown.

Rocky Mountain Angling Club Properties:

The Rocky Mountain Angling Club offers its members exclusive access to quality catch and release fly fishing by way of arrangements with private property owners throughout the Rocky Mountains. The Blue Quill Angler has access to these properties which are some of the most overlooked fisheries in the State.

Members enjoy access to over 50 premier fly fishing properties in Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Montana. Gold medal fishing opportunities abound with access to over 90 miles of rivers and streams and 25 trophy-producing ponds and lakes. RMAC provides exceptional fishing on under-fished, uncrowded waters. Whether its stalking trophy browns, float tubing for Donaldson Steelhead, or casting for ravenous brookies, RMAC membership provides access to fishing opportunities never thought possible.

Fishing on RMAC properties is by reservation only on a first come, first served basis. The number of anglers on each mile of stream is limited, as we strive to provide quality, uncrowded fishing opportunities.

With all of these World Class rivers at our fingertips, the Blue Quill Angler guide staff can put together the perfect trip for you whether you are a local angler or from out of State. Rest assured that our professional staff will cater to your needs to guarantee an enjoyable day on the water!!!!

Fishpond Westwater Series - Waterproof Gear Bags and Pack for Anglers

Steve Parrott — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:16:00 GMT

We have all come to love the vest packs and bags that Fishpond has offered over the years. They are functional, durable and designed by anglers for anglers. The only thing missing was a "true" water resistant offering for anglers who like to wade deep or travel to remote areas and need to keep their gear dry.

There are a bunch of manufactuers who make highly water resistant gear bags and packs not, but leave it to Fishpond to up the ante on design, functionality and durability!!!!

The Westwater Series from Fishpond offers a broad selection of TPC welded fabric that is waterproof with a highly water resistant YKK zipper. These are not "true" dry bags but they will do a fine job of keeping your gear safe and sound.

The line-up for 2013 includes:

Fishpond Westwater Chest Pack - $79.95

When pure functionality is what you are looking for, look no further.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Modular design allows for the pack to attach to the Westwater Backpack, or a number of other fishpond Tech Packs
Accessories D-rings, and attachment tabs
Dual interior organization pockets
Back pass-through slot for belt attachment
Adjustable shoulder straps allows for the pack to be used as a chestpack, or as a sling
Color: Drake/Shale
Heavy duty 420d TPU Fabric
10.25 x 6.5 x 3

Fishpond Westwater Guide Lumbar Pack - $139.95

All of the features that fishpond is known for, but with the added benefits of a welded design.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Integrated guide net slot
Large zipper opening with two interior accessory pouches
Accessories D-rings, and attachment tabs
Mesh lumbar support for increased ventilation and comfort
Bottom cinch straps for an extra layer or rod tube
Adjustable padded shoulder straps included
Color: Steelhead/Pacific
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
1.4lb/460 cu. in.
12.5 x 4.75 x 10.5

Fishpond Westwater Sling Pack - $149.95

This sling is the best of both worlds with the support of a backpack, and the functionality of a sling.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Design allows quick access to the zippered compartments
Breathable mesh back and strap for comfort
Nylon waist strap
Side fishpond rod tube straps
D-ring hanger for a net, or other accessories
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
1.3lb/795 cu. in.
16.75 x 10 x 5
Color: Steelhead/Pacific

Fishpond Westwater Pouch - $29.95

The perfect waterproof pouch to protect your phone or camera while on the river.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
Secure roll-top closure
Removable Velcro® padding to protect your valuables
Webbing loop allows attachment belts/packs or wading belts.
Fits almost all point and shoot style cameras, phones, or other small accessories
Color: Shale/Drake
Heavy duty 420d TPU Fabric
.25lb
6 x 4.5 x 2.75

Fishpond Westwater Roll-Top Dry Bag - $37.95 to $45.95

Durable, yet lightweight with a convenient see-through window to quickly get what you need. Offered in two sizes to accommodate your needs.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
Transparent window to quickly find your gear
Roll-top design
Built in D-ring
Heavy duty 420d TPU Fabric

Small: 16.5 x 9 915 cu. in. Color: Rust

Large: 23 x 13.5 2,623 cu. in. Color: Drake

Fishpond Westwater Roll-Top Duffel - $159.95

The perfect sized bag for a days worth of gear guiding on the water, with the added security of a roll-top design.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Roll top design to keep your gear safe
One exterior accessory pocket
Wide mouth for great access and organization
Two padded nylon webbing handles
Rubber shoulder strap included
Color: Steelhead/Pacific
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
1.9lb/55L (Pocket: .2L)
3,355 cu. in.
22 x 14 x 11

Fishpond Westwater Backpack - $159.95

Perfect for hiking to your favorite spot, or just storing your spare gear in a place where you know it will be safe.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Modular design allows for the Westwater chest pack, or other fishpond chestpack to mount to the front (chestpack not included)
D-ring net attachment
Exterior accessory pocket for quick access items
Interior clear zippered organization pocket
Side fishpond rod tube straps
Mesh back and shoulder straps for increased breathability and comfort
Waist and sternum strap for support

Fishpond Westwater Larged Zippered Duffel - $199.95

This incredibly lightweight design sets the new standard for travel luggage. Whether getting rained on while on the tarmac, or getting drenched on the skiff, this bag won’t let you down.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Rugged ball bearing wheels for easy travel
Three padded nylon webbing handles
Four webbing lash down points
Exterior accessory pouch
Large zippered 29” interior accessory pocket
Large see-through zippered accessory pocket
2’ wide compression straps
Color: Pacific/Steelhead
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
8.55lb/ 6,375 cu. in.
30.5 x 14.25 x 15

Fishpond Westwater Boat Bag - $219.95

Soon to be the favorite bag of all serious guides, the bag features a molded top design that makes opening and closing the bag a breeze, especially when every second counts.

Features

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Signature Fishpond molded top and bottom for quick access
Fully adjustable strap for shoulder or top carry
Three clear interior zippered pouches
Adjustable Velcro® divider system
Four heavy duty boat lash tie down points
Dual hemostat/knife/tippet accessory attachments
Color: Steelhead/Pacific
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
3.7lb/1,405 cu. in.
17.5 x 10 x 12.5

Fishpond Westwater Rolling Carry-On - $279.95

Whether in a crowded airport, or off the beaten path, the Westwater carry-on is the perfect piece to get your gear there safely.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Rollerblade wheels for smooth travel
Integrated backpack straps for ease of transport
Telescoping luggage handle
Two interior zippered pockets for smaller accessories
Padded Jacquard webbing carry handles
Color : Pacific/Steelhead
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
5.75 lb/3,235 cu. in.
21”x 12.75”x 11.25

Fishpond Westwater Large Rolling Duffel - $389.95

This incredibly lightweight design sets the new standard for travel luggage. Whether getting rained on while on the tarmac, or getting drenched on the skiff, this bag won’t let you down.

Features:

TPU welded fabric construction
YKK #10 water resistant zippers with oversize rubber pulls
Rugged ball bearing wheels for easy travel
Three padded nylon webbing handles
Four webbing lash down points
Exterior accessory pouch
Large zippered 29” interior accessory pocket
Large see-through zippered accessory pocket
2’ wide compression straps
Color: Pacific/Steelhead
Heavy duty 1680d TPU Fabric
8.55lb/ 6,375 cu. in.
30.5 x 14.25 x 15

If you are in the market for a durable, functional and highly weather resistant pack or gear bag, you owe it to yourself to take a look at the Fishpond Westwater Series!!!!

New Sage - Redington - RIO Products for 2013

Steve Parrott — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 03:13:00 GMT

It is the season for manufactuers to begin shipping their new products and we have had a steady stream of new and exciting stuff arriving daily!!!

Sage, RIO and Redington all have new or improved offerings for the 2013 line-up and all are vast improvements on the products they replaced or upgraded. With the continued development of stronger and lighter materials, rods, reels and fly lines just keep getting better.

Pretty much all of the items listed below are IN STOCK now ready for you to test drive!!!!!

Sage Approach:

The Approach series includes nine individual rods in the lineup and five options sold as outfits. These rods have excellent line feel and control for a medium-fast action rod thanks to high modulus graphite. The oyster shell shaft color goes nicely with the black primary thread wraps and silver trim wraps. The saltwater rods have an all aluminum reel seat with full-wells grip and cork fighting butt. The freshwater rods have a reverse half-wells grip. The individual fly rods come in a silver gray rod tube with a divided liner for a truly affordable price of $295 for the rod and $475 for the outfit. The Approach Outfit comes with an 1800 reel, RIO Gold fly line and a CORDURA rod case. Beginner casters can easily grow with this rod without ever outgrowing it.

Sage Response:

The Response series builds on proven tapers using premium materials that deliver smooth casting, fast-action fly rods. The chestnut shaft color has brown primary thread wraps with black and gold tip wraps creating a beautiful color combination. A Rosewood insert and aluminum reel seat with reverse half-wells grip grace the freshwater weights while an aluminum reel seat with full-wells grip and cork fighting butt are offered for the saltwater weights. Ceramic stripper guides, hard chrome snake guides and tip-top ensure that line shoots through smoothly and does not get bound on the tip. Available in 18 models ranging from 3 through 12-weights, each rod comes in 4-piece configurations in a Brown CORDURA® rod tube for a retail price of $395.

Sage Circa:

The CIRCA collection reinvents the slow action rod category with a deliberately more relaxed casting tempo combined with a fast recovery, pinpoint accuracy and extraordinary overall performance. The CIRCA is the ultimate dry fly rod that will enable anglers to maximize the dry fly fishing experience with all of the performance expected from a Sage rod.

Using Konnetic technology, the CIRCA collection packs more carbon fiber into a smaller diameter resulting in a radically narrow taper through the length of the rod. This technology creates a consistently slow yet responsive action from butt to tip. Casts are methodically smooth and graceful yet pleasantly crisp and purposeful. Enhanced sensitivity gives anglers precision and control needed for delicate presentations making ‘match-the-hatch’ fisheries ideal for these fly rods.

With six different four-piece models in the collection from 2-weight through 5 weight, the CIRCA fly rods feature a Green Tea shaft color with Olive and Slate color trim wraps. The Vera wood insert with black aluminum reel seat and winding check pattern create an aesthetically pleasing combination. A custom Sage snub nose half-wells grip completes the rod that comes in a black rod bag with iridescent Black Hills Gold silkscreen in a 1 5/8” Desert Gold rod tube with a black cap.

The CIRCA rod collection retail price will range from $745 to $775.

Sage CIRCA - Fly Fishing with Advanced, Slow-Action Performance. from Sol Duc Buck on Vimeo.

Sage 8000 Pro Series Fly Reel:

The 8000 PRO series gives anglers a new dimension in fish stopping power via an integrated secondary drag control system. Based on Sage’s proven Sealed Carbon System (SCS), the 8000 PRO features a two-stage drag control. The primary drag knob adjusts in one revolution with 1-20 numbered settings, while the secondary drag knob fine-tunes drag resistance by 15 percent with each sequential adjustment as well as prevents over-spooling when pulling line to cast. With settings A through E, there are a total of 195 individual drag combinations with a maximum setting that has 40 percent more drag than the 6000 series. Featuring a quick change spool mechanism, a broad concave palming rim and a grooved frame for securing line when not casting, this reel will be sold at fly fishing specialty stores in September.

Sage 4600 Series Fly Reel:

Sage’s new 4600 series reels take lightweight performance to a new level. These reels feature a notably larger diameter spool and arbor for faster line retrieval and increased strength. The 4600 reels have a powerful 3:1 drag ratio that offers plenty of performance but in a smaller, lighter SCS drag package. The inner arbor is concave to hold greater line and backing capacity, and the broad palming rim and grooved frame for securing the line. Four sizes accommodate line weights ranging from 4-9 weights in Stealth and Storm colors. MSRP: $375-$450.

Redington Link Fly Rod:

The Link collection of fly rods is the ultimate in all-around performance creating tight loops and accurate casts thanks to its fast-action and lightweight power. These rods feature a new cosmetic package with glacial blue trim on both the rod and the custom carbon fiber rod tube with anodized end caps. By combining the Link rod with the new Redington Rise reel in glacial blue, this becomes the ultimate fly fishing package. Available in 15 models ranging from 3-10 weights, the Link rods are ideal for any fly fishing scenario. The Link collection of fly rods retail for $349.95 for the 3-6 weight rods and $379.95 for the rods from 6-10 weight with the fighting butt.

Redington Prospector Spey and Switch Two Handed Fly Rods:

The Prospector collection is an entire series dedicated to the two-handed caster with five switch and three spey models. With a medium-fast action, the rods have enough power to cast the heaviest tips and flies necessary to get into the zone for salmon and steelhead. Trout anglers will be surprised at the lightness of the switch models and their ability to cast streamers with two hands or heavy nymph rigs single-handed. Many companies offer larger weight switch rods, but Redington is especially excited to offer a 4 weight in this series. Truly, this 4-weight is the most versatile on the market. This rod model is easy to cast one-handed but also casts two-handed effortlessly when distance is necessary. This rod makes it possible to have the best of both worlds by being able to cast both one and two handed. These rods have a black blank with gold highlights with a satin black reel seat. They come in a durable black cordura rod tube in a quality black suede rod sock. Each rod, from the 4-weight through the 8-weight, includes a suggested line grain weight to help anglers match the perfect line for each rod. The Prospector rods retail for $399.95.

Redington Tempt Fly Rods:

New for 2013, the Redington Tempt fly rods are designed especially for the trout angler. Based on the popular Classic Trout design, the Tempt is redesigned with improvements to the overall look and feel of an already fantastic, tried-and-true design. The moderate action provides the delicacy needed to drop the smallest flies on crystal-clear water without spooking fish, while still providing enough backbone for big river and boat fishing casts. The lightweight design and forgiving action make it a perfect fatigue-free all-day rod for advanced and beginner anglers alike. Backed by the Redington Lifetime Warranty.

Redington Topo Outfit:

The Topo Outfit is a grab-and-go outfit for anyone looking to get started fly fishing. The most daunting task for a beginner is determining what they need to get started. Redington makes it easy. The outfit comes with everything needed to get on the water and start fly fishing including a 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod, a Crosswater reel spooled with RIO’s Mainstream WF5F fly line with front loop, a 9-foot, 5x tapered leader, an extra spool of tippet, nippers, and a fly box with six high floating, durable dry flies. The 4-piece fly rod is made with high performance graphite and has a carbon fiber reel seat to be lighter weight, which makes it ideal for backpacking. This outfit also comes with a how-to guide for beginner anglers with casting instructions, details on how to read a stream, how to tie knots and more. All this equipment comes in a durable rod and reel case with an adjustable shoulder strap making this an easy addition for a weekend camping or backpacking trip. The Topo Outfit retails for $199.95.

RIO Max Cast - Max Float Technology:

RIO Products, manufacturer of fly lines, leaders and tippet material, is excited to announce the addition of two new sophisticated and radically advanced proprietary technologies. These technologies, called MaxFloat and MaxCast, are being added to three of RIO’s highly respected and best-selling trout lines, the RIO Gold, RIO Grand, Trout LT WF and Trout LT DT lines, creating lines that anglers will now love even more.

RIO’s new, innovative MaxCast line coating redefines floating line performance. Made with a groundbreaking proprietary formula, MaxCast lines float higher, shoot farther, last longer and stay cleaner. The secret is in the coating’s advanced hydrophobic chemistry that actively pushes water away from the line, resulting in radically improved floatation and reduced dirt adhesion. It also allows the line to slip more easily from the surface film for longer, quieter pickups. At the same time, MaxCast’s coating formulation contains a sophisticated blend of permanent slickening agents that continuously migrate to the line’s exterior for enhanced shooting and durability.

The addition of RIO’s new MaxFloat Tip technology allows the tips of these lines to float more than twice as high as regular line tips without an increase in diameter. The tip of a traditional floating line tends to sink because its narrow, tapered end has a reduced coating that does not provide enough buoyancy to stay above water. RIO’s MaxFloat Tip solves this age-old problem by placing maximum floatation right where anglers need it for reduced drag, longer drifts and quieter pickups.

Both MaxCast and MaxFloat technologies combine to greatly improve the three RIO lines that will incorporate them this year. The RIO Gold, RIO Grand, Trout LT WF and Trout LT DT lines retail for $74.95.

RIO Products MAXCast Fly Line Technology from RIO Products on Vimeo.

Pat Dorsey's Hot Fly - August 2012 - Mercury Midge

Pat Dorsey — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 03:23:00 GMT

When the fishing gets tough as the trout have been pounded each and every day by anglers, the old saying K.I.S.S (Keep It Simple Stupid) really comes to mind and that is exactly what the Dorsey's Mercury Midge does.

This fly flat out produces fish when no other will in areas like Cheesman Canyon, Deckers and the Dream Stream. One of Pat Dorsey's trade secrets, this becomes a go-to fly when the fish decide they are not going to eat. I guarantee you that there are at least 3 to 4 dozen size 20 and 22's in my fly box if I am heading into the Canyon this time of year. It is game changer yet it is incredibly simple!!

Recipie:

Hook - Tiemco 2488 - #18 - #22

Bead - Mercury Glass Bead - x-small

Thread - Danville Fly Master 6/0 - Cream

Rib - UTC Ultra Wire - Small - Copper

If you are running into problematic fish on your outings into heavily fished waters, you owe it to yourself to give the Mercury Midge a shot. You will not be dissapointed!!!

HUGE Sage - RIO - Redington SALE!!!!

Steve Parrott — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 03:01:00 GMT

It is that time of year again when new products are introduced and some of our old favorites go away!!!

Now is the opportunity to get a great rod, reel, fly line or some comfy fishing clothing at a KILLER deal.

Here is a list of SALE ITEMS:

Sage Vantage Fly Rods

Sage Flight Fly Rods

Sage ZXL Fly Rods

Sage 6000 Series Fly Reels

Sage 4500 Series Reels

Sage 4200 Series Reels - Black ONLY

Sage 1800 Series Reels

Sage 1600 Series Reels

Sage Trucker Hats

Sage Eco Tencel Hats

Sage Ultralight Longbill Hats

Sage Waterproof Longbill Hats

Redington CPX Fly Rods

Redington Classic Trout Fly Rods

Redington Rise Fly Reels

Redington Copper River Fishing Pants

Redington Gasparilla Fishing Shirts - Cypress color ONLY

Redington Rex Technical Tee's

Redington Sonic Pro Wading Jacket - Dark Earth color ONLY

Redington Stratus III Wading Jackets - Green Drake color ONLY

RIO Gold Fly Lines

RIO Grand Fly Lines

RIO Trout LT Fly Lines - Weight Forward

RIO Trout LT Fly Lines - Double Taper

Fly Fishing Lakes : No Crowds and Tons of "Big" Fish!!!!

Steve Parrott — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 04:17:00 GMT

Most anglers overlook or drive right by the numerous lakes we have here in Colorado headed to a popular river or an off the grid stream in the high country. What these anglers are passing up is the opportunity to catch a bunch of fish with tons of room to do so.

I had the opportunity to fish a full day on July 1st and I could not decide what to do?? Hit the river with just about everyone else or head to Spinney Reservoir with my good friend, Kevin Hunt. I love lakes as they can be challenging and rewarding at the same time but can also be a real pain in the rear too. With the hot and dry weather conditions we are having in Colorado, my guess was the lakes would be slow and we might manage a couple of fish with little or no size to them where I could go to the river, fight the crowds and work on a new Euro leader I have been tinkering with as well as test a few new jig patterns.

I decided to hit the lake and to my surprise, 10 minutes after launching the drift boat, Kevin was already tied into an 18" Rainbow that jumped at least 10 times. Kevin landed that fish, and placed another cast out and within 30 seconds, hooked and broke off what would have been the biggest fish of the day. We speculated it to be in the 24" range but as with all fish that get away, it only grew in size as the day went on.

I began the day fishing RIO's new Hover line that sinks just below the surface and had a team of Chironomids on a 20' leader, slowly crawling them below the surface. I had one take and then switched up to the RIO Aqualux Intermidiate line and picked up two fish about 4 feet down. All the while, Kevin continued to stroke fish after fish with a right angle nymph rig with a large midge on the bottom and a soft hackle calibaetis above.

After casting and figure of eighting may #$$ off, I decided to switch over to the right angle rig and proceeded to stroke fish. This type of fishing may not be for all anglers as you make a cast and then sit there and wait for the indicator to basically "flush" like a toilet. I actually found it relaxing and a welcome deviation from my normal, intense approach to Euro Nymphing with extremely long leaders!!!!!

Below is some footage we shot right before the winds came and the fishing shut down.

Fishing lakes may not be for all but if you are looking for a different approach to catching fish and love to enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view of beautiful South Park, Colorado, get out the drift boat, float tube or fishing kayak and head to Spinney Mountain Reservoir!!! You will not be dissapointed.

SAGE Introduces CIRCA Fly Rod for 2013 - Dry Fly Anglers Rejoice!!!

Steve Parrott — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 03:54:00 GMT

If you’re a devotee of the casting nuances of the slow action fly rod, a student of its historic ties to our sport, or just like the thrill of moving in close to actively feeding fish, consider Sage's new CIRCA rod, a reward for your years of dedication.

BE WARNED: the CIRCA does not mimic the type of slow action that has so far defined the category – overly soft, willowy and flat. Instead, thanks to Sage's Konnetic technology’s ability to compact and align more carbon fibers into a smaller diameter blank, Sage was able to design a radically narrow taper throughout the length of the rod, resulting in consistently slow, yet responsive action from butt to tip. Sage's new CIRCA rod is a technologically advanced slow-action fly rod that honors your slower, more deliberate casting style, yet is every bit a Sage.

“My goal for this rod was to apply the performance advantages of modern materials on a very sleek, slender shaft that would load down in the hand for a fishing tempo like glass, or bamboo while providing the crucial need for accuracy.” Notes Sage Chief Fly Rod Designer, Jerry Siem. “The CIRCA is a rod that, once it’s in your hands, enables you to improve as an angler by identifying where, why and how you can put a fly on the water. The CIRCA is definitely going to bring new life into the sport of trout fishing.”

Here is a video featuring Jerry which elaborates the CIRCA story. Beautifully shot in Central Washington, sit back and enjoy the new CIRCA video.

Sage CIRCA - Fly Fishing with Advanced, Slow-Action Performance. from Sol Duc Buck on Vimeo.

The CIRCA rod collection will be available through Sage specialty dealers in August and September in the following models: 279-4, 379-4, 389-4, 479-4, 489-4, and 589-4.

Features of the NEW Sage Circa Fly Rod:

• Low-Profile Ferrules. The inherent strength of Konnetic technology allows us to reduce the weight of our all-graphite ferrule connections by nearly 70%. Improved aerodynamics plus lighter weight contribute to lighter blanks.

• Green Tea Color. The CIRCA’s elegant and inviting green finish is accented by Olive primary thread wraps with Slate colored trim wraps.

• Vera wood insert with black aluminum reel seat and winding check pattern create a perfect combination.

• Custom Cork Handle. Snub-nose, half-Wells grip. The cork is custom formed to match the exact taper of the CIRCA rod, providing a snug fit that helps communicate casting feedback for utmost accuracy.

• Round Tip Eye. This Sage-designed tip-top never pinches or binds the line, allowing the caster to make mends and cast in any direction with full control.

• Slim Profile Rod Tube. Only 1 5/8” in Desert Gold color, plus a unique rod bag: like a chameleon, its gold silk-screened colors flash between gold and green in the light.

Retail price for the CIRCA will range from $745 to $775 depending on model. Sounds expensinve for a slower action rod but wait until you cast one!!!!!! They are amazing

Pat Dorsey's Hot Fly - June/July 2012 - Barr's Emerger Flashback PMD

Pat Dorsey — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 03:22:00 GMT

If there is one fly to have in your arsenal when fishing in Colorado during the months of June and July, the Barr's Emerger Flashback PMD is it!!!!

June and July are the hot and heavy PMD months and when the fish get selective, it is time to get down and dirty with them and this fly does just that. Perfect choice for tailwaters, freestones and even some of our smaller feeder streams and creeks.

The size 16 is perfect until the hatch begins to peter our and then switch it up to a size 18 and keep the good times rolling.

Designed by John Barr who is one of the most innovative fly tyers in the country with pattern like the Copper John, Graphic Caddis, Meat Whistle, Slump Buster, Pure Midge Larva, Tungstone, Vis-A-Dun, Tungteaser and many more. For more info on John Barr's flies, check out his book, "Barr Flies" with step-by-step tying instructions for each!

Barr's Emerger Flashback PMD Tying Recipie:

Hook: TMC 2487 - 16-18

Thread: 8/0 Uni - Light Cahill

Tail: Brown Hackle Fibers

Abdomen: Superfine - Olive Brown Dubbing

Flashback: Medium Opal Mirage Flash

Thorax: Superfine - Light Cahil

Legs: Cream or Light Yellow hackle fibers

About the Barr's Emerger Series from John Barr (courtesy of High Country Angler)

The Barr’s Emerger is a pattern representing the emerging stage of a mayfly nymph. During a mayfly hatch the mature nymphs swim from the bottom to the surface of a river, and the nymphal exoskeleton (shuck) starts splitting open from the front, and the adult mayfly dun starts wriggling free. At this point the insect is very vulnerable to predation by the trout. Some fish in a run may feed exclusively on the partially emerged stage. An emerger is an essential pattern to carry when you encounter a mayfly hatch. The original version was created in 1975 after fishing a PMD hatch on Nelson’s Spring Creek in beautiful Paradise Valley outside of Livingston, Montana.

There were fish rising everywhere, but none were taking the duns. They were taking little yellow specks. At the time I had never heard of emergers, and only carried dun imitations. I finally tied on a nymph and caught a male rainbow with a big mouth that I could easily look down inside of. On the tongue rakers at the base of the tongue were dozens of partially emerged PMD, just a small part of their body protruding from the shuck. In my motel room that night, the Barr’s Emerger was created, and the basic pattern has not changed to this day. The first patterns were on a dry fly hook and fished in the film. I then added a wet version to be fished as a subsurface pattern. In subsequent years I added a bead and flashback version. I tied it in a PMD and a Baetis version. I call any blue winged olive a Baetis, even though technically it may be a different genus; Baetis is easier to say than BWO. Baetis and PMDs are the two mayfly hatches I most frequently encounter. You can change the emerging portion of the fly to imitate many other emerging mayflies. I don’t fish the pattern just during hatches, either.

If a mayfly has been hatching, the emerger is a familiar food source, and will be readily accepted by the trout. I will fish the Baetis version year round as a nymph and the PMD version in the summer. Even though there are no Baetis hatches in the winter, it can be a very effective winter pattern in our tailwaters. You can drop either the wet or floating version off the bend of a dun imitation during a hatch, use it as one of the flies in a nymph fishing set up, or use it as your dropper when fishing the hopper-copper-dropper combo. One of the fly’s best attributes, be- sides catching fish, is that trout don’t get conditioned to it. It just keeps fooling them year after year. On more than one occasion I have caught the same trout more than once during the same hatch.

Czech Nymphing Master Class DVD Reviews

Pat Dorsey — Wed, 02 May 2012 16:48:00 GMT

Steve Parrott's new Czech Nymphing Master Class : On-Stream Tactics for Success DVD, available now is receiving rave reviews for it's simplicity as well as clear and concise explanations of how to effectively fish the Czech, French and Spanish Nymphing Methods in real-world fishing situations.

Here are the reviews:

"This is Steve’s second DVD on the subject of European fishing methods and without a doubt it covers all aspects of these highly effective techniques. I have been fishing and teaching these methods for many years and was pleasantly surprised on how much new information I took away from this video. The Czech, Spanish, and French methods all have their place on the stream and the differences are thoroughly explained and demonstrated. Steve explains all the subtleties involved when it comes to the presentation of the two fly rig in relation to different current speeds and holding lies. Several fish are caught in some unlikely places which only reinforce the message that these techniques allow the angler to be successful in areas they might have overlooked in the past. Whether you have never fished these methods or you are a seasoned angler, Czech Nymphing Masterclass is a must have for your video library." - Steve Korbay - Fly Tying Specialties

"I received this DVD last week and just finished watching it. Steve did a great job with it! The explanations are clear, and the demonstrations of techniques really gave me a feel for these methods. I'm looking forward to trying it out on-stream this year." - B. Ellis

"Congratulations Steve, what an amazing teaching tool to help clear up stream approach confusion using European techniques. Your DVD was very well thought out but, not too wordy, overwhelming a person’s senses trying to incorporate these techniques. I really liked the simplistic approach to each streamside situation. You covered each situation to a finite level. It was easy to apply the DVD instruction right to the stream side. Wow, this has really helped my European Techniques become more efficient. Thank you for building such a great learning tool. This DVD would be perfect for the beginner first starting out or the seasoned angler looking to fine tune their skills. Whether you are using European techniques or general fly fishing, this DVD will help you to read, approach and cover water very efficiently. Congratulations Again!"- R. Kless

Forget the expensive guide services. Forget the complicated books. If you want to learn how to nymph productively and catch fish in any type of water, go fishing with Steve. Hands down, the best one-on-one you could ask for. Steve is a great teacher. If you're a beginner, learn these techniques now and you will catch fish. If you're more seasoned, learn these techniques and you will catch more fish! - C. Holoday

Learn to Fly Fish for FREE with the Blue Quill Angler

Steve Parrott — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 03:35:00 GMT

Have you wanted to learn how to fly fish or at least give it a try to see if you would like it but did not want to commit a ton of money just to find out that it was boring or way too complicated? The Blue Quill Angler FREE Saturday Introduction to Fly Fishing Class is your answer.

Since the Blue Quill opened its doors in 1988 as a specialty fly fishing shop, we built into the mission statement to introduce as many people as possible to this incredible sport absolutely FREE. There are no hidden fees or strings attached to this deal. All you have to do is show up on Saturday morning at the shop and things will get started shortly thereafter.

Over the last 24 years, we have had several thousand people participate in the FREE class as a complete introduction to the sport or as a refresher to get ready for the upcoming fishing season. The FREE class covers the basics necessary to confidently send you to the river, some heading out right after class and landing their first trout on a fly rod.

The FREE class covers the following:

How to rig your rod, including leader, tippet, and knots.
How to select the right fly for each season
The basics of fly casting
How to hook, play, and release a trout.

When class is over, you can rent a rod and reel, a pair of waders and boot if you do not own all the gear, get legal with a Colorado One Day Fishing License for $9.00 and head over to Clear Creek or down to Bear Creek and apply those newly learned skills in a real world situation.

About the instructor:

Gary Okizaki, Blue Quill Angler Guide and Master Instructor has taught this class almost every Saturday morning for the past 10 years. He is an exceptional teacher and can have you casting a fly in less than an hour. His ability so take so many complicated topics and simplify them into a language that is super easy to understand is the key to your success.

Some of our long standing customer and even a couple of our guides attended this FREE class to get their feet wet. WARNING: Do not come unless you want to get hooked into this amazing sport!!!!!

Rods for the casting portion of the class are provided by Sage, but if you own a fly rod, it is best to learn on your own equipment as this is what you will be fishing with when you go to the river.

The class starts at 10:00 am and usually gets over by 1:00 pm. Registration is not required and there is no limit to number of participants. Grab a friend or significant other and get started fly fishing today!!!

For more information on the Blue Quill Angler FREE Introduction to Fly Fishing Class, do not hesitate to give us a call at 800-435-5353 or shoot us an email to flyfish@bluequillangler.com

Czech Nymphing Master Class DVD - NOW SHIPPING!!!!

Steve Parrott — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 03:12:00 GMT

Finally, we have in stock Steve Parrott's long awaited second DVD in his educational European Nymphing series, Czech Nymphing Master Class : On-Stream Tactics for Success.

Learn to Fish the European Methods like a Pro!

Czech Nymphing Master Class : On-Stream Tactics for Success gives you an on-stream river clinic on how to effectively use the Czech, French and Spanish Nymphing Methods. Steve Parrott shows you how to read constantly changing river conditions and how to match the water with the method. In this on-stream class, Steve shares the tricks of the trade that will help even the most seasoned anglers find new opportunities in overlooked water.

Czech Nymphing Master Class : On-Stream Tactics for Success covers:

Reading and managing the water – how the currents are flowing and how to adjust fishing technique to take full advantage of conditions.
Drift/Leading strategies – how to adjust rod tip path and speed to ensure most effective drift
Casting strategies – Changing rod planes and casting angles to get your flies into those impossible places
Selecting flies – how to choose the right fly based on method and water conditions.
Putting it all together – how to position your body to cover a run and how to set up your fly box for efficiency.

This Master Class is the perfect companion to “Czech Nymphing 101 & Related European Methods” to build your on-water skills and truly hone your European Nymphing Techniques.

Colorado Fly Fishing Opportunities in the Spring - Big Fish-No Crowds

Steve Parrott — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 03:31:00 GMT

Spring in Colorado is one of the best times to fish as certain rivers are thawing out and others are increasing just enough in temperatures to get the aquatic life moving which gets the fish into a more active feeding mode.

One of the most overlooked fisheries in Colorado during the Spring months are our abundant lakes. Most are completely ice free by the first of April and the fish are hungry. Typically, most anglers are heading to the rivers after a long winter and do not give lakes a second thought which is great as the crowds are low and the fishing can be outstanding!!!.

Blue Quill Angler fly fishing guide, Joe Shafer knows all too well the benefits of hitting the lakes right after ice off which have really paid off with some incredible fishing as of late. Joe fished opening day at Spinney Reservoir in South Park on Monday, April 3. Air temperatures were in the 40's with water temps hovering around 37. You might say that this is still winter fishing but the slightest changes of water temps in the lake really get the fish into feeding mode.

According to Joe, “It didn't matter how cold it was, the fishing was simply unreal! The average fish was between 18-20 inches with a bunch of fish that where 20-24 and a few that didn't make it to the net that where bigger. Joe landed rainbows, cuttbows, a 23 inch brown, and a 19 inch pike that hit a size 18 midge. Tell me he was not hungry!!!

Joe's best producing patterns were small eggs, #10 and 12 Woolley Buggers, #14 and 16 Copper Johns, #14 and 16 Scuds, #14 San Juan Worms in brown and pink, Dark Chironomid patterns and Halfback Nymphs.

Joe targeted the south and east side of the resservoir which get the most warming degrees of the day fishing the flies static under an indictor with a slight twitch every now and then to give them some movement. Trout in lakes this time of year in Colorado are cruising but not readily willing to chase very far so a static nymph rig is the best choice. Most of the fish Joe hooked and landed were about 20 feet from shore, cruising the transitional zone where the shallow, warmer water meets up with the cooler, deeper water.

Since the ski season was pretty much a bust here in Colorado, anglers looking for a little solitude and great fishing shoud take a second look at the lakes. In Joe’s opinion, “fly fishermen are missing out if they don't try fishing a reservoir in the spring”. It’s not to late as many of the reservoirs are just opening up. If you would like more information on fishing lakes in Colorado or would like to book a trip with Joe, give us a call at 800-435-5353.

Pat Dorsey's Hot Fly - March 2012 : Tungsten Flashback Black Beauty

Steve Parrott — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 21:50:00 GMT

The Tungsten Flashback Black Beauty is a great addition to your spring fly selection. For the next several weeks, anglers can expect to see dense midge hatches in most watersheds. Observant anglers will notice two different sizes of midges hovering above the water’s surface. The larger variety, “the spring midge” is a size 18 and routinely mistaken for a blue-winged olive because of its size. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that it is in fact big midge!

You’ll also encounter lots of smaller midges that range in size from a 20-26. In a variety of sizes, the Tungsten Flashback Black Beauty is an excellent midge imitation for trout keying heavily on drifting pupa in transitional zones such as mid channel shelves and gar bars.

The Tungsten Flashback Black Beauty may be dead drifted with a conventional two or three fly tandem nymphing rig or fished as a “dropper” off a dry fly. The latter approach is deadly in skinny water where trout are suspended just below the water’s surface feeding voraciously on pupae and you do not want to risk spooking them with a conventional nymphing rig.

Photo Caption: John Higgs caught this beautiful 25 inch rainbow on the South Platte River with a Tungsten Flashback Black Beauty.

New Sage Apparel That Will Have You Fishing in Style and Comfort

Steve Parrott — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:15:00 GMT

Sage makes some of the best fly rods in the World but they also revamped their apparel line-up for 2012 which is some of the most impressive products we have seen to date. Functional and stylish pieces that will make your day on or off the water more enjoyable.

Here is the line-up at a glance:

Sage Quest Softshell Jacket:

Even a hard day on the water can not spoil the body hugging comfort of our Quest Softshell Jacket. A three-season breathable jacket ideal for layering, the nylon/spandex fabric blend offers four-way stretch for added comfort. Its light weight makes it wear like a shirt, yet its double weave with DWR finish and adjustable cuff with low-profile closure offers stout wind and weather protection. You will get them tomorrow.

Features:

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% spandex
High performance double weave with DWR finish
Four-way stretch fabric for full movement and comfort
High water and wind resistance
Laser cut and welded zippers
Tool port at chest
Adjustable cuff with low-profile closure
Adjustable waist at hem

Pre-shaped sleeves for comfort

Sage Quest Insulated Softshell Hoody:

Fly fishing will never be confused with an aerobics class, and against the cool morning chill mere casting or rowing may not be enough to keep your core warm. Like a warm vest built right in, our Quest Softshell Insulated Hoody features Primaloft® 120 gram insulation to keep your torso warm, without adding any bulk at your shoulders or arms to impede casting. An ideal mid-layer any time of year, the nylon/spandex double weave outer layer offers excellent wind resistance, plus our DWR finish to repel moisture. Your core never had it so good.

Features:

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% spandex
Double weave with DWR finish for high water and wind resistance
Four-way stretch fabric for full movement and comfort
Primaloft 120gm insulation in main body
Laser cut and welded zippers
Tool port at chest
Adjustable cuff with low-profile closure
Adjustable waist at hem
Pre-shaped sleeves for comfort
Fully adjustable hood

Sage Seychelles Convertible Pant

Fishing travel demands that your on-the-water gear should serve you just as well off the water. Unlike many tissue-weight convertible pants, our UPF 30+, quick-dry 100% nylon Seychelles pants have some substance to them, ideal for under waders or dressed up for social hour. The knees are pre-shaped for extended comfort sitting in a boat, plus a gusseted crotch gives you greater range of leg movement. Quickly zip off the pant legs for wet wading or hiking. So throw another box of flies in your duffel - there is no need to take another pair of pants along.

Features:

Fabric: 100% nylon
Wicking
Quick-dry
UPF 30+
Anti-odor finish
Built-in belt with laser cut and welded technology
YKK zippers
Pocket clip to keep keys secure
Hidden pliers pocket in cargo pocket
Pre-shaped leg with articulated knee

Sage Keys Crew - Long Sleeve

As you are poling around the flats with the sun scalding your back and the glare bouncing off the water, ''exposed'' feels like an understatement. With our naturally venting Keys Crew, protection and comfort are synonymous. Anti-odor with a UPF of 30+ and the fast wicking properties of 100% polyester, the pre-shaped sleeves snuggly fit your arms to reduce wind resistance and casting fatigue. The cuffs extend over the top of your hand for increased sun protection. Take that, sun!!

Features:

100% polyester
Wicking
Quick-dry
UPF 30+
Anti-odor finish
Heat transfer labels (scratch-free)
On seam thumb hole for added sun protection
Raised collar adds extra sun protection for back of neck

Sage Opala Guide Shirt:

The only thing better than a great day of fishing is looking good doing it. Your cast has style, so why shouldnt your shirt? Our Opala Guideshirt is 100% nylon so it wicks and breathes extremely well, with no need for outdated venting. With a soft, cottony look and feel, you can go straight from the boat to the lodge without missing a beat. Who knows, this could even become your favorite ''around town'' shirt. You are going home, right?

Features:

100% nylon
Quick-dry, excellent wicking properties
UPF 30+
Anti-odor finish
Large chest pockets
Roll-up sleeves
YKK zippered security pocket (left chest)

Sage Kanektok Wool Pro Sweater:

Wool and fishing have a storied history, and we’ve begun a new chapter. Our Kanektok Wool Pro Half-Zip features Polartec ® Power Dry® fabric, combining wools durable insulating qualities with polyester to create a mid-layer garment you will not want to take off. As comfortable as it is attractive, you will be hoping for cooler days on the water just for the excuse to wear it. Machine washable for easy care, its soft nap feels great next to the skin on days a base layer isn’t needed. We said you would be looking for every excuse possible!

Features:

Fabric: Polartec ® Power Dry ®
36.6% polyester
33.4% recycled polyester
30% wool
Fast wicking and quick drying performance
Articulated sleeves for active comfort
Perfect layering piece with next to skin comfort and high warmth-to-weight ratio
Machine washable
YKK zippers

Sage created a stellar line-up that will keep you going strong no matter the weather. Check them out today!!!

A Cold Day of Fishing on the Dream Stream is Better than Work!!!

Steve Parrott — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 05:11:00 GMT

Most anglers hang up the waders and rods for skis in the Winter months but for the die hards that are willing to brave the snow, wind and frigid temperatures, the reward is usually better than the sacrifice.

One of our senior guides, Joe Shafer spent Monday and Tuesday of this week on the "Dream Stream" section of the South Platte River in Colorado. The weather was fair with warming temperatures but brutal wind which has been exceptionally bad this year with gusts up to 70mph.

Joe started fishing at the lower bridge and then above the bridge to the first rock garden. The river fished pretty well but not a ton of spawing fish in these sections as of yet but they will move in there soon.

Joe landed a few nice 20+ inch fish with a good numbers of stocked fish in the 10-16 inch range. Patterns that worked well were eggs, 18 to 20 Copper John's, 20-22 Blue Wing Olive Nymphs and 20-22 midges.

Back on Tuesday to battle the wind again and fished the lower section from the inlet into Elevenmile Reservoir upstream. Lots of Cutthroat's in the lower section ready and willing to eat. There were a few big rainbows moving around feeding like crazy and the same flies worked as the first day.

The Inlet to Elevenmile Reservoir is open a couple hundred yards from shore and the water temps where cold, ranging from 35-38 degrees. There were lots of other brave souls on the river and when we could get away from the crowds we saw a lot more fish moving around and willing to eat.

Winter fishing is for the bravest at heart, especially on the "Dream Stream" section of the South Platte River, but the rewards for toughing it out are usually pretty great!!

New Czech Nymphs from Steve Parrott IN STOCK!!!

Pat Dorsey — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 04:31:00 GMT

Finally!!!! After a really long wait (18 months) we have Steve Parrott's new Czech Nymphs in stock!!

We all have our "confidence" flies and according to Steve, these are three patterns he will not leave home without!!! Designed by Steve and tied by Umpqua Feather Merchants on the new Umpqua Competition C300BL Grub/Czech hook, these quality flies will surely find a place in your European Nymphing aresenal as well!!

Steve Parrott's Electric Caddis Czech Nymph:

Featured in Steve's First DVD, Czech Nymphing 101 & Reltated European Methods, this fly is a real killer. Steve incorporated an under and over rib on the main body as well as a Magic Shrimp Foil - Pearl Strip - Lt. Green back foil for added flash. The beauty of this fly is when it is wet. The body will darken and the flash under rib will light up giving the fly an almost transparent look that drives fish nuts.

Perfect for the top (dropper) position on the Czech and Spanish rigs as it is weighted just enough to get into the zone but not dredge the bottom.

Electric Caddis Testimonial: Posted by disheartened Rainbow from South Platte River

''I was just hanging out and spotted this really flashy caddis looking pattern drifting down the river in front of me, then it was like a flash of light from Men in Black or something and I forgot all I had learned during my years refusing all those flies and I ate it!!! Needless to say, it was in fact not real and I was taken away momentarily to a rubber coated something and had my picture taken before I was released back to the water. Fellow trout beware, this looks real but IT IS NOT!!!!! (see mug shot below)

Steve Parrott's S&D Grub Czech Nymph - Chartreuse

This is another "confidence" fly that Steve will never leave home without. The weighted under body and slim profile get the chartreuse S&D (Search & Destroy) Grub Czech nymph down quickly and can be used on the point (bottom) position in shallower water and as a top (dropper) fly in the deeper stuff. The super durable body and subtle fluorescent pink "hot spot" drives fish crazy. Ideal for rivers with good caddis populations as well as a searching pattern for your favorite river.

Tied on the new Umpqua Competition C300BL Grub/Czech hook, this quick penetrating, super sticky hook will stay sharp and hold with the best of them.

"When I go to a river for the first time or hit a section of my favorite water, I will always have the S&D Grub on my line. This fly has produced more fish than I can count and I would be lost without it!!!" - Steve Parrott

Steve Parrott's S&D Grub Czech Nymph - Lt. Pink

"There is something about a pink fly that continues to amaze me even on some of the toughest waters we have here in Colorado. This fly just works when the going gets tough, especially in stained or off-colored water." - Steve Parrott

The super slim profile and medium weight of the S&D (Search & Destroy) Grub Czech nymph is perfect for your bottom (point) fly or as the top (dropper) fly on a Czech or Spanish Nymphing set-up. It gets down quickly due to its slim profile but not so fast that it constantly hangs on the bottom. The fluorescent pink "hot spot" gives this fly the right amount of "bling" to entice the most discerning fish.

Tied on the new Umpqua C300BL Grub/Czech hook, it penetrates quickly while setting the hook and stays put during the fight!!!

There is a reason these three patterns are Steve's "confidence" patterns and after fishing these a day on the river, we are sure you will feel the same way!!!

Tiemco Joins the Jig Hook Market with the NEW 403BLJ - IN STOCK!!

Steve Parrott — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 04:02:00 GMT

Tiemco Fly Hooks out of Japan has jumped on board the European Nymphing train with the introduction of the Tiemco 403BLJ Jig Hook. Distributed by Umpqua Feather Merchants in Louisville, Colorado, this hook should be available to purchase in early March of 2012.

I was lucky enough to get some samples of the Tiemco 403BLJ Jig Hook from Umpqua a couple of weeks ago and have been tying up a storm on them. The first thing I noticed was how stiff they were in the vise. When wrapping materials on other jig style hooks, the hook will flex under pressure but not the Tiemco. I then placed a hook in the vise and tried to break it with my fingers and it was almost impossible. I finally grabbed a pair of Tiemco De-Bard Pliers and was able to break the hook. These babies are STRONG!!!!

They have a 60 degree bend at the eye and will accommodate a slotted or slotted faceted tungsten bead nicely. The hooks come from the factory barbless so there is no need to pinch down the barb and they are sharp!!! The needle point provides great penetrating power and I could not wait to see how they held a fish.

Once out on the water with the Tiemco 403BLJ, fish stayed on the hook and the point stayed incredibly sharp most of the day. Several fish were landed in the 16 to 18 inch range on the #16 403BL throughout the day and there were no issues with the hook bending or breaking.

The Tiemco 403BLJ Jig Hooks are available in sizes 12, 14 and 16 right now with hopefully some larger sizes coming in the future. Look for them soon at you local fly shop or at the Blue Quill Angler.

Make your Flies Pop with Fluorescent Materials!!!

Steve Parrott — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 02:54:00 GMT

We all have our favorite patterns that we use each and every time on the river. Some days they work great and others just mediocre. Why not spice those old patterns up a little by incorporating some fluorescent tying materials to really make them "pop"

The addition of brightly colored fluorecent dubbings as well as fluorescent thread collars or tags can really make a difference when the going gets tough. One particular type of nymphing comes to mind when I think about the use of fluorescent materials in fly patterns, the European Nymphing Techniques. These brightly colored fluorescent section incorporated into the flies are often reffered to as "hot spots" or "trigger points"

When I look at most of the European style patterns in my fly box or in magazine articles, there is almost always some type of hot spot or trigger point somewhere. It could be a small section of fluorescent dubbing separating the thorax from the head on the grub/Czech flies or a hot orange collar behind the bead on the French micro nymphs. There are instances where I will use a fluorescent wire for the ribbing on my flis or add a small section of fluorescent material near the tail, which I have found extremely beneficial in heavily pressured waters.

The most important question you should be asking yourself right now is??? Why do Hot Spot or Trigger Points stack the deck in your favor?

The answer to this is really simple once you comprehend what happens to the different colors of light as the water you are fishing gets deeper and how fluorescent materials react to that light.

Fluorescent types of material reflect light at a longer wavelength than it receives. How does this effect your flies tied with fluorescent materials? Fluorescent materials absorb any light color in the spectrum and will still reflect their representative color. The water column disperses most of the Red, Yellow, Green and Orange light as you gain depth where Blue and Violet colors are still present.

This creates a huge advantage over flies tied without fluorescent materials as they will appear dark brown or black with a brightly colored section glowing like a beacon in those deeper runs. This is an open invitation for fish to check it out and since they cannot grab the fly and inspect it with their hands, they use their mouth!!!

Below is a picture taken under Ultraviolet light showing some flies tied with fluorescent hot spots while others were not.

Flies at the top of this image do not have a ''hot spot'' incorporated into the fly. As you move down the page, there are patterns that have a dubbed hot spot, a thread hot spot either behind the bead or at the tail of the fly and then flies with fluorescent orange beads

You can see that most of the colors of the flies are hard to distinguish but the fluorescent orange and fluorescent chartreuse colors really glow.

Here is a picture of the same page of the fly box taken under natural light.

Pretty amazing the difference the addition of fluorescent materials into your fly patterns makes!

What is the best fluorescent color to use for your hot spot's or trigger points

For deep, dark streams with little or no penetrating light, often found back East or in the Pacific Northwest or water that is off-color due to run-off or a recent rain event, Fluorescent Yellow, Fluorescent Chartreuse and Fluorescent Orange are the best choices. They emit the most light due to their overall brightness on the fly and really cut through that dark or stained water.

For clear, low water, Fluorescent Red is the best choice. Most fish have the ability to process Red colors very well under water where to a human eye it would look dark. The addition of a Fluorescent Red hot spot into your shallow water fly arsenal will provide the right amount of contrast to the fly itself making it more appealing to a fish. Once you get into deeper water where the light is dissolving more, the Fluorescent Red color will begin to dissolve into the body color of the fly. In this situation, the brighter orange, chartreuse and yellow's are a better choice.

How much fluorescent materials you incorporate into your flies is really up to you. I tend to use a bead, collar of thread or a small dubbed section on most of my flies rather than tying the entire fly out of the fluorescent materials which might be too much for some fish. We want to trigger the fish to eat, not scare the spots off of them.

Incorporating the correct color of fluorescent materials for the water depth you are planning to fish into your flies will greatly increase their visibility. By increasing the flies visibility, especially in fast moving runs, pockets, riffles and off-colored water, the chances of a fish seeing them goes way up and hopefully taste testing them as well!!! Look for the ''FL'' or ''Fluorescent'' wording next time you are buying fly tying materials and incorporate them into you flies, you will not be disappointed!!