Tidbits Thursday

Marsh & Bayou Outfitters is moving. Founded by Ben and Chris Tiblier, M&B has been in business in the French Quarter of New Orleans since 2014, a local source for fly fishing products as well as for fly fishing guides. On Tuesday, MBO posted on their Facebook page that they've decided to move from the Big Easy to the Northshore. The new location will be 2800 Florida Street in Mandeville, with an opening sometime in July.

Date set for Lake Athens Fly Fishing Festival.  LAFFF was originally scheduled for the first weekend in April, but postponed due to the COVID19 outbreak. Now organizer Johnny Martinez has set a June 27th date. The event has been condensed into one day, with the Big Bass Challenge (tournament) starting at 7:00am, and awards presentation at 2:00pm. Other activities include casting instruction, casting contest, fly tying demos (including realistic tying by Fred Hannie), and a raffle to benefit Casting For Recovery. For more info, go to www.johnnyonthefly.com.

Online fly fishing and tying continues. Organizations, clubs, and fly shops are continuing to hold Zoom webinars and meetings at this time of social distancing. The Kisatchie and Acadiana clubs are holding a joint "Tying Tuesdays" each week. The clubs have announced continuation of this through June. Once regular in-person meetings resume, the clubs will continue to hold an online "Tying Tuesday" at least once, perhaps twice, a month.

Meanwhile, FFI has weekly Zoom webinars. Fly Fishers International has been holding various meetings each week. For example, this past week the FFI Tying Group did an online tying session, the Learning Center did a casting program with Molly Semelik, Jeff Currier continued his global fly fishing presentations with a program on "Big Fish of Canada", and the Conservation Committee continued their series of "Conservatin Conversation" with steelhead and cutthroat trout expert Dr. Richard Williams. These series and other presentations are posted on this webpage .  You do NOT need to be an FFI member to attend.

And then there's OFF THE WATER. Prior to the pandemic, the Bayou Coast Kayak Fishing Club had started doing a weekly Facebook Live program on Tuesdays at 8:00pm. The program features weekly guests on a wide variety of subjects, and cover topics from recent and upcoming tournaments, fishing locations and tips, fishing reports, tackle tips, and much more. It's also entertaining as well!

Speaking of kayak fishing. Check out this article by Melinda Martinez of the Alexandria Town Talk about kayak fishing in central Louisiana. The article features myself, Mark Elliott of H2GO Outdoors in Monroe, and Jerry & Kelly Maynor of Tioga. Martinez also mentions the Kayak & Canoe Fishing Tournaments Of Central Louisiana Group as well as Pack & Paddle of Lafayette.

Fishing reports. Great bream fishing continues across south Louisiana, especially in the Verrett-Palourde system. Recently bream have been bedding strong in central and northern parishes. Hotspots include Cane River, Lake Nantachie, Chicot Lake, Black River Lake, Caney Lake, Lake D'arbonne, and Cross Lake. Bass fishing on Toledo Bend in backwaters is good with frog patterns right now. On the coast, speckled trout have been hot in Golden Meadow and Hopedale, with some big fish being caught out west in Calcasieu on the south end of Big Lake. Redfish have been pretty solid everywhere except those areas affected by river water (fish are there but flies aren't as effective).

Redington, Risen add new products to 2020

After this past week's new products posting, I received a couple of emails announcing more new items just released. Both from companies that target the budget and mid-priced market.

Redington Run fly reel - Let's face it, most freshwater fly fishing situations don't need a machined reel - which can cost hundreds. For example, the very popular Lamson Liquid and Orvis Encounter are not machined and sell for around $100. What they do have are very good centerline drag systems (conical and carbon disc) and appealing aesthetics. The new Run offers likewise. The carbon fiber drag is adjusted using an ergonomic knob. It comes in three color options (black, silver, burgundy) with a nylon reel case and a lifetime warranty. MSRP is $109.

Risen 23PS rods - Speaking of aesthetics, you normally wouldn't find high appeal in anything less than $500, but the new freshwater-targeted 23PS series does just that. For $289, you get a rod built on a fast-action IM12 Metallic Green blank, light green and silver thread wrappings, a nickel silver machined reel seat with green burl wood insert, and AAA-rated cork grip. The only negative is that the series is limited to five lengths/weights. The 23PS also includes Risen's lifetime warranty.

While you were quarantining - five new products for 2020

Many non-essential businesses are beginning to reopen, including fly shops and other fly fishing related retailers. As they do, fly anglers might be surprised to find several new items arriving as we move into summer. These were products we expected to see in Spring, until the pandemic arrived.

Here are the ones that we think will generate the most excitement:

Simms Dry Creek Z Sling Pack - Submersible packs aren't new. What's different with the DCZ is the TruZip, a 100% waterproof, self-healing zipper that isn't a tooth zipper. While the pack incorporates lots of interior room (enough for a laptop?), it also features a water-resistant exterior pocket for quick access to keys or wallet. What excites me most about the DCZ is that it comes in a gorgeous Pacific Blue color as well as the usual camo. After all, this is fishing not hunting. MSRP $229. 

Orvis Hydros fly reel (upgraded) - The Hydros is one of the best values in a mid-priced saltwater fly reel. The machined body is complimented by a sealed clutch-bearing drag and low startup inertia. For 2020, Orvis has reduced the weight while strengthing the top-end drag. It also comes in LSU Purple. What's not to love? MSRP for the Hydros IV (8-weight model) is $259. 

Cheeky Launch - Friends will tell you that I love my Cheeky reel. It's not just functional, but I love the simplistic style and color. Also a big positive: a narrow spool which eliminates line stacking. For 2020, Cheeky has replaced it's popular mid-priced Boost series with the Launch. Lighter and with improvements on their sealed carbon drag system, the Launch 400  (8-weight model) weighs only 6.8 ounces and comes in a beautiful light blue color (notice that I love blue). MSRP is $249. 

Sage Maverick - this is a new mid-priced saltwater rod series that replaces their Motive series. I had an opportunity to cast this new rod at a show back in December before it was even announced. I was blown away. Unlike the Motive, the 7-weight Maverick had no problem casting 90-100 feet of line on target. Not that I fish that far out, but that type of reserve power comes in handy at times. No problem casting 30 feet on target either. Now the question is, how does it fight a big red? Sage salt rods have always risen to the occasion there, and if the Maverick does, it'll be one of the best salt rods on the market at any price level. MSRP $550. 

Orvis Recon II - At the December expo, the Sage rep told me, "We're aiming for the Orvis Recon". The Recon has been in the top tier of every group review, e.g. "shootouts", often rating above premium rods costing twice as much. Orvis is not sitting on their laurels. For 2020, they've adapted their Helios 3 technology into the Recon. Now I like the Helios 3, but I don't think it's the best premium rod (some friends do). So for me, adding H3 tech to the Recon might not be an improvement. If Orvis successfully managed to keep the beloved Recon taper while injecting the Helios vibration reduction, then this rod will certainly remain king of the mid-priced rods. MSRP $549 for the 8-weight model.   

More cancellations announced

Within the span of a week, two of the country's largest annual fishing trade shows have been cancelled.

The American Fly Fishing Trade Association announced that the 2020 International Fly Tackle Dealer Show (IFTD), scheduled for October 7-9 in Denver, is now cancelled.

Then last week, the American Sportfishing Association announced that the world's largest conventional fishing show, ICAST, once again scheduled for July in Orlando, is cancelled.

Previously, Fly Fishers International announced the cancellation of their annual Fly Fishing Expo set for July 21-25 in Bozeman, MT. Other major outdoors organizations such as NRA, Ducks Unlimited, and Pope and Young have cancelled their annual conventions.

With regards to regional fly fishing events, the latest cancellation is the FFI Southern Council Fly Fishing Fair. It was set to return in October as a mixed event, with a festival and tournament format. Also, last week, the annual Leeville Fly Fishing Weekend was also nixed. Hosted by the Red Stick Fly Fishers with participation of clubs in Louisiana and Mississippi, it was scheduled for early July.  A week ago, Ted Warren announced that the annual Bass On The Fly, set for Lake Fork in early May, was cancelled.

Between now and October only two events remain open for now.  The North Louisiana Fly Fishers Masters Series - set for the last Saturday in July.  And the LDWF's National Hunting and Fishing Day events on the last Saturday in September.

All club meetings are still off for the foreseeable future. A few have gone to video conferencing to hold meetings and tying sessions.

Virtual fly fishing in the time of social distancing

It's now evident that ALL fly fishing events - from beginner fly fishing and fly tying clinics to gatherings to tournaments - from now through April are cancelled or postponed. 

That doesn't mean that fly anglers can't get together across the internet. Virtual webinars and meetings via Instagram, Facebook Live, Zoom, and other internet platforms is at an all-time high as a result of social distancing guidelines.

Here are just a few of the internet activities taking place:

Orvis has a new Instagram Live series featuring some of the industry's top guides, product experts and fly fishing gurus. Here is the schedule:

Techniques and Tactics with Tom Rosenbauer
LIVE on Instagram @OrvisGrandRapids @rosenbauert
Monday, March 30th -7:00pm CST
Tom Rosenbauer and Trent Jackson will discuss their favorite small-stream trout tactics and answer your questions.

Guide Speak with Josh Nugent of Out Fly-Fishing Outfitters
LIVE on Instagram @OrvisPlano
Tuesday, March 31st - 7:00pm CST
Josh Nugent, Owner and Guide at Out Fly-Fishing Outfitters in Calgary, joins Plano Fishing Manager Steven Palmer to discuss what makes the incredible fisheries in Calgary so unique.

Fly Tying with Bryan Eldredge, Falcon's Ledge Guide
LIVE on Instagram @OrvisSanAntonio
Wednesday, April 1st - 7:00pm CST
Grab your vice and join Falcon's Ledge Guide Bryan Eldredge and Landon Rowlett, Fishing Manager of Orvis San Antonio. Bryan will Tie his favorite Dry and Dropper while also discussing the best way to fish them.

Gear Talk with Shawn Combs and Ian Huang
Live on Instagram @OrvisBatonRouge
Thursday, April 2nd - 7:00pm CST
Join Shawn Combs, Rod and Tackle Product Developer (including the Helios 3), along with Ian Huang, Baton Rouge Fishing Manager, as they swap stories about the gear they're using to chase fish this spring.

Club online tying sessions
Zoom has extended some of the Pro features to the Free version during the COVID-19 pandemic. The New Orleans and Kisatchie clubs are discussing using Zoom to conduct online fly tying sessions. Bill Morrison and Gene Taylor, Tying Co-Chairs for the KFF club, are estimating the first session within the next 8 days.  Because of the attendee limitation on the Free version, clubs will be restricting these sessions to "members only". 

Corona Virus cancellations and postponements - running update

On Monday, President Trump and the White House Coronavirus Task Force issued new guidelines to help protect Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people.  Later in the day, numerous state and local agencies, public libraries, private businesses, etc., announced closures of facilities where groups meet.  That resulted in yet more  cancellations and postponements of fly fishing and kayak fishing events.

This will be a running post of all activities which are posted, or have been posted, on our Calendar page. Please check back here often to get the latest as more announcements are posted daily.

Cancellations:
- Sowbug Roundup
- Texas Fly Fishing & Brew Festival
- Tri-Lakes Fly Fishing Festival
- New Orleans City Park Big Bass Rodeo
- Fly Fish Texas
- Boats on the Bayou
- Kayak Fishing U. / March LKFC meeting
- New Orleans Fly Fishers March meetings
- Kisatchie Fly Fishers April meetings (no more March meetings)
- Fly Fishers International (FFI) National Expo
- Reel Recovery April retreats (including 1 in Louisiana)

Postponements (rescheduled for Fall 2020)
- Bayou Coast Kayak Fishing Club "Trout Challenge"
- Cenla Fly Fishing 101
- Lake Athens Fly Fishing Festival  

Event cancellations due to Coronavirus concerns

As mentioned yesterday, Spring is one of the busiest times of the year for fly fishing and kayak fishing events nationwide. But concerns about the spread of the COVID-19 virus have led health and government officials to promote "social distancing" as a means of containing the spread.

Starting this past Thursday, many state and local governments nationwide began ordering bans on large gatherings. On Friday afternoon, Louisiana followed suit when Governor John Bel Edwards issued an executive order closing all Louisiana public schools, banning gatherings of 250 or more, and postponing the state's April 4 presidential primary.

The immedate ban closed down the Louisiana Sportsmans Show for Saturday and Sunday. After a very low turnout on Thursday and Friday afternoon, the weekend closure was a serious economic blow for the many vendors.

The FFI Gulf Coast Council's first-ever Sweetwater Classic went on as planned at Percy Quin State Park in Mississippi. The tournament only had 44 attendees, well below the gathering limit. Disinfectant wipes were available for attendees.

However, just about every event planned for the next 8 weeks was cancelled over the weekend. Here is a list of fly fishing events cancelled or postponed across the region:

- TRWD Flyfest (TX)
- Sowbug Roundup (AR)
- Texas Fly Fishing & Brew Festival (TX)
- Tri-Lakes Fly Fishing Festival (MO)
- New Orleans City Park Big Bass Rodeo (LA)
- Fly Fish Texas (TX)

The Kisatchie Fly Fishers is looking at postponing their annual Fly Fishing 101, and Bayou Coast is considering cancelling their annual Paddlepalooza.  Club meetings are also under consideration for cancellations over the next month or two.

We'll keep everyone abreast of further developments.

Special events this week - 3/8

Starting Thursday, and running thru Sunday, its the it's the 41st annual Louisiana Sportsmans Show at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales. The state's largest outdoors show runs 2pm to 9pm on Thursday and Friday, 9am to 9pm on Saturday, and 10am to 6pm on Sunday. For a complete list of exhibitors, activities and seminars, go to www.louisianasportsmanshow.com.

On Friday, and continuing Saturday, it's the first-ever Gulf Coast Sweetwater Classic fly fishing tournament and festival at Percy Quin State Park near McComb, MS. Hosted by the Fly Fishers International Gulf Coast Council (FFI-GCC), the event activities include: casting instruction and casting skills challenge, fly tying demos, Big Bream Contest (Friday afternoon) and the Sweetwater Classic Tournament (Saturday morning). The festival is FREE and admission to the park is free for attendees. The Big Bream Contest entry fee is $5 cash (winner take all), and the Classic Tournament entry fee is $25 (register via iAngler).  There's also a "One Feather Fly Tying Contest" on Friday evening, and an "Iron Fly Tying" contest on Saturday afternoon. For complete details and schedule, go to www.gulfcoastcouncilffi.org.

Special events this week - 3/1

On Thursday, Pack and Paddle will hold a "Community Fly Tying Night - Lies, Ties & Dumbell Eyes" at their store on 601 E. Pinhook in Lafayette. Time is 6:00pm. The event is free and open to the public.  Folks are encouraged to bring their vise and tools if they have them. If you're new, we have a few vises and tools we can loan. For details, go to www.packpaddle.com.

On Friday evening, it's the start of Pack & Paddle's annual Spring Demo Weekend with a "Beer and Gear Social" at their store on 601 East Pinhook in Lafayette. Time is 5:30pm to 8:00pm. The social will feature kayak and fishing vendors, and feature various micro-brews from across the country. The event is free. There will also be drawings, including for a new kayak. Must be present to win.

Also on Friday, it's the International Fly Fishing Film Festival at Orvis in Baton Rouge. More on that later.

On Saturday, it's the annual Red Stick Day fly fishing festival in Baton Rouge. More on that later.

Saturday, PnP will hold a free "Kayak and Fly Rod Demo Day" at Vermillionville Pond in Lafayette. Time is 10:00am to 2:00pm.  There will be demo fly rods from Scott and TFO to test cast. You'll also be able to demo the amazing OneWheel. And of course, test out kayak and paddleboard models from Jackson, Hobie, Native Watercraft, Bonafide Kayaks, Hurricane Kayaks, Swift, NuCanoe, Wenonah, Bote Board and others. For more, go to www.packpaddle.com.

Baton Rouge to host IF4, Red Stick Day this weekend

Two major annual fly fishing events of the year are on the agenda for this weekend, both in Baton Rouge.

On Friday night, Orvis BR will host the International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) at their store on 7601 Bluebonnet. Like the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) which Pack & Paddle hosted in February, the IF4 is a series of short films celebrating the sport of fly fishing, by chronicling epic trips, sharing the kinship of anglers and friends, and taking us to places we could only dream of.   If there's a difference between IF4 and F3T, it's that IF4 is more, well, international.

Doors open at 5:00pm and the showing starts at 6:00pm. Tickets are $15 and seating is limited. All proceeds go to the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana.  To reserve tickets, drop in at their store on 7601 Bluebonnet Blvd or call 225-757-7286.

On Saturday, across town at the LDWF Waddill Outdoors Education Center, it's the 26th annual Red Stick Day fly fishing festival. Hosted by the Red Stick Fly Fishers, this is the oldest and longest-running event of its kind in Louisiana.

Time is 8:30am to 3:00pm. Location of Waddill is 4141 Flannery Rd. Admission is free. A jambalaya lunch is offered for $7 along with free refreshments.

RSD has a proud history of featuring some of the biggest names in fly fishing. Louisiana's own Kirk Dietrich may well qualify for that honor, as he certainly is one of the top fly tiers in the country. His flies have been sold by Orvis for over two decades. Last year, his first book, "Tying Bugs: The Complete Book of Poppers, Sliders, and Divers" was released to rave reviews. Kirk will tie as well as give a presentation on making bugs.

Other presentations will be given by world casting competitor Jay Clark, an FFI Master Certified Instructor; "Preparation and Strategies for Coldwater Trout" by Orvis BR staff Alex Beane and Ian Huang, and "Kayak Fishing Strategies for Fresh and Saltwater" by veteran kayak fly anglers Catch Cormier and Mike LaFleur.

RSD also features fly tying demonstrations by some of the region's top fly tiers including Mark Pinsel, Ted Cabali, Ron Braud, Kyle Moppert, Mike Jackson, Steve Oliver, Ray Boudreaux, Ron Foreman and Kenneth Breaux.

Then there's the huge raffle with many one-of-a-kind items. Monies from the fundraiser go to the club's educational initiatives.

For complete info, including schedule of activities, go to www.rsff.org and click on "2020 Red Stick Day".

More public meetings on speckled trout this week

On Wednesday, LDWF will hold another in its series of statewide public meetings on the future of speckled trout management at Calcasieu Parish Extension Office, 7101 Gulf Highway in Lake Charles. Time is 6:00pm. Conservationists are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting and fill out a BLUE card to comment at the end of session and voice support for a 14" minimum size regulation.

On Thursday, LDWF will hold another in its series of statewide public meetings on the future of speckled trout management at Rapides Parish Extension Office, 300 Grady Britt Drive in Alexandria. Time is 6:00pm. Conservationists are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting and fill out a BLUE card to comment at the end of session and voice support for a 14" minimum size regulation.

On Saturday, LDWF will hold the final meeting in its series of statewide public meetings on the future of speckled trout management at Lincoln Parish Library, 910 North Trenton Street in Ruston. Time is 1:00pm (afternoon). Conservationists are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting and fill out a BLUE card to comment at the end of session and voice support for a 14" minimum size regulation.

Special events this week - 2/16

On Wednesday, LDWF will hold another in its series of statewide public meetings on the future of speckled trout management at East Bank Regional Library, 4747 West Napoleon Avenue in Metairie. Time is 6:00pm. Conservationists are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting and fill out a BLUE card to comment at the end of session and voice support for a 14" minimum size regulation.

On Thursday, LDWF will hold another in its series of statewide public meetings on the future of speckled trout management at Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2056 Second Street in Slidell. Time is 6:00pm. Conservationists are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting and fill out a BLUE card to comment at the end of session and voice support for a 14" minimum size regulation.

Starting Friday and continuing thru Sunday, it's Troutfest 2020 at Lazy L&L Campgrounds in New Braunfels, Texas. Sponsored by Guadalupe River Trout Unlimited is a fly fishing banquet and exposition to raise funding to conserve, protect and restore the cold tailwater fishery below Canyon Dam, the southernmost year-round trout fishery in the USA. Seminars, fly tying demonstrations, casting clinics, Kid Fish Pond, vendors and much more.  For more info, go to www.grtu.org.

Time for fly anglers to fight for conservation!

Tonight kicks off the first of 8 public meetings hosted by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries on the future of speckled trout management. The meetings are in response to biologists studies that show that seatrout are overfished, and changes are necessary in order to recover the stock.

Some of the responses I've seen on Facebook give new meaning to the word "stupid". Some of the very same folks who said that the Calcasieu limit of 15 was implemented despite the "science", and we should've listened to the biologists, are now saying the science is unreliable, the biologists are not always right and no changes should be made. Honestly folks, you can't make this sh*t up!

Regardless, it points out that there will be resistance to tighter limits. Those of us who support conservation MUST be at these meetings and make our voice heard. I hate to say this, but there are a good number of fly anglers who either don't care about speckled trout, or give conservation lip service. Therefore those of us who DO LOVE to fly fish for specks must carry the burden.

The chart says it all. We need a 20% savings in the spawning potential ratio. This means a 14" minimum size limit with either a 15 or 20 daily limit.

Personally I strongly support 14/15 - 14 inch minimum size and 15 fish daily limit. This will get us back above the conservation target in the least amount of time and keep us safely above that target for the foreseeable future. 

For meeting dates and locations in your area, check out our Calendar page.

Special events this week - 2/9

On Monday, LDWF will begin the first of several public meetings on the future of speckled trout management, with a meeting at the North Branch Library on 4130 West Park Ave in Gray. Time is 6:00pm.

On Wednesday, LDWF will hold a public meeting on the future of speckled trout management at LDWF headquarters on 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge. Time is 6:00pm.

On Thursday, LDWF will hold a public meeting on the future of speckled trout management at the Lafayette City Council Chambers on 705 West University Avenue. Time is 6:00pm.

This Friday is Valentine's Day. Do something special for the one you love and take them fishing!

On Saturday, it's the 15th-ever Little Mo Fly Fishing Festival at the Community Center in Murfreesboro, Arkansas. This popular event celebrates southwest Arkansas' premier year-round trout fishing river and features between a dozen and two dozen fly tiers from across the Ark-La-Tex. There are also programs, vendors and exhibitors. That evening is the annual "Fly Draft".  The event concludes on Sunday with an on-the-river casting clinic. For more info, including list of tiers and programs and schedule, go to www.littlemissouriflyfishing.com.

Rizzolo Fly Tying Fest this Saturday

On Saturday, it's the 28th annual Dr. Ed Rizzolo Fly Tying Festival in Houston.  Location is Bethany Christian Church Community Center at 3223 Westheimer.  Time is 8:30am to 3:30pm. Admission is charged.  Hosted by the Texas Fly Fishers, this event features the largest group of fly tiers of any event on the Gulf Coast, with over 60 tiers. This year's special guest is Gunnar Brammer. For more details, see our January 28th post, or go to www.texasflyfishers.org.  

Gunnar Brammer headliner at Feb. 8th tying festival

Hosted by the Texas Fly Fishers of Houston, the Dr. Ed Rizzolo Fly Tying Festival features the largest group of fly tiers of any event on the Gulf Coast, with over 70 tiers from several states. Once again, it'll be held at Bethany Christian Church Community Center on 3223 Westheimer. Admission is $10 adults, family $15, students & seniors $8, and children under 12 free.

In addition to the tying demos, there are also several seminars during the day, there are also exhibitors, and demo casting. A barbecue lunch is available for a nominal cost.

Each year, TFF brings in a prominent name in fly tying as their headliner. This year's special guest is Gunnar  Brammer  of  Duluth,  Minnesota, one  of  fly  tying’s  most  amazing  young  tyers. Gunnar specializes in designing  and  tying  predator  flies  for  all  big game  species,  with bait fish patterns ranging from 3-inch bass patterns all the way to 14-inch beast-styled musky patterns, to offshore flies.  If  you  would  like  to  learn  more about Gunnar along with his patterns and impressive style of tying, visit his website at www.streamersbygunnar.com

Special events this week - 1/26

Friday and Saturday it's the Atlanta Fly Fishing Show at the Infinite Energy Center in Duluth, Georgia. This is the largest fly fishing show in the South, and will feature over 200 presentations by some of the biggest names in the sport and regional experts. Along with numerous vendors and fly tiers. For more info, go to www.flyfishingshow.com.

On Saturday, Pack & Paddle in Lafayette will host the 2020 Fly Fishing Film Tour - in conjunction with one of their "Fly Fishing Hangouts" - at their store on 601 E. Pinhook in Lafayette. The Hangout kicks off at 3:00pm with complimentary snacks, brews, and soft drinks. There's casting games at 3:00pm, and an Iron Fly Tying competition at 4:00pm. At 5:00pm, the film festival kicks off. A limited number of tickets are still available. For more info, read our writeup of January 21st, or go to www.packpaddle.com.

LDWF announces public meetings on speckled trout management

* Please note updated times and locations *

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced dates for public meetings to be held on spotted seatrout (speckled trout) management. The most recent stock assessment indicated spotted seatrout are overfished and undergoing overfishing and changes are necessary in order to recover the stock.

The slide to the left was part of the presentation given by LDWF biologists at the January meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. It shows that speckled trout spawning stocks have been on the decline since 2010, and below both the conservation target (yellow line) of 14 percent since 2012, and the recruitment threshold (magenta line) of 10.2 percent since 2013.  It also shows what various savings in the spawning biomass or potential ratio (both had similiar graphs) would result in.


No action is being taken at this time.  The Commission indicated it would like to hear public input before considering management changes.  LDWF’s biological opinion is that a 20% reduction in harvest is needed in order to recover the stock by 2025 or sooner, but there are a range of options that can achieve that goal.  From the standpoint of Fly Fishers International Gulf Coast Council (FFI-GCC),  the best management goal is one that takes us above the conservation target in the least amount of time.

Management change options recently presented to the LWFC in early January 2020 included:
- creel limit only changes
- minimum size limit changes only
- combined creel and minimum size limit changes
- slot limit only changes
- combined slot limit and creel changes.

Below is a list of meeting dates and locations.  All meetings will begin at 6:00 p.m., except the meeting in Ruston, which will begin at 1:00 p.m.

- Monday, February 10 – North Branch Library, 4130 West Park Ave, Gray
- Wednesday, February 12 – LDWF HQ, Herring Room, 2000 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge
- Thursday, February 13 – Lafayette Council Chambers, 705 West University Avenue,  Lafayette
- Wednesday, February 19 – East Bank Regional Library, 4747 West Napoleon Avenue, Metairie
- Thursday, February 20 – Slidell Municipal Auditorium, 2056 Second Street, Slidell
- Wednesday, February 26 – Calcasieu Parish Extension Office, 7101 Gulf Highway, Lake Charles
- Thursday, February 27 – Rapides Parish Extension Office, 300 Grady Britt Drive, Alexandria
- Saturday, February 29 – Lincoln Parish Library, 910 North Trenton Street, Ruston

LDWF is partnering with Louisiana Sea Grant to use interactive voting technology at these public hearings in response to a survey that will be given at the meetings.  LDWF will also be sending out an email survey identical to the survey that will be administered at public meetings.

For more information, please contact Jason Adriance at 504-284-2032 or jadriance@wlf.la.gov.

Fly Fishing Film Tour coming to Lafayette February 1st

The 14th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is coming to Louisiana twice this year, with the first stop being at Pack & Paddle in Lafayette on Saturday, February 1st. P&P will also hold one of their now-famous "Fly Fishing Hangouts" that afternoon prior to the showing.

F3T is a collection of independent short films highlighting the adventure and conservation aspects of our sport. Shot across the US, Canada and around the world, these films celebrate fly fishing in all it's splendor.  F3T is shown at select venues across the country.

The tour is more than just great fishing adventures, epic takes and spectacular scenery. For example, three of this year's many films focus on conservation and community:
- “Common Tread”, a story where fly fishing is the glue that holds several generations of a Texas family together through the loss of a beloved family member.
- "Project Rainbow", the story of how a dedicated group of anglers and researchers worked to save the Gunnison River from whirling disease.
- "Time", profiles Lefty Kreh and Flip Pallot, who both taught and inspired thousands of anglers.

In addition to the film showing, Pack & Paddle will host their Fly Fishing Hangout starting at 3:00pm with complimentary snacks, beer, and soft drinks. There's a "MarshMan Sharpshooter Casting Competition" at 3:00pm, and an "Iron Fly Tying Competition" at 4:00pm. At 5:00pm, the film festival kicks off.

Tickets are $15. Tickets are available at Pack & Paddle or can be purchased online at their website at www.packpaddle.com. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged as the event is limited to 60 tickets and has sold out the last two years. 

More Rainbeaux Trout coming tomorrow

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will be stocking seven ponds around the state with 2,300 pounds of rainbow trout on Tuesday, January 21st. The effort is part of the department's "Get Out and Fish!" community fishing program. The program is designed to provide good bank fishing for all ages.

The ponds to receive trout are: Oil and Gas Park (Jennings), Southside Regional Park (Youngsville), Girard Park (Lafayette), Burbank Pond (Baton Rouge), Sid Hutchison Park (Walker), Zemurray Park (Hammond), and Joe W. Brown Park (New Orleans).

A week ago, LDWF stocked 2,100 pounds in several other ponds involved in their GOAF program. Back in December, Baton Rouge Recreation (BREC) Department stocked five parish ponds with rainbow trout, and Ascension Parish stocked Lamar-Dixon in Gonzales with trout.

The trout are a coldwater species and rarely survive past March. However by then almost all of them have been caught and taken out. The daily limit is four (4) fish per person. Anglers 16 and older must have a Louisiana license when fishing any public waters.

Special events this week - 1/12

A big week ahead!  Starting with the College Football National Championship Monday night. Our LSU Tigers take on defending champions Clemson in the Superdome. Obviously, all meetings for Monday night have been cancelled or moved back one week. This weekend also marks the kickoff of the "Events Season" with events in Pineville, Baton Rouge and Lake Charles over the next several weeks.

On Saturday, it's the 3rd-ever Cenla Fly Fishing & Light Tackle Festival at Kees Park in Pineville. More on that later.

Also on Saturday, Orvis of Baton Rouge will hold their annual  "Travel Day" at their store on 7601 Bluebonnet in Perkins-Rowe. Time is 10:30am to 2:00pm. Admission is free. Meet and speak with representatives of Orvis-endorsed lodges and fly fishing guides from across North America and the Caribbean. For more info, click here.

Make plans for Cenla Festival this Saturday!

Cenla Fly Fishing & Light Tackle Festival
Saturday, January 18, 2020
8:30am to 3:30pm
Kees Park, 2450 Highway 28 East, Pineville, LA
FREE admission!

In even-numbered years, the Kisatchie Fly Fishers hold their biennial Festival, a celebration of the light tackle lifestyle. While the majority of the event is fly fishing, there's also some elements of light tackle spinning and casting for bass, crappie, redfish and speckled trout.

On tap are seminars on bass fishing Toledo Bend, fly fishing the Little Missouri River (Arkansas), and fishing from kayaks for freshwater and marsh. Over 20 fly tiers and jig makers from Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Alabama and Mississippi will be demonstrating their craft.

Fly casting. Saturday morning, FFI Master Certified instructor Jeff Ferguson will lead a casting presentation followed by coaching. That afternoon, Jeff, Roger Breedlove and Chris Perkins will lead a "Casting Skills Challenge" open to all attendees. If you're an FFI member, it's a chance to earn your casting accomplishment pin.

There's also several exhibitors and a huge raffle and Gamblers Draw. The event is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Central Louisiana, and the KFF club's conservation initiatives.

A pastalaya lunch will be served along with choice of tea, lemonade or bottled water for just $5. 

For complete details, including schedule and list of tiers, go to www.kisatchiefly.org.

Welcome to 2020

2020 - Cajun Year of the Gator

First off, wishing all our LFF Community and their loved ones the best wishes for a safe, healthy, and prosperous year ahead. 

For my fellow fly flingers - may your loops be tight and your flies get victimized often! For my fellow kayak anglers - may the waters be calm and your butts stay dry! 

As you can see from the Calendar page, there are many great activities coming up this Spring for those of us who pursue fish on the fly and/or from a paddlecraft.  Hope to see some of you at one or more of these events... or on the water!

Top 5 Louisiana fly fishing stories of 2019

For Louisiana fly fishing interests, 2019 was another notable year.  Some good, some bad.  Here's our picks for the top stories, in ascending order.

5. New Orleans, Alexandria clubs have exceptional year

It was another successful year for all of Louisiana's fly fishing clubs.  Moreso for the New Orleans Fly Fishers and the Kisatchie Fly Fishers (Alexandria).  Both received club awards from the Fly Fishers International Gulf Coast Council for their contributions in 2018 and the early part of 2019.   

In April, the NOFF club held their first-ever New Orleans Fly Fishing Expo at Deutsches Haus on Bayou St. John in New Orleans. With Jon Cave as headliner, and a few special activities such as kayak demos, "Iron Fly Competition" and "Outdoors Writers Roundtable", this was a fun and memorable event.  It also raised funds for Casting For Recovery.  NOFF later went on to have several club outings and another successful "Rio Grande Fly Fishing Rodeo" in October.

The KFF club once again held their "Fly Fishing 101" clinic, their Summer Workshop, and their "Mixed Bag Contest" CPR tournament.  As well as participated in local events such as Cenla National Hunting and Fishing Day.  But it was the "Casting Skills Challenge" - a Fly Fishers International program initiated on the club level by Roger Breedlove and Chris Perkins that led to a significant number of their members greatly improving their casting through the program. 

4. Newbie wins Fly Fishin For The Mission

At any fishing tournament, it's difficult for novice anglers to beat out experienced ones.  Even moreso with fly tournaments, where proficient casting - often acquired with time and practice - is the key to success. But at this past year's "Fly Fishin For the Mission" saltwater fly fishing tournament, it was a rank newbie who outshined a bevy of veteran fly anglers.

Jessie Hamilton was one of several veterans who showed up a day early to take free fly fishing lessons from Donald Dehm of Floating Feathers Fly Fishing School. By the end of the day, Dehm had Hamilton – a first-time flycaster - not only casting effectively but prepped for fighting his first red.

On tournament day, Hamilton teamed with Capt. Ty Hibbs and caught his first redfish ever on fly rod. Then he preceeded to catch four more!  Hamilton and Hibbs won the Overall Division in the tournament, finishing ahead of 23 other teams.

Hamilton thanked Dehm for the lessons, and Hibbs for spending the extra day to scout and guide him. He called the experience a "lasting memory". Part of his prize package was a fly fishing outfit, so expect Hamilton to hone his new addiction and be back in 2020 to defend his title!

3. Another bad weather year

Living in Louisiana, we could probably claim inclement weather as the norm not the exception. But this year we had a few very notable negatives.

In the first half of the year, the southeast area of the state had to deal with record river flooding. The Bonnet Carre Spillway had to be opened twice and for record duration. Nutrients in the river were responsible for detrimental algae blooms across Lake Pontchartrain and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Fishing in the lake remained subpar the rest of the year.

Meanwhile, western parishes had 140% of normal precipitation. This resulted in poor freshwater fishing and a very late trout run on Calcasieu and Sabine.  It was hoped cooler weather would bring in the trout to Calcasieu.  But "global warming" raised it's ugly head... our first cool front didn't arrive until October, giving us the warmest September on record.

While we avoided a major hurricane this year, storm season started very early and ended very late. Hurricane Barry in July brought over 8 feet of flood tide across southeast coastal parishes. It forced cancellation of the annual "Leeville Fly Fishing Weekend" as well as the Lafayette Kayak Fishing Club's annual "LA1 Slamboree". It also wiped out PAC Kayak Rentals in Pointe-aux-Chenes, a very popular launch spot for fly anglers and kayak anglers.  Eddie and Lisa Mullen's business has since been rebuilt thanks to donations from kayak and fly anglers.  In October, tropical storm Olga brought 3 to 4 feet of flood tide across southeast marshes - on the same weekend as the Kisatchie Fly Fishers and Red Stick Fly Fishers annual fall marsh trips.

2. Kirk Dietrich publishes his first book - and nails it!

A native of Chalmette and lifelong resident of southeast Louisiana, Kirk is a is a nationally-renown fly tier recognized for his many innovative warmwater and saltwater patterns. His Kirks Spoon and Kirks Rattle Rouser have been perenial favorites for Orvis customers for two decades. He's also written numerous articles for magazines and websites, and has been awarded the Fly Fishers International Gulf Coast Council Fly Tier Distinction Award.

Kirks is also considered one of the best anywhere when it comes to balsa and other hard-body flies. For this reason, there was epic excitement when his first book came out this summer. "Tying Bugs: The Complete Book of Poppers, Sliders, and Divers For Fresh and Salt Water" has 224 pages with 917 photos and over 400 detailed step-by-step instructions, along with numerous historical anecdotes. The book sells for $31.95 and has received rave reviews. One of the reviewers on Amazon - some dude named Pat Cohen - states, "This book is a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to get into topwater flies...if you thought crafting flies from balsa or cork was out of your reach, this is the book for you". We concur!

1. Speckled trout in trouble, and "changes must be made"

LDWF marine biologists dropped a bombshell at the September meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. While there had been plenty of anecdotal evidence from anglers that speckled trout fishing was well below normal, the presentation revealed that the problem is real, has been for some time, and is getting worse.

According to biologists, our seatrout spawning potential recruitment (SPR) is the lowest of any Gulf state, having fallen below the target of 14% since 2012, and currently at 8 percent. The problem is happening across all estuaries. In addition to overfishing, there's been a steady increase in winter kills of trout. The latter is most likely due to coastal erosion and loss of deepwater havens during hard freezes.

Early in 2020, LDWF will advance several management options to the Commission. They include any combination of creel limit reductions, increase in minimum size limits, slot limits, closed areas, and possibly even closed seasons. It should be pointed out that other Gulf states have much more restrictive seatrout regulations - including new ones implemented this past year in Florida, Alabama, and Texas.

Film festivals coming to Louisiana in 2020

The 14th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) features short films from across the nation and globe, fresh and salt, with anglers young and old, experiencing the passion of our favorite sport.

The 10th annual International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) consists of short films produced by professional filmmakers from across the globe, showcasing the passion, lifestyle and culture of fly fishing.

The F3T and IF4 film tours will make three (3) stops in Louisiana this Spring.
- Pack & Paddle in Lafayette will host the F3T on Saturday, February 1st. 
- Orvis in Baton Rouge will host the IF4 on Friday evening, March 6th.  
- Orvis will also host the F3T on Saturday, May 16th. 
Tickets for all these events are limited, and in recent years, have sold out in advance.

Pack and Paddle will hold the F3T in conjunction with one of their "Fly Fishing Hangouts".  Starting at 3:00pm, there will be fly tying, casting games and an "Iron Fly Competition" for ticket holders. Also, snacks, beer and soft drinks are complimentary. Film starts between 5:00pm and 5:30pm. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at their store on 601 East Pinhook, or online through their website.  For complete details, go to www.packpaddle.com.

Orvis will host the IF4 at their store on 7501 Bluebonnet Blvd in Baton Rouge at 6:00pm. Prior to the film, there will be complimentary snacks, beer  and soft drinks. Exhibitors and demonstration fly tying as well. Drawings for prizes during the film as well. Tickets are $15. Proceeds will go to benefit the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana. For more details, or tickets, call the store at 225-757-7286.

More details on the Orvis hosting of the F3T in May will be made available at a later date.

Merry Christmas!

This marks the last of activities until 2020. So starting now, we'll be on break. If something important does comes up, it'll be posted on our Facebook page.

So here's wishing a most blessed Christmas for all our friends! Hope everyone finds something under the Christmas tree they can use for their piscatorial pursuits in the coming year.  And let's not forget the reason for the season: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.".

Bring on the rainbeaux trout!

Sydney Dobson took this trout in one of the BREC ponds

Sometime this week, the first stockings of rainbow trout will be made in several small lakes and ponds across Louisiana, either by parish agencies or as part of Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries "Get Out and Fish" community fishing program.

The trout are stocked as put-and-take, with a daily limit of four (4).  In conjunction with the stockings, LDWF holds fishing tournaments at each of their community lakes. A list of GOAF lakes can be found on this webpage: click here.

Louisiana joins over 30 other states that have wintertime stockings of the popular coldwater species in small lakes and ponds where bank anglers have easy access. It provides a very active fishery at a time when warmwater species are fairly dormant. Whatever trout survive harvesting will likely die sometime in late March or early April when the water temperatures get too warm.

Fly anglers across the state, regardless of skill level, can be found at these ponds once the rainbeaux trout arrive. While corn, marshmallows, powerbait and other "commie tackle" might work for the first week, once the trout become acclimated to the food life of the pond, they quickly revert to those bugs. Advantage fly fishers!

Our neighbors over in Texas also have a community fishing program, with trout stockings from early December through February.  This winter, Texas Parks and Wildlife plans to stock 343,000 trout in 158 lakes and ponds. For anyone traveling to the Lone Star state over the holidays, check out this list to see if a local water has rainbows: click here. 

FTU Expo in Houston this Saturday

On Saturday, it's the 13th annual Inshore Fly & Light Tackle Expo at Fishing Tackle Unlimited in Houston. Location is at their store on 10303 Katy Freeway. Time is 10:00am to 4:00pm. It's free and open to the public. Special guest is world champion flycaster and Loomis Rods engineering director Steve Rajeff. The format includes seminars by regional saltwater guides, casting demonstration by Rajeff, and fly tying by regional tiers. Plus factory and boat representatives including TFO, Rio, Sage, Nautilus, Scott, Umpqua, Simms, Ross Reels, Costa Del Mar, and many more. For details, go to www.fishingtackleunlimited.com.  

2020 Calendar reminder

It's that time of year again. Christmas, yeah. Hannukah, yeah. But I'm really talking about our Spring Calendar deadlines.

We post any fly fishing events in Louisiana, and any full-day events outside the state within 7 hours of a population center (eg, Slidell, Lake Charles, Shreveport).  Kayak fishing events in Louisiana only.  If you know of a qualifying event, please check our Calendar page to see if it's listed.  If not, or if the date and location are incorrect, please email me at catch(at)laflyfish(dot)com.

Here are the announced events we're looking most forward to January thru March:

Jan. 18 - Cenla Fly Fishing & Light Tackle Festival, Kees Park, Pineville, LA, www.kisatchiefly.org
Jan. 31-Feb. 1 - Atlanta Fly Fishing Show, Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, GA
Feb. 8 - Dr. Ed Rizzolo Fly Tying Festival, Bethany Church Hall, Houston, TX, www.texasflyfishers.org
Feb. 14-16 - Little Mo Fly Fishing Fest, Murfreesboro, AR, www.littlemissouriflyfishing.com
Feb. 21-23 - Guadalupe River Trout Fest, New Braunfels, TX, www.grtu.org
Mar. 6 - IF4 Film Festival, Orvis Baton Rouge, LA
Mar. 7 - Red Stick Day, Waddill Outdoor Refuge, Baton Rouge, LA, www.rsff.org
Mar. 13-14 - FFI GCC Sweetwater Classic, Percy Quin State Park, McComb, MS, www.gulfcoastcouncilffi.org
Mar. 28 - New Orleans City Park Big Bass Rodeo, New Orleans, LA

There are several other events we expect to be announced late December or early January, mostly kayak fishing tournaments, kayak demo days, and CCA seminars.

We accept event submissions at any time for our calendar. However, event managers know that early announcement leads to better attendance. For this reason, please submit as early as possible.

Special events this week - 12/1

On Thursday, the Orvis store in Baton Rouge will host a VIP event at their store on 7601 Bluebonnet in Perkins-Rowe in Baton Rouge. Time is . Special guest will be nationally-renown fly angler and photographer Brian O'Keefe who will give a presentation on trout fishing. Special in-store discounts, food and refreshents for attendees. RSVP is requested. For more info, call 225-757-7286.

Louisiana outdoors icon passes at age 57

We were very saddened to learn yesterday that Ann Taylor, co-publisher of Louisiana Sportsman magazine, the St. Charles Herald-Guide and other publications, passed away after a courageous bout with pancreatic cancer.

Ann and her husband Tony started the Louisiana Sportsman magazine - the state's largest outdoors publication - roughly four decades ago. She was its editor at the beginning, and most recently, and wrote numerous articles over the years covering her wide range of interests from hunting, fishing, cooking and camping.  A devout Catholic, and native of Houma, she and Tony raised their children to enjoy the outdoors as well.

Louisiana Sportsman eventually became "Sportsman LLC" when it expanded to include North Carolina Sportsman, South Carolina Sportsman, Mississippi Sportsman, and so on.  Each of the offshoot publications copied the LAS formula of a magazine featuring locally-based articles and columns, outdoors news features, specific how-to and where-to information, and probably most important of all, conservation-oriented editorials.

Ann's strong dedication to conservation led Governor Bobby Jinal to appoint her to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission in 2009. She served until 2015. In 2012, the commission elected Ann as chairman of the Commission. 

It was under Ann's guidance that led that Sportsman magazine sought out Pete Cooper, Jr., to begin writing a monthly column on fly fishing. "Fly Lines" was authored by Pete until 1999, and continued again in 2000 when Glen "Catch" Cormier (myself) was asked to be contributor.  Earlier this year, in response to budget cutbacks, the column was moved from printed version to online (website only). I never dealt closely with Ann over these long years, but always admired her dedication to details and making the magazine one of the very best in the outdoors industry.

PnP to host Kirk Dietrich seminar this Saturday

Tying Bugs with Kirk Dietrich
Saturday, November 16, 2019
9:00am to 11:00am
Pack & Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette, LA
FREE event
A Pack & Paddle Adventure Skills Workshop

Kirk Dietrich is a Louisiana fly tying legend. Considered one of the nation's top surface bug craftsman, he specializes in balsa and other hard-bodied flies, but is also the creator of the decades-popular Kirk's Spoon and Kirk's Rattle Rouser. As well as numerous other saltwater and warmwater flies.  Earlier this year, he received the Fly Fishers International - Gulf Coast Council's "Fly Tier of the Year" award for his many contributions, both past and current.

Kirk will be demonstrating some of his key bugs, and how to fish them. He will also speak briefly on the "how to" of fishing these styles of flies.  This seminar is a special opportunity to meet Kirk Dietrich and learn from him in person.  After the class you will also have to opportunity to purchase an autographed copy of his book if you choose. 

Pre-registration is requested so adequate refreshments are provided. For more info, go to www.packpaddle.com.

Fishing legend Jerry McKinnis passes

The creator and host of one of the most popular fishing television shows of all time, Jerry McKinnis, passed away yesterday morning at age 82.  For more than five decades - including 26 years on ESPN - McKinnis could be seen on "The Fishin' Hole" promoting fishing and conservation for the average angler.

After a brief stint in professional baseball, McKinnis moved to Arkansas and began guiding on the White River. He was soon giving fishing reports on a Little Rock TV station.  In 1965, he started filming fishing segments for audiences which soon led to his nationally-syndicated TV show. In 1979, he signed a deal for his show with a new sports network called ESPN. The Fishin Hole TV show was the 2nd longest running show on ESPN, only after Sportscenter.  

At a time when many popular fishing personalities limited themselves to a particular style of fishing, McKinnis had no boundaries. One week viewers might be watching him fish for bluegills, another week for bass, another week for pike. And a few episodes each year, he could be seen fly fishing for trout, bass or panfish, often on his home waters of northern Arkansas. A few of his fly fishing partners included coach Bobby Knight and baseball legend Ted Williams.

McKinnis was both a member of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame. His company, JM Associates, produced a number of popular fishing shows including "The Spanish Fly" with Jose Wejebe, "Orvis Sporting Life" with Rick Ruoff, "The Bass Class" with Denny Brauer, and many others.

Our picks of new products from IFTD 2019

There were a bevy of new products showcased at last week's International Fly Tackle Dealers trade show in Denver, Colorado.  While not as many as the last several years, there were some significant new entries.  Due to the show being much later this year - they broke from their merger with ICAST - many of the new products have already hit stores.  We couldn't make IFTD this year, but thanks to the wonder of the internet - and press releases - we kept our finger on the pulse of things. And identified at least 10 new products we think are worth mentioning to our readers.

Flymen Fishing Company - Shilton Reels Under a new partnership, FFC will distribute South African-made Shilton Reels in the USA for the first time. Trusted by guides worldwide in some of the toughest fishing conditions, Shilton was previously unavailable to the USA market. The reels have a hard anodized finish and depending on series, utilize higher degrees of processed cork disc drag. Expect prices from $300 on up.

Simms - G4 Collection, G4 wading boots If you're looking for premium quality in waders, jackets, and boots, then Simms has their new G4 collection with over 16,000 hours of field testing, lighter materials, greater comfort, durability and breathability, and extremely resistant to abrasion and punctures. Sounds great... but better be prepared for sticker shock. Prices for the jacket and waders range from $699 to $899. The wading boots will sell for $299 and come in Vibram or felt soles. IMO, spending a small fortune on waders is unnecessary, but never skimp on boots. Your feet will thank you later!  If the G4 Pro is as comfortable and durable as advertised, it might pay itself off simply by outlasting other boots twice as long.

Sage Payload fly rod The Sage Bass Series has been replaced for 2019 with the Payload Series. Designed to cast big flies to big fish, these rods feature fast action tips transitioning to a more moderate butt that allows for relaxed casting and greater leverage when fighting big fish. The rods also feature Sage's HD-Konnetic technology.  Series ranges from a 8'9" length in 6 thru 9 weights along with 9'0" in 10 and 11 weights.  MSRP is $550. Blanks are also available.  All Payload rods are made at their factory in Bainbridge Island, Washington.

St Croix Imperial Salt fly rod The new Imperial Salt is an extension of their Imperial series, using Sea Guide (R) PVD coated stripper and snake guides, premium-grade cork handle, and double coats of flexcoat to withstand the rigors of saltwater. They come in a beautiful aquamarine color. The rods use St. Croix's Integrated Poly Curve mandrel technology with SCIII carbon to make for a light, fast-action rod with quick dampening. Built in the USA, these rods come with St. Croix's 15-year transferable warranty backed by their Superstar Service. Models are all 9'0" in length, with weights ranging from 7 thru 12. MSRP is $340 to $370, depending on weight rating.

Taylor Revelation reels For the last several years, Taylor Fly Fishing has become a major player in the direct sales market. The foundation of their business has been their attractive, lightweight and affordable machined fly reels. The new Revelation is a hybrid of their most popular models, the TYPE1, the Enigma, and the Revelation Z.  With a carbon-fiber stacked and sealed drag system, and with up to 15 pounds of maximum drag (7-9 weight model) the Revelation can be used in most freshwater and saltwater situations. That drag is adjustable to 3.5 rotations, allowing anglers to dial in to the exact setting. MSRP is $299.

Fenwick Fenlite Salt fly rod Nano resin technology is only a decade old, and perhaps for that reason it's been reserved to rods costing $600 or more. But in the last year, we've seen the price point dropping. The new Fenlite rods offer the 3M Powerlux 1000 nano resin technology for only $349. What does nano-tech offer? A rod with incredible strength at a very light weight. The fast-action Fenlite Salt comes with AAA cork handle, machined anodized reel seat, and fighting butt.  All lengths are 9-foot, with line weights ranging from 7 thru 12.  Fenwick has a limited lifetime warranty on Fenlite rods for defects, and a service charge for accidental breakage.

Scott Sector fly rod It's hard to imagine that Scott would make a better saltwater fly rod than their Meridian, but that's exactly what their rod designers have supposedly done. The new Sector series utlitizes their ReAct technology with new tapers and their new "Carbon Web". The Carbon Web technology improves torsional stability and durability by encasing the unidirectional fibers in a web of ultralight multidirectional carbon fibers. Uni encased by multi, got it?  According to Scott, this will reduce torsional forces for better tracking and reduce micro factures from stress and impact. Sector rods also feature all new CeRecoil stripping guides with super slick Zirconia inserts. All this great technology comes at a premium price - MSRP is $985.  All Scott rods are made beginning to end at their factory in Montrose, Colorado.

Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity Salt fly line Longtime readers know I'm not a huge fan of textured fly lines, even if they do add a wee more distance to long casts. So while SA has come out with their new Amplitude Infinity Salt textured line for 2020, they've also come out with a smooth version. It features their AST Plus slickness additivie for increased shootability and durability. It's also a half-weight heavy to turn over big flies on windy days. What's best about it is the extended head length... that means more accuracy and aerialization than those short shooting head lines.  Again, cutting edge technology comes a premium price. MSRP is $129.

Douglas LRS fly rod While this rod was actually introduced late last year, this was the first year of it's "new" status at IFTD. Founded in 2014, Douglas rods have been near the top of several reviews, and from personally casting the Sky and DXF series, the hype is real. Sadly, their budget entry was well below the competition. Their new LRS Series hopes to change that. These fast-action, lightweight rods have much improved performance. LRS stands for lake-river-sea, which implies that they're built for all types of fishing, depending on rated weight.  The beautiful gloss blue blanks, carbon matrix reel seat, and accented grip and fighting butt (7-9 models) make for a great looking rod. MSRP is $249.

Fishpond Thunderhead Pouch A fully waterproof construction similiar to other products in their submersible line, Fishpond's Thunderhead Pouch features a 1680D TPU coated nylon fabric and fully waterproof zipper. Large enough to slip in your smartphone or digital camera. Hypalon panels on the front and back can be used for attaching accessories or securing to wading belts, float tubes, or kayaks. Measures 11" long by 7" high by 2.75" deep (maximum expansion). Weight is 5 ounces. MSRP is $99.

Make plans for Toledo Bend Rendezvous

Toledo Bend Rendezvous
November 1-3, 2019
North Toledo Bend State Park
Zwolle, LA

In October, 1989, members of the Pineywoods Fly Fishers (TX) and North Louisiana Fly Fishers (Shreveport) gathered for a weekend of camping, fly tying and fishing. The following year, the clubs rented the group facility at North Toledo Bend State Park, where the event is held to this day.   Rendezvous has expanded greatly since, with tiers from various clubs and states including Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and elsewhere.

There's no planned activities, but plenty of fly tying, food, fly casting and fishing, with only a minimal fee to cover lodging and meals. The activities take place at the park's group facility, which features a commercial kitchen and dining hall, and lodging available for up to 150 people in 5 heated log bunkhouses (30 beds each). There's also a heated central shower and restroom building with nice night lighting on all the sidewalks and a large main log building with A/C, picnic tables and a large barbeque trailer.

Attendees can come for a weekend (lodging and meals included) or just for the day (Saturday). The event is open to the public.  For complete details, go to the Toledo Bend Rendezvous home page.

SweatFest 2019 still going strong, but not for long!

Every year, we claim September is the last full month of SweatFest. Usually there's at least one cool front - usually in the middle of the month - that brings longterm relief from high heat and humidity.  .  The cool front metric is the number of nights where the low temperature is at or below 60 degrees here in central Louisiana. We typically have at least two such nights in September. 

For the second year in a row, by those definitions, we had no "cool fronts" in September. In fact, according to the KSLA-TV (Shreveport) weather center, this past month was the hottest September on record with an average of 83.7 degrees.  The historical average is 78.8 degrees.

Likewise, meteorologist Scott Pilie of WGNO-TV in New Orleans posted on Facebook that this September was the hottest on record for the Crescent City with an average of 85.3 degrees.  It was also the driest on record with total precipitation of 0.19 inches!

While radiative cooling - due to shorter days and longer nights - has slightly reduced water temperatures, it hasn't been enough to reoxygenate waters. Low dissolved oxygen is the main reason why freshwater fishing - outside of river systems - continues to be subpar. Cooler water temperatures are also the trigger for mass migration of speckled trout into coastal marshes.

The good news is that SweatFest may come to an end next Monday... at least over most of the state. Here in the Alexandria area the forecast calls for highs Monday and Tuesday in the low 80s and lows in the upper 50s! 

The bad news is that we're going to have some unusually hot next few days before the front, with near-record highs. If you're fishing the Rio Rodeo in New Orleans this Saturday, best bring an extra bottle of water or sports drink.

Reminder that Rio Rodeo returns October 5th

11th annual Rio Grande Rodeo
Saturday, October 5th, 2019
7:00am to 8:00am - on site registration
8:00am to 12:00pm - fishing
12:00pm - weigh-in deadline
$10 entry fee, includes lunch and refreshments

Sponsored by the New Orleans Fly Fishers Club, the Rio Rodeo is now into it’s second decade,  bigger and better than ever! This tournament is fly fishing only for the elusive Rio Grande Cichlid.  All entry fish must be caught on artificial flies.  It's open to the public.  All proceeds go to Casting for Recovery.  

Onsite registration and weigh-in will be at the intersection of Henry Thomas Drive and Celebration Drive (under the oak trees across from the Blue Rose art sculpture). Look for the NOFF sign and tent.

Two categories will be awarded:

-  Longest rio wins top prize and bragging rights for the year.
-  Most rios caught by a fly fisher takes first prize in the second category.

The Rio Grande Perch is native to south Texas and northeast Mexico, making it America’s only native cichlid.  During the 1990s, it began appearing in waterways in Orleans, Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes, likely the result of aquarium dumpings.  Since rios are more cold-tolerant than other cichlids, most are able to survive the mild winters of southeast Louisiana. 

Rios make excellent fly fishing quarry on light tackle. While not the greatest fighters, they can get up to 2 pounds and “fight like a wet cat”.  They are also very wary, making presentation and choice of fly critical.

For complete details, go to www.neworleansflyfishers.com.

Saturday is National Hunting and Fishing Day

National Hunting and Fishing Day
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Venues: Baton Rouge, Minden, Woodworth, Monroe
Free admission!

Established by Congress in 1972, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrated the 4th Saturday of September. The day recognizes the contributions of America's hunters, anglers, and other outdoors enthusiasts. 

Here in Louisiana, NHF Day is celebrated annually at four venues - Bodcau (Minden), Monroe, Waddill (Baton Rouge), and Woodworth. Activities including archery, canoeing, fishery, target shooting, outdoor games, live animal exhibits, educational displays, and more. Many of the activities are geared towards youth and family, and there's even food and soft drinks provided at no cost.

The Waddill, Bodcau and Woodworth venues will feature fly fishing, casting and tying thanks to the Red Stick Fly Fishers, North Louisiana Fly Fishers and Kistachie Fly Fishers, respectively. Each of these clubs will demonstrate and give hands-on teaching of tying and casting. As well as talk about fly fishing opportunities in Louisiana and elsewhere.

Admission to each venue is free for all ages. Time varies depending on location, but all start between 8:00am to 9:00am and end between 1:30pm and 2:00pm. For more details, go to www.wlf.louisiana.gov.

Brendan Bayard wins 2019 IFA Kayak Championship

The Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) Kayak Tour is the largest national saltwater kayak fishing series, incorporating five divisions across south Atlantic and Gulf waters. These tournaments are CPR (catch-photo-release) on IFA approved measuring boards, which allows for any sized fish to be entered.

Qualifiers from each division then compete in the national championship, which was held this past Friday and Saturday out of Bridgeside Marina on Grand Isle.

Many of the biggest names in saltwater kayak fishing compete in this event each year, and one of those familiar names is Brendan Bayard of Baton Rouge, whose line of trophies probably requires it's own building!  Brendan is also a longtime kayak fishing field reporter on the "Outdoors with Don Dubuc" weekly radio show (Saturday mornings 5:00am to 7:00am).

Yesterday, Brendan pulled off another win. His two-day total of two redfish and two speckled trout measured out to an aggregate of 121.75 inches!  His longest redfish were 41.25 and 40.00 inches, his longest specks were 23.00 and 17.50 inches. He edged out Justin Rienerth of North Carolina, whose total length was 119.00 inches was anchored by a 43.00 inch red.

Other Louisiana finishers in the top 8 (received prize money) were: Matt Carr (5th), Lance Burgos (6th), Terry Pham (7th), and Scott Bienvenu (8th).  Terry lost out on a big speck that got sharked. Other anglers reported losing some nice fish as well. Even so, 22 of the competitors had four-fish total aggregates of over 100 inches!