Hurricane Ida aftermath: long road to recovery

This past Sunday, Hurricane Ida made landfall near Port Fourchon, Louisiana, with sustained winds of 150 mph, and reported gusts as high as 172 mph. As such, it tied last year’s Hurricane Laura which hit Cameron, Louisiana, as the second most intense storm to hit the state, only behind Hurricane Katrina. And the 5th most intense storm to ever hit the United States.

Over the next 24 hours, Ida moved slowly northward bringing destruction in the form of wind damage, tidal surges, and flash flooding to parts of southeast Louisiana, southern Mississippi and even as far east as the Alabama coast. Over one million homes and businesses were without electricity, and an estimated $15 billion in property damage.

Depending on location, it will take weeks to months, but we’ll build back and hopefully, better.  And when we’re done building back, we’ll want to turn our attention to things we enjoy the most, like fishing. Except there may not be much to offer there. 

It'll take a couple weeks to determine if Ida - like Hurricanes Andrew and Gustav which followed a similiar course - have triggered massive fish kills across south central and southeast Louisiana.  Major hurricanes cause hypoxia in waters by a combination of wind-stirred organics, litterfall (leaves stripped from trees that consume oxygen upon decay), and backwater flooding. When the water recedes, it’s often dark tannic and with zero oxygen. Water temperatures in August are simply too high to overcome litterfall like they are in October and November. Fish require at least 2.0 mg/L oxygen. After Gustav, it was rare to find any water greater than 1.0 mg/L.

While hurricane-generated fish kills in saltwater are extremely rare, the problem for salt anglers will be infrastructure. Just about everything past a protection levee was damaged or destroyed, including stores, motels, bait shops… even the roads themselves.  The photos of Leeville above - before and after Ida - are typical of what happened to other coastal communities outside the protection levees.  Many business owners have already indicated they will not rebuild.

Events cancelled due to Covid concerns

With the recent spike in the number of Coronavirus cases, and in an effort to insure the safe health of all involved, a number of clubs, FFI councils, and other groups and agencies have cancelled events scheduled for the next few months.  Some of these had been rescheduled from early Spring due to the last spike in January.. They will next be held on their traditional dates in 2022.

In addition, several club meetings are on hold until further notice. However, those clubs using Zoom will continue to meet online.

* Note: the FFI Gulf Coast Council has a Zoom Pro account available to their member clubs for their use. Assistance is also available. *

Here is a rundown of cancelled 2021 Fall events, and tentative 2022 dates.

• Gulf Coast Sweetwater Classic – hosted by the FFI Gulf Coast Council. Next date: March 11-12, 2022.
• FFI Southern Fly Fishing Fair – hosted by FFI Southern Council. Next date: September 29-October 1, 2022 (tentative).
• Florida Fly Fishing Expo – hosted by FFI Florida Council. Next date: Spring 2022.
• National Hunting & Fishing Day – hosted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at four venues across the state, the 4th Saturday in September. Next date: September 24, 2022.
• Rio Grande Fly Fishing Rodeo – hosted by the New Orleans Fly Fishers. Next date: October 1, 2022.
• Red Stick Day – fly fishing festival hosted by Red Stick Fly Fishers of Baton Rouge. Next date: Saturday, March 5, 2022.
• Toledo Bend Rendezvous – public weekend retreat for fly tiers set for first weekend in November. Cancelation pending no cancel fee. Next date: November 4-6, 2022.

One event that will not be cancelled is the Fly Fishers International Virtual Expo. While official dates are November 5-7, there are a number of workshops, auctions, and other activities tied to the Expo occurring in the weeks ahead. For complete schedule, go to www.flyfishersinternational.org/Virtual-Expo/Activities

Toledo Bend Rendezvous returns Nov. 5-7

Toledo Bend Rendezvous
Friday-Sunday, November 5-7, 2021
North Toledo Bend State Park, Zwolle, LA

After cancellation last year due to Covid-19 protocols, Rendezvous is back.  The announcement was made recently by event organizer Walter McLendan.  What  is Rendezvous?  For 32 years each Fall,  fly tiers and other fly fishing enthusiasts from across several states – along with their families – gather for a weekend of fly tying, fly casting, food and fishing. With only a minimal fee to cover lodging and meals. The event is open to everyone.

The excellent facilities at North Toledo Bend State Park are ideal for a Fall weekend fly tying retreat. 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.

Rendezvous continues to be a gathering for some of the top fly tiers in the country, most of whom have been featured at regional and national expos.  There are no organized activities.  Whether you come to tie, or come to watch and learn, or just partake the great scenery, fishing and on-the-water location, you’ll be glad you came!

The FFI Gulf Coast and Texas Councils, along along with several member clubs, are co-sponsors of this event, and make it possible for attendees to enjoy a low lodging rate.

Fees (family or individual are the same):

• $40 for weekend, includes lodging and meals
• $20 one night, includes lodging and meals
• $10 just for the day

For more info, go to http://flycasting.bravesites.com

2021 Legislative Summary: one big win, one big loss

Yesterday the 2021 Louisiana Legislative session came to an end. And so did any hopes of passing HB535, the bill to create a nearshore exclusion zone for menhaden harvest along the coast.

As mentioned previously, the House rejected the Senate amendments and subsequently, a conference committee was formed to work out a compromise. Among the six legislators in that group was Bob Hengens, the Senate Natural Resources Committee Chairman that worked to derail the bill. With only hours to work out differences, the group was unable to reach agreement before the session ended.

Commercial fishing interests also fought hard to derail HB691, a bill to restructure fishing and hunting licenses and fees, and in most cases, bring them up to the Southern average. That bill needed a two-thirds vote of both House and Senate to ratify several amendments made in each chamber, but it did so with only hours to go. Expect Governor Edwards to sign this bill into law. This bill was greatly needed to help defray LDWF budget deficits as the result of loss of oil and gas revenues, and without having an increase in 20 years, the cost of inflation.

The fight to create an exclusion zone for menhaden is far from over just because of one defeat. Public sentiment and science are too strong to let this continue. What action will be taken next remains to be seen.

Free Fishing Days, 2021-22 licenses now available

Each year, wildlife agencies in each state designate "Free Fishing Days" for the public to fish recreationally in public waters without a fishing license. These events are part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs June 5-13, 2021.

This year, Louisiana's free fishing days are Saturday and Sunday, June 12 & 13.

It should be noted that while there is no cost (license) required to fish on these days, certain species or types of fishing may still require a permit. For example, a Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP) is required to possess tunas, billfish, swordfish, amberjacks, groupers, snappers, hinds, cobia, wahoo, and dolphinfish in Louisiana waters. 

Speaking of licenses... Louisiana annual fishing licenses for 2020-2021 expire June 30th at midnight, after which you'll need a 2021-2022 license. The new licenses became available on June 1st, and are good from the time of purchase thru June 30 of 2022.

Licenses can be purchased online at https://la-web.s3licensing.com, or at local license vendors.   Acceptable online methods of payment are Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

Bissett named new AFFTA Executive Director

This past Thursday, the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) announced Capt. Lucas Bissett of Slidell, Louisiana, as their new Executive Director. Lucas has been an AFFTA board member for the past four years, the last three as a member of the executive committee.

Lucas is owner of Lowtide Charters, a fly fishing guide service operating south of New Orleans. He graduated from University of South Florida in 2003 before moving back to his home state to pursue fly fishing guided business. He has been a champion of coastal conservation, including founding the Black Mangrove Project in St. Bernard Parish, which was featured in a award-winning documentary as well as several magazine articles and podcasts.

AFFTA Board Chair Jim Bartschi stated "“As a fellow member of the executive committee and AFFTA’s Vice Chair, Lucas has helped to shape the vision of AFFTA. As the Executive Director, he’ll be implementing that vision.".

Chris Wood, CEO of Trout Unlimited and AFFTA Board member added: “Lucas has the passion, focus, and commitment to take AFFTA to another level. All of us who fly fish should be grateful to have such a knowledgeable and energetic leader at the helm of a trade association that punches far above its weight.".

We congratulate Lucas on his appointment and wish him the best of success in years to come.

Fly Fishing Film Tour coming to Lafayette

2021 F3T & Fly Fishing Hangout
Saturday, June 19, 2021
Pack & Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette, LA
3:00pm - Hangout activities
5:30pm - Films start
$20 tickets, limited to 40 seats

The 15th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) will be making a stop at Pack & Paddle in Lafayette on Saturday, June 19th.  In conjunction with F3T, 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 featuring great adventures, epics takes, and spectacular scenery.  F3T is shown at select venues across the country.

This is sure to be a great chance to see some folks you haven't seen during this long pandemic year. The Fly Fishing Hangout starts at 3:00pm, with beer and snacks, and games. The games include "Marshman Sharpshooter" casting to targets, and Team Iron Fly competition, where random-selected teams build a 5-step fly out of unique materials. Each team will have 40 minutes to tie their fly.

The $20 tickets are available locally in advance at Pack & Paddle or online at www.packpaddle.com.

HB535 postponed to Tuesday, June 1st

The Senate Natural Resources Committee did not get to consider a bill to create a buffer zone for the industrial take of menhaden yesterday as planned, due to the full Senate session running very late. Instead, House Bill 535 will be considered by the committee on June 1st at 9:00am. We strongly urge our readers to reach out to the following committee members individually and urge them to vote YES for HB535.

• Bob Hensgens (Chairman) - sen26@legis.la.gov
• Mike Fensi - sen20@legis.la.gov
• Bret Allain - allainb@legis.la.gov
• Joe Bouie - bouiej@legis.la.gov
• Pat Connick - connickp@legis.la.gov
• Eddie Lambert - lamberte@legis.la.gov
• Sharon Hewitt - hewitts@legis.la.gov

Key fisheries bills up in Senate committee this week

Earlier this month, two of the biggest fisheries-related bills of the 2021 legislative session cleared the hurdles of the House Natural Resources Committee and the full House floor vote.  Come this Thursday, they face perhaps the last obstacle when they get heard by the Senate Natural Resources Committee.

If passed by the Committee, they would then go on to the full Senate for a floor vote. Then if passed there, it's on to the governor's signature to become law.  As of now, each faces a tough task in committee. But if they pass committee, chances are very good they become law.

HB535 - Provides relative to the geographic location for the taking of menhaden (we STRONGLY SUPPORT)

This provides a 1/2-mile shoreline buffer for the commercial taking of menhaden, with a few extended zones such as Grand Isle (3-mile). While the bill has been championed by several conservation organizations, including FFI Gulf Coast Council, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and others, CCA Louisiana has led the biggest effort. It would seem this is a no-brainer, especially given that Louisiana is one of the few states that allows menhaden harvest, and the only state that doesn't have a buffer zone. However, the menhaden industry has been lobbying state senators very hard.

HB691 - Provides relative to fee increases for the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (since amended, we STRONGLY SUPPORT)

This bill would provide the first system increase of fishing and hunting licenses in 20 years.  It would also simplify the number and extent of current licenses. The fee increases are needed as revenue shortfalls from LDWF-owned oil and gas continue to decline, and current fees are way insufficient. In addition, Louisiana is missing out on millions in matching revenue from federal excise taxes. One example of how outdated Louisiana licenses are... the resident senior hunt/fish combo is just $5. This bill raises it to $20.  By contrast, the same Texas license is $32.  Negative responses to this increase have been similiar to this "Only wealthy retirees will be able to afford this license".  I kid you not!  Since being amended on the House floor to delete kayak registration and reduce lifetime licenses, the bill has collected more support. But will it be enough to overcome a strong anti-increase sentiment among folks who really don't care about our wildlife other than how much they can take?  We'll see.

Louisiana CCA STAR tournament kicks off Saturday

The Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) of Louisiana Statewide Tournament and Angler's Rodeo (STAR) kicks off Saturday, May 29th and runs through Labor Day. One of the largest and richest saltwater fishing tournaments in the country, offering over $500,000 in prizes, STAR is open to anglers of every age. Entry fee is $35 for CCA members.

Again this year, there is a Fly Division and a Kayak Division. Within the Fly Division, there are two (2) regional divisions, East and West. The winner of each division gets a $1,500 gift card to Academy Sports. The Kayak Division has four (4) regional divisions, East, Southeast, Southwest, West. The winner of each division gets a Hobie Compass kayak. And of course, there's always the chance that a fly or kayak angler will catch a tagged redfish. The first tagged fish wins a Chevy Silverado, the 2nd one wins a Keystone Passport travel trailer, and the next 8 win fully rigged boats.

Getting back to the Fly Division. As we state every year, the best time for catching that big trout on fly is early in the contest - the month of June to be exact. One exception: the Southwest Division usually runs several weeks behind due to the influence of high river water from the Atchafalaya River.  

To register for CCA STAR, and for current leaderboard standings, go to www.ccastar.com.

Menhaden bill to be introduced into House

On Wednesday, at 9:00am, the Louisiana House Natural Resources Committee will convene. On the agenda is House Bill 535, by Rep. Joe Orgeron of Golden Meadow.  HB535 would create a 1/2-mile exclusion zone for the commercial reduction harvest of menhaden (pogy). 

CCA Louisiana, the FFI Gulf Coast Council, Louisiana Charterboat Association, and several other groups support passage of the bill. Currently, Louisiana is one of only three states that allow reduction harvest within state waters, and the only state without a buffer zone.  For more info, go to www.ffigcc.org . 

Register this month for the Jack Rodeo

2nd annual HOSSFly Jack Rodeo
Dates: June 1 – October 1, 2021
Species: Jack Crevalle
Waters: AL, FL, LA and MS Gulf Coast

Entry fee: Free for HOSSFly members, $25 for non-members (includes HOSSFly membership).
Deadline for registration: May 31st

Fly anglers hate jack crevalle.  Hook one, and it wants to take your fly line and backing to Cuba.  And just when you stop him from going outward, comes the long haul back in.  Like towing a boat… using a bicycle!

Well here’s your chance to show Jack whose boss, and get awarded for it.  Hosted by the Historic Ocean Springs Saltwater (HOSS) Fly Fishing Club, the Jack Rodeo is a CPR tournament open to the public, including Louisiana flyfishers.  Simply catch and land a jack crevalle on fly and fly tackle (that will be the hardest part for sure!). Then take a photo of the fish on a measuring device with fly fishing gear in the scene. Submit the photo, along with documentation, to David Buckner (email on form).

The tournament is catch and release unless a state record is caught. Winners will be announced at the HOSSFly meeting on October 12th.

Click here to download the Jack Rodeo Rules and Registration Form.

When given lemons, make lemonade!

That seems to be the philosophy lately with a lot of frustrated fly anglers. April weather has not been kind to us: lots of rain, high water, dirty water, and even below normal temperatures in areas north of Highway 190 have the fish in a funk.

For fly tiers, it's been a tough past year despite lots of free time to tie flies. Shortages of materials, and delivery times that would make Pony Express seem like an improvement. But for those with materials on hand, a vast number of Zoom and YouTube Live sessions offer opportunities to tie new patterns.

For example, the Kisatchie Fly Fishers biweekly "Virtual Tying Tuesday" sessions are recorded on YouTube.  Simply go to their YT Channel at http://bit.ly/3oBk106 .  Among the patterns you'll find are:  Lefty's Deceiver, Seaducer, Johnson's Ozark Craw, Bluegill Belly Bean, Rio Bandito, Squirmy, Christmas Tree, Frenchie, and many more.

2021 Legislative Session fishing-related bills

April brings some of the best fishing of the year, both freshwater and inshore saltwater.  And while we're enjoying the great bounty of the "Sportsmans Paradise", the Louisiana Legislative session kicks off.  The actions of our elected representatives and senators continue to determine how long we'll enjoy this paradise.

This year's session convenes on April 12th.  As each year, we look at some of the key bills that have been pre-filed and explain why we support or reject each bill. And like every year, there is that ONE BILL that conservationists are most concerned about, and 2021 is no different.

HB535 - Provides relative to the geographic location for the taking of menhaden.
SUPPORT - This is the major fisheries bill of 2021... and the consequence of the LWF Commission failing to undertake their obligation. It creates a menhaden fishing exclusion zone extending from the Texas to Mississippi borders, and one half-mile seaward from land. As presented to the Commission last October, there have been countless reports of dead spawning-size redfish - and other fish and mammals - as the result of nearshore bycatch. Furthermore, it was stated that menhaden are the primary food source for most recreational gamefish.  Louisiana is the ONLY coastal state that does not have an exclusion zone.  This bill is facing considerable opposition from the Chairperson of the LWF Commission as well as the menhaden industry.

HB226 - Provides relative to the process by which the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission can change the daily take, possession, and size limits of certain fish in Lake D'Arbonne.  
SUPPORT - Lake D'Arbonne crappie enthusiasts have seen a decline in this species on the lake due to it's popularity. Recent science shows that, unlike heritage studies, crappie can be overfished. In fact, Louisiana's crappie limits are "no size limit, 50 per day", by far the most liberal of any state. Current law requires that any changes to fish limits first be investigated by LDWF biologists, and a negative report filed with the Commission. This process can take up to 2 years, not to mention the very concept that a "negative impact" be needed to manage any fishery flies in the face of modern fisheries management and optimum yield.  While we strongly support the wishes of D'Arbonne residents to have a conservation-oriented limit on their lake, if passed this bill could lead to regional-based limits based on biomass capacity of regional waters (as in most states).

HB655 - Provides for removal of criminal penalties and reclassifies certain wildlife violations and provides for enforcement and recovery of civil fines by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
OPPOSE - The bill basically eliminates all jail time (imprisonment) as part of the penalties and makes all game violations punishable by civil fines only. While we believe eliminating jail time in lower class violations is a good idea, there are certain violations that deserve a severe penalty. We hope this bill will be amended.

HB??? - Possible bill to increase recreational fishing license fees.
SUPPORT - This bill has been discussed openly, but not pre-filed. Louisiana is missing out on millions of federal dollars from the Wallop-Breaux excise tax, due to a change in the formula during the Obama Administration. Louisiana needs to restructure it's licensing, and having the lowest basic resident fishing fees of any state, is starving our Wildlife and Fisheries of the financial support it needs.  The funds from WBF are not just lost to our state, they end up going to other states, like California. It's like losing football recruits to Alabama, and paying for their tuition on top of that! If and when this bill is introduced, we'll provide an update on details.

Introducing the Jiggybee

For the past few months, we've heard about a great new fly from our good friend, Randy Leonpacher. It's called the "Jiggybee"...which he refers to as a cousin to his world famous Jitterbee. It's been a killer pattern for all types of panfish, from bluegill to crappie.

Randy will lead the Red Stick Fly Fishers in tying the Jiggybee on Monday, March 22nd at 7:00pm. The session will be viewable to the public on the FFI Gulf Coast Council YouTube Channel.

Randy explains the background to his new fly:

It was one of those stay-at-home, hot, mid-summer 2020 Covid-19 days.  So I decided it was a good time to tie a few flies.  I had acquired by purchase or trade an assortment of non-conventional craft, fabric & hobby store fly tying materials, great stuff for experimentation.   Naturally, I thought why not come up with a variation on the Jitterbee.  The new “cousin” would be jig-like and more “frizzy” than the Jitterbee.  Jig-like and frizzy have proven to be favorable factors attributing to the success of several flies.

I tied the first pass version fly onto my 3-4 weight when finished, ready for the next fishing trip.  It remained untested and unproven until an opportunity arose for trial in an October 2020 Lake Concordia trip.  The fly worked great during that trip, easily proving itself worthy for space in the fly box arsenal.  Although it has a couple of Jitterbee like features, there are enough differences to justify a “tweak” to the name.  So we decided to call it a “jiggybee”. 

March - a month of transition

Depending on where you fish, this month will either be gangbusters early or very late or even subpar from now through summer. Let's explain.

Last summer, hurricanes Laura and Delta wreaked havoc on southwest Louisiana causing massive damage to property and natural resources. There was a serious saltwater fish kill in the Calcasieu estuary, and a massive freshwater fish kill in the Calcasieu River, Bundicks Lake, several smaller lakes such as Fullerton, and in the Laccasine marsh. Fortunately, waters further east were spared.

Then in February, we had the Great Winter Storm of 2021. North and Central Louisiana got hit with record cold temperatures and heavy accumulations of snow and ice. Many areas were below freezing for 72 hours or more.  Water temperatures plummeted from the low 60s into the upper 40s and have yet to return to normal for this time of year.

Fortunately, there were only a few minor fish kills reported from the freeze. Nothing close to what happened in Christmas week of 1989.  However, those few kills occurred in the Black Lake area of the Calcasieu estuary. An area already hit hard by the hurricanes.

As a result, we have seen reports of fantastic fishing - fresh and salt - along all of southeast Louisiana. Better areas include Black Bayou, Manchac, Lake Verret, Lake Boeuf, Delacroix, Golden Meadow, Pointe-aux-Chenes, Port Sulphur, and parts of the Atchafalaya Basin. Top catches have been for speckled trout, sacalait (crappie) and pre-spawning bass. Sheepshead and redfish have also been very good to flyrodders.

Conversely, reports from central and northern parishes and southwest parishes have been slow. Crappie are still deep and bass have not yet moved to the shallows. Toledo Bend seems to be the exception, where some great catches have come in the last week out of the popular Blue Hole area. If you go there, make sure it's a weekday and get there before the armada of boats show up!

Of course, March is a transitional month. Freshwater fishing will only get better as the month goes along.  That includes all areas of the state. Despite the cold waters nows, it's very possible we'll see bream bedding up in the next 2-3 weeks. Remember that the biggest bream of the year - bluegills and redear sunfish - are early spawners.  They often bed a little deeper than the late Spring fish, so plan on having several weighted flies in your box.

Meanwhile, if you're looking for deep marsh action on speckled trout, now is the time.  That action will subside as we approach April and the fish move into the bays and lower estuaries to begin their spawning ritual.

Louisiana - a winter wonderland!

The coldest outbreak since Christmas week of 1989 has socked Louisiana and Texas with record low temperatures and combinations of snow, ice and freezing rain. Snow pack this morning ranges across western and north Louisiana in varying amounts, with Monroe getting nearly 5 inches! Sleetstorms with thunder and lightning were reported across parts of southeast Louisiana as far south as Houma.

The record cold is expected to continue through the week, with another chance of snow/sleet forecast for Tuesday night and again on Wednesday night through Thursday morning. Low temperatures will hit single digits across northern parishes, with high temperatures slightly below or slightly above freezing.

There are numerous concerns about impacts on marsh fishing. The 1989 arctic plunge resulted in massive fish kills of redfish and speckled trout, along with other inshore species. While some kills are anticipated, it probably won't be nearly as bad. First, the 1989 event took place when water temperatures were still mild and many fish were still in shallow water. Most fish were trapped and unprepared phyisologically for the traumatic change. This event comes late in the season when fish have moved to deeper water and become adjusted to cold water.

Freshwater impacts. While fish kills are extremely rare due to cold weather, there will be a negative impact. Sacalait (crappie) and bass were making their pre-spawn movements as water temperatures were moving into the 60s. As of Sunday afternoon, water temperatures at Cotile Lake were in the 40s up to 10 feet deep! With another week of very cold weather ahead, it could be as late as April in some parishes before we see bass spawning.

Coldwater fisheries. For Louisiana fly anglers who frequent the tailwaters of Oklahoma and Arkansas for trout (rainbows, browns and others), great news. Oklahoma and Arkansas will have seen considerable amounts of snow, along with extremely cold nights and wind chill effects. That means the deepwater reservoirs will supply tailwater streams with cold, highly-oxygenated water well into late summer. Should be a banner year for trout fishing!

Bundick Lake restocked from hurricane kills

One of southwest Louisiana's most popular fly fishing reservoirs, Bundick Lake, was restocked recently with more than 40,000 fish. This effort was to help rejuvenate the fishery following Hurricanes Laura and Delta last Fall. 

The lake took a direct hit from Laura, causing a high volume of organic debris to be blown into the lake. The decomposition of organics, along with high water temperatures, caused dissolved oxygen concentrations to fall below critical levels. Resulting in a massive fish kill.

Among the species stocked are: 1,200 pure-strain Florida largemouth bass, 22,000 bluegill, 8,000 redear sunfish, 10,500 white crappie, and 50 pounds of threadfish shad. The fish were supplied by the LDWF freshwater hatcheries.

The Bundicks watershed has slightly higher alkalinity than most western Louisiana waters. For this reason, it supports slightly higher fish populations and growth rates.

Hatchery Manager Kristi Butler is optimistic. "Based on preliminary sampling results, predator densities and competition for food are low. These factors, combined with the sizes and genetics of the bass we are stocking, will result in a very high success rate".

Bundick has been a popular destination for southwest Louisiana fly anglers seeking chunky redears and large crappie. The lake's countless submerged stumps, and grassy shorelines, sandy bottoms were ideal habitat for both species. Louisiana Outdoors Hall of Fame fly angler Pete Cooper, Jr., spent several years routinely fishing the lower end of the lake for crappie during late winter and early Spring.

Online tying sessions expanded

With COVID-19 restrictions still in place - and likely for the next several months - Louisiana fly fishing clubs will continue to hold their routine fly tying sessions online.  Since last April, the Kisatchie Fly Fishers - and later, the Acadiana Fly Rodders - have been conducting "Virtual Tying Tuesday" via the Zoom meeting application. Then, in December the Red Stick Fly Fishers hosted a club meeting using Zoom under the hosting of the FFI Gulf Coast Council  (owners of a pro Zoom account). 

In 2020, Virtual Tying Tuesday was only available to club members and only using Zoom. The Pro account restriction of 100 users per session was one impediment to general public broadcast.  But the greater impediment was bandwidth.  Over 50 "live" users results in some degradation.  It's a problem that Zoom has had since it's explosion in popularity the past year, and an issue they are working hard to improve. 

In December, KFF went to simulcasting VTT on YouTube.  Live streaming to the Tube allows for unlimited number of participants, and the greater bandwidth of their mature platform results in better video quality. In addition, YouTube live streams can be "cast" to smart televisions (those connected to internet).  Watching fly tying on a 48" TV in high definition is a blast! 

Equally important, YouTube sessions are recorded. Late for a session? No problemento!  Just drag the red dot on the video timeline to the far left and start from the beginning.  If you miss it all together, the video is usually available for 48 hours after the session. 

Starting this Monday, Red Stick will hold their monthly fly tying sessions on Zoom for "active" participants with live-streaming to YT for "casual" participants.  Kisatchie and Acadiana will be continuing their live-streaming as well, when they resume Virtual Tying Tuesday on February 2nd. Check their websites for links to the tying sessions.

• www.rsff.org
• www.kisatchiefly.org
• www.acadianaflyrodders.org

Rainbeaux trout stockings going statewide this week

Back on December 17th, rainbow trout were stocked in four park ponds in East Baton Rouge Parish (Perkins, Forest, Greenwood, North Sherwood Forest) and one in Ascension (Lamar-Dixon).  These ponds were stocked by local recreational agencies.

This week, sixteen more ponds statewide will be stocked with this coldwater species as part of Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries "Get Out and Fish!" community fishing program. Stocking begins on Thursday, January 14th.

Here is a listing of ponds to be stocked:
- Oil Park, Jennings
- Burbank Park, Baton Rouge
- Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton
- Grambling City Park, Grambling
- Zemurray Park, Hammond
- Bayou Country Park, Houma
- Girard Park, Lafayette
- Turners Pond, Minden
- Parc Natchitoches, Natchitoches
- Joe Brown Park, New Orleans
- Fort Randolph State Historic Site, Pineville
- Purple Heart Memorial Park, Ragley
- Elmore Mayfield Park, Ruston
- William Polk Park, Vidalia
- Sidney Hutchinson Park, Walker
- Southside Regional Park, Youngsville

Kiroli Park in West Monroe is the only GOAF program pond not to be stocked this year.  That is due to park maintenance in progress.

All anglers ages 16 and older must possess a Louisiana fishing license. While there is no legal daily limit, anglers are encouraged to keep four (4) fish per day and release the rest.

Rainbow trout are native to rivers and lakes in western North America, but have been stocked in coldwater environments across America and the globe. In winter, several states stock in community ponds to give anglers an opportunity to catch an active fish when warmwater species are mostly dormant. These fish die off once water temperatures exceed 70 degrees. In Louisiana, depending on pond location and depth, that could be anytime between mid-March and mid-April.  However, few if any trout remain in these ponds by March 1st. 

2021 fly fishing calendar - updates

In a normal year, by December 15th we've put together a complete calendar of  fly fishing and kayak fishing events for the coming year.  Well 2020 was not a normal year.  In fact, if 2020 were a house, we'd burn down the house, scoop up the ashes, then burn the ashes, and bury what was left in a sealed container deep beneath the ground!

The continuing pandemic has resulted in an almost complete cancellations of activities for the first half of 2021.  Here's a brief summary of regional events with intended dates in parenthesis:

• New Orleans Fly Fishing Expo (Jan. 23) - cancelled
• Atlanta Fly Fishing Show (Feb. 5-6) - cancelled
• Dr. Ed Rizzolo Fly Tying Festival (Feb. 13) - cancelled
• FFI Gulf Coast Sweetwater Classic (Feb. 26-27) - postponed to Sept. 17-18
• Red Stick Day conclave (Mar. 6) - postponed to Fall TBA
• Kisatchie Fly Fishers Fly Fish 101 (April) - postponed to Fall TBA
• Sowbug Roundup (May) - cancelled

In addition, club meetings are continuing on Zoom.  Some club trips are still scheduled, but the majority have been cancelled until Fall.   Check with your local club to see what trips, if any, are taking place this year.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year!

Here's wishing our members and friends, and all of their families, a most blessed holiday season. Hope everyone finds something under the Christmas tree they can use for their piscatorial pursuits in the coming year.

We also wish everyone a prosperous and healthy 2021.  With much emphasis on healthy!  Hopefully, this time next year things will be back to normal, and we can enjoy the company of others and celebrate as we have in the past.

While Christmas is a season of festivity, let's not forget the reason for the season: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us….” John 1:14. Please be giving to those in need, and pray for those who are less fortunate, for those in suffering, and for those away from their families this season - especially our troops. Love and peace to everyone!

LWF Commission declines action on menhaden restrictions

For the second time in three months, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission opted to punt rather than deal directly with a growing conservation issue related to coastal fisheries.

At their November 5th meeting, the LWFC was to consider a motion of intent to create a exclusion zone for menhaden fishing. Pogey boats would have to fish outside one mile of the coastline, in an effort to limit the bycatch of recreational species common within one mile, and avoid user group conflicts. Louisiana is the only coastal state that does not have an exclusion zone.

Instead, the Commission voted to adopt a motion to extend a “gentleman’s agreement” on exclusion zones within areas where shoreline recreational fishing was most common. That would basically be Grand Isle, Elmer’s Isle, and Holly Beach. Currently such an agreement exists with the town of Grand Isle. However it was pointed out in the meeting that this has been broken numerous times by certain vessels – and there are no penalties for doing so.

While supporters of the proposal brought forth evidence for an MFED, commissioners were swayed by arguments from Omega Corporation, the state’s only menhaden producer, that LDWF studies showed very little bycatch – only 2 percent of redfish and speckled trout. Even though those studies were decades old.  Basis for an MFED in other states might've helped, but that was never brought to discussion.

Back in September, the Commission voted to delay action on reducing speckled trout limits from 25 to 15, with an increase in minimum size from 12″ to 13″. Instead, they opted for yet another study on seatrout recruitment with results to be presented at the LWFC October 2021 meeting.

LWFC to hear proposal for menhaden restrictions

This Thursday, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission will consider a notice of intent to establish an exclusion zone for commercial menhaden fishing at their monthly meeting in Baton Rouge. Meeting time is 9:30am.

Agenda Item #9 proposed by Commissioner Chad Courville will include supplemental information presented by Jason Adriance, Marine Fisheries Biologist. The proposal being put forth is a one-mile exclusion zone for commercial harvesting from the Louisiana coastline.

These small, oily baitfish are of significant importance to anglers,  because they’re an essential food source for most gamefish in the Gulf and Atlantic waters, as well as whales, dolphins, and other marine species. They’re also a highly valuable commercial species. Billions of menhaden each year are processed into fish oil, fish meal, fertilizers, cosmetics and other products.

In recent years, menhaden harvest has increased and created conflicts with recreational anglers, as well as put gamefish species at risk. Thousands of spawning size red drum each year are killed as a result of bycatch. And according to some researchers, the nearshore harvest of menhaden may be responsible for a decrease in the total biomass of red drum and spotted seatrout - as much as fifty percent!

While a one-mile zone is certainly better than the status quo, the FFI Gulf Coast Council is lobbying for extension to 2 miles. The reason is that large numbers of nearshore spotted seatrout and red drum that depend on menhaden often exist beyond the one-mile boundary.  Extending the boundary would not only reduce the bycatch of red drum, but perhaps offset the need for drastic limit changes in speckled trout.  

Participation

Due to the public health emergency guidelines established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, only 40 members of the public will be allowed in the meeting room. However, the meeting will be broadcast via Zoom.

To attend via webinar, first register at:
https://wlf-la.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k_8aD3IYQAyi4nTeqwpYKA

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

While attending and speaking in person may not be likely, the public can send comments to the Commission in advance of the meeting.  Please email to Comments@wlf.la.gov by 5:00pm, Wednesday, November 4th. Your email must include the agenda item # (9) in the subject of your email. The body of your message should include your name and address before your comment.  No comments will be accepted via webinar.

Louisiana braces for record-setting Hurricane Delta

Here we go again!  Sometime around 1:00pm on Friday, Hurricane Delta will make landfall around Cameron as a strong Category 2 storm.  In doing so, it will tie the record for the most tropical storms to hit the Louisiana coast in a single year (4) and tie the most to hit the Gulf Coast in a year (9). It also adds to the record of Atlantic storms in a single year (25).

But of greater concern than any record, it will make landfall just a few miles from where Hurricane Laura did only 6 weeks ago.  

Cameron, Calcasieu, and other southwest parishes were just starting to recover from Laura. Even as far north as Rapides Parish, there's still clearing of debris and cable/internet is still unavailable in some rural areas.  Delta will add salt to the wound... it's expected to take a course only slightly east from Laura, hitting the Jennings area and passing slightly east of Alexandria, maintaining hurricane force winds along this path.  The reason for Delta maintaining it's strength is it's rapid movement. 

Recent cool fronts have lowered water temperatures near the coast, reducing the "fuel" needed for the storm to intensify.  It's rapid movement will not give Delta enough time to throttle down before making landfall.  For that reason, this remains a very dangerous storm.  The public is advised to take all precautions.  For more details, go to www.getagameplan.org.

Great Fall weather for this Saturday's Rio Rodeo

12th annual Rio Grande Rodeo
Saturday, October 3, 2020
7:00am to 8:00am - registration
8:00am to 12 noon - fishing
Shelter #2, LaFreniere Park, Metairie
$15 entry fee includes lunch & refreshments

A reminder that this Saturday, it's the annual Rio Grande Rodeo sponsored by the New Orleans Fly Fishers Club. This is a fly fishing only tournament for the Rio Grande cichlid that inhabits the waters of Orleans and Jefferson parishes. Two categories will be awarded: Longest Rio and Most Rios.

While most fishing events have been cancelled since March due to Covid-19 or more recently, tropical storms, the Rio Rodeo is set to go on. Weather should be ideal - forecast calls for SUNNY and high of 72 degrees! Participants are asked to wear masks when gathering and maintain proper distancing.

Although the early registration is passed, onsite registration is available from 7:00am to 8:00am at tourney headquarters at LaFreniere Park. Look for the NOFF signs at Shelter #2. To speed up registration, please print and fill out the registration form below and bring it with you that morning.

Registration Form

After registration, you may branch out to any PUBLIC accessible fishing waters in the boundary area (Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines parishes). Just make sure to be back for the 12 noon weigh-in deadline.  

Raffle.  We'll be holding a raffle to help Casting For Recovery. The prize is a TFO fly rod. Tickets are $10 each, or $20 for 3 tickets. 

Nighttime is the right time

We're at the peak of SweatFest 2020. The oppressive heat of late July and August means that speckled trout activity will be mostly at dawn and at night. 

Night fishing under lights can be both exciting and challenging. It's quite frustrating at times to see so many fish NOT show any interest in lures or flies. Gazillions of shrimp and silverside minnows will do that. 

To put fish in the box, match the hatch with Clouser Minnows or a variety of white or tan shrimp patterns. Cast your fly to the edge of the light ring, into the darkness.  The most strikes usually take place on the conversion zone between light and darkness.  Be aware that the biggest trout are sometimes directly under the light, so give that area a few casts also.

Gamechangers & my own ICAST Best of Show

Gamechanger. It's a word so overused today that even Matthew McConaughey no longer speaks it. Really, what makes a product a "gamechanger"? 

It has to be something that everyone will want to own (at least someday), and that it's competitors will be anxious to copy.  Within the fishing universe, it has to make a difference in the way we fish, the flies we tie, the success of our fishing, or which adds functionality.

With that in mind, I think "gamechanger" should be rare indeed. I can think of a few examples: the Orvis Helios fly rod, breathable jackets and waders, competition jig hooks, the Hobie Mirage Drive, the Yeti cooler. And there's more. But not many more.

The world's largest fishing trade show - ICAST - was held two weeks ago. Not at it's usual location in Orlando, Florida, but online. The virtual show had far fewer exhibitors and far fewer featured products than the floor show normally has. Still it was worth spending several hours on my computer, gathering what info I could.

When it comes to fly fishing and kayak fishing, ICAST isn't near the showcase that Fly Tackle Dealer or Outdoor Retailer are. Still, there was no gamechanger this year by my definition. Maybe with the pandemic, some companies decided to hold back. Or maybe 2020 is one of those years where there really isn't one.

As for the ICAST New Product Showcase and "Best of Show" awards. They've always been popularity contests. Even moreso this year with the virtual showcase. For that reason, I've always done my own. As a flycaster and a kayak angler, my focus is on products of appeal to me - and maybe some others.  So if you disagree with my choices, you're free to email me at idontcare@gmail.com.

With that in mind, here's Cormier's ICAST Best of Show.

Frabill Floating Trout nets

Whether wading, kayaking or fly-fishing Frabill's new Floating Trout Nets put success in the hands of anglers who always stay close to their targets. Safely catch and release with the net frame directly on the water surface. Comfortable rubber handle includes lanyard with carabiner, Fish-friendly dipped micromesh netting and five classic hoop shapes with flat bottom netting.  Price TBA.

Plano Z-Series Waterproof Backpack

Waterproof backpacks are all the rage, and for good reason.  Whether kayaking, wading, or hiking thru rain, it keeps gear dry and frees your hands for more important tasks.  The Z-Series Backpack has a new look and multiple upgrades to keep anglers hands-free and agile. Most notably, the Z-Series backpack is now completely waterproof thanks to a roll-top design and 500D PVC casing with welded seams protecting two 3700 size Stowaways. MSRP is $89.

Hardy Zane Pro

According to Hardy, the new Zane Pro performance saltwater fly rod sets the standard for premium, fast action. Made in England, the Zane Pro features a reduced blank diameter for better wind penetration and reduced weight. Redesigned mandrels and pattern layups boost performance of the aerospace grade carbon fiber and advanced SINTRIX 440 resin system. Titanium recoil guides with a ceramic insert and a scratch-resistant, hard-anodized double up-lock reel seat round out the offering. Offered in 1pc & 4pc designs. MSRP $850.

Douglas Sky G

The newest Saltwater addition to the Douglas lineup. According to Douglas, the SKY G offers superb dampening and recovery, near-effortless casting, accuracy, and outstanding durability. Innovative top-of-the-line components include: REC Titanium Cerecoil stripper guides with zirconia inserts, REC Titanium recoil guides, AAAA flor grade cork, and more. Includes a wicking rod sock, aluminum tube and a lifetime warranty.  The freshwater Sky has been winning "rod shootouts" since it came out last year, and now expands to the saltwater version. At $695, it's priced about $200 less than it's main competitors.

 
Sawatch Fly Rods

Eagle Claw is excited to launch a new line of high performance fly rods. The Sawatch Fly Rods are manufactured with a 30 ton light weight graphite blank. The moderate fast action offers forgiving casts for beginners, but is very responsive for those experience anglers. The Sawatch rods fits in Eagle Claw's commitment to offering performance fishing gear that will not break the bank. Offered in 8'6" 4wt, 9' 5wt, 9' 6wt, and 9' 8wt.

Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120

At 12 feet long, 34.5 inches wide and weighing 85 pounds, this is one of the lighter pedal drive kayaks on the market. It's also one of the least expensive, with a price point of $1899. The PDL features an easy-docking system for launch and landing, and a superior mesh frame seat with lumbar support and adjustable track. What really stands out about this kayak is the hull... it appears that Old Town incorporated the Ocean Kayak tri-hull (at least to some degree). One of the best hulls ever, period! Can't wait to test this out.

Carlisle Magic Angler

A longtime fan of the Magic Angler, it's a lightweight, efficient and powerful paddle - with the emphasis on power.  I've used mine as pushpoles and for everything else they weren't intended for.  The asymmetrical, slightly curved blade shape, combined with a lightweight, flexible fiberglass shaft produces smooth yet powerful strokes. This new version features a cutout in the blade to free snagged hooks and a ruler on the shaft that can be used to measure your catch.  MSRP $110.

 

Flying Fisherman Carico Sunglasses

These are new for 2020, but for some odd reason weren't featured in the New Product Showcase, but similiar to their Drop Back series which was. The AcuTint polarized lenses give excellent contrast and clarity for a budget-priced sunglasses, while the wide side panels block out ambient light and glare. Best of all, they come in a tortoise/amber color that provides good contrast under all weather conditions. And remain cool to the touch on those hot sunny days. MSRP is $25.

Flying Fisherman Sunbandit Pro Series Gloves

I have a pair of Simms gloves that work pretty good, but don't really grip as well as I'd like. The new Pro Series from SunBandit come with silicone printed padding on palms and fingers. Again, this is one of those products where hands-on would yield whether it's worthy of a "best buy". But having experience with the Flying Fisherman brand quality, I'll take a chance here. A must have for keeping your hands protected from UV solar radiation. They're certainly stylish! MSRP $25.

Snook and Everglades Hobie® Polarized Sunglasses

With a streamlined full-wrap fit, the new mid-priced Snook and Everglades series feature Hobie® Hydro 360° dually coated polarized lenses, and provides all-day comfort through co-molded rubber temple tips and nose pads. The Snook is slightly narrower, the Everglades slightly wider. Best of all, they come in my two favorite lens colors: copper and yellow. A sure winner! MSRP $89.

Flyweight Stockingfoot Wader

I love lightweight waders but they come with a compromise in quality and durability. Simms has met the challenge with their new Flyweight wader with a 4-layer fabric in the legs and a 3-layer fabric in the uppers. Yet maintaining light weight and breathability thanks to the Gore-Tex material. In the crotch and under arms is a stretchable Gore-Tex material to enhance mobility. For the fly angler who hikes aways to their spot, this wader deserves strong consideration. MSRP $549.

Finally.... my overall "Best of Show"... and it might surprise readers.

Line Cutterz Dual Hybrid Micro Scissor

Line Cutterz brand was featured on TV's Shark Tank and grew from there. Their new Micro Scissor is advertised as the world's smallest dual line cutter - for braid, mono and fluorocarbon lines. Up to now, braid cutters have come in small sizes... if you consider able to fit in a large pocket "small". But the Line Cutterz is REALLY small. The length of your middle finger. It weighs almost nothing. It features a corrosion resistant ceramic blade and a stainless steel scissor. It's compact and won't catch line when using it with a zinger on a PFD or fly vest.

Why this week's ICAST more important than ever

Tomorrow kicks off ICAST, the world's largest sportfishing trade show. But it won't be taking place as scheduled in Orlando. Due to concerns about the Covid19 pandemic, the show was reformatted to a virtual format. Buyers, retailers, media, pro staffers and other parties will access the show via the internet. While details of how it'll work were only released this past week, questions still remain as to how information about products will be presented.

One thing is certain. Since Fly Tackle Dealer has already been cancelled, "Virtual ICAST" will be critical for companies that make products used by fly rodders. Only a small number of fly tackle makers will be represented at this show - as it has been since the split with IFTD.  But most of the products that flycasters use are also conventional and will be well represented at VICAST. These include waders, packs, boots, nets, hooks, kayaks, phone apps, etc, etc, etc.

Fishing retail sales have been significant since the pandemic.  We expect it to continue.  With anglers confined to the water or to the internet, every bit of news about new products will get maximum attention.

We're looking forward to seeing what new products are coming out for 2021.

Free Fishing Days, 2020-21 licenses now available

Each year, wildlife agencies in each state designate a "Free Fishing Day(s)" for the public to fish recreationally in public waters without a fishing license. These events are part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs June 6-14, 2020.

This year, Louisiana's free fishing days are this Saturday and Sunday, June 13 & 14.

It should be noted that while there is no cost (license) required to fish on these days, certain species or types of fishing may still require a permit. For example, a Recreational Offshore Landing Permit (ROLP) is required to possess tunas, billfish, swordfish, amberjacks, groupers, snappers, hinds, cobia, wahoo, and dolphinfish in Louisiana waters. This permit is free of charge.

Speaking of licenses... Louisiana annual fishing licenses for 2019-2020 expire June 30th at midnight, after which you'll need a 2020-2021 license. The new licenses became available on June 1st, and are good from the time of purchase thru June 30 of 2021.

Licenses can be purchased in several ways: (1) online at https://la-web.s3licensing.com, (2) at local license vendors, and (3) at LDWF offices in Baton Rouge, Opelousas, Lake Charles, Pineville and Monroe. Acceptable methods of payment made online are Visa, Mastercard, and Discover.

June featured fly - Clouser Minnow

Originally designed by Bob Clouser for smallmouth bass in the late 80’s, the Clouser Minnow is perhaps the most effective fly ever created for both fresh and saltwater. It has been used all over the world for dozens of species. It imitates a number of baitfish species on the Gulf Coast and elsewhere. When suspended under a VOSI (fly rodder’s popping cork) it can be very effective for marsh seatrout.

Popular color combinations for wing/tail are: chartreuse/white, blue/white, purple/yellow, white/white, black/black, olive/white. 

Hook: Daiichi 2141, Mustad 34007 or equivalent, sizes 1 or 2
Thread: UTC 140 Denier or Danville Flat
Eyes: Dumbell eyes, 1/60 or 1/40 ounce
Tail/Body: White Bucktail.
Wing: Bucktail, various colors.
Flash: Pearl Krystal Flash

Cristobal bears down on Louisiana coast

Later today, Tropical Storm Cristobal will make landfall south of New Orleans with peak winds of about 40 mph and gusts up to 60 mph. Heavy rain bands which moved into southeast Louisiana, coastal Mississippi and Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle, will extend northward as Cristobal moves into north Louisiana tonight and tomorrow.

What Cristobal lacks in strength, it makes up for in size. The storm surge from this storm has been significant for a non-hurricane, with as much as 4 feet of water inundating areas from Clermont Harbor, MS, south to Hopedale. Grand Isle has also been inundated from storm surge.

The storm forced the cancellation of the Lafayette Kayak Fishing Club's Louisiana Slamboree tournament, as well as the K&C Central Louisiana bass tournament on Lake Vernon. The timing has also been bad for speckled trout anglers as fishing has been on fire from Grand Isle and Leeville, and out west at Holly Beach and Big Lake. Solid stringers of 14 inch and larger trout were taken since Memorial Day.

The center of the storm is expected to travel along Interstate 49, with heavy rainfall forecast on the east side of the center.  This will likely put a hurt to some great bream fishing now happening across northeast and east-central Louisiana.

Welcome to SweatFest 2020!

SweatFest - the one festival no one likes to celebrate! Well, except for those who love the beach, snowballs, and cutting grass. Kids love it too because no school. Although this year, that's been true since March.

The Summer soltice may not arrive until later this month, but seasons in Louisiana are always about 2-3 weeks early. Memorial Day weekend is usually the kickoff for 90 degree days and 70 degree nights, and high humidity.  Oh, and the sporadic tropical storm in the Gulf.  Enjoy the June breezes because come July they go away and the sweating kicks up a notch.  And so does the tropical storm activity.

With SweatFest comes an emphasis on summer safety. Summer sun and heat bring many dangers to anglers. Heat stroke is the number one threat. Bring an ice chest or cooler tote bag with water and/or sports drinks to stay hydrated. The sun itself is a threat, but does its damage over time. Skin exposed to high UV radiation months can lead to skin cancer. Protect your skin by putting on a high-SPF waterproof sunscreen before you get on the water. Wear long sleeve breathable shirts, a rim cap or a bill cap in conjunction with a gaitor (buff). Always were some type of cover for your feet.

Also be aware that thunderstorms can be a daily occurence in summer. At the first sign of towering  cumulus clouds, start making your way back to the launch (especially if you're in a kayak). Lightning can strike from eight miles away, so waiting for lightning to approach is not a smart option!

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.