tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40833900010698844622024-03-05T07:10:10.856-08:00The West Canada Freakthe adventures and ramblings of a central New York fly fisher...Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-15434650776457530882011-09-05T08:11:00.001-07:002011-09-06T22:10:20.679-07:00The Blizzard Hatch of 2011I know, I know - where the hell have I been? I realize all two or three of you that might actually check this blog are wondering if I sold my gear. This past year has been an adjustment trying to balance a new work schedule and increased responsibilities but I assure you, I have been out fishing a few times. Last Wednesday was one of those times and I must share our experience.<br /><br />Okay, I've heard the term "blizzard hatch" before, and I figured it was just someone getting excited over their first significant hatch. I mean, I've seen a "blanket hatch" before, with so many mayflies coming off the water that they blanket the water's surface. I've been in a caddis hatch where I thought I was covered in caddis. I do say "thought", because nothing would prepare me for what Bob and I experienced on the 30th.<br /><br />We fished Newport the week before, hitting a lackluster white fly hatch that didn't develop into much at all (Newport has been our go-to spot for white fly hatches since having one of our best evenings about 5-6 years ago). Bob went out the following Thursday with little luck as well. Then Irene hit Sunday and Monday, causing some light flooding on TWCC, but nothing like spring runoff levels. By Wednesday, we weren't sure how far the hatch had worked up the river, but something told us to head to the run below the first rt. 28 bridge (from what I've read, a.k.a. "the lake"). The hatch started slow, but early. A few white flies popped out around 7:30pm and the fish started rising sporadically. With a surprising amount of daylight left the hatch really started picking up around 8:00pm. Bob and I cought a couple of fish, but as usual there were too many flies available to get the fish to pay much attention to our offerings. Then, it got thick. I mean, really thick. It was too dark to get a decent pic of the scene, but let me describe it to you. Imagine a mayfly every 3-4 inches on the surface of the water. Imagine looking down on your vest and seeing easily 2 -3 dozen flies at a quick glance. Adult shucks littering the flaps covering your pockets. Reeling in your fly to find 3 white flies stuck to the hook. Fluttering around your ears. Trying to suppress your laughter at the spectacle in front of you because you're breathing in mayflies. We had to take cover in the woods because we were actually worried about choking on the bugs. I had to be careful when turning on my headlamp because it attracted so many more bugs at my face that I couldn't breathe. No lie. It was that thick.<br /><br />Bob managed to get a pic as the hatch started to warm up - this was not at its peak, mind you:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPazQSRLaMK7M1xpZXuJ3WxRFy0uHnI0lt8kaqO6DvxmVE92XDQSVHaXE4GpI520JzmOUXE2TTsmSGewCZhSvM5YBmVG-IoXgB-b6RSkFgo0PQoABZ-2K9r8r0yXVh4ui67EnzhN-zwRM/s1600/white+flies+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPazQSRLaMK7M1xpZXuJ3WxRFy0uHnI0lt8kaqO6DvxmVE92XDQSVHaXE4GpI520JzmOUXE2TTsmSGewCZhSvM5YBmVG-IoXgB-b6RSkFgo0PQoABZ-2K9r8r0yXVh4ui67EnzhN-zwRM/s200/white+flies+2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649480166567709458" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We worked our way down to the bridge, and headed back to the water. No fish were rising but there were bugs everywhere. Bob put two and two together - the fish were actually... full. I pulled my quick seine over my net and started scooping at the surface. There were thousands of shucks, everywhere. And then, we looked up at the light on the bridge and were blown away. It really, honestly, unbelievably, looked like a heavy snow was falling. The mating swarm was thick up beyond the street lamp. It looked like a blizzard.<br /><br />For those of you looking to fish the white fly hatch, good luck. It is a hatch that continues to excite and haunt me and I seem to learn something new about it every year. This year, I got a really good look at the nymphal shucks - something I think will be the key to the hatch in the future for me. They were a medium gray with a heavy dark rib and medium tan gills. I'm thinking a proper nymph design will help the fishing up to the hatch, and a cripple/emerger pattern along with a soft hackle might do the trick during the hatch. I'm sure spinners would work too, but by the time the spinners hit the water there are way too many naturals to compete with. Oh, and it's so dark that it's pure luck seeing or feeling a take. Not discouraged yet? Good. The white fly hatch lasts for a few weeks from the end of August to the middle of September on TWCC. It starts downstream and works its way up the river each day. As of the 30th, it was just below Cincinnati Creek, so take that into account when you plan your next fishing night. If you happen to miss it this year, I'll see you on "The Creek" next August.Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-26699836594104022582010-04-08T06:07:00.000-07:002010-04-08T06:10:21.855-07:004/1/10: the openerWhat a rotten day. Bright, sunny skies, warm air temps, slightly higher water level than the previous Sunday, and water temp of 42 degrees. Fortunately, I didn't catch a thing. Wouldn't want to anger the fish gods and have a bad season, now, would I?<br /><br />More to come...Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-84158779028765649312010-03-29T04:28:00.000-07:002010-03-29T05:03:17.820-07:003/28/10: pre-season scrimmage at Limestone<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_YPFnEECQpgJ6faF0ATlbS9FyRO97rJr2UVuRSGH7uplXQ-Hx-J6q2M0QnWKctnM4f7oGbf7OtaY6bJk9ub7wG6HU-i-8dDebEiNWlIjdSNUzzvNfRIs4y2WxV4ka8JUFDNjPUuNsjU/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_YPFnEECQpgJ6faF0ATlbS9FyRO97rJr2UVuRSGH7uplXQ-Hx-J6q2M0QnWKctnM4f7oGbf7OtaY6bJk9ub7wG6HU-i-8dDebEiNWlIjdSNUzzvNfRIs4y2WxV4ka8JUFDNjPUuNsjU/s200/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023349380250898" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BGrMquMOTWTo2SL1vrbEchKnl4CT_rqXWKuOw5_aUaIC0Rqor-tI2UMurx4bYNc5MGI_EZt8ac5VUhL8yskPPmlBbIDj-xZVqJ8nX0-cuC1i8NG3WCV-YSEBq2SGIkNp9RRFX1pFDMA/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BGrMquMOTWTo2SL1vrbEchKnl4CT_rqXWKuOw5_aUaIC0Rqor-tI2UMurx4bYNc5MGI_EZt8ac5VUhL8yskPPmlBbIDj-xZVqJ8nX0-cuC1i8NG3WCV-YSEBq2SGIkNp9RRFX1pFDMA/s200/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023356945062306" border="0" /></a><br />So, Bob and I got out yesterday to stretch our lines and work out the kinks. The old dam on Limestone behind the town offices in Fayetteville had been breached by the town. I had never fished Limestone downstream b<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyq0G2MwqAYJL4Di6xTFKRTzIhFaEkDIr3nOE8CbTiuJHZ0Wrc1Zl9dhEwS0AWGSoGt0p1DdJUKvkTNSvRr3XmARWcQiOS8IN3UzIKwgYDQboVIzit8XGTx9Ugbq652SB5wyNTBUSSlM/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyq0G2MwqAYJL4Di6xTFKRTzIhFaEkDIr3nOE8CbTiuJHZ0Wrc1Zl9dhEwS0AWGSoGt0p1DdJUKvkTNSvRr3XmARWcQiOS8IN3UzIKwgYDQboVIzit8XGTx9Ugbq652SB5wyNTBUSSlM/s200/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023361005770706" border="0" /></a>eyond that point, and Bob mentioned that he too had never really looked at that stretch before. we parked down the road to towline path and walked all the way to where Limestone joins with the Erie Canal. Wow. What great water. There is some beautiful p<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnT7rDcXBDFQ0CCkr8Og-VfE9mBWxg25WFS6qvd522Qv9WnhHEEolBJY2T-GmjwL8WO87NB7GdFZZ4qzBnx63Z9Oku2kxYIhV-9rKi5dNQctRvcS35WYpB3NYOPO0Paw8AUVLSSmFz4Wc/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnT7rDcXBDFQ0CCkr8Og-VfE9mBWxg25WFS6qvd522Qv9WnhHEEolBJY2T-GmjwL8WO87NB7GdFZZ4qzBnx63Z9Oku2kxYIhV-9rKi5dNQctRvcS35WYpB3NYOPO0Paw8AUVLSSmFz4Wc/s200/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023369297489666" border="0" /></a>ools and runs all the way back to the town offices. The brush cover was pretty thick in spots, and we spent ample amount of time "in total harmony with our environment" - which to the untrained eye could simply look like we were frequently tangled up in scrub and thorn bushes, spouting obscenities and flailing about. Despite the higher, colder water, Bob managed to allegedly catch 3 nice browns - mind you, I only saw one. The catch was quite suspect, since he offered me the pool afterward and I caught nothing. I know! As if he would catch fish when I didn't. See what I mean? Very suspicious, if you ask me.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0anArwGL7Kd8XMG6vgdlNeRgn40SmfNo0WH4Ox6jIGM817zlhrIZnTt3-xGhgfc_7L_bzrmvDpSyrCoRZnecw8wXtE66f6lGfRLrcYZ7ESccM952ZNqx74uFvwanZKD-ZER6aM0PGmdw/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0anArwGL7Kd8XMG6vgdlNeRgn40SmfNo0WH4Ox6jIGM817zlhrIZnTt3-xGhgfc_7L_bzrmvDpSyrCoRZnecw8wXtE66f6lGfRLrcYZ7ESccM952ZNqx74uFvwanZKD-ZER6aM0PGmdw/s200/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023371226372690" border="0" /></a><br />It was a nice morning, a coopers hawk, a few mallards including one I spooked out of her nest (see photo) but no fish for me, thank God. I mean, why would I want to anger the fish gods by catching anything before the opener? I did feel bad for Bob, for if he did catch those three fish, then he might have angered the fish gods.<br /><br />We grabbed some lunch and headed to my old stomping grounds. It was strange walking and fishing behind our old townhouses - it seemed like a lifetime away, and yet the stream had <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXYq97OixdVGnyqGGhlOByi9-ad-zDQp5oWIMJIBv6mObK9DXf6S5chIR0H0gqfAPKjBMbP9SmiXnYnFNC7Q1U-Qui-GUequROIhcaWb7NsOAYehBdg8fo44U11tQ0n_frilM83HjvKo/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXYq97OixdVGnyqGGhlOByi9-ad-zDQp5oWIMJIBv6mObK9DXf6S5chIR0H0gqfAPKjBMbP9SmiXnYnFNC7Q1U-Qui-GUequROIhcaWb7NsOAYehBdg8fo44U11tQ0n_frilM83HjvKo/s200/020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023632584361314" border="0" /></a>changed very little. I was joined my some kids from the other side of the fence. They were quite helpful and offered to stay and talk to me to keep me company. Gee....... thanks. Maybe you all should go down stream and check out that other guy - he might actually catch a fish for you.<br /><br />Fishing some familiar water, I did hook up on a small brown when I wasn't paying attention. Air temp was around 47F, water temp 40F. A few gray midges and couple of #12 gray/black stoneflies in the air. I did have a hitchhiking scud on my wading boot at the end. not bad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3qqgjlgWeGAI3kRoQkpl8re6Gw2n991Ah1q_QLLbhMApUUtjQCFrCBBF_aHMyAqponHarkm9QdmL1GQEZbRALYGVR_8unF2i6R7gUK8aJoNnms5dU_494bKUo3dycTS0nreOM5VqVJA/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3qqgjlgWeGAI3kRoQkpl8re6Gw2n991Ah1q_QLLbhMApUUtjQCFrCBBF_aHMyAqponHarkm9QdmL1GQEZbRALYGVR_8unF2i6R7gUK8aJoNnms5dU_494bKUo3dycTS0nreOM5VqVJA/s200/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454023633164886354" border="0" /></a> for early spring. Looks like i know where I'm going for the opener :)Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-66163280094116287452010-03-20T10:36:00.000-07:002010-03-20T10:42:44.746-07:00A Spring fishing sonnet to ring in the new season...Just to show you all how bad I got it for this year's fishing season, I jotted down this little ditty today:<br /><br />With the robin home and the snow receding,<br />the old man's grip on our disposition, loosed.<br />There's an arid warmth of Spring's breath - still fleeting,<br />carried back to us on the wings of a goose.<br />Under liquid mirrors a trout is feeding,<br />as a steelhead fans her spawning bed.<br />The earthen incense fills my nares,<br />a siren's call reverbs in my head.<br />For it's the time of year I'm filled with yearning,<br />it's the time my ailment is most prevalent.<br />A trout fever illness some just call fishing,<br />but for me and obsession and time well spent.<br />So, please fear not my friends of my distant eyes,<br />in my mind I've already taken up rod, reel, and fly...<br /><br />Happy spring and tight lines for 2010!!<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-54963610275439471242009-11-08T01:19:00.000-08:002009-11-08T02:15:35.508-08:0011/7/09: A steely persuit, with ice in our veins...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHLMTLa8oS4EwctnwXoWFf7uLtV48Vvks9K0N2lVlaZNwqaKCePgU1eY8TxTzK6XQFa2ageD2TiQ9TymGPlRyF2sUM8KBS1YptB7iTzP_7urzfalb5duswCK627kV2LN243QQ5hSCUrg/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHLMTLa8oS4EwctnwXoWFf7uLtV48Vvks9K0N2lVlaZNwqaKCePgU1eY8TxTzK6XQFa2ageD2TiQ9TymGPlRyF2sUM8KBS1YptB7iTzP_7urzfalb5duswCK627kV2LN243QQ5hSCUrg/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401674090361444834" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Bob and I hit the Salmon river for our annual November steelhead "morning". It was cold. Not ice-in-the-guides cold, but cold enough to get me thinking my clothing choices were kinda stupid. It was great to meet up with Bob again - it had been a couple of months since we fished the white fly hatch on WCC.<br /><br />We decided to try out the compactor <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxSZay5M6ou3aKp-YRKvOls_upXtOmc98eeedUvqBj4HMLYM0EwuqLOX8JKZR6mm27TPG6dog2EF2B8_v9qV5KQQ4U_TRJgHoDOT6dOl9F40OVMf0kr2Stpvo-AXSEED-d1-S8vnAu0M/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxSZay5M6ou3aKp-YRKvOls_upXtOmc98eeedUvqBj4HMLYM0EwuqLOX8JKZR6mm27TPG6dog2EF2B8_v9qV5KQQ4U_TRJgHoDOT6dOl9F40OVMf0kr2Stpvo-AXSEED-d1-S8vnAu0M/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401674082446198290" border="0" /></a>pool per the suggestion of one of Bob's TU buddies. We headed upstream along the south bank to fine nice run after nice run. I have to say, there is too much nice water to fish on this river. As usual, the fishing was slow and I was the only fish catcher today. A nice fish if we were trout fishing, but as a steelhead it was small - around 16-18 inches. The clouds opened up as we moved down to a different section of the compactor pool area. Moving downstream from the bridge revealed some really nice water, tainted by an inconsiderate guide in his boat, and later a selfish pr*ck who felt the river belonged to him. Oh well. It's the Salmon River...the fleas come with the dog.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7SPw-kqyoMJCYnAQOD17Tt1aHb7U6Sp3ZDgnHWs69Wzx0KkFq8ZENRSIonYxPNiSfUlHKr26p5bdDs-E1Jw6aSKhfrsC3e-ShQMIlUc1YxW9ddmisO0c_19jj7ZqxLiW6ri9TAAm-Vs/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7SPw-kqyoMJCYnAQOD17Tt1aHb7U6Sp3ZDgnHWs69Wzx0KkFq8ZENRSIonYxPNiSfUlHKr26p5bdDs-E1Jw6aSKhfrsC3e-ShQMIlUc1YxW9ddmisO0c_19jj7ZqxLiW6ri9TAAm-Vs/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401674079881742242" border="0" /></a><br />Always enjoyable to get out fishing with Bob. Maybe someday we'll get enough time on that river to amp up our success rate during the Fall runs.Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-58921316786161495032009-11-03T06:44:00.000-08:002009-11-03T07:17:13.860-08:0010/10/09: Dial, Nippletop, Colvin hike<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxlBl742wYDGWeAGCAkPoL-VghH53F81-TCJ2kHDCobm3bIP9z3PFPYo_gz-6OeQMvzNPfoLr05yGZedl7sWEbQArt_wpJ_kuHz-gwSHyFndOKskT4mFTiqn7XlsTSgckheLYyXvdOpI/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxlBl742wYDGWeAGCAkPoL-VghH53F81-TCJ2kHDCobm3bIP9z3PFPYo_gz-6OeQMvzNPfoLr05yGZedl7sWEbQArt_wpJ_kuHz-gwSHyFndOKskT4mFTiqn7XlsTSgckheLYyXvdOpI/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399896367520382130" border="0" /></a><br />view hike pics at: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157622436421233/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157622436421233/</a><br /><br />So, one last fall hike in until I start some winter peak bagging. I was really itching to test my hiking speed and do a little recon for next year's hikes with Deb, Paul, and the boys. Knowing Matt is always game for a hike and wanting to keep it simple, I recruited mister "dooit" to help pull my ass up the trails. The plan was to bag Dial and Nippletop in the morning, Colvin and Blake in the afternoon, and finish out with a nice picture opportunity at Indian Head on the way out. Like I said, that was the plan.<br /><br />Here's what I wrote up for ADKHighPeaks forum:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8lA_hSYhAVcqwi3YG5cvOmLerYVjat2Ro4RQzbeU-EeEIXfQYTguMmNtVzcKoOOPNlMmeCdAaljyenkzSocg-eX6wYBpNExDS0pEibeF2SWrHyDqY8Sjn-mPeCFk-UDHYUUwCFVjKvqA/s1600-h/015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8lA_hSYhAVcqwi3YG5cvOmLerYVjat2Ro4RQzbeU-EeEIXfQYTguMmNtVzcKoOOPNlMmeCdAaljyenkzSocg-eX6wYBpNExDS0pEibeF2SWrHyDqY8Sjn-mPeCFk-UDHYUUwCFVjKvqA/s200/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399896372036500002" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Let's Sum it up:<br /><br />St. Huberts parking area... headlamps... Lake Road... Leach Trail... mud... rain... mud.</span><span style="font-style: italic;">.. no view on Bear Den... mud... more rain... mud... no view on Dial... mud... snow... mud... sleet.... mud... no view from Nippletop.... mud... Elk Pass trail... mud... clouds lift... great range... wow... mud... Elk Pass... mud... mud... Colvin trail... why not?... mud... this is a trail?... rock... mud... you've got to be kidding me... mud... rock... I'm too old for this crap... mud... rock... thank God... views... wow... nice pair of backpackers... more wow... college kids... ugh... if he throws that Frisbee, I'll have to make what I do to him look like an acciden</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MbJR0qiQIkYFmj6WUiGfO1jJ9ICDV84Y8E_pXTwVG5L4R6KhxA2wiCjNCggkem8t_kWhOR0t3rjeaKwxJeTdqr7Y9vuGyk9iN9lZLUmuzVDuaE7uBPI_yNrnVCSo5kh4oTOUiSGQMFU/s1600-h/036.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MbJR0qiQIkYFmj6WUiGfO1jJ9ICDV84Y8E_pXTwVG5L4R6KhxA2wiCjNCggkem8t_kWhOR0t3rjeaKwxJeTdqr7Y9vuGyk9iN9lZLUmuzVDuaE7uBPI_yNrnVCSo5kh4oTOUiSGQMFU/s200/036.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399896373547898866" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">t... let's get out of here... mud... rock... rock... mud... on the home stretch... mud... mud... Lake Road... headlamps... St. Huberts Parking area.<br /><br />A couple of personal observations:<br /><br />First, I was curious as to why such a small, unassuming peak would be named for one of the Adirondack's first hardcore, bad*ss hikers like Verplanck Colvin. Having finally hiked that trail, I now know why. I could hear Verplanck saying "quit whining and get your *ss up there!" as I slogged to the summit.<br /><br />Second, with the advancement of headlamp technology the trails are a very popular place no matter what time of day...or night. There was a time when being out at night in the w</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49-9gfwZhOz0wJIlb8OxgohgNV4sum_5iWjRKDvs2m9RdsSjPi01hLNLhStjM-XGIcCeX7p7RhX3whkJ7aKSV11bdiGNTBI97nIHEPxzbBrwSBsqCnSGVoCm3D5cmmXXY1RyFgVcKDSk/s1600-h/038.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg49-9gfwZhOz0wJIlb8OxgohgNV4sum_5iWjRKDvs2m9RdsSjPi01hLNLhStjM-XGIcCeX7p7RhX3whkJ7aKSV11bdiGNTBI97nIHEPxzbBrwSBsqCnSGVoCm3D5cmmXXY1RyFgVcKDSk/s200/038.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399896378062411170" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">oods caused most people to hunker down in camp. Now, I seem to run into almost as many hikers at night as I do during the day. Really cool!</span><br /><br />So, we ended up skipping Blake and Indian Head mainly because we were losing daylight...and I was totally exhausted. We will split them up for next year, even if we do them on longer days. Still, a great day and that gets me down to the 30 peak mark!Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-90886664867063436882009-11-03T06:37:00.000-08:002009-11-03T06:42:46.102-08:009/25/09: Street and Nye hike<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZJ2jl-DMJu-sOEB8E1rL9P6vOITTjWriC8BQZTIuQPZaYSEYhAHnjoj74CnWYJld66OfK29mE6VAGyOA44WVar4yiRzHHMfFp4PLfzrKSWe24gkaTH5SHB4c2_yKB8x9G7PJrWvFHfY/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZJ2jl-DMJu-sOEB8E1rL9P6vOITTjWriC8BQZTIuQPZaYSEYhAHnjoj74CnWYJld66OfK29mE6VAGyOA44WVar4yiRzHHMfFp4PLfzrKSWe24gkaTH5SHB4c2_yKB8x9G7PJrWvFHfY/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399887577792640642" border="0" /></a>
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Deb’s triumphant return to the high peaks! We headed up to the ADK Loj with high expectations. The tree colors were beautiful, yet still not peak. Lots of reds, more than I remember from previous years. We hit the trail by 9AM, which would prove to be a little late based on how the day would play out. The trail was well worn, but unfortunately covered in fallen leaves. This made it pretty tough to follow since it looked like the rest of the forest floor around it. We spooked a ruffed grouse – a new bird for both of us. T<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LCZNdKa2omKynv8X3bjDUA3s79CDA_KIKdOmtmT2lwI38VVIZ4yq0-A3MF2BQKslhhMrAFFt4oTcd3WeO9a5pKUhZGQSJNW0OiOJS6Wqnl8KxN9MM1VX0-peitDpLKwOvku9S6jzscg/s1600-h/012.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LCZNdKa2omKynv8X3bjDUA3s79CDA_KIKdOmtmT2lwI38VVIZ4yq0-A3MF2BQKslhhMrAFFt4oTcd3WeO9a5pKUhZGQSJNW0OiOJS6Wqnl8KxN9MM1VX0-peitDpLKwOvku9S6jzscg/s200/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399887583777787394" border="0" /></a>he crossing at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Indian</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Pass</st1:placetype></st1:place> brook was successful, in that neither of us got wet. Then a slow, steady climb. I almost packed out the trash from the old logging camp site until I realized that the glass was part of the history of that spot. Deb was doing nicely, but started to get a little tired. We would come to realize afterward that will all the dieting we had been doing and her being at her lowest weight since starting the diet that she got depleted really quickly. It wasn’t a grueling trail, per se, but challenging enough for someone with little carb reserves, no real carbs to replace, and also being her first high peaks hike in over a decade. We truly believe whoever wrote the estimated distances for the hike was sippin’ the single malt that day. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It was cool to finally see the junction tree with the “N” and “S” – something I’ve seen in pictures a number of times. Deb insisted on doing Street first, which was probably the smartest decision of the day. It seemed to take forever. As we were walking over the summit rock I looked up and saw the sign. I stopped Deb in her tracks to let her know we were there and the look on her face was priceless! We rested a little, ate a little, and checked out the views of the McEntyre range and MacNaughton to the south. The trail back down and then over to Nye was pretty nice, actually. There’s no way Nye is 0.4 miles from the junction compared to Street’s 0.6 miles. We were there in 10 to 15 minutes. And no, like everyone said, there are no views on Nye – although just back<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMoJocuX6k6h2yrZKGUq0dLUR8yRqhE5KOC7wOe_PvP5ID2_3jiQvhrZKelZigLQx-smSmTi-XLqPaQCaGTpyMAFlmxNOfmIb7gtT0EYIn9O76T3yJBm2nF_l1JRW88dUmPodS5nd36U/s1600-h/015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMMoJocuX6k6h2yrZKGUq0dLUR8yRqhE5KOC7wOe_PvP5ID2_3jiQvhrZKelZigLQx-smSmTi-XLqPaQCaGTpyMAFlmxNOfmIb7gtT0EYIn9O76T3yJBm2nF_l1JRW88dUmPodS5nd36U/s200/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399887571173883266" border="0" /></a> down the trail were some nice lookout areas. I thought we were making good time until then. I started to realize we had been moving slower than I expected, and as the clock winded down I started to think about hiking out in the dark. Not a frightening concept usually, but remembering how difficult the trail was to follow in the daylight got me a little anxious. By the time we were 2 miles from the end, we stopped to take a break. Deb was getting weaker and weaker, and I was kicking myself for not packing the right food. We made it to Indian Pass Brook before we lost daylight, thank God, and I was feeling a little more confident. I still worried about getting out, but at least knew we were past some of the more confusing and difficult trail to cover. The Headlamps came out soon after. It was quite peaceful, although I think Deb was feeling pretty awful by then. When we saw the Mount Jo/Old Nye Ski Trail sign, I knew I could breathe again.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This wasn’t the return to the high peaks that Deb had wanted, but there were definitely some factors I hadn’t thought about. Not the right food – that was one. Not being able to navigate in the dark was another. We agreed that no matter what diet we were on, that a hike day would be a carb cheat day. At the very least, I would carry power bars just in case. Also, I took a serious look into a new GPS unit that would be reliable in the mountains. Being able to set way points on the way up would’ve helped us keep on the trail on the way back. We most certainly lived and learned on this one. For Deb 10 down and 36 to go. For me, 13 down…</p> Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-75360158560793650842009-11-03T06:32:00.000-08:002009-11-03T06:37:26.237-08:009/12/09: Tabletop hike<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2a2bnmlA72hZb11wwtKcNkETekznlYTmDQcrn_qRz_yR54-aZNd9G1Ps-3xg8w0am4sC81ZI2zYDP9zNMYp5SD7k-0Km7btWTJo7YIYF7NohJtbnvmIgPEQz19VpzXOGKFls0PBsX5o/s1600-h/011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2a2bnmlA72hZb11wwtKcNkETekznlYTmDQcrn_qRz_yR54-aZNd9G1Ps-3xg8w0am4sC81ZI2zYDP9zNMYp5SD7k-0Km7btWTJo7YIYF7NohJtbnvmIgPEQz19VpzXOGKFls0PBsX5o/s200/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399886396399063922" border="0" /></a><br />view the pics at: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157622457892770/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157622457892770/</a><br /><br />I do love September for hiking. Nice cool weather, the air damp and refreshing. The gang was all there again. This time, I was the one to get the sleep . Erin unfortunately didn’t have any hiking boots with her this time, and it would prove to put a damper on her day. By the time we got to Marcy Dam, she has a half dollar sized blister on each heel. The summits were in the clouds most of the day, and provided little views consequently. The hike up the Van Hovenburg Trail was easier than I remember. We decided to do Tabletop first. Unfortunately, it was socked in the clouds when we got up there, and the view was uninspiring. However, it was another one for the books, so everyone was happy with that. As we started down I was getting concerned that we might need some more water, so I sprinted ahead down the VHT to Phelps Brook. By the time I had three liters treated the whole team was together again. Paul was bushed, and Erin was deciding if Phelps was worth the side trip. The trio decided to head towards Phelps while Paul and I rested up. We decided the mountain will wait for us another day, so we were going to head to the car. Shortly after our decision we got word that Erin’s blisters were forcing her to head back. She popped off of the Phelps spur trail just as we came up on the junction, and the three of us headed to the car. The boys took an extra hour to get to the top and back, but their reward was catching the only view offerings of the day. All in all, a nice day out.Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-29028399850667902722009-11-03T06:24:00.000-08:002009-11-03T06:31:36.406-08:009/2/06: West Canada White Fly hatch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-ckdQ5UvmnsZT_j2SESgITbPVys97CTangjYkTESvyOzZEAHVkJR5f9BgNvImr5PtLQxZGomOfB7oqHIKyccx2_yRn4-E27Xd7dzFxtpykJDKjGuj52g4aNX3Cqvxl_g87IQ07yCg8I/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-ckdQ5UvmnsZT_j2SESgITbPVys97CTangjYkTESvyOzZEAHVkJR5f9BgNvImr5PtLQxZGomOfB7oqHIKyccx2_yRn4-E27Xd7dzFxtpykJDKjGuj52g4aNX3Cqvxl_g87IQ07yCg8I/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399884262268937170" border="0" /></a>
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mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Phew…letting time get ahead of me <span style="font-family:Wingdings;"><span style="">J</span></span>. Bob and I headed up to TWCC at the beginning of the month to catch the white fly hatch. We headed to a spot in Middleville that’s downstream from our usual white fly spot in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Newport</st1:place></st1:city>. As it was, we realized afterward that it wasn’t as far from our usual spot as we had thought.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Bob had been there the week before to check things out. In a strange twist of fate, he had left his vest behind. Yup……his vest. Let that sink in a little. For a fly fisherman, losing his vest is much worse than losing a fly rod or maybe even having his car stolen. I’ve owned my vest much longe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkYk9X0pmWlfw9_ye28VJeYX_lZfE2FfFyZ_PWZb3kaFpdlt1vVl4sAUG49XQrkyufeus3nS-0wgpvcaHpO-dv3oxDvieKbwgtiW6mq3bi_0VTdlYRb6Za415eDeq0JkozpTh6QgUgp0/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkYk9X0pmWlfw9_ye28VJeYX_lZfE2FfFyZ_PWZb3kaFpdlt1vVl4sAUG49XQrkyufeus3nS-0wgpvcaHpO-dv3oxDvieKbwgtiW6mq3bi_0VTdlYRb6Za415eDeq0JkozpTh6QgUgp0/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399884257637035618" border="0" /></a>r than my car. All those flies. All those gadgets. All that gear collected over the years, tucked away in a garment that becomes an old friend, eventually. Once you’ve been a fisherman for a few years, you gain an intimate relationship with your vest rivaled only by your spouse and closest fishing buddy. Don’t worry, there is a happy ending. In fact, he got it all back. Some nice, local woman who walks her dog in the area of the parking access found it and brought it to the local tackle shop. Bob called the shop on a whim just to see if someone happened to drop it off and sure enough, they had it. Nothing taken. Wow.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">So, after chatting up the tackle owner, buying a few flies, and soaking up the old-time-tackle-shop-ambiance, we headed to the parking access that was practically around the corner from the shop. We arrived to find a couple fishing the spot at the parking area. Nice couple. We waded down stream to some very perfect wa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkJMdI6nmKQD6IpoX05BP-2t38claptOiXr6g5i03d9EznM_AjL0JHARkpq4hHOUER7Z0NS7GmdEKPpl_EIANHawbgF4S6Wa48ydfH-GIfYvW9gJRPagjzkoPsVqcuhv2ZhrUcjQaN_c/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLkJMdI6nmKQD6IpoX05BP-2t38claptOiXr6g5i03d9EznM_AjL0JHARkpq4hHOUER7Z0NS7GmdEKPpl_EIANHawbgF4S6Wa48ydfH-GIfYvW9gJRPagjzkoPsVqcuhv2ZhrUcjQaN_c/s200/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399884252194510946" border="0" /></a>ter. The fish obviously didn’t care how nice the water looked, because we could only get a spotty rise or two. As dusk started to set in, I noticed a couple of white flies coming off. I switched to a cream variant that I picked up at the shop and hooked up a feisty little brown. That would prove to be my only one the rest of the evening, unfortunately. The hatch came off as expected – white flies everywhere like a silent blizzard. Fish rising, but impossible to figure out what version of the fly they were eating. Typical. Our nemesis fly hatch wins again. Did I mention the wings at the Hotel Moore are excellent?</p> Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-75141785695350220692009-08-26T22:51:00.000-07:002009-08-26T23:13:47.618-07:008/25/09: a good leg stretching at Highland ForestAfter being skunked at The West Canada the previous night, you would've thought I would just mope around the next day. No need to dwell on the past - we will be back out next week so hopefully we'll hit the white fly hatch then. I <em>do</em> have another High Peaks hike coming up, and I really haven't worked out well enough. The stair climber and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">treadmill</span> sitting in the basement have been so uninspiring to me lately. We have plenty of local parks with good hiking trails, fortunately.<br /><br />Highland Forest doesn't open until 8:30am, a fact I discovered and sheepishly ignored at 7:00am as I pulled into the parking lot. No one around. Good. Just me and the wildlife - not that I could hear much over the sound of my gasping breaths as I pushed myself for a land speed record. The trail was pretty muddy from the rains over the weekend, and I think that slowed me down a bit. At least that was my excuse. I gave it my all, regardless, and finished the 8.7 mile main trail in 3 hours and 5 minutes. 21 minute miles on a sloppy trail. Not bad for a fat, old guy.<br /><br />You ever noticed that the larger an animal is, the quieter they are in the woods? The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">noisiest</span> creatures I came across were a few blue jays <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">fluttering</span> around. The quietest? All dozen or so of the deer I spooked throughout the morning. How can something that large bound silently through the woods as if watching TV with the mute button on? One of life's wonders, I guess.<br /><br />MuddyMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-89840831196621371492009-08-26T22:42:00.000-07:002009-08-26T22:50:49.171-07:008/24/09: The West Canada CreekSo, I'll keep this short and sweet. Bob and I headed to The West Canada in hopes of catching the white fly hatch. T'was not to be, unfortunately. In fact, it was a beautiful night, water temps in the mid 60's, perfect stretch of water below the yellow gate parking area, and very little action. We were encouraged with three white flies coming off and a decent Isonychia spinner fall. Bob got one ten incher. Me? Nope. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Not even a hit once. Stupid fish. Did mention that the wings at the Hotel Moore in Trenton Falls are outstanding?<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-68524032898592895462009-08-20T12:28:00.000-07:002009-08-20T14:11:45.567-07:00In defense of a finely tuned daypack...You may have read my previous post of the Algonquin hike, when I had a wardrobe malfunction on the way up the mountain. Of all the comments from fellow hikers, the ones that got to me the most weren't the sarcastic ones. It was when they looked in astonishment and exclaimed how "lucky" I was that I had duct tape and cord to fix those boots. Yeah. It really did bother me a bit, because it implied that my repairs were by chance - as if I fell into some fortune that allowed me to repair my equipment and continue on. It may come as a surprise, but I DID pack my own <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">daypack</span> that morning, and the duct tape and cord are part of an essential kit that I carry for just such problems. It would take forever to regale you with all my experiences and anecdotes that have led me to carry all that I do. You'll have to take my word for it now and email me with questions if you like further explanation.<br /><br />Here's a list of what I carry:<br /><ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Daypack</span>:</span> 2000-3000 cu/in with a thick waist belt and shoulder straps. I prefer a panel loading design with accessory pockets and lashing straps to keep everything organized.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shell Jacket:</span> a waterproof, breathable parka to keep rain and wind at bay</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Insulating jacket:</span> a polyester fleece jacket that will keep you warm even if soaking wet, to be layered under the shell parka.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Clothing extras:</span> a wool or poly fleece hat, spare pair of socks, bandannas, gaiters if the trail is muddy or snowy, gloves.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Water:</span> I use a 3 liter hydration system, and bring at least 2-4 liters extra. In the hot months on a strenuous climb I plan for at least 1 liter per two miles. I also bring along a water purification system to be able to treat more water as we go.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Food:</span> trail food should be high in calorie - especially in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">carbs</span> for energy - and you should have more than enough to get through the day. You should also plan on enough to ration you through at least another full day in case something happens and you are forced to spend the night. Trail mix is an obvious choice, but beef jerky, power bars, cheese, pepperoni, summer sausage, all make great trail food.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Headlamp/Flashlight:</span> inevitably, you will find yourself needing to start in the early morning hours or end up losing daylight at the end of a hike. A flashlight is nice, but a headlamp is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">incredibly</span> more convenient. Remember, the forest canopy will add about an hour of darkness to both sunrise and sunset.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trail book and map with compass:</span> It doesn't take long to learn how to use a compass with your map, and your map is useless if you don't know which direction you're facing. Mine come with me regardless of how well groomed the trails are.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Personal items: </span>things like bug repellent, hand lotion, lip balm, sun screen, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">purel</span> hand sanitizer, tissues.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Medications:</span> In a medium sized pill bottle I carry a few doses each of these medications - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">motrin</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">excedrin</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">sudafed</span>, and regular <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">tylenol</span> for aches, pains, sinus headaches; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">pepcid</span> complete tabs, gas-ex, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">imodium</span> for stomach problems; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Benedryl</span> for allergic reactions</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hiking/Trekking poles:</span> like ski poles, most are adjustable and have a smaller basket to help with mud. You'll be amazed how well these things will save your knees and allow you to move quicker. Granted, I look like a hiking praying mantis with them, but they are a joint saver. And they can be used to splint a broken leg or hold up a temporary shelter if need be.<br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Essentials Kit:</span> the magical bag! I will break down the essentials kit below...</li></ol><br />The Essentials Kit is a grouping of various sub kits all kept in a small stuff sack:<br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">First aid kit:</span> very basic, it has <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">bandaids</span>, gauze pads, mole skin, an ace bandage, some antibiotic ointment, alcohol pads</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Emergency overnight kit:</span> a tube tent, a pair of space blankets, matches in a waterproof container, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">firestarter</span> sticks, an emergency whistle </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">A basic repair kit: </span>a length of nylon cord, a backpacking roll of duct tape, safety pins, a needle and spool of black thread</li><li style="font-weight: bold;">A <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">leatherman</span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">swiss</span> army knife</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Water Treatment system:</span> I currently have a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Steri</span>-pen ultraviolet water purifier, but have also used a couple of other small micron filters. If you can stand the taste of iodine, you can carry potable aqua tabs.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Toilet paper:</span> for when nature calls while out in nature. remember to bury it...</li></ul>So that's it. When all is said and done, my pack is 20-30 pounds for a long day hike, depending on how much water and food I'm carrying. Yup, it's a lot and probably overkill, but you never know when your boots are going to fall apart, or something. I can say that everything on that list has been used on the trail, with the exception of the emergency overnight kit. That kit was set up because of one hike where a knee injury slowed us enough that we were almost forced into an emergency camp out on the mountain (an earlier Algonquin climb, ironically). Nothing like getting caught out in the woods when the night time temperatures were dropping into the 20's. So, when it comes to packing your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">daypack</span>, the best thing you can do is follow the Boy Scout Motto - Be Prepared.<br /><br />Happy hiking,<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Muddler</span>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-24832000649166069242009-08-16T09:07:00.000-07:002009-08-19T14:00:52.058-07:00Whiteface Hike, 2009<span style="font-style: italic;">"You're traveling through another dimension -- a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of imagination (and various trail landmarks). That's a signpost up ahead: your next stop: the Tourist Zone!"</span><br /><br />The pictures:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157621930041145/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157621930041145/</a><br /><br />OK, so I have to first come clean. If it wasn't for all the touristy stuff at the summit of Whiteface, I would have never found the love I have for the Adirondack High Peaks in the first place. I do have to say that even as a kid I did climb the two tenths of a mile to the summit from the parking area. It wasn't just the view that enthralled me, but rather the hikers that appeared out of no where from one of the summit trails. I was most impressed with their achievement, and I'm sure they enjoyed every bit of the awe I expressed to them. One day, I would hope that such a favor would be returned.<br /><br />When Deb and I first climbed Whiteface and Esther, it was on a very overcast day with the summits blanketed in clouds. Because of the weather, they weren't allowing tourists up the Whiteface Memorial Highway. Despite the "above the clouds" view we got at the summit, we had shared it with only two weather scientists stationed at the research center. When we returned with Nick and Angela a couple of years later, life came full circle. We approached the summit to cheers, congratulations, and - as I expressed over two decades before - looks of awe from those who had driven to the top. And now here I am, another decade beyond that climb, with high hopes for this new group of climbers to have the same life affirming experience. Well......<br /><br />It was an early start for all of us. But, unlike the Algonquin hike, I was the only one who got adequate sleep. The drive was ripe with anticipation and the breakfast at Howard Johnson's quick. We started on the trail by 8:30am, and walked promptly into the annoyingly steep mile long hike up Marble Mountain. After a stop for pictures and bug spray we pressed on. The trail continued it's steep ascent along the ridge of Lookout Mountain and it seemed like forever before we came up to the Esther trail junction. Only a couple of miles to go. Paul and I caught up with Matt, Frank, and Erin at a newly cleared ski run. It didn't seem like much longer and we were at the base of the highway retaining wall. I knew it would prove irresistible to Frank and Matt. I figured they would try to climb it. And, true to form, Frank got kinda.....stuck. Yes, it was pretty funny.<br /><br />The final ridge walk to the summit was spectacular, despite the man-made reminders everywhere. The mountain falls away down into the valley with Little Whiteface and the ski center dramatically. It actually plays with your eyes, and pictures do not do it justice. Paul and I heard cheers from the tourists as our younger hikers rounded the corner past the summit buildings a few hundred yards ahead of us. As we approached, we were met by a couple from Florida with whom we had a very pleasant conversation with. But then, we dropped our packs in the middle of the zoo. Holy cow. Easily, over 100 people on the summit, all clambering to get their picture taken next to the quaintly, mountain-shaped summit marker. College girls doing yoga. A party for a 46er who just finished his 23rd round of the 46. Babies crying. A kid on crutches. All of this wouldn't been too bad, except that certain members of our group actually suffered dirty looks over a little mud and sweat while in the gift shop line from clean, pressed, and arrogant motorists. It takes all kinds...<br /><br />After about an hour of the chaos and a couple of cold drinks we started back. Esther proved to be better than I remembered. The big bog in the col between Lookout mountain and Esther now has some narrow log bridges to help negotiate it. The hike down was exhaustively long. Marble mountain proved just plain painful. As we disrobed our gear, I was relieved to find my toes still intact. I have to agree with Matt, that - all in all - this trail was really pleasant hiking. Even the mud was better than what we dealt with on Algonquin.<br /><br />The burgers were tasty at R.F. McDougall's on the way home. Considering everyone except for me got only 3-4 hours of sleep before this 11 mile hike that included 4 mountains, 2 above 4000 feet. Way to go, guys.Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-6007650633211608112009-08-04T06:37:00.000-07:002009-08-09T09:25:07.956-07:00Algonquin Hike, 2009<!--[endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">I came. I saw. The mountain kicked my ass.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">Lately, it's been a challenge to post a large amount of pictures with my posts. So, to see the pictures from the hike, feel free to link to my Flickr photo set of the hike:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157621932444248/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/7231131@N04/sets/72157621932444248/</a><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">So, into the fray I go….<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">My <st1:place st="on">Adirondack</st1:place> 46er quest began long ago. A product of a childhood love and fascination with the <st1:place st="on">Adirondack</st1:place> high peaks, I was nudged into the journey by a patient of mine from about 20 years ago. Over the last two decades I’ve stood atop 10 of the 46 original “high peaks” – most of them more than once. Since I ruptured a disc 4 years ago, I’ve been out of commission when it came to high peak hikes. This was mostly due to my own fears. Sometimes when life gives you a really good kick in the ass, it’s easy to let the fragility engulf you.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">For those of you who aren’t familiar with the 46ers, I’ll bring you up to speed. On one of the original <st1:place st="on">Adirondack</st1:place> geological surveys, there were 46 of the mountains that were over 4000 feet in elevation. Since those who climb mountains often have to find obscure reasons to explain why they desire to do so, the idea of a challenge to climb all the peaks above 4000 feet sounded good enough. Ironically, the survey was redone in the 70’s and found that 4 of the peaks were actually under 4000 feet, and one mountain that was previously believed to be under the 4000 foot benchmark – MacNaughton - was exactly 4000 feet. The original 46 list held despite the new information. Naturally, no self respecting 46er would accept such honors without also climbing MacNaughton….despite the “rules”.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">Back to the quest. Sometime in the beginning of this year I was able to shed the apprehensions of past injuries and lose some weight. Time to get back to the task at hand. With my nephew Frank going off to college this fall, I felt some urgency in getting him up Algonquin – a peak that sparked his interest back 5 years ago when we climbed Marcy with his dad and cousin Matt. Paul couldn’t make it for this trip, but Matt was really eager to get back to the Adirondacks. It’s definitely in Matt’s blood – he can’t help it. Unfortunately, this will probably be the only peak I can climb with Frank this year, but Paul and Matt will be along for two other hikes.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">The guys stayed overnight at the house so we could get an early start in the morning. Despite the disappearance of the Denny’s in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Watertown</st1:place></st1:city>, we managed a quick and decent drive to the Adirondack Loj and were on the trail by 7:30am. As I expected, I was fine until I had to start going uphill. We made it to the big waterfall in good time, and after a rest break I released Matt and Frank to go on ahead of their gasping and wheezing uncle and go hike Wright peak. Been there, done that anyway. About to the 3 mile mark, I started feeling like I was walking in flip-flops. Crap. I guess even a really nice pair of hiking boots will fall apart after 20 years. I pulled out the duct tape and did my best to put the pieces of my footwear back together. This will prove to be more than just an inconvenience as the day wore on. Eventually, it would slow us down so much that we finished the hike as dusk closed in around us. I met up with the guys at timberline and we continued to Algonquin's summit. Yup. Just as I remembered it. Don’t get me wrong, it’s absolutely beautiful up there but a little crowded on an August day. Still, there’s a surreal, “different country” feel that can’t be explained. 12:30pm. Not bad considering I’m old, fat, out of shape, and losing the soles of my boots.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">At this point, I’m not sure that I didn’t go from being a die-hard hiker to just an idiot. I mean, there was Iroquois just over <st1:place st="on">Boundary Peak</st1:place>. It didn’t look far. How hard could it be? Well, when your boots are being held together by duct tape and cord it could prove to be harder than it looked. Yup. That trail sucked. Granted, it wasn’t a maintained trail so I have no one to blame, but man! In most places the trail was only about a foot wide through thick scrub that did a number on your arms and legs. When it did open up, it was usually because no plants could survive in that depth of mud. We got a great look at the trap dyke on <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">Mt.</st1:placetype> <st1:placename st="on">Colden</st1:placename></st1:place> from Iroquois peak and headed back after a little break. I got so tired that I just walked right through the ankle deep mud instead of the rock-branch-mud-slip ballet we usually do.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">There was really only one point that I actually got nervous about my safe return. The gravity of the boot debacle became more annoying over worrisome as the comments from fellow hikers rolled in. If I had to hear one more crack about how my boots had seen better days or how lucky I was that I had duct tape (although I would think “smart” was more like it – it wasn’t like someone packed my daypack for me). I think one couple felt my icy lack of amusement when the husband prodded the wife to take a picture of my boots. It was good spirited, but not really what I wanted to hear at that point.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">Did I mention that we ended up with a beautiful day and Frank and Matt logged in three new peaks? We had a really good time, sharing a whole lot more with each other than any of us probably expected. I survived better than I expected, although I did take the next two days off from work because the trauma my feet suffered and over all sore muscles. Yup. It’s good to be back in the high peaks again. See you in two weeks.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="">A VERY muddy muddler<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" face="verdana"></p>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-2603164677622143022009-08-04T05:48:00.000-07:002009-08-04T06:35:49.050-07:00White fly patterns - Could we have a winner ???<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAOrl6iCPuBEwJ6RivkzjuVXINLzuYabJb7aJJsrKDvDMuaEbnmUQwnwa1if9FpAclD9FQzo9URMd5aDKooYkRWWawl_AEcl-dLdTi9et3RHh8XQ7IRExny77rZaWjcgSAlv3Pvp8axA/s1600-h/C__DOCUME~1_ADMINI~1_LOCALS~1_Temp__004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAOrl6iCPuBEwJ6RivkzjuVXINLzuYabJb7aJJsrKDvDMuaEbnmUQwnwa1if9FpAclD9FQzo9URMd5aDKooYkRWWawl_AEcl-dLdTi9et3RHh8XQ7IRExny77rZaWjcgSAlv3Pvp8axA/s200/C__DOCUME~1_ADMINI~1_LOCALS~1_Temp__004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366101381204673010" border="0" /></a><br />You've probably heard of fabled insect hatches across the country. For some eastern rivers it's Hendricksons and Green Drakes. In the mid west it might be Hexagenias. Out west you have Salmonflies and San Juan Worms (ok, just kidding on the worms). But in my little neck of the woods - the West Canada Creek to be exact - we have a little known mayfly called the white fly. Also known as the white miner, the white fly is in the drake family of mayflies. It's cousins are the green drake, brown drake, golden drake, and the hexagenia limbata. Those mayflies tend to be the largest of the stream born mayflies, living in the slower, silty areas of the river. The white fly is the smallest of the group, ranging in the #12 size. Adding to the white fly's mystique is that it's common to have a prolific population in one river and be non existent in another similar river a few miles away.<br /><br />The white fly hatch is also a little...well....unique. The hatch starts in the later half of August and runs through the first week or so of September. What makes it unique is that it will start down stream initially, and every day work it's way up river. The trick is being on the water in the right spot at the right time to catch the hatch. And I do mean HATCH. I would say that of all the hatches I've experienced, the white fly hatch - when I get it right - is truly a "blanket" hatch. It can be awe inspiring. You're fishing, the sun is going down, and suddenly you notice a bunch of ghostly, grayish white mayflies silently flying up stream. They hatch out of the water and into flight so quickly that you rarely see one actually coming out of the water. It can get so thick that it reminds me of snow being blown in a cross wind in front of your face.<br /><br />As with any prolific hatch, the curse is that the fish have too much food to feed on. You may make the perfect presentation with the perfect fly and the fish will simply slurp the surrounding flies because they're everywhere. Naturally, we blame the fly and come up with new patterns every summer to do battle with. This year is no exception:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=578">http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=578</a><br /><a href="http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=580">http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=580</a><br /><a href="http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=581">http://www.jprossflyrods.com/staff/the_deanes_list/entry.php?id=581</a><br /><br />Back to the tying vise. I'll see you on the water...Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-66243065651359932352009-08-04T04:53:00.000-07:002009-08-04T05:46:20.377-07:00July 13th: Evening on West Canada<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8O341heNuY3143DTFJ_y8TzkFn3IMbfIPn77iHvIIca28vcPSR5qSQvaJGobkFJSknAXd20NwnigulZRJEVsfKPilS5LnaL6hUWPm2NOHbryz120ZPdrDjNE5n9NQDRr4BzjpVe98YQ/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8O341heNuY3143DTFJ_y8TzkFn3IMbfIPn77iHvIIca28vcPSR5qSQvaJGobkFJSknAXd20NwnigulZRJEVsfKPilS5LnaL6hUWPm2NOHbryz120ZPdrDjNE5n9NQDRr4BzjpVe98YQ/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366075878665118626" border="0" /></a>You know you have a good friend when they sacrifice themselves as a reason to go fishing. I mean, I've had some perfect days to go fishing on my own, but the guilt of getting the "to-do" list done holds me back all too often. On the other hand, if my friend wants to go fishing then I'm obliged. It's kind of a law of nature or something.<br /><br />There's too much nice water on West Canada Creek. I can't stress that enough. Even when <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4M3SS5SjWhI3-COHZO58mxEbd_ud3_tTfcFGLI24xMf2RAFEgsxeBQGAZEU71hhC1KRvd4KYUy561P1P1h5hJeLs1mmLSR3ZPh_wD-EQNu5PAWm8JKLqHd0wJoII55lZLOtOma8FR40/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4M3SS5SjWhI3-COHZO58mxEbd_ud3_tTfcFGLI24xMf2RAFEgsxeBQGAZEU71hhC1KRvd4KYUy561P1P1h5hJeLs1mmLSR3ZPh_wD-EQNu5PAWm8JKLqHd0wJoII55lZLOtOma8FR40/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366075869318602370" border="0" /></a>the fish don't comply, it's still really fishy water. We decided to try out the "yellow gate" run - a designated parking/fishing spot down the road from the catch and release section on route 28. You can't miss it. An average sized barn really close to the road and a small dirt drive - through a yellow gate, of course - to a quiet parking area and a few small trails to the water. The river is wide here, and deceptively fast. We only had a couple of hours on the water, and the fish weren't really into taking our flies. Near the end of the night, there was a decent light cahill hatch that got some fish rising. Once again, I hooked up on a fish that wasn't a typical resident of this area of the river. I landed an 8 inch brook trout. Go figure. T<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtr5ltMteAC9G_itr2MS7ysBAjwx-0TyzixjdEngPHu2rO2Rx-Mor48kvIag9mXyPKb6Dz2V3fpZIxVFR8T-7nYwTerGXDCdUPYyrjgYHqDxX_I3i6QZY_u9_paI_6I7W8VJfvMIDtkg/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtr5ltMteAC9G_itr2MS7ysBAjwx-0TyzixjdEngPHu2rO2Rx-Mor48kvIag9mXyPKb6Dz2V3fpZIxVFR8T-7nYwTerGXDCdUPYyrjgYHqDxX_I3i6QZY_u9_paI_6I7W8VJfvMIDtkg/s200/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366075881562224690" border="0" /></a>he water was 62 degrees, and the air felt about the same. Oh well, not a great catching day again, but good to get out. The beer was cold and the wings hot at the Hotel Moore on the way home. y the way, they run a Monday night special - a pitcher of beer and 24 wings for $11.95.Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-57369260681994564922009-08-04T04:14:00.000-07:002009-08-04T04:52:41.935-07:00June 20th: The Litte River<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKHu2GI0D3QrcntDWk5Yz4imkdj21OnQ4Ouga-8rBwfh1cvWNUkj2JxYVVzo6AFX1iD2UCNKFpe60ZX8NeyyG2J8FY_Vwy3CwDMMfAn17MoJGtwgrh0tBEGYT55cU1JggjDgdFbJvf0c/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKHu2GI0D3QrcntDWk5Yz4imkdj21OnQ4Ouga-8rBwfh1cvWNUkj2JxYVVzo6AFX1iD2UCNKFpe60ZX8NeyyG2J8FY_Vwy3CwDMMfAn17MoJGtwgrh0tBEGYT55cU1JggjDgdFbJvf0c/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067018235494338" border="0" /></a>So, Bob had his eye on The Little River for a while now. It's about a 15-20minute drive from his camp outside of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Pticarin</span>, NY. Route 3 crosses over it, and from the road it looked like pretty sweet H2O. We actually fished it at an area where we had to hike in about 1/2 mile to get to the river - granted it felt more like a mile on the way out. Also, I am not allowed to disclose the exact location of the parking spot and the trail to the river. If you want to check it out, I'd be happy to take you up there some time........but then I'd have to kill you, of course. Sorry, not my rules.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ppBF7zxvt-IRhbj_zXSBTTuVc-e_h-AOuGLYMI5k_hvqbGywayiXURm__Q-W18IZ8KQ-6zowiYWEYM77OPqozVhm-AzNKoebPVAbfUUJhLJbs7vBu-dFO-rhWwt94zJcgxS7pHFcRBw/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ppBF7zxvt-IRhbj_zXSBTTuVc-e_h-AOuGLYMI5k_hvqbGywayiXURm__Q-W18IZ8KQ-6zowiYWEYM77OPqozVhm-AzNKoebPVAbfUUJhLJbs7vBu-dFO-rhWwt94zJcgxS7pHFcRBw/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067024494687682" border="0" /></a><br />This was my first time packing in my gear to a fishing spot. I know you westerners do it all the time, but we easterners are usually spoiled with...roads. Still, it was nice to get off the beaten track. The river is on the small size for a river, more like a large stream in some areas. The promise of native brook trout kept those quirky smiles on our faces as we geared up. Given that this was a typical Adirondack river, the wading was pretty easy. The fishing was slow at first, but then Bob got things going with a couple of hook ups. I <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7kQ2AFJA06rcbd9TGAIECa4hcwixAbENTt1-qoXBMd_bFwDlVRLZfaDL1ZSlxgS-Jgd62g8orc2U6r3GLUpHbE6PE5yx5LQlyo7DY5XVm6wJZFsFYdkw7Gssp9d8Ml1HX5to9qIFs9M/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7kQ2AFJA06rcbd9TGAIECa4hcwixAbENTt1-qoXBMd_bFwDlVRLZfaDL1ZSlxgS-Jgd62g8orc2U6r3GLUpHbE6PE5yx5LQlyo7DY5XVm6wJZFsFYdkw7Gssp9d8Ml1HX5to9qIFs9M/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067032759848402" border="0" /></a>had luck on a big, bushy Adams <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wulff</span>. All in all, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">brookies</span> were small but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">accomodating</span>. After lunch we were welcomed back to the river by a couple of ravens as we worked our way down stream. The fishing slowed but the relaxation was abundant. At one point I just sat down on a rock in the middle of the river and took it all in. Not a banner day of catching, but add in the Adirondack setting and just plain beautiful water and it was a great day. We packed out in the late afternoon and joined our wives back at the camp for a cocktail. Finishing out the day with Bob and Karen's family proved to be as fun as usual. It's amazing to me how one, day-long outing can feel like a f<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFeKVxH9hVj24byQSogDOz4OOItnPiDIeLnVBrIyNO5njXUl1mAL95wxDUjejb9GwhXOaykTrroaZZCzPPwVIJh-ia2Ec9jvItuc32RVS4DmiEEbHQiWYqSDQTMGDDFo8fUHFIdJ8l1g/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFeKVxH9hVj24byQSogDOz4OOItnPiDIeLnVBrIyNO5njXUl1mAL95wxDUjejb9GwhXOaykTrroaZZCzPPwVIJh-ia2Ec9jvItuc32RVS4DmiEEbHQiWYqSDQTMGDDFo8fUHFIdJ8l1g/s200/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067037661584082" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ull</span> weekend.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5U-cbi63H8pKwLEnpCtcH6cdc_12Ve-MNc-isvVft2kNBkCP4a4i-dMPY-dx4bV5hTvvPzwshK3FXe3f2YztyC-Fuw4Zr_ROOei7uMJ_mpCHUArOGuIAqc3FNfYtSmuWAM9MIJRguek/s1600-h/009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5U-cbi63H8pKwLEnpCtcH6cdc_12Ve-MNc-isvVft2kNBkCP4a4i-dMPY-dx4bV5hTvvPzwshK3FXe3f2YztyC-Fuw4Zr_ROOei7uMJ_mpCHUArOGuIAqc3FNfYtSmuWAM9MIJRguek/s200/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067319064525746" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPMuweHZD19F8_CQ_izbb7caHPPALuq_LSqsBtwrJ4xHImOHF3JxXE9lkQQ8_XcJAwFhqspyolgEpz6cfvajhd0_S4oTSBFn4KUL8wZ2dir2ZACh7IFndoSvpUDQZq9e3TjyTy5rCCdk/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPMuweHZD19F8_CQ_izbb7caHPPALuq_LSqsBtwrJ4xHImOHF3JxXE9lkQQ8_XcJAwFhqspyolgEpz6cfvajhd0_S4oTSBFn4KUL8wZ2dir2ZACh7IFndoSvpUDQZq9e3TjyTy5rCCdk/s200/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067019350812066" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI-GVjcSZzRGVg29fgFctJeXQBVjZbIKRD8tEL_sOddLqPXJYj9HY5Rufz_pGUhzD0m3iv4gtL-tt3lco9q5maWV2bar1ElBXmhwtwZf3ywtfdDN8aqu3bf0nO33aTU9bwsCUTcRQ2jY/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI-GVjcSZzRGVg29fgFctJeXQBVjZbIKRD8tEL_sOddLqPXJYj9HY5Rufz_pGUhzD0m3iv4gtL-tt3lco9q5maWV2bar1ElBXmhwtwZf3ywtfdDN8aqu3bf0nO33aTU9bwsCUTcRQ2jY/s200/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366067313685281250" border="0" /></a>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-823431156135740092009-06-07T06:01:00.000-07:002009-06-07T08:15:05.860-07:00June 6th, 2009: The Black River with Bob's TU buddies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YdZHyWjo-jBbP9OMMDBJlPwPtX-I-rCbcpWGNMXgeN8httlVrlT4YlOVtDssAJd1tfo8IQQqQNA3UC_-BN1RhN1rJDLUVU8NVARhltimV8OU42h7sZkdwzemA1Oce_Y7OzaSDucRNJs/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YdZHyWjo-jBbP9OMMDBJlPwPtX-I-rCbcpWGNMXgeN8httlVrlT4YlOVtDssAJd1tfo8IQQqQNA3UC_-BN1RhN1rJDLUVU8NVARhltimV8OU42h7sZkdwzemA1Oce_Y7OzaSDucRNJs/s200/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582581425989058" border="0" /></a><br />5:30 am. Bob and Karen's house. Good coffee. Nice Landscaping stones. Probably a little too early.<br /><br />7:00 am. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Boonville</span> Burger King. Crap. Still too early. More coffee.<br /><br />7:30 am. Bob's TU buddies are all on time, and it's on to the Black River. We drove down into <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hawkinsville</span> and took <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Edmonds</span> Road to the closed bridge and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">impromptu</span> parking/picnic area. It was <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjo7bjMWuTRBauVYo9p2D_qdXArGkIwCBBhLwUWOGmP9elybEWw_U1Md1yMY541t_gqbhGVmiQxkTFDoSEUOISihcBWUlM1BzHzy8xUos_ZYNeNHy4a2R7TSmwke_kXeTy3ku2dqBsKwc/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjo7bjMWuTRBauVYo9p2D_qdXArGkIwCBBhLwUWOGmP9elybEWw_U1Md1yMY541t_gqbhGVmiQxkTFDoSEUOISihcBWUlM1BzHzy8xUos_ZYNeNHy4a2R7TSmwke_kXeTy3ku2dqBsKwc/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582586824759074" border="0" /></a>here that Dave planned to set up lunch in the afternoon. Bob gave a quick rundown of the waters and fly strategy for the day as I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">sluthed</span> the hatches and bug activity on the bridge. Bob wanted to hike up stream a half a mile and work our way back to the bridge. It sounded like a good idea, but I wish I looked at a topographical map first. I'm sure that the deer and imaginary mountain goats handled the trail fine, but I was petrified. Nothing like a 1 foot wide trail of sand and rotted wood on a 45 degree incline sloping down 50 or 60 feet to the river below. Mom? Thanks for buying me the "studded" <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Simm's</span> Freestones.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6iuU7_lmjPpHoWRCtZodepPTgE7wpfiGI6Tpm1EGkAl_OZ6IZQSu1L9Y01WfcdtNG9BjUnHRFz59OqDAPxBinYI1gqe9BzPm0WS_hn9lgPmn6HcHAnIDhb09QTyEcrIMFZda0JJtCsk/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6iuU7_lmjPpHoWRCtZodepPTgE7wpfiGI6Tpm1EGkAl_OZ6IZQSu1L9Y01WfcdtNG9BjUnHRFz59OqDAPxBinYI1gqe9BzPm0WS_hn9lgPmn6HcHAnIDhb09QTyEcrIMFZda0JJtCsk/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582594810267410" border="0" /></a><br /><br />By about the 1/4 mile mark the trail got off of the "cliff" and leveled out into a bog area. Although there were posted signs, there was also a public fishing sign among them. Naturally, we followed the instructions of the public access sign. Let me just say that this river is beautiful. And <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">incredibly</span> fishy.And very fisherman friendly in access, casting clearance, and even stream bed traction. It just made you want to explore all day, because around every bend was even more nice water. The day's statistics: air temps in the upper 60's to low 70's, water temps from 60 to 66, and the water level was low and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">cle</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxqMv5HoNPDy59JQZlb7QvvNqRg1i459MQPP2dWqxAAcvZ8hPStODzcijK4yTfde3KkijgGs0amlPCxGdEXBDsp-gl64l12qjGLYeeZHx2tCuQwpxx6YYZ5jleWKKbMULMrf_M7eRsLw/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxqMv5HoNPDy59JQZlb7QvvNqRg1i459MQPP2dWqxAAcvZ8hPStODzcijK4yTfde3KkijgGs0amlPCxGdEXBDsp-gl64l12qjGLYeeZHx2tCuQwpxx6YYZ5jleWKKbMULMrf_M7eRsLw/s200/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582608385457202" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ar</span>. We found a smooth pool book-ended with some pleasant riffles with fish rising. I hooked up on one but found the fish to be all too picky. We continued down through the pocket water. Bob brought up a small mouth bass and lost a nice fish. I landed a few more small <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">stockies</span> and lost a few flies in the process. Despite the multitude of hatches, the key was skittering a bushy fly through the pockets. There really was too much nice water to cover and it was getting to be lunch time.<br /><br />Lunch was great. Thanks Dave for cooking and organizing. Thanks everyone for all the food. If only we had some chopped onions to go with the burgers...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7cN1nSVbbBv66-NlJZi6KT5471kNeyU9lgdHUegcSzaPYE_0iFsA-9ZBbDkzQ2zLm9Q0MKD32HqxWUUDsIf0Ue0Pz2STpDG4JsBIJjkuTV0y3pXH_1PW2V5gZ7YHgRm6fuWOLo-Ymzo/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7cN1nSVbbBv66-NlJZi6KT5471kNeyU9lgdHUegcSzaPYE_0iFsA-9ZBbDkzQ2zLm9Q0MKD32HqxWUUDsIf0Ue0Pz2STpDG4JsBIJjkuTV0y3pXH_1PW2V5gZ7YHgRm6fuWOLo-Ymzo/s200/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582961122650178" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We decided to finish out the day at the pool below the bridge. Figuring out what they were feeding on proved to be difficult at first, because there were a few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">caddis</span> and midge species about, as well as march browns, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">cornuta</span> olives, light <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">cahills</span>, and quill <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">gordons</span> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">various</span> stages <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">throughout</span> the day. Once Bob got a rusty spinner on it was obvious what they were taking. I just want to go on record as saying that although I lost count of how many fish I caught, I really didn't catch that many ;)<br /><br />As usual, a great day with the guys. The Black River did not <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">disappoint</span> today.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gunryqxiwpzac0nT6Gzw7ziXV_6k2Luz44EZJtyH9fH75tChJl4ebQMe8v38RvCBQou5_GEwMxHtZYBSdrKmognvI0dz3iknwWAdj22Xiyy1pM_qCUc8uaMMjIaAEcxuUY3BrzRenfo/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gunryqxiwpzac0nT6Gzw7ziXV_6k2Luz44EZJtyH9fH75tChJl4ebQMe8v38RvCBQou5_GEwMxHtZYBSdrKmognvI0dz3iknwWAdj22Xiyy1pM_qCUc8uaMMjIaAEcxuUY3BrzRenfo/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582970306665970" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Muddler</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NmyBnnrzOAUl0WKA0ikODyLfmAUKt0bW9TZFidIcd23_V84sPEXVbgOgOwPOowZK8A0MVQSduZ4viYlsYIMWUS2CoJY0H42exR0OmEk0SEpIKoU9hupqYeD4LwvGhmeJJAcL-yTLUvs/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NmyBnnrzOAUl0WKA0ikODyLfmAUKt0bW9TZFidIcd23_V84sPEXVbgOgOwPOowZK8A0MVQSduZ4viYlsYIMWUS2CoJY0H42exR0OmEk0SEpIKoU9hupqYeD4LwvGhmeJJAcL-yTLUvs/s200/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344582970113221698" border="0" /></a>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-12649435999841425622009-06-07T04:56:00.000-07:002009-06-07T06:01:07.618-07:00May 23rd continued...OK, so I got too wrapped up with trying to post the pictures and lost track of the actual story. Here's the recap of the day...<br /><br />Bob had discovered this upper section of the East Branch of Fish Creek on a recon mission disguised as a rock quest for his wife Karen's landscaping projects. Bob is cunning like that, and he has a super-human ability of looking on a map and being able to visualize how nice a body of water looks. Too bad his telepathic powers don't allow him to get into the minds of the trout. It would've helped that morning. The East Branch of Fish Creek is beautiful, but the brook trout didn't get the memo that they were supposed to feed ravenously on what ever I threw at them. I'm sure it was a problem with the DEC home offices, because the brook trout on the upper West Canada Creek didn't get the memo either. I mean, they're brook trout for God's sake. They don't get as big and aren"t as hardy as other trout species (I know - they're actually a char and not a trout, but for argument sake stay with me). The only thing going for them is their vibrant colors and the penchant for eating any fly thrown in front of them. Stupid fish, jeesh....<br /><br />So, Bob hooked up on a brookie and I had two hits but no takers. Time for an early lunch and then on to the upper West Canada Creek. Wow. Beautiful water...again. Stupid brook trout...again. Bob brought up 4 more. I couldn't even get a hit on a wooly bugger. Hmmm. Maybe I'm underestimating Bob's telepathic powers. Fortunately, the black flies were everywhere, making the experience even more enjoying. If it wasn't such a beautiful place and my favorite river, I might have gotten a little discouraged. OK...well.....how about the lower West Canada.....<br /><br />We decided to try a few spots on the lower West Canada that had been mentioned in Paul Keesler's book. First spot? McDiermid's run. We followed the map in the book to the access trail. Wait.......no trail? Posted? Crap. OK.... well.......how about Powers Bend? Ah-ha! No black flies! smart stockies that hit most flies and strike indicators for good measure! Woot!! Both Bob and I scored doubles - meaning a fish on the indicator fly and one on the dropper fly at the same time. We both lost count of how many smart stocked browns we caught. Bob even got into a nice 16 incher.<br /><br />We took a break to rest our backs, grab a bite to eat, and call the wives. Had a nice conversation with a guy vacationing in the area, and lost the pool to some spin fishermen that descended on the spot like raccoons to road kill. Oh well. We decided to finish out the day at the run below the Trenton Falls bridge. No other fishermen there - go figure. A Saturday night on Memorial Day weekend and we had it all to ourselves. We both got into some decent fish, including a 16 inch rainbow trout that slammed a golden stone nymph I was swinging through the run.<br /><br />All in all, a great day. A little slow at first, but the good old West Canada Creek saved the day. Too bad about Fish Creek, but something tells me we'll be back. It looks too good to only fish once....<br /><br />Tight Lines,<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-32142351163898146852009-05-26T09:09:00.000-07:002009-06-07T04:56:02.138-07:00May 23, 2009: black flies, an unusual catch, and do stocked fish really count?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNnFrbuPHNMlpQaHAvnz8iVyWUxUsTwMD4xNglyAhWAZKRfiTdNC2f15SAYO25d8V_2zm3X5hMIZyIWsoEmg9J9K0f-j3GUz9Uebu8uhXJ79_-OK-NpceLd7FLcVHTG9c1BMV4xUkmuM/s1600-h/001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNnFrbuPHNMlpQaHAvnz8iVyWUxUsTwMD4xNglyAhWAZKRfiTdNC2f15SAYO25d8V_2zm3X5hMIZyIWsoEmg9J9K0f-j3GUz9Uebu8uhXJ79_-OK-NpceLd7FLcVHTG9c1BMV4xUkmuM/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340526260404793138" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqp54rh6ZSPMdQeIkqNmTywK-zZD82tZaXYwM0xZXAKYJVjY7g4CfdEKAPOX-3YjCK_yG97yOtJ0uHXZRBZ7YcUnKnYsLNqmDR6Aexi60PxKqnVuW0H7Q-zf6X2Ajbem6fy-yTdm8Ayw/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqp54rh6ZSPMdQeIkqNmTywK-zZD82tZaXYwM0xZXAKYJVjY7g4CfdEKAPOX-3YjCK_yG97yOtJ0uHXZRBZ7YcUnKnYsLNqmDR6Aexi60PxKqnVuW0H7Q-zf6X2Ajbem6fy-yTdm8Ayw/s200/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340526246905370114" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAmqRas9dVVdCFeoX295NlXNSiZz1Gpu4PT_HKtkYhigJh6Qrn2zjDhaDteDo5p8SrL65uLxd-E2ZdkJh4iddbgALHD_nNc4XZSnbTSfLUIgjdSLTp7pwLElRUPk6sk_-dvN9dmSQD-E/s1600-h/002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAmqRas9dVVdCFeoX295NlXNSiZz1Gpu4PT_HKtkYhigJh6Qrn2zjDhaDteDo5p8SrL65uLxd-E2ZdkJh4iddbgALHD_nNc4XZSnbTSfLUIgjdSLTp7pwLElRUPk6sk_-dvN9dmSQD-E/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340526255128536898" border="0" /></a>unfortunately, my picture posting skills need refinement. Here's a bunch of pictures from the last trip. I will post an entry about the trip in the next post. A quick breakdown - the first group of pics are from the East branch of Fish Creek, the next group is from the upper West Canada, and the last is the West Canada in the no kill sections ( powers bend and below the Trenton Falls dam to be exact).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkObPHbHTNuaX9ZAaGBrWCrTGrSU41JybPPpjJVMUe5F9EqAkxxr7GJVXP9J7AvVWeLN8xa-FKW6FrcAf3BFb-r11T_gp-3ByjLUJfSwOBeh6Pyf_soAKUonZahaWtmEZdljQHW1hmMOM/s1600-h/005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkObPHbHTNuaX9ZAaGBrWCrTGrSU41JybPPpjJVMUe5F9EqAkxxr7GJVXP9J7AvVWeLN8xa-FKW6FrcAf3BFb-r11T_gp-3ByjLUJfSwOBeh6Pyf_soAKUonZahaWtmEZdljQHW1hmMOM/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525689124184226" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyhdWdH9IZFpaYC86wj_FiWJRfMN39Wq4hm3QujOwS-8MXQwDkKPirTKyrjohLSivA58j8ZpjzhMLksgfAhCU5FsdVij2wijyH5jRrdPPyUxPY1_2KQkE9Ii_N8zjXr-CGlSXJ64ZpGA/s1600-h/006.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyhdWdH9IZFpaYC86wj_FiWJRfMN39Wq4hm3QujOwS-8MXQwDkKPirTKyrjohLSivA58j8ZpjzhMLksgfAhCU5FsdVij2wijyH5jRrdPPyUxPY1_2KQkE9Ii_N8zjXr-CGlSXJ64ZpGA/s200/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525683800906146" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NGgoRk0KHAFljMSrRWvWRcVWI4xqmg6CYhHFPzNtmOCwEiaJSehh6bBV7VxcBbGa6cPDEhF84f-UqHx2x2rBlt9ktt5L5nXK-1VwXS9bkUgZiVlRmRFTmPf6ArdUppygrU1eoiy_G0Q/s1600-h/007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NGgoRk0KHAFljMSrRWvWRcVWI4xqmg6CYhHFPzNtmOCwEiaJSehh6bBV7VxcBbGa6cPDEhF84f-UqHx2x2rBlt9ktt5L5nXK-1VwXS9bkUgZiVlRmRFTmPf6ArdUppygrU1eoiy_G0Q/s200/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525674036049298" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW_SEmm9AMjNb0SUdVaZ3Gl1l5qU7sc-BiH9H4GGlqLFV_Jpb2FZN58iF7lKOzyEkIdLPH5WF1bE5eB0MB2vuMaiDrC_-KS3lzJW0C_ecNEN5AxzaJdSKstimb2fuxfehDScsKI-QVZA/s1600-h/may+23+trip+4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW_SEmm9AMjNb0SUdVaZ3Gl1l5qU7sc-BiH9H4GGlqLFV_Jpb2FZN58iF7lKOzyEkIdLPH5WF1bE5eB0MB2vuMaiDrC_-KS3lzJW0C_ecNEN5AxzaJdSKstimb2fuxfehDScsKI-QVZA/s200/may+23+trip+4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525182505323410" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfDg_tKnX9Ba6oJ_RrGDxZIpwTgttNZUsrE42gntIhyLIs1EOKwI0UazIHGq5k6Vig_ZeMp6u4Zf9OrbvDK8ModEj9ddr1fSeRJQyyhURz3TtGANjnA6rS5WCEkVPjdZSRCY8UUFCgiI/s1600-h/008.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfDg_tKnX9Ba6oJ_RrGDxZIpwTgttNZUsrE42gntIhyLIs1EOKwI0UazIHGq5k6Vig_ZeMp6u4Zf9OrbvDK8ModEj9ddr1fSeRJQyyhURz3TtGANjnA6rS5WCEkVPjdZSRCY8UUFCgiI/s200/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525670102186018" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGglqDeDa1l6kh6f7t7uQt20dS2ptIvjeraOpvy3c6mT-ASEX8mgOxrO-GoEBaXFAwmcWN4RvtpcrcPYviWfCQPAcSh7joCT4xmIJuifhpAD6coeNlKGwcGX08kp4WtoyVp6XoBGUGm9M/s1600-h/009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGglqDeDa1l6kh6f7t7uQt20dS2ptIvjeraOpvy3c6mT-ASEX8mgOxrO-GoEBaXFAwmcWN4RvtpcrcPYviWfCQPAcSh7joCT4xmIJuifhpAD6coeNlKGwcGX08kp4WtoyVp6XoBGUGm9M/s200/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525203944127842" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcyaXlRpBkTg8e5ahFl5zrP7TY9jUwgwbkpQJJm7zytWCWWeHKPn-WNwQo3eLo6k4VceUpJ8b7uzqSu5_SW8Ahul5jXoUbaDUp4uhuxtdvuShp_lHcVE5KjZWTLr9BErERfFCh2DpRV8/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcyaXlRpBkTg8e5ahFl5zrP7TY9jUwgwbkpQJJm7zytWCWWeHKPn-WNwQo3eLo6k4VceUpJ8b7uzqSu5_SW8Ahul5jXoUbaDUp4uhuxtdvuShp_lHcVE5KjZWTLr9BErERfFCh2DpRV8/s200/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525197591000098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3y_5QdrDg-sDjeJgcBeNgYthog61SZ93N39pC1pzkYqPI6jdZyEcL4ld65G9SiSJTyL-oFhyv19OMn-3eGjMGJ963YfYQC-sDXkWfReRufdVjbQanrCHEVQ_u4CsfUAe-0OLT_64kZqw/s1600-h/011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3y_5QdrDg-sDjeJgcBeNgYthog61SZ93N39pC1pzkYqPI6jdZyEcL4ld65G9SiSJTyL-oFhyv19OMn-3eGjMGJ963YfYQC-sDXkWfReRufdVjbQanrCHEVQ_u4CsfUAe-0OLT_64kZqw/s200/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525191309787394" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFZGryrjWq31wJBp58aIu_3my5o4xUQaCPb5Q6uVmzpsMxDHw6GVrwaM9j81Be2E0V-G6t24A_mpN5yOgezR3hxrFqZoA0L4UQEAHtXgVpP6gyn-8m31b1yHFP2q5TYTSDLbuqsqt3kM/s1600-h/013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFZGryrjWq31wJBp58aIu_3my5o4xUQaCPb5Q6uVmzpsMxDHw6GVrwaM9j81Be2E0V-G6t24A_mpN5yOgezR3hxrFqZoA0L4UQEAHtXgVpP6gyn-8m31b1yHFP2q5TYTSDLbuqsqt3kM/s200/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340525184909346674" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXDnzUTi_X55qTA9NDnJOfdyogTl56VKbFWLuUGkWeYWbGIQKdUqf0d7lKgiFwAxQe4eFKjQC32eAW2hiP7tU8JeXPrmFj-yAyqaTX2S0aA3alDnf7-qt7Nhh8gbP0ncpO5s_AEcdPUI/s1600-h/017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXDnzUTi_X55qTA9NDnJOfdyogTl56VKbFWLuUGkWeYWbGIQKdUqf0d7lKgiFwAxQe4eFKjQC32eAW2hiP7tU8JeXPrmFj-yAyqaTX2S0aA3alDnf7-qt7Nhh8gbP0ncpO5s_AEcdPUI/s200/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340524438970232290" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI4KrvxKV-XSUaVnIXd_F3qitdnQQ7boicxv1GUMQ8YBmnKJaxYq2koKfyV6NANnbf_wkUaGX_LZRGBSm3_3NhY3X7X3cO7GTIN6TXRsED99jwo0HtL4jR6rKQN7yQdWcu8BIEdVNqW4/s1600-h/018.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVI4KrvxKV-XSUaVnIXd_F3qitdnQQ7boicxv1GUMQ8YBmnKJaxYq2koKfyV6NANnbf_wkUaGX_LZRGBSm3_3NhY3X7X3cO7GTIN6TXRsED99jwo0HtL4jR6rKQN7yQdWcu8BIEdVNqW4/s200/018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340524431226201730" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCFSBlX6PIHumayf8QI3GWAlaIlSHMl4fAu_ap6pu0Ejwf28mr43GZKgKpNUW6vnmJP8IVO4EK2BExIuulRhAQZtJPCxCSQC3w9dnEgweyXK1pyRaHV5mpvOGHsGjBPDGEiyUAGb0K5U/s1600-h/016.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCFSBlX6PIHumayf8QI3GWAlaIlSHMl4fAu_ap6pu0Ejwf28mr43GZKgKpNUW6vnmJP8IVO4EK2BExIuulRhAQZtJPCxCSQC3w9dnEgweyXK1pyRaHV5mpvOGHsGjBPDGEiyUAGb0K5U/s200/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340524441292655298" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X6tP_ANlXgZPMdwLXQEArq3z_fT1frdtBNy-dg-5U7aJJHqg9vxSCat-7ZZ8CxHUsknqeviZXIxLyuYTM5YH-mnQD3z3uOWccZ_eoweEF2csOYx6JKasMr1pAogGhL3OaVnGFHUxZyE/s1600-h/may+23+trip+3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8X6tP_ANlXgZPMdwLXQEArq3z_fT1frdtBNy-dg-5U7aJJHqg9vxSCat-7ZZ8CxHUsknqeviZXIxLyuYTM5YH-mnQD3z3uOWccZ_eoweEF2csOYx6JKasMr1pAogGhL3OaVnGFHUxZyE/s200/may+23+trip+3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340524446210238066" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EqaD9snwKFpA_7rlZgC-HxBgYzTS6GmFRNM0raIVaN1tZAYlfgexzW4TAXOkshfmnIvYWgyRN29Mf5n6WwktW_qviTkczr-rm-FakXJKE-htFapfxY5Hd97aApt8MZFPXVeToyG7ZMc/s1600-h/may+23+trip+1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EqaD9snwKFpA_7rlZgC-HxBgYzTS6GmFRNM0raIVaN1tZAYlfgexzW4TAXOkshfmnIvYWgyRN29Mf5n6WwktW_qviTkczr-rm-FakXJKE-htFapfxY5Hd97aApt8MZFPXVeToyG7ZMc/s200/may+23+trip+1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340524421679250562" border="0" /></a>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-87151650088238003492009-05-10T07:57:00.000-07:002009-05-10T09:18:38.424-07:00Nymphal Shucks part 4: the fly lineBuilding on what I've written before, it's time to address the fly line. Remember the bull whip and wet towel analogy? Ok then, let's look at a fly line.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MprmhH51F-I5zwWMn06S10YpS-owLo5Evvuh_J7bfL2c2G62uaUxU35UiRPUMTv5Q1oPsab1YThGBGjYVQHSd01WT5c2wZEOJNR_c_A1IiucsfGxf-VGFGaIgjGe6FYJPo5E8WW6PQE/s1600-h/taper_444SL_float.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 305px; height: 67px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MprmhH51F-I5zwWMn06S10YpS-owLo5Evvuh_J7bfL2c2G62uaUxU35UiRPUMTv5Q1oPsab1YThGBGjYVQHSd01WT5c2wZEOJNR_c_A1IiucsfGxf-VGFGaIgjGe6FYJPo5E8WW6PQE/s200/taper_444SL_float.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334211002129431170" border="0" /></a>Above is a picture of two types of fly line designs. The top one is a weight forward fly line. As you can see the fly line has an initial taper up to a thicker and heavier section. Then, it tapers down to a smaller, level section. All that weight concentrated in the forward section of the line tends to pull the rest of the line with it. Because of this, weight forward lines tend to be a little easier to cast, and are usually a good beginner line. They are also excellent for distance casting and when fighting wind.<br /><br />The bottom line is a double taper. Double taper lines are the same thickness throughout its length with tapers on either end. Although not as effective for distance casting as a weight forward, double taper lines tend to cast a little smoother and softer. This is good for delicate fly presentations when trying not to spook a fish. Because of the consistent thickness, they make good roll casting lines (we'll get into the different casts later). Since the average cast is typically no more than half the length of your fly line, the end of your line sees little use. Often, when the front and most used part of your fly line is getting old and cracked, the end is still like new. Since a double taper is the same on either end, a budget conscience angler can reverse a double taper line and get twice the life out of it.<br /><br />The leader is simply an extension of the fly line. Since the fly line is too thick and opaque to tie directly to your fly, you need a go-between. The leader is made out of clear monofilament line. Before you go grab your Berkley Trilene, there's a catch. The leader has to have the continuous taper just like the fly line for it to roll out smoothly and put the fly where you want it to go. Back in the day (and still today) fly fisherman would hand tie their own leaders. The process would entail tying varying thicknesses of monofilament together to create a thicker-to-thinner taper. There are still guys that do this, and it can be very cost effective. Also, tying your own leaders can result in some creative tapers designed to achieve specific casting results. This can give you an advantage depending on the fly and the conditions. the only drawbacks are they can be time consuming to tie, cost quite a bit more initially to get started, and in some cases the multitude of knots can cause trouble with your fly presentation.<br /><br />Thanking God for modern technology, I embrace the factory-made tapered leader. These can be had for very little money and are tapered without knots - kind of like little fly lines. these are a no-brainer for a beginner. They are sold in standard lengths of 7.5ft and 9 or 10ft - usually matched loosely to the length of your fly rod. The downside is that the taper is always the same. OK, I guess that's a downside...<br /><br />The end of the leader is called a tippet. No, I don't know why, maybe because it's the tip of the leader. The tippet is the section that is tied directly to the fly. It's ironic, but pound test is not really a consideration for determining the tippet size, but rather it's thickness. Looking back to how a fly line works and how the fly gets casted, you'll understand that the tippet needs to be the thinnest part. Tippets are measures with an odd, "X" system. As you go thinner, the "X" value goes up. So, a 4X tippet is thicker than a 5X or 6X, and so on. Aside from standard lengths, pre-tapered leaders are also designated by their ending tippet size. So for example, if I was shopping for a leader for my small stream rod, I would probably pick up a 7.5ft 5x leader. I will get into matching your tippet to your fly later on, as well as the knots used to tie all the parts together.<br /><br />Another note on the tippet is how long and when to tie on more. You see, as you tie on each new fly, you are using up more and more of that tippet section. Most tippet sections are around 18 to 24 inches. As you get down to 12-18 inches left of the tippet, it's time to tie on a little more. Fly fisherman will keep spools of tippet "material" handy to replace the constantly dwindling tippet section. Also, if I am going down to a much smaller fly than I had been fishing with then I might need to tie on a smaller diameter tippet section to suit the new fly. OK. I'm running the risk of getting too long winded, so, I'll cover more of this later on as well.<br /><br />finally let's end with the beginning. A fly line is only about 90ft long. that's not bad for panfish and stream trout, but in cases of bigger waters and larger fish you need more length. Attached between your fly reel and fly line is another type of line called the backing. The backing is usually a flexible, string-like cord that is relatively thin but strong. It has two advantages. First is the obvious - give you more line to work with if a steelhead takes off on a 100 yard run. Second is that it fills up the smaller core of the spool and gives a larger diameter base to wind your fly line on. Since fly lines are plastic, they do have a bit of coil memory when they've been spooled up for a while. Winding backing on a reel before the fly line helps to lessen that effect. 'Nuff said...<br /><br />So, there's the anatomy of a fly line and it's parts in as brief a description as I feel I can get away with. Next up, we'll talk about fly reels.<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-66620759904617466452009-05-08T02:30:00.000-07:002009-05-08T04:19:01.760-07:00Thursday Night Fishing Club: returning to the scene of the crime<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIL4vd_FOT65yvNF_U1TZbmVeLypty3T8oX6VxajBaDKGNrPpRaUDmnNBgd12p7beD53tkdNEobzqKIgixZqJ4szWXH9f_ZkZyAO-gdk_n5WDI5dzqyTnxZTfEEHGRy90aBkc_8lG_WXA/s1600-h/IMGP0002.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIL4vd_FOT65yvNF_U1TZbmVeLypty3T8oX6VxajBaDKGNrPpRaUDmnNBgd12p7beD53tkdNEobzqKIgixZqJ4szWXH9f_ZkZyAO-gdk_n5WDI5dzqyTnxZTfEEHGRy90aBkc_8lG_WXA/s200/IMGP0002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333406615966255922" border="0" /></a><br />So, Gaddabout and I got together last night for the reconvening of the Thursday Night Fishing Club. Our original plans were to take us to Nine Mile Creek to meet up with a few friends, but they bailed on us. We were also concerned that most of the streams would be high and muddy after the rains we had the previous night and morning. The only option for clear water? Butternut below the dam. You remember Butternut below the dam, don't you? Oh, about a month ago? Opening day? my rant about the wind?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKTzMWwPnMvhCtdctrYVYLB_b6M4pp1p1pgOG-xdZWZvwORAnDShw-QOxLqb5tqUBd0EeuMflLE3JMDlbM8HEKhTzJ0b5jskjex2PIR7QuEF2pS9E2Oum2Fjl7_7EuIZrbThkXlm8IUQ/s1600-h/IMGP0003.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKTzMWwPnMvhCtdctrYVYLB_b6M4pp1p1pgOG-xdZWZvwORAnDShw-QOxLqb5tqUBd0EeuMflLE3JMDlbM8HEKhTzJ0b5jskjex2PIR7QuEF2pS9E2Oum2Fjl7_7EuIZrbThkXlm8IUQ/s200/IMGP0003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404469392656418" border="0" /></a><br />Don't get me wrong, this little stretch of water is beautiful. Pleasant riffles and pockets and a couple of deep pools. It's even better when you don't have to share it with anyone. Last night was all of that. It was only Bob and I, 65 degree air temp and 59 degree water temp. The water was at mid level and clear down to 2 ft. There was a bunch of bugs coming off: Caddis in #16 tan/dun, #18 black, #18-20 Dun; Mayflies in hendrickson spinners #14, olives/blue dun #16, one March Brown #10; and various midges. The fish were rising ~ at times chasing cadd<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJXeswvT4KiiZyTcX3dgb5tu0e7plGKZSo0JyI-zFZtKxLrs8TyZamznAPgOw7s6UeRwVWwLqNlk5BbzZRabhb0JeHptEw8UBoNqJ37VYRlUS7FL1d9rD3ThztdZUQzzNOdH69KEIO2Y/s1600-h/IMGP0005.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJXeswvT4KiiZyTcX3dgb5tu0e7plGKZSo0JyI-zFZtKxLrs8TyZamznAPgOw7s6UeRwVWwLqNlk5BbzZRabhb0JeHptEw8UBoNqJ37VYRlUS7FL1d9rD3ThztdZUQzzNOdH69KEIO2Y/s200/IMGP0005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404474058199026" border="0" /></a>is out of the water and at times sipping mayflies and midges from the surface.<br /><br />It was funny how Bob and I were whining as we put on our gear. We were acknowledging that the fish gods weren't as kind to us these last few years as they've been in the older years. So, it came with great surprise that we did pretty well....or maybe the fish gods finally threw us a bone. Bob headed to the base of the dam, and I started quartering a black wooly bugger down through the riffles and pockets towards the "big pool". At the head of the big pool, I <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdu6zNXgNqXobssPlGlA-u5sS4uR3TQm-R6RPyNvC6pjmCBlKHW4DifZQzuIGmRozVuCqMUEgg-eg6hfDXovUCFg9QVPAZvqb4VEz1R7lRpnahhnEsZnC5mQ8sV10VZa1sL3zBK7EOwDQ/s1600-h/IMGP0007.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdu6zNXgNqXobssPlGlA-u5sS4uR3TQm-R6RPyNvC6pjmCBlKHW4DifZQzuIGmRozVuCqMUEgg-eg6hfDXovUCFg9QVPAZvqb4VEz1R7lRpnahhnEsZnC5mQ8sV10VZa1sL3zBK7EOwDQ/s200/IMGP0007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333406624540463442" border="0" /></a>got a hit on my 5th or 6th cast. He faught well, but not as hard as he probably should've since he was an 18 inch small mouth. Yup, I was incredibly surprised too. Nice fish. The evening glided on with me catching 2 browns on dry flies and Gaddabout landing 4 browns, 2 small mouth, and a rock bass.<br /><br />Phew. It's nice to get a fish in the net again. It's been a long winter. It was great to fish with Bob, head to a local joint afterward, catch up on the families, and build excitement <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDG3yAorSWaci7I0bKZVc7MUdLmq_qYlaMg-LXiLcLaXg2I_qMND8ItiN4qpHZhvqqsQue3tR1OtI0WU5poTr-iBU7mzPviwWicpkkHOnCNkPsnoWm3kZVEBDryl5u-ZCc-X8seH5MiU/s1600-h/IMGP0004.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDDG3yAorSWaci7I0bKZVc7MUdLmq_qYlaMg-LXiLcLaXg2I_qMND8ItiN4qpHZhvqqsQue3tR1OtI0WU5poTr-iBU7mzPviwWicpkkHOnCNkPsnoWm3kZVEBDryl5u-ZCc-X8seH5MiU/s200/IMGP0004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404488450378194" border="0" /></a>for the next trip. We both sighed at one point, taking in a good day of fishing and soaking up the relaxation around us. It's good to be alive, and even better when you can you can spend some time fishing.<br /><br />here's the link to the CNY Flyfisher report I posted: <a href="http://www.cnyflyfish.com/forum/itemView.php?msgID=695">http://www.cnyflyfish.com/forum/itemView.php?msgID=695</a><br /><br />Stay tuned - more fishing to come in the next few weeks. Hopefully my picture taking abilities will improve along the way....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jSePauCauPtrrnCzC-mEO6fTJHDYgBdlEUVn7GEH0gUcU_xsqo-fBfttMS9TZPHj5tj5iNpsQnCWIkAlo4fbls7gAJBZRI2gZj4FROGLVN8HjUuYiFsbQTOe_xnr1wDN1jf8VAoJqhg/s1600-h/IMGP0009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jSePauCauPtrrnCzC-mEO6fTJHDYgBdlEUVn7GEH0gUcU_xsqo-fBfttMS9TZPHj5tj5iNpsQnCWIkAlo4fbls7gAJBZRI2gZj4FROGLVN8HjUuYiFsbQTOe_xnr1wDN1jf8VAoJqhg/s200/IMGP0009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404907876662962" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qxW4uOhVu9DrQoS3TWbSmajME14wUS1lf7IZzQeTp-Vf1x42Wk0heRf12SWz-ha53rqhnOTjhX7sXeEW9jQwFemEM8ubDf3HVO5Y7K-nrhtI0skmlnXfIAdsq8LzaALRs2LukjPZ6PQ/s1600-h/IMGP0011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qxW4uOhVu9DrQoS3TWbSmajME14wUS1lf7IZzQeTp-Vf1x42Wk0heRf12SWz-ha53rqhnOTjhX7sXeEW9jQwFemEM8ubDf3HVO5Y7K-nrhtI0skmlnXfIAdsq8LzaALRs2LukjPZ6PQ/s200/IMGP0011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404912896374722" border="0" /></a><br />Muddler<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u4519qgCrHEhAEt0isL0OJwc6zrgotVhtduidTZv01aVC4gILaRE3AkD2imL-6cPbHzp_CkCRmBGoKSZkw5veEldGZvU3vn-Y7W-37lSwQGmZUciUiJzezgo7NnL7Ud_EWvdI7JkhnE/s1600-h/IMGP0013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4u4519qgCrHEhAEt0isL0OJwc6zrgotVhtduidTZv01aVC4gILaRE3AkD2imL-6cPbHzp_CkCRmBGoKSZkw5veEldGZvU3vn-Y7W-37lSwQGmZUciUiJzezgo7NnL7Ud_EWvdI7JkhnE/s200/IMGP0013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333404917435137954" border="0" /></a>Michael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-13040402566239833472009-05-06T19:11:00.000-07:002009-05-06T20:12:26.689-07:00Nymphal Shucks part 3: the fly RodOK. So, I will do my best to keep this as short and sweet as I can.<br /><br />Fly rods differ from spinning and casting rods in a number of ways. First off is length. Since managing your fly line is more involved than just making a cast with a weighted lure, fly rods tend to be quite a bit longer than spinning and casting rods. You will find fly rod lengths ranging from 4 1/2ft long to 14ft long, however most fly rods tend to be around 7 to 9ft. The shorter rods are best for small fish and narrow casting access like a small, tree covered creek. As you get up to larger waters, you tend to get into the mid sizes like 8 to 10ft. Then, say you get into a specialized casting style such as spey casting or pursue large saltwater prey your rod length can get up to 14ft.<br /><br />Second, the rod's action plays a part in how it casts. a slower action rod is a bit more flexable and allows for a smooth, forgiving cast that isn't as powerful but delivers the fly delicately and acts as a shock absorber to protect a fine tippet. You might like a faster action rod that is a bit stiffer and provides considerable more power to your cast when you're fighting wind or trying to make a long cast.<br /><br />Third, the weight designation applied to each rod is a way to help match a particular fly line weight to the rod. There is room to play in this designation - some guys like to overload the rod with a heavier fly line than what is recommended to get a desired casting feel, for example.<br /><br />To keep it simple, I'll give you a run down of my rod outfits - both current ones in service and my future rod building projects. I think my current and future rod outfits will give you a good concept of how the different variables are applied to chose the right rod for the water you fish. I fish in lakes for panfish, bass, northerns, and carp. I also fish small creeks to larger rivers for trout, and medium rivers for salmon and steelhead. So, here's what I got or plan to finish for my well rounded arsonel:<br /><ol><li>(current project) 6.5ft, 4 weight rod, medium action for very small creek trout fishing</li><li>(current project) 7.5ft 4 weight rod, medium action for small creek trout fishing</li><li>7.5ft 3 weight for creek trout fishing</li><li>7.5ft 5 weight for creek and small river trout fishing</li><li>(current project) 8.3ft 5 weight medium action for small river trout fishing<br /></li><li>9ft 5 weight medium action for small to medium river trout fishing</li><li>(future project) 9ft 6 weight fast action for medium to large rivers and windy conditions</li><li>9ft 7 weight medium action for stillwater and steelhead fishing</li><li>(future project) 9ft 8 weight fast action for windy days on stillwater, and some eventual saltwater fishing</li><li>11ft 6/7 weight short spey length for river steelhead</li><li>11ft 8 weight short spey length for river salmon</li></ol>As you can see, that list is a bit hypathetical, because three of them are in the process of being built, and two others are future projects I intend to build. The point is, you have to consider the fly you plan to cast, the amount of space you have to cast in, and the size of the fish you plan to catch. I could hook up on a feisty steelhead with a 4.5ft 3 weight, but the fish would probably distroy the rod outfit in your hands. that being said, I wouldn't be able to cast a weighted wooly bugger with a 2 weight rod. So, you will see as we continue how all the parts come together. In the next couple of posts I will be covering the fly reel and fly line, and the leader/line relationship.<br /><br />Now, just because I'm trying to keep these posts shorter than my usual to make them easier to read, doesn't mean I'm not open to questions. If you have questions, please feel free to post them in the comments. If I can't answer it well enough in the comments section, I will dedicate a post if needed to get the point across. For all I know, no one is reading or following this blog, so if you do have questions let me know so I can address them.<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-7594506917019456242009-04-14T12:36:00.000-07:002009-05-06T02:42:54.195-07:00Nymphal Shucks part 2: what's so special about fly fishing?What's so special about fly fishing, you ask? Well, technically nothing. It's just another fishing technique. Simply put it's a method of fishing designed to propel a lure that is so small and light that it can't propel itself. When spin fishing or casting, the lure or bait is weighted enough to pull the line off of the reel. In the case of a fishing fly, it's not heavy enough to do the same. Enter the fly line. BUT, I'm getting ahead of myself.<br /><br />So, you want to catch fish? Well, since they don't just jump into your creel spontaneously you have to figure out a way to lure them to you, right? I know you know where I'm going with this but I'm trying to put a simple spin on something that has often become too complicated. A fly, simply put, is just another lure. Now, I know my friend Gaddabout is getting all worked up over that statement but he knows it just as well as I ;). To lure a fish to your line you have to match your lure to the fish's food source. In the case of stream or river trout fishing, that is quite often a bug of some sort in it's various stage of development. A lure of such proportions is way to small to pull line off of your spinning reel, so you have to find a way to get it out to the fish. Also, sometimes that bug is floating on or near the surface of the water. Placing a weight on the line near the fly will naturally cause it to sink and won't look...natural. a couple of centuries ago, some genius came up with the idea of braiding some fishing lines together to create enough mass in the line itself to propel the fly out to the fish. And so, the fly line and fly fishing was born.<br /><br />The modern fly line is more than just thick plastic. It is heavy enough to cast, yet in many cases will float on the surface of the water easily. It's typically tapered in it's thickness to allow for a smooth blend of power and finesse that allows the fly to land on the water naturally. Without getting too technical and side tracked into all the variables, allow me to attempt to simplify the theory of fly casting. Have you ever cracked a whip? Or, maybe, snapped your buddy with a rolled up, wet towel after swimming at the beach? Did you notice that the whip or the towel rolled out in a really tight loop as you snapped them with your wrist? The reason why the whip or the towel acted that way is that they were tapered - thick to thin. As you cracked the whip, you were holding on to the thickest part and started it moving with a flick of your wrist. As this movement started, the thicker part transferred its power to the thinner part in a smooth chain reaction of sorts. Now, if you had a flat piece of rope instead of the tapered whip, the loop you made with the wrist action would have just lost its inertia before it got to it's end and died out. BUT, in the case of the whip or towel and due to their taper, thicker and heavier is always pushing the thinner and lighter. this causes the power to continue to the tip, and in the case of a whip or rolled towel causes the tip to snap. This is exactly the process that happens in fly casting. The fly line is tapered to the leader, which is also tapered down to the fly. When you cast the fly rod, this tapered design allows the fly line and leader to roll out smoothly in front of you, sending the fly in the direction you casted it.<br /><br />Now, I'm trying to keep my posts a little easier to get through, so I will stop here. Next, I'll get into the fly rod outfit and the line/leader/tippet relationship. Also, I'm on vacation for the next few weeks and have some fishing planned so stay tuned!! I hope to get down to the Catskills at least once in May. I also plan to fish locally both to some trout streams and on Oneida Lake with my wife. Bob and I have a trip to some new spots on Fish Creek in a few weeks. And, as soon as the water levels get a little friendlier, I NEED to get to The West Canada Creek. It's a disease, I know...<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4083390001069884462.post-1886820322723847592009-04-04T14:56:00.000-07:002009-04-04T15:39:41.510-07:00Nymphal Shucks: the beginner's corner introductionThe problem with a blog, or writing anything for that matter, is that it can be incredibly difficult to explain a visual and physical process. Nothing seems harder to explain that fly casting. It really is something you have to see and feel to understand. So, to get you off to a good start, I've got some references for you to check out:<br /><br />"Scientific Anglers Basic Fly Casting with Doug Swisher" <a href="http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20431-cat601973&id=0044057621889a&navCount=1&podId=0044057621889&parentId=cat601973&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=IK&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true">http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20431-cat601973&id=0044057621889a&navCount=1&podId=0044057621889&parentId=cat601973&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=IK&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true </a><br />Now, this video is a bit dated - it was what I used twenty years ago to learn how to fly cast. However, Swisher just seemed to make sense, and his video and exercises were incredibly effective.<br /><br />As for learning the basics, the book I learned from is no longer in print...and doesn't that make me feel old. Still, a good book is a great reference to have so I'll suggest one:<br /><br />"The Orvis Fly Fishing Guide by Tom Rosenbauer" <a href="http://www.orvis.com/store/productchoice.aspx?pf_id=65C0&dir_id=758&group_id=8791&cat_id=14974&subcat_id=14975">http://www.orvis.com/store/productchoice.aspx?pf_id=65C0&dir_id=758&group_id=8791&cat_id=14974&subcat_id=14975</a><br /><br />I've thumbed through it at the store and it looked great. Now, I do plan to cover a great deal of information in small bites here. We'll start with theory, and then on to the rod outfit, leaders and tippets, flies, fly boxes, tools and gadgets, waders and vests, and anything else I can think of. I will try to provide pictures and links to help illustrate, but if you have any questions you can email me directly and I'll try my best to explain any point in greater detail.<br /><br />So, that's where I'm going with this blog for now and I hope it helps all of you looking to start fly fishing or seek to improve your skills and knowledge base. More to come :)<br /><br />MuddlerMichael Marzullohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14290841687050535864noreply@blogger.com0