Many times my fly tying takes place after sundown. Times such as 9 PM, and 3 AM. I'll just sit down at the desk and let it happen. I have been doing this for most of my fly tying days. Why I do this I can't explain but one reason I can state is that there are no distractions. When a thought comes into my head I can bring it to life without any influences. I also like to have a little snack alongside me with a coffee or ginger ale. Wow ginger ale now there's a blog post, I love the stuff. I have been on a Chicharrones kick as of late. These salty and crispy snacks are a delight. Have you ever tried them?
I am not a master at fly tying and I will never be in the Fly Fishing Hall Of Fame. I will state that I love fly tying and that I am not afraid to try and tie any type of fly. One of my likes are the "Spey Flies"...these flies were originally tyed for Atlantic salmon over in England. They evolved and now are probably used more for steelhead then salmon. They are exquisite flies and so beautiful to look at. They also kick butt when called upon to perform.
Spey #1..tyed on a light salmon hook.
Spey #2...also tyed on a light salmon hook. This fly has been effective on trout.
This Spey fly is tied on a Sylvester Nemes hook. It also features a Jungle Cock eye.
Meatballs...everyone makes the best. I like them for lunch, with bread or just by themselves.
Alan,
ReplyDeleteGreat looking flies and the meatballs look divine.
Now I'm hungry!
JJ
Beaverdam
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Joe meatballs make the world a better place, comfort food supreme.
Great post Alan- Here in Mass we are fortunate to have land locked salmon and every autumn they make their way up the Still Water river to spawn. Over the years I have tied a large selection of salmon and spey flies and I really look forward to using them them each year at the peak of fall. Fighting an adult salmon into the net on a barb less fly is a real challenge. Last year I hooked and lost 2 fish and that was after having them "on" for quite a while. One on a #4 Royal Coachman Streamer and the other with a #6 Black Woolly Bugger. Of course part of the fun is that as I chase the big boys I catch juvenile salmon (par)and Brook Trout on all sorts of "giant" flies that I would never use in the spring and summer when I'm out targeting brookies on the same water. It's like their mocking me! In some cases the flies are almost as big as they are.
ReplyDeleteDean F
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Dean I se you know what a battle is, hooking a salmon is one thing bringing him to hand is another. I have had the pleasure of catching my share of landlocks on my trips to Maine over the years. I hooked one in the Rangeley river that took me into the backing in warp speed. I think he's still running with my fly. I also have had the pleasure of catching several Atlantic salmon broodstock fish here in CT. My quest now is to try and catch one of the few sea run Atlantic salmon that return to CT waters. Like you I enjoy tying the spey flies and keeping the hope alive.
Tying spey flies while eating meatballs and drinking ginger ale at 3am. Your secret is out!
ReplyDeletemike
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Hey buddy just the right amount of sauce on the fly makes all the difference.
I always know to eat before visiting your blog. The meatballs are a good example of why. Wait, let me stop slobbering. You know my one experience with Spey fishing. An adventure I'll NEVER forget. The flies are great though.
ReplyDeleteMark Kautz
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Mark some experiences never fade and that's how we learn I guess.
Slobber away friend.
Hi Alan
ReplyDeleteThose are some cracking looking flies you have tied there - you are way to modest about your skills at the vice!!!!!!
I ha to Google what Chicharrones are, crispy pig skin. We have similar on this side of the pond in the form of Pork Scratchings and Pork Crackling.I must admit, a packet of Scratchings is a real weakness of mine that I occasionally indulge in (ssshhh don't tell the missus) and who can decline a good sized Pork Loin Roast with loads of crispy Crackling? I can see why those Chicharrones are a current favourite. Regarding the meat balls, my missus and the youngest son hold the title of best meat ball makers in our household.
Just had my first trip of the 2021 Mayfly season on the little river Leven - 19 trout to 12" with around another 20 - 25 missed or released at distance! Can't wait for the next trip (and your next post too!).
Take care and stay safe
Alistair
Alistair
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Alistair those fried pork rinds are not the best things to put into our system, bur they sure taste good.
A very successful first trip. Those are numbers to be really excited about. You obviously selected the proper flies...
Hi Alan
DeleteThey may not be good for the body, but they certainly feel good for the soul!!!
I managed to call it with crippled emergers yesterday. The trout didn't want to work hard for their meals......
Take care and stay safe
Alistair
I have not been able to fish for over a year but those are great looking flies and you are right, we all think we make the best meatballs!
ReplyDeleteNJpatbee
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Pat nice to hear from you. I hope you will be able to overcome whatever has kept you from fishing.
And yes everyone's meatball has to be the tops.
Chicharrones... as someone else has posted we have pork scratchings, pub favourites which a re more crackly, with a hidden gooey centre if you are lucky. Ginger beer is for on the bank on a hot day, proper dark strong beer is for scratchings, mostly in the pub.
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