Central Alberta Fly Tying Club

Monday February 6th Phil Nash's Favourite Boatman/Backswimmers

2012-02-06T21:40:00.005-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Another record turnout of fly tyers came to learn about water boatman and backswimmer patterns that Phil Nash loves to fly fish. I wasn't sure if 35 fly tyers would fit in the library but we still had room for more. Phil taught us an original backswimmer pattern that Bruce Tilbrook originated to fool pot hole trout in Central Alberta. Bruce wanted to have his imitations have a yellow underbody. Phil also taught us a backswimmer pattern that was introduced by the late Reg Denny. Denny's Fly Shop was a very popular place to purchase fly tying materials in Edmonton for many years. Reg's backswimmer pattern was simple and you know it will catch lots of trout! Phil also taught us how to tie Les Robinson's original boatman pattern called the LR Boatman. Again another very effective boatman imitation. Thanks again Phil for presenting to our gang tonight.

Next week, Reid Stoyberg is our guest presenter. You will be very impressed with our youngest presenter. He is a passionate fly tyer.

A final reminder of the International Fly Fishing Film Festival that will occur this coming Sunday February 12th at Carnival Theatre at 3:30 pm. You can prebuy your tickets on line right here. It should be an excellent event.

Phil Nash

The Gang at play!

Bruce's Backswimmer

Hook: Mustad 3906 size 10-14

Thread: Tan 8/0

Body: yellow wool

Shellback: Turkey Quill

Legs: Turkey Quill

Reg's Backswimmer (Reg Denny originator)

Hook: Mustad 3906 sizes 10 to 16

Thread: Tan 8/0

Body: yellow dubbing and peacock herl

Shellback: Peacock herl

Legs: Peacock herl

LR Boatman (Les Robinson originator)

Hook: C49S sizes 10-14

Thread: 6/0 olive

Shellback: 3 mm sheet foam, tan

Air bubble: Glass bead, clear or pearlescent

Body: Diamond Dub, light olive

Legs: Sili Legs, brown or olive

Permanent marker is used for the red eyes and markings on the shellback

Jenning's Ultimate Boatman

(video from Sport Fishing on the Fly)

Les Kolibaba loves to add a single strand of pearl crystal flash to his boatman. Great idea Les!

Monday January 30th, 2012 An Evening with Evan Ritchie

2012-01-30T21:36:00.011-07:00

Evan Ritchie was our guest presenter tonight. Evan taught 22 fly tyers some variations on fly patterns that we all rely on. Have you ever watched a fly fisherman have an amazing day on the same water where your success rate was minimal? Evan's scud pattern came from modifications that he learned from a fellow fly fisherman at Summit Lake in British Columbia. Evan makes his own dubbing and adding some to the tried and true woolly bugger made a good pattern even better. Evan's backswimmer pattern evolved when he needed some backswimmers NOW! Again simplicity rules. Three great patterns that will get you into trout everywhere! Thanks for presenting tonight, Evan.

Bruce Tilbrook from our tying gang has published a book called Sausage Men. It has a fly fishing theme and it is available as an e-book. You can read 15% of the book on line for free. I think you will enjoy the anecdotes and real life experiences that Bruce writes about. Well done Bruce!

Many of you took in the Western Canadian Fly Fishing Exposition. I hope you enjoyed the displays, people and workshops. Our buddy Doug Pullen never misses workshops that are put on by the Steelhead Queen herself, April Volkey. We always tease Doug, but a picture speaks a thousand words.

Don't forget that International Fly Fishing Film Festival comes to Red Deer on Sunday February 12th at 3:30 pm at Carnival Theatre. You can buy your tickets right here.

Next week, Phil Nash is our guest instructor. See you then.

Evan Ritchie

Rick working on making his fly buggy with a velcro stick.

Doug Pullen and the Steelhead Queen, April Volkey. You won this round Doug!

Woolly Bugger

Hook: Mustad 9672 sizes 4 to 10

Tail: Black marabou and black crystal flash

Body: Black chenille and black sparkle dubbing combined with a dubbing loop

Hackle: Black

Backswimmer

Hook: dry fly 2 XL size 10 or 12

Underbody: brown foam

Body: Gold or silver tinsel

Shellback: Brown foam

Legs: Brown rubber leg material

Doug DeWitt uses this material for his backswimmer legs. It can be found in the bead department at Michaels.

Evan's Scud

Hook: C53S or TMC 200R size 14

Body: Olive rabbit or an alternate buggy material

Shellback: Clear plastic

Rib: Red wire or red sparkle thread

Monday January 23rd Loch Style Fly Fishing

2012-01-23T21:34:00.014-07:00

Bernie Peet was our guest presenter tonight and his theme was Loch Style Fly Fishing. Bernie peaked the curiosity of 32 fly tyers who came out to take in his presentation and learn to tie 3 Loch Style flies. Bernie is a particular fly tyer. He choose 3 flies that would be perfect to fish in tandem when fishing Loch Style.

Below you will see Bernie's notes which are quite detailed. Bernie takes lots of ribbing because of his English accent. We all even learned a new fishing word. Dibbling, yes dibbling your flies along or just below the surface is hanging your flies just before you pick them up and recast. Thanks Bernie for a very informative evening. You did a great job leading the group tonight. Our buddy, Phil Rowley, would have enjoyed your presentation.

Remember that the Canadian Fly Fishing Exposition is on this weekend at Spruce Meadows in Calgary. There are several excellent presenters.

...also the International Fly Fishing Film Festival is making a stop in Red Deer on Sunday February 12th at Carnival Theatre starting at 3:30 pm. There is a fabulous list of fly fishing films to take in. You can get your tickets on line.

Next week, Evan Ritchie is our guest presenter. I wonder what he has planned for us?

Bernie Peet

The Gang taking in Bernie's presentation.

Loch Style Fishing with Traditional Wet Flies

Loch style fishing is a technique used for many years in the British Isles which is now becoming more popular in other parts of the world. A loch style competition was held for the first time in BC in 2011 (see http://lochstyleflyfishing.com/ ) which also gives some good information on the method.) The key elements of loch style fishing are:

· Fishing in a boat using a drogue to slow down its speed, and casting with the wind. This is called a drift.

· Using a long (minimum 10ft, usually 11ft) mid-to-soft action rod (usually Wt 5) with a team of three wet flies.

· Making short casts with little false casting. Fish usually strike when the flies hit the water, when they are being retrieved or when the flies are ‘hung’ prior to re-casting. The ‘hang’ or ‘dibble’ (as I call it) is a very important part of the technique and many hits will come at this time.

The dibble is made more effective by using a well hackled fly on the top dropper which is often greased up to increase buoyancy. Skating this across the surface provokes a take on this fly or the next dropper down. Presentation is best when there is a wave or good ripple, which not only means the boat is covering more ground, but results in more movement of the flies.

By its nature, this method is only really effective when fish are in the top few feet of water, something which is less common here than in the UK. However, I have had some good success with loch style on Beaver Mines Lake in the Crowsnest area in September when the fish were very free rising. It is possible to fish with an intermediate or sinking line where the fish are further down in the water.

In comparison to fishing in a stationary or anchored boat, loch style fishing allows the fisherman to effectively cover a much greater area and number of trout within a similar time-frame. Fishing from a drifting boat provides the added advantage of a stealthy approach that significantly reduces the chance of spooking the trout as the fly is usually the first object they will see.

While the flies used traditionally have been wet flies, chironomids, nymphs and fry patterns may also be used. In addition, lures, boobies and other monstrosities are also seen as appropriate in some circles!

Some useful links:

http://lochstyleflyfishing.com/ (Canadian loch style fishing competition)

http://www.manictackleproject.com/flyfishingarticlelakefishinglochstyle/ (New Zealand)

http://americanangler.com/technique/loch-style (Article on the loch style technique)

Bernie's Loch Style fly box is ready to go!

A typical Lock Style fly rod.

Colton and Adam working on their flies.

Kate McLaren (top dropper fly)

Hook: Size 8 - 14 wet fly hook

Thread: Black 6/0

Tail: Golden pheasant topping

Body: Black seal’s fur or coarse synthetic dubbing

Rib: Oval gold tinsel (or silver)

Body Hackle: Black cock

Head Hackle: Brown or red-brown cock

Mallard and Claret (middle dropper or point fly)

Hook: Size 8 – 14 wet fly

Thread: Black 6/0

Tail: Golden Pheasant tippet feathers

Rib: Fine gold wire

Body: Dark claret seal’s fur or coarse synthetic dubbing

Wings: Bronze mallard

Hackle: Red game cock

Wingless Wickham’s variant (any position)

Hook: Size 8 – 10 wet fly

Thread: brown 6/0

Tail: 4-5 strands of pearl Lureflash or similar (flashabou)

Body: Mid-brown seal’s fur or coarse synthetic dubbing

Rib: Oval gold tinsel

Body Hackle: Red-brown cock

Head Hackle: Red-brown cock

Bernie's licence plate. Can you tell he is in the piggy business?

Monday January 16th Balanced Leeches and Chironomids

2012-01-16T22:08:00.013-07:00

Its fun to have so many take a turn leading the group at Fly Tying Mondays. Tonight Betty MacKenzie was our guest instructor. Betty taught the group four very effective patterns; two were balanced leeches and two were chironomids. It is very neat to see Betty create fly patterns, field test them and then tweeking them a bit more until she is satisfied its a great imitation that the trout will identify as a food source. All of Betty's patterns are well thought out because she knows they will catch fish. Her field tests with her husband Steve are always great adventures. Great job Betty!

Jerry McBride from the Inland Fly Fishers in Spokane was the originator of balanced flies. Jerry believed that many flies should be presented horizontally in the water column just like the naturals. He modified many nymphs and leech patterns to test his theory. Try taking basic flies like a bead head flashback and make the pattern sit in the water horizontally. All you need is a pin and a bead to make the modifications. This style of fly also makes an great jigging action in the water.

Bob Morenski is the originator of the Ice Minnow. Bob has spent many a foray on the lakes of the Parkland Region of Manitoba putting his patterns to the ultimate test. Bob has created many variations of the Ice Minnow. Try taking several of Bob's Ice Minnows and tie them "balanced."

Davie McPhail is an amazing fly tyer. He has posted many of his flies on You Tube. Take a look at his Holographic Grey Boy. The Grey Boy that Betty tied is a variation that Phil Rowley came up with. He simplified the original pattern by putting a hot orange collar on the fly.

When fishing a balanced fly or a chironomid, tie it on your line with a nonslip loop knot. Watch Brian Chan show you how to tie this knot on your line right here (from Sport Fishing on the Fly).

Next week Bernie Peet is our guest instructor and it is going to be a good one. Come and learn about Loch Style flies.

Betty MacKenzie

Success!

Black Chironomid

Hook: TMC 100 dry fly hook size 12

Thread: Black 6/0 or 8/0

Tail: 2 strands of pearl crystal flash

Body: Black tying thread

Rib: Silver tinsel

Gill: White polypropylene or antron

Thorax: Peacock herl

Shellback: White polypropylene or antron

Grey Boy (Phil Rowley modified)

Hook: Mustad C49S or TMC 2457 sized 10 to 14

Thread: Hot Orange or hot pink

Gill: White polypropylene or antron

Bead: Black size 1/8 or 7/32

Body: Black stretch floss or flashabou

Rib: White stretch floss

Colar: hot orange or pink thread

UV Light Grey Boy

Same as above with a single strand of UV Pearl Super Flash as a added rib.

Betty's Claret Balanced Leech

Hook: Mustad 32833BLN size 8 or 10 with a bead head and pin

Bead: Gold 5/32nd bead

Tail: Black marabou with a few strands of crystal flash

Body: Black and claret polar chenille wound together, tied off and trimmed

Ice Minnow (Bob Morenski originator)

Hook: Mustad 32833BLN size 8 or 10 with a bead head and pin

Bead: Gold 5/32nd bead

Tail: Black marabou with a few strands of crystal flash

Body: White crystal chenille

Back: Black crystal chenille

Rib: silver or red wire

Vampire Leech (Todd Oishi originator)

Jig Hooks

Monday January 9th Trout and Ultraviolet Vision

2012-01-09T21:36:00.008-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Rick Miyauchi did a presentation tonight on UV light and how to incorporate it in your tying patterns to trigger trout to take a fly. Rick emphasized simplicity in constructing his flies although he was using the key ingredients to get a trout to take the fly. A very well thought out presentation Rick! The 25 fly tyers came away with three great patterns! Time to add UV flashabou into some of my patterns.

UV Flashabou does come in a variety of colors.

Next week, Betty MacKenzie is our guest presenter. Betty has requested that you have the following items on hand:

pliers with wire cutters to cut the pins

lead if they want to weight the fly

a short length of light test fishing line to balance the hook

hot orange or hot pink tying thread

Rick Miyauchi

Some of the gang at their vices tying tonight's patterns.

Evan leading our newer fly tyers in a lesson!

Bloodworm

Hook: nymph hook 2 or 3 XL (Mustad 9671 or 9672) sizes 14 to 8

Thread: Red 3/0

Body: Red 3/0 thread

Shellback: UV purple flashabou

Rib: Red 3/0 thread twisted in a rope

Hot Spot Chironomid

Hook: Mustad C49S sizes 8 to 16

Body: black 8/0 thread (color to suit)

Hot Spot: UV Light flashabou

Thorax: Black Thread

Breathers: White midge gill

Caddis Emerger

Hook: Mustad 3906 or C49S sizes 10 to 16

Thread: 6/0 color to suit

Trailing Shuck: antron or z-lon (amber or color to suit)

Body: Mirage opal flashabou

Wing: Deer hair

Rib: thread

January 7th, 2012 Phil Rowley Workshop: Fun with Foam

2012-01-07T18:32:00.018-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Today, the Central Alberta Fly Tyers set a new record. Thirty two fly tyers spent the day with Phil Rowley learning the intricacies of tying foam flies. We are very lucky that Phil has made himself available to our club over the past 5 years. Phil is the one of best fly tying instructors because of his clear and concise directions. Phil makes the day long seminar fun, educational and we all become better fly tyers each time he visits us. Thanks again, Phil. Another fabulous day!

A special thanks to Dr. Bill Young for lending a hand today as well. Much appreciated Bill!

Yes, we do have our regular Monday fly tying session on January 9th. Rick Miyauchi is our guest instructor. See you then!

Phil Rowley

Why Use Foam?

—Readily available

—Easy to use

—Can be trimmed to a variety of shapes and sizes

—Ability to color using permanent markers

—Provides both form and function

—Buoyant

—Perfect material in today’s hackle challenged world

—Works for both surface and sub-surface patterns

We learned all about the different types of foam that can be used in fly tying.

Including:

—Ethafoam-Packaging material

—Evazote-Sheet Foam

—Poly Urethane-UV Sensitive

—Vinyl Foam-Reacts to Solvents

—Poly Ethylene Foam

We learned all about different adhesives:

Not all adhesives stick to foam-i.e. Epoxy Subs, Knot Sense

Fabric adhesives

Aqua Seal

Soft Tex

Soft Body

Super 77

Flexament or C-Flex

The foam cutters that we used today came from a company called River Road Creations Cutters. You can order the cutters on line.

The gang at work!

Preparing the foam.

Furry Foam Skwala

Hook: Mustad R74-9672 #8-#10

Thread: 6/0 Olive

Body: 2mm Sheet Foam, Olive and Furry Foam, Olive, Laminated Together

Wing: Deer Body Hair

Legs: Round Rubber Legs Barred, Olive

Winged Boobie

Hook: Mustad R-50-94840

Thread: 6/0 Color to Match

Tail: Marabou

Body: Crystal Chenille

Wing (Optional): Holographic SuperFlash or Flashabou

Eyes: Booby Eye Body Foam, Medium, White or Black

Sugar Cube

Hook: Mustad R50-94840 #12-#16

Thread: 6/0 Colour to match body

Trailing Shuck: White Packing Foam or Sheet Foam

Rib: Pearlescent Crystal Flash

Body: Stillwater Solutions Soft Blend Dubbing Maroon, Olive, Dark Summer Duck

Thorax: Stillwater Solutions Soft Blend Dubbing- Maroon, Olive, Dark Summer Duck

Suspender: White Packing Foam or Sheet Bubble

Foam Beetle

Hook: Mustad R50-94840 #10-#16

Thread: 6/0 Black

Shellback: Booby Body Foam, Black

Indicator: 2mm Sheet Foam, Orange

Body: Dubbing or Peacock Herl

Legs: Barred Round Rubber Legs, Small

Simplified Ultimate Boatman

Hook: Mustad S82-3906 #12

Thread: 6/0 Olive

Underbody: Stillwater Solutions Soft Blend

Dubbing, Dark Olive Green

Body: 5/8ths Foam Body Slim, White or Tan

Legs: SuperStretch Floss or Stillwater Solutions Midge Stretch Floss, Olive

Club Sandwich

Hook: Mustad S-80-3906 #4-#10

Thread: 6/0 White or Tan

Body: 2mm Sheet Foam, Tan, Brown and Orange glued together and trimmed to shape

Legs: Round Rubber Hackle, Knotted

Indicator: 2mm Sheet Foam, Hot Orange

Floating Minnow

Hook: Mustad R74-9672 #6-#12

Thread: 6/0 White

Tail: Stillwater Solutions Grizzly Marabou, Olive or Brown

Underbody: 2mm Sheet Foam, White

Body: SuperWeave Mylar, Medium

Extended Body Dun

Hook: Mustad C49S #6-#10

Thread: 6/0 Color to Compliment Body

Tail: Pheasant Tail Fibres

Body: 2 mm Sheet Foam, Color to Match Naturals

Wingcase: 2mm Sheet Foam, Color to Match Naturals

Thorax: Diamond Dubbing, Color to Match Naturals

Wings: Poly, Elk or Deer Hair

King's Foam Dragon

Hook: Mustad C49S #8-#10

Thread: 6/0, Black or Olive

Body: Foam Body, Plump or Slim, Covered with Dubbing

Legs: Stillwater Solutions Grizzly Marabou, Round Rubber Hackle Barred

Thorax: Dubbing

Wingcase: Thin Skin, Mottled Oak, Two Sections

Eyes: 1/8” Wide Strip of 2MM Black Sheet Foam

Information about the Fly Tying Workshop with Phil Rowley

2011-12-20T10:10:00.002-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Here is some valuable information about the fly tying workshop with Phil Rowley that starts at 9 am on January 7th at Mattie McCullough School. The school is located on Lawford Avenue. Travel east on 32nd Street until you get to the very end of the street (its almost 6 km from Highway 2). You will pass Hunting Hills High School as you travel east on 32nd Street. There is a traffic light right at the far east end of 32nd Street. When you get the end of 32nd Street, turn right and the school is immediately on your right. Use the front door!

The coffee will be on from 8:30 am. Come early and visit!

We will order pizza. If you prefer to bring your own lunch, feel free to do so! We will have coffee, water and juice at the workshop.

The workshop will continue until 4 ish!

If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me!

Bob

...here is a note from Phil

I have all of the materials and Patsy and I just have to sort them into the various sample packs for everyone. I will put 30 together per fly pattern.

In addition to their tying vise and basic tools, bobbin, scissors etc. the students will need to ensure they have a few things on hand specific to this class.

· Fine sewing needle
· Exacto Knife or small utility knife for cutting foam
· Gel Control Superglue from Loctite, it can’t be the runny stuff we use for chironomids. It needs to be viscous so it doesn’t flow.
· White, Olive, Black, Hot Orange and Brown 6/0 tying thread. Try to avoid 8/0 as it isn’t the best choice for foam.

December 19th, 2011 Cool Caddis Patterns

2011-12-19T21:17:00.010-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Larry Prowse was our guest tyer tonight. Larry taught 32 students 4 cool caddis patterns. Three of the fly patterns were introduced for fishing on Montana rivers and spring creeks. None of the patterns use hackle which allows the patterns to ride right in the surface water. All of these patterns are quite straight forward. The use of antron and z-lon makes tying these patterns quite quick to construct. You can tie these patterns in a variety of sizes and colors. In Central Alberta, be sure to have olive and tan bodies on your caddis patterns. All 4 patterns will be effective on our rivers in Alberta. This was Larry's first time in front of the camera and he handled it like a seasoned pro! Well done Larry, great instruction tonight.

The Phil Rowley Workshop on January 7th is now FULL. The theme is "FUN with Foam."

Have a Merry Christmas everybody !

Larry Prowse

The library was full of fly tyers tonight.

LITTLE bro was showing BIG bro how to tie flies.

Iris Caddis

Hook:TMC 100 sizes 14 to 18

Thread: 8/0 color to match

Shuck: crinkled z-lon gold or amber/color to match

Body: Hares mask or antron -keep it shaggy and rough

Wing: White z-lon

Head: Hares mask or antron

Improved X-Caddis

Hook: TMC 100 sizes 12 to 20

Thread: 8/0 color to match

Shuck: crinkled z-lon gold or amber/color to match

Rib: pearl UV light crystal flash

Body: Hares mask or antron -keep it shaggy and rough

Underwing: White Z-Lon

Wing: Carabou hair or deer hair

Head: same as body material

Crystal Serendipity

Hook: TMC 2487 sizes 14 to 18

Thread: 8/0 Tan

Body: 2 to 4 strands of pearl crystal flash

Rib: small gold wire

Wing: Deer hair

Balloon Caddis

Hook: standard dry fly hook sizes 12 to 18

Thread: 8/0 color to match

Abdomen: antron/rabbit mix or natural hares ear

Thorax: Same as abdomen

Wing: Deer hair

Head: foam- you can use a variety of colors

Monday December 12th, 2011 Tying Large and Small

2011-12-12T21:18:00.005-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Les Kolibaba was our guest tyer tonight. We split into two tying groups. Evan Ritchie did a lesson on basic skills for the gang who needed a lesson/refresher to help their tying. While that was going on, Les taught the rest of the gang three cool patterns. We started off small, really small; tying a trico spinner. We tied our trico spinner quite large although we should all be prepared to tie them size 20 and even smaller. That means Bernie is going to need three pairs of glasses on his nose. We then tied a very cool salmon fly that closely resembled a Gartside Leech. Finally the group tied a Marabou Jig. Les did a great job teaching us these neat patterns. Thanks again Les.

We have 3 spots left for the Phil Rowley "Fun with Foam" workshop that will occur on January 7th.

Next week, Larry Prowse is our guest tyer. Our theme is caddis patterns. See you then!

Les Kolibaba

Doug is evaluating Bernie's progress. His body fur collar looks good, right Doug?

Betty and Phil comparing their streamers.

Taking care of the basics.

Trico Spinner

Hook: standard dry fly hook sizes 16 to 24

Tail: 2 microfibetts

Body: thread-black or brown 8/0

Wing: white polypropylene

Shellback: craft foam/ethafoam

Popsicle Salmon Fly

Hook: salmon hook size 2

Tag: silver mylar

collar 1: body fur

Body: marabou (3 plums)

black/red crystal flash

Collar 2: cross cut rabbit fur

Marabou Jig

Hook: Small jig hook

Tail: Black and red crystal flash

Body: Two marabou feathers

Monday December 5th, 2011 Two Essential British Columbia Lake Flies

2011-12-05T21:23:00.005-07:00

Hi Everybody!

It was a full house again tonight to take in Dr. Bill Young's fly tying session. Bill taught the group "Two Essential B.C. Lake Flies". I had to smile when Bill taught us how to tie a Tom Thumb. It was the first fly I ever tied and I was ALL THUMBS. Bill reminded us that A.K. Best always believed that you have to tie 20 to 30 flies of a select pattern before you get good at it. Getting the perfect sense of quantity of materials and proportion can be challenging. Bill's Green and Gold Fly is definitely going to be a welcome addition to my fly box. The Green and Gold could represent a damsel nymph. Thanks for sharing these two fly patterns with us, Bill!

The Phil Rowley Workshop on January 7th is almost full. Contact Bob if you want to take in the workshop.

Next week, Les Kolibaba is our guest tyer. See you then!

Dr. Bill Young leading the group.

The gang concentrating on their patterns.

Tom Thumb

Hook: TMC 100 sizes 8 to 16

Tail: Deer hair (try coastal deer hair)

Shellback and Wing: Deer hair

Green and Gold

Hook: Mustad 9672 size 8

Bead: green glass

Tail: fluffy part of a green dyed rump feather (not shown in the above picture)

Rib: Medium gold tinsel

Body: Olive antron (also try seal or mohair)

Collar: Olived dyed rump feather with a single strand of peacock herl

Monday November 28, 2011 P-Quads

2011-11-28T16:25:00.008-07:00

Hi Everybody!

What an amazing turnout for the kick-off of another fly tying season. Twenty-nine keen fly tyers came out tonight to learn how to tie Mark Olinger's P-Quad Series. Welcome to the new fly tyers who came out today. We hope you will enjoy the learning and fellowship within the group.

A special thanks to the Central Alberta Chapter of Trout Unlimited for purchasing a camera and projector for the Central Alberta Fly Tyers to use during their Monday night sessions.

There have been a number of different P-Quad variations from both Mark and others depending on what they want the fly to imitate in the water. The original P-Quad included: pheasant, peacock herl, pintail (well barred teal) and partridge; hence the name " P-Quad." Many of the variations maintain the pintail wing and partridge collar. Below are 5 variations including the original. These flies represent damsel nymphs to forage fish depending on how you dress the fly.

Remember to let Bob (just e-mail me) know if you want to take the all day fly tying workshop put on by Phil Rowley on January 7th. The theme is fun with foam. A very appropriate theme considering the cost of hackle these days. For those of you who recall John Howard from Howard's Hackle visiting one of our tying session, he reminded us that hackle will be very hard to come by. The fashion industry is paying big bucks for saddle hackle. John right now is practically sold out!

Next week, Dr. Bill Young will be our guest tyer. I wonder what Bill has up his sleeve. Last year we tied mice and a Pike Popper we named All Sorts (after the licorice of course).

Below, you will see the patterns we tied tonight. See you next week.

Original P-Quad

Mustad 3609B hook sizes 8 to 12 (2xl nymph hook)

Thread: olive or red (6/0)

Weight: .020 lead free wire

Tail: 6-8 pheasant fibers

Rib: gold/copper wire (medium or small)

Body: 3 to 5 strands of peacock herl

Wing: Teal flank well barred

Hackle: Partridge neck feather

Crystal P-Quad

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 8 to 12 (2xl nymph hook)

Thread: Olive 6/0

Weight: .020 lead free wire

Tail: one strand of olive crystal flash doubled over and olive marabou

Rib: medium copper wire

Body: medium olive crystal dubbing

Wing: Rolled teal flank with good barring

Hackle: Partridge neck feather

Psychedelic P-Quad

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 8 to 12 (2xl nymph hook)

Thread: Flame orange 6/0

Weight: .020 lead free wire

Tail: one strand of olive crystal flash doubled over and olive marabou

Rib: medium copper wire

Body: medium brown crystal dubbing

Wing: Rolled teal flank with good barring

Hackle: Partridge neck feather

Neon P-Quad

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 8 to 12 (2xl nymph hook)

Thread: Fire orange 6/0

Weight: .020 lead free wire

Tail: hot orange marabou or burnt orange marabou

Rib: medium copper wire

Body: Flat orange diamond braid

Wing: Rolled teal flank with good barring

Hackle: Partridge neck feather

Squirrel P-Quad

…Mark Olinger originator

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 8 to 12 (2xl nymph hook)

Thread: Tan 6/0

Weight: .020 lead free wire

Tail: 6 to 8 strands of pheasant

Rib: medium copper wire

Body: Gray squirrel

Wing: Rolled teal flank with good barring

Hackle: Partridge neck feather

Central Alberta Fly Tyers Slide Show 2011

2011-11-03T08:12:00.002-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Many individuals from our fly tying club submitted pictures from their fishing season. I have put them into a slide show. Grab a coffee and take a look right here:

Central Alberta Fly Tyers 2011 slide show

Bob

The Upcoming 2011-2012 Fly Tying Season

2011-10-20T10:05:00.006-06:00

Hi Everybody!
The fly fishing season is winding down and its time to get the Central Alberta Fly Tying Club organized for another year.
The plan is to get rolling on Monday November 28th at 7 pm. We will be again back to West Park Middle School (right across from Red Deer College) in the library!
The plan is to have tying sessions every Monday until the end of March with an added all day fly tying session on Saturday January 7th with Phil Rowley. At this momemt, the Theme is FUN with Foam. With the cost of hackle and its poor availability, its time we examined alternative ways to tie flies that work.

To get the ball rolling, we need to get members of our club to led a session or two. There is an incredible amount of knowledge withing the club that over the years we have shared with our gang at the vice on Monday nights. We want to encourage newcomers to join us as well.

We will also have a new camera and projector that the Central Alberta Chapter of Trout Unlimited is going to purchase that will add a great deal to our Monday evenings.
Please contact me by e-mail if you are willing to run a fly tying session on Monday nights. We usually share two or three patterns. All your expenses will be covered. That includes materials like hooks, dubbing, feathers, etc.
Finally, if you have have some pictures you would like to share with the group, please e-mail them to me. I am doing a slide show for the first session that will include images from our club trip to Manitoba and pictures from our cutthroat trips this year as well a a trip to chase coho on the west coast.

Pass the word. We're gearing up for another educational year of fly tying.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Bob

Fly Fishing for Salmon on Vancouver Island

2011-09-16T11:51:00.004-06:00

Roy's Dad stalking a salmon!

Roy and I headed over to Vancouver island to chase coho salmon during the first week in September. It was a memorable trip that included perfect weather, fabulous camping and fly fishing for not only coho, but springs, jack springs, pinks and dolly varden. Roy and I are do it yourself types so we coordinated with his dad and a few of his Vancouver Island buddies. We flew over to Comox and by supper time, we had camp set up north of Campbell River. I was worried that there would be lots of fly fishers. That was not the case although one day the river we fished, the river got busy and so we moved out to fish in the estuary of the river. The pink salmon were still heading up river in good numbers so we did fly fish for these hard fighting salmon! Every afternoon we fished in the estuary for coho! Coho are hard fighters that will take a rather small fly considering their size. Almost all of the coho that we caught, were sight fished. These fish will rip off 100 yards of line in a blink of an eye. They leap out of the water many times when hooked up.

A typical day had everything to do with what the tides were doing. At day break were fished in the river where we encountered pinks, springs and coho. By late morning, we headed back to camp for a late brunch, fly tying and a break. The afternoon fishing started as the tide was ebbing. The aggressive feeding coho would come into the estuary to feed and they would leave as the tide came down.

The evening camp fire had lots of fun stories and laughs. The only part we did not like was how fast the week flew by.

Coho

Roy and his Dad.

Roy with a 9 pound coho that gave Roy's arms a real workout!

A nice coho caught in the estuary.

Another great scrap with a coho.

This coho had me in my backing at least 6 different times before bring it to hand.

This spring salmon was a real surprise. I could see this monster and was surprised to get a hook up and actually land it!

2011 Fish Stocking Report

2011-06-27T22:26:00.001-06:00

Hi Everybody!

If you are interested in what waters have been stocked this year, take a look right here:

2011 Fish Stocking Report

Bob

Larry and Ken's Pictures from Fly Fishing in Manitoba

2011-06-27T07:04:00.002-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Here is a selection of pictures from Larry and Ken Prowse from our club trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba. Thanks for submitting the pictures fellas.

Larry with two big rainbows.

Fabulous rainbow Larry!

Now that is a beauty of a tiger trout Ken!

A colorful tiger trout that Ken caught.

Betty and Steve's Pictures from Manitoba

2011-06-19T11:46:00.002-06:00

A Tokaryk Lake brown trout!

A big rainbow from Pybus Lake for Steve.

Betty will be telling others about this gigantic rainbow for a long time.

Some nice tiger trout!

Love the shadow of the net on this tiger trout!

Back to the Parkland Region of Manitoba: Trip Report

2011-06-19T08:57:00.023-06:00

The Gang

Phil tagged this beauty with a balanced ice minnow.

The photo below is Ken and Larry at Tokaryk Lake.

Larry is tangling with a big rainbow.

Hi Everybody!

Karen and I just got back from another Parkland Region of Manitoba fly fishing adventure hosted by Phil Rowley along with Karen and I . Our annual club trip was a BIG success. The weather was amazing. Karen and I stayed for another week to help Phil Rowley with another club called the Inland Fly Fishers from Spokane. They experienced challenging weather to say the least. We even had a funnel cloud bear down on us at Twin Lakes although it never did touch down. Each year, we try to add new seminars and techniques to try. I know that several of you tried nymph fishing with a long leader and no indicator. I saw many fantastic fish caught including a rainbow of a life time that Betty caught. Way to go Betty. The Vampire Leech did it again. I wonder why Betty and Karen catch the monsters? It is neat to see.

Vampire Leech

I enjoy the camradrie within our group. The preparation for the trip is well worth it. Please send me a few of your favorite pictures so I can add them. Phil will send everybody a disk with with pictures and all the seminar notes.

Morris and Chris (from Medicine Hat) headed over to Twin Lakes to chase tiger trout. They had a long day and got about a dozen tigers to hand. Way to go guys.

We already have our dates for next year and we will get the details out right away for those of you who are interested. Please send Karen, Phil or I any feedback. We always want to improve the quality of the trip.

Arrow Lake Lodge

Rick with a beauty of a rainbow.

Larry McAllister with a colorful rainbow.

Doug spending the evening at Patterson Lake. Doug tagged 6 rainbows.

Betty heading out at Patterson Lake.

Betty caught this rainbow that weighed over 10 pounds with a Vampire Leech. What a fantastic moment Betty. Betty's smile says it all.

...luckily Phil was there to capture this moment on his camera.

Casting seminar at Arrow Lake.

Nice brown trout Bernie!

Doug cooking breakfast sausage at the lodge.

Larry caught many trophy sized rainbows. Here is one from Pybus Lake.

Rick's new fly fishing technique. Of course shortly after taking this image, Rick's line tightened up with a big rainbow.

Morris and Phil working a mid lake hump in the evening.

Doug caught this brown trout in Tokaryk Lake near a beaver house. Neat colors on this brown Doug!

Bernie in the kitchen.

Making lunch at the lodge.

Bob caught this hen along a weed line.

Karen waited almost 2 hours along a weed line. Several browns were cruising and caught. This one was a beauty.

Two Bruins fans. It was tough for us non Bruin fans.

Rick tying at the lodge. His small bait fish balanced leech was a winner. Great pattern Rick.

Steve with a nice Patterson rainbow.

A funnel cloud at Twin Lake. It did not touch down thankfully.

Ron Manz Passes Away

2011-05-27T20:08:00.003-06:00

Ron Manz, from Rocky Mountain House has passed away from cancer. Ron ran a guiding service called Before the Hatch Anglers. He was a very well known guide in the Central Alberta area. Our condolences to his family. You can read more about Ron in an article from the Mountaineer newspaper. Ron was a passionate fly fisher!

Bob

2011-05-14T14:56:00.001-06:00

The Red Deer River Annual Clean Up is June 5th.

Come and help make the Red Deer River valley shine.

Lahontan Cutthroat Trout

2011-05-02T12:51:00.007-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Karen and I just got back from a neat trip to fish for Lahontan Cutthroat Trout. I thought I would post some pictures of these BIG cutthroat. Lots of the fishing was sight fishing. That was a real blast. Take a look. These were easily the biggest cutthroat we have ever caught. The colors of these trout was amazing.

Sight Fishing Presentation with Dave and Amelia Jensen

2011-04-04T21:12:00.004-06:00

Hi Everybody!

It was a full house at the West Park Middle School library to take in Dave and Amelia's presentation on Sight Fishing. Dave and Amelia have gathered some amazing video from their travels through Western Canada, the USA and New Zealand. The idea of spending the day sight fishing for trout may have never occurred to many of us. Dave and Amelia have become masters of this type of fly fishing. Dave showed us several important things to think about when sight fishing. Dave's video did a great job of illustrating his points. Learning about where trout are likely to be found, how to approach and set up, how to present a fly, patience (this is a hard one for me), taking advantage of the lateral line sensitivity of a trout and the importance of an accurate cast were all part of the presentation. Tonight's presentation was a great way to start the 2011 fishing season. Thanks for coming, Dave. I know that one hour of video probably took 25 hours to prepare.

If you are looking for updates on what is going on with hatches and water conditions; head over to Dave's blog.

Well, another fly tying season for the Central Alberta Fly Tyers is complete. Again the presenters deserve a great deal of thanks:

Dr. Bill Young

Evan Ritchie

Doug Pullen

Phil Rowley

Bob Vanderwater

Rick Miyauchi

Betty MacKenzie

Tim Maley

Phil Nash

Bernie Peet

The strength of the Central Alberta Fly Tyers is the willingness of members to share their expertise in a friendly way to all fly tyers. We learn so much from each other. If you have any questions about fishing local lakes and waters, do ask some of the gang. I hope to see you out on the water.

Do check back to our web site from time to time for updates on what is going on out on the water. We have an exciting trip to Manitoba set up for 12 members of our club. Phil Rowley is very excited about joining us.

Remember that the Central Alberta Chapter of Trout Unlimited's Dinner/Auction is Thursday May 12 at the Black Knight Inn. Please buy a ticket or two and take in a great evening with the proceeds going to projects here in Central Alberta that will enhance our trout waters. You can e-mail Karen or Bob (karen.bob@shaw.ca) for tickets.

Bob

Snazzy Stimulators Monday March 21, 2011

2011-03-21T21:43:00.007-06:00

It's hard to believe it's Spring here in Red Deer. Another snow squall invaded Red Deer but nevertheless 21 fly tyers came out to take in Bob's presentation on stimulators. This was a follow up session from two weeks ago when we tied stonefly nymphs. Tonight we tied several variations of Randall Kauffman's famous pattern. Tying stimulators teaches you so much technique in fly tying including sizing hackle, dubbing a body, tying in deer hair tails and wings and getting a good sense of proportion.

Stimulator fly patterns can be used for stoneflies in Alberta. In a few short weeks the skwalas will be hatching in southern Alberta and a dark green stimulator in size 10 can be a real asset. Later in May skwalas can be found hatching on the Red Deer River. As the season progresses, the golden stones start hatching on many Eastern Slopes Rivers. The cutthroat love to rise to a well presented stimulator dressed as a golden stone.

We have one final session on April the 4th when Dave and Amelia Jensen will be doing a special presentation on sight fishing. This presentation will include some amazing video that you will certainly enjoy. The presentation may inspire you to try sight fishing on our local rivers. There will be a $5 admission charge.

We will also have a draw for 4 tickets to the Central Alberta Trout Unlimited Dinner/Auction on May 12th. I do hope that you will consider supporting this event by buying a ticket. Its a great evening and there is lots of opportunity to bid on some real cool fly fishing gear, art, tools, etc. The best part is supporting the sport that we all love so much.

Bob at the Vice

Stimulator

Hook: TMC 200R sizes 6 to 14

Tail: Elk hair or deer hair

Rib: 3/0 yellow thread (or fine copper wire)

Body: Orange antron or ice dub

Hackle: Brown for the body

Wing: Elk or deer hair

Head: yellow antron/ice dub

Hackle for the thorax: grizzly hackle

Rubber Legged Stimulator

Hook: TMC 200R sizes 6 to 14

Tail: Elk hair or deer hair

Rib: 3/0 yellow thread (or fine copper wire)

Body: Golden stone antron or ice dub

Hackle: Brown for the body

Wing: Elk or deer hair with an orange polypropelyn underbody or synthetic

Head: yellow/orange antron or ice dub

Hackle for the thorax: grizzly hackle

Legs: Rubber

Skwala Stimulator

Hook: size 10 or 12 TMC 200R

Tail: Elk hair or deer hair

Rib: 3/0 yellow thread (or fine copper wire)

Body: peacock herl or peacock ice dub

Hackle: Brown for the body

Wing: Elk or deer hair

Head: dark green antron/ice dub/peacock herl

Hackle for the thorax: grizzly hackle

Legs: Rubber

The Gang working on stimulators.

Monday March 14th

2011-03-15T12:34:00.004-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Karen and I are in Canmore skiing. Doug Pullen organized tonight's fly tying session and wrote up the text and took the pictures below. Thanks Doug.

Rick Miyauchi was our guest tyer tonight. Rick instructed 19 enthusiastic fly tyers who braved the heat waved that gripped Red Deer today. There was speculation that Rick would tie naked tonight but Rick felt that the group should stay focused on the 4 fly patterns that he offered the group. Based on years of experience, Rick has determined what elements within a fly that trigger a strike response. His focus is on the fly’s profile which satisfies the fish’s natural curiosity. Simple but effective is the name of the game.
Thanks Rick for a great evening of fly tying.

Doug reported that Dick Talleur passed away in February. Dick had written books and submitted articles to fly fishing magazines for decades. Doug also informed the group of Charlie Craven’s latest book “Charlie’s Fly Box”; lots of great patterns and detailed instructions. Doug also talked about a web site he discovered called “Fly Fishing Internet Radio”. There are many downloadable pod casts featuring interviews with almost every name in fly fishing you would care to listen to; a great source of information on every aspect of fly fishing.

The group was told that Dave Jensen will be presenting a video show on April 4 @ 7pm. Based on his New Zealand experience, he will bring some insight to the fascinating world of sight fishing for Trout rather than chasing hatches and snouts. There will be a $5 admission fee. At the conclusion of the video presentation, there will be a draw for some TU dinner auction tickets funded by the extra money raised by the fly tying club.

Next week is the Stimulator Challenge. Bring your favorite antron for stimies. We will start with size 8 and we will try to work our way down to size 16 (maybe).

The Last Resort Chironomid

Hook: Mustad C49 size 12

Thread: 8/0 black

Bead: 1/8 silver bead

Rib: fine copper wire

Body: 3 strands pheasant tail

Thorax: 1 strand of peacock herl

RK Mayfly Nymph

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 16

Thread: 8/0 black or olive

Tail: 6 strands of black hackle

Rib: fine copper wire

Body: 5-8 strands olive marabou (evenly tapered)

Thorax: 1 strand of peacock herl (1/3 hook shank)

Legs: 4 strands black hackle (tied in on sides of thorax)

Rick talking to the Gang.

Lots of concentration happening here!

Chabrous Nymph
Hook: Mustad C49 size 14
Body: chartreuse wire size brassie (coat with Hard as Hull)
Thread: 8/0 black
Thorax: grey dubbing

Notes: Try making a tri-coloured body using 3 separate coloured wire strands, ie- black/silver/red

Sparkle Booby

Hook: Mustad 3906 size 10

Thread: 6/0 olive

Body: small silver crystal chenille

Underbody: silver mirage

OverBody: olive fish hair

Eye Supports: 1/8 white booby foam

Eyes: adhesive stick-on eyes

Stoneflies and Hackle

2011-03-07T21:16:00.007-07:00

Hi Everybody!

John Howard and his wife, Bonny who own and operate Howard's Hackle spent the evening with us. Many of the gang bought hackle for their fly tying. John spent some time explaining to our club why it's going to be hard to purchase quality saddle hackle in the near future without reaching deep into our pocket book. It looked like many of us bought hackle for everything from streamers to small dry flies. Thanks John and Bonny for coming up to Red Deer and spending the evening with us.

Almost 25 of us got to work tying three stonefly patterns. The three patterns were based on tying recipes from Jeremy Davies and Phil Rowley. I do know that these are great patterns all year although I love to fish a size 10 golden stone nymph early in the season. Fish the Tri-wire stone in faster riffles. It should sink like a rock.

If you are looking for an excellent web site that has fly tying tutorials, do take some time to look over Charlie's Fly Box. You will find some of tonight's patterns on Charlie Craven's web site.

Next week, Rick is our guest tyer. Thanks Rick for switching dates with me. Again it was nice to see new faces in the group. Newcomers are always welcome.

Bob talking up a storm.

Tri-wire Stone

Bead: Gold 1/8 inch

Thread: Yellow 6/0 or 8/0

Hook: TMC (Tiemco) 200R sizes 8-12

Tail: Brown goose biots

Body: Gold, purple and red brassie wire (use black instead of purple too)

Shellback: pliable prismatic material (clear)

Thorax: rust/brown ice dub

Legs: Brown midge flex and Hungarian partridge feathers (natural)

Twenty Inch Stone

Bead: black 1/8 inch (its gold in the picture above, go for black)

Hook: TMC (Tiemco)200R sizes 6-10

Thread: Yellow 6/0 or 8/0

Tail: Brown goose or turkey biots

Rib: Copper wire

Body: Peacock herl or Peacock semi-seal dubbing

Shell back: Black Thin Skin cut to size

Thorax: Golden stone dubbing

Legs: Brown midge flex and Stillwater Solutions Hungarian partridge feathers (burnt orange)

Golden Stone Nymph

Hook: TMC (Tiemco) 200R sizes 8 to 12 (size 10 is my favorite)

Thread: Yellow 6/0 or 8/0

Bead: Gold 1/8 inch

Tail: Goose or turkey biots golden

Rib: Copper wire-small

Body: Golden stone dubbing (semi-seal)

Shellback: Stillwaters Solutions Midge Back; Summer Duck 1/8 inch

Thorax: Golden Stone dubbing (semi-seal)

Legs: Brown midge flex Stillwater Solutions Hungarian partridge feathers (burnt orange)

John Howard talking to the gang!

Bargain hunters looking for the perfect hackle for their flies.

Phil Nash thinking about growing a beard. Go for it Phil!

Katy tying stoneflies.

Colton and Glenn comparing flies!

Monday February 28th A Tribute to Sylvester Nemes

2011-02-28T21:30:00.008-07:00

Doug Pullen was our guest tyer tonight. Those of us who have taken in Doug's presentations in the past knew that we were in for a very educational evening of fly tying. Twenty three fly tyers came to learn about soft hackle flies. Doug brought along a number of books on soft hackle flies; several were authored by Sylvester Nemes who recently passed away. Sylvester Nemes loved soft hackle flies and he created a renewed interest in this type of fly.

Soft hackle flies date back to the 1400s and they maybe the oldest documented flies having a rich history in England. I saw Bernie smile when he heard this. The bodies of a soft hackle fly are usually made from silk, floss or peacock herl. The most popular feather for the soft hackle is from the Hungarian partridge. A sparse soft hackle is usually the most effective.

Soft hackle flies can imitate caddis pupae, drowned mayflies duns and spinners, caddis adults, stoneflies and winged terrestrials. It's amazing how a fly that has 500 years of history is still just as effective now as in the past.

Thanks, Doug, for a fantastic evening of fly tying. We are very appreciative of your effort to teach us all about Soft Hackle Flies.

Next week, Rick Miyauchi is our guest tyer. I wonder what Rick will wear? See you on March 7th.

The Sportsman Show is on the weekend. Willy is going to tie flies and teach interested people how to tie a basic fly. If you have some time on Saturday, drop Willy an e-mail and set up a time to lend a hand. Thanks for doing this Willy. You can e-mail Willy right here:

whspy@shaw.ca

Remember that John Howard from Howard's Hackle will be at next week's session. He will be set up at 6:30 p.m. If you have any specific orders, be sure to contact Howard Hackle with your order and he will bring it next Monday.

Bob

Doug Pullen

The Gang taking in Doug's presentation.

As always, Doug gave his audience a great deal of insight into Soft Hackle Flies.

Partridge and Orange Spider

Hook: Mustad 3906B size 12

Thread: 8/0 or 70 denier orange

Body:- Orange floss or silk

Hackle: Brown partridge

Pheasant Tail Flymph

Hook: 3906B size 12

Thread: 8/0 or 70 denier dark brown or black thread

Trailing Shuck: Brown and white z-lon

Ribbing: Fine gold or copper wire

Body: Pheasant tail

Thorax: Peacock herl

Hackle: Brown Partridge

Sly's (Sills) Midge

Hook: TMC 100 size 16

Thread: Black 8/0

Rib: Fine gold wire

Body: Peacock herl

Hackle: Grey Partridge

Gary and Rick tying their soft hackle flies.

Monday February 14th Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:29:00.006-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day Everybody!

Today Betty MacKenzie was our guest tyer. Betty taught 14 keen fly tyers about three of her favorite patterns. Betty loves Doc Spratley flies. She taught us 2 of her variations on this tried and true pattern. Betty also introduced us to her version of a backswimmer that has paid dividends for both her husband, Steve and herself. The photo above is Betty with a beautiful Tokaryk Lake rainbow taken on one of her Doc Spratley patterns. I saw first hand how effective Betty's Foam Backswimmer pattern was at Twin Lakes when the tiger trout slammed her imitation many times during the day. Betty's 30 plus years in education was very evident with her concise teaching instructions. I know several of the gang tonight will be busy tying these three patterns to add to their fly box. Great job Betty.

Just a reminder that there is NO fly tying next Monday because it is Family Day.

Doug Pullen is our guest tyer on Monday February 28th. Doug would like us to bring orange 8/0 thread to the session. The theme is Soft Hackle Flies.

Betty MacKenzie leading the group!

Doc Spratley

Thread: Black

Hook: Mustad 9671 size 12

Tail: Grizzly hackle

Body: Small black chenille wrapped with medium silver tinsel

Throat: Grizzly hackle

Wing: Pheasant rump feather

Head: Peacock herl

Crystal Spratley

Thread: Black

Hook: Mustad 9671 size 8

Tail: Grizzly hackle

Body: Green crystal chenille wrapped with fine copper wire

Throat: Grizzly hackle

Wing: Pheasant rump feather

Head: Peacock herl

Foam Backswimmer

Thread: Yellow or Olive 6/0 or 8/0

Hook: TMC (Tiemco) 100 size 10

Back: 1/4" strip of tan foam (2 mm or less)

Body: Green crystal chenille

Legs: Brown or black rubber legs

"The Boys" are busy!

Monday February 7th, 2011

2011-02-07T21:04:00.009-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Tim Maley was our guest tyer tonight and 25 enthusiastic tyers came to learn three excellent patterns. Two of Tim's flies tonight could be classified as a tying style that can be applied to many mayflies and stoneflies by simply adjusting the size and colour of materials. Tim's patterns were all easy to follow because of his excellent instruction. Tim's ant pattern made for some amazing days fishing in Southern British Columbia. I love turkey biots for making bodies and by adding a trude style wing, you have an excellent recipe for a mayfly dry fly. The stonefly pattern we tied tonight has a neat layered wing that makes the fly float high all day. Thanks again Tim for a very informative evening of fly tying.

Next week, Betty Mackenzie is our guest tyer. You will enjoy Betty's energy and passion for fly fishing.

Tim Maley

Tim's Ant

Hook: Standard dry fly size 14-16

Thread: Black 8/0

Body: white closed cell packing foam colored with black marker

Wing: White antron

Legs: black saddle hackle

Turkey Biot P.M.D. (Pale Morning Dun)

Hook: Regular dry fly sizes 14-18

Trailing Shuck: Rust antron

Body: Turkey biot

Wing: White antron or calf tail

Hackle: Ginger/light brown saddle hackle

The Titanic (unsinkable)

Hook: Standard dry fly size 6

Body: 2 mm closed foam tan

Underwing: brown antron

Overwing: Elk hair

Legs: grey saddle hackle

Bullet head: Elk Hair

Justin concentrating on his fly.

The Halvorsons focussed on constructing their flies.

All eyes on the fly, right Betty!

Karen tying up a stonefly!

Big Flies for BIG Fish , ... a Day with Phil Rowley

2011-02-05T17:06:00.007-07:00

Its a blustery Saturday and 24 members of the Central Alberta Fly Tyers spent the day learning to tie BIG flies with Phil Rowley. This was Phil's 5th trip to Red Deer and he taught us 8 great patterns. The group learned so many new ways to tie flies today. Phil is one of the best tying instructors. His seminars are detailed and very educational. We appreciate the "hands-on" approach that Phil uses. By the end of the day we were introduced to the world of tube flies, making double bunny flies, building articulated leeches and my personal favorite the MOAL (Mother of All Leeches). Phil's schedule is a bit crazy this time of the year and we are very appreciative of the time he put into today's seminar. A special thanks to Patsy Rowley for preparing all the materials. That takes a lot of time.

You can visit Phil's website right HERE.

Phil Rowley

The gang at work.

Paz and Doug concentrating on their flies.

Today's Patterns. All the images are from Phil's Presentation.

Monday January 31, 2011

2011-01-31T21:23:00.006-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Evan Ritchie was our guest tyer tonight and 25 tyers spent the evening learning to tie several bucktail streamers. Evan's streamers covered brook, brown and rainbow trout. Many of us had our first opportunity to tie jungle cock eyes into our streamers. Jungle cock is hard (and expensive) to get. As always, Evan brought several neat patterns. Evan says try some of them on the Bow River. They work great there and he also bets they will do well in some of the trophy lakes in Manitoba. Thanks Evan, for an excellent evening of fly tying instruction.

Next week, Tim Maley is our guest tyer. Tim has requested that everybody bring a needle (sewing variety) as well as yellow and green antron (we will have the antron on hand if you do not have any).

Remember that the Big Flies for Big Fish Workshop with Phil Rowley is this Saturday at West Park Middle School starting at 9 am. Come a bit early and have a coffee. We are going to put in an order for pizza or bring your lunch. There will be a materials fee of $10. If you have the following material, please bring it:

〈 6/0 White Thread

〈 6/0 or 3/0 Yellow Thread

〈 Holographic or Red Flashabou

〈 Red Crystal Flash

〈 Pearl Crystal Flash

〈 Superglue for attaching eyes, Loctite Gel Type preferred (Wal-Mart)

〈 Gold Mylar, Tinsel, or Diamond Braid

〈 Dubbing Spinner

〈 Side cutters for cutting hooks and wire etc.

Tonight we also had a visit from Jason Cooper, a biologist, from Alberta Fish and Wildlife. He brought several donated boxes of tying material from Jim Currie(I may have the spelling wrong). I will take a look at the material and distribute it in the next week or so.

Little Brook Trout

Hook: Streamer 2-12 XL

Tail: Bright green bucktail

Rib: Flat silver

Body: White yarn or dubbing

Wing: Four hair layers, badger over green over orange over white bucktail

Head: Black lacquered

Little Brown Trout Bucktail

Hook: streamer 2-12 XL

Tail: small pheasant breast feather

Rib: Red wire

Body: White yarn or dubbing

Wing: Four layers of hair, dark brown squirrel over dark grey squirrel over red bucktail over yellow bucktail

Cheeks: Jungle Cock Eyes or sub

Head: Black lacquered

Little Rainbow Trout Bucktail

Hook: Streamer 2-12 XL

Tail: Green bucktail

Rib: Silver tinsel

Body: Pink-white yarn or dubbing

Wing: Four layers of hair, badger over bright green over pink over white bucktail

Cheeks: Jungle Cock Eyes or sub

head: Black laquered

Bernie says this fly is perfection.

Lining up the jungle cock eyes.

The Gang

Monday January 24th, 2011

2011-01-24T21:53:00.005-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Bernie Peet was our guest fly tyer tonight. 22 fly tyers were taught 4 highly effective British fly patterns. Bernie is a very precise tyer. He likes to ensure that each pattern has the proper proportions. That certainly helps to make his patterns great imitations that trout find hard to refuse. Bernie did forget his vice and that meant he had to endure Bob's Thompson Vice. Another excellent evening thanks to Bernie's leadership.

We have but one spot left for the Phil Rowley Fly Tying Seminar on February 5th. Let Bob know if you want to come.

We now have 8 spots taken on the trip to The Parkland Region of Manitoba on June 9th-June 13th. Phil Rowley will be hosting the trip along with Bob and Karen Vanderwater. There are still 4 spots left although Phil will be offering those 4 spots to any interested fly fishers starting this Friday January 28th at the Canadian Fly Fishing Exposition. I would love to see the trip fill up with our gang. If you decide to go, contact Bob by Thursday.

Remember that the Canadian Fly Fishing Exposition is this weekend in Calgary at Spruce Meadows.

Next week Evan Ritchie is our guest tyer. Evan is one of the original members who got this fly tying group up and running. I think Evan is going to buy a new bottle of head cement before next week. He discovered that his head cement was "Hard as Nails." Grin!

Bernie Peet at the vice!

The Crisp Packet Buzzer

Hook: Size 12 scud/midge hook, eg. Daiichi 1130

Thread: 8/0 black or olive for the green version

Rib: Fine flat pearl mylar

Cheeks: Orange foil from Doritos tangy cheese flavour

Optional thorax cover: Medium pearl mylar

Coated with: Hard as Hull or Hard as Nails

The Shipman’s Buzzer

Thread: Black or red 8/0

Hook: Size 12, wet fly standard shank(2x long),, eg. Daiichi 1550

Breathers: White Antron yarn

Rib: Medium pearl mylar

Body: Black reddish brown, orange or green seal’s fur or other rough dubbing

Diawl Bach (Little Devil)

Hook: Size 12, wet fly standard shank (1x or 2x long), eg. Daiichi 1550

Thread: Reddish brown or red 8.0

Tail: Small bunch of red/brown or ginger cock hackle (Cheap Chinese or Indian will do)

Body: 2-3 strands of peacock herl

Rib: Medium copper wire.

Beard hackle: As tail

Bernie’s Daiwl Bach Variant

As above but:

Rib: Fine holographic red tinsel

Head/thorax: Small (ideally) or medium black crystal chenille (no beard hackle)

Bernie loves chronomids!

The gang at work.

Monday January 17, 2011

2011-01-17T21:16:00.008-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Dr. Bill Young was our guest tyer tonight. Bill had 24 avid fly tyers learn to tie 2 pike flies that Bill used in the Yukon to catch monster pike. We learned to tie a mouse pattern with deer hair and made an enormous foam pattern that the group offered up several names. The group thought the foam looked like licorice so Bill had a flashback to younger days and called it "All Sorts" while Betty suggested calling it "Buffy the Pike Slayer." Both flies will certainly entice a plump pike. Thanks, Bill, for another marvalous tying session. Remember don't let your cat get near that deer hair mouse!

There are 2 spots left for the Rowley Workshop on February 5th. Phil will like to remind everybody that he is saving the June 9th to June 13th for our group in Manitoba. Let me know before the Canadian Fly Fishing Exposition that is at Spruce Meadows the final weekend in January. At that time, Phil will open up the trip to any interested fly fishers. We still have 8 spots left. Let Bob or Karen know if you want to get in on this fabulous trip.

Next week Bernie Peet is our guest tyer. I bet there will be an English fly pattern or two. See you then!

Dr. Bill Young

Deer Hair Mouse

Hook: size 2 4xl hook with a wide gap (we used a steelhead hook with a turned up eye)

Tail: polypropolene

Body: Deer hair

"All Sorts' or "Buffy the Pike Slayer"

Hook: Size 4 (e.g. Mustad 9672)

Tail: Deer Hair

Body: Antron (color to suit)

Hackle: Brown saddle

Legs: Rubber

Rib: Copper Wire

Body: Foam glued (orange, black and tan) with 3 M spray adhesive (super 77) You can buy it at Canadian Tire.

Our tying group has all ages.

Nice mouse Katy!

Concentration!

The gang at work!

Monday January 10, 2011

2011-01-10T21:29:00.008-07:00

Hi Everybody!

Phil Nash was our guest tyer tonight. 21 tyers made it out to learn how to tie a San Juan Worm with Larva Lace and a Letort Hopper. The Larva Lace San Juan Worm is a great looking pattern that will certainly produce on our trout waters. The translucent effect of the larva lace with an acetate floss underbody certainly makes the pattern effective. The Letort Hopper is a straight forward pattern that requires some precision with deer hair. Phil's presentation was excellent. We also appreciate Phil's effort to drive in from Wetaskiwin on such a cold night.

A few important notes. We have just two (maybe three spots) for the Phil Rowley Saturday Workshop on February 5th. The theme is Big Flies for Big Fish. Call or e-mail Bob to secure a spot.

A return trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba is in the final planning stage. The trip starts Thursday June 9th with supper at Arrow Lake Lodge and goes to Monday June 13th. Monday June 13th your are on your own to travel back home or fish. The cost is $625 (I was $25 off in my last post, sorry). The 4 days will include daily seminars, hands on fishing including time with Phil in his boat. The cost also includes all food and accommodation. The trip will be offered to our group exclusively until the end of January.

The camaraderie on this trip makes for lots of fun. Phil Rowley does a great job with the seminars and out on the water. This trip has 12 spots and 4 are already gone (from our group). Let Bob know asap if you want to get on the trip.

Phil Nash leading the group

Larva Lace San Juan Worm

Hook: Mustad 37160 sizes 2 to 12

Thread: red 6/0

Underbody: Acetate floss (try pink, red and maroon) covered with flex cement

Overbody: Larva Lace clear/medium

Letort Hopper

Hook: standard dry fly hook sizes 6 to 10

Body: yellow fentex (or equivalent)

Wing:Deer hair

Head: Deer Hair

A Great Start to a New Fly Tying Season

2011-01-03T21:27:00.007-07:00

Happy 2011 Everybody!

The Central Alberta Fly Tyers kicked off the 2011 tying season at West Park Middle School. 23 tyers made it out. We had several newcomers out tonight. That was impressive considering were were competing with Team Canada playing the USA at the World Juniors. Way to go Canada with a solid 4-1 victory! Tonight's theme was the Pheasant Tail Nymph. There are many variations of Frank Sawyer's original pattern that was tied with merely pheasant and copper wire. We tied the pheasant tail nymph unweighted and with a bead.

Bob and Karen also put on a slide show that included the club trips to the Parkland Region of Manitoba and their trip to Tasmania and New Zealand.

We have a few reminders for you. We are quickly filling up the Phil Rowley Workshop on Saturday February 5th. There are 5 spots remaining. The theme is Big Flies for Big Fish. It will be an excellent workshop that will include everything from tube flies, double bunnies and gurglers. I will post a detailed itinerary in a day or two.

I have had several inquiries about a return trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba. Phil, Karen and I have secured Arrow Lake Lodge in the Parkland Region of Manitoba. from June 9th to the 13th. We will be offering the trip to our club members first until the end of January and then it will be opened up to any takers. The trip will cost approximately $600. That will include accommodation, food, seminars and fishing with Phil on the lakes. The seminars will be largely new material. The trip will be limited to 12 individuals.

Next week Phil Nash is our presenter. You will enjoy Phil's sense of humour. Phil has two flies planned that will be welcome additions to your fly box. See you next Monday.

The Gang Tying Pheasant Tail Nymphs

Frank Sawyer's original pheasant tail nymph tied with pheasant tail and copper wire

Unweighted Pheasant Tail Nymph

Hook: Nymph hook-Mustad 9671/ 3906B/curved caddis hooks sizes 10-18

Tail: pheasant tail

Body: pheasant tail

Rib: copper wire

Shellback: pheasant tail

Thorax: peacock herl

Orange Butt Pheasant Tail

Bead: gold, brass, black 7/64th

Tail: Pheasant

Butt: hot orange rabbit

Body: pheasant tail

Rib: copper wire

Shellback: pearl mylar

Thorax: peacock herl

Flashback Nymph

Bead: gold, brass, black 7/64th

Tail: peasant tail

Body: pheasant tail

Shell back: pearl mylar

Thorax: peacock herl

Legs: midge flex-brown

Rib:copper wire small

The Upcoming Fly Tying Season

2010-10-03T04:47:00.009-06:00

Hi Everybody!

We are still looking for leaders for the tying club this year. Let Bob know if you are able to led an evening session. Thanks to the folks that have offered to step up and do a session. The 2011 Fly Tying Season starts Monday January 3 at West Park Middle School (please note the new location). We hope to run the club in a similar fashion to year's past. Each Monday for about 12 weeks will have a guest fly tyer. The cost of each session is $3.00 which will cover the costs of the materials and room rental.

Karen and I are travelling in Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand until Christmas.

If you want to see what we are up to, just take a look at our travel blog:

Bob and Karen's Travel Blog

If you would consider running one of the tying sessions, please drop me a note. The dates are below. I will update the guest tyers when I am near an internet connection.

Oh yes, if have a fly fishing picture or two to post on the blog, just e-mail me with the picture and details.

Here are the dates:

Monday January 3 Bob Vanderwater
Monday January 10 Phil Nash
Monday January 17 Dr. Bill Young
Monday January 24 Bernie Peet
Monday January 31 Evan Ritchie

Saturday February 5th Phil Rowley Workshop Big Flies for Big Fish (cost $30 plus a materials fee)

Monday February 7 Tim Maley
Monday February 14 Betty MacKenzie
Monday February 21 Family Day no tying
Monday February 28 Doug Pullen

Monday March 7
Monday March 14
Monday March 21
Monday March 28

More Tigers from Twin Lakes

2010-09-08T20:05:00.004-06:00

Two lucky participants from our Fall trip stayed an extra day and fished Twin Lakes. The Tiger Trout were looking up for Betty and Steve. They managed a couple dozen Tigers before heading over to Bullshead where I understand the fishing is excellent too.

Steve with a colourful Tiger Trout.

Betty with a hog of a Tiger!

Doug's BIG Rainbow from Patterson Lake

2010-09-07T13:38:00.002-06:00

Yes we have photo evidence of the monster rainbow that Doug Pullen caught near the "Mass Grave Site." What a beauty trophy Doug. Congratulations. Thank goodness Rick was there to take the picture.

Manitoba Trip in the Fall

2010-09-06T20:27:00.007-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Seven members of the Central Alberta Fly Tyers headed back to the Parkland Region of Manitoba with Phil Rowley to enjoy the trophy fishing at Twin Lake for Tiger Trout along with Patterson and Tokaryk Lakes for brown and rainbows. Phil also had 4 other fly fishers join our group. We stayed at "Barn in the Bush." It was an old barn, converted into rooms that made our stay quite comfortable. Our lodging was exactly half way between Roblin and Russell. Phil presented three seminars over the course of our stay. Karen and I acted as hosts.

We headed over to Tokaryk Lake first but the lake was not as cooperative as last June. Everybody had to work hard for their fish. Betty nailed a beauty of a rainbow on one of her reliable leech patterns. Several trophy quality rainbows were caught on chronomids, leech patterns and flashbacks.

On day two, we headed to Patterson Lake. The weather was blustery although more stable than the previous day. The blustery weather created a "wind lane" between two islands and we found fish concentrated in this area. The fish seemed to be foraging for bait fish; small bait fish. The pattern that worked well was a size 12 flashback. Many trophy fish were caught at Patterson. Doug caught a rainbow that was close to 28 inches long and it was heavy. Doug and Rick headed way down the lake to the Mass Grave Area at Patterson. They were rewarded with several monster rainbows and a hefty brown. I hope to post a picture of Doug's BIG rainbow in the next day or so. Karen caught the biggest brown of her life in the "Wind Lane" on a flashback. Phil Nash had a big smile on his face as he continously caught big rainbows. Betty and Steve got into some beauties too. Betty almost lost her rod. She was photographing Steve as he tangled with a big rainbow and she had a take on her rod at the same time. Thank goodness Betty had fast reflexes. The flashback was king for many in the group.

We finally headed over to Twin Lakes to sample the Tiger Trout fishery. The night before we had a seminar on water boatman and backswimmers. We arrived at Twin Lakes where we had to contend with rain showers but by early afternoon the rain settled down while the backswimmers and boatman came out. So did the Tiger Trout. Doug found a spot that was amazing. Doug gave a BIG "Yahoo" after catching his 14th Tiger. Boatman, backswimmers and cherynoble ant patterns were a hit. Many trophy Tigers were caught. The Tiger Trout give a great fight and they are blast to catch on the surface.

We had a fabulous time in Manitoba. The socializing within the group was a big hit for all. Phil Nash kept us all in stitches with his hilarious anecdotes and stories. Phil Rowley's seminars were very informative, as always. The last evening we had a slide show of all the action. So many big rainbows, browns and tiger trout were caught.

Yes we are going back. I have already booked Arrow Lake Lodge for June 11 to 18th, 2011. The lodge is 15 minutes from Patterson and Tokaryk Lakes. Phil will also be along with different seminars and more information to share. More details will follow.

If you want to read more about our trip, head over to Phil's blog.

Bob

Karen with a Tiger Trout.

Backswimmers were out to play. The trout loved them!

Phil Nash tangling with one of many trophy rainbows at Patterson Lake.

Karen's BIG brown at Patterson Lake

Betty's trophy rainbow at Tokaryk Lake.

Rick pitching in at "Barn in the Bush."

Flashbacks caught a lot of trout in Manitoba.

Hook: size 8 to size 18 curved caddis hook or Mustad 9671

Thread: red 8/0 or 6/0

Tail: Pheasant

Rib: Small copper wire

Bead: gold or black

Thorax: peacock herl

Shellback: pheasant and pearl mylar

Details for the Fall Trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba

2010-07-01T14:13:00.005-06:00

Hi Everybody!

A return trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba is in the works. The trip will again be hosted by Bob and Karen Vanderwater helping with all the logistics and by Phil Rowley, who will do extensive sessions on stillwater fishing in the fall. The dates are September 2 to 6th. Just like the first trip to Manitoba's Parkland Region, there will be an educational focus. The fall is the time that the rainbows, browns and tiger trout will be putting the feed bag on in preparation for the winter months. It is a favorite time of the year for me to fly fish.

We will be staying either in Russell or around Rossman Lake (very close to Patterson Lake). The cost of the trip will be approximately $550. That will include food, accommodation and all the seminars. All the seminars will occurr in the evening as well as a debriefing session about the day and any necessary fly tying.

Phil will be posting a comprehensive itinerary on Phil' s blog in a week or so. The trip will be limited to 12 individuals. Like the last trip, we will make the trip available to our gang first and then we will open up any available slots to anybody who is interested.

Karen and I are away for the next three weeks. You can contact Phil VIA e-mail:

"Philip Rowley"

to book your spot for the trip!

Bob

Fall Trip to the Parkland Region of Manitoba

2010-06-24T09:34:00.002-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Phil Rowley and I have are in the planning stages of a fall trip back to the Parkland Region of Manitoba. The trip has been planned for September 2nd to 6th. The full program is being mapped out right now but promises to be educational, fun with plenty of opportunity for fly fishing for trophy trout. The cost will be $550.

The final details will be posted early next week. Again we will be looking at a group of about 12 participants.

Call me if you want to get on the trip. I suspect it will fill quickly!

Bob

Cutthroat Fishing on the North Ram

2010-06-20T21:14:00.002-06:00

Hi Everybody!

Byron and I hit the North Ram today. The fishing was very good. Take a look here for a summary of our day!

North Ram Fishing!

Did You See This?

2010-06-19T18:34:00.001-06:00

A sturgeon estimated at 35 kg was pulled out of the ponds at Riverbend Gold Course by local biologists. Take a look here for the complete story. Very cool!

Bob

Fly Fishing Seminar with Dave and Emily Whitlock

2010-06-17T08:59:00.002-06:00

The Whitlock’s will be doing 2 days of seminars on Saturday & Sunday October 17 & 18th at the Delta Inn South (the old Hospitality Inn). Each day will run from 9 to 4 or so. Tickets are $75 if bought before September 15th; $100 after the 15th. The event is sponsored by Trout Unlimited Canada. More details will follow once the tickets are printed.

Bob

Terrific Tokaryk Tanks

2010-06-11T20:17:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Larry McAllister, the Manitoba pics have been consolidated and the disks are ready to be picked up at Bob's place. Here are some quality fish caught by the guys from our club

Rick tangling with large rainbow.

Tyler with his first rainbow!

Check out the colors on this chrome rainbow that Doug caught.

Bernie with one of his fabulous trophies.

Larry with a monster!

Phil Rowley's Article on our Trip to Manitoba

2010-06-10T22:55:00.001-06:00

Head over here:

http://flycraftanglingadventures.blogspot.com/

for an excellent summary of our trip to Manitoba.

cheers

Bob