Carp Fever

Are you serious right now?

Damn Carp!  Just when I think I've got them figured out, they go and mess with my emotions and my head.  For years, I've taken time to chase carp during the spring.  Their early season displays lead one to believe that their aggressiveness and assertiveness would be imposed upon a well presented fly.  This is the behavior that leads to...CARP FEVER.  Each year I get it earlier, and each year leaves me wishing I had focused my early season fishing efforts elsewhere.

This year I had the antidote.  The cure that would free me from this figurative mental prison that holds me from May until late October.   I had come to a consensus with myself that, yes, my mind and emotions would be strictly focused on big rainbows, pike, white bass, smallies, and walleye in 2015.  There are, however, other causes of carp fever...unfortunately for me, it's contagious!



My friends have had carp fever for a few weeks now.  Scouting trips, fishing attempts, and even a few landed fish photos have been sent my way.  All acting as consistent reminders that carp season is near.  Just like the spring air, I felt my temperature rising.  Don't let the fever take hold!  Like a child fighting the urge to sleep, I fought this fever.  A 70 degree Sunday afternoon was when the fever finally took hold.  At 5:30, I took my fishing partner in search of active fish.  We arrived at a favorite spot nearby, one with very active carp all season.  Nothing big, but I knew there would be fish there.  Sure enough, a few had already gone into their spring ritual.  Tail dancing through the shallows like dolphins at play.

It's strange pulling a set of waders on before pursuing carp.  Wet wading in the warm sun has become one of my favorite reasons to chase them.  This cold water gear almost doesn't allow for the carp fishing mentality.  But it's not enough to fight the fever.

Tiny baitfish scattered from under the bridge.  A perfect place to begin in terms of presentation.  I begin casting my micro-clauser deep.  A few casts in, I've got the perfect rhythm of a slow steady retrieve that has become synonymous with much of my early season fishing, especially for carp.  Sloooowwww strip...pause.  Sloooowwww strip...pause.  Sloooowwww str...LINE STOPS.  I strip set into a nice fish.  Two head shakes and it's gone.   This location offers great spring fishing for many species.  Could have been a channel cat, could have been a whitey, could have been a walleye, hopeful it was a carp.  I didn't have it on long enough to feel comfortable venturing a guess.  I start the process again.  Three casts later, the line stops again.  I strip set into another nice fish.  This time, it's not going anywhere.  It crashes to the surface revealing a brilliant copper body and dark olive back.  It then heads for deeper water.  "Did I snag it," I wondered as I motioned him back toward shore.  The ease at which I controlled the fish suggested otherwise.  It took the bait.   Top lip...

There are days when carp fishing can befuddle even the most adept fishing enthusiast.  One day you'll catch 20, the next, you MIGHT land one.  I had only been fishing for about 15 minutes, and I already had two on the line.  What a great afternoon.

Over the next hour I would land another two fish and lose two more.  Not a bad outing for a quick carp adventure.  I checked my temperature when I arrived back home.  The digital thermometer read, "Carp Fever".  I didn't know it had that setting.  Looks like I'll be calling in sick to work tomorrow.  Damn carp!  Just when I think I've got them figured out...

Tying to Catch a Fish

The annual Bighorn River adventure holds a special place in the hearts of Tuesday Tyers members who have participated.  When I first joined the group, spectacular tales of fish catching, river tips and tricks, and planning talk for future trips filled our tying nights.  When I was invited to tag along, I was nervous.  "What if I don't catch any fish?" I thought.  It wasn't until I joined this group on their adventure that I realized that catching fish (while always a goal) was not the ultimate objective.  This trip means more than just fish.  It is an escape... from others and ourselves.  It is a chance to wade waste deep in water with thousands of fish who are happy to set up in the feeding lane behind your legs.  A chance to drift effortlessly down a river full of beauty and majesty.  A chance to meet friendly folks both enjoying the resource and using it to make a living.  All of this while trying to get close to some of the most beautiful fish one can imagine.

I'm bummed to not be going on this year's adventure, but excited for those who are planning to attend.  To help them get ready for the trip, and to provide a few laughs in the process, here is a video of last year's adventure.  Mostly just fish being released, but some good memories mixed in.  Enjoy!


 
Bighorn 2014 from Buddy Seiner on Vimeo.

Why I Fish...This might take a while.

A carp bolting back onto the flat.  It never gets old.  

I bet the most commonly asked question of fishing enthusiasts by friends and family who are rarely seen holding a rod and reel is, "So...Why do you fish anyway?"

I never really have a good "elevator" reply for why I fish.  Mainly because there are a variety of reasons that seem to change each time out.  I know I'm guilty of mentally asking the same question of others who enjoy a pasttime that's not my cup of tea.  It may be difficult for them to express just how much they enjoy a particular activity, and it may not.  It really doesn't matter.  If something makes us happy, and is not immoral, I'd say it doesn't require explanation.

I, on the other hand, would like more people to pursue fly fishing.  I believe that more fly fishing enthusiasts in the world mean more people working hard to protect our wildlife and fisheries.  For that reason, I need an elevator pitch.  I need a quick statement that let's people know why I fish in hopes that they will be intrigued enough to inquire further into the prospect of trying for themselves.  Maybe by the end of this I'll have something thought out.  Until then, here is a list of my top ten reasons I love to fly fish.

9 - The moment when you hook into a big fish:  I was standing in the cold Rapid Creek water approaching a deep hole.  New to fly fishing, this was trial under fire.  A seam holding two big fish and my constituents giving me the first shot at landing one while they watch from shore.  Finding a sturdy hold in the creek, I begin casting to the top of the hole.  Time and time again my fly drifted through with nothing to show for it.  It seemed like I stood casting to those trout for an eternity.  As a noob, I felt the seconds turn into minutes and began worrying about the guys on shore.  Are they checking their clocks?  Do they want to start casting?  But my comfort level was still well enough to keep on.  These were the biggest trout I had ever presented a fly to, and I wanted to know what it felt like to land one.  With each drift I would watch as the trout lazily swayed from left to right munching the entire time.  Until, one seemed to open it's mouth wider than it had before.  My indicator twitched only slightly when I set the hook.  "A snag," I thought, while I lifted the rod.  It felt like a cinderblock on the other end of my 5x tippet.  And then the head shakes began, and the fight was on.  My heart and mind started into race, almost against each other.  One trying to determine how to land this fish among the fast water below, water hazards and slippery rocks, the other just trying to give me enough blood to stay conscious.  The brown didn't fit in my net, but I got it to hand.  I was mocked the rest of the day for having a "barbie" net.  I'll never forget the hookset.  Like a cinderblock.

8 - Solitude:  Standing all alone on a stream when big snow flakes are falling;  casting to 7 lb rainbow trout when it is 10 degrees and the wind is howling; casting for carp on the flats of Lake X...the list goes on and on.  Having always held professional positions that require a vast amount of communication, fishing provides a getaway.  No problems, no deadlines, no worries.  The only listening that is required is to nature and the only talking I do is with my golden retriever.  It's an amazing feeling.

7 - Fishing in the rain:  The pitter-patter of raindrops on my hood creates music to my ears.  The droplets falling from the bill of my hat make me feel sheltered and warm in my fishing cacoon.  The smell makes me feel like a kid.  And the fish...boy do they bite in the rain.  I don't know if I've ever had a bad day fishing in the rain.  And not many other people like to do it, so someone has to catch fish on rainy days!

6 - Anticipation, daydreaming, and possibility:  I don't only tie flies in the winter like many folks.  Often on weekends and lazy weekday evenings, you'll find me at the tying bench, or table, or nightstand, or whatever will hold my vise, dreaming up new patterns and the fish that will eat them.  On the water, like most people with fish on the brain, I always believe that next cast is going to produce a fish.  One last cast usually turns into 10 or 20.  One of the great things about fishing is that you never really know what will fall for your presentation until it happens.  You never know which spot is going to hold that fish you've dreamed up while tying.  I still get giddy and excited before a fishing trip, even the short ones around home.  I guess I'll probably still enjoy it until that feeling goes away, maybe even after.

Vote for this photo on TU's facebook page Nov 3-11
I could win a fly rod!!

5 - Getting up close and personal with a wild animal:  I wish I had taken up flyfishing as a young child.  I recall with great delight my childhood visits to the grandparents' house in Spearfish.  Standing on the bridge near the fish hatchery scanning the creek below for feeding trout was a favorite pastime.  I could always spot  them in the turbid water and only wanted to get a closer look.  They are all so unique and beautiful, like a fingerprint.   Each warrants special attention when they are brought to hand.  Great care is taken to release them unharmed (outside of the small hook hole in their mouth) and as much time as they'll allow is invested in watching as they escape back to the honeyhole.  You can't get any closer to enjoying nature and not taking a life.

4 - Skillz pay the billz:  As often as I try to find solitude while fishing, I am happy to share a fishing hole or location when fellow fishing enthusiast are present.  More often than not, I will also end up sharing my strategy for catching fish with them.  I am usually very fortunate on the water, which has a lot to do with the lucky flies that I tie, and people take notice.  "what are you using?" they'll ask after I release a few fish.  I'll take a second to explain the fly and give them a look at the pattern I'm using before they're almost guaranteed to reply, "I've got a fly rod at home somewhere, I should get that thing out".  Plain and simple, I can catch fish with a fly rod when others won't.  I've landed fish after fish in locations surrounded by bait and artificial lures alike without seeing another fish brought to hand.  I have confidence in this tactic and take a lot of luck out of the equation.  With the fly, I'm presenting to all of the fish's senses vs. a select few.  They can't help but eat it.  

3 - It's very challenging:  Now that I've explained how well fly fishing works, I'll get to the caveat.  Fly fishing gets easier with education.  I've been humbled many a day fishing for various species in various locations.  Even today I find myself in situations, chasing fish that I'm not prepared to pursue.  Fly fishing requires constant improvement and improvisation to stay one step ahead of your quarry.  This applies at the fly tying desk as much as it does on the water.  Preparation and education are key to being a "good" fly fisher.  I love getting smarter every day.

2 - Evolution:  Our family fishing tournaments remain as some of my most cherished and vivid

memories from childhood.  It was here where I began to evolve and adapt as a fisherman.  It all started with salmon eggs.  What a great way to catch trout as a kid.  I wittnessed the largest rainbow I'd ever seen caught when I was around 11 or 12.  Hanging out of its mouth was a red and white daredevil.  I never used live bait after that.  Soon I discovered gift shop flys and their propensity to attract rainbows behind a clear bobber.  I would draw crowds because I was catching so many fish.  Everyone wanted to know how I was doing it, and I had no idea why it worked.  I sure put the acting hat on though.  Could have given me one of those meaningless awards they give to celebrities for pretending to be other people.  My uncle gave me my first fly rod and introduced me to fly fishing cinema.  Trout Bum diaries was the first video I watched.  I was hooked forever.  I enjoy reminiscing about my progression through the phases of fishing.  I only wish that I had been introduced to fly fishing at a younger age.

1 - Spending time with good friends and family:    While solitude is more my game nowadays, I still find great value in fishing with those that I enjoy spending time with.  My dad and brother always entertain me, while the tuesday tyers continue to surprise me with their talents.   My girls have continued to show interest and have caught some fish all on their own.  I hope they both stick with it.  My favorite fishing partner, however, is Lucy.  She's the best dog around and even loves fishing more than me.  She told me so.



If you don't fly fish now, I hope you will consider trying it.  If my reasons don't persuade you, maybe you can think of a few others that would make it sound more appealing.  If you love to fish, I'd like to hear why.  See if we have some common ground.  Now go fishing.  You deserve it!

How can you HATE the Bighorn River?

I had an interesting conversation with a guide/fly snob prior to heading out west.

Me:  Yeah, we're haeding out to the Bighorn for a week.  Pretty excited about it.











Fishing Snob:  Hmm...I hate the Bighorn.  Too many people.  I'd much rather go someplace else.













Me:  Hmm...Good to know.  See you later.

How can you hate the Bighorn River?  I get that it's one of the most heavily fished streams in Montana. I get that fly snobs and enthusiasts will travel from all around for the chance to show their stuff, or get a heavy dose of humility.  But to say you HATE the bighorn river because of other fisherman is snobbery at its finest.

The Bighorn boasts 10,000 fish per mile.

 The best part of our three full days of fishing, I caught all of my fish in near solitude.  Whether because I was fishing while it was 15 degrees fahrenheit on day one,  fishing spots that had been passed up time and time again, or just finding the "fishy" spots, I was catching fish without competing with the masses.  At one point during day one, a great group of guys from Spokane approached me to see if they could fish the stretch of water around me.  I'm not sure if they had watched me catch a few fish, or if they were genuinely interested in this stretch of water.  I let them have it, chatted for a while and moved on to the next hole.  I'll camp out on a spot once I find some fish, but I'm not going to be opposed to moving on unless I know there is a beast in there I've yet to catch.  Even then, I'd still be willing to let a fellow fishing enthusiast have their shot.  As long as they aren't a snob.  Like I said, if I can't find a few fish out of 10,000 per mile, I might need to go back to the drawing board.

We had a great trip out west, and it's something I've come to look forward to throughout the year.  Not only because of the fishing, but the challenge presented (elements, bugs, changing conditions), camaraderie, and chance to see some magnificent fish up close and personal.  Don't turn into a fishing spot snob.  Let's find appreciation for the great resources around us and make the most of our time on the water with friends and family.  Life is too short to hate a fishing spot, or to not fish the Bighorn River. Here are some more snapshots of some beauties you won't find anywhere else:

The Brown Fly

My mom got me some cool magazines from across the pond for an unexpected xmas gift.  It's been fun to read about different flies, unique techniques and hear insider tips from guides in other countries.  I came across a recipe for a classic Salmon fly called the "Brown Fly" in Fly Fishing and Fly Tying Magazine.  This fly originated in Ireland and Scotland, becoming popular on dark windy days on slower runs.  It is a pattern by William Blacker (1850) and has gone through a number of transformations since then.

While chasing the big rainbows that move into the marina in the winter/spring months, I've heard stories from other fisherman who have experienced success.  One story from my neighbor quickly came to mind when reading about this fly.  He recalls fishing the marina with a "big brown fly with wings" and doing very well with the big rainbows and fall salmon.  Dark, windy days are commonplace in Pierre (especially so far this year), so I tied up a variation of the Brown Fly to try on the next gloomy day.  My wife thinks it should be called the Cardinal.   I don't know about that.  I just think it'll catch fish...

Of the "Brown Fly" variety.  Pumped to try it. 

The Toothier The Better

They're getting a bit bigger...

While chasing spring rainbows in the bays and marinas of Pierre, it's inevitable that you'll eventually cross paths with the toothy northern pike that occupy the river system in abundance.  Pierre (lake Oahe in particular) is knows nationally for producing some of the largest spring northerns around.  While traditional fisherman utilize quick-strike rigs, treble hooks and large chubs or shiners; the right fly has a special way of enticing northerns to take a bite.  While I've yet to venture up top (to Lake Oahe) for spring/summer Northerns on the fly, I hope to this year.  40"+ fish are commonplace, and I'm willing to guess they would be more than willing to try the fly.  Not likely they've seen it much before.  Seems to me there is going to be some unmet demand this spring.  Time to get the boat ready...

This guy took a "dying" streamer presentation

Fly Tying Tuesday: The Kreelex

Last weekend was so much fun for me.  It only accounted for three fish (and almost a few other monsters) and was thanks, in large part, to The Kreelex.  The Kreelex is a fly composed of all flash and is almost irresistible to trout.  I've tied this pattern in silver and gold for rainbows, but gold and copper work well for brownies.  Tie some of these up and go hammer some early season trout.  Great pattern in the winter as well.  Double peace!

So Pumped Right Now!

I don't really have anything to say at this point.  Still too pumped about today.  Persistence and positivity pay off I guess.  The photos will say it all.

1st of two hogs caught in Oahe Marina on Saturday

This is one of the many reasons why I fish.

I was so pumped!!

Agony of Defeat: Promise of Tomorrow

In search of the elusive Oahe Marina Rainbow

It's not easy to accept defeat on the water when acknowledging it is typically against the rules.  I'm fine with coming off a stretch of water with no fish because: a) I've likely caught fish there a time or two before, and B) spending time on the water is more than reward enough for me.  Unless, however, I'm chasing rainbow trout in Oahe Downstream marina.

Let me go back to the beginning.  I started this blog by writing about the possibility of catching 3, 5, 7, 9 pound trout with regularity.  That's how it used to be anyway.  Now, they are somewhat few and far between, but still there.  They cruise the sanctity of the marina throughout the winter months and into early spring in search of easy prey.  Sounds like easy pickins for fly guys.  Turns out, it's not that easy for me.

Today's weather report:  33 degrees, overcast and breezy.  "Perfect," I thought.  No other fisherman will be on the water, the fish will be relatively unspookable, and I can key in on a few select presentations that should do the trick.  I ducked out at 3:30, picked up the pup and hit the marina.  As I suspected, no fisherman and perfect conditions.  This was the day I would bring a big Oahe Marina bow to hand.  So I thought.

My uncle holds a nice bow taken in the marina back in the "glory days"

For the past three years, this challenge has eluded me.  Early on, my lack of dedication to the challenge persistently decided my fate.  Only getting to the marina on one or two occasions during undesirable conditions is no way to beat these big bows.  Even when I would put in the hours, the fish performing a perfect disappearing act or my inability to find the right presentation would again leave me skunked.   It wouldn't be so bad if I hadn't heard success stories from friends and family members.  My two uncles who reminisce about the days of catching 16+ fish in a day that weighed over 3 lbs a piece.  Other fisherman, whether by fly line or spinning real, landing 9+ lb rainbows and hanging their "trophy" photos in the nearby marina store.

So there I was, Lucy and I, on our first attempt at the elusive Oahe Marina Rainbows.  While I am always optimistic and confident when it comes to fishing, I've found myself beginning to doubt my skills as a fisherman.  I've had opportunities in the past and have not capitalized.  Maybe this is just one of those fishing scenarios that I cannot master.

Sloooow strip...pause.  Sloooow strip...pause.  My wooly bugger prince nymph combo looked great in the water, now if only...WHAM!!

The weight of a cinder block welcomed my hookset as only seconds later a bright rainbow body and large green head breached the surface violently splashing from side to side.  Back under water now the big fish makes a run for deeper water before breaching the surface yet again, this time in spectacular fashion.  My heart is pounding, my mind racing.  "Just get it to hand," I thought to myself.  Almost as quickly as that thought entered my mind, the hard pull on the line was no longer and the rod became straight yet again.  "NOOOOO!" I yelled in agony as the big rainbow disappeared into the depths.  I sat on the bank to contemplate how close I had just come to accomplishing my goal before warming my frozen fingers in the truck.  Defeated yet again.  I've got to stay positive.  Tomorrow is another day.  What's the forecast for Pierre?  35 degrees, 90% chance of snow, and 20 mph winds? Perfect!

Here is a bit more of what I'm missing out on.

Big hen

Like a big football!!

Tying Tuesday Result: The Zebra Midge

This year's Tuesday Tyer sessions have been more of an opportunity for me to take in some fun stories and tell some of my own.  I would be lucky to tie two flies in the three hour session.  This past tuesday was different.  While stories were still prevalent, I hunkered down to get some flies tied.  Zebra midges and big streamers were on the menu.  Check out the tying video for the Zebra Midge below.  A quick and easy pattern that will produce throughout the year.

When I first started fly fishing, I couldn't believe some of the tiny patterns featured in fly shop bins.  "How the heck does thread catch fish?" I thought.  Well, when I finally had an opportunity to see these bugs in my seine net, I had a better understanding as to why these patterns work so well.  Next time you're fishing in spring or fall, or are in the middle of a midge hatch, do a quick seine to see the larva present.  You'll see why small and easy is the way to go.  Enjoy the video!

Rather Be Fishing: 2012 Highlights

Here is a short video highlighting a few of the fishing trips Lucy and I took in 2012.  We had a great time on the water together.  Hope to get out more in 2013 with Lillian also by my side.

Do's and Dont's: Get down deep

Deep seam bow caught on weighted san juan worm and split shot

I asked Tim what he was tying at last weeks Tuesdsay Tyers session.  "A bomb," he replied.  "I don't want to have to use split shots next time I'm trying to get down to those fish."  This heavily weighted fly consisted of a tungsten bead head, .20 lead wire and a "buggy" attire.  Whether you are using weighted flies, weighted line, or split shots, getting down to the fish is essential to catching them in deep water.

Tim was preparing flies for our upcoming trip to the Bighorn River in Montana.  The Bighorn is notorious for this requirement.  A spring trip in 2012 welcomed us with a midge hatch and rising fish.  Our best success, however, was found deep, with zebra midges and skinny nelson patterns.  Yeah, you could catch fish on soft hackle emerges and dries (certain times of the day produced very well), but your catch rate would be more consistent fishing deep.

But it meant fishing deep properly.  That meant a weighted fly and often multiple split shots were required to reach those fish with a realistic presentation.  That was your best shot for success.  This obviously depends on the season, water level, water clarity and food options available, and varying your presentation is key to finding the right amount of weight required.  Some casters will start big, getting down to the bottom as quick as possible and adjust from there.  Others with make their best guess as to how they will get close and add as necessary.  Either way, you'll be on the bottom, and that means you're going to lose flies.  You'll have to come to grips with it if you want to catch fish deep.  It's all part of the game, but you have to play to win.  You must be willing to give up a few of those flies that you worked so hard to tie up, or spent hard earned cash to purchase.  That's the only way you can beat deep water and gain the confidence to work the water properly.  You'll catch more fish and will be a more experienced fisherman because of it.  

Fly Tying Tuesday: DIY Rubber Legs

Various sizes and diameters inside as well

The insides of my old bungee cord

As a novice fly-tyer (and very frugal individual), I often struggle to justify spending $4.00 for a pack of rubber legs.  I know, it's not that bad.  But if you are purchasing a number of colors along with many other tying material required, that can be a pretty big expense as a newbie.  For that reason, I've been searching for ways to "cheat the system" while getting fly-tying materials for little or nothing.  That is why I was so pumped to stumble upon a great source for rubber legs while cleaning out the garage last weekend.  

I use bungee cords all of the time.  Whether I'm strapping down the boat cover, securing camping supplies on the trailer, or filling a tube-less tire, bungee cords are convenient, cheap and readily available.  The elastic material of a bungee cord is usually made of natural or synthetic rubber strands bound together by a fabric covering (we're not talking about the thick black cords here).  These strands are in large number, extensible (great stretch factor), durable and exist in varying diameters within a single bungee.

Extraction was relatively easy.  I was in my Spouse Approved Location (SAL) to remove the nylon cover.  This was a messy process with a knife.  I'd use an exacto next time around.  While I've yet to utilize these while tying, I can't wait to explore the possibilities.  I'll be dying them next week and using them in some articulated streamer patters I'm tying for the Bighorn River in April.  I'd be interested to hear if these have worked for you in the past, or if there are some other ways you've "cheated the fly-tying system" to create effective patters with unconventional materials.  My unconventional list of materials is growing all the time.  I'll post it when it gets large enough so we can all compare notes.  What is your favorite?

2012 Bighorn River Adventure

Each year the Tuesday Tyers in Pierre, SD take a trip to Fort Smith, MT to fish the Bighorn River.  Last year was my first time joining the crew.  Here is a short video from the trip.  I'm excited to go back!

Dog Days of Fishing

My dog Lucy facing off vs. carp

I don't mind fishing alone.  In fact, I often appreciate that time on the water.  I do, however, appreciate the company of one fishing partner more often than not.  My dog Lucy is the best dog in the world.  I've had her by my side on the water since the day we brought her home from Cedar Valley Pheasant Haven in Harrold, S.D.  Sure, she can't make every trip I take, but for the most part, I love to have her along and she loves to be there.

Just a few months old and she already loves to fish

My favorite thing about Lucy is her optimism.  She is in a constant state of anticipation while fishing.  She always seems to assume that the next cast is going to produce an opportunity for her to pounce, chase, lick and stalk.  I wish I always had her optimism as a fisherman.  As doubts enters my mind, I look to Lucy for reassurance that the "just one more cast" cliche may be used liberally but not taken literally.  Her obvious passion for the water and all of its inhabitants makes me wonder if she looks forward to our fishing trips as I do.

I really appreciate our time on the water together and vow to create more of it in years to come.  She turns five this year, and I can't tell you where the time has gone.  I want to make the most of the years we have left together, and give her as much joy as one fisherman can give back to his best fishing buddy.