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...

White Bass Bonanza

I love talking to other anglers about their fishing experiences, fly fishing or otherwise.  Lately, I've happened across of number of folks who had a disappointing year in 2014 fishing for white bass.  You see, in Pierre, SD, we have a very special resource in our white bass population.  During the spring spawn and throughout the summer, they can be found in large numbers throughout the Missouri River system.  These fish are usually fat and sassy and very willing to take a variety of patterns.  And when you do it right, they rival walleye as table fare.

I can hardly recall an occasions where the white bass fishing has been less than stellar.  2014 was no exception.  I have expressed my surprise when the conversation briefly goes to white bass and thoughts or fears about low numbers.  While the numbers are not all time highs, they were still pretty great last year.  The fish did seem to be more particular in the patterns they favored, but were still very willing to take when presented with the right fly.  I remember one day in particular when I stood next to another angler at my favorite white bass spot hooking fish after fish.  His pattern offered the same color scheme as mine, however, was different in size and weight.  He did not hook a fish.  I offered one of the "working" flies, but he was content.  Awkward turtle moment...

Here is a short video featuring a few of the fish caught in 2014.  Early season fish were some toads!  Here's hoping for a 2015 run that rivals it.  Enjoy.



Whitey Ford Fourteen from Buddy Seiner on Vimeo.

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.

Fishing with Bitterness

Burt with a hefty and battle tested Oahe Bow

My name is Buddy Seiner, and I'm an elitist.

The first step in the recovery process from being an elitist (AKA - Head up your ass syndrome) is by admitting there is a problem.  I found out today, that I have one.

It was 65 degrees in Pierre today.  After enjoying most of the day, and doing a few projects, I decided to head to the marina to chase rainbows (if the pike would let me).  Fellow fly enthusiast and Golden Bone pro staff member, Jason Burt, agreed to join.  While many trips were taken throughout the winter months, only northern and musky have come to hand for me in 2015.  We were optimistic that today would be a good day for rainbows.

The day was made when I stepped into the water.  Bald eagles were calling from their cottonwood perches, Canada geese flew in perfect fighter jet formations overhead, while fat black midges clumsily glided through my personal space over, and over again.  I could have very well stood in the water without a rod and still enjoyed that moment in time.  It was beautiful.  And it was about to get better...

"FISH ON!!"

Burt's first Bow in Oahe Marina

I heard Burt yell from across the marina.  My first thought, "Please don't be a northern, please don't be a northern".  *SPLASH* A green back erupted from the water, thrashing as a big rainbow does when hooked in the top lip.  I started into long, wader-laden strides, toward the fight.  This was a special moment for Burt...His first Oahe marina rainbow.  A few photos were followed by accolades and excitement.  Burt experienced all the symptoms that came along with my first, and most recent, marina rainbow.  Excessive excitement, shaking, huge, shit-eating grin, more shaking, and anticipation!  It was fun to be a part of it.  Not long after, Burt hooked into another football shaped fish, and we started the process all over again.  **FIST BUMP**

Now, it wasn't long after that second fish that my problem reared it's ugly head.  Somewhere in between fish 1 and fish 2 some anglers staked a claim on the opposite shore where the ice had cleared.  "That's a great spot," I told Burt.  I've fished alongside bait guys many times in that marina, and it usually ends in them asking me what I'm using to catch fish.  I know anglers experience great success when using live bait for these big rainbows.  We all know that Rainbow doesn't want to be fed, Rainbow wants to hunt.  Still, I had never personally witnessed live bait anglers land a toad rainbow (technical term) in the marina...  Until today.

After Burt released his second fish, I waddled over to my spot to proceed with what I call fly-casting. Soon, I noticed one of the guys hauling in a big, fat rainbow.  My heart sank.  "No!" I thought as they tossed it on the ice heave.  Then the other guy landed one.  Bitterness entered my heart.

How, on a day like today, could I be bitter about anything?  I commented to Burt, "For some reason, that really bums me out."

Burt reminded me that if it were a walleye or a catfish, we wouldn't give it a second thought.  He's right.  And I completely understood.  So why did it not remove the bitterness?  Why was I still upset that those anglers on the opposite shoreline had bucketed two beautiful rainbows?  Am I becoming an elitist of catch and release?  Was I becoming a, *GULP*, fly fishing SNOB??

Step two in the recovery process is proper reflection.  After having some time to reflect, I feel I've determined the root of my elitist evening mentality:

1 -  There are very few places in South Dakota where this experience can be had.  These big fish don't come along every day.  Yes, we are catching rainbows, a very prominent resource in our state, but they are catching fish that have already beat the odds.  These fish that have come from an unnatural hatchery setting, been thrown to the wolves of the wild, and survived.  And then they stumble across a hapless minnow twitching on the end of a crappie rig.  Well...  Rainbows are placed in the South Dakota great lakes because they would not be there otherwise.  They are placed here for the enjoyment of anglers (both in fight and table-fare).  Their size has nothing to do with the reason they are there.

2 -  It shouldn't be that easy.  For some reason, the idea of these guys tossing out some bait and hauling in what holds on made the work that I put in to catching fish seem less meaningful.  This is complete bull-shit as you can already tell, but I'll write more about why to make myself feel better.  I have caught more fish via fly than I could have imagined.  Essentially, I'm creating a very realistic food source imitation and presenting it in a very appetizing way.  Who is cheating here?  I was intrigued by fly-fishing because of the challenge it offers.  Yes, there are still challenges that exist, but I can more easily overcome them with the fly.  I almost always have the advantage.

3 -  This resource might not be around forever.  We need to preserve it so future residents (mainly myself in the future) can catch bigger fish.  This is so selfish!  Again, Jason was my voice of reason here.  This resource was put here for all anglers to enjoy.  If some want to enjoy it on the dinner table, why shouldn't they do that?  It's like my brain abandoned every bit of skilled dialog training and fishing zen I've received and was switched to negative scenario auto pilot.  What if they discontinue the stocking program and they completely wipe out the rainbow fishery?  What if they chop up that fish and leave it in the freezer for 3 years?  Bladdy, bladdy, blah.

January Marina Musky

4 -  I wasn't catching anything.  For the first time this year, I had zero takes.  Not even my good pals the northerns were showing my fly any love.  I am supposed to be out-fishing the bait anglers, right?  This is a competition, right?  This is proving my worth as an angler, right?  Wow...so wrong.  I've said many times that I could die any day completely content with the number of fish (and their size) that I've  caught over the years.  I should have been pumped, not only for Jason, but that two other anglers got a chance to experience the rush of a rainbow.  It's a great feeling.  

The last step in my recovery process is acceptance.  Yes, I had a weak moment.  It happens, and might happen again.  I know I'm not an elitist.  My progression as an angler is my own, and not that of any other.  I love fishing, and will always share a common bond with anglers of all specializations.  I'll be out on the water again tomorrow.  If live bait should win the day, maybe I'll wander over to their side of the marina...to ask them what they're using.  

Go Barbless or Go Home

When I started fly fishing, I hadn't considered fishing barbless hooks.  In fact, I wouldn't have considered it out of fear of losing fish.  I thought hooks had barbs for a reason, and that reason was to keep fish on the hook.  I worried that removing the barb would cause me to loose that "fish of a lifetime".  It wasn't until a few years ago that I began to realize the great value in utilizing barbless hooks.  That "turning point" in my mentality was mostly due to my continued education on handling fish.  It is well documented that fish mortality is still an issue, even as catch and release fisherman handle their catch with great care.  Death, for trout especially, can come fairly easy when stressed or injured.  It depends greatly on a number of factors:

• Fight time
• Injuries sustained to fish during fight/landing process
• Handling of fish while on land (excessive touching, flopping on shore/against rocks, etc)
• Time spent out of water (remember, fish have gills, not lungs and lack the ability to store oxygen.  10 seconds is all it takes for significant damage to occur)
• Water/atmosphere temperature/Oxygen content of water (will both be factors during the fight and recovery process)
• Other situation dependent factors

As you can see, fish have a lot going against them.  Not only did crimping the barb on all my hooks make fishing more convenient, but it proved to be a timesaver on the water and gave me a bit more piece of mind knowing I've done all I can to release the catch as unharmed as possible.  And it will make you a better fisherman, more adept at fighting and landing fish without the safety net of a barb.

Because I tie all of my own flies, it's easy to prepare each hook properly.  I crimp the barb on each hook with a set of pliers before I begin tying.  If you purchase flies, it's a bit harder to stay on top of it.  Take note before tying one on.  If catch and release is your thing, go barbless for a more fruitful fishing experience.

TOP LIP Productions

I've been daydreaming of catching carp lately.  It was almost 60 degrees yesterday and I almost drove out to Lake X to see if I could hammer one in December.  Fortunately, I stuck around the house and played with the girls.  I have a lot of fishing footage from this year, so it's finally time that I sit down and showcase some of it.  Threw this together last night.  Enjoy.



Top Lip from Buddy Seiner on Vimeo.

Shivering Observations

I arrive to the spot where I've parked many times before.  The dock had been removed with the arrival of cold weather and rested on the deserted marina shoreline.  A dozen redhead ducks began to paddle away while honkers called out from the far shore.  Pheasants and squirrels searched through the grasses on the north side while bald eagles observed from the many tall cottonwoods that envelope the winter fishing hole.  This is the spot.

The 25 degree temps and northeast wind had deterred all but the bird watchers who occasionally cruised the area for a view of the winter eagles.  Lucy and I had the fishing to ourselves. The cold weather brings grumbles from those still in town.  "This is January weather," they say. "It's too cold to be fishing," they gripe.  Not everyone complains about the cold temps.  Ice fishers ready their augers and ice rods for an equal chance at putting some meaty fish in the freezer.  I welcome the cold temps with open arms because,  in Pierre, it means the beginning of winter fly fishing.

Rainbow trout are released in the marina each spring.  For a few weeks, hatchery trout are taken by fishing enthusiast, fish, bird and mink.  The few that survive their short time in Oahe marina join the Missouri River ecosystem, and begin to grow.  Each winter, they find their way back to the marina, and stay until temps increase again in the spring.  Ice will often prevent any fishing during the late winter months, so early on is my chance to get a shot at these rainbows who have gotten fat off of Missouri River smelt, shad, crayfish, and aquatic insects.  They are big!

Spring ice out is when most fly anglers will seek out these nomadic bows.  Catch rates will be higher, and temps more tolerable.  Winter is for the extreme.  For those who are content with the possibility of not catching a fish.  Or...for the dedicated anglers who are able to brave the conditions long enough to land a monster bow.  As I stood in the frigid water a bald eagle glided slowly overhead.  It's difficult to stay focused when so much is going on around you.  I lackadaisically presented my kreelex to the depths as a vehicle approached.  They parked on the opposite shoreline and began to ready their equipment... they were fly anglers.  They had a pop-up camper, so I assumed they were visitors who were obviously aware of the opportunity that existed here.  The two began to cast, large nymphs if I had to guess.  It wasn't long after they arrived that I hooked into a nice rainbow.  The fight was intense and powerful.  Her first run took every bit of stripped line before she crashed to the surface in an attempt to throw the embedded kreelex.  Shaped like an american football and all the colors of a wild rainbow.  The aggressive take, fight, and release all made managing the cold a treat.

Not long after the two visitors arrived (20 minutes or so) they decided to depart.  They had taken a break a bit before, so the cold was apparently taking its toll.  A bit later a pickup had arrived.  A man wandered down to waters edge with a spinning reel, made a half dozen casts or so, and called it a day.  I had been fishing for about 2 hours, landed one and lost two others (which sometimes happens).  This prompted me to consider the necessary adjustments for winter fishing in the marina.

Yes, proper gear is essential.  The most significant upgrade a winter fishing enthusiast can make, in my opinion, is to switch to a neoprene style glove.  My love for Glacier Gloves is no secret.  They make a difference for me and allow me to spend much more time on the water than I would be able to otherwise.   Outside of the other obvious essentials, the biggest need for winter fishing enthusiasts pursuing rainbows in the marina is to dedicate the time.  There have been days when I will catch a fish on the first cast.  There have also been days when I've spent an hour on the water before feeling the tug of a hungry rainbow.  Either way, I dedicate at least an hour each time I make the trip, and am prepared for the winter conditions that exist.  Do that, and you too may catch fish like this on you next outing.  They're in there!  

Fly Fishing in South Dakota: Where to begin

Oahe Smallie

When I look at the fly fishing game today, it's no wonder it took me so long to finally invest my time and energy into learning the sport.  Rods, reels, lines, leaders, tippet, tools, flies, snobbery...the list goes on and on.  The thing that I was most afraid of as a child was not being accepted in the "fly fishing community".  My perception was this elite group of people who knew they were better than you and weren't afraid to admit it.  The reality:  couldn't be more opposite.  Are there pompous assholes out on the water?  Yup.  But they are few and far between.  Most fly fisherman that I rub elbows with are down-to-earth, conservation minded nature lovers who just want to get better at catching fish. At the end of the day, fly fishing required confidence.  You must understand that all situations are different, and there is always someone better out on the water.  If you are willing and able to learn from every situation, and open minded to other fishing techniques/ideals, you will have an easier time putting yourself out on the water for others to witness.  Trust me, you'll love it when people start asking you for advice.  First, you need to start fishing.

After I finally got over my ego, I had no idea what gear to use or how to use it. 

Gear you'll need to get started: Your first and last stop to acquire the goods should be Dakota Angler & Outfitter in Rapid City.  They will have everything you need, and will even point you in the direction of some hungry trout.  The first time I fished within Rapid City city limits, Dave Gamitt drew me a map and put me on a lot of browns.  Don't worry, they won't scoff at you for being new to the sport.  They will welcome you with open arms!  Here is the gear you should ask for.  If you don't want to do it in person, order it online.

Walleye bends the Echo 8 wt (Glory-a)

Rod and Reel:  I started with a hand-me-down fly rod and reel that I still use today.  My second rod was a gift from my wife (who doesn't fly fish) and I still use it today as well.  One of my favorite rods and most used rods in the black hills is a little box store rod that you can get for $40, along with a $30 reel.  Last year I finally had the chance to purchase my first brand new fly rod and real combo.  Since I enjoy throwing large streamers and sinking lines, I opted for a larger rod.  A fast action Echo Ion 8 wt was just want I needed matched with a Lamson Guru reel.  I spent about $450 on the whole outfit.  I guess what I'm saying is that you should purchase a rod and reel that work well for your particular fishing situation.  You don't need to spend an arm and a leg to get it.  Here are a few combos I would recommend for getting started.  If you love it and want to do more, then talk to the fly shop about your options.

#1 - Redington Crosswater/Path/Topo:  Redington combos will give you the versatility to fish trout in Rapid Creek and Carp in your local honey hole.  Get the 8 wt faster action rod to chuck and duck with 12" hang-time musky flies.

• Dakota Angler makes it even easier by putting a complete Redington combo together including the Crosswater, Redington waders and wading boots for $350.  A great deal! 

#2 - Cabelas Prestige or Three Forks Combos:  I have prestige combo and it's caught more fish for me int he hills that I could ever imagine.  Great rod and reel for the price.

#3 - Echo Solo and Ion combo.  Ask the fly shop about this combo.  It's under $200 and will give you a great starter set.

Fly Line:  A good fly line will make a big difference in your fishing experience.  I began with an old fly line and struggled to cast and catch fish.  Once I cleaned it and eventually got a new line, casting became much easier.  Don't fall for gimmicks, species specific line options.  It's my belief that they do that to sell more lines with very little variation.  To begin, get a WF (weight forward) floating line that matches the weight of your rod.  You may need to get a heavier line for faster action rods.  Some lines, like the Rio Grand, are designed for fast action rods and come a bit heavier than normal floating lines.  Stick with Rio, Scientific Anglers, or Cortland lines to reduce headaches when starting out.  Casting doesn't have to be perfect to catch fish, but it will make for a much easier time learning with quality line.

Leaders and tippets:  As a beginner, don't get caught up in leaders and tippets.  For trout get some Rio or Scientific Anglers tapered leaders in sizes 4x, 5x, and 6x.  The larger the number with tippet and leaders (like with hooks, the smaller the line diameter.  For all other fish, I tie on 20 lb mono to my fly line and attach a 8-12 ft piece of fluorocarbon by blood knot.  Simple, easy, and very effective.

Knots to know:  The only knots I use to attache my fly to tippet/line are the improved clinch knot (I tie mine with 4 twists) and non-slip loop knot.  I use blood or double surgeons knots to attach two lines and a simple double overhand loop knot to connect my homemade leaders to my fly line.  The perfection loop knot is fun to tie, but not as strong.  

Waders and Wading boots:  This is a tough one, because I will rarely use waders if it's not really cold outside.  I would recommend getting a bargain set of waders online or ask the fly shop if they have any used items for sale.  I started with an $89 set of waders that I still use today.  To me, they aren't that important.  Others will say otherwise.  It's up for you to decide.  Boots are a different story.  A good boot can make a big difference in your wading experience.  You won't find a great boot for under $100 (unless it is on sale), so don't be afraid to go with Simms, Redington, Korkers, or Chota on your first set and make sure they're not felt bottomed.  That is not allowed in SD.

Flies:  The flies you'll be using will depend greatly on the species you are pursuing.  So many people automatically connect fly fishing to trout and vise versa.  I'm trying to break that automatic connection.  Below are my top ten flies and the species they'll catch. You can catch all of these fish with the WF floating line that comes on the starting combo.

• Clouser Minnow/Kreelex:  Pretty much anything that swims will eat this fly.  Always have some sparsely tied in your box.  My favorite colors are chartreuse/white, and blue/white/red. For the kreelex, chartreuse/silver, gold/silver  
• San Juan Worm:  Pink and Red, Orange and red, or solid red.  Invert the hook with dumbbell eyes for carp and cats (red).  
• Hot Spot Pheasant Tail:  A bright orange hot spot in place of the peacock herl of a PT has worked wonders for me.  Pink also works well.  
• Hare's Ear:  Amazing all year round.  
• Wooly Bugger:  Touted as the most versatile fly ever tied.  It's also one of the easiest to tie if you're into that.  Will catch anything that swims.  
• Murdich Minnow:  This is in my box because of where I live.  If you don't have easy access to bass and northerns it might not be in yours.  If you hope to pursue bass and northerns, it needs to be.
• Adams:  I'm not a big dry fly fisherman, but an adams imitates a number of South Dakota's adult mayflies very well. 
• Soft Hackels:  A versatile fly that works well all year round for various species.  
• Elk Hair Caddis:  There are few things as fun as skating a caddis across Spearfish Creek.  The takes are frequent and exciting.  A great fly from late spring to fall.  
• Midges (all stages of life cycle):  I'm cheating a bit here by calling this one pattern, but they are vital for catching trout throughout the year.  Midges are actively hatching throughout the year, so they are always an option for hungry trout.  Larva, pupae, stuck in the shuck and dry patters should all hold a place in your box.  My favorites include zebra midge, skinny nelson, palomino midges, smoke jumpers and griffiths gnats.  

	Trout	Walleye	Bass (smallmouth, largemouth, white)	Northern Pike	Catfish	Carp	Crappie	Perch
Clouser	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
San Juan Worm	X		X		X	X
Pheasant Tail	X		X			X	X
Hare’s Ear	X					X
Wooly Bugger	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Murdich Minnow	X	X	X	X
Adams	X					X	X
Soft Hackels (of any kind)	X		X			X	X	X
Articulated Streamers	X	X	X	X
Midge life cycle	X						X

Where to go:  Any body of water that holds fish.  You'll learn the catching part as you go.  If you come to Pierre, let me know.  

This is a lot of information, but don't let it deter you from getting started.  Once you get the basics, and are able to get out on the water, things will begin to fall into place.  Hire one of the guys over at Dakota Angler to expedite the learning process.  You miss 100% of the shots you don't take, so get out there and make some casts!  

Mom! I caught an Eagle!

Here is a cool video of a fisherman with a close encounter with a bald eagle.  I've had terns make an attempt at times, and northers under the surface, but never anything like this!  Enjoy...

It's time for a Trout Stamp

Minnesota Trout and Salmon Stamp - 1982

In 1977, Wisconsin offered outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to financially support the development and restoration of sustainable trout habitat through the purchase of a trout stamp.  In 1982, Minnesota followed suit with a similar program that is still in operation today.  In fact, 24 out of the 50 states have an available stamp for residents and nonresidents to purchase (in many states it's mandatory) that will support trout stocking and habitat efforts.  Those states and the costs of their respective stamps are listed below.  The resident price is first followed by the nonresident price for each.

Alaska (King Salmon Stamp) - $10

Arkansas - $5/$12

Colorado (Habitat Stamp) - $10

Delaware - $4.20/$6.20

Georgia - $5/$20

Illinois - $6.50

Indiana - $11

Iowa - $12.50/$15

Kansas - $12.50

Kentucky - $10

Maryland - $5/$10

Minnesota - $10

Missouri - $7

Montana (conservation license) - $10

Nevada - $10

New Jersey - $10.50/$20

North Carolina - $13

Pennsylvania - $9.70

Rhode Island - $5.50

Tennessee - $18

Texas (Freshwater Stamp) - $5

Virginia (also lifetime stamp option based on age) - $23

West Virginia - $10/$16

Wisconsin - $10

First of all, congrats to all of these states for taking measures to ensure funding exists for essential habitat projects.  I've had many conversations about stream restoration, habitat development and conservation education projects, and the number one reason for few of them making progress is lack of funding.  Many of the states above are solely using their funds for sustaining a fishable population of trout in an area where they would otherwise not exist.  That's not necessary in South Dakota.

I'm not going to be a homer and pretend our trout fishery is the best in the country, because it's not.  Do we have a sustainable trout population?  Yes we do.  Do we have opportunities to catch trophy trout?  Oh ya!  Do we stock specific waterways to ensure catch rates continue to be high?  We do that too.  We have a little bit of everything in South Dakota, but why not make everything better?  We have boots on the ground and great people passionate about making a difference.  If we only had the money (and a prioritized list of projects that would strengthen our fisheries system and create an overall better ecosystem for fish and fishing enthusiast).  Let's start with a trout stamp.

Through July of this year, GFP had reported selling 115,375 resident and nonresident fishing licenses.  That doesn't even include the 43,176 adult and senior combination licenses sold.  So I'll punch 160,000 into the calculator to make it easy.  In order for this to gain any traction, a mandatory stamp must be offered to license holders who indicate an intention to pursue trout during the license validation period.  For them, a $5 stamp (or $10) will be required to fish.  Without researching the proper data, I'll guess 25% will pursue, or plan to pursue, trout with their license.  That would be 40,000 outdoor enthusiasts chipping in an extra $5 ($200,000 for you playing at home) each year for habitat conservation, restoration and stocking programs.  It's not a lot, but it's a start.  And these are funds that would not have made an impact otherwise.  So, SDGFP, South Dakota Legislative officials, fishing enthusiasts;  what say you?  Can we get this done for South Dakota?  I believe we can.

Why not Gary Creek?

Late September offered a rare chance to visit Deuel County in northeast South Dakota.  This county is home to Gary Creek, said to be the only home to naturally reproducing trout in eastern South Dakota.  While I've been to Gary, SD many times, I've only ever fished Lake Elsie, located in town next to Buffalo Ridge Resort.  This is stocked annually and holds some decent rainbows.  This year, I was determined to explore more of the creek to see if, in fact, it holds fish.

Gary Creek winds its way through Deuel County farmland until eventually reaching a portion of town designated as Game Production Area by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.  This allows access to hunters and fishers alike.  I walked through prairie grasses along a fence line my decent into the densely populated forest was immanent.  Like at an art gallery, I stopped to take in the beauty of this particular area before following the rough trail down to the clear creek below.  That sound is intoxicating. The trickles and gurgles of the creek as it winds through thick brush and trees.  This place has potential.

Under the canopy of overhanging trees, the creek runs cold and clear.  Other vegetation surrounding the creek make for difficult fly casting.  I press upstream, casting (slingshotting) my soft-hackel hares ear into pool after pool.  Only the occasional curious creek chub would be brought to hand which brought back fond memories of catching chubs in Rapid Creek while my brother and I were kids. Not one trout bolted from the bank, sought refuge under brush as I moved upstream.  Only the chubs darted here and there.

While Gary Creek has many of the components necessary for a sustainable trout population, I can see why they no longer call this place home.  But why not Gary Creek?  Habitat restoration efforts are going on all over the country to create and improve sustainable populations of while trout.  Gary Creek could be one of those projects.  A lot needs to be done, and that means dollars will need to be spent.  We have a difficult time finding funds for projects on our already productive streams of the Black Hills let along a current dead zone in eastern South Dakota.  Partnerships between GFP, South Dakota Trout Unlimited membership and the Black Hills Flyfishers will be required to move forward with actually work getting done.  Funds could come from fishing enthusiasts around South Dakota with the opportunity for them to purchase a trout stamp.  However we raise money, the time is now to start on projects that will make South Dakota a better place.  Let's get something done South Dakota!  Why not start with Gary Creek?

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!