To Share a Spot

The spot...

How does it feel to be a fly flinger?  Heck, sometimes it feels fantastic.  Wandering the shoreline of Lake Sharp with my pup Lucy catching carp, walleye, catfish, white bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, gar, drum...fuew!  Catching fish on the fly never gets old!

And when you're on...well, there is just no stopping' you.  Eventually people take notice of your catch rates.  Fly fishing is already intriguing to most in my neck of the woods.  Add mass quantities of hook sets, and you've got a spectacle on your hands folks.  In general, I would argue that a fly angler is more intriguing than a person sitting on the shoreline watching a bobber.  Just the other day I was catching white bass when a father yelled to his daughters at the neighboring beach,  "Go watch that gentleman fly fish!"  Soon, four little girls, seven or eight years old, had hurried over to see what I was catching.  I caught another immediately, and they were in awe.  "Cool dad!  He just caught another fish!  It was a white bass!"

I don't know about you, but it makes me feel good.  Yeah, you are getting kids excited about the outdoors, and fly fishing, but you almost feel like a celebrity.  People want to watch you, ask you for advice, take your photo.  And then, there are those who want to fish near you.

On that very evening, a father-son team had hustled over to the bank, bobber rigs and minnows ready for action.  I was fishing a point off the mouth of a small creek.  The white bass had begun patroling for the thousands of baitfish that were present.  Unfortunately for the father-son duo, there were fewer fish near their spot and they were much less active than the fish off the point.  Plus, dusk was upon us.  So there I was, landing fish, after fish, after fish and feeling really great until...I looked back toward the duo.  Bobbers resting motionless in the water.  Father and three year old son waiting patiently for a strike.  Emotions sprung up in me like a sudden thunderstorm.  A rush of selfishness suddenly filled my head.  My face, flush with embarrassment for not being considerate to the pair 15 minutes before.  And finally, concern/worry for the quickly falling sun.  The tug of a larger white bass snapped me out of my stupor.   Lucy helped me land the fish as I hurried into shore.

Me:  Excuse me... Please come fish in this spot.  This fish are stacked up out there.

Fishing Dad:  Are you sure?  You're having really good luck over there.

Me:  I've caught enough fish.  Hurry over before you run out of daylight.

Fishing Dad:  Well we really do appreciate it!

They moved over, set up shop, and threw out a few lines.  "We've been here three days, and haven't caught a fish yet," he told me.  Now I really felt like a tool.  My anxiety increased.  "I hope they catch some fish," I thought.  Not long after the first line went out, the bobber disappeared under the surface.  Fishing dad set the hook into a nice smallie before Jr was in for a fight.  The child's excitement was enough to make anyone smile.  Not long after the smallie was released, a white bass had grabbed the bait on the other rod.  This continued for the next 20 minutes and they were ecstatic!

 I believe that more people enjoying our natural resources will mean more working to conserve and preserve them in the future.  Have you shared a hot spot with strangers lately?  Would you if the opportunity presented itself?  Here is one fisherman who hopes you will.

He/She's got the Look!

New fashion statement?

What are your feelings on looks?  When I was growing up, I admired fly fishing enthusiasts.  Not only because it seemed like they had it all figured out, but because they looked the part.  They were the epitome of fishing to a non-enthusiast.  I thought that in order to be a fly fisherman, I had to look like a fly fisherman.  

This thought consumed me for some time.  I concerned myself with having the proper gear so at least I looked like I belonged, because I certainly didn't feel like I belonged early on.  This recently came to my mind when my buddy and I were standing near my truck after catching some spring carp.  We looked the part.  Waders, packs, nice gear, etc.  A car pulled up and asked if we were catching anything.  My friend and I, fully aware that they were not referring to carp, chuckled as we responded.  "A few," we said.  "Well, you sure look like professional fishermen," he replied as he put the vehicle into gear.  

Did that gentleman leave that day thinking we were professional fisherman?  Was he sold on our accomplishments and prowess as anglers simply because of how we were dressed?  While those questions might seem silly, consider it for a moment.  Who is going to be the most influential person in the meeting?  The one with the armani suit, or the person in business casual?  At first glance, are you going to ask for help on a construction project from an individual with a nice tool belt around their waist, or a guy/gal wearing an orange vest?  Perception is everything in this world.  People are prone to jumping to conclusions before all (or any) facts can be gathered.  

You can't argue with the results...

While this phenomenon may be good for business in the marketing world, it is NOT good for fly fishing.  I've stopped caring about my appearance long ago.  I don't care anymore if you think I look silly, because I'll be catching fish.  I might even be catching more fish than the person with all the new gear and fancy gadgets.  The fact of the matter is that I only need a fly rod and a box of flies to be successful on the water.  Everything else is a luxury or optional convenience.  Please, whether you are just getting into the sport, or a veteran of the game, DO NOT FALL INTO THE RHETORIC!  Trust your instincts and not what some poster boy for the sport tells you to use.  Dress comfortably (for your style and your wallet) without feeling the need to "fit in".  Like saying goes, "fish like nobody's watching".  You'll have more fun and you'll catch more fish.  Stay positive and don't worry about what others think of you.  They don't know jack!

Anyone looks good with a fish on!

Pride of the Prairie

Strutting his stuff...

While this is primarily a fishing blog, I like to talk a lot about conservation and things we can do to educate the public about our wildlife resources.  Recently, my girls and I reserved a blind on the Ft. Pierre National Grasslands.  When telling people about it, they seemed to have no idea this opportunity existed.  Whether their perceived interest was genuine or not, I feel it is necessary to provide some information about an opportunity to view the Pride of the South Dakota Prairie on its home booming grounds.  

The Ft. Pierre National Grasslands can be an eerie and unusual place, especially before sunrise.  Typically the excitement begins before exiting the vehicle.  The intensity of the sounds will reverberate from the vast expanses all around. Today was different.  

It was 4:45 a.m. (yeah, I know, that's early but stick with me here...)  The girls and I walked into the darkness with the sounds of the prairie coming to life.  "I'm scared daddy!" said Mya after we took our first few steps.  It is very daunting at first, especially for a little one, but we marched on. 

We entered the plywood blind relatively unnoticed.  If the birds had realized that we were in the area, they obviously didn’t care.  The wind rushed through the open windows as I quickly covered the girls in blankets.  With last year being Lillian's first experience, I was prepared to keep both little ones as comfortable as possible before the sun peaked over the grassland prairie on this 2015 outing.  We waited.  The anticipation that mounted for me was intense.  "Will the birds be here today?" I wondered to myself.  I was anxious for it to begin, despite the inability to see through the darkness.  We continued to wait while Mya fell asleep.  

Not long after first light (about 45 min after entering the blind), a familiar sound penetrated its walls.  "OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO... WOOP!  WOOP!"  Lillian perked up, "They're heaaaaarr!" she exclaimed in a whisper.  I was pumped.  

When the sun began to rise over the stretch of prairie to the east, the birds slowly came into focus.  The eight males were displaying their colors, and strutting their stuff while the one female wandered relatively uninterested.   An occasional confrontation between two males would result in acrobatics and scrapping to establish dominance.  A display that is too amazing not to experience in person.

face off - Courtesy South Dakota Tourism

Each year seems to bring new surprises as well.  In 2014, sharptails and chickens shared the Lek when a raptor swooped in and spoiled the party.   This year, another first for the girls and I.  One particular bird stole the show as he repeatedly jumped to the top of the blind to tapdance and strut.  "He's dancing on our heads!" Mya exclaimed after multiple routines.

I know I’ve done little to describe the beauty of this annual ritual, but no words I could write would do it justice.   This extraordinary bird is part of a delicate ecosystem in the prairie of South Dakota.  Each spring brings new opportunities to experience and view wildlife in all its splender.  I will continue to make this a ritual of mine for years and years to come.  And the girls are in as well.  

The Ft. Pierre National Grasslands encompases 116,000 acres and is located 15 miles south of Ft. Pierre, S.D.  The blinds are available from April through mid-May and  may be reserved through the forest service by calling the Ft. Pierre national Grassland, USDA Forest Service at 605-224-5517.

Hooked on wildlife

Super Secret...and Full of Bass

Extra large please...

I fished until the sun began to set on the horizon.  And then I fished some more.  I lost track of how many times I told Lucy, "last fish and we're going home girl."  So did she.  An impromptu trip to a long-neglected favorite fishing hole had turned into an evening of crashing, thrashing excitement, and quite the workout for my right arm.

A dreary and rainy Thursday had me second-guessing my perceived need for adventure.  After a quick dinner I found myself contemplating my fishing options and whether going out after that rain would even be worth it.  Lucy stared in disbelief.  She could actually tell that I was considering an alternative use of a rare free evening.  Eventually, her stare, and my conscious, got the best of me.  We ran out the door.

I entered the pasture around 7:00 p.m.  The rain-soaked tire tracks offered a makeshift slip-n-slide over the ruts and prairie dog holes.  With my white truck sufficiently covered in prairie mud, I pulled up to the gate.  The quiet calm of the grasslands was interrupted only briefly by the barking of nearby prairie dogs.  Their skittish behavior suggested target practice occurred earlier that day.  Lucky for them that was not my intention.  We entered the field.

Lucy and I marched through the grass like a prairie bird hunting pair.  Lucy's nose to the ground, my stride filled with excitement.  The cool rainwater jumped from the grass and beaded off of my White Sierra pants as I bounded toward our destination.  The prairie dramatically morphed into a bowl ahead of me.  The mirror-like pool shined in the sun below.  Now... would there be fish?

I stripped out 20 ft of fly line before tying on my favorite spring bass pattern.  The mud surrounding the dam responded to my boot like quicksand to a weary wanderer.  I was in up to my ankle.  The joys of stockdam fishing after a spring rain.  I cast my cactus chenille crawler toward the middle of the dam.  If I could have one gripe about fishing stock ponds on the grasslands, it is the fact that anticipation is short lived.  After two strips the fly line goes tight.  A green head explodes from the water like lightning from a thunderhead.  Again, the fish leaps through the air without effort and fights for deeper water.  One cast and one fish to hand.  I admire the largemouth before sending her back to the "super secret" spot.  Maybe next time I'll take a few home for the frying pan.

As I grow as a fisherman, I've come to appreciate the settings in which I experience life.  Shortly after that first fish, a pack of coyotes howled over the ridge.  Roosters began to cackle  as they settled in to evening roosting spots.  Like fighter pilots, Pintails and teals conducted flyovers of my fishing hole.  All while the iconic sounds of the meadowlark echoed through the open air.  This setting made me wonder why it had been so long since I've taken the time to enjoy this special place.  Priorities had changed, not only in my family life, but in my fishing life as well.

After a few hours of catching, it was time to go.  My boots now matched my pickup, and my muddy dog.  Trudging back as the sun set in the distance brought back great memories of past stock dam conquests and rainy day quagmires.  You can't get that feeling form a tv show, or magazine article.  Only by being in the moment.  It is a feeling I hope to experience again very soon.  Maybe tomorrow...

Admiring Super Secret

What I learned from teaching kids to tie...

Great kids make the event much easier to host!

Last spring the Tuesday Tyers held our inaugural Come Tie with Us, kids tying clinic here in Pierre.  We had a goal of 10 kids, 8 participated.  Not bad for a first year.  Each child had a mentor tyer to help them through the process.  Many parents stayed to participate as well.  At the end of the two hour tying session each child had three flies they tied all on their own, a new fly rod, and a look in their eye that screamed out, "I'm ready to catch some fish!"

Overall it was a very rewarding event, not just because we had some great kids there, but because we all gained so much from the experience.

For me, it was a change of mentality that I never thought would develop.  One of a selfish fisherman constantly seeking his new adventure, to a guy who wants to see our resources around for a long time.  I have caught a lot of fish on a fly rod.  Way more than I can begin to brag about.  Full disclosure, the number of fish that I've caught pale in comparison (both in quantity and size) to thousands of other fly throwers around this world.  And that's ok.  I'm very content with my status as a fly caster.  While I will continue to seek improvement, I've come to realize just how important youth are (and will be) to this pastime.  Teaching the next generation will not only be my way of brightening the future of this sport, but will make it much easier for these young children to do the same someday.  I don't want it to be as difficult for them to get started as it was for me.

That's why we're doing it again this year.  Modern Woodman of America is helping us purchase fly tying kits for each participant.  Dakota Angler and Outfitter will likely throw in some additional prizes.  Mark your calendars now for June 13th from 9 - 1.  If you'd like to volunteer your time and skills, please let me know.  If you'd like to join us for casting practice, that is fine too!  The more the merrier.  If the weather is nice, we'll even go try for some carp after casting practice.  It's going to be a great day in Pierre.  Contact me for more details.

Buddy Seiner (AKA Fishing Buddy)

605-222-9706

bseiner@gmail.com

Doing Our Part

sdleastwanted.com

I am really afraid of invasive species.  While they are all bad, there are none worse than the Asian Carp, and I say that only because I have seen them in action.  The James River has long been (and can still be at times) a trophy fishery.  The last trip I made to the Jim was last year, and the Asian carp were there in numbers.  This scares the shit out of me!  

The scariest thing is that an effort to prevent the spread of invasive species is not for a small contingent of passionate people.  EVERYONE must buy into the idea that they can transport invasive species to their favorite waters.  I don't know what would happen if Asian Carp eventually made it into SD's great lakes, and I don't want to know.  Please, do your part to prevent the spread.  Visit SD GFP's new website to learn about current rules and regs and the species they have been put in place to shut out.   We must hold each other accountable, and be diligent in our efforts.  Together, we can stop the spread of these invasive species.   

http://sdleastwanted.com

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!