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Archive for February, 2007
The Chota STL+ seems to fit everyone. I have been working in outdoor shops for over twenty years and I cannot remember any one type of footwear that has been so universally liked. It has a rocker built into the sole so that it breaks in quickly, combine that with a large plastic heel cup for stability, add a quick lace system and you are ready to go. These shoes feature a screw in stud system for when things get slippery, and they let you back these screws out if you need to. We have been using them in the guide service for six years and some of the original pairs are still in service.
Rating: 
[5 of 5 Stars!]
Reviewer: Rocky Cox, Staff Member, Guide & Fly Fishing School Instructor.
Snow is Melting along the Gunpowder River
Published by February 20th, 2007 in fishing report. ClosedGunpowder State Park officials DO have clearing the parking lots along the Gunpowder River on their work schedule, although at this point the rain coming in this evening through tomorrow, coupled with warmer temps, should alleviate the parking woes experienced over the weekend. Today, the Masemore lot is in the best shape, while upper Falls Rd., lower Falls Rd., and York Rd. lots are the worst.
The stream gauge is at 75 CFs today, but it should be moving well into the high 100’s as the snow and ice melts and more spillover occurs. Water temps are still on the cool side at 38-40 today F and will be warming by the weekend as surface water from the reservoir displaces snowmelt along the banks. Stonefly nymphs are still worth a shot, especially in the shallow riffles. Try micro-nymphing with bead heads pheasant tails in the #18-22 range and plan on prospecting a bit before you find some willing fish. When you find them, they will be stacked up, so fish a little slower, until the water warms up a bit. I was out fly fishing Saturday and thanked my lucky Chota Stl+ boots for keeping me upright. Waiting for unbridled dry fly action? We should start to see some little black and early brown stonefly adults in the #14-16 range as the water temp reaches the mid to high 40’s, perhaps as soon as this weekend. -Thanks to Jason du Pont for another great Gunpowder River photograph.
In a follow up to my earlier post, Mike writes:
Theaux:
I have to agree with Bill about the large dogs. They can be real irksome. I think they scare horses, too. I know mountain bikers scare ‘em. Plus, I was speaking with a woman I know who lives near the river and rides there. I told her what was happening on this site - the talk about horse damage. She was very upset. Not about what is being said but about the possibility that “troubles are a-brewing.” She knows what damage a horse can do to a trail; she says she has been riding there for years and has probably contributed to some damage herself in the past but she says that she and her friends ride well back from the river FOR JUST THAT REASON! She was visibly upset about this issue because she wants to maintain the privilege of riding there and sure doesn’t want to get into any hassles with the fishing crowd. I think we have an ally there and I’m sure she’s spoken to her other riding friends, but, as we all know, a lot of people ride there. I thought it was at least nice to know that this person is concerned also, understands our point of view and will hopefully pass the word along to some others. Unfortunately, they are already riding well back from the river so it’s like preaching to the choir! She also noted that she has never heard of nor seen anybody clearing trails of blow-downs of cutting any trees to make way for horses, and promises to let me know if she does. I got a lot out of that conversation with her. I guess that’s how a lot of us get involved, though. We find that through mere conversation we’ve become accidental activists! This issue promises to become a hot topic, I’m thinking.
Tight Lines,
Mike Vach
The Scott A2 804/4 has quickly become a shop favorite. With a moderately fast action it is suitable to a wide range of casts in various conditions. It is a four piece rod which travels compactly. It has a matt black finish, a Trout Western grip, an anodized aluminum up locking reel seat with a woven carbon fiber spacer. The ultra slim ferrules give this rod a very light feel in the hand like a lot of pricey rods. An excellent performer for the money, a good rod for the beginner or more advanced caster. Try it you will like it.
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]
Reviewer:Rocky Cox, Staff Member, Guide and Fly Fishing School Instructor.
