Combining Styles For Success

For me one of the biggest reasons I am so passionate about, fascintated by and sometimes frustrated with fishing is that things are always changing and there is no right answer. Every day on the water is different and no matter what that day brings, somewhere someone is catching them. I've grown up fishing traditional freshwater bodies of water with spinning and baitcast gear targeting popular species including Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Pike, Walleye, Perch, Crappie, etc. I've spent my time learning how to use the same techniques and baits that I'm sure many of you have. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, topwaters, jerbaits, senkos, worms, craws, tubes, texas rigs, drop shotting, Carolina rigs, wacky worming…. And on and on and on. Over the past few summers I've been introduced to fly fishing, admittedly not by my own effort but more by chance. In my mind fly fishing has always brought thoughts of salmon and trout in rivers, creeks and streams. Afterall, that's the only place they work right? I haven't yet picked up a fly rod but I've seen how effective presenting a fly can be for the same species I've been chasing. The intricacies and creativity that can go into a fly pattern has really been impressive and I'm sure any angler will agree that catching a fish on your own creation brings an added level of satisfaction! I've watched dozens of smallmouth be fooled by a fly in open water and it really got me thinking. I don't spend enough time right now on the water to really get fully outfitted to fly fish, however, could I use some of the concepts of fly fishing and combine them with my traditional techniques to give the fish a different look? Absolutely. One of the easiest ways to combine the added appeal of a fly is feathered treble hooks. It's relatively common for some manufactures to add some feathers, however, adding the detail of a hand tied fly to match colours to the bait and action of a hand tied fly instantly brings the bait to a new level. I've also drop shotted some flies with success. I think it's a different look for a fish and they are born into eating insects, making it an easy decision for a fish to grab the snack. I think combining some of the fly tying patterns with soft plastics may bring some of my drop shot baits to another level. It's something I plan to play with this season. Rob Seaton has introduced me deeper into the world of fishing on a fly. He's tied some really great patterns and dressed some trebles for me for the upcoming season, thanks Rob “ those poor fish are in trouble this spring! One thing I've quickly learned is that the art of fly tying is a personal one and one of the more interesting things I've seen Rob do is incorporate the family pet into the process. The Seaton's have two young golden retrievers affectionately know as "The Beasties and some "Beastie fur has made it's way into some of the flies recently. The flies look great and is definitely a fun way to incorporate your family pets into the sport you love! Photos of the "Beastie Bug are in the gallery, they are the blonde fur with added feathers for colour and detail. If you are looking for more information or want to talk about having some dressed trebles done, some pet infused flies tied for either fishing or fun, or any other info email direct at [email protected] and I can connect you with Rob.