FFE Magazine 2023

Ready for

Editorial

We’re happy to present you with the 2023-edition of Flyfish Europe Magazine. In these alienating digital times, we hope you’ll enjoy the feel of good-old, analog print-on-paper content.

This year’s edition contains an array of great fly fishing and fly tying articles along with select news from the many brands that we’re proud to represent in Europe.

We’re particularly proud to present new brands; Bajío Sunglasses out of the US, along with New Zealand-based Primal fly rods and FlyLab fly reels. With the two latter brands, we’re reaching out to those who are in the market for budget-priced fly fishing kit without compromising on feel or functionality.

Enjoy the magazine, get inspired, and have a great season! Hopefully, we’ll see you out there...

Water

Purpose built for advantage on the water. Sunglasses as performance gear for the ocean, river, and flats. We develop eyewear that solves the specific sets of needs for life on the water - with fly fishermen specifically in mind.

Credits

A massive “thank you” goes out to all the content contributors // Matt Harris, Rasmus Ovesen, Omar Gade, Morten Valeur, John Frazier, Keith Rose Innes, Brett Zundel, Dominic Bruno, Martin Ejler Olsen, Colton Jacob, Darcy Bacha, Katie Falkenberg, Peter Lyngby, Paul Monaghan, André Pedersen, and Tommy Josefsen

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The Midas Touch HOW TO TACKLE INDO-PACIFIC PERMIT

THE INDO-PACIFIC PERMIT, (Trachinotus blochii), belongs to a highly recognized and revered order of fish in the pompano family. But, for the longest time, it has stood unjustly in the shadow of its cousin; the Atlantic permit (Trachinotus falcatus), which – to many saltwater fly fishermen – is the only permit species out there. The latter couldn’t be further from the truth, however.

In total there are four different species of permit on the flats; Trachinotus anak, Trachinotus blochii, Trachinotus africanus and Trachinotus falcatus. These species are widely dispersed from the Western Pacific Ocean including but not limited to the Coral-, Tasman-, and Phillipine Seas across the Indian Ocean and the Arabian- and Red Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

The Atlantic permit, certainly, is the biggest of the four subspecies with recorded weights in excess of 80lbs (36kilos), but other than that there is very little to suggest that it deserves more attention than its cousins.

All three remaining sub-species are found on shallow flats, and while they certainly display different physiological characteristics, micro-habitat preferences and feeding habits, they all carry that certain genetic coding that makes them a trying and, oftentimes, frustrating challenge to catch on a fly rod. They’re highly sensitive, cautious, clever and finicky. Furthermore, they have keen eyesight and a highly developed proclivity for rejecting flies.

Perhaps, the most difficult of them to catch is the indopacific permit (“the golden pompano”), which is also – without much required debate, the most beautiful of the lot. It boasts pearlescent flanks surrounded by glowing coronal auras. Pure liquid gold emanates from its fins, and gleaming specks of gold dust radiate from its big, soulful eyes. It’s a thing of seditious beauty to behold, and it’s the prime flats trophy of the Indo-Pacific Ocean – a veritable gold trophy!

South African globetrotter, fly fishing guide, and director of Alphonse Fishing Co, Keith Rose-Innes, has a long-lived history of fly fishing for Indo-Pacific permit. He was among the first people to successfully target the fish with fly rods, and he has never looked back.

Keith now resides in the Seychelles, which is widely recognized as the epicenter for those similarly obsessed with Indo-pacific permit and - having guided for these fish for ages, he is probably the foremost capacity on fly fishing for IndoPacific permit out there.

Among fly fishermen with salt in their veins, permit have historically been considered the ultimate flats trophy. But permit aren’t just permit. In fact, there are four different species of permit dispersed across the sub-equator oceanic realm – and while all of them are elusive and challenging to catch, one of them requires a particularly golden touch to be brought to hand.

You were among the people who initially cracked the code when it comes to targeting indo-pacific permit. What attracted you to this particular fish in the first place?

Keith: “I don’t think you can understand the feeling that drives you to fish for permit until you are standing there making the cast. The experience insites the “little boy” in you. . I think that when a species is so difficult to catch it becomes an automatic attraction.

I wouldn’t say we ever “initially cracked the code” as we caught them through spending painstaking hours targeting them with a variety of the earlier patterns. The cracking definitely came with the Alphlexo Crab fly pattern as it has revolutionised the game of confidence when fishing for Indo’s anywhere in the world”.

What makes fly fishing for indo-pacific permit so special compared to other flats species (and other permit?)

Keith: “It’s definitely the difficulty aspect as you don’t catch them by mistake. It’s the one kind of addiction that you can refine and get better at. Permit fishermen are a different kind of animal and for me whether it be Atlantic, Anak, Africanus or Indo’s, the feeling will be exactly the same. The attraction becomes a necessity when you spend so much time fishing for them, finally hook one that stays on, feel the anxiety of it being on the line before finally holding this amazing slab of silver and gold”.

What were the major obstacles you faced when you first started targeting Indo-Pacific permit?.

Keith: “I think doubt in the fly was the biggest hurdle to overcome as It’s a confidence game. It’s hard to catch the first Indo but it gets easier as you become more confident. The biggest mistake is often placing the fly too far away from the fish and moving it too slowly.

As you spend more time fishing for them you understand how to position yourself taking into account what’s under foot, what the currents or wave action is like, where to place the cast and how to get the fish’ attention. I always tell my guests to let the fish make the decision; rather too close than too far and, “all you need to do is show the fish the fly and then it’s up to the Indo to decide if it wants to eat or not”

What is it that makes indo-pacific so challenging to catch?

Keith: “I still believe that we have a lot to learn about the species as it’s hard to understand how a fish can have such a split personality. On some days a “way below par cast” will entice a fish to rush a fly and eat, when other days you can make 100 perfect casts at different fish and present the fly correctly to get a reaction that resembles as if you threw a rock at them. The stars have to align, the weather has to be right, the cast, the strip, the colour and weight of the fly, the fish has to see it and then for some strange reason it has to decide to eat”.

How does fly fishing for indo-pacific permit compare to targeting permit (Trachinotus falcatus) in, for instance, the Mexican Gulf?

Keith: “I haven’t caught enough Atlantic permit (Trachinotus falcatus) to preach as if I know this answer. All I can say is that from what I have experienced they are equally as ball-achingly difficult. The only difference is that we catch 90% of our Indo’s on foot and in 1 to 3 foot of water with a slow to medium stripped fly. From my limited experience with Atlantic permit (Trachinotus falcatus) they don’t seem to like the fly stripped and most of the shots I have had have been from a skiff. Other than that, they are “brothers from another mother” that all went to the same school of difficult”.

We still have a lot to learn about the species

Endless sandflats provide the hunting grounds for the indo-pacific permit.

What are the most essential skills to bring to the fore when targeting indo-pacific permit?

Keith: “Casting, casting, casting, and casting! Being able to put that fly into the right place at the drop of a hat, and being able to accurately cast, cast, and cast”.

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned over the years while targeting indo-pacific permit?

Keith: “Never become too despondent and don’t take permit fishing personally. It’s a game of practice, enthusiasm and belief”.

Do you have any tips for optimizing the tackle setup for indopacific permit?

Keith: “Fish as light as you can when it comes to fluorocarbon tippet (12 to 15lbs). Most importantly bring as many well tied Alphlexo’s that you can get your hands on as they work, but never underestimate the tying secrets that the guides hold close to their hearts”.

What have been the most important lessons when it comes to flies and presentation?

Keith: “Currently the fly pattern doesn’t vary as the Alphlexo entices 99% of the Indo’s we catch. The colour, weight, size and style does however vary between atolls and spots and it’s evolving constantly. If you show a fish a fly and it hangs around long enough to allow a fly change then change the fly rather than keep showing the same fly”.

Once you locate an indo-pacific permit (or a small school of fish), how do you best approach them?

Keith: “As you fish mostly on foot its best to intercept on their path to where they are going as its best to present the fly to them coming straight at you or between straight on and 45 degrees. What is underfoot will determine how you can approach them as we often fish on mottled bottom that crunches under foot. The weather also plays a part as wind gives you a bit of cover and so does wave action. I believe that current is one of the biggest factors as it carries scent and sound so I’d rather fish to fish up current versus down current”.

Is there anything one needs to be particularly conscious about when an indo-pacific permit is finally on the fly (and eventually eats)?

Keith: “The most important thing to understand is that you need to keep in direct contact with the fly at all times. An Indo inhales the fly, so the slightest twitch on the line can mean an eat, which requires a steady strip strike to set the hook. Quite often, when you feel a bump, it’s the fly being exhaled and you have missed the eat”.

What are the most prolific indo-pacific permit fisheries to your knowledge – and where is your favourite place to target them?

Keith: “The most prolific in the Indian Ocean is without

doubt the Amirante chain of islands. What makes these fisheries so amazing is that there can be piles on certain days and others nothing. All the atolls fish differently and fish better on different tides. Miss a trick and you could quite easily not see a fish. The humbling part is that even if you know the atoll, the spots, the tidal preferences and fly pattern it by no means guarantees a fish in 7 days of fishing”.

Any other valuable tips, for people who would like to catch their first indo-pacific permit?

Keith: “Fish with an organisation/guide who understands the species, destination and how to fish for Indo’s. Don’t make an already frustrating situation into an ALMIGHTY frustration that you would never want to do again. Stack all the cards in your favour”.

All the atolls fish differently and fish better on different tides

Adult permit typically feed on crustaceans.

Indo-Pacific Permit

Indo-Pacific permit (also known as golden pompano and snubnose pompano) is a species of pompano indigenous to the Indo-Pacific Ocean, which is distributed across a vast area ranging from the shorelines of East Africa and the Red Sea to the Marshall Islands and Samoa, north to southern Japan and south to Australia. It can grow to over one meter in length (specimens up to 110cm have been recorded), but the average size is some where between 40 and 50cm – and fish in the 60cm range are considered trophies.

Indo-Pacific permit inhabit sandy shorelines and muddy bays near river mouths and mangrove tidal channels as well as seaward coral- and rock reefs. They are a schooling fish, but as they grow and mature, they become increasingly solitary. Adults typically feed on crustaceans, sand mollusks, and other hard-shelled invertebrates such as oysters and small crabs.

The Seychelles

While there are guided fly fishing operators in both Australia and Oman specializing in Indo-Pacific permit, the Seychelles are widely recognized as one of the best places to target Indo-Pacific permit anywhere in the world. Especially Poivre, Alphonse Island, and Astove Atoll are known for their permit fisheries.

For more information: www.alphonsefishingco.com

Considered by many a total game-changer, the Alphlexo Crab has now become the go-to fly for most hard-core Indo-Pacific permit fly fishermen. It’s an imitation of a small sand crab and it can be varied in size and colour depending on the habitat and conditions.

The material list is as follows:

Hook: Gamakatsu SL 12S

Thread: Danville’s 2/0 Waxed

Body: Flexi Tubing

Weight: Lead Eyes XS, Nickel & Bead Chain Eyes XS

Eyes: Hard Mono – Burnt

Legs: Ultra Chenille Micro

Glue: UV glue or similar

For

EXTEND THE LIFE OF THE UNSUNG HERO OF FISHING GEAR: Wader Longevity Lies in your Hands

Many aspects contribute to a great day on the water. The scenery, the company, whether or not the fish cooperate – the list goes on and on. However, one of the most commonly overlooked aspects arguably plays the most important role in the quality of your day – gear. Think about it. If one of the guides on your favorite 5-weight is broken, it’s not going to be nearly as enjoyable (or effective) when you’re trying to drop a hopper underneath that juicy cutbank. If you’re drag isn’t running smooth, how happy are you going to be when you get that fat rainbow on the reel and your tippet breaks on the first run? Whether it’s rods, reels, packs, nets, boats, whatever – if the gear you rely on isn’t performing at its best, you are diminishing the quality of your day.

While waders aren’t going to help you find more fish, hook more fish, or release more fish – they are without a doubt one of, if not the most, critical pieces of gear in your arsenal. The sole purpose of waders is to keep you dry, therefore, they’re designed to keep you comfortable. Nothing throws a wet towel on an otherwise fantastic day quite like the feeling of being cold, wet, and most importantly, uncomfortable.

Over the past 30 years, Simms has earned a reputation for building the highest performing, most durable waders in the world. However, the materials and construction methods Simms utilizes will only take them so far. The truth of the matter is, Simms wader longevity lies in the hands of their owner.

On any given day, you can walk on the floor of Simms’ repair center and find waders that are 10, 15, even 20 years old hanging up to dry. These waders have been repaired and are getting ready to be sent back to their owners for continued use. Waders like these that have endured season after season of abuse and are still going strong aren’t from a special production run, or built by a singular wader making guru – they’ve just been treated with care by their owners. If properly cared for, all Simms waders have the ability to last for the long haul.

Above: Using the right layering underneath your waders will prevent abrasion and tear, thus prolonging the life of your waders.

Left: Storing waders properly is key to keeping them intact and fishable. By hanging them up, you’ll prevent moisture from being trapped, which in turn will prevent the fabric and seams from being eaten by up fungi, mildew, and bacteria.

Proper Layering

Rule number one for wader longevity – be mindful of what you wear underneath them. You’d think that with as harsh as most fishing environments can be, the exterior of the wader would take the brunt of abrasion and wear and tear. And that is true, but only when you wear appropriate layering.

It’s amazing just how abrasive some fabrics like denim and canvas can be to the interior of a wader. And let’s not forget, pants made from these types of fabrics all have buttons and zippers which obviously can degrade and destroy a wader very quickly. Besides, do you really want to fish in jeans anyways? Probably not. Do yourself and your waders a favor – wear appropriate layering underneath.

Washing and Drying

Another major contributor to wader longevity is washing. Of course, you don’t need to wash your waders after every single fishing session, however, it’s definitely a good practice to give them a wash every so often. The Gore-Tex membrane is porous. The way it works is that the pores in the membrane are smaller than a water molecule, but they are big enough for water vapor to escape.

Left: When sitting down in your waders always carefully check the ground for sharp rocks, sharp sticks, thorns etc.

This is how waterproof breathability is achieved. Regularly washing your waders not only keeps them fresh, it prevents fish slime, oil, dirt, and other substances from building up and blocking the pores/breathability of the Gore-Tex membrane.

Keep in mind, when it comes to washing waders, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. The best and perhaps the safest way to wash your waders is to do it by hand. Turn the wader inside out, use a soft scrub brush with soap that doesn’t contain fabric softener, scrub the interior, and rinse all the soap off.

Repeat this process with the waders turned right side out. If you want to use a washing machine, you can. However, it’s best to use one that doesn’t have an agitator. If it does have an agitator, make sure the machine is set to its most delicate cycle. Whether you hand wash or use a washing machine – do not use a dryer. Hang them in a cool, well-ventilated area until dry.

Storage

Nothing degrades and compromises a wader more than being stored improperly, especially for long periods of time. Just like socks and underwear, your waders should have a designated spot

while not in use. That designated spot is not: Waded up in the back of your car, haphazardly tossed in the corner of your garage, or crammed in a duffel with your wet and funky wading boots.

The best way to store waders is to hang them. Hanging them keeps creasing, bunching, crumpling and other compromises out of the equation.

Ideally, where you store your waders is also where you allow them to dry out. If you don’t have that luxury and for whatever reason you have keep your waders stored folded up, just make sure they are completely dry (inside and out) before you fold to store. Wherever you store your waders, make sure it’s an area free of or at the very least, out of reach from mice and other small rodents.

Maintenance

Finally, just like any piece of valuable gear, waders greatly benefit from annual or even bi-annual maintenance. This is an opportunity to find and correct small issues, and/or identify and fix problem areas before they get worse and really

When it comes to washing waders, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it

compromise the integrity and life of your wader.

One of the most common (and easiest) repairs on a wader is fixing pinholes. Simply turn your waders inside out and spray with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). If there is a pinhole, the problem area will turn very dark. To fix these pinholes, smear a very small amount of Aquaseal over all the dark spots that appear.

Once all the pinholes have received a small application of Aquaseal, allow the wader to dry (inside out) for at least 24 hours. Remember, Aquaseal is only meant for pinholes found in wader fabric and works best with a less is more approach. It is not meant to be used on attachments such as stockingfeet.

While conducting maintenance on your waders, if you find a trouble spot that is something you don’t feel comfortable handling on your own, or a component needs to be replaced always feel free to reach out to your local retailer.

Keeping your waders in top-notch condition not only provides anglers with a better experience, it adds years of life to an incredibly important piece of gear. It’s not hard and it doesn’t take a lot of time – it just takes a little bit of discipline. Take care of your waders – after all, they were designed and built to take care of you. Add

Use a mat when putting on your waders, and think twice when walking the banks; walk around the thorn bushes or other potential harmful objects instead right through them, and don’t sit down on any rough or sharp surfaces.

General information on how Flyfish Europe’s Simms warranty works: If a Simms product fails due to workmanship or material defect during the life of the product, please return it to the dealer, where you bought the product, for repair or replacement. This warranty does not cover damages caused by improper care, accidents or the natural breakdown of materials over extended use and time.

All defective or damaged products should be returned to Flyfish Europe for evaluation and will be repaired or replaced at the discretion of Flyfish Europe. All Non Warranty Repairs will be charged.

Be aware:

Self Repairs on seams on waterproof breathable garments can affect the warranty. Self repairs can make it impossible for the Repair Technicians to locate and repair the leaks. In the worst case, a product will be impossible to repair and will therefore be deemed as Beyond Repair/Worn Out.

Scan QR code to learn more about wader repairs

A combination of thoughtful design, rugged materials and endless testing go into making the world’s highest quality waders. But what they really take is patience – as much patience as it takes to wait for that tug on the end of your line. Because great waders are never mass produced by machines. They are made one at a time by craftspeople – men and women in Bozeman, Montana who are anglers just like you.

GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL outerwear is waterproof, exceptionally lightweight and offers the ultimate in breathability, durability and extended comfort. Constructed with a woven backer, GORE-TEX® Pro Shell garments slide easily over other layers and offer exceptional tear strength and internal abrasion-resistance.

Toray s a heavy-duty engineered fabric with a microporous waterproof coating that utilizes 2-layer coated fabric, a single membrane layer and a tricot backer to offer improved durability.

All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.

5.11® HEXGRID• is a patented load-bearing technology platform that surpasses military-style web platforms (PAlS/MOllE). This laser-cut platform creates a continuous hexagonal grid pattern, oftering versatile mounting capabilities like never before. 5.11® HEXGRID• provides users with the opportunity to mount pouches and other gear at different angles for smooth ergonomic access and personal preference.

Microban International, Ltd. is the global leader in antimicrobial additives and odor control solutions. Our enduring antimicrobial technologies work to eliminate damaging microbial growth on products and surfaces without impacting aesthetics or functionality. Our portfolio of Microban® and AEGIS® odor control solutions also provide extended freshness and hygiene for textiles.

Our most durable wader features a new, proprietary fabric from GORE-TEX® proven over 16,000 hours of field testing. Make the most of your time on the water: Head out in the most feature-laden, abrasion-, punctureand tear-resistant wader made. The Simms features and functionality that meet the demands of the world’s most discerning guides and anglers.

G4Z ®

STOCKINGFOOT

Patented baffled, compression-molded Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot

2 zippered chest pockets with integrated retractor docking stations for strategic access to fishing essentials

Zippered, micro-fleece lined handwarmer pockets for added storage and appreciated cold-weather reprieve

Built-in, lower profile GORE-TEX® belt loops for enhanced strength and durability

Patented front & back leg seams for enhanced mobility and increased durability

Patented 2mm abrasion resistant built-in gravel guards

Patented baffled, compression-molded Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot fit/lace bite

FABRIC TECH: GORE-TEX® 3-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN UPPER / GORE-TEX® 4-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN LOWER AND SEAT

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADERS

Simms’ most durable wader that’s been meticulously refined to offer features and functionality that meet the demands of the world’s most discerning guides and anglers. The Simms G4 Pro® Stockingfoot Wader is the most features a wealth of design- and material innovations that, combined with the greatest attention to detail and functionality, provide you with the ultimate in comfort and durability.

G4 PRO ®

STOCKINGFOOT

Adjustable air-mesh suspender system with opposing Duraflex buckles for waist-high conversion, now with a fabric suspender divider

Top zippered chest pocket with fly patch/tool docking station for easy access to fishing essentials

Patented front & back leg seams for enhanced mobility and increased durability

Patented 2mm abrasion resistant built-in gravel guards

Patented baffled, compression-molded Anatomically engineered stockingfeet for enhanced comfort and improved boot fit/lace bite

TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold

WATERPROOF WADER POUCH (Sold seperatly)

FABRIC TECH:

GORE-TEX® 3-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN UPPER / GORE-TEX® 4-LAYER PRO SHELL TECHNOLOGY IN LOWER AND SEAT

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> ANATOMICAL STOCKINGFOOT

ESSENTIALS Wading

BACKMAGIC WADING BELT - BLACK

Designed by orthopedic physicians & manufactured by a medical products company // Highly breathable structured mesh for support & ventilation // 2-part adjustable closure: VELCRO® Brand fasteners - easy & secure closure, self-adjusting, anatomically correct fit.

WADING BELT 38MM FUCHSIA, AVALON TEAL

Constructed with 38mm/1.5” wide elastic webbing and a low profile side release buckle // Adjustable from 30” to 52”(76 - 132cm)

NEOPRENE WADING BELT - BLACK

5-mm neoprene provides comfortable alternative to standard wading belts // Holds shape when tight for safe-wading // New heavy-load buckle for added strength & safety // 5 cm high density neoprene with a hook-&-loop side adjustment

WADING STAFF ALUMINIUM - BLACK

Lightweight yet highly durable 7075 aluminum tubing with coated stainless steel cable and ribbed closed-cell foam handle // Simple yet firm deployment opens and closes in seconds // Extended closed-cell foam handle for multiple grab heights

WADING BELT 2” - SIMMS ORANGE, CAMO CARBON, CAMO OLIVE DRAB

Constructed with 50mm/2” wide elastic webbing and a low profile side release buckle // Adjustable from 30” to 52”(76 - 132cm)

WADING STAFF

RETRACTOR & RUBBER TIP - BLACK

RETRACTOR: Braided Spectra cable is extremely strong Extends up to 3 ft. // Connects to both Wading Staff strap & sheath. RUBBER TIP: StreamTread™ rubber tip grips between rocks & crevasses //Perfect for hike-to-fish applications // Quieter in the water than aluminum tip

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADERS

Simms’ long-standing, award-winning wader with an exciting update to the material package, improved fit, and an enhanced feature set while remaining the most comfortable, reliable, and performance-driven wader ever.

G3 GUIDE TM

STOCKINGFOOT & PANT

Scan QR code to watch product presentation

Double snap closure with TIZIP® waterproof fly zipper.

Patented abrasion-resistant built-in Gravel Guards. Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

Top access zippered stretch pocket plus zippered, reach-through micro-fleece lined hand-warming chest pocket.

Updated material lamination package with even more durable, breathable, and comfortable Gore-Tex Pro Shell 3-layer upper and 4-layer lower

Adjustable spacer air-mesh suspender system with a fabric suspender divider.

Patented front & back leg seams deliver articulated fit, improved mobility, and increased durability

Abrasion-resistant built-in Neoprene Gravel Guards

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

Built-in low-profile back belt loops with high and low options; 1.5 inch stretch nylon belt included

Keep your hemostats close at hand with Simms’ patented Sharkfin Buckle that clips into your wader suspenders. (Sold separately / Pliers not included).

TIPPET TENDER POCKET (Sold seperatly)

WATERPROOF WADER POUCH (Sold seperatly)

FABRIC TECH:

3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL IN UPPER; 4-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL IN SEAT & LEGS

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT

Designed for bringing hard-to-reach waters into focus, Flyweight Stockingfoot Waders fuel the advance with a thoughtfully designed fishing accessory system for gear on the go, lightweight yet durable engineering for added stamina, and best-in-class GORE-TEX waterproof-breathability for guaranteed dry performance — day in and day out.

FLYWEIGHT TM STOCKINGFOOT

Keep essentials in check with a chest pocket array that includes 5.11® HEXGRID® attachment system with dual-access dump pocket and zippered stash pocket behind

Designed for compatibility with all Flyweight Pods and Accessories

Fit and function innovation includes breathable air mesh suspender attachments, lower top hem, and zippered side gussets - for relaxed or athletic fit options

Abrasion-resistant built-in Neoprene Gravel Guards with boot hooks

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

FABRIC TECH:

UPPER: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 3-LAYER

LOWER: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 4-LAYER

GUSSET: GORE-TEX PRO SHELL 3-LAYER STRETCH

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADERS

provide numerous amenities. Your feet will be satisfied in anatomically engineered neoprene booties with built-in gravel guards. There are plenty of places to store need items with a reach-through hand warmer chest pocket, a zip top pocket as well as a flip out zip secure pocket. Also GORE-TEX® 3-Layer laminate provides breathability and water proofing so you can keep fishing in comfort all day long.

GUIDE CLASSIC TM STOCKINGFOOT

Reach-through hand warmer chest pocket with zippered top stash pocket

Attached sewn-in flip out chest pocket included.

Attached sewn-in Tippet Tender™ pocket with retractor docking station & tippet spool sleeves included.

Reach-through hand warmer chest pocket with zippered top stash pocket

Built-in low-profile back belt loops with high and low options; 1.5 inch stretch nylon belt included

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with built-in gravel guards

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

FABRIC TECH:

GORE-TEX 3-LAYER WADER LAMINATE WITH REINFORCED LOWER LEGS

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT

WADERS

The ultimate wader for your almighty dollar, the Freestone Stockingfoot has been refined through years of testing and tweaking and is infused with decades of Simms wader DNA for a determined daily driver — regardless of where you fish. Available in the colours: Smoke and Midnight.

FREESTONE ®

STOCKINGFOOT & PANT

Stretch elastic suspenders with Simms custom opposing male and female buckles for easy waist-high conversion

Upper chest pocket array features a top access stretch woven storage pocket, micro-fleece lined hand-warmer pockets and integrated loop fly patch

Built-in Tippet Tender Pocket

Hip pockets allow for quick access to essentials

Gusseted & zippered fly improves fit & ease of on-off

Dual rear belt loops; 38mm stretch elastic wading belt included

Patented front & back leg seams deliver articulated fit, improved mobility, and increased durability

Abrasion-resistant built-in Gravel Guards

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

FABRIC TECH:

DURABLE AND BREATHABLE TORAY QUADRALAM 4-LAYER UPPER & LOWER

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADERS

The best value in wading, the Tributary collection from Simms features every ounce of Simms high-performing wader DNA in an affordable package. Breathable & comfortable waterproof polyester 3-layer upper & 4-layer lower.

TRIBUTARY TM KID’S, WOMEN’S & MEN’S

Custom Duraflex buckles throughout

Built-in Tippet Tender Pocket

Reach-through fleece lined hand-warming pocket, with zippered top stash pocket and integrated fly patch

“Whoa-now” grab handle built into the back of wader to hold kiddos close when they wade too deep

Single rear belt loop with 38mm non-stretch wading belt

Built-in Gravel Guards with gathered elastic bottom hem

Anatomically engineered neoprene stockingfeet with anti-microbial finish

FABRIC TECH:

BREATHABLE & COMFORTABLE WATERPROOF POLYESTER

3-LAYER UPPER & 4-LAYER LOWER

> WAIST HIGH CONVERSION

> BUILT-IN GRAVEL GUARDS

> HOURGLASS STOCKINGFOOT

For the angler not afraid to hoof it a ways to the perfect fishing hole—and for anyone looking for firmer purchase on the riverbed—men’s wading boots from SIMMS are a must-have. Ideal as fly fishing boots, they’re offered in both felt- and rubber-soled versions and are compatible with studs for ultimate traction. Rubber is preferred when worried about the spread of invasive aquatic species; especially in national parks where felt can’t be used.

Simms Right Angle® Footbed technology allows you to to fish longer and fish all day without foot fatigue. The bio-mechanically correct arch support aligns the foot into a correct neutral position, providing superior comfort and support. In addition, a structured heel cup provides increased ankle support and aids in the body’s ability for natural shock absorption. Each shoe and flip with Simms Right Angle® Footbed technology will keep your feet supported for a rigorous day on the water.

The Boa® Lacing System provides custom-comfort with smooth, even closure and no pressure points. Featuring a wire lace made of 49 strands of aircraft-grade stainless wire cable and bombproof nylon reel guides that are designed to take all of the abuse that you can throw at them.

Vibram® invests heavily in research and development of products never overlooking even the most minute detail. Vibram Megagrip offers the ideal combination of grip and durability for maximum surface adaptability.

The RiverTreadTM platform is designed for the demanding angler looking for the best wading footwear on the market. RiverTreadTM features Simms’ latest engineered components to maximize comfort, performance, and slip-resistance. Molded 3D footbed with arch support and ball flex. Aligns foot for all-day comfort and optimizes biomechanics.

FULL RANGE AVAILABLE

www.flyfisheurope.com

WADING BOOTS

FOR THE ULTIMATE IN TRACTION AND COMFORT

The most advanced wading boot on the water, G4 PRO Powerlock Boot offers supreme durability and superior grip thanks to state-of-the-art materials working in lockstep with the new Powerlock cleat system for on-the-fly traction customization.

G4 PRO POWERLOCK BOOT

Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off

Molded TPU heel counter for comfort and in-stream ankle support

Dual density EVA midsole for comfort

Vibram Idrogrip outsole with built-in Powerlock system for quick and customizable traction adjustment.

Waterproof synthetic Lorenzi scratch leather upper combined with waterproof synthetic mesh for long-term durability

Laser-cut fabric eye stays allow finetune adjustments across the top of the foot and provide reliable durability

FABRIC TECH: OUTSOLE- 12MM FELT WITH BUILT-IN POWERLOCK SYSTEM; UPPER- HIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT SCRATCH LEATHER

TPR cleats should be installed when Aluminum cleats are not in use

Powerlock System for quick and customizable traction. Includes two sets of cleats: 14 G4 PRO Powerlock Aluminum Cleats. 14 G4 PRO TPR Cleats.

FABRIC TECH:

OUTSOLE- VIBRAM® IDROGRIP RUBBER; UPPER- HIGHLY ABRASION-RESISTANT SCRATCH LEATHER

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADING BOOTS

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

// THE MOST ADVANCED CLEAT SYSTEM IN WADING BOOTS HAS ARRIVED!

WADERS

A guide-quality felt-soled wading boot that provides the support, traction and durability you need to negotiate varied river beds and the trails that get you there day in and day out. Time spent on the river is knowledge. And the more time you spend on the river, the more your gear needs to perform at a high level. Our G3 Guide™ Wading Boot is designed with working guides in mind.

G3 GUIDE TM

FELT AND VIBRAM TM

Collar height integrates with gravel guards on all Simms Stockingfoor waders

Waterproof nubuck leather & Lace‐to‐toe upper

Molded external TPU heel counter & heel clip

12mm heavy duty felt sole

HARDBITE™ STUD – FELT

ESS plates for improved cleat retention & proprioception

HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT

ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT

High abrasion textile with full scratch rubber rand

HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM

FABRIC TECH: VIBRAM IDROGRIP OUTSOLE

Large scratch rubber rand for enhanced durability

Dual‐density midsole for shock absorption

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

// WADING BOOTS

The key to powering through the obstacles of a river system is great footing. The rugged, responsive Guide BOA Boot stacks agility and stability in your favor with maximum Vibram traction and an exacting BOA-lacing system fit.

GUIDE BOA ®

FELT & VIBRAM

12mm synthetic felt outsole provides great traction

Full TPU coated upper for durability

BOA Fit System to dial into fast, effortless, precision fit

TPU outsole plate for stud and cleat retention

FABRIC TECH: TPU OUTSOLE PLATE FOR STUD AND CLEAT RETENTION

Full closed-cell neoprene foam lining

Vibram Idrogrip Outsole

Rubber toe and heel overlays for added protection

FABRIC TECH: VIBRAM IDROGRIP OUTSOLE

HARDBITE™ STAR CLEAT

ALUMIBITE™ STAR CLEAT

HARDBITE™ STUD – VIBRAM

FLYWEIGHT® ACCESS BOOT VIBRAM SOLE

Vibram Idropgrip Lite - exclusive to Simms - provides the highest grip possible // Lightweight, non-absorbent mesh uppers // Welded TPU overlays in high-abrasion areas for added durability // Supportive, but lightweight and comfortable webbing lacing hardware across the foot // Full closed-cell neoprene foam lining

FLYWEIGHT® BOOT VIBRAM SOLE

Low-profile, lightweight synthetic boot upper // Welded TPU film in high abrasion zones for durability // Speed lace hooks & lacetoe closure // High cushion dual-density EVA midsole for comfort // Stud-compatible 4.5 mm Vibram® Idrogrip rubber outsole

FLYWEIGHT® BOOT FELT SOLE

Low profile, lightweight synthetic boot upper // Welded TPU film in high-abrasion zones for durability // Speed lace hooks & lace-to-toe closure High cushion, dual density EVA midsole for comfort // Felt stud compatible // 12 mm felt sole for traction

FREESTONE RUBBER SOLE

Waterproof, synthetic scratch leather upper with toe and heel reinforcement // Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/off Dual density EVA midsole for a comfortable ride underfoot // Updated rubber outsole package is compatible with Simms Hardbite Star Cleats, Hardbite Studs and Alumibite Star Cleats

FREESTONE® BOOT FELT SOLE

Waterproof, synthetic scratch leather upper with toe and heel reinforcement // Partial neoprene lining for comfort and easy on/ off // Dual density EVA midsole for a comfortable ride underfoot // 12mm felt outsole is fully compatible with Simms Hardbite Felt Studs

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADING BOOTS & FOOTWEAR

TRIBUTARY BOOT RUBBER SOLE

Rugged synthetic leather and mesh with scratch rubber overlays in high abuse areas // Bomber, corrosion-resistant lacing hardware // Fully-gusseted tongue helps prevent debris from getting inside

TRIBUTARY BOOT FELT SOLE

Bomber, corrosion-resistant lacing hardware // Fully-gusseted tongue helps prevent debris from getting inside // Full neoprene lining for durability and ease of on and off // 12mm Synthetic Felt Outsole

CHALLENGER® 7” BOOT

Vulcanized rubber outer with neoprene lining // Simms proprietary rugged deck outsole provides grip and traction on all surfaces // Simms Right-Angle footbed for all-day support // Pull-on loop for easy on and off

FLATS SNEAKERS RUBBER SOLE

Mid-cut, lace-toe, & synthetic upper // Durable, saltwater-friendly materials // Nonabsorbing foam lining with synthetic face // Gum rubber outsole for traction when wet // Removable Right Angle® footbed for a secure & comfortable underfoot ride

ZIPIT II FLATS BOOTIE RUBBER SOLE

Easy on-off saltwater wet wading shoe with gusseted zipper opening // Perforated neoprene upper with vulcanized rubber overlays for additional durability // Durable vulcanized rubber outsole molded EVA sock liner

FLYWEIGHT NEOPRENE WET WADING SOCK

Technical wet-wading socks. Built-in gravel guard sheds water, gravel and muck // Silicone print grip inside gravel guard to help keep it in place // Reinforced lace hook keeps guard from lifting in strong currents

GRAVEL GUARDS

Features include a nonslip, contoured design that forms a surefire seal, a loop wrap with Velcro closure, and textured nylon jersey on the underside of the gravel guard for enhanced durability

Cinder

NEOPRENE WADING SOCK

With an improved anatomical fit that contours to the shape of your foot, socks feature 2.5mm breathable, odor-fighting airprene in the underfoot and a neoprene jersey upper that keeps feet warm in cooler water

GUIDE GUARD SOCK

These durable, comfortable neoprene socks + your wading boots = easy, wader-less fishing // Constructed of cushy 3.5 mm neoprene, these socks are left/right foot-specific for dawn-to-dusk comfort

2.5mm neoprene socks for wet wading wizardry in fresh- and saltwater // Anatomical fit contours shape of foot // 2.5 mm airprene underfoot allows feet to breath & reduces odors // 2.5mm neoprene jersey top keeps feet warm in cooler water

Anatomically correct left/right stocking feet // 3.5 mm neoprene fills out wading boots // Abrasion-resistant textured nylon jersey for durability & no-slip // Perforated neoprene for quick drainage // Molded boot hook hardware

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // WADING ACCESSORIES

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

Includes M2 replacement knob & wire lace for easy lace system replacement in the field // S-M lace length: 100 cm, fits boot sizes 7-10 // L-XL lace length: 110 cm, fits boot sizes 11-14

REPLACEMENT

High quality denier nylon laces for increased lifespan // Feeds easily through boot hooks and eyelets // Laces measure 74” (188cm) long

Custom cleats to provide extra in-stream traction when paired with the G4 PRO Powerlock Boot // Includes 14 cleats; enough for one full pair of boots // Durable aluminum/TPU hybrid construction to balance in-stream grip and long-term durability // Includes custom drill bit for installation

Custom cleats provide protection for Powerlock docking ports on the G4 PRO Powerlock Boot outsole // TPR construction is flexible and boat deck and raft friendly // Cleats should be installed in the outsole when Aluminum Cleats are not installed to provide protection for cleat docking ports // Includes custom drill bit for installation Includes 14 cleats; enough for one full pair of boots

The cleats are soft enough to conform to what’s under your foot as you change locations // With solid footing, your cast is better and you’re free to explore the river.

Works directly with Vibram® rubber soles for traction you can trust on varied river bottoms and mossy rocks // Durable carbide chips help steady your stance

These studs offer traction you can trust, so you can move and explore the river at will.

Replaceable boot studs for solid footing on variable river bottoms in felt wading boots.

Some of the best fishing comes on the lousiest days: a truth we’re guessing most of you have learned firsthand. With SIMMS rain gear and fishing jackets, you’ll be suited up against whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at you while out casting, whether on freshwater or brine. Many of our SIMMS rain jackets, vests, bibs, and rain pants feature GORE-TEX designs for the maximum in waterproofing and breathability while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Who cares what the skies are doing?

The ultimate in warmth-to-weight available in a synthetic is coupled with incredible packability and softness that mimics goose down, all with excellent water-repellency for wet-weather protection.

Toray s a heavy-duty engineered fabric with a microporous waterproof coating that utilizes 2-layer coated fabric, a single membrane layer and a tricot backer to offer improved durability.

GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL outerwear is waterproof, exceptionally lightweight and offers the ultimate in breathability, durability and extended comfort. Constructed with a woven backer, GORE-TEX® Pro Shell garments slide easily over other layers and offer exceptional tear strength and internal abrasion-resistance.

River Camo offers you an edge at beating detection, so you can get one step closer to the fish and that perfect casting position. In collaboration with Veil Camo, Simms® developed River Camo—a cutting edge, proprietary and mathematically driven camouflage pattern for fish—by breaking up shapes.

All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.

Polartec® Thermal Pro® fabric provides superior benefits over traditional fleece - Warmth without weight, highly breathable, fast drying, durable, easy care.

By combining a tightly woven face fabric with a microporous coating, Pertex® Quantum Pro delivers a very high level of water resistance whilst remaining lightweight, soft and breathable.The increased weather resistance and durable construction means these fabrics are ideal for use in cold or damp environments where keeping warm and dry is crucial.

OUTERWEAR

COME RAIN COME SHINE

WADERS

Cut from advanced GORE-TEX 3-layer fabrics and kitted with ingenious fishing details throughout, this guide-trusted jacket survives and thrives in the harshest conditions. The Simms G4 Pro® is the most rugged, durable and weather-sealed jacket on the market, infused with the latest technology and design features that will enhance your dexterity, comfort and performance on the water, day-after-day, week-after-week, monthafter-month.

G4 PRO ®

JACKET

3-point adjustable storm hood with structured visor

Microfleece-lined collar provides added protection from the elements

Flip out vertical loop fly patch

Water-resistant sleeve pocket

Two large chest pockets with tethered chamois

Handwarmer pockets with laser-cut drainage

2 zippered chest pockets

Stretch Shingled, no-catch watertight cuff

High-vis center hood panel

FABRIC TECH: UPPER SLEEVES SHOULDERS AND HOOD - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL - 80D 100% NYLON W/ C6 DWR / 100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER; BODY AND UNDER SLEEVES - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // OUTERWEAR

The iconic G3 Guide Wading Jacket is the perfect blend of mobility and fishing utility. Lightweight guaranteed dry 3-layer GORE-TEX® combined with the first-ever 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro with stretch will move you through the elements with purpose. Durable, breathable, and comfortable GORE-TEX® Shell 3-layer through the body with GORE-TEX® stretch panels strategically placed to move with every dynamic cast. The fabric feels tough to protect from the rain and durable to hold up to any weather mother nature tosses at you.

G3 GUIDE

JACKET

Left chest pocket has loop front patch to store flies

Zippered stretch-woven pocket on interior of wearer’s left chest and dump mesh pocket on interior of wearer’s right chest

Jacket length from collar to hem hits just below the waist to pair with waders and is versatile for on deck performance

Articulated sleeves and key stretch panels across the back enhance mobility. Shingled, no-catch watertight cuffs

FABRIC TECH:

LOWER FRONT AND BACK BODY - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX - 70D 100% NYLON WITH DWR/100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER;

SIDE HOOD, UPPER BACK, SHOULDERS, UPPER SLEEVES, CHEST POCKETS AND UNDER ARM PANELS - 3-LAYER GORE-TEX - 40D 100% NYLON WITH MECHANICAL STRETCH AND DWR/100% NYLON TRICOT BACKER

The Simms® CX Fishing Jacket is a pursuit driven, angler designed, 3-Layer waterproof workhorse. Built so you can keep your head in the game and keep cranking in any condition. Waterproof, breathable, dialed. Engineered to outlast the others.

CX

JACKET & BIB

3-point point adjustable storm hood with high front clousure

Center front zipper backed with waterproof storm flap

Dual horizontal chest pockets constructed with TRU® Zip waterproof self-healing zipper for 100% submersible pocket protection

Vertical zippered handwarmer pockets, interior stretch woven left zippered chest pocket with sunglasses chamois.

Articulated sleeves with safety reflective hits and a hook and loop adjustable cuff.

FABRIC TECH:

MAIN BODY: 3 LAYER WATERPROOF BREATHABLE: FACE: 53% ATY NYLON, 43% NYLON 6.6, 4% SPANDEX, MEMBRANE: 30K WATERPROOF, 15K BREATHABLE, BACKER: 20D NYLON TRICOT

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // OUTERWEAR

Kick the snot out of the cold, wet and unforgiving with the ultimate waterproof, Guide Insulated Jacket and Bib. Rugged GORE-TEX fabrics and PrimaLoft® insulation deliver leading on-the-water performance, keeping you dry and warm across a full range of surly fishing conditions.

GUIDE INSULATED

JACKET & BIB

Rugged GORE-TEX shell for 100% waterproof protection combined with PrimaLoft® insulation for reliable warmth.

Insulated and adjustable storm hood for warmth and protection from the elements

TRU® Zip submersible chest pockets keep essentials secure and dry

Two handwarmer chest pockets and an outer zippered chest pocket to secure essentials

Ankle zippers and bottom cuff closure for easy on/off when wearing boots

Fully seam-sealed

Jacket: Carbon // Bib: Carbon

FABRIC TECH:

JACKET // CHEST, LOWER BODY HEM & ELBOWS

- 2-LAYER GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 90D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. HOOD, SHOULDERS, BACK AND FRONT BODYGORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY

- 80D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. INSULATIONPRIMALOFT® SILVER HIGH LOFT 80G IN BODY / 60G IN HOOD AND SLEEVES. LINING - 47 GSM, 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER TAFFETA WITH DWR.

BIB // SEAT, KNEES & BACK OF LOWER LEG - 2-LAYER GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 90D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. BODY, BACK OF LEGS & FRONT OF LOWER LEG - GORE-TEX WITH GORE PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY - 80D 100% NYLON WITH DWR. INSULATION - PRIMALOFT® SILVER HIGH LOFT 80G IN WAIST AND SEAT / 60G IN CHEST AND LEGS. LINING - 47 GSM, 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER TAFFETA WITH DWR.

Adjustable cuffs.

Underarm zips for optional ventilation.

Drawcord bottom hem, with kill switch D-ring, keeps the warmth in and cold out.

CHALLENGER INSULATED JACKET

High-loft insulation in body & sleeves // Water-resistant center front zipper with storm flap // 3-point adjustable storm hood // 2 zippered hand-warming pockets, chest pocket, internal zippered pocket // Dual draw-cord adjustable bottom hem

FABRIC TECH: 100% nylon 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR; Lining: 74 gsm 50D 100% polyester w/ DWR; Insulation: Primaloft® Rise 120g in body / 100g in sleeves

CHALLENGER INSULATED BIB

High-loft insulation in body & legs // Water-resistant center front zipper with storm flap // Hand-warming pockets & thigh pocket with plier sheath // Built-in reinforced removable knee pads

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% nylon 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR; Lining: 74gsm 50D 100% polyester w/ DWR; Insulation: Primaloft® Rise 100g in legs and 80g in upper body.; Overlays: knee and cuffs: High abrasion resistant 275gsm 100% nylon 6.6 2-ply oxford weave

CHALLENGER JACKET

Adjustable storm hood rolls up behind collar // Zippered chest pocket with interior sunglasses chamois // Reflective logos for increased visibility on and off the water // Drawcord bottom hem with kill switch d-ring attachment // Hook and loop closure cuffs

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Polyester 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR. Lining: 100% Polyester

CHALLENGER BIB

Two hand warmer pockets and zippered chest pocket // Beltloops with kill switch d-ring attachment // Cargo pocket with drop-in plier pocket and drain holes // Hook and loop cuffs with long zippered ankle zips for easy on and off // Reflective logos for increased visibility on and off the water // Side zip entry

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Polyester 2-layer Toray® w/ DWR. Lining: 100% Polyester

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // OUTERWEAR

BULKLEY INSULATED JACKET

High-loft insulation in body & sleeves // 3-point adjustable Storm Hood // 2 fly box-compatible pockets; 2 zippered, micro-fleece lined hand-warming pockets // GORE-TEX fabric inside of hem for deep wading // Shingled cuff construction

FABRIC TECH: 2-layer GORE-TEX® shell; PrimaLoft® Silver Insulation; 100% polyester lining

GUIDE CLASSIC JACKET

3-point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain // Hook and loop front patch to store drying flies and center back D-ring to attach landing net // Two large chest pockets designed to carry fly boxes and an interior zippered chest pocket for essentials

FABRIC TECH: 3-layer GORE-TEX - 70D 100% nylon with DWR/100% nylon tricot backer

FREESTONE JACKET

3-layer Toray® laminate for waterproof, breathable protection against any storm mother nature presents // Single point adjustable storm hood with high collar and bonded brim to shed rain // YKK® water-resistant front zipper with storm flap // Waisthigh zippered hand warmer pockets with micro brushed tricot liner and drain holes, built for wading

FABRIC TECH: 3-layer Toray®; 100% nylon with tricot backer

SPLASH CAST JACKET

Roll away adjustable storm hood // Inner neck gasket with gusset and drawcord closure // Submersible front dump pocket Neoprene cuff and hem with hook and loop closure // Reflective logos for increased visibility

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Recycled Nylon 3-layer Toray® w/ DWR Collar and cuff gaskets: Neoprene with polyester jersey knit.

FLYWEIGHT SHELL JACKET

Zippered chest pocket features self stowing pouch with compatible quick clips to attach to Simms’ Flyweight Waders, packs and accessories. // Two zippered hand pockets // Simple cuff designed with partial stretch for easy on and off // Adjustable stretch drawcord in hem for secure fit

FABRIC TECH: GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS 100% nylon 2-layer with DWR

FLYWEIGHT ACCESS HOODY

Recycled micro-ripstop polyester main body fabric, combined with Polartec® Power Grid™ providing an incredible warmth to weight ratio and freedom of movement // Zippered stretch mesh chest pocket // Two zippered hand pockets // Stretch cuff for easy on and off

FABRIC TECH: Main Body: 100% recycled polyester rip-stop, 61 gsm with PFC-Free DWR

WAYPOINTS RAIN JACKET & PANT

Jacket: Adjustable hood // Single flapped chest pocket // 2 zippered handwarmer pockets with drainage // Pant: Lightweight and packable 2.5-layer waterproof breathable nylon with DWR rain protection and mechanical stretch movement // Stretch waistband with zipper fly, featuring a D-ring for kill switch anchor

FABRIC TECH: Body fabric- 2.5-layer Toray® 50D 100% nylon w/ C6 DWR

FALL RUN

COLLARED JACKET

Upper front and back body feature internal quilting, providing a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets

FABRIC TECH: Shell - 58 gsm 100% recycled polyester ripstop with DWR. Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body and hood), 40g (sleeves). Lining - 47 gsm, 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR.

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // OUTERWEAR

NEW COLOURS

FALL RUN VEST

Internal quilting on upper front and back body provides a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets and internal chest zippered pocket on wearer’s right

FABRIC TECH: Shell - 1.71 oz./yd.2 (58gsm) 100% recycled polyester-ripstop with DWR; Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body and hood), 40g (sleeves); Lining - 1.39 oz./yd.2 (47 gsm) 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR

FALL RUN HOODY

Internal quilting on upper front and back body provides a smooth exterior for abrasion resistance when worn with waders or bibs // Zippered handwarmer pockets and internal chest zippered pocket on wearer’s right

FABRIC TECH: Shell - 1.71 oz./yd.2 (58gsm) 100% recycled polyester-ripstop with DWR; Insulation - PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation, 60g (body) and hood), 40g (sleeves); Lining - 1.39 oz./ yd.2 (47 gsm) 100% recycled polyester taffeta with DWR

EXSTREAM HOODY

Cold-day mastery (minus the bulky catastrophe), the ExStream® Hooded Jacket is powered by hardworking PrimaLoft® insulation for knockout warmth that punches above its weight.

FABRIC TECH: Body - Toray® pre-quilted stretch fabric - 30D 91% polyester, 9% spandex with durable water repellent finish.

Insulation: PrimaLoft® Silver Thermoplume w/ Cross Core™ technology - 200g fill rate throughout.

EXSTREAM PULLOVER HOODY

Designed for effortless integration under waders or bibs.

FABRIC TECH: Body Upper and Sleeves - Toray® pre-quilted stretch fabric - 30D 91% polyester, 9% spandex with durable water repellent finish. Lower Body - 240 gsm 47% nylon, 36% polyester, 17% spandex hard face fleece with anti-pill and durable water repellent finish. Insulation: PrimaLoft® Silver Thermoplume w/ Cross Core™ technology - 200g fill rate throughout.

The secret to angler happiness on those fitful or downright ferocious weather days out on the fishing grounds? Layering, of course. And you can’t beat SIMMS for the very best in fishing base layers and mid-layers: just the thing to wear under our elite shells (or as standalone duds, depending on conditions).

From moisture-wicking tops and bottoms to fleece pullovers, our fishing thermals ensure you can withstand the kind of back-and-forth temperature swings Mother Nature tends to serve up on more than a few casting days—giving you that much more opportunity to reel or pull in a beauty out of those promising depths. Layer up in style with SIMMS!

All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.

Avra™ keeps you comfortable with superior wicking speed and exceptional dry times - up to 50% faster than fabrics of similar weight, construction and composition. Due to their size and unique shape, Avra fibers are significantly more flexible than standard polyester. This creates fabrics with a distinctly silky feel that keeps you drier and more comfortable than ever before.

Swiss Tech Inside. HeiQ Fresh, sustainable odor control, is a fully bio-based odor control technology that meets USDA Biopreferred requirements.

FULL RANGE AVAILABLE

www.flyfisheurope.com

LAYERING

HEAD-TO-TOE WARMTH

HEAVYWEIGHT BASELAYER HOODY AND BOTTOM

Top: Snug hood protects face from the elements // Cuff thumbs // Asymmetrical zipper to reduce friction

Bottom: Smooth jacquard face with grid-fleece backside // Flat elastic waistband and fly pouch designed with minimal seams

FABRIC TECH: 190 gsm 96% polyester, 4% elastane micro grid fleece finished with antimicrobial + moisture management; Lower Legs - 88% polyester, 12% elastic

Compression-resistant Polartec® Power Stretch® double layer fleece with durable water repellent // Stretch waistband, cuff and stirrups to keep in place when wearing under waders or bibs // Adjustable waist // Stretch hand pockets

FABRIC TECH: Body - 539 gsm 92% polyester (76% recycled polyester), 8% spandex Polartec® Power Stretch® Heavyweight Solid Velour/Velour Recycled Odor Resist finish.

Dark Stone, Black

THERMAL QUARTER ZIP TOP & BOTTOM

Top: Smooth faced grid-fleece layers provide maximum warmth // High collar with a quarter length zipper Botttom: Tapered hem for a streamline fit when wearing layers underneath and over top // Dual slash handwarmer pockets

FABRIC TECH: Body - 255gsm 93% polyester, 7% elastane finished with antimicrobial + moisture management

LIGHTWEIGHT BASELAYER TOP & BOTTOM

Quick-dry, jersey knit polyester combined with sustainable odor control for maximum next-to-skin comfort // Flatlock seam construction for next to skin comfort // Top features Raglan sleeves for optimal fit and movement

FABRIC TECH: Body - 192 gsm 92% spun polyester, 8% spandex finished with HeiQ Fresh odor control + HeiQ Speed Dry

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // LAYERING

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

Raven

FLEECE MIDLAYER BIB

Abrasion & odor-resistant fabric // Grid-fleece interior // Stretch-woven stirrups // Center front, 2-way zipper // YKK® corrosion-resistant zipper // Thermo-laminated zippered chest pocket

FABRIC TECH: 95% polyester/5% spandex; Pocket: 85% nylon/15% spandex

BOXER BRIEF

Constructed with breathable Avra™ fabric that starts cool and keeps you cool // Fly pouch and seat area designed with minimal seams for chafe-free comfort and support // 14cm inseam

FABRIC TECH: 89% Avra® polyester, 11% elastane, 150 gsm with moisture management and anti-microbial treatment

Sterling, Carbon

COOLING BOXER BRIEF

Constructed with breathable Avra™ fabric that starts cool and keeps you cool // Fly pouch and seat area designed with minimal seams for chafe-free comfort and support // 14cm inseam

FABRIC TECH: 89% Avra® polyester, 11% elastane, 150 gsm with moisture management and anti-microbial treatment

Long-sleeve to short-sleeve, button-up to half-zip, hoodie to fleece sweater, you’ll find a fantastic range of fishing shirts for men here in the SIMMS inventory. Every one of these shirts has been designed for the needs of the angler: protection against the elements, all-day comfort, and the kind of functional-but-stylish design that looks just as good during post-fishing hangouts as it does on the water. Our men’s fishing shirts come in a wide range of styles, so there’s something for every angler.

Our guide-caliber fishing bottoms encompass the full spectrum from wading shorts to rain pants and include such all-out winners as insect-repellent leggings and wind- and water-resistant overalls: the kind of tough but easy-wearing apparel whose utility extends beyond angling to just about any outdoor pursuit. With fishing-ready features like cuffs that snap tighter designed for wet wading. Plus, we happen to think these SIMMS fishing pants and shorts are pretty stylin’ as well.

Built to last, Cordura fabric has proven performance in the world’s toughest environments. Made with high tenacity air jet textured nylon 6,6 filament yarns for strength and durability.

Scotchgard™ Protector Stain Release helps most stains lift out in the wash, making clothes easier to care for and last longer. The addition of Scotchgard™ does not reduce the softness of the fabric or affect the breathability.

Sportswear using the COR3™ Technology fabric finish have a UPF rating of 30 or greater, properties to minimize odor and outstanding wicking performance for important moisture management.

Insect Shield® repellent apparel provides long-lasting, effective and convenient personal insect protection. The active ingredient in Insect Shield® is so tightly bonded to the fabric fibers that it retains effective repellency throughout the lifetime of the product. This is well beyond the lifecycle of most other products on the market which typically last only a number of washes.

FULL RANGE AVAILABLE AT

www.flyfisheurope.com

Avra™ keeps you comfortable with superior wicking speed and exceptional dry times - up to 50% faster than fabrics of similar weight, construction and composition. Due to their size and unique shape, Avra fibers are significantly more flexible than standard polyester. This creates fabrics with a distinctly silky feel that keeps you drier and more comfortable than ever before.

River Camo offers you an edge at beating detection, so you can get one step closer to the fish and that perfect casting position. In collaboration with Veil Camo, Simms® developed River Camo—a cutting edge, proprietary and mathematically driven camouflage pattern for fish—by breaking up shapes.

All Simms outerwear features nylon YKK® zippers to minimize corrosion and provide high performing, durable wear. These are long-lived no-nonsense zippers that just keep performing.

Polygiene® is a natural and permanent odor-control fabric treatment that stops the growth of odor-causing bacteria, allowing you to wear more, and wash less. Based on natural silver chloride made from 100% recycled silver.

Swiss Tech Inside. HeiQ Fresh, sustainable odor control, is a fully bio-based odor control technology that meets USDA Biopreferred requirements.

Allows stains to be removed easily during normal laundering. Grabs stains and prevents them from sticking to the fiber, allowing them to easily wash off during soaking or washing.

brrro technology has three unique cooling effects that combine to immediately and continually reduce the temperature of yout skin. More specifically, the Triple Chill Effect combines the power of cooling minerals, active wicking, and rapid drying to enhance dryness and comfort while also working to reduce temperature.

FRESH

STAIN AWAY

SPORTSWEAR

BORN OF RIGOROUS FIELD-TESTING

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // SPORTSWEAR

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

NEW COLOURS

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

G3 GUIDETM VEST

CAPACITY: 24 POCKETS, 4 D-RINGS

FABRIC TECH: 100% Cordura Nylon ripstop with DuPont™ Teflon® water-resistant finish & 100% polyester mesh lining

GUIDETM VEST

CAPACITY: 26 POCKETS, 4 D-RINGS

FABRIC TECH: 100% Nylon fabric with DWR finish; 100% polyester mesh lining

Tan, Deep Sea Green

TRIBUTARY VEST

CAPACITY: 9 POCKETS

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 100% Nylon, Mesh: 100% Polyester

Padded collar for all day comfort

Updated pocket array includes compression molded fly box storage pocket and easy access chest pocket keeps your phone secure

Two large horizontal lower pockets, four flapped hook and loop drop pockets and large zippered game pocket

Durable and weather-resistant nylon shell with breathable polyester mesh for comfortable travels

FREESTONE VEST

CAPACITY: 10 POCKETS, 1 NET D-RING, ROD HOLDER

FABRIC TECH: 100% Nylon Ripstop Shell Fabric; 100% Polyester Mesh

Laxá in LaxardalurIceland‘s Hidden Brown Trout Paradise

Fanatic salmon fishermen know about the Laxá in Adaldal – one of Iceland‘s most prolific salmon rivers in the northeastern Nordurland-district. However, what they – and other like-minded trout fishermen – are probably clueless about is that the upper reaches of the river offer some of Iceland‘s perhaps best brown trout fishing.

WHIRLING SNOW FLAKES blindly collide onto my glistnening wet clothing. One freezing weather front after the other screeches and drifts through the valley catalyzed by hoarse northern winds, which nestle seamlessly upstream like a heavy, unwelcome, and ice-cold expiration from the Arctic realm. It is almost impossible to keep warm!

The steep cliffs that tower majestically over the river‘s meandering branches downstream are clad in an increasingly nuanceless whiteness, the sky is the colour of lead, and the trembling air that hangs above the river‘s fleeing water masses is like a grainy fog that flickers before our eyes, repealing all depth of field in the otherwise contrastful and saturated lava landscape.

The season has just been kicked off here at Laxá in Laxardalur, Iceland‘s perhaps best – and certainly most overlooked brown trout river. It‘s June, it‘s light out all day, and early in the summer – a time of year that offers notorically unpredictable and skizophrenic weather in Iceland. During last year‘s season opening week, the guests at the lodge were fishing in t-shirts and rolled-up sleeves. This year, well... it‘s an entirely different story.

THE RIVER‘S ICY WATER licks ceaselessly up against my legs, the wind rips relentlessly at my flapping wading jacket hood, and the cold and wet snow flakes that crash against the exposed skin of my face send shivers through my entire body, while I step further downstream along the seam that I‘ve just covered.

I squint my eyes, shiver, and try to find a little warmth in the knowledge that – despite the weather - my buddy, Martin, and I have had incredible fishing the last two days. Having landed several well-built 2kg+ brown trout and more than a handful of fish in excess of 3 kilos, we are in no position to be complaining about the weather. By now, however, there is an undeniably appealing warmth and comfort in knowing that we‘ll soon be on our way back to Scandinavia, where it‘s actually summer.

I scan the water to pick a new spot to cast my streamer at –if my frozen hands and fingers are capable of another cast, that is. The fly hisses reluctantly through the air, and after a couple of blind casts it collides onto the water a couple of meters beyond the seam that I‘ve picked out. A bit further downstream, approximately where the fly will soon be passing over, there‘s a depression in the bottom and a promising holding spot with relatively slack water.

I MEND THE LINE somewhat mechanically upstream, to give the zonker fly a moment to sink towards the river‘s dark and secretive bottom. I then proceed to retrieve the fly, incorporating small jerks and longer strip bursts along the way to make the flies‘ hair materials pulsate enticingly.

It doesn‘t take long before I feel the strike. It is brutal and heavy as lead, and my blunt strip set it met by an immediate series of deep, convulsive shakes that permeate through the fly line via the fly rod‘s crooked carbon fibres and straight into the cock handle. The slack line now starts fluttering through the fly rod‘s guides and, shortly after, when it finally runs out – and direct contact is established between the fish and my fly reel‘s drag mechanics - each of the fish‘ ensuing pulls and jerky escape attemps downstream are accompanied by an exact correspondance of hoarse drag noises. I suspect it‘s a solid fish. And once it changes tactics and starts cartwheeling out of the water in a series of acrobatic jumps that send spiralling cascades of foamy lead-grey water drops into the air, my suspicion is confirmed.

AFTER 30 YEARS OF FLY FISHING, I‘m still at a point where I forget things on shore. My landing net for instance. I‘m in the middle of the river, the fish is propelling itself irresistibly downstream, and I find myself flushed with these horrifying visions of the barbless hook being spit or the fickle 0.18mm leader breaking before I ever get anywhere near the landing net.

Luckily, my buddy, Martin, is within relatively close range and he has already taken note of the drama that is unfolding. He rushes to get the net, and when I finally approach the river bank with the fish thrashing maniacally around at the end of a short line – a great deal further downstream from where it was hooked - Martin is right there with the net.

The majestic fish finally starts showing signs of tiring, but it hasn‘t quite given in yet – and it certainly doesn‘t like the shallow water along the river bank. It rushes off into deeper water three times in demonstrative spurts of pure muscle and anger. And it isn‘t until the fourth of fifth attempt – after having balanced nerve-wrackingly on the net frame several times, that Martin finally slides the net under the fish, bags it, and tows it triumfantly towards the bank.

IT IS TRULY BIG. The measuring tape shows a whopping 70 centimeters, and the scales in my McLean-net, which reveal a weight of a solid 4 kilos, bear witness to a mastodont of an old brown trout with dark-brown colorations, an enthralling blue sheer across the almost steel-like gill plates and incalculable amounts of ink stainlike spots, which – along the flanks – are meticulously encircled by irridiscent hues of silver. The magnificent fish is released back into the river after a few, quick photos. And then the trip is over.

We‘re both somewhat shell shocked as we follow the river back to our car. Ahead of us is a gruelling 7-hour drive underneath the drousy floodlight of the low hanging midnight sun. We have to make haste to reach our early morning flights to Copenhagen and Oslo.

We have burned our candles in both ends, but our madness has paid off. And with plentiful amounts of adrenaline pumping through our vains, a whole tank full of fuel, a bag full of Red Bull and lots of stories to disseminate after 2,5 hectic and memorable days along our new favourite river, we‘re hopeful that well make it to Reykjavik unscathed.

We can always sleep when we get old...

Fact File - Laxá in Laxadalur

The Laxá River drains out of Myvatn; the sixth biggest lake in Iceland. The river meanders a little less than 100 kilometers downstream through undulating terrain in Iceland‘s Nordurland district some 500 kilometers from the capital, Reykjavik. Laxá means salmon in Icelandic, and it is essentially a salmon river - but a dammed one. And this, at least in part, explains why the brown trout fishing is soo good. The dam, which is situated 20 kilometers from the ocean, effectively prevents the salmon from traveling futher up the rivershed, thus providing the brown trout with a perfectly suited and protected habitat all their own.

Laxá‘s brown trout fishery is divided into two different beats; Laxá in Myvatnsveit and Laxá in Laxardalur, which comprise

more than 30 kilometers of perfect and crystal clear brown trout habitat. Laxá in Myvatnsveit is the upper beat, and it consists of myriads of pools, pockets, lava shelves, back waters and riffles, which are interruptet by one island and gravel bar after the other.

Laxá in Laxardalur, on the other hand, is more sedate and wide – not unlike many of Iceland‘s famed salmon rivers. This part of the river, which is found immediately below Mavatnsveit, is more than 300 meters wide in certains spots. However, there are very few sections of the river that can‘t be crossed in a pair of waders – and the bottom, which primarily consists of fine lava sediments and gravel, is unproblematic to wade.

Since 2017, the numbers of fish in Laxardalur have exploded

There are also arctic char to be caught in Laxardalur, and some of them are quite big.

Licenses for Laxadalur‘s beats include lodging. The lodge is called Raudhólar and it is an ambient full-service lodge situated conveniently on the eastern shores of the river. It was completey refurbished in 2019, and it accommodates 10 fly fishermen, which are offered their own private rooms with modern bathrooms, central heating and comfortable beds. The lodge is run by Reykjavik Angling Club (https://www. svfr.is) and is administered by Bjarni Höskuldsson, who has fished the river since he was a child, and who is a wealth of knowledge about the conditions in- and on the river.

The fishing is split into two sessions. The first one is from 8:00 – 14:00, and it is followed by lunch at the lodge. The second session lasts from 16:00 – 22:00, and it is concluded by dinner at the lodge. The season runs from May 29th until August 28th, and prime-time is from the beginning of July until the middle of August. (This is when the dry fly fishing is typically at its best).

Mandatory catch and release practices were introduced in 2017. Before then, between 1600 and 2000 fish were killed every season. Since 2017, the numbers and size of the fish in Laxá have exploded, and the average fish in the river is now somewhere in the vicinity of 60 centimeters. Every year, multible fish exceeding 70 centimeters are caught, specimens up to 76 centimeters have been caught on dry flies, and fish up to 84 centimeters have been caught on streamers.

Because the fish are generally well-nopurished and in fantastic ovarall condition it‘s not uncommon to catch brown trout over four kilos, and the biggest fish in the river probably weigh around 7 – 8 kilos. For an arctic river with a native and self-reproducing strain of brown trout, this is very impressive in deed!

If you visit Laxá in Laxardalur early in the season, you might also find yourself catching big land-locked arctic char, as these fish migrate downstream from Myvatn during the winter months. Otherwise, there are no other distractions from the brown trout fishing. The brown trout are numerous. And they feed actively and intensely throughout the whole summer.

Fact File – The Fishery and Equipment

There are many fish in Laxá in Laxardalur, but you shouldn‘t necessarily expect to catch a lot of fish there. For that, the water is, quite simply, too clear and the fish too savvy. 2 - 3 fish per day is what you can realistically expect to catch – if you fish hard all day, that is.

Laxardalur is divided into six smaller beats, encompassing both the eastern- and western shores of the river, and they are rotated among the lodge guests on a daily basis. There is nearby parking at the best pools and runs, and every beat offers more water than you could possibly fish in a whole day. However, in stead of letting it all overwhelm and stress you, it‘s a good idea to stay calm and fish the most promising holding spots with great care and patience.

Early in the season, you‘ll be concentrating on covering water effectively either with weighted streamers, which are swung cross-current at a sedate pace with frequent upstream mends, or with indicator nymphs. Some of the most popular patterns include Zonker TC streamers from Fulling Mill in sizes 6 – 2, Grey Ghosts and Rabbit Zonkers. With regards to nymphs, especially size 1018 jig-nymphs in natural colours along with red or orange Squirmy Wormies, are safe bets. These flies can be bounced along the bottom, and they‘re easy for the trout to see and pick up.

As the season progresses and summer arrives, Laxardalur‘s trout turn their attention increasingly towards the surface, and here they typically rise to different midges and sedges. At this time of year, most people completely switch over and focus on sight-fishing with dry flies. For this type of fishing, 9‘ 4-weight fly rods, WF floating lines and 5 – 6 meter long leaders, which can be mended and manipulated; and which are tapered to a 0.14mm tippet – are typically used. For streamer- and nymph fishing, on the other hand, heavier equipment is used: 9‘ 6-weight fly rods, WF floating lines with short and powerful tapers and 4 – 5 meter long fluorocarbon leaders with 0.20mm tippets.

Fact File – How to Dress for Iceland

The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and some of Laxardalur‘s guests have experienced waking up to 20 centimeters of snow in the middle of July. That should amply underline the importance of packing warm- and weatherproof clothing. Additionally, the water temperatures are quite moderate all year round, so you‘ll need up to three wool layers or a thick fleece layer (for instance Simms‘ Fjord Pants) in addition to a pair of wool core bottoms. Also, make sure to bring warm upperbody layers – preferably wicking ones, since you‘ll be alternating a lot between mobile and stationary fishing.

A Gore-Tex shell jacket, which breathes and – more importantly –creates an effective barrier against wind, rain, and snow is essential. Furthermore, it is highly recommended to bring wool fingergloves, a beanie, and a fleece Buff to keep your neck and ears warm, when the winds are really howling.

Fact File – Flights and Logistics

There are many convenient flights to Iceland; a place that is generally well-connected to the rest of the world. Icelandair offers flights to the capital Reykjavijk all-year-round at very favourable prices. If you book well in advance, you should be able to find return tickets in the 200-250 Euro range, and there‘s always the possibility of doing a stop-over in Iceland for a bit of fishing, if you‘re traveling elsewhere. Additional information about Icelandair‘s flights to and via Iceland can be found here: www.icelandair.com

In order to drive along Laxa in Laxardalur and get to the individual beats, it‘s definitely an advantage to rent a 4x4 of a certain size – one that, as a minimum, matches a Duster Dacia.

GoIceland (www.goiceland.com) offers a wide selection of 4x4‘s, and they can help you find just the right car. Schedule for an approximately 7-hour drive from Keflavik to the river. It‘s a 500 kilometer drive, but many of the roads are relatively small and winding.

Later in the season, Laxardalur’s seatrout can be targeted with dry flies. The author, because of the harshly cold weather conditions, had the most succes with streamers.

As the season progresses, the trout turn their attention increasingly towards the surface

“Gorgeous” is a adjective that pretty much describes the Laxardalur trout. They’re beyond pretty!

The biggest fish in the river probably weigh 7-8 kilos!!!

Waterproof Non-submersible

Waterproof Fully submersible

G3 GUIDE® BACKPACK

CAPACITY: 61 X 33 X 23CM / 50L

FABRIC TECH: Main Shell: 420D Nylon Double Ripstop with TPU coating; Liner: 200D Polyester

G3 GUIDE® Z DUFFEL BAG

CAPACITY: 32 X 79 X 41CM / 60L

FABRIC TECH: Main Shell: 420D Nylon Double Ripstop with TPU coating; Liner: 200D Polyester

Pewter

FREESTONE® BACKPACK

CAPACITY: 98 X 54 X 26CM / 30L

FABRIC TECH: Shell: 330D Nylon Ripstop w/backside PU coating and face DWR treatmen, Liner: 200D Polyester, Rainfly: 70D Nylon Ripstop w/PU coating and face DWR treatment.

Midnight, Black, Pewter

FREESTONE SLING PACK

CAPACITY: 43 X 22 X 20CM / 12L

FABRIC TECH: 330D Nylon Ripstop Fabric with backside PU coating and face DWR treatment; 200D Polyester Liner

Midnight, Black, Pewter

FREESTONE CHEST PACK

CAPACITY: 23 X 15 X 10CM / 3L

FABRIC TECH: 330D Nylon Ripstop Fabric with backside PU coating and face DWR treatment; 200D Polyester Liner

NEW COLOUR NEW COLOUR

FREESTONE HIP PACK

CAPACITY: 25 X 15 X 20CM / 5L

Midnight, Black, Pewter

FABRIC TECH: 330D Nylon Ripstop Fabric with backside PU coating and face DWR treatment; 200D Polyester Liner

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // PACKS AND BAGS

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

TRIBUTARY SLING PACK

CAPACITY:

FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner

Woodland Camo, Tan

TRIBUTARY SLING PACK

CAPACITY: 38 X 22 X 12CM / 10L

FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner

Regiment Camo Olive Drab, Simm Orange, Woodland Camo Sandbar, Anvil

TACO BAG CAPACITY: 45L

FABRIC TECH: PU-coated 600 denier ballistic nylon

Black, Hex Flo Camo Carbon

CHALLENGER MESH DUFFEL

CAPACITY: 69 X 28 X 33CM / 60L

FABRIC TECH: 600D Polyester Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner

RIVERKIT WADER TOTE CAPACITY: 42 X 51 X 30CM / 40L

FABRIC

Black

OPEN WATER TACTICAL WAIST PACK

CAPACITY: 27 X 11 X 18CM / 5L

FABRIC TECH: 1680D Ballistic Polyester Shell Fabric w/DWR Coating and backside PU Coating; 200D Polyester Liner

Black

STASH BAG

CAPACITY: 29 X 46 X 28CM / 35L

FABRIC TECH: Main Shell: 1200D Polyester with TPU Coating; Liner: 200D Polyester

WADERS // DRY CREEK RANGE

Waterproof

DRY CREEK® Z BACKPACK

Waterproof Fully submersible

DRY CREEK® Z SLING PACK

Waterproof Fully submersible

DRY CREEK® Z HIP PACK

Waterproof Non-submersible

Black, Simms Orange

DRY CREEK® ROLLTOP BACKPACK

CAPACITY:

Waterproof Fully submersible Black, Simms Orange

DRY CREEK® Z

GEAR POUCH - LARGE/SMALL

CAPACITY: 4L / 2L

FABRIC TECH: 300D polyester ripstop with an outside PU coating and inside TPU

Simms Orange Water Resistant

DRY CREEK®

SIMPLE TOTE

CAPACITY: 50L

FABRIC TECH: Upper material- 300D polyester ripstop with an outside PU coating and inside TPU lamination; Base material- 600D polyester ripstop with double side TPU lamination

Simms Orange

DRY CREEK®

DRY BAG - S, M, L

CAPACITY: S: 10L, M: 20L, L: 35L

FABRIC TECH: 210D Nylon Ripstop with PU Coating and DWR treatment

Scan QR code to watch product presentation Carbon

GTS ROLLER - 110L

CAPACITY: 80CM L X 44CM W X 38CM H

FABRIC TECH: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop w/double-sided PU coating Base: 1680 ballistic nylon; Lining: 200D polyester

GTS SPEY VAULT

GTS TRI CARRY DUFFEL - 45L

CAPACITY: 56CM L X 36CM W X 18CM H

FABRIC TECH: Body: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop w/ double-sided PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester Carbon

Carbon Carbon

GTS ROD AND REEL VAULT

CAPACITY: 119CM L X 15CM W X 23CM H

FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Lining: 200D polyester and brushed tricot

CAPACITY: · 83CM L X 23CM W X 15CM H

FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Face Pocket: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop with double-sided PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester w/ foam padding

Carbon

GTS SINGLE ROD AND REEL CASE

CAPACITY: 86CM L X 6CM W X 15CM H

FABRIC TECH: Outer Shell: 1680D ballistic nylon & 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop

Carbon, Simms Orange

GTS DOUBLE ROD & REEL CASE

CAPACITY: 86CM L X 13CM W X 15CM H

FABRIC TECH: Outer Shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic & 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // GTS RANGE

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

GTS REEL VAULT

CAPACITY: 41CM L X 28CM W X 18CM H

FABRIC TECH: Outer shell: 1680D Polyester Ballistic; Lining: 200D polyester and brushed tricot

GTS PACKING POUCHES - 3-PACK

CAPACITY: L: 36 X 25 X 16CM, M: 30 X 20 X 13CM, S: 20 X 15 X 9CM

FABRIC TECH: Body: 210D nylon CORDURA® mini ripstop w/ PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester w/ water-resistant PU finish

GTS GEAR DUFFEL - 80L

CAPACITY: 61CM L X 42CM W X 23CM H

FABRIC TECH: Body: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop w/ double-sided PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester

GTS GEAR DUFFEL - 50L

CAPACITY: 61CM L X 42CM W X 23CM H

FABRIC TECH: 420/660D CORDURA® ripstop w/ double-sided PU coating; Lining: 200D polyester

GTS PADDED CUBE - SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE

SMALL

THIRSTY TROUT KEYCHAIN Orange

What more could an avid angler ask for? Get a Thirsty Trout Keychain for your boat, your vest, and your fishing buddy! // Convenient key chain/bottle opener

Black

TIGHTLINES STRAP - 15’’ BLACK

Custom molded TPU strap with high density plastic buckle // 15” total length with 20 adjustment options // Designed for compatibility with all GTS products // Single strap included with purchase

Black

RETRACTOR

Attachment stems from a stainless steel pin that’s compatible with all Simms waders and packs, while the rugged PE coil extends the reach of your nippers, pliers, and tippet spools to about two feet.

Black

CARBON FIBER RETRACTOR

Carbon fiber tube and anodized aluminum clip are lightweight and highly durable // New & improved carbon fiber retractor tube with stainless steel pen clip attachment // Polyethene cord offers extension and retraction for quick tool access

Simms Orange

Black/Simms Orange

GUIDE LANYARD

Keep nippers and other key fishing tools exactly where you need them with this guide-approved, tangle-resistant lanyard // Built from indomitable Dyneema cording, details include anodized machined-aluminum hardware, a stainless steel split-ring attachment, and an adjustable fit for all-day comfort // Made in America.

TIPPET CADDY

Designed to keep tippet close-at-hand, the Tippet Caddy offers modular attachment and quick adjustment for headache-free rigging. No-frills design accommodates up to 6 spools of tippet from most manufacturers

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE // TOOLS & ACCESSORIES

THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONAL GUIDES + ANGLERS WORLDWIDE

Titanium, Simms Orange

FLYWEIGHT PLIER

Prep gear in advance or make micro-adjustments in the moment with tough, functional Flyweight Pliers - the go-to tool for both freshwater and light-tackle anglers. Unique ergonomic shape allows a variety of grips for anglers with hands of all sizes

Simms Orange, Nightfall, Black

FREESTONE NIPPER

Durable injection-molded nylon and stainless steel blade for clean line cutting // No-spring construction guarantees season-after-season of line cutting performance // Built-in lanyard attachment point // Not designed to cut braided line // Made in the USA

Pacific, Simms Orange

PRO NIPPER

Keep nippers and other key fishing tools exactly where you need them with this guide-approved, tangle-resistant lanyard // Built from indomitable Dyneema cording, details include anodized machined-aluminum hardware, a stainless steel split-ring attachment, and an adjustable fit for all-day comfort // Made in America.

Titanium, Simms Orange

Simms Orange, Black

GUIDE NIPPER

USA made machined-aluminum nipper with razor-sharp stainless steel jaws // Details include 6061-T6 machined aluminum arms and riveted, stainless-steel cutters // Made in America

DRINK JACKET

Maximize your hydration duration with Simms’ best-selling jacket, updated to fit multiple wading belt styles for spill-proof possession. 100% neoprene construction keeps beverages cold for the long haul.

Tropical Fly Fishing in Southern Europe

A long-lasting love story

emersed ourselves in, culture and history we have acquainted ourselves with, or memorable activities that we’ve engaged in - an invisible bond is created when we visit places that truly impress us.

For me, one of these places is Sardinia, but not simply because of the fishing (which we’ll get to in due time). During my childhood, in Italy, I made friends with some school classmates from Sardinia. In my imagination, as a child, they came from a remote tropical island full of wonder, and the whole place was just fascinating to me.

I remember my Sunday lunches, when I was hosted by their parents and rigorously ate Sardinian specialties, such as “carasau bread” and exquisite hand-made “malloreddus” sprinkled with very tasty sheep cheese.

My first visit to Sardinia dates back to the year 1992, and since then I have visited Sardinia almost every year - often several times a year. Along the way, I have discovered many uniquely beautiful places that I’ve grown gradually fonder of. But I’m not alone in my fascination with Sardinia. The island, a rare pearl, is the favourite destination of lots of visitors who, during the summer months, crowd the beaches and coves and submerge themselves in the crystalline waters. In my opinion, the Sardinian beaches are the most beautiful in the Mediterranean Sea, and – surely - some of the nicest in the world.

But how did tourism developments come about on this island? In its millenary history the Sardinian population, which was composed mostly of shepherds and farmers, never showed much interest in its coastal shores. They must have taken them for granted, not seeing any development possibilities in terms of business.

Sardinia is a rather remote Italian island in the middle of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Not many fly fishermen know about Sardinia and the fish species encountered there, but with fishing possibilities both inland and offshore – and loads to do and see - it’s a destination that ought to be on more people’s bucket lists.

The Sardinian beaches are the most beautiful in the Mediterranean Sea

“

The beaches provided little economic value until the 1960s, and even by then, they only provided only a minimal contribution to the local economy compared to the inland pastures and cultivated acreages.

A Sardinian friend from Olbia told me once: “Coastal areas were often bequeathed to women, because the coast and the beaches were considered not interesting... but due to the economic boom, a good number of women, who had been economically dependent on the men of the family till that moment, suddenly realized they sat on a treasure! There were some golden marriages from then on...”

The development of tourism

Sardinia, as we know it today – as a tourism destination, is the result of policies adopted in the early 1950s and the role that rich dreamers have played since the 1960s, first and foremost, the Arab prince Kerim Agha Khan, who at the time was just over twenty years old. He is considered one of the founding fathers of the “Costa Smeralda” that we all know today. However, in addition to the sea, which is as beautiful as in the Caribbeans, and the fantastic tourism facilities now present, there is much more to discover in Sardinia. To begin with, more than 25% of Sardinia is designated as parkland and wildlife reserves.

The island has a strong cultural identity, which is fascinating and sometimes mystical. Its history traces back to ancient times, something that’s substantiated by numerous archaeological sites, ruins of old towns, nuragic complexes, necropolises. (Sardinia has more than 7000 ancient sites that date from before 1000 BC).

Sardinia benefits from a vast uncontaminated hinterland, which has been capitalized on by the international motion picture industry. Film crews in search of unique film sets have been drawn to Sardinia for decades, and Sardinia has featured in many film productions: from western films to science fiction – and James Bond films. Moreover, the healthy terrain and soil, the sun, and the Mediterranean climate, together with genuine culinary traditions, have ensured Sardinia a central position in Italy when it comes to eno-gastronomic specialties.

The fishing

“And do you fish too?”, you will be wondering by now... Of course! On such an island with crystal-clear waters, it is obvious that the saltwater fishing is great. In fact, Sardinia offers a great variety of opportunities when it comes to sea fishing (from a boat).

The uniqueness of this destination is that it gives you the opportunity to combine a perfect holiday with your fiancée or family and your passion for fly fishing. Highly reputed charter boats are available at the marina of Porto Rotondo, which is also the European location chosen by the I.G.F.A for some of their European fishing events.

In saltwater, the locals practice the same fishing that’s common across the whole of the Mediterranean Sea: deep-sea fishing, trolling, and vertical jigging. Among the most frequent species that can be caught are; tuna, other pelagic sgombrids, dentex, groupers, swordfish, snapper, amberjacks, leerfish, and dorado (mahi mahi).

There are numerous historical sites to visit on Sardinia. The place has a unique and long history that dates back to (at least) 1000 BC.

Lots of possibilities

On a good day, as in other areas of the Mediterranean Sea, fly fishermen can be lucky enough to come across hectic surface activity, so-called “mangianze” in the local language. Seeing a feeding frenzy of tunas or, other minor sgombrids such as false albacore and bonitos, at a few meters’ distance, and casting your fly into the chaos, is just insane.

Personally, I find this one of the most exciting and adrenalinesoaked fishing situations that exists. Situations like this don’t happen all the time, and - compared to other regions of Italy, it is even rarer in Sardinia - but when it happens right in front of your boat... Wow, it’s just crazy!

Boat fishing is fun, but shore fishing and wading is certainly more suitable for fly fishing here. Sardinia has more than 1800 kilometres of coastline, and there are lots of sheltered lagoons. Many lagoons offer great fishing for seabass, but it is a quality- and not a quantity type of fishing experience. The flies to be used are the classical ones for this species; imitations of shrimp, baitfish, Clouser Minnows, and the likes.

Seabass in the lagoons

In the lagoons, where I usually fish, the seabass are often tailing in knee-deep water, and a little crab imitation is often the right choice. It’s just like fishing the exotic flats in the Caribbean or the Seychelles. When not tailing, seabass can be targeted with topwater flies like poppers - flies that generate a lot of noise and splashes on the surface. And when the seabass decide to zone in for the kill, they take the flies with extreme aggression.

The success of the seabass fishing depends a lot on the tides – and especially the periods after the changing tides can provide good fishing. In the lagoons, seabass typically co-exist with seabream and very big mullet. The latter are almost impossible to catch as they feed almost exclusively by filtering the water and sand for micro particles and nutrients. However, if you see big schools of seabream or mullet, the seabass are usually not too far away.

Black bass

For me, the best fishing in Sardinia is inland. And the preferred target species is black bass – or largemouth bass as they call them in the US. The inland waters - the most “wild territories” of the island – are populated by black bass, a widespread species in the lakes of Sardinia. The species was imported to the island in the 19th century from America and is now the main predator species in Sardinian inland waters.

Black bass are known and appreciated by lots of Italian spin fishermen, and some lakes are rather frequented with considerable fishing pressure as a result. However, as with the rest of the world, the rule of thumb, that the best waters are the least disturbed ones, is valid here too. (Having said that, in Sardinia it is very important to pay attention to unmarked prohibitions, private access restrictions, and general regulations and restrictions. Not all lakes are open to fishing, and there’s no point in getting into trouble with the locals).

In Europe, black bass is not one of those species typically associated with fly fishing. In my opinion, this is a big mistake. It is an aggressive fish, capable of spectacular jumps and fights, and it’s a cool, challenging, and fun predator to catch on the fly rod!

Big and lively streamers (preferably weedless and with some added weight) are the choice of medicine for bass.

Many of the inland lakes are perfect for bass. They are right in structure and have varying depths.

Black bass are aggressive fish, capable of spectacular jumps and fights

They look amazing too! The Sardinian black bass have wonderful colourations with marked green/black contrasts, and they reach remarkable sizes.

Fishing is mostly practiced in medium-sized and big lakes with fairly deep water, and in reservoirs with good water clarity. In the warm summer season, some of the big reservoirs will diminish and grow increasingly shallow due to the increases in water withdrawal.

Flies that disappear

It is possible to effectively fly fish black bass in certain areas of the lakes; at a depth of 0 to 5 meters. The best conditions are found during the warm season, especially when it comes to topwater flies: frogs, poppers, divers, and dragonfly imitations. The black bass here, when chased on the surface, have two ways of taking the fly: The classical “surface attack” with big, noisy splashes or a silent, almost imperceptible “vacuuming up” of the fly, where the bass sucks the fly into its big mouth from below the surface. In the latter case your fly will simply vanish from the surface with very little commotion – just disappear. It’s quite a cool thing to experience!

Stefan Larsson avoids wading unless it’s absolutely necessary. His stealthy approach has earned him lots of beautiful catches.

Effective flies for black bass are: Wolly Buggers, Clouser Minnows, Dahlberg Divers, Muddler Minnows, Bunny Leeches, Gurglers, Poppers, surface frog imitations, foam hoppers, crawfish patterns etc. Good fishing is often concentrated in small bays and along the banks, among submerged trees and branches where the big bass wait in ambush for their prey. Fishing in these snaggy micro-habitats, surrounded by an old “Western movie” atmosphere in the heat of the very hot Mediterranean sun, is special in- and of itself - and at times a surreal reality.

Want to fish Sardinia?

If you want to try this fascinating experience, I suggest that you check out Sardinia Bass Fishing. They are the only specialized operator for fly fishing trips in Sardinia (fly fishing is almost unknown in Sardinia) – and they are ready to provide the best possible service. They can also help you personalize your Sardinian holiday- and fishing experience whether you’re looking for a full-time fishing holiday or just a single day fishing trip ad-on. Check out: www.sardiniabassfishing.com

MORE TIME FISHING

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What’s what with Greenland? AN INTERVIEW WITH MR.GETAWAY

Getaway Fly Fishing or Flyfish Greenland. Who are we talking to?

- Both! Sorry about the confusion, you’re not the first to ask. My company is Getaway Fly Fishing. Our history of offering international fishing trips started back in 2001. FlyfishGreenland.com is our website dedicated to – well, fly fishing in Greenland, obviously.

Right. There’s a lot of buzz around fly fishing in Greenland. How did it all start?

- During the seventies, when quite a few Danes took on personal adventures by taking jobs in Greenland, they soon discovered that many of the rivers were full of Arctic char and started to fish for them. It wasn’t that the Greenlanders didn’t know, of course – they just weren’t interested in fishing for fun.

Anyway, the word got out and others – mainly Scandinavians, started traveling to Greenland to fish. Not in great numbers – travel was complicated and expensive in those days, but enough to see articles on Greenland’s Arctic char fishing appearing in magazines now and then.

During the nineties, a few fishing camps shot up, but the fishing never really caught on.

Why? The fishing looks great!

- Well, it is. But back then, I think a lot of people went to Greenland with spinning rods and ended up fishing glacier fed rivers with lots of silt and zero visibility. Other times, they were taken to rivers with clear water and lots of char, but those rivers were often short – at least the fishable parts – and had all the fish piling up in a few pools in front of a waterfall they couldn’t pass. Often, these rivers would also be close to cities, meaning they were fished hard by local netters and the average size of the char was rather small.

Danish angler, Thomas Søbirk was among the pioneers when it came to developing fishing tourism in Greenland. He has fished in Greenland numerous times, and we’ve had the chance to sit down with him and pick his brains about the fishing there, what drew his attention to Greenland in the first place, and how his company – Getaway Tours – got into the Greenland fishing scene.

Within a week, we had planned for a scouting expedition.

Editorial Staff Getaway Tours

In short, as the world started opening up for travel, spin fishermen slowly lost interest in Greenland and went for bigger fish elsewhere - and fly fishers couldn’t be bothered to “fish the same pool for char, all of the same small size, for a week”. At the time, I guess the reputation of the rivers in Greenland wasn’t that great.

It’s clearly a different situation today. So, what happened?

- In 2004, I was running fishing magazines in Denmark and Sweden. However, what had started as reader’s trips had slowly grown into a small fishing travel agency. For years, we had been talking about Greenland – we knew there was good fly fishing to be found somewhere up there, but we really didn’t know where to look.

One day, a Danish teacher working in Greenland sent us an article about his recent fishing trip to a river south of Sisimiut. That’s the scarcely populated country’s second largest city with 5,600 inhabitants, on the east coast of southern Greenland. Anyway, the images didn’t meet the standards expected for a magazine article but the char were quite big, and what he told us about the fishing really caught our attention: The river was lake fed, clear, and with more than ten kilometres of fishable water. According to him, it was perfect fly water!

The Greenland summer is short, and if I remember correctly, we were already well into August. Within a week, we had planned for a scouting expedition, and a few weeks later we knew we had found what we were looking for! We had formed a partnership with a local partner (still running to this day) and were getting ready to launch for the 2005-season.

You now have several well-known camps, and even a full-service lodge on one of them. You started all that right away?

- No, no – not at all! It was a long way coming! To begin with, we only marketed Greenland to Scandinavian guests and we were really afraid of scaring them away by being too expensive. Due to the remoteness of the world’s biggest island, operation costs in Greenland are high, the same goes for flights, so we tried to save on everything else. We would put two guests (that didn’t necessarily know each other) in a small tent together, we would go shopping provisions with the guests and split the bill and guests would have to help prepare meals and clean dishes.

The second season, we felt an upgrade to individual tents was needed but other than that, I think it pretty much ran like that for the first several seasons. And, with the clientele we had at the time, it was an instant success.

Why the success, if others had failed?

- Probably a combination of pure luck and some ability to see potential. Most importantly, we had been introduced to two great rivers: Erfalik and Napiarissat. Clear water - and lots of it, and good-sized fish. Just great fishing all together, which is always the foundation for success, though it won’t always be enough.

While we didn’t discover these rivers, we were the first to see the big potential they held. When we arrived in Greenland,

To add extra excitement, we started fishing with foam flies.

another Danish agency had prebooked the entire season that year but they hadn’t booked one single guest. Instead, they focused on filling groups on a river close to the main airport of Kangerlussuaq, a location offering easier logistics and much lower running costs but also a much poorer fishing experience (I don’t even think anyone fishes there today).

Their ignorance made it possible to partner up with Sirius, a local powerhouse of a partner offering the needed logistics on transportation, accommodation, and a strong understanding of how to operate successfully in Greenland.

Finally, I’d like to think we did some decent marketing. A big part of which was fishing the right fly.

The right fly?!

- When we started fishing these rivers, the char could be quite stupid. Especially if you were fishing big, bright streamers. So, to add some extra excitement, we started fishing them on foam flies, skated across the surface. Man, was this addictive?!

The big char would push a wave from several meters away, and the eats were super spectacular. The foam fly fishing really helped spread the word and became synonymous with char fishing in Greenland. It looked super cool on, so we made a DVD and distributed it widely.

Cool. So, from there on, it was just a matter of managing the bookings?

- Yeah, I wish! (laughs). Unfortunately, not at all. We knew that, sooner or later, we would exhaust the Scandinavian market. We needed an international clientele to grow this into a sustainable long-term operation. But to cater to a more demanding international clientele, we needed to raise the standards of accommodations and the level of service. That calls for bigger investments, which again calls for some security on return of these investments. And there was one big obstacle in the way: The rivers we fished were open to everyone with a national fishing license.

So, there could be other outfitters running camps on the same rivers?

- Exactly! The only reason it didn’t happen was because our partner was the only one in the area with boats licensed to transfer tourists. But in the early years, we had problems with illegal boating and would sometimes have others camping and fishing the rivers we had been promoting.

It didn’t happen often, but it happened often enough that it was too risky to make the bigger investments in camps and to market them internationally. The only way to grow this into a sustainable business was to get some sort of exclusive access to the rivers we fished.

So, what did you do?

- I’ll spare you the long version. Here’s the short one: I hooked up with a guy from Greenland Tourism and Business Council, who also believed that concessions on some rivers was the right

We already knew of one river north of Sisimiut with a reputation for really big fish

way to grow fishing tourism in Greenland. He asked me to write our thoughts on how to implement concessions, which I did in November 2008. From there on, it took eight long years and a couple of changing governments in Greenland before the law on concessions was finally voted through. On January 1st, 2017 it came into effect and I take some pride in recognizing a lot of my initial thoughts in what is now the law.

Nice! And then you got the concessions on your rivers and built the lodge on one of them?

- No, you can’t apply for the concessions unless you live in Greenland. So, our partners in Greenland applied for what we believed was the best three rivers, and with our history of operating camps there together, they got them. With a more secure future, they also decided to build the Erfalik Lodge, replacing our tent camp on the river in 2019. We run the fishing program at the lodge in July and August, and they then use it for heliskiing, corporate events and wilderness tourism during spring and autumn.

For 2020, we had plans for a serious upgrade on the tent camps but Covid got in the way. Instead, we did it in 2022: bigger tents, wooden platforms, and a camp shower.

“The three best rivers”? But you only started out with two, right?

- Yes, we started out with Erfalik and Napiarissat, both south of Sisimiut. And then, when the talks of concessions started, we got busy scouting for a couple of seasons, to make sure we didn’t miss out on anything.

By then, we already knew of one river north of Sisimiut with a reputation for really big fish but it was closed to fishing, allegedly because it had been fished too hard with nets. So, we scouted a number of other rivers but didn’t find any nearly as good as what we already had.

Then, the river up north opened for fishing, and we scouted it in 2008. To this day, I still wonder why it was closed for fishing but I have a theory ...

Later, they also started going for foam flies. It was epic!

Which is?

- The first time we fished this river, three of us were camping at the mouth and fished the lower parts of the river during the first evening and the following morning. And we caught one char in some eight hours of fishing. The river was just empty of fish!

It wasn’t until early afternoon on the second day - after having fished our way some three kilometres upriver – that we caught a few more fish. And as we moved further upstream, we started seeing lots of really big fish in the pools. They weren’t easy but we eventually found a fly that worked and soon had crazy good fishing. Later, they also started going for foam flies. It was epic!

Sorry, I digress … My theory is that some biologists had been checking out the lower parts of the river in season, had found it completely empty of fish, and decided to close it for five years to give the chars a chance to bounce back. We now know that the char on this river run straight through the lower parts without resting.

I know it sounds a bit far-fetched but then again, what else could it be? The char is a super-slow growing species and if the river had really been fished out, there is just no way that we could come in after a five-year-ban and find a huge run of really big fish up to 6-7 kilos in the river! Even char of half that size – of which there were a lot – would be at least ten years old, probably more. And during our first full season, our guests landed char up to 8,3 kilos. I don’t know of any other river in Greenland with fish of that size. Anyway, that’s the story of the third camp, now known as Camp North.

And instead of using the name of the river, you called it Camp North so others wouldn’t discover it?

- That was probably part of the reason, but another reason was that the name of the river is Eqalugsugssuit. That’s a bit too tongue-twisting for most of us. So even now, with a concession on the river, we stick to Camp North.

Greenland is huge – there must be hundreds of rivers with Arctic char? The potential for fishing tourism must be enormous?

- I don’t know how many rivers in Greenland that hold a population of sea run Arctic char. I doubt anyone knows, but I guess it could be well into the hundreds. However, you have to take into consideration that the vast majority of them fall under at least one, and most often both, of these categories:

They are either too short, or too small to offer interesting fishing and/or they are too far away from Greenland’s very limited infrastructure to be within reach for a fishing trip on a reasonable budget. While there is definitely potential to grow fishing tourism in Greenland, I wouldn’t call it enormous.

What’s the flyfishing scene in Greenland like?

- It’s somewhere between super small and non-existent!

It’s a short season of around two months, and there is no local interest in fly fishing, so don’t expect to find any guides, fly shops, or as much as a spool of tippet anywhere in Greenland.

While we are still the leading operator of flyfishing camps in Greenland, our success has obviously inspired others to follow. Apart from the three rivers we run, a dozen of other rivers in Greenland have now been appointed as concession rivers. I think around half of them now have someone running a fishing program on them.

What about DIY (Do It Yourself) fishing in Greenland?

- With a national fishing license, you can fish any river in Greenland that’s not under concession. Some tourists take advantage of this while on a hiking trip, others as part of day-long group excursions. I think the fishing you can find this way appeals more to the occasional or opportunistic angler.

Theoretically, you could also find your own secret river, far away

from civilization with good fishing and no one else around. But getting there would be costly, unless you are a bigger group to share the costs of a boat transfer.

What differentiates the three camps you operate?

- All three rivers are lake fed, always running clear, and with plenty of water to keep you busy for a week.

Erfalik has very varied fishing, from wider slow running parts to really fast water with small pockets and everything in between. Sometimes, we also find great fishing in the lakes there. And then there is obviously the comforts of staying in a lodge that sets it apart from everything else.

Our two tent camps offer similar facilities. Camp North holds the biggest char and offer great variation. However, it is a little more demanding because you need to hike longer distances. Napiarissat is a great river with easy hiking but it is a little shorter than the other two so we have decided to do slightly smaller groups there, and mostly use it for groups of friends booking together.

The carp can be sight-fished in shallow water, providing nerve-wracking excitement and drag-burning runs.

The streamers are now smaller and lighter dressed than in the early years

You mentioned earlier that the fish were “stupid” when you arrived. Has the fishing changed since you started fishing these rivers?

- Yes, I think it has. Even if the runs of char on each of these three rivers are counted in the thousands, I would say they have wised up. We still fish foam flies a great deal, and when the fishing is on it’s hard to beat. But when they don’t produce, we fish streamers, nymphs and occasionally dry flies in many different ways.

The streamers are now smaller and lighter dressed than in the early days, and in general the fishing has gotten a little bit more technical – which many of us find a lot more interesting and challenging. We still catch plenty of fish but you reap greater rewards if you think about what you are doing and fish your flies well.

What other fish swims are in these rivers?

- Sticklebacks, and nothing else!

Really? No salmon?

- Really. Even if there are a lot of Atlantic salmon in the ocean around Greenland, they are mainly European and North American fish that have migrated there to feed. They don’t run the rivers in Greenland.

Actually, there is one river (Kapisillit River, ed.) in the southwest of Greenland that has a small population of Atlantic salmon. But they are genetically different compared to the

other salmon stocks found in the North Atlantic.

The run is estimated to be a mere 300 fish and Greenland’s salmon are now red-listed.

How do you see the future of fly fishing in Greenland?

- Overall, quite bright. In popularity, I think we have only seen the beginning. Fortunately, we got concessions relatively early in the process, which should, somewhat, protect the fishing on the most attractive rivers from being over exploited. But I also think it is now time to take the next steps in protecting this unique resource for future generations.

The most obvious step is to limit the netting of char in the ocean. They have very little commercial value so they are worth so much more in a river than in a net.

While we have our own rules - such as only allowing barbless single hooks, practising catch & release, and closing the camps on Sept. 1st to give the fish some peace around spawning time, there are still no official laws protecting the fishery. There is no minimum size, no catch limit, and no closed season.

Personally, I would like to see not only a minimum size but also a maximum size implemented, a strict limit on what can be harvested, and a closed season allowing the fish to spawn without any disturbances.

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THE SEYCHELLES DIVINE PROVIDENCE

Providence. The far western Seychelles. As remote as it gets. 438 miles south-west of the capital, Mahe and about a million miles from anywhere. This wild and stunningly beautiful atoll was first discovered in 1501 by Portuguese explorer Joao da Nova, and it is just about as pristine now as it was five hundred long year ago.

The Seychelles flats are pristine, and there are numerous fish species to target. Among the most sought-after are bonefish, triggerfish, permit, giant trevally, bluefin trevally, bumphead parrotfish, and milkfish.

Bonefish are all around on the Providence flats, but when you need one for a grand slam, they suddenly go missing.

The sun was sinking low as my friend and guide Wesley De Klerk scanned the horizon. The light was fading, and peering into the water of the flats was becoming increasingly difficult. Apart from a big curious guitar shark that ambled off to our left, the endless flats seemed uncharacteristically devoid of life.

It was the last hour of the last day, and as a big grey cloud rolled in front of the sun it was looking like our quest for a “Seychelles Slam” was going to end in failure after all.

I had no right to complain. We’d had a good day. A great day. I’d wrestled three big brutish Giant Trevally off of the wild flats, and also managed to fool a gorgeous yellow margin triggerfish into snaffling my crab fly. Yet the bonefish – normally the easiest part of any slam – had eluded us.

In truth, perhaps we’d cut things just a little too fine. The trevally action had been irresistible, and had kept us busy late into the afternoon. Our trip from Cerf Island in the South, up to the north end of the atoll to the wide shallow flats where the big Providence bonefish like to grub for crabs and mantis shrimps is a long one.

By the time we’d arrived, the sun was already low in the sky, and now, the clouds crowding the horizon threatened to destroy what chance we had. Then, suddenly, just as I was contemplating throwing in the towel and winding up, a last

golden shaft of light pierced the big thunderhead gathering way off to the West.

The flats lit up, and Wesley was instantly galvanised. The tide had turned, and in the low golden light, hazy, indistinct shapes were suddenly visible in the knee-deep water.

“There,” hissed Wesley, “ten o’clock, twenty metres going left”

I saw it – a big singleton bonefish - but moving fast and going away - perhaps already spooked.

Wesley and I had argued about fly choice – earlier in the week, my pal Dom Quinlan had given me an absurdly garish bright orange flexo-crab fly tied for him by master tyer Jonno Makim, and despite my scepticism, the fly had proved utterly irresistible to bonefish and triggers alike.

Wesley wasn’t convinced and wanted to try something more orthodox and more subtle, but I had huge confidence in what had gained notoriety on the mothership as the “Tandoori Crab”, and stubbornly stuck with my talisman.

It was a tough shot, into a stiff breeze, but I pitched the fly well beyond the fish and just to its left. As it landed, I felt a surge of confidence. It was a good presentation and the fish would surely eat it. But no.

My prize sidled away, without giving my offering so much as a cursory glance. I heard a barely suppressed groan from behind me and felt Wesley’s frustration – it’s always a big call to ignore your guide’s instincts. Especially when they are as experienced and as talented as Wesley.

I stripped the fly back – perhaps we might get one last chance and I decided to do the right thing, and swap to Wesley’s suggested classic Gotcha pattern.

There are several species of triggerfish, but the titan and yellow-margin (pictured) triggerfish are the most sought-after.

However, even as I retrieved the fly, Wes was calling another shot: there, thirty yards to my left, two barely discernable shadows were zig-zagging across the flat towards us.

No time to change. I lengthened the line – good shot – the crab landed gently just ahead of the lead fish.

There is something extremely special about fishing for bonefish.

The simple stripped-down visual thrill of watching them accelerate in ultra-shallow water, and seeing them tip up to eat the fly is - and will always be – one of the great sights in saltwater fly-fishing.

The lead fish shot forward, and its tail broke the surface. I knew instinctively that it had inhaled the fly.

I strip-set the hook and the line sizzled off of the reel as the bonefish made its signature lightning dash across the wide white flats, throwing up a roostertail of spray that sparkled in the last guttering rays of sunshine.

There are fewer bigger kicks in fly-fishing than completing a Grand Slam, and at Providence, there are any number of ways to do it.

One way is a GT, a trigger and a bone, and closing the deal would make for the perfect end to the trip.

I played my prize with exaggerated care, but finally, Wesley had the fish in his grasp - one last dazzling silver Providence bonefish to end the week on a high.

A few quick pictures and then high fives spluttered laughter, and cold Seybrew beers in the dying embers of a special day.

There are fewer bigger kicks in fly fishing than completing a grand slam “ ”

Bluefin trevally are absolutely gorgous. They don’t get as much attention as their bigger siblings; the giant trevally, but they’re just as fun to catch.

I first came to Providence in 2007. Back then, it had barely seen a fly-fisherman. Just as I arrived in Mahe, the Seychelles’ capital, a powerful cyclone had all but flattened the outlying island, and we spent three frustrating days in the capital, waiting to fly out.

Finally we got the all-clear, but when we arrived at Farquar, the base used as the starting point for the long sail to Providence, the sea looked treacherous and forbidding. The long trip by boat was a torrid crossing. We battled through a savage storm, replete with St Elmo’s fire on the metal masts of our big schooner, but finally, our ordeal was over. Was it worth it? You bet. What a place we found when we finally arrived.

cific bonefish (Albula glossodonta) come ghosting onto this broad white canvas. While many – including myself – often get fixated on chasing the bigger, more exotic species of the atoll, the bonefishing here is simply superlative.

The fish are of an excellent average size, with a bona fide ten pound fish a genuine possibility. On the pristine and unblemished white sand, fish can be spotted from vast distances, and hunting them down is immensely absorbing.

It is some of the very best bonefishing that I have ever experienced. The bones don’t have the shallow flats all to themselves. Three distinct species of triggerfish forage around the skirts and drop-offs, ferreting out crabs and demolishing them in short order with their formidable dentistry.

Be warned! Triggers are tricky customers and are not always easy to fool. They are often dubbed as “Permit Light”, by the guides, and catching one takes guile and cunning. These wonderful fly rod adversaries are remarkable in that they can swim backwards. Watching them approach a fly before backing off nervously and then – if you’re lucky – coming back for a second look, is one of the most addictive and intriguing challenges on the Providence flats.

Providence was a fly-fishing wonderland. It had – and still has – just about everything. The wide sand flats on the northeast side of the atoll are rich, abundant feeding grounds, and when the tide starts to rise, big, lithe indo-pa-

Hooking them is the easy part – keeping them away from all that leader-shredding coral is no mean feat, and even then, there’s every chance that they may just bite your premium forged steel hook clean in half.

Triggers are triggy customers and not always easy to fool “ ”

When fishing Providence, one lives on board a comfortable mothership.

Milkfish are among the most powerful fish in the ocean. They fight like crazy and have the power and tenacity to go on, and on, and on...

The main triggerfish targets are the Yellow Margin (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus) and the Titan, Giant or Moustache triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens), both of which populate the Providence flats in numbers. However, perhaps the most bewitching of all is their little cousin, the Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus aculeatus).

This stunning little work of art is – to my mind at least – infinitely more beautiful than anything its genius namesake ever conjured up. If you find one foraging around a coral head, scale down to a tiny fleeing crab pattern and, if you can manage to dupe it, take time out to simply admire this breathtaking little jewel of a creature.

Another remarkable fish to call Providence home is the Bumphead Parrotfish. (Bolbometopon muricatum) These enormous hulking freaks amble around the flats, using their powerful beaks to feed on algae-covered corals. A big school can make short work of a small reef, and contribute to the natural but significant bio-erosion of the ocean’s corals.

Creeping up to a feeding school is fascinating. If you are stealthy enough, you can get very close, and watching a large school of these big brutes placidly grazing on the coral like a herd of cows is spellbinding. Tie on a small Velcro coin-crab and pitch it very accurately in front of your chosen target. If your shot is a good one, you may be in for an astonishing hour-long tussle with one of these curious but deceptively powerful creatures, which can range to an eye-watering 100 pounds and more.

Catching a

etitles

Off the edge of the flats, the celebrated milkfish ( Chanos chanos ) offers another exceptionally exciting target. When the wind drops away, these fish will school up and feed on the floating rafts of algae hovering in the upper strata of the water column. Dead drifting a “milky dream” algae representation into their midst can often lead to an epic battle with one of these fish. Chanos chanos are reputed to be the only species that do not suffer from lactic acid build-up, and thus seem never to tire. This is another species that – once hooked – can gobble up a large but unforgettable part of your day.

Indo-Pacific Permit (Trachinotus blochii) are scarce but do occasionally make a showing, and they are perhaps the toughest target on the Providence flats – every bit as tricky to tempt as their Caribbean cousins. In recent years, James Christmas’s brilliant sand prawn, and the cunningly conceived Alphlexo Crab pattern have made these fish just slightly easier to dupe. Just slightly.

They are still infuriatingly capricious, and refuse even the most perfect presentation with depressing regularity. Catching one entitles you to a mile-wide smile, safe in the knowledge that you will be “belle of the ball” on the mothership tonight.

A bewildering and vibrant kaleidoscope of other species all compete for your attention on Providence’s vast flats and drop-offs – stunningly beautiful Bluefin Trevally, big Maori Wrasse, monster Barracuda, and any number of spectacularly colourful grouper and snapper, not to mention big pelagic brutes like sailfish and wahoo, lurking just a few hundred metres beyond the drop-off.

However, undoubtedly the biggest draw is Caranx Ignobilis - the Giant Trevally – big brawny hoodlums that maraud onto the flats, charging down a well-presented fly with primal aggression that just never gets old. Tackling GTs is not for the faint of heart – these apex bruisers will head for the nearest coral head every time, so do up your drag and hold on tight. The first few seconds of the fight is one of the most exhilarating moments in all of fly-fishing. You will simply never forget the first time that your fly line rockets up out of the water, and your big saltwater reel starts to shriek in protest as that big powerful brute goes bulldozing off across the flats looking for something sharp on which to break your leader and your heart.

Protect your rod by leaning into the fish with the butt of your twelve weight rod, and pull as hard as you dare. Landing your first Giant Trevally is an unforgettable thrill, but for the novice, the violence and power of these fish can be almost frightening. If its your first ‘Caranx’ then remember not to “high-stick” the rod, and in the heat of battle, pay special attention to the advice of your guide.

When fly fishing for bonefish, it’s important to always have a GT rod ready. The apex predators will show up when you least expect them to.

The Providence guides have caught hundreds of these incredibly powerful fish, and they know exactly what to do. Put your trust in them, and you should soon be holding up your first GT for a quick picture. While many believe that a true GIANT Trevally has to be over a metre long, every one is precious. Enjoy them all, and handle them with the care and respect they deserve.

In truth, it is impossible to describe the endless thrills and spills that Providence can offer in a few short words. However, rest assured that Tim Babich, Wesley de Klerk, Brendan Becker, Nic Isabelle and all the excellent and hugely likeable Flycastaway guides that know and love this little corner of paradise will show you fishing that is as exhilarating as it is varied.

If you love to fly fish in salt water, do what you have to: beg, borrow or steal your way to this magical fishery. As you first step onto the hard sand flats take a few moments to simply enjoy the unsullied beauty of this beguiling tropical wilderness.

Ok, snap out of it…now comes the hard part: trying to figure out what you want to catch first.

permit

you to a mile-wide smile

1) Bumphead parrotfish are otherwordly. They come up on the flats in big schools, and once hooked they wreak havoc. Landing one is an achievement.

2) Barracuda are also found on the flats and along the reef edges. They’re aggressive and explosive predators with razorsharp teeth designed to slash prey into sliced meat.

3) Giant trevally are the gangsters of the flats, and in the Seychelles you can catch monsters in the skinniest of water. Once hooked, hold on for dear life and hope for the best.

Contact

Matt Harris has been fishing and photographing the Seychelles’ magical fisheries since 2006.

As well as Providence, Matt has fished all of the other celebrated destination atolls in the Seychelles: Alphonse, Astove, Farquar and Cosmoledo. Matt knows each of these destinations well and can tell you exactly what each has to offer. If you are interested in joining him on a trip to one of these special fisheries, contact him at mattharris@ mattharris.com

You can read all about fishing these and many other amazing destinations in Matt’s new book “The Fish of a Lifetime” via the link at: http://www.thefishofalifetime.com

US MADE IDAHO BUILT

THE PURSUIT OF INSPIRED DESIGN

LIGHTWEIGHT RODS ONLY BALANCE WITH LIGHTWEIGHT REELS

For 25 years, Waterworks-Lamson has set a bold benchmark for innovative fly reel architecture. Large arbor, lightweight, sealed systems, zero maintenance, advanced materials, state of the art machining, innovative and enviable styling—the list is long. The thing to remember is we were there in the beginning—pushing the envelope, refining ideas, changing how people thought about reels—and we’ve never stopped. What’s that saying? “Plenty of time to sleep when you’re dead.”

Full reel range available at www.flyfisheurope.com/ww-l

Centerfire is a double-edged sword perfectly suited for both single- and doublehanded fly fishing for Atlantic salmon and seatrout in torrential rivers as well as adrenaline-choked sight-fishing on shimmering flats and bluewater dropoffs. Centerfire is built to blend the strongest and most reliable structural and functional elements from over a quarter century of reel design—IPX8 waterproof rated Cobalt drag system, power arm frame, deep cross section radial spool spokes, large easy grip fluted drag knob and hard anodize to name a few. Centerfire has everything you need in a bomb proof saltwater reel and foregoes what you don’t all at a reasonable price. All drag components manufactured in the U.S.A and assembled in Boise, Idaho.

BOMBPROOF DRAG

FULL FRAME

The silky smooth drag system lets you handle big chromers in heavy currents - and it has the stopping power to prevent explosive predatory flats fish from making it to the craggy reef edge.

SPECIFICATIONS

The performance benchmark for a fly reel is retrieve rate per ounce. If you haven’t thought about it before, think about it now: there’s no downside to high retrieve rate other than extra weight. As an example, consider the 2021 Gen 6 Litespeed: CNC machined with material distributed artfully along critical load paths, stable and strong, so light you might forget it’s there, but beautiful enough to make you remember it is. The marine version of Litespeed (LSM) is equipped with a hybrid drag system, fixed spindle, large heat-wicking conical surfaces, click stop drag knob. The LSM incorporates close tolerance composite bearings, and comes equipped with a linear spring set optimized for each reel size. It holds an IPX8 waterproof rating to 100 ft.

LIGHTER & STRONGER

L ITESPEED M-SERIES [ ]

A super arbor format, lightest-weight-in-class, space frame construction saltwater fly reel with the IPX8 certified waterproof Cobalt hybrid drag system.

SPECIFICATIONS

F

Use the force. Even lighter than the original, the Force SL Series II breaks its own record as the lightest machined reel on the market. This evolution in the Force Superlight reel lineage includes an even larger arbor to increase line retrieval and decrease weight. Plus it has an enhanced CNC machined structural development and more fluid, refined styling. Since coming onto the scene in 1997, the Force reels have pursued what we feel is the Holy Grail of fly reel performance: delivering the highest possible ratio of retrieve rate to reel weight. To this end, while other super arbor reels add weight in order to gain speed, Force reels maintain their featherweight specification by being pure muscle and bone.

BACK IN A FLASH [ ]

SPECIFICATIONS

For the lightest rods and the most finicky of trout on everything from dry flies to nymphs and streamers.

US MADE IDAHO BUILT

A VERY limited re-run of the legendary ULA Force and Purist fly reels that set new standards for lightweight, large arbour fly reel design when they were introduced almost three decades ago. The Force features a super-slick brake system that protects the lightest of tippets, whereas the Purist comes with a click-pawl drag.

The basic parameters - weight, retrieve rate, line storage, drag torque, ergonomics - each must be balanced against the other to build a high-performing reel, and collectively provide the basis for the design. By far the most important of these are weight and retrieve rate, because the ratio of the two define what is considered a large arbor reel. Expressed simply, think of these two parameters as retrieve rate per ounce, and hence the Holy Grail of fly reel design is an architecture which yields the lightest structure possible for a given diameter, without sacrificing reliability and durability. Enter the completely re-designed Speedster reels. They feature an enhanced spool machining technique, focusing material only where it’s needed - the reason why both are significantly lighter and higher performing than their predecessors. But importantly, the form, the styling of each, clearly flows from the same place; allowing the dimensions of structure and function to inspire beauty.

We’ve always believed that form shouldn’t just follow function, but be inspired by it, and that good design emanates from a harmonious expression of both.

S PEEDSTER S-SERIES BALANCING ACT [ ]

SPECIFICATIONS

G URU S-SERIES

Steadfast and stylish, Guru has long set a standard for enlightened excellence as a rugged, fully USA-machined, and ultra-reliable reel at a great price. By increasing the arbor to a larger diameter and making the spool narrower—all the while decreasing its total weight and parts—Guru S takes it to another level. An enhanced spool machining technique—focusing material only where it’s needed—makes this version significantly lighter and higher performing than its predecessor. We’ve opened the porting to reduce weight and improve line drying, and integrated the counterbalance. We even introduced a curved cross-section for structural stability. Taking your game to fishing nirvana, this will be your Guru for life.

ENLIGHTENED

SPECIFICATIONS

The Guru S series builds on the highly popular Guru reel encorporating placid and organic design features that, not only reduce weight, but also add in strength in the most important parts of the reel structure.

“

Remix shares the same drag technology as all of our more expensive reels. Majority U.S. manufactured and assembled in Boise, Idaho. Remix HD is the Heavy Duty spey and switch variant of Remix, incorporating a full cage design to capture thin diameter running lines that are notorious for escaping through spool/line guard gaps. Majority U.S. manufactured and assembled in Boise, Idaho. Remix 3 pack offers the same extreme value in the Heavy Duty spey/switch variant of Remix: one reel and two spools in a nylon carrying case.

PRESSURE CAST [ ]

Remix marries the best of pressure cast technologies and CNC machining to deliver a durable frame in a hard bright finish coupled with a cast aluminum spool with u-shaped arbor.

SPECIFICATIONS

Liquid is a pressure cast reel boasting full radius compound curves, near zero-radius inside corners and 100% U.S. drag components. The best value-for-money on the market. Majority U.S. manufactured and assembled in Boise, Idaho. Liquid 3 pack includes one reel and two spare spools in a nylon carrying case offering ease of interchangeability at a killer price.

QUALITY ON A BUDGET [ ]

SPECIFICATIONS

If you’re looking for a spare reel or just the right quality-to-price ratio for getting started fly fishing, there’s no other reel on the market like the Liquid.

DIY in Mexico MY THOUGHTS ON PERMIT

This year’s permit-trip was no different than all the previous ones. I had lots of time to think about how to act and sound like a pro – only to find out that, sometimes, the permit are the real pros. So, here are my thoughts from two weeks of getting skunked in Mexico.

The day fish followed all day long and never I came tight From my experience, the permit you really want are the ones that decide what to do the very instant, they see your fly: The ones that act like jacks and come rushing in. They’re usually the ones that will eat your fly. Nothing is worse than “the thinkers” – the clever and suspicious ones that look at your fly from various angles, slow moving- left to right. In the end, these fish tend not to eat; either because you run out of line to retrieve or because they see you.

Even the ones that spook and scatter before the fly hits the surface are better than “the thinkers”. At least they don’t waste your time; time you could have spent casting at fish that are actually “catchable”.

The day I spooked them all

In any given school of fish there are typically a few that are more likely to chase and inhale your crab fly than all the others. If you can pull two or three fish out of the school, your odds of hooking up improve. If the one in the back is the only one that sees your fly, it’s very unlikely that it will leave the school to follow it – as there is safety in numbers. The ones in the middle are usually better.

Casting to the middle of a school of permit obviously involves the risk of spooking the whole school, so cast to the edge of the school instead. When done correctly, two or three permit might see your fly – maybe a few more. Having other fish by its side usually does something to a permit’s confidence. And it dramatically increases the chances of it grabbing your fly. Casting to the guy in front is tempting, but it’s usually a rather bad idea. It increases the amount of fish that will, potentially, see your fly – but when that lead fish spooks (which it often does)…. Well, then the whole school will be gone along with it.

Sometimes I think of smart things while fishing for permit. As I walk a beach-side flat for the fourth consecutive hour without seeing any fish, I start thinking of deep thingsthings I should have probably written down then and there. If only I’d had pen and paper.

How to DIY (Do It Yourself) in Yucatan

The Yucatan is hard wading. Traversing muddy flats on top of uneven limestone is exhausting to say the least. Good wading boots and even better ancles are mandatory.

The use of pack-rafts is a total game changer. I now use packrafts to effectively move between flats, across depressions, and through deep mangrove lakes and - channels - areas that have put me too close to crocodiles too many times. After less than an hour’s worth of fishing, you’ll realize it’s a perfect gear-, camera-, and spare rod storage solution too.

Every angler that has ever been successful on a flat knows the hassle of getting a decent picture of that elusive 7-pound bonefish. The task of retrieving your camera (with a foggy lens) from the bottom of your moist roll-top when you’re half-a-kilometer from dry land - in butt cheek-deep water on a muddy flat - is daunting. Well, just pull the pack-raft in close using the rope around your waist. The camera is right there: Snug between your big fly box and an ice-chest with a couple of beers in it.

Not a numbers game

Everything must come together when fishing the beach side for permit. Especially when you’re on foot. Weather, wind, tides,… everything. The fish need to be in a “happy” mood too. They’re far in between – the days when the permit fishing is “ON”, but such days do occur - and when they do, you should fish from dusk till dawn. Dinner can wait. The next day will probably bring deteriorating weather, so keep at it until dark. Or at least until you’re unable to see the crocodiles, jaguars, or cartels lurking ominously around.

There are countless cool species to catch in the Caribbean. If the permit have gone incognito, just leave them and catch something else. Triggerfish, boxfish, bonefish, barracuda, snook, pufferfish, jacks, and tarpon can all be found on the flats. They’re all a hundred times easier to catch, but they all offer different types of interesting challenges - along with a welcome break from the masochism and heartbreak of permit fishing.

Personally, I think the barracuda is a very underrated fish on the fly. The jack too!

Some days

“

The use of pack-rafts is a total game changer

ULTRALIGHT HELICAL CORE

We start with our UHC technology of an ultra-light helical core to support hoop strength and stabilise the blank in flex.

AMPLIFIED NANO RESIN

This is overlaid with high modulus fibres reinforced with our amplified nano resin which reinforces the blank without dampening the graphite fibres.

LOW MASS SCRIM

Primal’s low mass scrim technology maximises hoop strength without dampening the rod via adding additional weight like traditional glass scrims.

LONGITUDINAL FIBRE ALIGNMENT

We use custom off axis prepregs that, when rolled, ensure the important longitudinal fibres are aligned along the length of the blank. The result is more feel, improved energy flow throughout the cast and lightning quick recovery rates.

As anglers, we see

WWW.MANICTACKLEPROJECT.COM

INSTINCTIVE PERFORMANCE DEFINITIVE STYLE

INSTINCTIVE PERFORMANCE DEFINITIVE STYLE

7

// 41 rod configurations // European specs

FLY FISHING IS INHERENTLY A PRIMAL PURSUIT. The hunting of the prey, the thrill of the stalk, the unsaid battle that commences once your quarry is hooked. It’s our connection to the outdoors, it’s guttural, and it’s within. Our deep connection with fly fishing has shaped the tools, and our base instincts drive the passion that goes into creating Primal fly rods. Primal Rod Co evolved because we saw there was a space to be filled and we had a relentless drive to create the solution. The brief was simple. Create a fly rod that possesses soul, looks amazing, performs even better, and feels light in hand. And most importantly, at a price that is accessible to all. Not designed by product developers in lab coats, Primal fly rods are the tangible results of decades of hard earned fly fishing expertise. If you could catch fly fishing lightning in a bottle, this is it. That’s what makes Primal different.

FLY TYING:

HOGAN’S CREATURE

Crayfish are a favourite prey item for zander, perch, carp, catfish, black bass, and big trout - and they can all be targeted with a fly rod right here in Eruope. Tying imitations of crayfish has long-standing traditions in the US, and here is a great crayfish pattern developed by Hogan Brown.

Materials//

Hook: AHREX TP650 Bent Shank Streamer Hook

Thread: Veevus 50 D GSP

Butt Dubbing: Cohen’s Carp Dub- Crazy Orange

Legs and antenna: Spinner bait Skirt (RubberLegs)

Claws: Hareline Shimmer Rabbit Strips – Crawfish Orange with Silver

Body: EP Minnow Brush- 1.5” UV Speckled Brown

Head: FlyMen Fish Skull Helmet Brown Small with UV Fly Finish Thin, UV Colored Fly Finish – Hot Orange

Tie in the first of two claws using Hareline Shimmer Rabbit Strips in Crawfish Orange with Silver.

short enough to allow them to splay open when the fly is stripped.

Repeat step 4 on the opposite side, creating a pair of claws.

Take three pairs of rubber legs and tie them in front of the rabbit strips. Figure 8 the thread between the legs like you would with a stonefly pattern to help separate the legs.

Apply Loon Outdoors UV Fly Finish before adding a Small Flymen Fish Skull Sculpin Helmet in Brown to the front of the fly. Apply Loon Outdoors UV Colored Fly Finish in Hot Orange behind the helmet on the bottom of the fly.

Crayfish are freshwater crustaceans that are also known as crawfish or crawdads depending on location. Crayfish will spend most of their lives hiding underneath rocks and debris for protection from predators as they make for an excellent meal for many fish, including trout. On occasion, they can be too big of a food source for some, but larger fish can easily take down a crayfish.

When startled, crayfish will flee by using their tails to propel them backwards. This evasive movement can often trigger a predatory response from trout, however they can also make for an easy meal while immobilized during the molting process which makes both dead drifting and stripping crayfish patterns effective techniques for pursuing these large trout.

Hogan’s Creature is a small, simple crayfish streamer that is great for Spring and early-Summer black bass as well as any other crayfish-eating fish species in your local waters - including zander, carp,

Introducing FlyLab Fly Reels...

The FlyLab range of reels are made with the goal of making fly fishing accessible to all while still being there with you as your skills grow.

VENGE

The FlyLab Venge reel has a point to prove - that you can be light and strong, stealthy yet quick, and humble but confident. (Available in sizes 5/6; 7/8)

• Sealed drag system with stainless and ceramic stacked drag for low start up inertia and high output

• Fully machined frame and spool from 6061 aircraft grade aluminium

Lightweight X-frame for reduced torque and optimum stability

Type 2 anodised for durability and corrosion resistance

GLIDE

The FlyLab Glide reels are at home in a saltwater environment or tiny spring creek, and synonymous with the Fly Lab collection as they punch well above their weight while giving so much bang for your buck. (Available in Black 9/10; Orange 7/8; Olive 5/6; Gunsmoke 3/4)

Fully machined frame and spool from 6061 aircraft grade aluminium

• Large surface area disc drag design

Type 2 anodised for durability and corrosion resistance

• High impact anodising colours

FOCUS

The FlyLab Focus is a one-size custom european nymphing reel designed to balance longer rods, not catch a euro line in the frame and spin freely for fast retrieves.

• Fully machined frame and spool from 6061 aircraft grade aluminium

Fully caged frame design to improve balance and prevent thin euro lines from slipping between spool and cage Free running disc drag system so reel can be spun to collect line without having to wind the handle

• Low capacity v cut spool design to compensate for low diameter Euro lines

Designed and developed in New Zealand

ACID

When you’re wanting that extra drag output to put some Acid on those big fish then this reel is a solid starter. (Available in Black & Silver 5/6; 7/8; 9/10)

• Sealed drag system with stainless and ceramic stacked drag for low start up inertia and high output

• Machine finished Die Cast Aluminium frame and spool

• V Cut spool for added line capacity

Low profile reel foot for improved balance

EXO

If reliability is your middle name then this may be the reel for you. Well priced, super sweet design and ever dependable, the FlyLab Exo reel has become a staple friend for many anglers. (Available in sizes 5/6; 7/8)

• Machine finished Die Cast Aluminium frame and spool

Large surface area disc drag design

• Soft touch handle

SURGE

When you just need a functional tool to get the job done then grab a FlyLab Surge and get out there. Lightweight, tough, and slick looking - the Surge is the price pointed reel that punches well above its weight. (Available in 5/6 & 7/8)

Die-cast aluminum frame and spool

Vented large arbor design

• Soft-touch handle

LAPIS™ LENSES

proprietary lens Technology

In comparison to the top 5 fishing sunglass manufacturers, Bajio blocks significantly more bad blue light than anyone else, and the same or better as the other high performance lenses when it comes to harsh yellow—all while allowing in good light and brilliant color.

In the rainbow of light spectrum, harsh yellow light interferes with color definition, ultraviolet (UV) light contributes to cataract development and skin cancer, and bad blue light scatters when it enters the eye resulting in haze and visual blur. Bajío lenses are purpose built to combat these negative effects from the sun’s rays.

Our eyes have specialized color receptors called cones that only process red, blue and green light (RGB). The science behind making the clearest lenses on the planet is to manage the light that stimulates the cones for optimum visual clarity. Using proprietary LAPIS™ technology developed by our optical experts, Bajío lenses block 95% of bad blue light (up to 445 nm), the majority of harsh yellow light (at its peak of 580 nm), and 100% of UV light. The result: No more hazy days, no more color interference and better protection of the eyes.

SPECTRUM OF LIGHT RAYS FROM THE SUN

LAPIS™ TECHNOLOGY BLOCKS BAD LIGHT RAYS

BLOCKS 90% OF HARSH YELLOW AT 580 NM FOR HIGH COLOR DEFINITION OF RED, GREEN AND BLUE

BLOCKS 95% OF BAD BLUE LIGHT UP TO 445 NM: NO SCATTER, NO HAZE. NO BLUR, PROTECTS THE RETINA

LAPIS™ TECHNOLOGY TRANSMITS GOOD LIGHT RAYS

TRANSMITS RED LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION & COLOR DEFINITION

TRANSMITS GREEN LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION AND COLOR DEFINITION

GLARE-BUSTING POLARIZATION

BLOCKS 100% OF UV LIGHT PROTECTS THE EYE AND SURROUNDING SKIN

TRANSMITS GOOD BLUE LIGHT FOR COLOR DEFINITION & EXCEPTIONAL CLARITY

SEE MORE FISH & BOTTOM STRUCTURE WITHOUT EYE FATIGUE

TRANSMITS RED LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION AND COLOR DEFINITION

BLOCKS 90% OF HARSH YELLOW AT 580 NM FOR HIGH COLOR DEFINITION OF RED, GREEN AND BLUE TRANSMITS GREEN LIGHT FOR COLOR RECOGNITION AND COLOR DEFINITION

TRANSMITS GOOD BLUE LIGHT FOR COLOR DEFINITION AND EXCEPTIONAL CLARITY

BLOCKS 95% OF BAD BLUE LIGHT UP TO 445 NM: NO SCATTER - NO HAZE - NO BLUR - PROTECTS THE RETINA

BLOCKS 100% OF UV LIGHT - PROTECTS THE EYE AND SURROUNDING SKIN

LAPIS™ LENSES

Glare-busting polarization

When the sun’s powerful rays enter our atmosphere, they come at us in all directions, reflecting off every object they strike. When these rays hit water, they reflect strongly causing glare which not only interferes with our vision but also makes spotting fish nearly impossible. Before polarized sunglasses, traditional dark-tinted sunglasses were used to reduce the amount of light in all directions, but the glare was still there. With polarized lenses horizontal light rays are absorbed, but vertical light waves still pass through. Bajío lenses essentially work like venetian blinds to eliminate glare, increase depth perception and contour—so not only do you see things better in the water, but you also see things from further away on the water (a key technology for sight fishing).

light transmission

While polarization and bad light blocking are key lens technologies, understanding light transmission and base colors is also important in selecting the appropriate Bajío lens for specific light conditions and fishing environments. As mentioned above, one function of polarized lenses, is that they limit the amount of light that reaches the eye. Visual light transmission (VLT) measures just how much light enters the lens versus how much is blocked. If the light transmission of a lens is below 9-9.5%, they are not suitable for driving because they are too dark. Most sunglass lenses start around 10-11% percent transmission. Generally the blues, greens and darker colors will have very low light transmission made for high light situations. Then there are mirrors. Many polarized sunglasses intended for anglers also have mirror finishes. In addition to looking cool, these finishes also reduce light transmission by up to 2% and help manage annoying reflections from the water.

LAPIS™ LENSES

lens color = contrast

Designed to directly relate to light transmission, Bajío’s polarized sunglass lenses come in a wide range of colors and mirror finishes. The trick is understanding what colors work best for what conditions, or more accurately, what level of contrast is best for your fishing situation. For example, Gray-base colors are going to be very low contrast meaning everything appears as it does naturally, just darker. In the middle, between low and high contrast, are our Silver Mirror (copper base) and Rose Mirror (red base) lenses. The Rose Mirror lenses are a little bit brown and a little bit red. If you can only choose one pair, this is a solid middle-of-the-road option. On the other end of the spectrum, are high contrast lenses from the brown color family (which can range from brown to copper to amber to red). The more amount of red color in a lens, the more contrast. High contrast amber, copper, or rose based lenses work great for sight fishing and looking down into the water column to spot fish against the bottom, no matter the color of the water. We don’t build our lenses for watercolor, we build them for light conditions.

LAPIS™ LENSES

glass vs poly lenses

Bajío’s polarized sunglass lenses are made with either glass or polycarbonate. Which is the superior lens material? The short answer is both—each has its benefits that anglers can weigh based off a few factors. Glass is harder and offers mirrors within the lens that cannot be scratched, which is great for wild, action-packed battles. However, glass is heavier. Polycarbonate lenses are impact resistant, scratch resistant and lightweight, which makes a big difference for long days on the water. You can’t go wrong with either, but most anglers have a personal preference depending on what’s more important to them, lightweight or scratch-resistance.

LAPIS™ LENSES

lens colors

Baj í o lenses are designed to help you see clearly in all light conditions. Each lens color is created specifically to give the angler optimum performance in any environment and weather scenario.

MIRROR LENS COPPER LENS MEDIUM LIGHT CONDITIONS NO MIRROR / COPPER BASE VLT 14%

BLUE SILVER MIRROR MEDIUM LIGHT CONDITIONS SILVER MIRROR / COPPER BASE VLT 14%

ROSE MIRROR LENS LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS ROSE MIRROR / RED BASE VLT 16% VIOLET MIRROR LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS VIOLET MIRROR / RED BASE VLT 20% VIOLET LENS POLY ONLY

YELLOW MIRROR LENS

YELLOW MIRROR / RED BASE

VLT 22% GLASS ONLY

YELLOW LENS

LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS

NO MIRROR / RED BASE

VLT 26% GLASS ONLY

// ergo-textured rubber temple tips

ALL-DAY COMFORT

FRAMES MADE FROM PLANTS EASILY COMPOSTABLE STRONGER AND LIGHTER THAN PLASTIC DOES NOT HARM THE ENVIRONMENT

// KEEPER HOLES

INTEGRATED HOLES FOR YOUR KEEPER CABLES

// flex hinges

HIGHEST QUALITY

LIGHTWEIGHT

FLEXES IN-AND-OUT TO FIT YOUR FACE

// barrel hinges

HIGHEST QUALITY

LIGHTWEIGHT

STRONG

// vented rubber side shields

BLOCKS PERIPHERAL SUNLIGHT

PROMOTES AIRFLOW

KEEPS YOU COOL

// integrated sun ledge

INTEGRATED FRAME ELEMENT ON THE SIDES AND TOP OF THE LENS AREA THAT ALLOW THE FRAME TO BLOCK MORE

PERIPHERAL SUNLIGHT

MAXIMIZES GRIP

// 8-base wrap

FOLLOWS THE CONTOURS OF YOUR FACE TO BLOCK OUT THE MOST LIGHT

// 6-base wrap

CONTOURS SLIGHTLY LESS THAN AN 8-BASE BUT PROVIDES A MORE FASHION FORWARD LOOK

// vented rubber nose pads

ALL-DAY COMFORT

PROMOTES AIRFLOW

KEEPS YOU COOL

// ergo-textured rubber nose pads

ALL-DAY COMFORT

MAXIMIZES GRIP

// FRAME size

WE SIZE OUR FRAMES FROM HINGE TO HINGE FOR ALL FACE TYPES

// temple size

DIFFERENT SIZED TEMPLES WILL BLOCK MORE OR LESS LIGHT

* NOT ALL FRAMES HAVE ALL FEATURES

05

bales beach caballo boneville

You never know what the day will bring. When the fish are hitting, stay focused; if you can’t spot any action, take a siesta. Named after the infamous flat in Islamorada that’s a magnet for monster tarpon and square groupers, Bales Beach is ready for whatever the day has in store—be it the rush of a dawn fishing mission or casual afternoon tending the grill.

Spying on fish seems like a ridiculous way to spend your day. Until the thrill of the catch takes over and your reel is screaming as your line runs into the backing. Named after the town flat of Xcalak (pronounced ish-ka-lak) near the Belize border in Mexico (aka bone heaven), all it takes is a short walk and a wade to hook up in Boneville.

Transition effortlessly from the flats to the fiesta in the Caballo. Though they appear as the life of the party, their outstanding optics and technical details are up for the challenge of ticking off the feistiest fish. Crafted with a durable bio-based nylon made to stand up to years of heavy use.

nippers nato calda

Some guides have an easy style that masks a wealth of earned knowledge and experience. They’ve been there, done that, and loved every minute of it. They’re not trying to impress anyone— that’s simply how they live. The Calda is a classic frame that doesn’t try; it just looks cool just because it is. Named after the big flat off Key West Harbor where permit and barracuda roam in large numbers, see fish better in your Caldas.

Some folks seem to have a shortcut solution to untie every knot people get themselves into. When a motor or a mood dies, these folks step in, and before you know it everything is all good once again. Never idle, always ready to help, no problem they can’t solve. Put on the Nato, and maybe you’ll see things differently, too. Named after the man, the myth, the legend and the flat he called home as a kid in Xcala.

Leaving before dawn and staying out past last light. You don’t even have to wonder—your partner in crime with the Nippers is up for it. She’ll reschedule whatever meeting or event is in the way of a day on the boat with you or any other adventure. She’s always in. And her secret weapon—those shades named for the epic bonefish flat off of Abaco —will win you over and soon become part of your toolkit as well.

palometa roca piedra

In Mexico’s Ascension Bay, where schools of tailing permit come to play, the poised angler in the Palometa (Spanish for permit) is ready to slay—all day. Molded with our proprietary bio-based nylon offering an incredible strength to weight ratio, the lightweight Palometa offers serious comfort and extreme durability.

Named for a memorable flat we encountered on our odyssey expedition through the Yucatan near Campeche, Piedra elicits images of red and back mangroves, casting to the big rolling tarpon on the incoming and sneaking on snook with the outgoing. Designed with a full wrap 8-base wrap and lightweight yet durable bio-based nylon frame, Piedra can perform all day long without weighing you down.

Sight-fishing requires laser focus on the slightest indication— that split-second opportunity when you’ll either set the hook or lament over the one that got away. With so much on the line, you need sunglasses that give you every available advantage. Something solid as a rock. Introducing Roca (rock in Spanish), named for the productive Roca Flat near Campeche, Mexico. These are a solid pair of performance shades indeed.

vega swash

Named after the Islamorada flat that’s home to lazy tarpon and pesky permit, the Swash will keep you coming back for more. Just like when the fish turned away at the last moment before the strike. Your guide squinted from behind the dark lens not because of the sunlight, but because he was deep in thought.

Named for Alejandro, Vega Cruz, AKA “Sandflea,” the Grandfather of fly fishing on the Yucatan’s Isla Holbox. The large frame Vega can help you spot giant 200-pound tarpon rolling in by the hundreds all day without weighing you down thanks to the strong yet lightweight bio-based frames.

FAILURE

is not an option

Scientific

Anglers is credited with being the first fly line manufacturer to break from the tradition of braided silk lines by introducing something truly revolutionary: polymer coated fly lines. No longer did anglers have to treat lines to make them float, or dry them after a day on the water. Scientific Angler’s lines float higher, last longer, and require very little maintenance. Our proprietary manufacturing method allowed us to infinitely adjust tapers, to create lines tailor made for different environments and a variety applications. Scientific Anglers chose to use flexible PVC because of it’s incredible wear and bending strength and weather-ability. That’s how we make the most durable fly lines in the world.

FLEX PVC//

What is flex PVC? Flex PVC is made by combining PVC with a suitable liquid known as a plasticizer. Plasticizers are added to make the PVC more supple, so that it can withstand the stress of being bent back and forth (casting for example). The type and loading of plasticizer determines how soft or rigid the end product is. Plasticizer science has evolved over the years and has adapted as needed. Older plasticizer technology used substances called phthalates which came under scrutiny and are now regulated by organizations and legislation like Proposition 65 (US-California) and REACH (EU). Flexible (plasticized) PVC is still widely used in many different markets like medical tubing, blood bags, flooring, rainwear and boots, automotive interiors, plumbing, imitation leather, inflatable watercraft, and cable insulation to name a few.

SCIENTIFIC ANGLER’S CURRENT COATING FORMULATION//

Like other industries, Scientific Angler’s coating formulation has adapted over the years to better suit the market and to protect our resources. Scientific Angler’s current fly line coating formulation DOES NOT contain phthalate-based plasticizers present on California’s Proposition 65 chemical list or regulated by REACH. We are committed to providing the highest quality, most durable and environmentally friendly products that we can.

DURABILITY//

A final thought, and different perspective on environmentally conscious products: testing shows that our fly lines are 2-4 times more durable than competitive PVC lines, and 7-8 times more durable than competitive non-PVC lines. We keep more fly lines out of landfills simply by providing a more durable product.

AST PLUS

A revolutionary breakthrough in slickness technology; 50% slicker than the original AST

AST Scientific Anglers’ patented slickness agent, built into the coating

SA•ID

The Scientific Anglers innovative line marking system

AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT

The inverse of the Tactile Reference Point - an embossed section where the head meets the running line.

SONAR

Our SONAR sinking technology takes flies to where the fish are: beneath the surface

TACTILE REFERENCE POINT

A smooth section of line that serves as a tactile signal between the head and running line

TROPICORE

Braided monofilament core for harsh tropical conditions

SEAMLESS DENSITY

A gradual mixing of densities, resulting in a straight-line connection to the fly

WELDED LOOPS

Hand-welded loops on the ends of fly lines to provide loop-toloop leader connections

SHOOTING TEXTURE

Golf ball-shaped embossing that reduces friction, resulting in increased shootability

DRY TIP

CAMO TIP

A subtle mixing of muted colors on the tip to provide increased stealth

A unique blend of microballoons, resulting in high-floating fly-line tips

100-LB CORE

A 100-lb. braided monofilament core built for large fish and harsh tropical conditions

FLOATING TEXTURE

Diamond-shaped embossing that reduces surface area, resulting in high flotation

Lasts 8 Times Longer on average, than the closest three competitors

In addition to creating the slickest lines on the planet, AST Plus increases the durability of fly lines by leaps and bounds. Throughout our durability testing, lines with AST Plus consistently performed better than any other lines on the market. On average, lines with AST Plus last 8 times longer than lines from our top three competitors.

How to read this chart: In our durability testing, we affix a weight to the end of a line and run it through the tip-top of a fly rod. One cycle constitutes the lowering and raising of this weight to provide friction through the guide. In looking at this chart, it is evident that lines with AST Plus last far longer than the lines of our top three competitors. In fact, lines with AST Plus last over 120% longer than the closest competition and, on average, 862% longer than the top three competitors.

Up to 5 Times Less Friction than the competition

For our slickness tests, we took the exact same length and diameter of lines with AST Plus, AST, and lines from the competition, wound them over a clean, polished surface, and clamped one end in a test frame. A weight was attached to the free end and pulled upwards at a constant rate, measuring the drag of the line over that span.

How to read this chart: When measuring slickness, we focus on ounces of friction (or drag) at startup. Lower drag values mean that lines are slicker and therefore perform better. Lines with AST Plus feature far less friction on startup than lines from our top competitors. In this case, less is better.

Maintains Slickness for the life of the fly line

The AST Plus compound actually moves within the coating, naturally migrating to the surface as the line begins to wear down. This means lines with AST Plus not only retain their initial slickness, but can actually get slicker as the coating wears.

Lines built with AST Plus retain their out-of-thebox slickness far longer than any other fly line on the market.

AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT

The inverse of the Tactile Reference Point - an embossed section where the head meets the running line.

TWO HANDED

PREMIUM TWO-HANDED LINES

Whether you’re swinging tubeflies or riffling hitches, the SA Two-Handed lineup has exactly what you need. From our Headway and UST lines, designed and developed by Flyfish Eruope, to our Spey Lite, Scandi and Skagit lines, we have both of your hands covered. SA Two-Handed lines feature the SA•ID line identification tool, our AST slickness additive, as well as welded loops for easy switchouts. Some even feature the textured Audible Reference point or our SONAR sinking technology. No matter what your two hands are fishing for, SA has the line that will get the job done.

AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:

SA•ID

The Scientific Anglers innovative line marking system

AST

Scientific Anglers’ patented slickness agent, built into the coating

SHOOTING TEXTURE

Golf ball-shaped embossing that reduces friction, resulting in increased shootability

SONAR

Our SONAR sinking technology takes flies to where the fish are: beneath the surface

WELDED LOOPS

Hand-welded loops on the ends of fly lines to provide loop-toloop leader connections

SEAMLESS DENSITY

A gradual mixing of densities, resulting in a straight-line connection to the fly

Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com

FLOATING TEXTURE

Diamond-shaped embossing that reduces surface area, resulting in high flotation

• The bellies are designed to be used with a tip (They don’t work properly without)

• The tapered tips will turn over both the smallest and biggest salmon flies out there. improve most other heads (from competing brands) in the market (sold separately)

• Bellies come in three different variants (floating, intermediate, and S3)

• Tips range from 9 – 18´ in six different sinking densities (sold separately)

• Rear-end weight distribution makes the bellies perfect for loading your fly rod, and angled casting abilities

• Orange tracer at the read-end of the belly ensures visual control while casting and

• No hinging in the transition between belly and tip. Makes for harmonious casting, better presentation (with straightened tippets)

• Textured coating, which - compared to traditional lines - makes the lines easier to prior to casting

• Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job

T-TIP RECOMMENDATION

BELLY & TIP COMBINATIONS

SHOOTING TEXTURE WELDED LOOP S SA LIN E ID

HEADWAY BELLIES

Two-handed shooting heads

• The bellies are designed to be used with a tip (They don’t work properly without). Bellies come in three different variants (floating, intermediate, and S3)

• Rear-end weight distribution makes the bellies perfect for loading your fly rod, and provides excellent angled casting abilities

• Orange tracer at the read-end of the belly ensures visual control while casting and fishing. No hinging in the transition between belly and tip. Makes for harmonious casting and smooth loops

• Textured coating, which - compared to traditional lines - makes the lines easier to pull out of the water prior to casting

• Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job. Looped in both ends.

Flyfisheurope.com

SHOOTING TEXTURE WELDED LOOP S SA LIN E ID

Designed by Flyfish Europe Flyfisheurope.com

HEADWAY TIPS

5 densities, 4 lengths

• The tapered tips will turn over both the smallest and biggest salmon flies out there. The tips will also improve most other heads (from competing brands) in the market

• Tips range from 9 – 18´ in five different sinking densities

• No hinging in the transition between belly and tip. Makes for harmonious casting and smooth loops

• Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job. Looped in both ends.

• Textured coating, which - compared to traditional tips - makes the tips easier to pull out of the water prior to casting

• Looped in both ends - ready to fish.

HEADWAY T-TIPS

13’ level sink-8 tips

• 13` level T material with an 2` front taper

SHOOTING TEXTURE WELDED LOOP S SA LIN E ID

• More mass ensures maximum sink rate

• Front taper makes casting easier than traditional T-Tips + gives better presentations than traditional T-Tips

• Textured coating, which - compared to traditional tips - makes the tips easier to pull out of the water prior to casting

• Looped in both ends- ready to fish

• Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job

UST EXPRESS SINK

Multi-Tip Shooting Head System

UST EXPRESS SINK FEATURES

+ Designed in conjunction with FFE specifically for the demands of European salmon anglers

+ Fastest sinking shooting heads on the market

+ Powerful taper turns over heavy flies with ease while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly

+ No hinging provides a straight-line connection to the fly

+ Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from the depths before the next cast

+ Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head in low light

+ New and stronger loops

“In June 2020 I experienced some of my best Norwegian salmon fly fishing ever. Using SA’s Express Sink made this possible in the cold, flooded rivers I fished - Øistein Aas

DEEP WATER EXPRESS

For dredging deep, rapid water

• Deep Water Express is heavy sinkin shooting heads developed for rapid, deep water.

• One of fly fishing’s fastest-sinking shooting tapers

• Quickly gets a fly 20’ or deeper

• Use full length or cut to match rod; includes cutting chart

• Taper Characteristics:

• Tapered to promote good turnover at long range

The solution for swollen rivers and the deepest pools. The heaviest artillery for the biggest salmon.

BESTSELLER

UST MULTI-TIP KIT Multi-Tip Shooting Head System

• A powerful shooting head with interchangeable tips turns over heavy flies and long leaders with ease while maintaining a precise delivery of the fly.

• The slim loop-to-loop connection between head and interchangeable tips provides a smooth and seamless transition to eliminate hinging, and provide a straight-line connection to the fly.

• The vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light. Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from the depths before the next cast

• Kit comes with 4 Textured Tips: Floating, Intermediate, Sink2/ Sink4, Sink7

UST MULTI TIP BELLY INTERMEDIATE

For refined presentation just below the surface

• Designed in conjunction with Flyfish Europe specifically for the demands of European salmon and sea trout anglers

• Powerful shooting head designed for interchangeable tips

• Slim loop-to-loop connection between head and interchangeable tips provides a smooth and seamless transition to eliminate hinging, and provide a straight-line connection to the fly

• Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light

• Shooting Texture allows the line to easily be lifted from the depths before the next cast

UST TEXTURED TIP

A selection that lets you pin-point the fishing depth

The world’s first tapered, textured multi-density Spey Tips

Shooting Texturing reduces friction, allowing for easier pickups of sinking tips

Tapered design aids in turning over flies at any distance

Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

SKAGIT

Floating and Intermediate Skagit Line for Salmon and Steelhead

• Compact, powerful design with fully tapered belly for consistent turnover and accurate delivery

• Designed to be used with sink tips for targeting steelhead and salmon

• High contrast sighter at the rear of the head identifies the perfect overhang

SKAGIT SHORT

Compact flaoting skagit head for shorter spey rods

• The Skagit Short is designed to pair better with shorter Spey rods or when an angler needs to wade deep. This allows the angler to maintain a good D-loop even when the distance between the rod tip and water is shortened.

• Shorter head length for use with short spey rods or when wading deep

• Designed to be used with sink tips for targeting steelhead and salmon

SPEY LITE INTEGRATED SKAGIT

Floating and Intermediate Integrated Light Skagit Line

• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips with light two-handed rods - or single-handed rods

• Integrated, one-piece floating line reduces hinging on casts and eliminates loop-to-loop connection

• Tip recommendations:

150-210 grains - SONAR leaders

240-300 grains - 8’ UST Tips

330-420 grains - 8’ or 10’ UST Tips

• Braided multifilament core

SPEY LITE SKAGIT HEAD

Light floating and intermediate Skagit Head

• Ultra-short head for turning over heavy tips with light two-handed rods

• Tip recommendations:

150-210 grains - SONAR leaders

240-300 grains - 8’ UST Tips

330-420 grains - 8’ or 10’ UST Tips

• Lines can be used with single-handed rods as well

SPEY LITE SCANDI INTEGRATED

Integrated Light Scandi Line

• Short head for quick casts and line control

• Integrated, one-piece floating line reduces hinging on casts and eliminates loop-to-loop connection

• Excellent line for swinging streamers and can be used as a dry-fly line with long leaders

• Designed for shorter two-handed rods; also works with single-handed rods

• Braided multifilament core

SPEY LITE SCANDI HEAD

Light Scandi Presentation Head

• Short head for quick casts and line control

• Excellent line for swinging soft hackles, light streamers, and can be used as a dry-fly line with long leaders

• Longer front taper for lighter, softer presentations

• Designed for use with a shooting line on shorter two-handed rods and single-handed rods

• Braided multifilament core; for use in moderate and cold climates

SHOOTING LINE

The Ultimate in Long-Distance Casting

• For exceptional casting distance

• Advanced Shooting Technology freshwater line

• Minimal-friction design delivers high speeds and long distances

• Easier handling with fewer tangles

• Braided multifilament core

TEXTURED SHOOTING LINE

The Ultimate in Long-Distance Casting

• Large 8-inch loop for quick shooting head changes

• Shooting Texture delivers longer casts without abrasion

• Braided multifilament core with hard PVC coating

ABSOLUTE FLAT MONO

Mono Shooting Line

• Rectangular profile reduces line twist and increases grip in fingers

• Hardness is tailored per size for optimal shooting with low memory in any condition

• Vibrant colors that are easily tracked at distance

• Available in 30m reel fill spools

ULTIMATE SHOOTING LINE

Braided Multifilament-Core Shooting Line

• Large front loop for quick changes (20cm)

• Freshwater and saltwater floating shooting lines for exceptional casting distance. Minimal friction gives high speed shooting

• 3,7m handling section

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

ULTIMATE RUNNING LINE

Super slick silicone/oil double coated mono shooting line

• 60 meters 2 in 1

• Individual packages

• Super slick, totaly round, double coated mono

• Solid monofilament core

• Designed by Flyfish Europe

• NOT AN ACTUAL SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS PRODUCT

SINGLE HANDED

PREMIUM SINGLE-HANDED LINES

The Amplitude Series// of fly lines features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for the ultimate in slickness and durability. Each line is built with three textures for a reduction in friction, three colors to identify the separate parts of the line, and welded loops for quick and easy rigging. SA Amplitude lines are the culmination of decades of research, testing, and innovation; no finer fly line exists in the world. Amplitude is available in a number of different freshwater- and saltwater-specific tapers, so now you can reach every fish you’re after.

The Amplitude Smooth Series// lines are smooth like traditional lines, but have increased durability and slickness due to the AST Plus, which is mixed directly into our coatings. Each line is built with three colors to identify the separate parts of the line, and welded loops for quick and easy rigging. SA Amplitude Smooth lines are simply the finest smooth fly lines in the world and are available in a number of freshwater- and saltwater-specific tapers.

The SONAR Series// was designed by anglers for anglers. Built for exploring every inch of the water column, the SONAR Series features sinking heads, full sinking lines, and even custom-cut lines for getting down as deep as you need. Constructed with our AST slickness additive, SONAR sinking technology, SA•ID line identification system, and Welded Loops, the SONAR Series is a technologically advanced set of sinking lines, built for fish of all species. Fresh or salt water, it doesn’t matter. We have a SONAR built for the fish you’re after.

The Mastery Series// lines have been among our most-popular and best-performing lines. While some things have changed, one thing hasn’t: Mastery Series lines still deliver just as well as—if not better than—they ever have before. With our AST slickness additive, Dry-Tip technology, color change at the rear of the head, and SA•ID identification system, Mastery lines are still the best smooth lines at their price point on the market. From dry-fly purists to tarpon-chasing poon hounds, the Mastery Series from SA provides every angler the lines they need to catch the fish they crave.

The Frequency Series// of lines: the Trout and Double Tapers, built for precise presentations; the Boost, a half-size heavy taper for handling bigger dries, nymphs, and streamers; the Magnum, an even more powerful line for the largest streamers and poppers; the Saltwater, for fish along the coastlines; along with Sink-Tip, Full Sink, and Intermediate lines for all your sub-surface needs.

The AirCel Series// of lines are simple, no-frills fly lines designed to get you out on the water without clearing out your bank account. Built without all the bells, whistles, textures, and colors of our more premium offerings, the AirCel series just gets the job done for budget-conscious beginners and thrifty professionals alike.

AVAILABLE TECHNOLOGIES:

AST +

AST PLUS

A revolutionary breakthrough in slickness technology; 50% slicker than the original AST

AST Scientific Anglers’ patented slickness agent, built into the coating

SA•ID

The Scientific Anglers innovative line marking system

AUDIBLE REFERENCE POINT

The inverse of the Tactile Reference Point - an embossed section where the head meets the running line.

SONAR

Our SONAR sinking technology takes flies to where the fish are: beneath the surface

TACTILE REFERENCE POINT

A smooth section of line that serves as a tactile signal between the head and running line

TROPICORE

Braided monofilament core for harsh tropical conditions

SEAMLESS DENSITY

A gradual mixing of densities, resulting in a straight-line connection to the fly

WELDED LOOPS

Hand-welded loops on the ends of fly lines to provide loop-toloop leader connections

SHOOTING TEXTURE

Golf ball-shaped embossing that reduces friction, resulting in increased shootability

CAMO TIP

A subtle mixing of muted colors on the tip to provide increased stealth

DRY TIP

A unique blend of microballoons, resulting in high-floating fly-line tips

100-LB CORE

A 100-lb. braided monofilament core built for large fish and harsh tropical conditions

Full ranges available at www.flyfisheurope.com

FLOATING TEXTURE

Diamond-shaped embossing that reduces surface area, resulting in high flotation

BESTSELLER

TROUT STANDARD

True-to-weight line

• Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability

• Floating Texture on the tip section for the ultimate in flotation; it simply keeps dry flies floating longer

• Shooting Texture running line delivers longer casts, thanks to a reduction in friction

• Mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at distance

• Braided multifilament core

TROUT For Delicate Dry-Fly Deliveries to Trout

• The very best true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers; front taper is designed for delicate deliveries

• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo

• Braided multifilament core

DOUBLE TAPER

For Delicate Dry-Fly Deliveries to Trout

• The very best true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers; front taper is designed for delicate deliveries

• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

INFINITY

The Go-To Line for All Freshwater Species

• Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, panfish, bass, carp, steelhead, salmon, and pike

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions

• Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability

MPX

Mastery Presentation Taper

• Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability

• The ultimate general presentation line

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods

• Best for large dry flies, nymphs, and streamers

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

BIG WATER TAPER

For the Biggest Fish in the Biggest Water

• Built one size heavy to load quickly and deliver the biggest flies to the furthest targets; use designated line weight for your rod

• Specially designed for tropical environments

• Built on a 100-lb. core; ideal for tarpon, GTs, tuna, billfish, and arapaima in harsh tropical environments + Comes with 100lb braided add on loops

MPX

Half-size heavy line

• Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability

• An excellent general-presentation line for trout, panfish, bass, grayling and carp; also useful for steelhead, salmon, and pike

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions

• Best for large dry flies, nymphs, and streamers

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

TROUT

For Delicate Dry Fly Deliveries to Trout

• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs; wonderful on glass and bamboo

• The best smooth, true-to-grain-weight line for casting small dry flies to picky risers

• Elongated front taper is designed for delicate presentations

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

ART

A smooth freshwater allrounder

• Half-size heavy to load rods quickly

• Powerful taper helps to turn over long dry-fly leaders and deliver nymphs and small streamers

• Great for single-handed spey casting

• Three-tone super-stealthy colors with camouflage tip for wary fish

• Floating texture on the tip for higher flotation

• Braided multifilament for cold water applications

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

STILLWATER INDICATOR

For Reservoirs and Stillwater Fisheriet

• Long rear taper for extended line control and longdistance casting; the best nymphing taper we offer

• Overweighted by 1.5 sizes to assist in turning over heavy rigs; use designated line weight for your rod. For use in moderate and cold climates

INFINITY

The go-to line

for freshwater gamefish

• Extremely versatile general-purpose taper designed for most freshwater species; an excellent line for trout, grayling, carp, steelhead, salmon, and pike (dry flies, nymphs, streamers)

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions

• Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability

• Available in two color schemes: standard and camo; the camo scheme features a mottled front taper for increased stealth

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

CREEK TROUT

Ideal for Small Creeks and Short Casts

• Features the revolutionary AST Plus slickness additive for superior shooting ability and increased durability

• Short-head design with handling line delivers flies at short-tomedium range with extended line control; Built full size heavy

• Turns over weighted nymphs and streamers, yet offers light presentations when used with long leaders

• Taper design based on the popular SBT lines, only with a longer handling section.

BESTSELLER

TITAN BIG WATER TAPER

Slow Sinking Line for Big Water

• Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head. Overweighted for loading quickly and delivering big flies to distant targets

• Specially designed for tropical environments; built specifically to withstand large game such as GTs, tuna, and billfish

• Built on a 100-lb. core; this is the strongest line on the market, by far (Comes with 100lb braided add on loops)

• Floating running line with intermediate sinking head. Sink Rate: Intermediate = 1.25 ips

TITAN BIG WATER TAPER MAX SINK

Fast Sinking Line for Big Game

• Loads quickly and delivers the biggest flies to the furthest targets

• Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head

• Specially designed for tropical environments

• Shooting Texture reduces friction, providing longer casts, easier pick-up, and increased durability

• Intermediate running line with fast-sinking head

• Sink Rate: Sink 6 = 5.0 - 7.0 ips

• Built on a 100-lb. core. Comes with 100lb braided add on loops

TITAN BIG WATER TAPER BLUEFIN TUNA

Intermediate Line for Big Game - 1.25 ips

• A special production for FFE for the Mediterranean bluefin tuna fishery out of France, Croatia and Italy.

• This line is built on an 80 pound strength core so strong enough to handle large fish and heavy drag pressure. @

• The coating and core are formulated for cooler water and air temperatures, not tropical.

• Floating running line and back of head with 15ft intermediate sink tip

TITAN TRIPLE DENSITY

Triple-Density Line for Throwing Big Streamers

• Two line sizes heavy for loading quickly and delivering the biggest flies to the furthest targets; use designated line weight for your rod

• For use in moderate and cold climates; braided multifilament core

AST

Sink

Sink 5 = 4.5 – 5.5 ips Sink 6 = 5.5 - 6.5 ips Sink 7 = 6.5 – 7.5 ips

TITAN FULL INTERMEDIATE

• Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head

• Slow sink rate gets flies just below the surface

• For temperate climates

0’ 10’ 20’ 30’ 40’ 50’ 60’ 70’ 80’ 90’ 100’ RUNNING LINE REAR TAPER FRONT TAPER BELLY 2 BELLY 1 BLUE / PALE GREEN BESTSELLER FLY LINE COASTAL LINE WEIGHT HEAD LENGTH TOTAL LENGTH HEAD WEIGHT AFTM WEIGHT* WF-6-I 10,2M 32,0M 14,7G 14,6G WF-7-I 10,2M 32,0M 17,2G 17,2G WF-8-I 10,2M 32,0M 19,4G 19,4G WF-9-I 10,2M 32,0M 23,3G 23,3G WF-10-I 10,2M 32,0M 26,5G 26,6G WF-11-I 10,2M 32,0M 33,0G 33,0G WF-12-I 10,2M 32,0M 34,6G 34,7G *Gram weight for the first 30’ (9,14m)

WELDED LOOP S SA LIN E ID SONA R AST AST FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 2023 169 S O N A R S I N K I N G L I N E S

• Braided multifilament core

MUSKY Powerful Fast Sinking Musky Taper

• Powerful head to turn over extremely large flies

• Reinforced loops

• Oversized running line for increased line management and positive strip sets.

• Intermediate running line and Sink 5 head works well for lakes and rivers

• For use in moderate climates

• Braided multifilament core

STILLWATER CLEAR CAMO

Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface

Fishing

• Designed for the unique demands of stillwater angling, the Clear Camo simply disappears beneath the surface, and features a slow, intermediate sink rate to tempt fish sitting just below the chop.

• Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers

• Based on popular MPX taper

• Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders

• Full intermediate (1.25 ips) line over camouflage core for the ultimate in stealth

• Features all-new supple clear material for reduced memory

PARABOLIC SINK

Sinks in a U-Shaped Profile

• Overweighted by two line weights for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod. Features 10-foot and 20-foot textured hang markers

• Seamless Density technology provides a smooth transition between densities, eliminates hinging, and provides a straight-line connection to the fly

• Sinking in a U-shaped profile, this line features a Sink 3 running line, Sink 5 head, and a Sink 3 tip

• This line sinks faster in the middle to move the fly in a U-shaped retrieve, which is great for triggering strikes

STILLWATER SEAMLESS DENSITY

Based on the Popular MPX Taper

• Overweighted by two line weights for multiple flies and long leaders

• Features 10’ and 20’hang markers

CLEAR EMERGER TIP

For Fishing Flies in or Near the Surface

• Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers

• Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod

• 5-foot clear intermediate tip (1.25 ips) with floating running line and head for fishing flies just below the surface

• Features all-new supple clear material for reduced memory

• Monofilament core; for use in moderate and cold climates

CAMO INTERMEDIATE

Camouflage Line for Sub-Surface Fishing

• Based on our popular Infinity Salt taper

• Made half size heavy for larger flies and windy days

• Full intermediate, coldwater coating over camoflauge core for stealthy presentations with minimal memory in cold to medium waters

• Sink rate: 1.25 IPS (intermediate)

SINK 25 COLD

Sinking-Head Fly Line for Cold Water

25’ extra-fast sinking head with handling line

An excellent streamer line - perfect for wading

Low-tangle design increases shooting distance

• Floating running line Super Fast Sink: 4.0 - 8.0 ips, sinks 4’ - 15’

STILLWATER HOVER

For Fishing Flies Just Below the Surface Film

Designed specifically for the demands of stillwater anglers

• Based on our popular MPX taper

• Overweighted by a full line weight for multiple flies and long leaders; use designated line weight for your rod Extra-slow sinking hover (1 ips) for fishing the film

INFINITY

The Go-To-Line for All Freshwater Species

• Extremely versatile general-purpose taper

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods, but works well with a variety of rod actions

Extended head length for long-distance casts and superior mending ability

• Excellent for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Braided multifilament core

DT

Double Taper Line for Delicate Work at Short Range

• Double-taper lines are extra-delicate for subtle presentations

• Excels in short-to-medium distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs

• The ultimate fly line for chasing trout in close quarters

• Braided multifilament core

COMPETITION NYMPH

• Ultra-thin level-line design for premium performance and sensitivity

• For use with rods 0- through 5-weight

• Meets FIPS Mouche competition specifications

• For use in moderate and cold climates

• Monofilament core

• Comes with braided loop connection

TITAN

BESTSELLER

Quick-Loading Floating Taper for Big Flies

• Built two sizes heavy to load quickly and deliver the biggest flies to the furthest targets

• Loads quickly and delivers the biggest flies to the furthest targets

• Excellent turnover due to short, powerful head and short front taper

• Ideal line for boat or wade fishing

• For temperate climates

• Braided multifilament core

EXPERT DISTANCE

Distance-Casting Taper

• Extra-long head and tapers for long-distance casting

• Compound head design ensures strong turnover at distance

• Ideal line for IFFF casting certification and competition casting

• For temperate climates

• Braided multifilament core

BESTSELLER

VPT

Versatile Presentation Taper

• Perfect for delicate dry-fly fishing

• Floating Textured tip for high flotation

• Great for roll-casting and soft presentations

• Excellent line control in close or at a distance

• Braided multifilament core

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

ART

All-Round

• Half-size heavy to load rods quickly

• Powerful taper helps to turn over long dry-fly leaders and deliver nymphs and small streamers

• Great for single-handed Spey casting

• Two-tone super-stealthy colors with new camouflage tip for wary fish

• Floating texture on tip for higher flotation

• Braided multifilament core for cold-water applications

SBT

Short Belly Taper

• Short head delivers flies at short-to-medium range with extended line control

• Turns over weighted flies, yet offers light presentations

• Camo non-spooking tip,

• Well suited for single-handed Spey casts

• Braided multifilament core

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

TROUT

BESTSELLER

• Revised compound taper for delicate deliveries

• Excels in medium-to-long distances with dry flies and smaller nymphs and streamers

• The ultimate line for chasing trout

• Braided multifilament core

MPX

BESTSELLER

• The ultimate general presentation line

• Improved version of our GPX taper

• Best for large dry flies, nymphs, and streamers

• Made a half-size heavy to load fast-action rods

Braided multifilament core

• Excellent with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers

AFFTA Standard Weight, Mid-Length Head

• True to line weight

• Mid-length head for exceptional mending and accuracy at distance

• The caster’s fishing line

• Braided multifilament core

• For use in moderate and cold climates

VOLANTIS INTEGRATED

Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish.

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

• Compact and powerful integrated shooting head for predator species

• Load rods quickly with minimal false casts

• Cuts through the wind with ease, and turns over all types of flies

• Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light

• Braided multifilament core, stays supple in cold conditions

• Floating running line

““After 25 years with my fly rod along the coast, I have developed very clear thoughts about how I’d like my fly line to perform. The line should carry my fly out to the fish with a minimal amount of false casting - in even the worst of conditions. Volantis has exactly what I`m looking for in a fly line for coastal fly fishing”.

- Runar Kabbe

Flyfisheurope.com

Designed by Flyfish Europe

VOLANTIS INTEGRATED - INT/SINK 3

Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish.

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

• Compact and powerful integrated shooting head for predator species

• Load rods quickly with minimal false casts

• Cuts through the wind with ease, and turns over all types of flies

• Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light

• Braided multifilament core, stays supple in cold conditions

VOLANTIS INTEGRATED

FULL INTERMEDIATE - CLEAR CAMO

Your go-to fly line for seatrout and other coastal predator fish.

• Compact and powerful integrated shooting head

• Load rods quickly with minimal false casts

• Cut through the wind with ease, and turn over all types of flies

• Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light conditions

• Single-strand monofilament core

• Full intermediate line

• Designed and developed by Flyfish Europe

VOLANTIS SHOOTING HEAD

Scandinavia-designed shooting heads in three densities

• Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

• Compact and powerful shooting head for predator species

• Load rods quickly with minimal false casts

• Cuts through the wind with ease, and turns over all types of flies

• Vibrantly colored tracer aids in identifying the back of the head at distance or in low light

• Braided multifilament core, stays supple in cold conditions

• Available in Float, Intermediate, and Fast Intermediate

FREQUENCY

BESTSELLER

TROUT - DT & WF

FOR DRY-FLY TROUT PURSUITS

• All-around trout fly line

• Versatile taper excels with most flies and conditions

• Excels in all weather conditions

• Mid-length head

• Formulated with Advanced Shooting Technology

• Braided multifilament core

SINK TIP

BESTSELLER

• deal for streamers and wet flies for trout, steelhead, salmon, in moving water Fast-sinking 10’ tip sinks flies through the water column

• Mid-length head enhances control

• Best used in moving water Sink Rates: 2.5 – 4.0 ips (Type III)

• Braided multifilament core

BESTSELLER

• For chucking streamers in rivers as well, at this price, it would be silly not to get one. Especially effective for fishing streamers

• Thin diameter cuts through wind

• Ideal for use in stillwater situations

• Mid-length head for enhanced line control

• Sink Rate: 1.25 ips (Intermediate)

Braided multifilament core

BESTSELLER

FULL SINK

BOOST

FREQUENCY

BESTSELLER

AIRCEL

BESTSELLER

• Especially effective for fishing streamers

• Thin diameter cuts through wind. Ideal for use in stillwater situations

• Front welded loop on Sink 3; Sink 6 includes braided loop connection. Mid-length head for enhanced line control

• Sink Rates: 2.5 – 4.0 ips (Sink 3)

• Sink Rate: 5.0 – 6.0 ips (Sink 6)

• Monofilament core

FULL SINKING FLY LINE - SINK 3 & SINK 6 *Gram weight for the

HALF-SIZE HEAVY

• Features a mid-length head perfect for nearly all freshwater applications

• Excellent general-purpose line

• Half-size heavy and more powerful than the Trout taper. Better with larger, heavier flies

• Supple and easy to use

• Versatile mid-length head

• Braided multifilament core

GENERAL-PURPOSE FLOATING

• The original modern floating fly line, now with a front loop

• Raised bump in handling section to indicate the ideal place to begin the cast

• Braided multifilament core

BESTSELLER

AIRCEL SHORT

QUICK-LOADING FLOATING LINE

Weight-forward fly line with a welded loop on the front. Braided multifilament core

• Short head design with handling line delivers flies and short to medium range with extended line control - Over weighted by a full line size

• Well suited for single-handed Spey casting

• Based on Mastery SBT

Designed by Flyfish Europe in cooperation with Scientific Anglers

WETCEL INT/SINK

GENERAL-PURPOSE FLOATING

• Several different sink rates available to target a variety of species

Sink Rates:

• Intermediate = 1.25 ips

• Sink 2 = 1.75 – 2.75 ips

• Sink 4 = 4.0 – 5.0 ips

• Sink 6 = 4.5 – 6.0 ips

Braided multifilament core

• Intermediate on monofilament core

WETCEL SINK TIP4

GENERAL-PURPOSE SINK TIP LINE

• 12 ft long (3,7m), sink 4 sinking tip

• Braided multifilament core for moderate to cold climates

• Mid-length head for general fishing situations

• Sink Rate - Sink 4 = 4.0 - 5.0 ips

ABSOLUTELY BEST IN CLASS

Best in class material. Absolute leaders and tippet are made with proprietary copolymer blends that drastically limit water absorption while maintaining optimal suppleness for high knot strength. A post production coating further limits water absorption and UV degradation while increasing lubricity to manage heat buildup from knot tightening friction. This results in a 29% higher wet knot strength for nylon and 15% strength gain for fluorocarbon and 33% higher knot strength for Supreme Fluorocarbon over previous offerings.

Competitive testing performed by 3rd party testing facility:

*Competitive materials in no particular order: Rio Powerflex+, Rio Powerflex, Umpqua, Trouthunter, Trouthunter EVO

Simple and sustainable packaging. Intuitive color scheme for easy identification of material and application. Leader packages are 100% biodegradable, including plastic window and ink, to reduce single use plastic packaging. Small tippet spools feature a color-coded, printed silicone band for better tippet retention and legibility.

Primary Color = Material

Nylon Copolymer Fluorocarbon

Absolute leaders and tippet are made with proprietary copolymer blends that are designed to drastically reduce water absorption while maintaining an optimal suppleness for high knot strength. Absolute nylon leaders and tippet have a 29% higher wet knot strength compared to our previous material and up to 40% higher wet knot strength when compared to our competitors. Absolute fluorocarbon leaders and tippet boast a 15% higher wet knot strength compared to our previous material and features incredible clarity and abrasion resistance.

ABSOLUTE TROUT

Freshwater Tippet

• Sizes: 7X – 0X, with 0.5X sizes

• Length: 30m spools in all sizes

• Supple for drag free drifts

• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition

ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON TROUT

Fluorocarbon Tippet

• Sizes: 7X – 0X, with 0.5x sizes!

• Length: 30m spools in all sizes

• 100% fluorocarbon for ultimate stealthy presentations

Supple for drag free drifts

ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH

Freshwater Tippet

• Sizes: 6X - 3X

• Length: 30m spools in all sizes

• Supple for drag free drifts

• Light olive tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish

• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition

ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON SALMON TIPPET

Fluorocarbon tippet

• 30m spools

• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm

• Supple for drag free drifts

• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition

ABSOLUTE CLEAR SALMON TIPPET

Nylon tippet

• 30m spools

• Diameter range 0.28 - 0.48mm

• Supple for drag free drifts

• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition

Our new paper-based Leader packaging is now 100% recyclable. All materials, inks, and window are fully biodegradable to protect our streams and reduce our environmental footprint. Please don’t litter!

ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON

Fluorocarbon Tapered Leader

• 100% Fluorocarbon for stealthy presentations

• Taper and butt diameters adapted per size to perfectly match common flies

• Abrasion resistant

ABSOLUTE TROUT

• Tapers specifically designed for Trout fishing

• Heavy butt diameters for powerful accurate deliveries

• Supple material for drag free drifts

• On average 40% stronger wet-knot strength than competition

• Available as single and three leader packs

ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH

Freshwater Tapered Leader

• Light olive tint reduces line flash for ultra wary fish

• For dry fly and nymph fishing in close quarters

• Supple Material for drag free drifts

ABSOLUTE TROUT PRESENTATION

Freshwater Tapered Leader

• Large butts to turn over longer length with ease

• Progressive taper delicately delivers fly

• Supple Material for drag free drifts

ABSOLUTE TROUT STEALTH FINESSE

Freshwater Tapered Leader

• Excellent for slack line presentations for long, drag free drifts.

• Made with proprietary copolymer blends that are designed to drastically reduce water absorption

• Optimal suppleness for high knot strength

ABSOLUTE SALMON LEADER

Freshwater Tapered Leader

• Tapers specifically designed to handle salmon flies or various size and weight

• Heavy butt diameters matched to modern salmon lines for powerful, accurate deliveries

TRI-COLOR SIGHTER

Freshwater Tippet

• Sizes: 4X, 2X, and 0X

• Length: 10m spools in all sizes

• Green/White/Orange color

• Low memory, high abrasion resistance, maximum knot strength

ABSOLUTE INDICATOR

STILLWATER

Freshwater Leader

• Hot orange butt section for strike detection

• Great for indicator fishing stillwater or river for trout

• Short Butt section with long tippet section to sink nymphs quickly and evenly

ABSOLUTE EURO NYMPH

Freshwater

• Small diameter butt section to match with small diameter euro nymph lines

• Integrated Absolute Tri-color sighter

• Tippet ring allows easy attachment of tippet material

ABSOLUTE EURO NYMPH KIT

For European-Style Nymphing

• Convert any single hand fly line to Euro Nymphing setup

• Kit includes 10’ floating Euro Nymph tip, Absolute Euro Nymph leader, and foam storage spool.

“Convert almost any single hand trout rod quickly to a Euro Nymphing setup with this kit. Includes a 6,1m floating Euro Nymph Tip (0.64mm dia), the Absolute Euro Nymph leader, and foam storage spool”.

ABSOLUTE RIGHT ANGLE LEADER

Freshwater Tapered Leader - 9’ 3X-4X / 9’ 5X-6X / 11’ 2X

• Perpendicular dropper section ensures quick, efficient sinking of flies and accurate strike detection

• Pre-rigged leader perfect for most trout indicator nymphing situations

• Includes butt section, indicator, and dropper section. Angler attaches terminal tippet and flies to supplied tippet ring

• Hand-tied in the USA

ABSOLUTE FLUOROCARBON SHOCK

Saltwater Fluorocarbon Shock

• Length: 30m spools in all sizes - Sizes: 25lb – 80lb

• Extreme abrasion resistance for Saltwater and Predatory fish

• 100% Fluorocarbon

• Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing

ABSOLUTE LEADER MATERIAL

Saltwater Leader Material

• Sizes: 25lb – 80lb

• Length: 50m spools in all sizes

• General Purpose, medium stiff monofilament for leader building

• Unique open-hub spool for easy dispensing

SONAR SALMON LEADERS

Sinking Leaders for anadromous fish

• Sinking leaders for use with double-handed lines; perfect for Atlantic salmon, Pacific salmon and steelhead

• Built on 45-lb. monofilament core

• Welded loop on butt end

TAILOUT TOOL ASSORTMENT

• Everything you need to get started on the water

• Includes forceps, standard nipper, and zinger

TAILOUT HOOK FILE

• Increase your hook ups with sharp hooks

• Dual Diamond Grit Sharpening Surface

• 4” Length

• Ergonomic Foam Grip

TAILOUT NIPPER STANDARD

• Stainless steel cutting blades

• Wide, coated grip with finger choil for positive, reliable grip

• Enclosed needle for clearing hook eyes without poking fingers

TAILOUT NIPPER CARBIDE

• Carbide cutter for exceptional edge retention and longevity

• Wide, coated grip with finger choil for positive, reliable grip

• Enclosed needle for clearing hook eyes without poking fingers

TAILOUT STANDARD CLAMP 5.75”

• Half Smooth Half Serrated Jaw

• 5.75” Length

• Ergonomic Foam Grip

Stainless Steel Construction Needle Hook Eye Cleaner

TAILOUT SCISSOR CLAMP 5.75”

• Half Smooth Half Serrated Jaw with Built-in Scissor

• 5.75” Length

• Ergonomic Foam Grip

Stainless Steel Construction Needle Hook Eye Cleaner

Scan

TAILOUT MITTEN SCISSOR CLAMP

• Open and close with a single motion

• Half Smooth Half Serrated Jaw with Built-in Scissor

• 5.5” Length

• Ergonomic Foam Grip

• Stainless Steel Construction Needle Hook Eye Cleaner

REGULATOR ERGO HEMO

• Angled Head for Exceptional Visibility and Reach

• Smooth Jaws for Pinching Barbs, and Serrated Scissor

• Ergonomically Spaced Foam Grips Provide Ultimate Control and Comfort

• Combo Bottle Opener/Knot Tension Tool

• Create and dispense coils of fly line

• Only one Regulator Spool is needed for managing all of your lines

For more information www.flyfisheurope.com

Innovative, exceptional quality fishing gear designed by fishermen for fishermen.

Company founder Wayne Smith, originally from California, discovered his own New Zealand paradise while fishing his way across the South Pacific on his sailboat 25 odd years ago. Being a designer and innovator he continues to think up new and better ways of doing things.

Every product that Smith Creek offers is an expression of our passion for adventure, the outdoors, and fly-fishing in particular.

Making Headway

In designing the new Headway double-handed shooting head- and tip range, Flyfish Europe and Scientific Anglers teamed up with a number of the most accomplished salmon fishermen and industry insiders in Scandinavia. The result is a new fine-tuned and thoroughly tested line range that simply blows us away!

Two years ago, we came up with the idea of designing a new line system for double-handed rods. In order to gain further insights into the Scandinavian market and the needs of Scandinavian salmon fishermen, we started out by interviewing a series of Scandinavian fly tackle stores. In doing so, we learned more about how to improve and optimize existing line ranges in the market.

Full of input and enthusiasm, we then sat down and designed the first prototypes. During the development and testing phases, we teamed up with some of the most experienced salmon fly fishermen, fly casters, and tackle store representatives in Norway. We’re proud to say that the resulting line- and tip range is the most thoroughly tested and fine-tuned line range we’ve ever designed for Scientific Anglers.

The lines and tips perform equally well for the beginner and the expert no matter what modern high-modulus doublehander you might chose to cast.

The bellies are designed to be used with a tip (They don’t work properly without), and they will turn over both the smallest and biggest salmon flies out there. The tips will also improve most other heads (from competing brands) in the market (sold separately).

The Headway bellies come in three different variants (floating, intermediate, and S3), while the tips range from 9 – 18´ in five different densities (sold separately) plus a range of T-tips. The rear-end weight distribution makes the bellies perfect for loading

your fly rod, and provides excellent angled casting abilities. The lines come with and orange tracer at the read-end of the belly to ensure visual control while casting and fishing.

Due to precision work and neatly designed and executed loops, there’s no hinging in the transition between belly and tip. This makes for harmonious casting and smooth casting loops. The lines come with textured coating, which - compared to traditional lines - makes the lines easier to pull out of the water prior to casting. Lastly, the lines feature Scientific Anglers line-ID on both bellies and tips, so you can always identify the right line for the right job.

The new Headway shooting heads and tips represent a versatile line system that is suited for all conditions. What impressed me the most during the test period was the ability to turn over heavy T-tips and big early-season-flies without any problems at all. Genuinely, a line system for any condition.

It has been a true pleasure to partake in the development of these lines, to provide feedback on the different variants, and to use them for my own salmon succesful salmon trips during the last two years. In the close to 30 years, I’ve sold equipment to discerning fly fisherman, I’ve seen numerous double-handed fly lines come and go. The new Headway lines stand out, and they will provide all salmon fisherman - regardless of skill levels - with a giant leep forward.

After three decades as a passionate salmon flyfisherman and a decade involved in developing and testing various atlantic salmon lines in collaboration with FFE and Scientific Anglers - I can confidently say that the new Headway shooting head and line tip system ticks off every box when it comes to flexibility, presentasion, distance, casting-ease, angle-abilities, combination of line densities, and fishability.

The Scientific Angler’s Headway series offers the flexibility and versatility needed to lure an Atlantic salmon no matter the conditions encountered throughout the season. Not only is the new line system a real pleasure to cast, it also fishes incredibly well. The Headway series is a true gift for the salmon fisherman.

Over the past 15 years, I’ve spent the majority of my summers chasing trophy salmon. I’ve invested myself heavily in the technical aspects of double handed heads, and have been involved in line design over the last 7 years. To be able to partake in Scientific Anglers’ and Flyfish Europe’s Headway project has been incredibly fun, and the outcome truly speaks for itself. Tight loops!

Stoked! It’s an incredibly long-casting system that’s easy to handle - and with unique tips that turn over effortlessly, even when your casting stroke is slightly off.

REVERSE BULKHEAD:

WEEDLESS PIKE FLIES

International fly tiers have contributed to a Danish solution of an old problem: How to make sure you don’t catch weed, but still catch pike. Here’s the answer together with an effective pike fly.

Most fly fishers dream of retrieving their pike flies enticingly across the surface. Briefly, of course, because the monster pike is tuned in on the fly. Before you know it, the beast inhales your fly in a big splash. Pike fishing can be like that, but – in all honesty - rarely is.

Pike can be fished almost year-round, but this means that you need to adapt your strategy on a running basis. Sometimes, you’ll need to fish near the bottom, sometimes you’ll have to cast straight into the weeds, in among the water lilies or right along the rushes. In other words, fly fishing for pike means close contact between hook and snags.

Materials for pike flies are often quite expensive and they require a good deal of time spent at the vice, so preventing solid snags is a high priority. (Also, a pike fly with a Lilypad or rushes attached to it tends to catch fewer pike than one without a snag attached to it).

Weedless or “pikeless”

Fly tiers have spent decades trying to resolve the conflict between hook and weed. A common solution is a loop of heavy monofilament from hook eye to hook bend, covering the hook point. A “V” of heavy monofilament from the hook eye to the hook point is another solution.

Unfortunately, the more effective these weed guards are at reducing snags, the more they reduce your chances of hooking up. Even when aggressively struck, the weed protector can cause the fly to bounce off the pike’s rows of teeth and other hard parts of the mouth. Sometimes the pike’s teeth simply retain the materials (and not the hook) and if you’re lucky, the hook will get a hold during the fight. In these situations, an exposed hook point is also preferable.

Pike fly fishers who have seen a big pike strike a weed-protected fly and not hook up, often end up turning their backs to weed protecting solutions. It seems to them a choice between two evils.

Upside down

Recently, creative fly tiers have taken a closer look at their conventional predator fishing colleagues. It’s common knowledge that a jig head will turn the hook point up to reduce snags on the bottom. For the same reason, bent-back flies are often used when fishing deep, near the bottom. The hook can be weighted to encourage the hook to turn upside down and many fly tiers will bend the hook shank, so the wing helps steer the hook point up. Both methods work well on smaller flies, but they are less ideal on big pike flies. Specific hooks for pike flies that help negotiate this problem have missing on the market, despite the growing popularity of pike- and musky fly fishing in North America.

Texas

The best suited hooks so far have been different versions of hooks, intended for Texas rigs, where a silicone lure is fished with a weight and the point of the hook secured inside the silicone lure. These hooks are available in large sizes and are strong, but they come with disadvantages for the fly tier.

The characteristic Z-shape near the hook eye is designed to hold the rubber lures in place, but they leave little space for the fly tier. But what’s worse is that the Texas style hooks have the hook point in line with the short shank at the hook eye, which reduces the chance of a hook up when fishing for pike. Once again, there’s a dilemma to tackle, because it’s also this very design that can make a fly weedless.

For years, creative fly tiers have been experimenting with fly designs on the Texas style hooks. Many interesting flies have emerged, but they have all come with the compromise between weedless or “pikeless”. Not to mention the time spent at the vice incorporating shanks, to get a little more space to tie the fly on.

International cooperation

Above a typical texas rig hook. The Ahrex Swimbait hook has straight hook sections, so you can tie in glass beads.

When it comes to modern, innovative predator flies, Gunnar Brammer (US) and Paul Monoghan (UK) have made quite a name for themselves lately. Paul Monoghan usually designs his flies for pike, perch and zander, while Gunnar Brammer is an expert on musky- and bass flies. They share the search for the perfect solution on weedless flies and, in many ways, their experiments have led them in the same direction. Eventually they started collaborating with Danish hook brand, Ahrex Hooks, in order to make the first dedicated fly hooks for weedless predator flies.

The collaboration began with the design of the Texas hook, but the goal was to avoid the shank blocking the hook point. At the same

time, a more substantial shank to tie the fly on was a priority. Like all hooks several sizes were needed and last, but not least, the duo wanted the hook to easily accept rattles. Rattles can be very effective when fishing near the bottom and it’s never been easy to fix them on the curved Texas hooks. With these demands it was on to the designing.

Ahrex PR378 GB Swimbait

The result of the collaboration between Paul Monoghan and Gunnar Brammer landed in tackle stores across the world during the fall of 2020 in the form of Ahrex PR378 GB Swimbait. Who would’ve thought that the solution to this old problem was to be found in a collaboration between America, England and Denmark?

Brammer and Monoghan both have their own YouTube channels where they post tying videos on a regular basis. There’s already plenty of inspiration to be had with flies tied on the PR 378 GB Swimbait hook. The goal of designing and producing a weedless hook on which all types of pike flies can be tied seems to have been a success.

Rigging up for steelhead in Northern California

Morten Valeur is a big fan of Paul Monoghan’s lightweight and weedless flies. Here, he prepares to release a well-fed winter pike.

Pike fly fishers who have seen a big pike strike a weed-protected fly and not hook up, often end up turning their backs to weed protecting solutions

The most important feature is the reverse-design that adds bulk and not weight

Reverse bulkhead

In the following, we’ll have a look at one of Paul Monoghan’s successful pike flies. The fly is called Reverse Bulkhead and is inspired by Bob Popovics’ Bulkhead Deceiver.

The classic baitfish profile is built up with bucktail and synthetic fibres and the reverse-style gives a light weight, yet voluminous fly. The reverse-tied fibres provide the illusion of size, but don’t soak up water – so it’s easy to cast.

The drop shape of the Reverse Bulkhead is built up around the hook point, which makes the fly weedless. But unlike the Texas hooks, the design of the PR 378 allows the dressing to collapse when a pike strikes and exposes the offset hook point.

Paul Monoghan considers this a simple fly, but still offers these pointers:

- Pay attention to the first step when attaching the bucktail. Use buck from the lower part of the tail, where the hairs are hollow. Ensure that the fibres are evenly distribution around the hook shank. The buoyant hair will help balance the fly in the water, says Paul. - I often use a synthetic called Kanekalon for my baitfish flies. It’s not available in the tackle stores as it’s made for human hair extensions, but it works well in big flies and it’s cheap. After tying the fly it might look a little messy, but just try soaking the fly under a faucet when the glue is dry. Once the fly dries up, it will have the perfect shape.

Reverse Bulkhead pattern

Hook: Ahrex PR 378 GB Swimbait 4/0.

Thread: White GPS 150D.

Tail: White bucktail and white Kanekalon (alternative EP-fibre or SF Blend), white Magnum Flashabou and silver Polar Flash (or holographic flash).

Body: White bucktail and white Kanekalon (alternative EP-fibre or SF Blend), white standard Flashabou and silver Polar Flash (or holographic flash).

Head: Yellow bucktail, gold Ripple Ice Fiber and two slim grizzle hackles. Orange Nayat and Hedron Strung Fuzzy Fiber spun in a dubbing loop.

Form a small bump with the tying thread at the back of the shank, before tying in the bucktail. Make sure to keep the bucktail on top of the hook shank as you tighten down to splay the fibres.

Cut off the surplus bucktail and apply a small drop of glue before tying in the synthetic fibres. Tie the fibres in so that 70% of them are pointing backwards, 30% forwards. Fold back the part pointing forwards and secure.

Tie in the flash, using the same technique. Distribute the long part over the tail and bring the short section down to the sides of the fly. White first, then silver.

Tie in another section of bucktail, but this time with the tips pointing towards the hook eye. Try to distribute the bucktail around the hook shank. Let the cut ends point backwards and don’t cut them off. Fold all the bucktail backwards and build up a bump in front of the bucktail - don’t tie it over the buck tail.

Repeat the procedure with the synthetic hair, but make sure the synthetics are a little shorter than the tail.

Tie in flash as you did over the tail, but just 6-7 strands. The long section over the top, the shorter ends down on the sides. First white, then silver.

Tie in a yellow bunch of bucktail – the tips pointing towards the hook eye and distributed around the hook shank. Don’t cut off the ends. Once again fold the yellow bucktail back to form a collar and support it with wraps of thread, in front of the bucktail only, not over it.

Tie in Ice Ripple Fibres around the hook shank as a collar like the bucktail. Then tie in a narrow grizzle hackle on both sides.

Finally mix a little Layat and Strung Fuzzy Fibres in your fingers, spin everything in a loop and turn it in front of the bucktail collar. The fly is done.

Fishing with a Conscience

Our community is made up of anglers who spend hours at their vise and long days on the water, as well as those who are lucky if they can get out to fish twice a year. It’s also made up of vendors, co-workers, customers and neighbors. We are all in this together regardless of experience or title. We work to make the process—whether it is fishing or business— more enjoyable for everyone. From products to educational resources to how we respond to questions and interact with our delivery drivers—we look for ways to improve your day.

QuickDraw Rod Wraps

The Quickdraw Rod Wraps securely fastens rod pieces—or multiple rods—together, reducing the likelihood of broken tips or damaged guides. They can be used to safely store and travel with the components of a single broken down rod, or attach multiple rods together. Pair them with a Quickdraw Rod Sleeve and Quickdraw Reel Case to create the perfect traveling combo.

QuickDraw Reel Case - S/M/L

A quality reel is smooth, can stop a freight train, and is a joy to fish. Store it improperly or get some sand it it and you’re trading those velvety spins for a grinding retrieve that will make the hair on your neck stand up. The Quickdraw Reel case houses your precious reel in neoprene, protecting against trauma and grit without locking water in. They are sized to be used regardless of whether or not the reel has ben removed from the rod.

QuickDraw Tool Tether

Not to be mistaken as “just another leash”, the Quickdraw Tool Tether was thoughtfully designed on the water with features that set it apart. The swivel allows tools to spin freely and eliminates tangles, with a nearly indestructible steel core and corrosion-resistant coating. It stays out of the way, but easily extends to 24”/61cm to allow tools to be conveniently

Apex Lip Gripper

Handling predators can be downright dangerous for your fingers (and we’re talking about more than Bass Thumb here). The Apex Lip Gripper is a great way to safely remove the fly and release the fish. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, locks in a resting position, and even floats if it is dropped during the chaos of landing a big fish.

Apex Hook Hone

Big fish don’t come with big margins for error, and it’s heart breaking to miss the fish of the trip because you were slow on the trigger your knots, or neglected to sharpen your hook. The Apex Hook Hone is sized to make quick work of sharpening big flies and doubles as a knot-tensioning tool so that you can take advantage of any opportunity you get at feeding fish.

Trout Plier

Overbuilt doesn’t need to mean oversized. The Trout Pliers are more robust than any pair of hemostats, but they’re still sized for trout. They include a cutter in the jaw that is equally versatile with a unique design that allows anglers to make quick work of pinching heavy barbs, removing delicate dry flies, cutting braid, clipping light tippet, and everything in between. They come housed in a durable rubber holster and include a Quickdraw Tool Tether, making them easy to store on any pack, belt or even a pair of board shorts.

Apex HD Plier

Robust enough to be the only plier on the boat but light enough to be clipped comfortably to board shorts, the Apex HD Plier is the perfect companion for any outing involving big flies and big fish. Constructed of lightweight aluminum, housed in a durable rubber sheath and secured with a coated steel-core tether, the entire system can withstand salt, neglect, heavy use and abuse. The built-in cutter will handle whatever you thrown at it, and truly makes these the only tool that is necessary for a big day of chasing big predators.

Apex Needle Nose Plier

When the name of the game is to keep your fingers as far away from those teeth as possible or you need to reach a fly where fingers or lesser tools can’t, the Apex Needle Nose Plier are just the solution. The extra large design allows anglers to handle fish in a way that is safe for both fish and angler, and the ridged rubber handle offers increased grip even with wet hands and tense situations.

Apex Hook Remover

Toothy predators are all fun and games until you want to retrieve your fly. The Apex Hook Remover expedites the removal of flies in situations where using a lesser tool would be unsafe for both fish and angler. Constructed of lightweight aluminum, it is easy to carry, easy to use, and ensures the safest possible release of a fish.

Fly Tying Mat

The solution for tyers who spend most of their time at the vise looking for tools rather than tying flies. Whether the goal is to production tie a dozen Copper Johns in an hour or to simply come back to a tidy station, the neatly divided compartments allow tyers to develop a system for keeping tools and prepared materials organized. The silicone construction is easy to clean with 4 magnetic compartments, perfect for keeping hooks and beads in place. For the nomadic tyer who doesn’t have a dedicated space, the Tying Mat turns a standard size sheet pan into a mobile tying station.

Ergo Prime Scissor 5”

A large, premium pair of scissors that is the kind of sharp you only see on infomercials at 2 am. The broad blades offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate tyers with extra large fingers, and include a removable Precision Peg for unmatched control. These are an excellent pair of scissors for working with big materials and tying big flies, and the blades are honed to perfection in the USA.

Ergo Prime Scissor 6”

A large, premium pair of scissors that is the kind of sharp you only see on infomercials at 2 am. The broad blades offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate tyers with extra large fingers, and include a removable Precision Peg for unmatched control. These are an excellent pair of scissors for working with big materials and tying big flies, and the blades are honed to perfection in the USA.

Ergo Prime Curved Shears

Curved to make quick work of shaping large baitfish patterns with broad blades that offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate tyers with extra large fingers, and include a removable Precision Peg for unmatched control. These are an excellent pair of scissors for working with big materials and tying big flies, and the blades are honed to perfection in the USA.

Ergo Prime Tapering Shears

Including one blade with teeth and one without, these shears allow tyers to thin or taper materials without leaving distinct lines. The broad blades offer a stouter feel and increased stability, regardless of what you’re cutting. The oversized handles are ergonomically designed to accommodate tyers with extra large fingers, and include a removable Precision Peg which offers unmatched control. The blades are honed to perfection in the USA.

Easily click your spare system foams into your fly box for firm attachment.

- Trout Guide Box L -

Although a boat box has become indispensable for drift boat fishing, the problems caused by storing all the flies you have in a large box are serious. Fishing when you get off the boat, unexplored fishing spots where you walk on the trail, and in such situations, it solves the trouble of moving small flies stuck in a boat box one by one to a portable fly box. C&F DESIGN’s boat box is the only system that can easily solve such a “hook problem”.

Attached foam: For L size trout System foam [3 streamers / 3 attractors / 3 standard / 3 midges ].

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Attached foam: For M size trout ・System foam [2 streamers / 2 attractors / 2 standard / 2 midges ] and system foam for S size trout [2 streamers / 2 attractors / 2 standard / 2 midges].

- Grand Slam Box L -

A large boat box for saltwater that can be used by removing the attached system foam and shifting to a small fly case. You can customise the system for each foam for each pattern, such as baitfish, crab, and shrimp. When you find a tailing and get off the boat to approach it, the problem caused by storing all the flies you have in a big box is serious. In such a situation, we solved the trouble of transferring small flies stuck in a boat box to a portable fly box one by one. C&F DESIGN’s boat box is the only system that can easily solve such a “hook problem”.

Attached foam: L size saltwater system foam [6 tarpons / 3 permits / 3 bonefish].

- Grand Slam Box S/M -

Attached foam: For small and medium foam inserts. Comes attached with the following foam: S/M size saltwater system foam [8 bonefish / 8 permit].

Universal Waterproof System Case

The Universal Waterproof System cases can be fine-tuned according to your specific requirements and preferences. These boxes come with a locking system into which you can insert one of the inter-changeable Universal System Foam patches (sold separately).

Universal System Foam

Foam inserts for C&F Design’s System Cases. Customize your setup according to the flies you use and the venues you fish.

Regular Waterproof Series

The go-to fly box for the ambitious and organized fly fisherman - with C&F Design’s original micro-slit foam that revolutionized fly boxes, when it was first introduced.

STREAMER

Available sizes: S, M, L

Available Colours:

ATTRACTOR

Available sizes: S, M, L

Available Colours:

STANDARD

Available sizes: S, M, L

Available Colours:

MIDGE

Available sizes: S, M, L

Available Colours:

DRY FLY DROPPER

Available sizes: S, M, L

Available Colours:

THREADER

Available sizes: S, M, L Available Colours:

SALTWATER - TARPON

Available sizes: S, M, L Available Colours:

SALTWATER - PERMIT

Available sizes: S, M, L Available Colours:

SALTWATER - BONEFISH

Available sizes: S, M, L Available Colours:

Accessories / Streamside / Fly Tying

C&F Design offers a vast array of innovative tools and accessories that have been designed to offer you flawless functionality and ease-of-use, whether on the river or in your fly tying room.

MAGNETIC OVAL FLY PATCH

A Magnetic Fly Patch with a strong neosium magnet on the main body that holds flies safely tight. Perfect for changing and drying flies.

UNIVERSAL SYSTEM CHEST STORAGE

Chest storage has evloved with foam changer feature. Two of System Foams used in a boat box or universal fly case can be swithched onto the main body. In addition to two System Foams, it includes flip with two microslit foams therefore sufficient storage space in compact / portable size. When you want to fish lightly or when you are carrying a daypack, this is the perfect system for ease of use.

LANYARD WITH UNIVERSAL SYSTEM FLY PATCH

This lanyard combines with a small-sized universal fly patch with a convenient foam changer. Use the attached snaps to hang your favorite accessories such as clippers and floatants. A dedicated tippet holder that can be used through the leader material spool is also included, so you can enjoy fishing lightly. By attaching a landing net or license holder (sold separately) behind your neck, you can reduce the burden on your neck and use it in a well-balanced manner.

UNIVERSAL SYSTEM FLY PATCH - S/M/L

A large fly patch with a foam changer that can be hung from the neck. Remove the system foam set in the boat box or system case and set one on your chest for easy use. There is no need to prepare separate flies for boating and wading. Comes with a neck strap that can be used for both 2-point and 1-point hanging. By using the standard foam changer, you can use the system foam that stores frequently used flies on your chest.

3-IN-1 CLIPPER

Three-in-one clipper is a unique accessory that combines frequently used clippers, threaders, and eye cleaners into one. When using the threader, pull it out from the main body as shown in the figure. The threader can be removed.

SPARE CUTTER BLADES

Spare blades for the 3-in1 Line Clipper.

FISH EYE

C&F CFT-10 Fish Eye employs the theory of the critical angle of refraction to inspect a fly from a fish’s point of view. You can easily observe the inside / outside of the fly’s fish window as seen from the fish’s eyes on the tying desk with a mirror and water. It is ideal for checking the fly you have tied yourself and for tying demonstrations Fish Eye is a product that uses the principle of the critical angle of refraction of water and air.

TOOL STAND

A great fly tying tool stand in precision cut foam, including 6 pegs for tying threads and different dimension hole sizes for different tools; scissors, bobbins, glues, threaders etc. etc.

THE JOINT POP-UP PRAWN FLY TYING:

With just the right amount of weight and buoyancy, the jointed Pop-Up Prawn is designed to be fished on (or near) the bottom coming alive with even the smallest twitches. It’s a fly that works equally well for European species such seatrout, seabass, and brackish perch and tropical saltwater fish such as permit, bonefish, and triggerfish.

Materials

Hook: Light saltwater hook, Ahrex 280 or similar (#6-10)

Thread: Veevus G02 100D, White

Feelers/Antennae: Salmon-coloured spey hackle + Tan Crystal Flash

Legs: Centipede Legs, speckled white-brown

Claws: Tan CDC Feathers

Body: Tan STF Dubbing

Body Hackle: Salmon-coloured spey hackle

Shell: Salmon-coloured foam + Pro Sportfisher Shrimp Shell, Gen-II

UV-resin: Thin Loon UV-resin

Shank: Spawn Super Shank 9mm

Weight: Presentation Dumbell Eyes 1/50oz, XS

There are thousands of different shrimp species to be found across the globe - in both freshwater- and saltwater habitats. Some of them are the size of grown men’s hands, while others are so small, they’re hardly visible. Some come in the most vivid of colours, while others blend stealthily in with their surroundings. Some of them live in the cold and dark depths of the ocean, while others cling to shallow, sunlit flats and shallows. What all of them have in common, however, is that they’re vibrant, fluttering crustaceans perfectly adapted to their local habitats, high on protein, and - not least - a highly sought-after prey item for a myriad of different predatory fish species.

Some of the pickiest saltwater fish on the planet, including triggerfish and permit, eat shrimp. And so do more homely species such as seatrout, brackish perch, and seabass. I have targeted them all and have found that, sometimes, these predators get very selective and particular when it comes to shrimp. And when they do, your fly - and how it moves and fishes, becomes the difference between success and failure.

For lethargic brackish perch clinging to the bottom during the winter months, a life-like shrimp pattern crawling along the bottom can be deadly. And the same goes for tailing permit, bonefish, and triggerfish on the sun-bathed flats of the Indian Ocean.

The Joint Pop-Up Prawn is designed to sink and crawl along the bottom with a front body - legs, antennae, head and all - that pops up and flutters. It’s tied using a small shank, precision-weighted with a pair of dumbell eyes, and a small saltwater hook mounted with buoyant foam that makes for an upside-down fly that doesn’t snag unto bottom structure.

The fly has great movement due to the jointed construction and the very lively materials; the CDC feathers and spey hackles. And as a result - and much because of its realistic looks - it can be fished very slowly across the bottom and still be deadly efficient. It even fishes when you long-pause your retrieve as the foam joint and materials will keep pulsating with the turbulence of the water.

Obviously, the fly can also be fished pelagically - for seatrout, seabass, and other saltwater predator fish. When fished on a floating line with aggresive, short pulls, the fly will danse and flutter - legs, feelers, and pinchers bouncing and wiggling enticingly all over the place.

The fly even fishes when you long-pause your retrieve

Using

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firmly in place.

UV-glue

FAILURE is not an option

ABSOLUTE TIPPET

40% stronger

UP TO WET-KNOT STRENGTH THAN PREMIUM COMPETITION

Database of Endangered Species

The Huchen was once wide-spread across the Danube basin. Because it is sensitive to hydropower development, the species is now endangered. Today, about 65% of its range is on the Balkan Peninsula. However, these rivers are severely threatened by dams.

The Huchen is only one of 113 endangered species in Balkans Rivers. We at Riverwatch are fighting to protect these last sanctuaries. Find more rare fish species, their distribution area and conservation status at balkanrivers.net/en/fish-database

www.riverwatch.eu | facebook.com/riverwatchAUT

www.balkanrivers.net | facebook.com/balkanrivers instagram.com/blueheartrivers

DO YOU TRUST YOUR TIPPET?

Whether