Fly Fishing Gear

Fly Fishing Gear and Equipment Reviews from Montana.

Dry Fly Leaders and Tippets

Dry Fly Leaders: Please Add Tippet

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Some high-tech dry fly fishing is just around the corner here on the Missouri River, and a little discussion about leader design and tippet length is in order.

The leader can be the most important element to any dry fly rig. For most anglers it’s the weakest link (though we see some awful ratty fly lines as well). Leaders can also create quite a discussion in the shop, and many misunderstand how “factory” leaders are designed and how best to use them. If you build your own leaders, you can stop right here. This will all be information you figured out long ago.

I’ll skip to the end by asking a question:

Q: How much tippet do you use when you are technical dry fly fishing? (We’re talking long leaders, 5X, PMD’s Trico’s Etc.).

If you’re answer is less than 3 feet – and most anglers I see are using less than 2 – you’re really hurting yourself when targeting flat water trout on the Missouri, Henry’s Fork, Silver Creek, etc. I generally use 3 – 5 feet of tippet on technical flatwater fisheries. Hopefully my tippet is “invisible” to the trout, and I want that invisible section to be as large as possible.

Long tippets also land softer, allow a small fly to drift more naturally, mend with less disturbance and – depending on brand and material – may increase the amount of stretch or “shock absorption” in your leader (generally a good thing).

I am often amazed at the length of tippet I see on customers rods, especially when combined with a longer than 9 foot leader. I commonly see folks come in the shop with less than a foot of tippet. This person is often coming in asking why the fish won’t eat the fly we recommended. It’s also the same guy who ties 5X to 1X with some kind of sailboat knot.

Other customers worry about and debate the length of the factory leader to buy, yet don’t give any though to how long the “tippet” section of that factory leader is. I’ve only been asked how long the ‘factory” tippet section is a few times in my life. The general answer to that question is – not long enough!

I always add tippet to my leader (yes, even brand new ones), and I don’t know any proficient technical dry fly anglers who do not. And while some folks think it’s ridiculous that I add 4 feet of 5X to my 9′ leader, I know guys who add 6 feet or more. Just depends on their personal experience and the situation they are presented with.

Let take a look at how factory leaders are tapered. I’m speaking very generally here. A long time ago, they were built on some kind of 30/30/30 variation (33% butt, 33% taper, 33% tippet). They looked something like this:[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”18869″ align=”center”][vc_column_text]These leaders didn’t cast great at longer distances or push big flies into the wind, but they actually did have enough tippet built into them to use. The rods and lines of 20-30 years ago weren’t going to get out there as far or as fast either.

Then some genius figured out that like a fly line, you could build more aggressive tapers into leaders and make them perform better at distance and in the wind. They started to look more like a 50/25/25 design:[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”18871″ align=”center”][vc_column_text]These new designs coincided with the popularity of large, wind resistant foam attractors, ginormous streamers, and the double nymph rig. They were needed. While turnover, speed, accuracy and power were all achieved, something had to give. And what gave was the amount of tippet, as manufacturers apparently want to keep the leaders at a 9′ standard (I assume this is based on the 9’ fly rod?)

I am now starting to see leaders that appear to have a 60/30/10 design, or what I think of as “tippet-less” leaders. They are incredibly powerful and will turnover flies that formerly required an 8 weight. But they literally have no tippet and look something like this:[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”18884″ align=”center”][vc_column_text]OK, they do have a little bit of tippet on the end, but to me it’s really a short “attachment” section. These powerful leaders will turn over a very long tippet (much longer than the old 30/30/30 leaders), and I view them as a starting point. I am always going to add some tippet to my leader. I generally buy these tapered to one size larger than my intended tippet (I’ll buy a 9′ 4X and add 5X).

I’m not criticizing manufacturers. I’ve always added tippet, and these new “power-tapers” turn over long tippets much better than a 1990 leader. I love the performance, but for technical dry fly fishing adding tippet is a must. I am also more confident in my tippet spool than whatever mystery tippet is on the end of that factory leader.

The good news is that these newer tapered leaders are great for guys like me. I can add as much tippet as I want and they will still perform. The bad news is that they have so little tippet built in that they are virtually unusable out of the package. I would use them out of the box in larger sizes (1X-3X) for floating line streamer fishing or high-water Salmonflies, but never for August Trico’s, or much else for that matter. I do not get the impression that many customers are aware of this. Bad on fly shops and manufacturers for providing so little information.

So when you’re thinking about your leader, don’t think about the finished length out of the package, think about the finished length after you add tippet. I am typically shooting for a leader in the 13-15 foot range, so I have no problem buying the 9′ standard and adding 4′-5′ of tippet. While I often fish leaders in the 15 foot range, I don’t buy them that long unless I’m shooting for that 20 foot leader.

Increased tippet length combined with proper presentations will result in more takes, and hopefully more fish in your net.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

WHAT ABOUT TIPPET?

Another frequent and related conversation around the shop is centered around brand and type of tippet for technical dry fly fishing. Let’s start with type. Mono/Nylon vs Fluorocarbon.

I personally use nylon for most of my dry fly fishing. I like how limp it is, helping me get a good long natural drift. I also like the stretch when I’m into a good fish on light tippet. If I want it to sink I add a little sink agent like Xink. I made that choice years ago when Flouro first came to the market. Back then, it was way stiffer than nylon (too stiff), somewhat difficult to knot, and sank. You might argue that flies didn’t float as well then. I didn’t really need to help them sink. Some of that probably was – and probably still is – in my head.

I know many anglers today that use fluorocarbon for technical dry fly fishing, including the guys at Trouthunter who A. make one of the most popular fluorocarbon tippet materials, and B. live and fish on arguably the toughest dry fly fishing water around.

There is the argument that fluorocarbon sinks and doesn’t throw a shadow that fish will see. This is something that I often experienced when I began guiding on Silver Creek, ID many years ago. I’ve never found the Missouri River trout to be that sensitive to tippet, so I continue to roll nylon successfully. But if I fished on the Railroad Ranch daily I might have a different opinion. So do what you want, but I think this decision is more important than what brand.

As far as brand, I think it’s pretty tough to buy “bad” tippet these days. RIO, Scientific Anglers and Orvis have all introduced a new nylon/mono to the market this year, each touting theirs over the others. Trouthunter is excellent and one of the biggest sellers in our shop, especially among guides. They all seem pretty good to me. The most important thing – as stated above – is to use lots of it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Sage PULSE Video

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Sage PULSE Video

The Sage PULSE video featuring Mark from Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana.

Come in and test one out if you wish. We love both the Sage PULSE 590-4 and the 690-4. Perfect rods for the Missouri River or your river.

Graphite IIIe will remind you of your favorite rod. Why not make new memories with a new Sage PULSE.

Headhunters is the place for your next fly fishing visit. The fly shop has all you need for the Missouri River and beyond. One stop lodging, guiding, rental boats, Sage fly rods, including the most contemporary fly selection in Montana.

Enjoy the Sage PULSE Video today on the Headhunters Blog.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/162552341″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Missouri River Fly Line Source is Headhunters in Craig - Headhunters Fly Shop

Missouri River Fly Line Source is Headhunters in Craig

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Missouri River Fly Line Source In downtown Craig Montana you will find your Missouri River Fly Line Source. You can judge a fly shop by a ton of different parameters like customer service, friendliness, accurate information, the attention to detail in the fly department, the sheer number of flies, the clothing lines, rod selection…but I have … Read more

Do Drift Boat Anglers need Waders?

Do Drift Boat Anglers need Waders?

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Do Drift Boat Anglers need Waders? In the past few years most of the Headhunters Guides have gone this route when they can. Sans waders. Of course we wear waders many, many days throughout the season. But if you are going to spend most of the day in the boat, and not enjoy the … Read more

Sage MOD Rod Review

Sage MOD Rod Review

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Sage MOD Rod Review A short Sage MOD Rod Review today from the Missouri River. The latest rod introductions from Sage include the MOD, BOLT, and the PULSE. The PULSE has been the sales winner for us at Headhunters. A couple reasons for that fact. Mid priced and reminiscent of the the Sage XP. … Read more

New Abel Reels in Stock

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We’ve just received a new batch of new graphics from Abel, and also a NEW REEL! Yes, the long awaited for Abel SD (Sealed Drag) reel is here, and we have two in stock, We actually received a couple late last summer. They both lasted about 2 hours in the reel case before they were spotted and purchased.

New for 2016 is the Derek DeYoung Cutthroat Flank, which doesn’t really look like a Cutthroat to me, but the colors are absolutely incredible. it would look great with a wide variety of fly rods. Impressive. Probably my favorite trout skin from Derek.

The new SD reels we have ordered in a straight color with Brown Trout graphics on the drag knob. A little more subtle and less artsy than the traditional “all-over” fish skins on the Super Series.

Check them out in the Online store. They always go fast, and it takes a while to resupply.[/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”SHOP ABEL REELS” color=”primary” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct-category%2Ffly-reels%2Fabel-reels%2F|title:SHOP%20ABEL%20REELS|”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Snowshoe Midge

Top 10 Tailwater Midge Flies

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Top 10 Tailwater Midge Flies These Top 10 February Top 10 Tailwater Midge Flies are sure to please your Missouri River fancy. The midge hatch has begun in ernest and manny anglers are asking about the correct midge patterns to toss at our February rising trout. The hot times to fish for midge feeding … Read more

Montana troutspey

In Defense of Switch Lines…. Just Kidding.

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lately I’ve seen a resurgence in the dreaded “switch” line. Particularly on newer spey rigs purchased regionally. At our last clinic there were no less than 3 new outfits present rigged with switch lines. All were recommended as part of a rod/reel/line kit from where they were purchased. All 3 left the clinic optimized for spey casting with standard Skagit or Scandi shooting heads, and happier owners.

I’ve been bashing switch lines for years, and thought I had gotten in front of the disease. Apparently it has emerged as a new strain that is more resistant to my opinion. Or maybe just more folks are buying their spey gear in the Northern Rockies, where it’s less likely you’ll run into a knowledgeable spey technician, than in, say, Portland or Seattle.

While I’ll admit that in the last 2 years I have finally seen some useable switch lines, they still represent such a huge compromise that there is no way I can recommend them, nor have I ever met an experienced caster who prefers them over Spey lines. Or even uses them.

So let’s back up quickly, and review what these lines are designed for…

The term “switch” was first applied to rods short and light enough to be used as a single hander, and long enough to be used for spey casting. Remember that at the time a 13′ #7 spey rod was considered small, so the jump down to 11 feet was drastic. The problem was that no lines existed that would perform spey casts on these new rods. And if they did, you certainly could have used those lines on your single handed 9′ 5 weight to spey cast. So really, these were just shorter spey rods, and it baffles me why they didn’t refer to them as that. By building “switch rods”, however, manufacturers unwittingly sped up the trend towards shorter and lighter two-handed rods. In fact we’ve now reached the point where the difference in length between a “switch” rod and a “spey” rod is measured in inches, not feet.

Instead of designing much needed short-head spey lines for this new category of rods, manufacturers decided to match the new lines to the term, instead of the rod and the customers demand. Also, some of the rods were “overhead” 6 weights, and some were “spey” 6 weights. So we ended up with a bunch of switch rods and switch lines that had no consistency in length, taper, or grains across the industry. Nobody had a clue how to design a line that could perform powerful spey casts and act as a traditional overhead fly line. Because it can’t really be done. More on that later.

Now 5 years ago, there were still some folks around talking “switch”. The idea that you could spey cast down through a run, then turn around and upstream fish back up in single handed fashion (with the same fly line). But those that tried quickly found out that; a) most switch lines were terrible spey lines; b) spey lines are way too heavy to single hand cast effectively, and c) throwing dry flies on a switch rod sucks.

But for each angler I talked to looking for a true switch set-up, I talked to 100 who were looking for a small spey rod. I really don’t hear the “switch” discussion anymore, although there are no doubt rivers – or more likely runs – that do benefit from the ability to do this quickly with one outfit. But like I said, you could do it with your 9′ 5 weight with the right line (Wulff Ambush). And while I do run into folks who ended up with a switch line as part of their new Spey kit, few of them asked for it. Simply a case of an uninformed salesman innocently matching up the rod, reel and line out of the catalog. In other words, if you ask for a switch rod – and don’t ask for a particular line – you may well end up with a switch line.

You’re hearing what sounds like a little fly shop criticism here. In reality, I’m pointing out the fact that we live in Montana, and nobody should expect every fly shop employee in the region (and no Big-Box) to be an authority on Spey lines. Just like you shouldn’t expect a Montana fly shop employee to be an expert at rigging billfish leaders. Or a Florida fly shop employee to know what Gink is. Many of them need a little direction from you.

Back to the Clinic…

So, back to our last clinic and 3 poorly lined rigs. The first two were matching off-brand rod,reel,line outfits. They were good rods, termed “switch”, and were lined up with very long belly “switch” lines with heads past 50 feet long. The owners said they performed flawlessly while overhead casting nymph rigs, but they couldn’t seem to spey cast them at all. No doubt. Neither could I. Felt like sewing thread. For these two I went to the other end of the spectrum and quickly rigged them both up with short Skagit heads from OPST and Airflo. Both rod owners loved them, and quickly picked up a couple of spey casts now that they could feel the line doing it’s thing. They also quickly realized that they needed two reels and lines for their rods, as they wanted to continue to use the switch line for single handed casting. An Echo Ion reel for $79 solved that problem.

They also went out and swung several nice Missouri River trout after our clinic on the Skagit head/sink-tip/streamer combo.

The second rod was the Orvis Clearwater switch with the Orvis Hydros Switch Line. I have cast this line quite a bit, and consider it one of the best of the switch lines (second to the Wulff Ambush). It is a true 50/50 compromise – unlike the above example – and performs spey casts much better with it’s shorter, heavier head. But it’s still a massive compromise. Look at it this way, it casts both spey and overhead, but it also performs both styles of casting half as well. This angler could feel what was going on better than the other two, but could not get the power to transfer from his hands to the line. This is because ALL switch lines are underlined compared to their Spey cousins (or all Spey lines are overlined). They have to be so that overhead casts can be performed.

Gary Sandstrom, designer of the Wulff Ambush lines understands this:

Typically a good starting point for switch rods is an Ambush 8 weight (290 grains) will load a 5 weight switch rod, Ambush 9 for a 6wt switch and a Ambush 10 for a 7wt switch (rated for spey application). If the rod is a true single hand, then just match the same Ambush line weight to the rod line weight.

So, Sandstrom and Wulff say +3 line sizes for Spey, and stay at recommended for traditional overhead casting and rods. Thats a massive difference in grains, and is the reason that designing a switch line that performs well in both disciplines is nearly impossible.

This angler was interested in accurate and powerful spey casting, and understood the technique. Looking around I think he quickly realized that the switch line was not going to provide the performance of a true shooting head. He asked me if he should try a Scandi head before I could even bring it up. After rigging it up, he didn’t really have to change much. His technique was already solid. If anything he powered down, as he now had a properly balanced outfit and a line he didn’t have to fight. Booming casts out there with control and ease.

Lesson: If you want to spey cast, get a Spey line.

But remember, the problem was that the right lines didn’t exist for these shorter rods. We often ended up with shooting heads a touch too long and lacking the ability to add – and turnover – a sink tip and large streamer. Finally, we are now seeing the extremely short head spey lines to match these shorter rods perfectly. These new lines are also built in ultralight weights for the new generation of “Micro” or “Ultra-light” spey rods that range from 2 to 4 weight. No line has been more popular at our shop this year than the OPST Commando Skagit heads. These have been designed from the ground up for shorter spey rods, and lengths range from 12′-18′ and 150-475grains. I would call customer satisfaction 100%, and I would include our shop staff in that. Airflow makes the Skagit Compact Switch (hate that name), which is a great line but substantially longer at 19′-20′. RIO makes the Skagit Trout Max, which is best for very short rods with it’s 11′ head length, and is only available in the lightest grain weights. These are all Skagit heads that require the addition of a tip (floating or sinking), and have the ability to fish deep and throw large-ish flies.

Now we just wait for the 18′ Scandi head I hope to see from someone this summer.

So, forget the term “switch”. Throw it away. If you’re on this site reading this post, you’re likely looking for a smaller spey rod used for Spey casting for trout and other resident fish. If so, you probably live around fisheries that you fish with a single hander and a bobber all the time. Why would you look for a spey rod to do that with?

And if you do want to roll a “switch” rig, I recommend you stick with a single handed rod, and perform single-handed spey casts with a short head line like the Wulff Ambush (18′). If you want to swing streamers on foot, and strip them from the boat, the OPST Commando is an excellent choice, and we are selling those heads for that purpose as well. None of the switch or spey lines are useable for technical dry fly fishing.

Most importantly, find a local fly shop rat who knows the spey game. And they don’t need decades of experience in the Skeena drainage to be of assistance. It means he or she has educated themselves when it comes to spey gear – in particular lines – and are enthusiastic about and practice two-handed fishing.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Galvan Torque Reels

Galvan Torque Reels – The Elegant Workhorse

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Galvan Torque Reels – The Elegant Workhorse Ed. Note: Shane has been with Headhunters for about a year. He and his wife Kelly are here for the long haul. A former Henry’s Fork angler and employee Shane loves the Missouri. It has become his favorite river. Shane will be in the shop this season … Read more

YETI Hopper

YETI Hopper 20qt & 30qt

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YETI Hopper @ Headhunters Fly Shop

 

While many of you already own a YETI hard sided cooler some of you cannot stay away from the soft sided Hopper.

We agree. A fabulous overpriced item again from YETI. And amazingly popular.

What is not to like. A water tight bomb-proof 20 qt or 30 qt soft sided YETI Cooler that is difficult to keep in stock.

YETI’s are known for being indestructible and keeping things cold. And the Hopper 20 and 30 are no exception. It’s the first 100% leakproof portable cooler that’s built for the long haul and is insulated to keep ice for days. It’s reliable. It’s convenient. Easy to carry and designed for those on the go. It’s well-suited for a weekend at the ranch, a BYOB dinner at the Salt Lick, 18 holes on the golf course, or a day fly fishing on the water. Not your ordinary soft-sided cooler. And like all YETI products, built for the wild.

A damn good item to host and hold your YETI cold soda or beer. A couple sando’s or a block of smoked cheddar and a solid stick of Soppressata Salami to get you through those dry fly sessions. Perfect for the drift boat, your Freestone raft, your fishing kayak, or your Stand Up Paddle-board.

Stop in or call us for a YETI Hopper 20 qt or 30 qt. We will ship it anywhere you desire.[/vc_column_text][us_grid columns=”3″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”16768,16683,16682″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”4px” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_600_600_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”3″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”3″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/116667042″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”3″ orderby=”title” order=”” ids=”9071, 9102, 11727″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

ECHO Gecko

Get your kids an ECHO Gecko

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The #1 selling kids rod in the World! The reason? Because it is clearly the best tool for your kids. Bar None!

The common conversation among parents who are looking to get their children into fly fishing goes something like this…

You know I have an old 4 weight that I bought for my wife. She doesn’t use it much so I thought I would give it to my son/daughter. Should be a perfect starter rod for little Billy/Becky.

Does your wife like the 4 weight?

No, not really.

Do you like that 4 weight?

No, not really.

So you think your kid is gonna like it?

ECHO GeckoWe strongly suggest your kid uses a rod that is made for kids. It would be analogous to strapping  old skis your wife did not like under your kids feet. Wouldn’t you rather put skis made for kids. Designed for their skill set. A pair of skis that enables the correct path of learning?

I think the answer would be a resounding yes!

ECHO GeckoThe ECHO Gecko is just that rod. A rod designed for the success of your favorite fly fisher. It is fun too. Yellow with a fun colored grip that is properly sized for younger hands. Shorter in length for the proper swing weight. Manufactured withe the correct flies pattern to encourage a proper casting stroke. The Gecko is softer, more progressively flexing than the super-fast tip flex rods that we so love as adults.

It is made, designed, created for youthful casting and fishing success. So your kid will enjoy fishing. That is the goal. Right?

We do sell a ton of these kids rods. Coming in at $100 you cannot go wrong. Many parents get the ECHO Gecko early in their kids life. From age 4-5 til 10-12 the ECHO Gecko will enable fish coming to the net. And Smiles.

Smiles are important. 

We sell the ECHO Gecko most often as a package. Easy to get into at $135. It comes with all you need for your kid. The Gecko rod a 7’9″ 4/5 weight rod in a cool yellow Cordura rod tube. The ECHO Solo reel lined up with an Airflo Velocity line. A perfect starter set for your fly fishing all-star. You will not age out of the rod for years. You may replace the fly line with a top notch one after the initial beating that all kids products initially endure. The rod is absolutely bomb-proof!

GECKO Rods feature:

  • 3 piece travel design
  • Alignment dots for quick assembly
  • WIld colored EVA extra small diameter full wells handle
  • 2″ EVA fighting butt
  • Fuji-style fast tighten reel seat
  • Bright yellow gloss blank with orange thread wraps
  • Hard chrome snake guides
  • Rod sock and tough rod tube
  • ECHO lifetime warranty

Give us a shout if you want to gift your kid with their first favorite rod. Sell that old 4 weight your wife doesn’t like on Ebay. Why not use the proceeds from that sale to get the Gecko! We will pop one in the mail today for your child’s next birthday.

Take your kid fishing this year. It will be good for both of you. Really good.

ECHO Gecko

Just Add Vise Zebra Kit

Just Add Vise Zebra Kit

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Just Add Vise Zebra Kit

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ninch wanted me to shout this out to our Headhunters followers. The Zebra Midge I said? It’s so simple and easy to tie. Why would we post this on our blog. While we love Trout Fishing 101 I thought that it was old news.

Ninch nodded then explained to me that while it is an easy fly to tie it is still an important daily, weekly, staple pattern that we all should have in our box. Not only the simple traditional black Zebra but other flavors as well.

Ninch said that this kit while coming with the standard 25 hooks that all JAV kits include it has the addition of 4 thread colors. Black, red, olive, and purple. Find yourself a few boxes of size 20 hooks and spin ’em up.

Ninch also said that if you tie up all the thread in this kit the per fly cost falls below the 50 cent mark. Well below.

Ninch then said that if you switch up wire colors you can now create literally dozens of patterns. Add mylar, tinsel, or any number of different synthetics to the game and the possibilities are endless for midge creation.

So I said to Ninch, “Why don’t you write a blog about it?” He shook his head, paused, then nodded towards me. In Ninch silent speak that clearly meant that I would be writing the blog.

Ninch wins again.

Buy the Zebra Midge Just Add Vise kit below or here on the on-line store.

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% SIMMS Winter Favorites

5 SIMMS Winter Favorites

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5 SIMMS Winter Favorites

It really has been a cold winter. As winer should be. Most days we see temperatures in the mid 20’s with occasional days in the mid 30’s. If a fella wants to fish he needs to have the right winter fishing gear. Or go home.

SIMMS provides that kind of gear. And Headhunters has the winter gear for your winter fly fishing successes!

Simms Bulkley

SIMMS Bulkley Jacket

My favorite item this year. Been wearing it all winter long and cannot go fishing without it. The warmth of the Bulkley jacket is the key. The Primaloft insulation is key. In the body and in the sleeves. A bit oversized so you can layer appropriately underneath the jacket. Internal Shingle Cuff keeps this jacket water tight while fighting, landing and releasing fish into the water. A must have for those looking for a new updated insulated Gore-Tex winter jacket!

SIMMS Kinetic Jacket

We knew this was a winner when the Headhunters guides all walked in and bought this jacket of the rack. And we see them in it daily all winter long. A good piece for daily wear. Headed out of the house to chop firewood? Out tot he lake ice fishing? Off to Tom’s IGA in Cascade for a half box of Coors Light? They are all donning the SIMMS Kinetic Jacket.

The Simms Kinetic has become a guide staple in Montana. And if all the guides are wearing it you can believe it’s touch and performs, probably beyond expectations. This “puffy on steroids” is comfortable, very warm and does not restrict movement. We consider it essential from September through May in Montana, and we always make sure it’s in our bag for any trips to Steelhead country. Worth every penny in our estimation.

SIMMS 5 for Winter

SIMMS G3 Waders

The industry standard in waders. The reason you see more SIMMS Waders on anglers than any other brand? Because they don’t leak. While you can get a deal on some of those off brand waders, the fit and function of SIMMS Waders is undisputed. The Choice of Fishing Professionals Worldwide. Headhunters carries 22 sizes of the most popular SIMMS wader. Come in and get the right fit. Not many fly shops can boast that stat!

Powered by 25-percent more breathable GORE-TEX® 5-layer Pro Shell fabric, Simms’ G3 wader just got revamped for a lifetime of in-river marching orders. Wrap raw hands in the convenience of a reach-through warming pocket with stormflaps and micro-fleece lining, then reach for everything you need for successful fishing missions via an intuitive zippered chest pocket design, with integrated utility tabs that house an arsenal of in-river essentials. Patented front and back leg seam construction delivers an articulated fit that fights wear zones, bolsters wader longevity, and maximizes mobility either in the drift boat or hiking for riches well beyond road’s end.

SIMMS Guide Mid Pant

The best bottom layer that SIMMS has produced. In previous versions it wore more like your dads sweat pants. Not so with the SIMMS Guide Mid Pant. Updated fit & 4-way abrasion-resistant stretch fleece offers better warmth, breathability, mobility & wicking performance. The narrow fitted bottom of the legging slips effortlessly into your waders allowing no binding at the boot level. The bottom line on these fabulous pants is just a better wader pant. Zippered side and back pockets hold your needed items safe along with the zip fly make this the best wader pant on the market.

SIMMS 5 for WinterSIMMS ProDry Glove

The new Simms ProDry Glove is quickly becoming a favorite for winter fly fishing in Montana. The GoreTex shell is insulated and keeps your hands toasty and dry. The removable fingerless liner is perfect for those times when line management or tying knots demands some extra dexterity. We wear the whole glove when rowing or humping it through the snow, and remove the outer shell and use the fingerless liners when we’re fishing. You could also use a variety of liners if you have a favorite. The lining of the shells is slick enough to accommodate most liner gloves. You’ll probably see a few of us wearing these in the lift line as well. Mark and John like them for winter photography.

Ninch is the leading proponent of the SIMMS ProDry Glove. He just loves them. With the inner glove coming out for tying flies, fixing leaders, and greasing dry flies these gloves are for the other 3 seasons of Montana angling. Never leave home without them. The Gore-Tex outer glove keeps away those biting winter elements for continued fishing when your buddies head for the bar.

Headhunters is your exclusive SIMMS dealer on the Missouri River. We have a store full of the best in SIMMS products including all sizes of G3 waders. We are a destination store with our focus centered on what you may need for your time here on the Missouri River. Check us out on our on-line store for anything you may need for your trout fishing game![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid columns=”4″ orderby=”title” order=”” ids=”6756, 6650, 8918, 8993″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Spey Resource – Deneki Outdoors

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Spey junkies are constantly hounding us for opinions, info, gear reviews, line recommendations and technical advice. I don’t think everyone who stops by or emails a question needs an answer. They just want to get a discussion going. It’s winter after all. We’re all swinging two-handers and relishing the solitude. Or is it too much solitude? Maybe we do need a little camaraderie?

We don’t mind the questions. Spey fishing and equipment is something we talk about all day at the shop. Even when you’re not there. And we also like to recommend some of our own favorite resources for customers to check out. I think Dewey and Braden have watched every one of Ed Ward & Jerry French’s OPST videos. Ten times, and totally justified. Technicians Sara and Ben have studied spey focused blogs like Deneki for years, and continue to promote them as a resource for our customers.

Most of our customers are aware of Deneki Outdoors and their prominent website and blog. Deneki operates several camps in Alaska, BC and the Bahamas. Two of their camps are particularly noted as spey fishing destinations. BC West (Dean River) and AK West (Kanektok River). Both of the fisheries are storied for fishing the two-hander. The Dean River is almost mythical among Steelheaders. A place I feel fortunate to have fished several times. The guides AK West were integral in popularizing spey fishing for Chinook (King) Salmon, as well as the other species of Pacific Salmon and big Alaskan Rainbows.

Go check out their blog, and really dive in. It’s been around for several years (an eternity in the Fly-fishing Internet world), and you can find some excellent product reviews, knot tying videos, fly tying info and their very popular “Rig” articles. The “Rig” articles (my term) feature a different guide and his particular rig for a specific species and scenario. And by rig, I mean for your backing to spool knot all the way to the knot they ties the fly on with. Pretty interesting stuff.

Deneki also offers some very good gear reviews. And these are on-water reviews by people who fish, not “reviewers” or folks who make a living writing fluff for magazines. I don’t believe I have ever disagreed with a Deneki equipment review. And I like to disagree…

It’s the middle of winter and while all you hardcores are swinging, the days are short and cold enough to leave a few hours for internet research.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Adipose Flow New Boat Smell for the New Year

Adipose Flow New Boat Smell for the New Year

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Adipose Flow. New Boat Smell for the New Year

I picked up my new Adipose Flow yesterday. I’m pretty stoked.

Not long ago I thought I would row my Clackacraft Guide LP for life. I would have been just fine if had not rowed the Adipose Flow. Then, I became a believer.

New Boat Smell Adipose Boatwrks
Out with the old and in with the new. See you down the river old girl…

No compromises is the Adipose Mantra. I’m on board. Truly a perfect boat for our fine river. The skiff style has come on strong he past 10 years. All of the popular boat manufacturers offer a skiff design and Adipose is no different. Except Adipose does not offer anything but the skiff. No pointy ended type boats.

I once shot a TV show called The Gypsy Angler with Stu Apte. I had just started rowing my Adipose Flow. I was washing it out before the first day of shooting and the producer walked up to me and asked where my boat was. I said that he was looking at it. He then stated that it would not work for the show. I of course asked why not? And he said that the viewers would identify more with one of those Montana pointy ended boats more than this floating sandbox!

So we did the show with the sandbox. Much to the producers chagrin.

Not that I’m stubborn…

So I have my second new drifter in 4 years. Would I have rowed that one til I was buried at sea? Yes. But with some of the advances in the last couple years at Adipose I upgraded, bit the bullet, and got myself into a new one.

Adipose always Improving

Some cool new tweaks include a touch higher knee brace. Better shaped knee brace with a more defined hip and leg grabber. Positive closing side compartments. Narrower tolerances with the knee brace tubes. Way more solid. Improved trailer rollers with smooth bearings allowing easier cranking at the end of the day. Side tray locks.  Double front seat option and many more.

New Boat Smell Adipose Boatworks
Bass seat fitted for the hardcore streamer anglers of the Mighty Missouri River

The fit and finish is continually improving as well. Not really all that noticeable to the untrained eye but overall appearance is tight. A sound craft for sure.

Did you see the image to the right? My new bass seat option for hardcore streamer anglers. If you like to strip steamers you know that there is a ton of line at your feet, wrapped around the seat if you are standing, and tangles happen way too often. So two years ago a guest and I brainstormed this idea up. Why not put a tiny bass seat on the front or rear seat and rest on the seat using it as your third point for balance and cast away? Would it reduce line tangles on the seat? Would it work? Would it solve some of the problems?

I don’t know yet because the boat has a cover on it and is resting in my front yard full of snow. The river is slushy up to Craig. Really icebergy out there with shelf ice breaking from the shore and creating shelf ice islands floating throughout the river. But, I expect to put the boat in the water in the next week and test that bass seat out. The beauty is that the seats switch out easily (you can see the regular seat on the floor behind the bass seat) and I have the normal ultra comfortable seats ready to go. So a report will follow in the front end of 2016.

Outside Media who produces TroutTV just picked up Adipose as a sponsor. Look forward to seeing them drifting, fishing, and shooting around Montana and beyond in the Adipose Flow.

Row the Adipose Flow @ Headhunters Fly Shop

All of our rental boats are Adipose Flow Skiffs. Te perfect match for a tailwater river like ours. After using Clackacraft boats for rentals a few years the Adipose Concept was hatched on our deck with help of Headhuntes own John Arnold. He put together Tracy Allen and Mike Ward with a few beers from our now missing YETI cooler and one year later we had Adipose Boatworks manufacturing the updated High Country Drifters in the form of the Adipose Flow Skiff.

Clients enjoy the ease of rowing and freedom of movement as the two top reasons it has become a Montana river favorite. Now Adipose has boats all over the country and continues to grow in local, regional, and national popularity.

These fellers are great to work with with General Manager Justin at the helm these days and Marcie up front. Mike and Tracy are around but also pursuing other side projects. After huffing resin fumes for a few years everybody needs a break. Give Justin a call and get your new 2016 boat in the mold!

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Tying the Pink Lightening Bug

Tying the Pink Lightning Bug

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Tying the Pink Lightning Bug

Today on the Headhunters Fly Shop Blog we tie the Pink Lightning Bug. In conjunction with our popular Just Add Vise brand this video is purely simple. No talking, no postulating about materials, and no lengthly 13 minute tying videos here.

Short and sweet. Just the way you like it. Play it over and over if you wish without listening to the same lame tying jokes…what is a tying joke anyway?

This Pink Lightning Bug is one of the most effective Missouri River winter flies. Great anywhere, and any river USA. Pink is the color of winter. And all this time you thought it was the color of snow.

When snow is on the ground, think pink.

The Pink Lightning Bug is just one of the Just Add Vise kit members. Anglers and tiers also like the Rainbow Czech, Little Green Machine,  Firebead Ray Charles, and Kreelex for winter work. And do not forget about the Mozuri Minnow! All available at our online web store.

We think that Dangerous Dan Gard  brought this fly to the Missouri River. It really is a killer for 8 months of the year. November 1st through the historically high water month of May. Some even fish it into June. Others even longer. A fantastic fly for the subsurface set.

If you can tie this one you can tie the other Missouri River favorites like any of the Pheasant Tail derivations and the summertime trout finder the Purple Lightning Bug. Why not have them all in your repertoire.

The Pink Lightning Bug is not the only winter time fly of choice. Come in and see our vast selection of winter flavored flies for any winter fishery. Ninch, Braden, Sara, and Dewey can point you in the right direction. Pick up a couple Just Add Vise kits as well.

Fly Tying Night in America starts in January. Stay tuned for the Wednesday night tying sessions hosted by Headhunters Fly Shop.

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Friday Foto Headhunters Holiday Shot

Friday Foto Headhunters Holiday Shot

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Friday Foto Headhunters Holiday Shot

We are in the full holiday swing here at Headhunters. The phone is ringing for fly fishing gift items and we are mailing gifts not only to Santa but to husbands, wives, friends, and families before the December 25th deadline.

You want us to pop something in the mail for you? Get on our online store or just give us a shout on the Holiday Hotline 406-235-3447.

Gift Card for Fly Fishers
Get a HH Gift Card for any amount.

Can’t decide what to get your Missouri River fly fishing enthusiast? How about a Headhunters Gift Card. How about a Guide Trip from Headhunters? Everybody loves a guide trip.

We can package your gift and send it off to your recipient if you wish with a note card. No problem. We got your back this holiday season.

We have in stock 22 sizes of SIMMS G3 waders and can get those off in hurry too. If you have been reading lately you know that John has written a couple articles about spey rods, lines, and reels. We have the best Trout Spey selection in Montanan and beyond. Not only do we carry all the cool spey gear we are familiar with it too. Got a tip question? Give us a shout. Need a rod for trout fishing and the appropriate line match whether you are in either the Skagit or Scandi family? We got it.

Bookings being taken daily for 2016. The phone is ringing. Julie is busy getting the coming year all put together. The peak summer months are June and July. If you are interested in either of these two white hot dry fly months you should get on the stick. Call today to get your lodging booked as well as your guide on the books. February is generally too late.

A couple Wish Lists from Headhunters today on the Friday Foto Blog.

Ninch wants…

  1. 100 pk. TMC 930016
  2. Fishpond Nomad Guide Net
  3. Just Add Vise Kreelex Mega Kit
  4. Sage ONE 3100 Trout Spey 11′ 3wt
  5. Hatch Finatic 4 Plus

Stocking Stuffer: Simms Nipper

Braden wishes for…

  1. SIMMS G3 Guide Wader
  2. SIMMS Vapor Boot
  3. Sage ONE 590 9′ 5wt. for dry fly fishing
  4. Sage Accel 790 9′ 7wt. for streamers
  5. SIMMS Bulkley Jacket

Stocking Stuffer: YETI Colster  

Braden says he is shooting for the moon. Why not. Maybe he has been extra good this year?

Mark’s wish list…

  1. SIMMS Hyalite Rain Pant
  2. SIMMS G3 Guide Wader
  3. KAST Raptor Glove
  4. RIO Scandi Short VersiTip Line
  5. Sage Trout Spey 2109 10’9″ 2wt for swinging soft hackles

Stocking Stuffer: One-two-three Fly Box

You can find most of these items on our convenient on-line store. We will ship it for free with any total over $50.

 

 

 

You’ll Also Need a Reel…

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Spey rods garner all the attention when it comes to gear, but we get just as many questions about the right reel, and what budget reels are available for a new spey set-up. We posted some information on our current Spey rod lineup the other day, and I thought we should add some information on reels for those rods. Or any rods.

SPEY REEL BASICS

First off, you need to get the right size reel. The general rule is to go up 1 reel size, which often equates to 2 line sizes in Spey sized reels. In other words, you generally don’t use a 6 weight reel on a 6 weight spey rod, you use an 8. For example, I use a Hatch 7plus (7/8/9) on my 6 weight Spey rod and a Hatch 5plus (5/6/7) on my 4 weight outfit. So, for a 4 weight, we use a #6 reel, for a 6 weight a #8, and so on. The only weird one is the 5 weight spey. There really are not a lot of #7 reels out there, so you usually need to find a big #6. Most 8 weight reels are little big and heavy for a nice light 5 weight spey.

The move to short shooting heads have lessened the importance of reel capacity, but it still is something to consider. If you’re going to rig a shooting head system or “switch” style line like a Wulff Ambush, you don’t need to worry too much about extra capacity. Most models should hold more than enough backing along with your shooting line and head. Using Hatch as an example again, if a reel manufacturer offers reels in “mid-arbor” and “large-arbor”, get the mid. It will be a deeper spool with more capacity.

If you are planning on rigging up with a mid or long-belly line, then you do need to consider the capacity of the reel. These lines are long and thick, and can take up a tremendous amount of space. If you’re planning on fishing for Steelhead on rivers like the Dean or Thompson – where fish can go well into your backing – then you should take careful consideration of your reels capacity, and in some cases you may end up 2 reels sizes above your rod weight (10 weight reel on a #7, for example).

Speaking of weight, a few years ago there was a big push to use extra heavy reels on Spey rods. The reason for this was to properly balance long rods (13′-15′), as well as helping create a “fulcrum” for a push-pull style stroke. Some reel companies even produced beastly “under machined” reels, or additional weights that could be added! I never bought into this, and I don’t think very many other anglers are still using overweight reels.  This was definitely born from over-analysis. And as rods get shorter and shorter each year, balance becomes less of an issue.

Underhanded scnadi-style casters (like me) don’t want a heavy reel, they want it light. Or just regular reel weight reel. And if you make a large investment in an 8 weight Hatch, Abel or Nautilus, you are likely thinking that you can use it on a Bonefish trip as well. And you don’t want it heavy for that. So if you “hear” that you’re supposed to get a super heavy reel, just ignore it.

THE BEAUTY OF TROUTSPEY

You can use any old trout reel! If you’re rigging up a 3 or 4 weight spey rod, you’ll simply use the same 5 or 6 weight reel you already use for trout fishing. You probably have an extra laying around. And if not you have all the choices in the world, as nearly every fly reel made is made in a 5/6 model. A Galvan Torque would make an excellent troutspey reel! When I rigged up my new 4 weight ECHO TR, I spooled up some 50 lb. OPST Lazer shooting line right onto my Hatch 5 plus with no backing. Perfect. Having said that, most of the reels listed below are for larger 6 weight and up spey outfits.

OUR REELS

We like to stress that there are some great budget spey rods out there, and thankfully there are also a couple of great budget reels for them. Unsurprisingly, our two best selling spey reels are produced by the same two companies that make our best selling budget spey rods. ECHO and Orvis.

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ECHO ION $79-99

That’s not a typo. Yes, you can buy a big fly reel with a consistent, smooth and reliable drag for less than $100 dollars. We’ve been using and selling these reels for years, and I don’t recall seeing one fail. They get dinged up. The paint chips off if you bang them around the drift boat. They’re not the prettiest things out there. But they can fight. I see a lot of these that look abused, and I think that tells you who buys them. People who fish.

The ION has proven itself all over the spey world… AK,BC, winter fish, summer fish. It works and is used by many guides who appreciate the combo of reliability and price. And the larger sizes really are designed as Spey reels, the sizing is perfect. We sell tons of the 6/7 and 7/9 sizes. They are perfect for 90% of the rods that leave the shop. The 6/7 is also a great single handed streamer fishing reel. These reels have a very strong drag, and they are even used for King Salmon fishing in Alaska. No-brainer.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”8100″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-ion-reel%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ORVIS BATTENKILL SPEY $139-149

Orvis introduced this reel a couple of years ago, and it immediately caught the eye of myself, and many other old Hardy users. It has a big, beefy click and pawl drag. 90’s technology. 1890’s. I love it and it’s loudness. Not all click/pawl drags have enough power to slow down a big, wild Steelhead, but this one does. The appearance is wide and blocky with a solid backplate. It really doesn’t look much like the wimpy little single handed versions.

The Battenkill Spey will cost you less than $150, seems pretty tough thus far, and has big capacity like reels from 3 decades ago. The strong click drag also means that reeling in your line is less smooth than with a disc-drag reel. If you’re one of those people who like to slap-spin their line in, you won’t like this one. We also wish it came in a III.5 for our 3/4/5 weight rigs. The existing III is most definitely a single handed reel. the IV is perfect for your 6 or 7 weight rig, and the size V is one of the best deals in a fully dedicated Steelhead reel at 8/9 or even 10 weights. Does anyone use those anymore?

 

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HATCH FINNATIC $500-750

In my opinion Hatch Reels are the absolute perfect Spey Reel.  They lean slightly to the heavier side, which is good. They’re built like a tank, which I appreciate as I often throw my rod on the bank or in the river when landing a Steelhead or trout. And there is something about the drag that is perfect for fishing a swung fly. I swing with the line directly off the reel (no loop, thats for Kooks!), and I rely on the drag to aid in hook setting. In other words, I swing with a fairly tight drag. I want that fish to have to pull to get those first few turns off the reel, and the setting on my Hatches seems so perfect at that point in the drag (1/3rd-ish?). I sometimes end up turning the drag down after a fish is on, and I like the big drag knob with very grippy ribs when I’m wearing gloves.

The Hatch sizes and availability of deeper Mid-arbor spools are also ideal for Spey rods. I have several 7plus reels (mid-arbor) that I use on 6, 7, and even 8 weight Spey rods, and when I head to the tropics they end up on 7, 8, and 9 weight Bonefish, Redfish and Permit rods. Now that I actually own – and am not just playing with – smaller 3 and 4 weight two-handers, the Hatch 5plus is turing into the reel I’m using most often. And it’s perfect as well.

Obviously, Hatch reels are not inexpensive, but most anglers who come in our shop are aware off them and know that they are considered one of the best reels on the market. If you’re looking for a high end reel, there is no better option for your spey setup.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”6546″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ABEL CLASSIC  $450-500

Here’s some more “clickers”, this time the Classic series from Abel. These unheralded reels – many anglers are not aware of them – are super cool in  our book. Heavy duty click drags that remind me of my old Hardy St. John’s make some crazy racket when you’re hooked up, and will not overrun on a wild Coastal fish. Many clickers will. We carry a few of these sometimes. In other words we don’t always have them in stock. They’re expensive for a clicker at $480-500, but they’re inexpensive for an Abel. You’re definitely getting Abel quality and finish here, just with a simpler and louder drag.

There are only 3 sizes, the Classic, Switch and Spey. I would use the Classic on a 3, 4 maybe 5 weight two-hander. The Switch I would use on a 5, 6 maybe 7 weight spey, and the Spey on anything bigger. We like them with the solid face on the spool (you can get them ported as well), and you can order custom artwork as well. This raises the cost considerably.

If you like click & pawl reels, these are the best ones I’ve seen that are still being made. The drag is heavy, almost “rough”, but that’s how you want it when a Click & Pawl meets a big fish. As far as the cost goes, handle one for a while and you’ll really appreciate that Abel finish and craftsmanship.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”6904″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

NAUTILUS CCF-X2 $435-525

Nautilus is a big name in the salt, and getting bigger in spey. This is the model I would choose and it would probably be a dedicated Steelhead Reel rather than something I’d use on a lighter troutspey rig. The drag in the CCF-X2 is much larger, stronger and smoother than the FWX drag most trout anglers are familiar with. These are nice big reels with a fast rate of retrieve. This isn’t something we have loads of experience with compared to the FWX, but the few we’ve sold have received excellent reviews.

I think this would be an ideal reel for a lighter shorter rod like a 7126-4 METHOD. Nautilus reels are pretty light in weight, and you wouldn’t want to hang it on the end of a big old and slow 15 footer. Might have some balance issues there. But on a shorter, lighter, quicker rod it should balance well and give you some serious drag. It comes in 6/8 and 8/10 models. We recommend the 6/8 for 6 and 7 weight outfits, and the 8/10 for your winter Steelhead stick (8). Smaller models are not available.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”9963″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fnautilus-ccf-x2-68-reel%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ABEL SUPER SERIES

The Abel Super Series is legendary. When it comes to technology, most anglers either love or hate the cork drag system. It does require some occasional maintenance, but work great. Maybe not my first choice in really cold conditions. Like you’re reel is freezing up conditions. But most of the time it is an excellent performer, and you got to go with some rad paint job. Tribal Raven just screams Steelhead. So does the Steelhead skin.

The Super series are a bit narrower than many of the newer Large-arbor reels, and that’s ok. Keeps your line from stacking on one side or the other. Craftsmanship and performance are awesome, but you know your getting this for the paint job. Don’t be embarrassed by that. The finishes on the Super Series are incredibly cool. How about some Dancing Bears on your new 6 weight switch rod?

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Montana Trout Spey

2015-16 Spey Rod Lineup

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Here is the 2015-16 Spey rod lineup at Headhunters for those interested in casting and fishing with two-hands. With the introduction of micro-spey rods in the last couple of years, we definitely are seeing a switch in both what we carry and what customer want. We are also seeing the emergence of the “trout only” spey guy/gal. People who fish for resident fish rather than migratory species. Why leave Montana, right?

In years past we’ve focused on the 6/7 weight category as our primary rod, and toyed around with the handful of 3 and 4 weights available. The 6/7 weight Scandi rig is the perfect Steelhead/Trout combo for the Missouri (trout) and Salmon/Ronde/Clearwater (Steelhead). This has traditionally been where most of our customer use a spey rod. While we have always carried a few 8 weights, they were typically special orders for winter Steelhead on the OP. A 7 usually gets the job done just fine.

This season we’re talking more 5/6 weight around the shop. We still use and sell plenty of 7 weight rods, but they are becoming a Steelhead specific rod more than a Steelhead/trout combo (although they still work great for trout on bigger waters like the Mo’). The 5 weight is starting to emerge as the perfect trout rod for many, and has enough guts to be used for light summer Steelhead fishing on the Grande Ronde, John Day, etc. (This is especially true with the never-ending drought conditions many interior Steelhead rivers are experiencing. The Grande Ronde, for example, consistently runs nearly half – 5-600 cfs vs. 1000+cfs – of what it idid when I began fishing it in the late 80’s. There are also far fewer high-water events from rain over the course of the fall.)

Winston (Micro Spey) and Sage (One Troutspey) are both getting attention for bringing these ultralight two-handers to the market, but remember that ECHO was there way before the big (expensive) guys. They’ve offered 4 weights for several years, and 3 weights for a couple.

The introduction of these baby spey rods has spawned the “Trout Quiver”. Both our staff and customers are beginning to roll a smaller 3 or 4 weight for super-light applications, and a larger 6 weight as a Trout/Steelhead combo rod. Typically the UL rod is rigged with a Skagit line, and the 6 weight with a Scandi.

Using a Skagit on the smaller rod may seem wrong, but there are a couple of reasons for it. Firstly, there are far more “short-head” light-grain Skagit lines available than Scandi. Secondly, using a mono running line/Skagit combo can overcome some of the distance and power issues you can encounter with a 3 weight spey rod. Lastly, we are often using these rods for in-close and deep work in late winter (think Walleye).

The 6 weight switch or spey, on the other hand, is typically used for long casts and near-surface presentations for both trout on the Missouri, and summer Steelhead on interior rivers like the Ronde, John Day and Salmon. A Scandi style head makes perfect sense. I you need to go deep and long for winter Steelhead, many of the newer 6 weight full-length spey rods will get the job done with a short Skagit head. If not, then you’re the guy that’s in the market for a 7 weight, or even 8.

The lonely 5 weight has long been the odd-man-out. Too small for Steelhead, and too big to fall into the “micro-spey” category. That is changing as we see more trout or “resident” only spey anglers. Looking for a do-everything rod for big and small fish and rivers, but you have no plans to go chase Steelhead or Salmon? The 5 weight is probably perfect. Remember that a 5 weight equates roughly to a 7 weight single hander (also the odd-man-out) and has plenty of power for big trout and big rivers, as well as other species like Carp, Drum, Pike, etc.

After four years of teaching spey clinics through the shop, two rod models have emerged as the perfect blend of performance and price. The ECHO TR and the Orvis Clearwater both cast great and sit at a great price point that allow new-buyers to keep plenty of dough in their pocket for heads, tips, flies, a nice reel and probably another rod. Experienced caster pick these up and don’t feel they are sacrificing much (if anything) in terms of casting performance, and you save hundreds. Both rods throw Scandi and Skagit lines equally well, and both cover all the sizes including the lighter end. A little bit of East Coast/West Coast going on here. The best casters I know try these and respond with “what else do you need?”.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

TWO BEST CHOICES – ECHO TR and ORVIS CLEARWATER

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ECHO TR – $350

The “TR” stands for Tim Rajeff, owner and head casting-guru/designer at ECHO. The TR is not a new model, and it has proved itself over the last several years as a versatile, powerful and popular rod in the the Spey market. Cosmetically it’s on it’s second generation with a matte green finish and a grip we really like both cosmetically and from a handling standpoint. It’s a light rod and is durable as well, a trait that is very important to us. If I had to say this rod leaned in the Scandi or Skagit direction I would say slightly to the Scandi. It’s a little faster than some rods at this price point. A little.

I have used a 6 weight TR all over the Skeena drainage with Scandi heads and never felt like I needed more (more expensive?) rod. A great caster, and at $350 it is very difficult to find a rod that casts $500 better, but it’s easy to find one that costs $500 more. The 12’6″ 6 weight is our bread and butter rod around here, but the 12′ 5 weight is coming on strong. ECHO now makes the TR in a 12′ 4 weight, the only 12′ under 5 weight rod that I am aware of. I am fishing this rod this year and really like it for the Mo’ with a OPST Commando head and Lazer running line. Not what I would put in the “micro” category, but that might be a good thing. While considered a Scandi-ish rod, the 6 weight casts a 450gr Skagit with no problem. Probably enough for most sink tip applications, and I’ve used that rig for BC Steelhead.

Just a money rod that performs. It’s not a rod for tech-geeks that want to sit around and disect rod/line designs. It’s a fishermans rod for those who consider rods “tools” and want to spend their time fishing. And we like that.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15886″][vc_btn title=”BUY” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-tr-spey%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ORVIS CLEARWATER – $350

This rod has been very popular with our customers, and I have heard some very good spey casting instructors say that this is one of their favorite rods for newbie casters. But you won’t outgrow it. At least not soon. Cosmetically, it has a bit more of a PNW Skagit look, with a curvy grip and high-gloss green fish. It also leans a bit to the Skagit side, but like the TR it does both with ease. We’ve sold quite a few and I can’t recall seeing a broken one, so it has that durability factor we love.

The Clearwater is a touch easier caster than the TR, and probably won’t give you as much on the long end because of that. But it delivers plenty and I would have no problem fishing this rod all week on any Steelhead or trout river. It has excellent latent power that throws long, powerful casts with very little effort. If you’re into the casual style of sustained anchor casting this would be an excellent choice.

Like the ECHO TR, the 12’6″ #6 is the most popular at Headhunters, but also popular is the 13′ 7 model for winter Steelhead. The 12′ 5 weight is an awesome rod for the Missouri and light Steelhead. It’s a strong 5. Probably a #5.5.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15888″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Forvis-clearwater-spey%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_image image=”16035″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ECHO 3 – $550

The ECHO 3 is the flagship spey rod at ECHO. We’ve carried this model for a few years, mainly to have the exceptional 12’7″ 6 weight available. The ECHO 3 is beginning to emerge as our “premium” spey rod, however. At $550 it represent a great value without exceeding your mortgage payment. But for that $550 you are getting a beautiful, fast and powerful rod that compares very well to faster rods from Sage, Loomis and others that cost much more. You’ll get everything you would with more expensive rods in terms of performance, but with savings that allow you to build the rest of your kit up. It’s another very durable rod, perfect for backcountry trips up north.

Faster rods like these can be slowed down by overloading them with Skagit heads, if you’re more of a sustained anchor Skagit caster. This rod really shines, however, with a Scandi head or even mid-belly line. Tight loops and long casts are easy, and this rod can generate tremendous power. As mentioned, the 12’7″ #6 has no haters. If you attend one of our clinics, that’s what you’ll see in my hand as my personal demonstration rod. If you find me on a Steelhead river, you’ll see the same. It’s a great rod. The 13′ #7 is very popular as a dedicated tip-rod for Steelhead. Our only complaint is that ECHO has yet to produce a 11’7″ 4 and 12′ 5 weight. Would be so sweet…

We probably wouldn’t recommend these for a beginner, and they probably cost a little more than you want to – or need to – spend on your first spey rod. But for a high performance Steelhead/Trout combo at a great price, the ECHO 3 is unbeatable. Also, we sell a few (special order) ECHO 3 Switch rods (11′ #7) each year for spring fishing on the S. Fork of the Clearwater. Reviews are excellent.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15887″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-3-spey%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Sage METHOD – $1050

Sage makes several models of Spey rods (too many?), but we have always focused on the fastest top-tier model. The TCX was one of our favorite models, and was replaced a couple of years ago by the Corvette red METHOD. These are fast action rods that are not forgiving of mistakes. They require some physical power to cast, and after a week on the Bulkley you’ll feel it in your arms and shoulders. So why get one? The performance – especially with Scandi heads – is outstanding. These are shooting machines and will throw all kinds of flies in nasty and windy conditions. People either love or hate the bright red paint job. We like it.

I usually love 12’6″ rods, and I like that Sage makes this model in 6, 7, and 8 weight 12’6″ models. This is the kind of rod that I am going to buy for a specific application, and I like that you can really dial the weight in. We also like the 11’9″ – as opposed to 11′ – length in the switch rods. Much better for spey casting and sink tips. We sell both 6 (trout/Steelhead) and 7 (Steelhead) models in both switch and spey configurations.

The METHOD is also a very popular  switch series. The 11’9″ 6 and 7 weight models are great for light summer Steelhead (7) and trout (6 weight). Until rod companies build some reasonably priced travel spey rods, these shorter – but powerful – switch rods are an ideal rod for a trip to Patagonia for big trout, or Iceland and the Canadian Maritimes for Atlantic Salmon. A little easier to travel with, and you can spey/swing or thrown upstream dries.  The price is also premium, however, and there are rods like the ECHO 3 that are right there in terms of performance. Probably not recommended for beginning casters for most Spey only situations. But if you’re an experienced caster looking for top-shelf performance and a do-everything rod, the METHOD is hard to beat.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15934″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fsage-method-spey-switch%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

ECHO 3 GLASS – $299

Incredibly affordable, popular and fun at the shop is the ECHO Glass series of Spey and switch rods. These retro looking honey colored spey rods are slow and smooth, but with mega power. I’v never met a spey rod that I could make so many casting errors with, and still execute a good cast. It’s really amazing. Anglers who haven’t fished with one probably think of them as a “niche” or “gimmick” rod, but they ain’t. The 12’9″ 7 weight is an ideal sink-tip rod for BC or winter Steelhead, and Ninch uses his all the time on the Missouri. The 12’4″ #6 is a perfect rod for the Mo’ and coastal summer Steelhead. Our staff love the 4 and 6 weight switch models ($279) with short Skagit heads for both trout and Walleye.

Casting these rods is a little different. You need to slow down, and they like to perform an open kind of “whip” style of cast. But they do perform, and a good caster will not be giving up much distance with them. They cast Scandi lines much better than you would expect, but they shine with a Skagit head, sink tip and big old nasty on the end. The only complaint we hear is that the weight of fiberglass – while not noticeable to bigger, stronger casters – is too much for smaller casters. Women, in particular, cast this rod well but choose other models to have a lighter rod in the hand while fishing.

The price of these is ridiculous. For less than $300 you get a ton of fun, great performance and excellent durability. The softer tips on these rods are well suited to fishing sink-tips, and especially light biting fish. The switch models are only $279, and make an ideal “budget” micro-spey when compared to offerings from Sage, Winston, etc. And at under $300 you can afford to financially “test the waters” first.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15889″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-glass-spey-switch%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Sage ONE Troutspey – $950

Probably the most asked about rod in the shop this season, the new Sage ONE Troutspey is not just a shrunken version of another rod. It’s specifically designed as a trout specific spey rod that leans heavily towards the Skagit side of things. There are 2 models of the Troutspey, a 2 weight and 3 weight. Both rods serve a specific purpose. The 2 weight is designed for swinging small soft hackles and protecting light tippets. The three weight was designed specifically to throw larger streamers (up to a #4 heavily weighted) and rip a 10′ T8 MOW tip out of the water. Mission accomplished.

The team at Headhunters loves both, although none of us would call them “easy”. We recommend that you have some kind of spey casting competency. Even the best casters need a few minutes to figure out hand position, tempo and power (or lack of). The 3 weight is designed to use with very short Skagit heads and a “sustained anchor” style. We recommend either RIO’s new Skagit Trout Max (11′) or the OPST Commando head (12’6″). We have cast Scandi heads on these, but don’t really see the point. There are better rods at #4 for that, and the belly (D Loop) gets really long for some. Time for a Scandi Super-short from someone, which we need for the 2 weight. On the Missouri, we see no reason to swing tiny soft hackles on a Skagit head/tip.

So, the super relaxed, Skagit action with plenty of reserve power kind of puts these rods in a class by themselves. There are equivalent sized rods elsewhere that throw the line, and in some cases farther. But the 3 weight has the ability to throw some large flies and tips that most rods this size can’t. You need to be a dedicated Troutspey guy or gal – and an experienced caster – to justify the cost of these rods. If you are that person, you will probably really enjoy them.

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ECHO SR – $329

Headhunters has carried the ECHO SR (Switch Rod) off and on since we opened the doors. It’s not always our favorite rod, but there is little else available in some sizes at that price range. We brought it back this year in the 10’6″ 4 weight version, as a graphite alternative to the very expensive Sage ONE Troutspey. The ECHO SR performs great when lined correctly. If not it can make casting a bit tough. But at $329 it’s a much easier pill to swallow than micro-spey models from the Sage, Winston, etc.

Action-wise, I’d call it fast. It is designed as a “switch” after all, and has a light and fast enough tip to cast overhand. To us “switch” is over. No one we know is using a rod for both single handed and two-handed casting. So as a little spey we might have added a little weight to the tip, a few inches of length and changed the flex a touch. But, we’ve tried a bunch of heads on this guys and when lined right it sings. Our favorite is a 225 grain Skagit compact (18′). This is a bit underlined, and this combo casts more Scandi-like than Skagit. But it still throws a floating or sinking sink tip, poly-leader, and heavy fly. It’s a pretty sweet set-up. If you try to go too heavy with a super short Skagit head the tip collapses, which makes sense with most “switch” rods.

These good looking and tough micro-spey rods represent the best value we can find if you want to go really light. This would rod be especially valuable for medium sized freestones, and because it’s a switch rod, you could “switch” if necessary and toss a hopper dropper rig or nymph rig.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”16038″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Fecho-sr%2F||”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

OTHER RODS

We have a few other rods bouncing around the shop for you to try as well. The Sage Accel Spey is a rod we wanted to bring in, but there are just too many series that bottom out at 6 weight. We did however, bring in the switch version, an 11’4″ 6 weight with a slow, smooth action that I believe some people will really like. This is a rod I would recommend for someone who fishes the Missouri a lot with a two-hander, and makes 1 trip a year to the Ronde or Salmon for Steelhead. Pretty interesting stick.

We have had some of the Thomas & Thomas DNA XF (Scandi) rods around for the last few years. The 11’7″ 6/7 is the ideal Mo’ rod on paper. In reality, it’s not quite perfect, but is still a great Steelhead/trout combo switch rod that prefers a floating line. Beautiful craftsmanship is not inexpensive.

We have a demo of the new 11’6″ #6 Redington Chromer, with the cool black rubber partial grips top and bottom. While it’s a good rod, most of our staff and clients though it was good. Not great. No one got excited about it. And at $399 it’s a little more than it’s competition. But if murdered-out black is you look, you may love it.

THAT’S IT?

Yes, that’s about it. We used to carry more models from more manufacturers, but in reality we need to inventory the rods people want. While there’s always someone out there looking for unusual models and makes, most of our customers are looking for fishing “tools”. They want the best rod for the price, and they want spey casting to be easy. And they want to catch fish. We feel that we’ve addressed that with this selection. Even if budget and space was a non-issue, I’m not sure how many more brands and models we would bring in. Our customers have spoken by supporting the rods above.

MY GEAR

This season I’ve chosen the ECHO 3 12/7″ #6 for my Steelhead/big trout rod, which I line with an Airflow Compact Scandi on a Hatch 7plus reel. Perfect for the Lewiston area, and I hope to make a trip to the CA. coast this winter. And for casting instruction it is a consistent, adaptable rod. For a lighter rig, I’ve chosen the new ECHO TR 12′ #4 mentioned above. Lined up with an OPST Commando Head, OPST Lazer running line directly onto my Hatch 5plus (no backing), it’s kind of a “macro-spey” rig. The extra length/reach is something I like for both casting and swimming my fly. I expect this rod to provide several Walleye-taco dinners for my family.

DEMO’S

Come by the shop and demo any of the above gear. As the demand for certain sizes move down a notch, we may not have 7 weight rigs available in all these models if you’re looking for that new winter Steelhead rig. If that’s the case, you usually can get a pretty good idea by trying the 6, or ask our staff if any of them have the 13′ #7 in the model you’re interested in.

We have tons of shooting heads and tons of folks that take advantage of that. And you don’t have to use our rods to demo the lines. It’s common for an angler to take out 2-3 grain weights of a shooting head to dial in the right model before purchase. Call the shop with any questions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

iMOW Tips In Stock

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]During swing-season, MOW tips are one of our biggest selling items. You always find you want (need?) another size for a specific spot or conditions. Unfortunately, RIO has been out of these for some time. It’s always good to run out of MOW tips during the fall.

Our MOW inventory has changed to the new iMOW tip, the “i” signifying that these are now built with intermediate instead of floating line. The floating and full sinking lines are unchanged, other than a color change to the full-sinkers to signify if they are light, medium or heavy. The entire tip is now colored instead of the loop.

iMOW tips are must haves for swinging on the Missouri River and all other trout streams during the winter months. They also come in handy for use on single handed rods when you need some extra “soak” out of the drift boat. We have a few customer also using the OPST Commando heads with iMOW tips on their single handers. Smart.

We’ve just updated the webstore with all of the tips HERE. Everything is in stock now, except the light 5X5, which will hopefully be here soon.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Weekend Re-Cap here in Craig Montana

Weekend Re-Cap here in Craig Montana

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Monday morning here in Craig Montana.

A fun weekend here on the Mighty MO. Our first of several Free Spey Clinics went off without a hitch on Saturday. A few cancellations left us with a smaller group of about 15. Ninch, Sara, Beth, Dewey, John and Mark instructed the enthusiastic spey gang as they cast away until the late afternoon.

Weekend Re-Cap here in Craig Montana
Spey Rod demo’s @ Headhunters Fly Shop from Sage, Orvis, Echo, T & T

Most had not cast a Spey Rod before Saturday. All could get by after completing their first spey casting session. A couple brought their own rods and the remainder of the class used Headhunters extensive selection of demo spey rods.

We have the Sage Accel in 6wt, the 6126 and 7126 Methods are popular, and the Trout Spey Sage rods from 2wt all the way through 5wt.  The Orvis Clearwater is a fan favorite as well as the rods from Echo. We have the Echo Glass which is a great seller.  The 12′ 4″ 6 wt, 12′ 9″ 7wt as well as the 10′ 8″ 4 wt  and 11′ 6wt switch rods.The Echo 3 and Echo TR were enjoyed by the group. The  T & T DNA rounds out rest of our demo stock.

This vast selection of spey and switch rods is not matched any where in Montana. I counted 26 demo spey rods in the rack at the shop. And, and we have all of the lines you may need in the demo fleet too. Lines from RIO in both Skagit and Scandinavian versions. Airflo and lines from OPST are both very popular as well. All to try out on your own rod if you wish. Finding the right line for you, for your type of water, and for your style is of utmost importance. Headhunters is here t oasis you in that battle.

Happy guests at the Spey Clinic this weekend. If you are interested in the three remaining clinics you might want to give us a call and get your name on the list. Check out more info about these always filled free spey clinics.

Chatted with a couple of fellers from Kalispell after they floated the river on Saturday. Nymphing wa their game and the flies of choice included many pink flies. A Caviar Scud, Rainbow Czech, Amex, FB Ray in grey or pink and a few eats on the Zebra too. They said they enjoyed the lack of traffic. They will be visiting a few times this winter to see not only the sun here in lonesome Craig and to catch a few. They enjoyed the Craig Trout Camp Brown Cabin for a mere $125/night. Dinner at Joe’s Bar with a few beers. A perfect winter weekend.

Gift Card for Fly Fishers
Get a HH Gift Card for any amount.

Not as many anglers on Sunday as the wind blew about 100mph. Not really that windy, but it sure seemed like it. Partly cloudy and windy. The week ahead looks warmer again which generally means more wind.

We got the Christmas lights up at the shop on Friday. It ’tis the season. We are into it too. We do love the holidays. Christmas boxes going out the door daily as on-line fly fishing shoppers are getting their  family members and friends killer gifts from Headhunters Fly Shop.

A great gift for your favorite angler whether he of she be a Montana waters fan or not…is the benchmark of Gift Cards. The Headhunters Gift Card available in any amount. Why not get your sweetie a guide trip for 2016, a step in the positive direction for a fly rod, or a nice selection of flies for their upcoming ’16 Missouri River trip.

Having a ball in Craig Montana. Looking forward to the new year. Many returning guests booking their lodging and guide trips for next season. Open daily for any of your needs whether it be shopping, spey clinic booking, or getting your name on the books for the year ’16.

Happy Monday to you all!

Vedavoo. Made in the USA, Headhunters

Vedavoo. Unique, USA Made, Headhunters

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A unique item for those you are shopping for that don’t like the run of the mill mega produced overseas items. Vedavoo Made in the USA buy real people for real outdoor activities.

This sling pack is perfect for those who are into just carrying the right amount of gear to the river. Not those overkill individuals. I love this sling pack. It rules.

Perfect for those who are anti-establishment. Not made overseas. Sewn right here in the good ‘ol US of A. The Vedavoo Tightlines Sling Pack available at Headhunters today.

Vedavoo is not a product line you will see at all fly shops. You will not see it at your big box stores either. You only see it at small specialty retail stores. Just like us here in downtown Craig.

Vedavoo Made in the USA

The Vedavoo Tightlines Sling Pack was designed to be the one pack that can cover your needs for 90% of the fishing you do.

Worn over your non-dominant shoulder (left if you’re right handed), the pack rides comfortably in the small of your back. When you need access to your gear, you pull the sling around to the front – where it lies comfortably and level across your chest. This gives you quick and easy access to your tools, flies, and tippet, but keeps your front clean and tangle free while you fish.

Frustrated by other “circular” slings that creep around or flop forward on you, our design was built to stay put on your back. Our offset design connects to the body of the pack at a point above the center of gravity – which means that the weight is already past the point of turn, and must be PULLED around to the front.

Minimalist, but not restrictive, the pack was designed to carry two full size flyboxes from Cliff Outdoors (ideal with a Super Days Worth and a Standard Cliff Flybox) in the gear pouch. The strap is built with two key pockets:

  • Behind the gear pouch is a velcro closure pocket ideal for thin items you need (but don’t want in your way). Things like leader wallets, granola bars, pocket flasks, peanut butter sandwiches, etc fit nicely here.
  • A small zipper pocket to hold your loose gear and other accessories you need to have quick access to. Stash your indicators, weight, chapstick, floatant and more here.
    On top of the zipper pocket is a strip of tool loops – quickly connect your key tools here for easy access in the center of your chest when the sling is pulled to the front. We suggest using at least four S-Biners (you can get them from us) – they are a great way to clip on your tools, and keep them isolated from the pack so they don’t spin on the loops.

See all of our packs and bags here on our online store…

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Simms Bulkley

SIMMS Bulkley Jacket Review

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SIMMS Bulkley Jacket Review

SIMMS Bulkley Jacket
A good piece for 8 months a year!

Lots of interest in the New SIMMS Bulkley Jacket this season. With the recent advent of winter, it has been brewing but now it has certainly arrived, this insulated SIMMS wading jacket has received positive reviews from both the staff and Missouri River anglers.

The SIMMS Bulkley Jacket is an upgrade from the preivious model. Now insulated with Primaloft this will keep you warm in all but the coldest fishing situations. The previous model was not insulated, just a shell. This is a vast improvement!

I’ve been fishing and hanging and chillin’ in this jacket for about 3 months now. Just love it. Far better than I had imagined. Really enjoy  this piece. I usually layer up under the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket. I have been wearing a base layer with a wool top or hoody. Works quite well.

The length is just right for deeper wade fishing. We have not experienced high water in a few years but in this lower water era the Bulkley allows for exploratory wading without dampening your pocketed gear. High side pockets give you a place to keep your hand warmers. Better to keep those hands warm!

The external bellowed side zip chest pockets are roomy enough for larger fly boxes, tippet spools, GINK, and cigars. And that is it for pockets. You won’t lose too much gear because of the common fly fishing practice of over-pocketing. An added attraction is the YKK Aquaguard Vislon zippers will not let water enter your flies get damp.

 

SIMMS Bulkley Jacket
Perfectly comfortable in the cold, or the sleet, or the rain!

The killer features that I love about the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket include the dual draw cord bottom of the jacket. Pull on it and the bottom tightens up. A single handed release allows the garment to relax. The same dual draw cord system for the hood allows the angler to pull on one cord tightening up the hood for those nasty upstream winter winds. Then a single pressure point loosens the hood for easy removal. Again in the rear of the hood is the same type of mechanism. Tug on a single cord and the volume of the hood is reduced. So the problem of an uncomfortable hood situation has been remedied with the SIMMS Bulkley Jacket.

Two layer Gore-Tex keeps this piece lighter than your average insulated wading jacket. And who does not love the Gore-Tex brand. Rain, snow, sleet, or whatever Old Man Winter can throw at you will be dashed.

Most folks just love the Primaloft Silver insulation with 100g in the body, 60g in both the hood and sleeves. Just like wool Primaloft insulation retains its insulating properties when wet. So, if you gal in, you’ll be good. A reminder…don’t fall in.

One thing that drives me nuts about most cuff systems is that they really don’t work and your line catches the Velcro tabs. But, no worries here man. The Shingle Cuff internal cuff system is bomber. Not only does the neoprene lined sleeve bottom provide a water tight barrier the velcro tightening system is rock solid. The Shingle Cuff is the way!

SIMMS Bulkley Jacket
All sizes of SIMMS G3 waders in stock!

FEATURES

  • 2 upper hand-warmer pockets & 2 large YKK® AquaGuard® VISLON® zippered fly box pockets
  • Shingle Cuff™ is watertight & eliminates line catch points
  • Dual draw-cord adjustable bottom hem
  • FABRIC TECH: 2-layer GORE-TEX® Shell fabric – waterproof/breathable; 100% nylon 70d rip-stop face; 100% polyester 20d rip-stop liner; Primaloft® Silver insulation 100g body, 60g/sleeves & hood – retains its insulation power when wet
  • APPROX. WEIGHT: 28.8 oz./815g
    SIZES: S-XXL

 

HEADHUNTERS STAFF SAYS: The Bulkley has long been a shop staff favorite, although we acknowledged it wasn’t the nicest jacket out there. For 2015 Simms has completely revamped the insulated Bulkley Jacket, and we would argue it is now one of the nicest fishing jackets we’ve ever seen! Quality construction using GORE-TEX and Primaloft create a super warm and dry jacket for off-season conditions. Whether you’re stomping through the rainforest in BC or trudging through thigh-deep snow in Montana, the Simms Bulkley jacket will keep you comfortable. We see the significant price increase as justified, considering the high quality of the new jacket, and the fact that we wear these nearly every day during the winter months.

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RIO Powerflex Plus Trout Leader and Tippet

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The RIO Powerflex Plus new leader and tippet is stronger. 20% stronger!

That is the upshot of this new product from RIO. Stronger!

The only thing you have to worry about are bent hooks!

RIO Powerflex PlusRIO Powerflex Plus trout leaders and tippet material has always been tough. This new nylon technology ups the game. New packaging for this well received leader and tippet material.

Available in 7.5′, 9′, and 12′ lengths in a convenient 2 pack. All you need for battling trout on our local resource.

We here at Headhunters are into all the coolest new products. On a river that harbors a ton of big Rainbow and Brown trout it seems that RIO has made this material for anglers just like us.

Next time that you stroll through Craig Montana stop in and see us. We will introduce you to the stronger RIO Powerflex Plus.

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Are you into Craiglandia

Are you into Craiglandia?

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Are you into Craiglandia?

We are.

Craiglandia is a real place. One of your favorite places.

The Craiglandia Hoody is how to remember and live your inner Craiglandia at home. On your river. At the office. In your garage. Chillin’ on the couch rooting for your favorite team.

A cool gift for your neighbor, your brother, your husband, your wife, or even better…yourself.

Check out all the cool Headhunters Logo wear on our on-line store. We’ll pop it in the mail for you pronto.

Upcoming is the annual Small Business Saturday November 28th. While we all shop at large box stores…keep in mind your local entrepreneurs and specialty retailers. They appreciate the dollars, the business, and they understand supporting local and community events far more often than those big corporate guys.

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Top 10 Missouri River November Flies

Top 10 Missouri River November Flies

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Top 10 Missouri River November Flies

These will get you through the front end of the month. Plus your fall favorites too. Bring it all when you visit the Mo this coming week or two.

In your boat should be a quiver of fly rods. Or just your favorite will suffice. Like your new Sage PULSE, the everything fly rod. In a perfect world you may have a streamer rod, a two-hander, a nymph rod, and a kick ass dry fly rod. Just bring them all.

Rig the dry fly rod with a Nymen’s BWO Cripple. Rig the streamer rod with your favorite fall killer, like a Olive Bugger. Rig your nymph rod with a Rainbow Czech Nymph and a Little Green Machine. Done and done and done.

Flies that we love for the next week or two include…

The flies are (L to R, T to B):
Buzzball
Nymen’s DOA Cripple BWO
Harrop’s Captive Dun BWO
Quigley’s 1/2 Dun BWO
Schmidt’s UV2 Bugger Olive
Mozuri Minnow
Tungsten Zebra Midge Murdered Out
Little Green Machine
Allen’s Holla-Back Girl Pink
Rainbow Czech Nymph

A second look at the SAGE Pulse

Second look at the SAGE Pulse

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Second look at the SAGE Pulse. One of the newest SAGE fly rods to come out the Autumn of ’15.

At Headhunters Fly Shop and across the industry this rod has come out of the gate strong.

Well received this easy caster and understandably efficient fish fighter is a great rod for the Missouri River. On a river where we can all agree that the proper fishing behaviors should result in actually catching the fish the SAGE Pulse is the All Around Winner.

A number of rods have found their way out the front door and the clear HH Staff Choice coming into the fall leads us to believe that the Pulse may be around for awhile. And why not.

SAGE Pulse
Great for dries, nymphs or streamers!

The buzz around this rod starts with the easy feel in hand. It just feels right, right out of the tube. The second thing you notice is the ease of casting. Made of legendary Graphite IIIe the SAGE Pulse feels like it was made for your casting stroke. Yes, designed specifically for you.

I know that is a reach but the forgiving nature of the Pulse allows you to become intimate with this rod immediately. The third reason the Pulse is becoming a fan favorite is the number of fly lines that it will accommodate. The RIO Gold, Perception, and Grand all match up well with this rod. The RIO LT while not for everyone is a neat line to for the lighter rod wts. like the 3 and 4wts.

The SAGE Pulse is not one of those rods made for one narrowly defined fly fishing task. There are rods that are great for the streamer junkie and rods that are fantastic for the dry fly angler. There are even rods made with only the nympher in mind. But it has become a rare occasion when a rod is introduced that is comfortable achieving all 3 fly fishing disciples.

Introducing the SAGE Pulse. A fly rod that solves many of the fly fishing mysteries.

Feel connected with the Pulse in your hand. The 5 and 6 wts. for fishing the Missouri River are perfect. Whichever discipline whether it be nymphing, dry fly fishing, or stripping streamers you will not be under tooled.

Second Look at the SAGE Pulse
A good bend in the Pulse with a Missouri River dry fly fish

The RIO Xtreme Indicator line turns the Pulse into a nymphing super rod. Easy casting and effortless mending ability you will be pleased with the effectiveness of the SAGE Pulse. The RIO InTouch Gold will make precise tight-looped casts to our often finicky Missouri River sipping Brown Trout. Put a spool of the RIO Grand through the guides and you have a hopper tosser that will rival any more expensive rod. Then turn around and fix up a double articulated streamer and go to work son.

Is the SAGE Pulse for you? Only you can make that decision. If you think you may be interested stop by the shop to demo either the 5 or 6 weight or both!

John Arnold once said in reference to Spey Rods that he used to carry several rods to the river…then he realized that he oughtta just carry one workhorse spey rod. You could say the same for the SAGE Pulse. Why carry a quiver of fly rods when you can carry only one. The SAGE Pulse is the hidden jewel of the current SAGE rod line.

I believe that this would make a great first rod for any angler. Certainly one that wants to enjoy the fly fishing game. A do all end all be all fly rod for those who want a rod that does it all. A fly rod that you will make memories with. A rod that will stand the test of time. It just feels right.

I also have always said one of the Missouri River assets is that it is a fishery for all skill sets. Whether you are a first time angler or one of those fella’s who fishes 100+ days/year…the Mo has challenges for all who attend. The Pulse matches up perfectly alongside this statement. A rod for all situations and experience levels.

Coming in at an-uncommon price point of $450 the Pulse will not break the bank. Match it up with a cool fly reel and the RIO line of your choice and you are off to the river. Stop in and try the SAGE Pulse when in Craig.

 

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SIMMS Vapor Wading Boot

SIMMS Vapor Wading Boot Review

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Simply awesome. Those were the words I literally said out loud as I removed my Simms Vapor Boots last week. This was the third time I wore them and while I was impressed after my first two trial runs, this was the first full day I fished in them — ten hours — zero discomfort. That’s a big deal for a guy like me.
Personally, I credit the comfort to a shorter rise from the floor to the Achilles tendon. This characteristic makes them wear more like a pair of Chuck Taylor high-tops than traditional wading boots. Once you put on a pair of Vapors, in just a few steps you’ll notice the weight, or shall I say the lack thereof. With most boots, you can usually feel the extra swing weight with each step but in Vapors, you won’t feel anything at all.

In my opinion, these boots were designed for those who like to hike for miles to get to their spot and then fish for hours once in it. But for my money, that’s not the only application for this more comfortable than most wading boot. For me, I plan on keeping these kicks around for everyday use. Previously, I was wearing RiverTek™ Boa® Boots and believe me, I loved them. These boots were so comfy, I ended up dubbing them Drift Boat Slippers. After 2-plus years and at least 200 days of use, my RiverTeks are still holding strong and could easily go another spring season, however, I’ve recently opted to go with my new wading boot obsession, the Vapor.

While comfort ranks as the most important aspect I look for in a boot, I also like to show a bit of style on the water. With a mid-range price tag, Vapors feel great on your feet and by escaping the traditional bulky boot design, they have a very cool and unique style all their own. For comfort reasons, I typically go one size larger in my wading boots than my street shoe size. While in Headhunters Fly Shop, I put on a pair of Vapors in a size 11 (my everyday shoe size) and walked around for a while. They felt so good, I figured I give that sizing a shot and I was dead right. I recommend trying on a couple sizes before you buy, but don’t disregard your street size while rocking Vapors. For me, these boots feel perfect without going up in size.

While there will still be those who prefer a stiff ankle support bomber boot for deep wading in all too slick steelhead runs, for the rest of the wading crowd, the Vapor is a boot to be reckoned with and one you will definitely appreciate.

Get yourself a pair this fall for all winter comfort. Hike your ass off this coming spring and then rock them on cooler summer mornings hiking down the tracks to your favorite dry fly flat.

Headhunters is your exclusive SIMMS Dealer on the Missouri River. See us in Craig for waders, boots, clothing, gloves, and all things SIMMS.

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Montana Trout Spey Fishing

Trout Spey Line Selection

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We’ve been receiving lots of questions about “Troutspey” rods and lines lately. Folks are getting geared up for the fall. Streamers are on their mind, and many folks are choosing to swing them on foot, rather than from the boat.

We’ve already announced that we have several smaller spey rods designed for trout, including the new Sage ONE Troutspey (3110-4). We are also carrying two models from ECHO, the Glass Switch 4106 and the SR 4106. Both are 4 weights, but fish and feel similar to the Sage #3. (There is also a Sage #2, but that is designed more for smaller soft-hackles and such).

The “big news” isn’t really about the rods. In fact the ECHO’s have been around for a few years. The big change is the extremely short Skagit heads that go with them. RIO is producing an 11′ Skagit Trout Max for the ONE. We are also carrying the OPST (Olympic Penninsula Skagit Tactics) Commando heads, which come in at 12′-13’6″ in these smaller sizes. You can add to your choices traditional Skagit and Scandi heads from Airflow and RIO, Airflo’s new “Switch Streamer” and “Switch Float”, RIO’s Switch Chucker, and the Wulff Ambush. Plenty of choices. Too many.

And we haven’t even talked about running lines yet.

We are spending a great deal of time really getting these rods dialed in with the right lines, as well as discovering the pluses and minuses of the new short lines and different running lines on these ultra-light rods. I feel as though we are close to halfway through our testing.

I’ll start off with some recommendations we have come up with thus far. Please remember that most of our crew approaches spey casting from a mostly Scandi/traditional point of view. We make no claims of being Skagit experts.

SAGE ONE TROUTSPEY:

240 gr Scandi, OPST Commando 225 (12′), and RIO 250 gr SkagitTrout Max. (Still to come, Commandos in 200 gr and 250 gr, Ambush and Skagit Max Short)

This rod likes a 240 gr Scandi head (29′) a lot, but it might be a touch long for shorter anglers or when you’re right to the top of your waders. Dewey, Sara and I all thought it was perfectly balanced and threw with ease. Dewey and I are both 6’1″ (6’4″ with the flat brim trucker). For us there was no real problem with timing or speed. Sara (5’3″) on the other hand, had to work a little harder and lift her hands higher, especially when wading over her knees. This rod was designed with sustained anchor casts in mind, so it’s no surprise that you have to “overload the D” with such a short rod. But once you get it the lines sails. Probably the line for early season (Nov/Dec) floating presentations.

The 250 gr RIO Skagit Trout Max (11′) is designed specifically for this rod, and it works that way. At 11′ feet, you’re going to go through a learning curve, even if you’re an accomplished spey caster. So short that pre-launch moves are almost non-existent. Keep your hands low, and do not try to load up a D-loop. A continuous sustained anchor sweep and launch works wonders. Don’t stop! We are finding a 10′ MOW tip works much better than a poly-leader. I think the extra mass helps keep you on anchor, and gives all that energy somewhere to dissipate. We like the 5×5 iMOW the best for the Missouri.

The 225r OPST Commando (12′) is a little bit smoother and lighter, but probably requires a bit more skill. These are new to us and we’re still learning. OPST actually recommends a 175 gr head, which we have thrown but find hard to feel. An expert sustained anchor Skagit-head would probably fly it across the river. We do like the extra foot of length. Our comrades over at Red’s Fly Shop on the Yakima are recommending a 300 gr Commando, so it seems we are lacking a consensus on this one.

These lines are designed by Ed Ward and Jerry French (total Guru’s), so it’s hard for me to argue with their recommendations (175 gr). I think we just need some more time on the water with these.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14836″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]

ECHO SR 4106:

RIO 225 gr Skagit Max Short (17′), OPST 225 Commando (12′) and Scandi 270

It’s important to me that we get this rod dialed in, as it comes in at a price more tolerable to most folks than the Sage ONE ($329 v. $950). This rod has been the trickiest to get properly lined up, but the “SR” stands for “switch rod”. This rod was designed as a switch, not a spey. It’s a little lighter in the tip, so you have to be careful about overlooking it.

It makes no sense on paper, but our favorite line thus far is the RIO Skagit Max Short 225 gr (17′). According to the charts, we should be 100 grains above that (or more), but the rod loves this head. Dewey and I spent a good deal of time throwing it with a 10′ 5×5 iMow tip attached, and it sailed with power, speed and a tight loop. Really more like a Scandi head. It had no problem turning over the tip and weighted fly.

A 270gr Scandi also sailed on this rod, but we ran into the same problems we did on the Sage ONE Troutspey. It will be a little long for some folks, depending on your height and casting stroke, and very close attention needs to be paid to your load and anchor point. The Skagit Max Short performed way better and almost as smooth.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14837″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]

ECHO GLASS SWITCH 4106:

OPST Commando 225 gr, Scandi 270 gr

The same specs as the Echo SR – 10’6″ 4 weight – but a completely different animal. This fiberglass rod has a slow action with latent power perfect for Skagit lines. It also liked the 270 Scandi, but the above mentioned problems were probably magnified a little more.

This rod really likes the OPST Commando 225, and we also recommend using a MOW tip vs. a polyleader. We highly recommend all of the glass ECHO switch and spey rods. You can make a lot of little mistakes and still pull a rabbit out of your hat. Our only complaint is that physically smaller anglers notice the weight difference over graphite models. Dewey and I think it feels like any other two-hander, but Sara commented on the “extra-heavy feeling”. This has been true of most women+ECHO glass at our spey clinics. Still, they are among our favorite rods, especially for the price ($279-299).

RUNNING LINES:

We have always been fans of traditional plastic coated running lines (built like a fly line), but have been using mono shooting lines more and more, especially with these ultra-light Troutspey rods. These rods do not really give you any advantages when casting, nor are they easier. It’s more about the “fun-factor” and matching the appropriate sized gear to your quarry.

Our problem is that we fish on a very big river with big winds, and the fish tend to hold in the “middle”. We need maximum distance out of our gear. Using mono running lines gives us some distance advantage.

Our favorite is the OPST Lazar line, which is a newer and highly touted mono. While OPST claims several advantages over other mono running lines, I find that the small diameter and super slick coating are most noticeable.

We also use the RIO Slickshooter mono running lines, but are not big fans of the “Gripshooter lines. The grippy coating on the last 15′ of the running line pretty much negates any mono running line advantage. We find this especially true with these lighter heads. Also, the Gripshooter coating pulls of pretty easily, and it’s more expensive.

One huge disadvantage we are finding with mono lines has to do with weeds.We typically don’t do that much spey fishing this time of year, so floating weeds are not an issue. In the winter, the Missouri is crystal clear.

But with all of the line testing we’re doing right now, we’re out there during the weed “breakup”. The mono running lines are going to sink, and when they do they are going to grab some grass. We are discovering that even a couple inches of weeds (not much) can stop these lightweight heads dead in the air. So, for the time being we are back on the Airflo Ridge Running line (dropping in diameter from 30b to 20lb, and RIO’s Connect Core. We will switch over to mono later in the fall. If fall ever gets here.

ONGOING:

Consider this part one of what will be several to come, and most information here is not set in stone. If nothing else, maybe this information will help you sort out your own Troutspey rod and line setup. More to come soon.

SKAGIT POINTERS:

If you’re looking for a few Skagit pointers at Headhunters, seek out Ninch. He is the most accomplished Skagit caster on our staff, having absorbed all of Mike McCune’s teachings at our spey clinic. Remember: continuous sweep and launch stroke!

These new short heads definitely present some challenges. There are a blast to cast, but will take a little tweaking to your style, depending on your background. Also, you can use them on single handers. Might be worth a try under the dam for some fish taco materials.

DEMO’S AVAILABLE!

We have all of these rods available for demo, and we’d love to hear as much feedback as possible. Don’t be shy about coming in and trying one out for the day.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Double Rigging a Streamer

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October and November are terrific streamer fishing months on Montana’s Missouri River. Everything this is donning their fall suits including the trees, animals, and our big and fat trout.

Halloween is on the way and the Brown Trout are dressing for the occasion.

Why not toss some streamers while fishing the MO. Tired of throwing just one streamer fly? Try two.

Here on the Missouri we are not afraid of a couple things while chucking the big bug. Strong tippet material and double rigging.

We commonly use 0X, or 1X, or even 2X for those delicate streamer presentations. But usually the heavy diameters.

We love to double rig as well. This is the 3rd time I’ve posted this in the last 3 or 4 years but have been requested to do so again. So here it is.

Double Rigging a Streamer
Double Rigging Streamer Diagram Headhunters Fly Shop

We like heavy  tippets and this swivel. Or a tippet ring. Or a blood knot with the streamer attached to the tag end of one of the two knot legs. Your choice. The swivel allows you to tie any butt section or formerly tapered leader along with any size tippet toward the terminal end.

Some tie two streamer together with the second fly off of the first fly bend. That works as well. Need something new to try? Try this. We like the bigger fly on the back end chasing the smaller fly toward the fly line end.

Enjoy and see you swinging a few out of your favorite streamer flat this fall.

NRS Freestone Drifter @ Headhunters Fly Shop

Get your NRS Freestone this Fall @ Headhunters Fly Shop

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Come out and try the NRS Freestone today.

You want one? We got ’em.

Our DEMO Boat is for sale and you can take it on home on the M&M trailer or put it on your Snowmobile trailer. Either is a great idea. One in the box can be shipped to you for $5495. Easy peasy and you can inflate it for the weekend!

This boat weighs about 250lbs fully set up. Remarkable. You can rig it and toss it over the fence with your fishing buddy. That makes this boat perfect for those who like to sneak around and fish less pressured waters.

Lots of reviews out there on this maneuverable and lightweight hard sided raft like drifter. Our friend Gilligan on the Truckee River over in CA/NV says:

Rigid like a drift boat, bouncy like a raft. Here’s the take. Like a raft this thing can bounce off rocks, you can portage it, you can draft in very shallow water, you can put in cowboy style anywhere you want (don’t need a boat ramp,) it’s also self bailing like a raft, but you can close the valves and make it non bailing. Unlike a raft, it tracks like a drift boat, and maneuvers around the river with very little effort. It will hold weight (anglers) and anchors like a hard boat. The cool thing is this boat is quiet, no hull slap like a drift boat, fish have no idea you’re there.

We have a new NRS Freestone Drifter in the box ready to drop ship or we can sell you the already inflated and ready to go Headhunters Demo boat.

Screen Shot 2015-10-04 at 5.47.11 PM

 

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SIMMS Top 5 for Fall

SIMMS Top 5 for Fall

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SIMMS Top 5 for Fall here at Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana.

SIMMS Top 5 for FallWhile the weather is currently hot on the Missouri River it will turn sour as fast as your Mother-In-Law during wedding negotiations. Being prepared for any weather changes in the fall heading into winter is imperative for 4 season comfort while fishing the west.

SIMMS is the clear choice in an industry filled with high quality fly fishing gear. Based in Bozeman Montana SIMMS products are designed with the angler as the primary focus not as the secondary motive as many other manufacturers.

 

SIMMS Top 5 for Fall
SIMMS Bulkley Jacket @ Headhunters Fly Shop

SIMMS G3 Bootfoot Waders

The primary way to stay warm and dry is to have a great pair of waders. The best way to stay warm in your waders is to add the boot foot option to your super dry GoreTex set of SIMMS G3 Waders. The SIMMS Bootfoot G3 is your bet friend this fall, winter, and spring. Insulated BOGS boots will keep you not only dry but as warm as your down slippers you rock at home. Easy on, easy off, and all day comfort will lead you to believe that there are no bad weather days. None. The most comfortable wader made in the USA on the market. Period.

SIMMS New and Improved Bulkey Jacket

This is the new and improved Bulkley Jacket. The previous model was moderately priced with none of the new tech-advances that the current model integrates into it’s very being.

GORE-TEX® FORTRESS STOKED BY PRIMALOFT® SILVER INSULATION
Simms’ Bulkley Jacket delivers fortress-like protection from washing-machine weather. Its waterproof breathable GORE-TEX® shell envelopes heat-generating Primaloft® Silver insulation. Storage pockets house multiple large fly boxes while the water-resistant zippers keep contents secure and dry. Shingle Cuff™ construction in the sleeves eliminates line-catching points for snag-free casts.

SIMMS Vapor Wading Boot

The best wading boot on the market. The first wading boot, in my opinion, that does not wear like a traditional clunky wading boot. The SIMMS Vapor Wading Boot slips on like a shoe and actually wears more like a shoe than a boot. Lightweight, sporty, and well designed the Vapor is one that you will truly appreciate.

The Simms Vapor Wading Boot was designed for the backcountry wader who finds himself on his feet all day. Over cobble, on the trail, and crossing the creek. We find it to be the latest and greatest lightweight wading boot front he company that has made some great ones. The Vapor made an immediate impact upon it’s release last summer. Lots of “Holy Cow, this is comfortable”. We agree.

SIMMS Top 5 for Fall
SIMMS Cold Weather LS Shirt @ Headhunters Fly Shop

SIMMS Cold Weather Long Sleeve Shirt

This waffle lined fleece flannel will be your favorite layering piece this fall and winter. Oversized for a base layer underneath this comfortable Cold Weather LS Shirt could replace your well worn hoody!

SIMMS ProDry Gloves

Ninch of Headhunters just loves this glove. The SIMMS ProDry Glove is fully armored with GoreTex exterior and a set of fleece half fingered inner gloves for all day comfort. Need to tie on a tiny sz 20 BWO? No wires, just pop your hands from the fully waterproof outer glow and tie away. Then just stuff them back in and cast away! Get them at Headhunters this fall along with many other SIMMS GoreTex products.

We love the product line and you can only find it @ Headhunters as the exclusive SIMMS Dealer on the Missouri River.

SIMMS Headhunters Special Orders

 

Late September Missouri River Flies

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Flies for the late September time frame.

Fishing the last couple days pretty tough. Inconsistent for sure. Guides and anglers alike soaking their sorrows at both Izaak’s and Joe’s Bar the last couple nights.

The water levels dropped a bit and the high and bright sun didi not help with the bite at all.

This week ahead is looking way better for fall like weather. Bring it.

Here are some of the favorites for the last week of September.

Late September Missouri River Flies

Left Top to bottom
Logan’s Big Secret Hopper
Never Sink Trude
Quigley’s Split Flag Adams
Shimazaki CDC Ant

Middle Top to Bottom
Murdered Out Tungsten Zebra Midge
Green Weenie
Little Green Machine
Juju Baetis Tungsten
Egan’s Frenchie

Right Top to Bottom
Purple Lightning Bug
Tungsten Brush Hog
UV Yum Yum Smokey
Ninch’s Bubble Yum
Jesse’s Jemstoner Red

OPST Skagit Gear

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]OPST – short for Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics – is a new player in the Spey market, but with very old roots. Owners Ed Ward and Jerry French are part of the crew that invented Skagit lines and techniques. In an effort to build exactly what they wanted, they formed OPST and introduced two products that are quickly becoming popular.

The Commando Head is their own version of the Skagit head. Shorter and lighter than other “Skagit” heads, this really is something different. It is perfect for the shorter rods we use for trout and Steelhead, and they are a perfect match for the new “troutspey” rods coming to the market.

Lazar Line is the first OPST product I head about from local Skagit guru Erich Bittman. Shoots great, doesn’t tangle, hydrophobic, etc. Basically, most mono running line geeks I talked to swore by the stuff.

We are carrying both products at the shop (and online), and while we are mostly a Scandi crowd around here, I expect the Commando Head/Lazar Line setup to be seen on more and more rods around the Missouri  this winter. Including mine.

If you don’t know who Ed and Jerry are, ask around. Instead of explaining it to you here, I’ll let you check out some of their videos, which are really cool.

[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”OPST VIDEO” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyU5u1JTUsI”][us_separator text=”OPST COMMANDO” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M24h0SHBSCg”][us_separator text=”OPST LAZAR LINE” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=–JYunDrxJM”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Troutspey Around the Corner

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Swing Season (spey season) is approaching. We’re not there yet. There’s still some big hatches to be had, as well as our epic Montana streamer fishing. But it’s getting close.

Sara, Ninch and I are starting to get the lineup card in order for winter spey season on the Missouri. We were down at the ramp today tossing the Echo Fiberglass Switch #4, with various lines. Included were the Airflow Switch Streamer and the brand new RIO Skagit Max Troutspey.

Tossed them both well, but those smaller rods seem to like the mono running line we rigged the Troutspey with.

There’s very few anglers around the Missouri River right now. Must be the smoke. It’s thick.

The quiet “slack” time allows us to walk over to the river and do some testing. Might even get a 6pack from Joe’s on the way there. Joe’s is on the way there. And back.

If you’re interested in attending one of our Spey clinics this winter, call the shop to find out about dates and sign up. The first class already has some victims.

Stay tuned for more Troutspey…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”13798″ link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Late Summer Season Missouri River Flies

Late Summer Season Missouri River Flies

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Flies for smoky skies. The fish don’t seem to mind. They are protected by water.

Clear as mud right?

Happy Friday to all. Shop open daily 630am till 830pm.

Come on out with your beer goggles on. That may help with the smoke?

Top Row Left to Right
Pine Squirrel Leech, Snapping Craw, Kraft’s Crawdad, Kraft’s Kreelex, Flesh Eating Sculpin, Coffey’s Sparkle Minnow, Skiddish Smolt Copper

Middle Row
Al’s Groomer, More or Less Hopper Black, More or Less Hopper Peach, Sternersen’s CFO Flamer Purple, Burk’s Spent Hopper

Bottom Row
Buzzball, Cluster Midge, Arrick’s Parachute Ant, Bloom’s Parachute Flying Ant Rust, Bloom’s Para Caddis, Carlson’s Purple Haze

The Sleeper may be the PULSE

The Sleeper may be the PULSE

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I cast the new SAGE PULSE today.

I have fished the SAGE MOD as well as the SAGE BOLT this summer already.

Like the MOD, could take or leave the BOLT, and love the PULSE.

It is the price point of the three. Coming in at 450 bones.

The Graphite IIIe is reminiscent of the XP.

It really does cast well with a couple different lines on it. The RIO Gold, the RIO Grand, RIO Perception.

The PULSE may be the Jewel of the new SAGE introductions.

Come in and try both the MOD and the PULSE. We got ’em lined up and ready to roll.

I can’t wait to fish this new IIIe selection on the Missouri River.

How about you?

SAGE One Outfit

SAGE ONE 590 Outfit @ Headhunters Fly Shop

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ACCURACY STARTS WITH YOUR EYES. IT ENDS WITH THE FLY IN FRONT OF THEIRS.

Forget what you know about outfits. Our all-new ONE Outfit is for fly fishers who know what they’re doing and who recognize that we’ve assembled our best tools and made them water-ready. This 9’, 5-weight ONE is perfectly balanced with a sweet Sage 4250 bronze reel that’s preloaded with backing, RIO’s ultra-low stretch Perception line and even a RIO leader. All you truly have to do is add water.

The SAGE ONE remains one of Headhunters Fly Shop top sellers since it debuted. The reason? A perfect rod for so many situations. This is your everyday rod. Sure you may have a big stick for streamers and a stiff 6 weight for the bobber rig of choice. But your daily driver could certainly be the SAGE ONE.

Check out the rod technology page on the SAGE site. Super cool information for those of your who need the techy side of the equation. We just know the “Konnetic” means better casts for all. The reason according to the Headhunters gang is clear. Less wobbly back and front casts means elimination of the sine wave on both ends, meaning you are tight on the line sooner than ever before…if you need further explanation stop in and chat with us. Better yet take one, the ONE, out and cast it for yourself. The fish fighting ability will compliment the ease of cast and you too will want the ONE!

Why not buy it in the kit, the outfit, the whole ball of wax. It’s like getting something for nothing. How often does that happen? Almost never. See why we are big fans of the SAGE ONE Outfit and stop by today. Or better yet, we will pop the ONE in the mail!

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FEATURES

Konnetic Technology®
Fast action
Black Ice blank color
Black thread wraps with Bronze trim wraps
Fuji ceramic stripper guides
Hard chromed snake guides and tip-top
Walnut wood insert and Golden Bronze anodized aluniminum up-locking reel seat
Super Plus snub-nose, half-wells cork handle
Sage 4250 Bronze reel
WF5F RIO Perception line with ConnectCore technology
100 yards of 20# backing
9′ 4X RIO Powerflex tapered leader
Custom ballistic cloth rod & reel case[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/26791493″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid orderby=”title” order=”asc” ids=”8133,8107,8033″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Nixon Blaster Fishing

Fly Hacker: Camp & Boat Tunes

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Whether it’s a casual float/fish day with the family, the front of a flats skiff, or around the campfire in Steelhead camp, more and more folks are taking their music/media into the outdoors. It’s so easy now. You’re iPhone can hold thousands of tunes, and the myriad of Bluetooth speakers available offer great sound at an affordable price.

Before the carpet bombing begins, let me say that I am not promoting the blasting of loud music while fly fishing on the Missouri – or any other – River. You gotta have some respect, and keep the volume at a level that fills the gunnels of your boat, but no more. I often hit the “stop” button when I’m approaching a group of anglers. If it’s a bunch of college girls in bikinis, I turn it up.

But it’s not just for the boat. It’s always nice to play some mellow tunes at lunch, or in camp during the evenings. A quality speaker can even drown out the never ending ramblings of the “experts” that seem to show up no matter where I camped.

Headhunters pal and World Angler Jon Yousko (see the most recent Drake issue) turned me on to the Nixon Blaster ($125 at Nixon). This is by far the best on-water speaker I have used.

The rubber exterior can handle some serious bumps and bruises. You can literally throw it around, and it’s “weather-proof” as well. I would call it almost water-proof. JY and I have bombed around some heavy chop in the keys for days with the Blaster cranked as saltwater spray continually soaked it. Kept going. (full disclosure: I think JY finally smoked his first Blaster after long term continual use in the saltwater)

The rubber coating also makes it “stick” wherever you set it. That can be on the gear bags, the cooler or the console of a skiff. It doesn’t slide around. The Nixon Blaster also has excellent battery life, and I’ve yet to have mine run down in a single day.

Another huge advantage over some other BT speakers is that the nixon has volume, play/pause and skip buttons on the speaker. This means you can keep your iPhone protected somewhere safe, and still have reasonable control over what you hear.

But the most important thing when choosing a speaker is the sound, and the Nixon has excellent, deep sound that meets that of a high end Bose BT Speaker that I have at home. Good bass also means you can keep the volume down a bit.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nixon.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2Fthe-blaster-H028.html” style=”4″ label=”NIXON BLASTER” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_image image=”12816″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]One of my favorite places to take some tunes is on a multi-day float trip. Tunes in the boat are great. But tunes in camp are a must have for some. Myself included.

The key here is charging the device. If you leave your iPhone on “Airplane” mode, it should last a couple of days. But the speaker is going to croak. Enter some lightweight solar panels.

Ultralight solar panels have been around for several years, but the technology and options have really improved in the last 2. I use the Anker 14W Dual -Port solar charger (Amazon). It costs $50, has a pocket big enough for a couple of USB cables and the corner grommets allow me to lash it the the top of the gear in the back of the raft.

On a 5 day Steelhead trip last fall, we played tunes while we charged both devices during the day, and played them all night in camp. Of course you will need sun, and there is no guarantee of that on a late-fall Steelhead trip in a steep walled canyon.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker%C2%AE-Dual-Port-Charger-PowerIQ-Technology%2Fdp%2FB00E3OL5U8%2Fref%3Dsr_1_1%3Fie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bqid%3D1439332745%26amp%3Bsr%3D8-1%26amp%3Bkeywords%3Danker%2Bsolar%2Bpanel” style=”4″ label=”Anker 14W Solar Panel” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][us_image image=”12819″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]So that’s how we setup our Boat/Camp Tunes. Pretty simple, and amazingly affordable. Technology advances, and so do we.

I don’t roll this every day, but when the time is right (spring streamer fishing, Florida Keys, Steelhead Camp) I do. If I’m with anglers I don’t know or in a more intense situation, I don’t. As long as we keep the volume at a moderate level, everyone should be happy.

And while I love some AC/DC in Camp, I’m more likely to listen to some Wrinkle Neck Mules on the river…[/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3R5bGUlM0QlMjJib3JkZXIlM0ElMjAwJTNCJTIwd2lkdGglM0ElMjAxMDAlMjUlM0IlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0ElMjA0MnB4JTNCJTIyJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZiYW5kY2FtcC5jb20lMkZFbWJlZGRlZFBsYXllciUyRmFsYnVtJTNEMzk2ODQxOTM0MyUyRnNpemUlM0RzbWFsbCUyRmJnY29sJTNEZmZmZmZmJTJGbGlua2NvbCUzRDA2ODdmNSUyRnRyYW5zcGFyZW50JTNEdHJ1ZSUyRiUyMiUyMHNlYW1sZXNzJTNFJTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwJTNBJTJGJTJGd3JpbmtsZW5lY2ttdWxlcy5iYW5kY2FtcC5jb20lMkZhbGJ1bSUyRmEtZnJlZS1oaXN0b3J5LW9mJTIyJTNFQSUyMEZyZWUlMjBIaXN0b3J5JTIwT2YuLi4lMjBieSUyMFdyaW5rbGUlMjBOZWNrJTIwTXVsZXMlM0MlMkZhJTNFJTNDJTJGaWZyYW1lJTNF[/vc_raw_html][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12821″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review

YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review

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The jury is in and we have a winner.

I set out to test the validity of the claims on YETI Coolers website about this supposed best insulated tumbler of all time. The reviews from their very own website were outlandish! Check this…

I bought the Yeti Rambler Two weeks ago from my local outfitters store. Honestly, it is just the best mug, cup, drink carrier out there. I have had this for a little over two weeks and the yeti rambler is amazing and has kept my coffee, beer, sweet tea, and water the perfect temp every time. I take a sip and wow, just WOW. This thing is amazing! I can’t believe how ice cold the water is in the middle of the night as I’m taking a sip while checking on the newborn. Absolutely amazing how the liquid is still ice cold after 8 hrs. That is if I haven’t downed it already.

 

 

I was skeptical. I, we, you see all kinds of bullshit spread around by all kinds of folks. You gotta do your own research.

So I decided to my own research. Why not do the test in conjunction with the Tervis Tumbler. One of our favorite drink companions the Tervis Tumbler has been in our hands with various types of liquids including Vodka, coffee, beer, Kool-Aid, and too many other liquids to list.

YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review

YETI Rambler Headhunters Fly Shop
Filled cups 7:46pm.  2 cups. 1 Winner.

The Set-Up

YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review
Ice for the test

One YETI Rambler 20oz against one Tervis Tumbler 16oz mug. The air temperature in my kitchen was a constant 68F. I filled both with 163 grams of ice @ 7:46pm. Both had lids on. The YETI Rambler 20oz with the lid it came with which is clear plastic with a drinking hole in it. A rubber gasket allows for a close and tight fitting lid. The Tervis Tumbler had a lid too, the after maker lid with a sliding/closing drink hole. I left it slid open to mimic the YETI version as closely as possible.

Ed Note: I gotta say that the sliding close/open option on the Tervis Tumbler is nice. When driving down shitty dirt roads it is nice to close the lid as not to slosh the cocktail coffee all over your pants on front seat of your truck. The YETI Rambler lid does not have a closed option.

Tervis Tumble loses 158 grams in less than 8hrs.
Tervis Tumble loses 158 grams in less than 8hrs.

8 Hours later…

First ice check of the Headhunters Fly Shop test v.1 of YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review was at 5:11 in the morning. The Tervis Tumbler 16oz had lost 158 grams of its original 163 grams of ice. The YETI Rambler 20oz is starting to look good already.

The YETI Rambler 20 oz. only lost 20 grams of ice at 5:11 in the morning. A trickle of water poured from the YETI Rambler.

Only 20 grams lost at 7 1/2 hrs.
Only 20 grams lost at 7 1/2 hrs.

Just awesome. Clearly the winner at this point, nearly 8 hours in to the test, is the YETI Rambler.

YETI Rambler has the edge…

Air temperatures still holding at 68F. The ice in the YETI was rock solid. No bad ice here.

Fast forward to 1:26pm, now near 18hrs of ice in the YETI Rambler I poured out another 48 grams. Still plenty of ice to cool your beverage here! Performing much better than I anticipated for sure.

Rock solid ice.
Rock solid ice.

24 Hours into the test…

At nearly 24 hrs into the YETI Rambler vs. Tervis Tumbler Test and Review the YETI still had plenty of ice. Honest. The photos prove it.

I have used the Tervis Tumbler since our good friend Capt. Scott Yetter introduced me to the Professional Drinking Cup a number of years ago. I adopted it and had been bragging them up ever since. Hot coffee in the morning and cold cocktails int he afternoon. Rocked it in the boat for guests and at home for guests.

I may be changing my tune as of today. The YETI Rambler is clearly the mug to have in your possession this holiday period and beyond. Pick up a few of them for your friends, and for your wife.

The ice after 24 hours. YETI Rambler is the clear winner.
The ice after 24 hours. YETI Rambler is the clear winner.

The Tervis Tumbler is out of the game. But, it comes in at under 12 bucks. The YETI Rambler 20 oz is not cheap at a penny under 30 bucks. The performance alone may push you towards the YETI product although the Tervis Tumbler with the lid configuration and if you can pick up nearly 3 of them for the same price as one YETI Rambler you may find yourself filling your kitchen cabinets with a few Tervis products.

YETI Rambler the clear Winner!

I have not done a test on hot liquids but I am sure it will fare just fine. I have had several cups of coffee from the YETI Rambler and love it. Holds the temp well.

We have both for your pleasure at Headhunters Fly Shop in Craig Montana. Give us a call and we will use the magic of YETI, no the magic of the USPS and get a few in the mail for you this holiday season.

 

Just Add Vise Clouser Crayfish Tying Video @ Headhunters Fly Shop

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Popular fly this time of year.

Guides and guests alike are tossing this big fly up front and getting it deep…or shallow.

Try one with a tiny mayfly dangling off of his Crayfishy tail.

Enjoy the video this somewhat soggy morning Tuesday in Craig MT. The bugs will come slower this cool day. Plenty of rain yesterday. Still raining hard as I write this blog at 820pm. River temps cool and the fish are hungry.

Come in and get the Crayfish Clouser “Just Add Vise” kit only at Headhunters. Our homegrown products will keep you tying those late summer nights. And this one is quite popular.

Included is everything you need for tying at least 24 flies. Furry Foam, Wool Yarn, Lead Wire, Ultra Wire, Thread Pheasant Tail, Hen Neck, Indian Rooster Saddle Patch, 25 3XL Streamer/Nymph Hooks. WOW! And the video link too.

Ninch and John put these together for those who wanted to tie our most popular fly patterns. Why not do it at home before you arrive? We give you that chance. Tie away our fishy friends.

 

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Foamies and Chubbies!

Foamies and Chubbies!

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We got your foamie and chubby obsession dialed.

You need a fix? We got your back.

Need a big floaty fly for the Yellowstone? For the Blackfoot? For any place you are heading?

We got it. Stuffed bins of all synthetic flies…some don’t go that route but that is a personal choice.

I choose the one that floats the best.

A perfect dropper holder for those needing to attach a bead below.

A foamie on the Mo? Well you sure could.

Some suggest chopping off some of the poly hair to make it a lower rider. A good idea for a river that likes flies in the film.

Stock up today for any freestone mission you are headed on and may as well have a few of the baby foams for you Mo River box.

Happy times out there. A marked drop in boats as we ready ourselves for August. Don’t like crowds? August is a good month for  fewer folks not he river here as historically the freestones in the state are on fire. This year? Some restrictions may keep you away from them. Or not? Some of the restrictions scare some folks away. Check it out and go where they aren’t!

This coming week a blog about the hoppers and how to them too.

 

Epic Glass Rods Montana

Epic Glass Rods at Headhunters

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Headhunters has just received some of the highly touted EPIC fiberglass fly rods from Swift Fly Fishing. These will be demo rods for customers to try, either in the casting lane or on the river. They’ve been out on the grass constantly since we unboxed them the other day.

Epic rods are built in New Zealand, and are available as both built rods or blanks. Many of the world top custom builders are using them, and the “fast glass” action is pretty remarkable. Light in the hand for glass, and pretty quick.

We have the 8′ #4, 8′ #5 and 8’6″ #6 at the shop. Whether you would be interested in purchasing one or not, I’ll promise you a smile will appear on your face when you start to throw. Come by and check them out for a few minutes or a day on the water.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12688″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Epic rods are “studio built” in New Zealand, and you get to make a few choices when ordering. Blank color (above), reel seat color and style (limited), fighting butt and grip style. Every Epic I’ve ever seen was beautiful. The blanks are translucent and backlight makes them glow.

I’m very curious to see what the reaction to these rods will be. They are probably “niche” rods for most, but the performance is capable of using them as a daily driver. They are so fun to cast that you will want to drive them daily.

Below, Headhunters staffer Alex Husby is stretching out the line with an 805 Epic. He liked it, along with the others.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12689″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Sun Season on the Missouri River

Sun Season on the Missouri River

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Protect yourself!

That sun is hot. The clothing options today for keeping that skin pasty white are endless.

Headhunters has all the gear you need. From sunscreen to sun shirts, to sungloves to sun hats.

Sun Season on the Missouri River
Sungear @ Headhunters

Cover it up this year. Summer is not over. Lots of sun remaining.

Sun Season on the Missouri River
Hats too!
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Missouri River Montana Fishing Report 7.17.15

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The fishing is getting tough.

That is the bottom line. The techy dry fly stuff is what I am commenting on. The upper river is full of anglers and most are hunting heads.

The dam is fishing well with the traditional summer nymphs working well. You know the stuff…Zebra’s, small mayflies, and whatever your fav pattern for the late summer is. Patterns fall in and out of fashion as the seasons pass. What will be the hot dam nymph this year? Only time will tell.

The middle of the river is the quietest. A reason? Try it you may like it. Some weeds in the canyon but the nymphing is good and the blind dry game is fun with lots of different types of water to play in/on!

The PMD’s continue to show daily. Not as many duns, but miraculously a decent spinner fall daily. Get on it when it happens because it will pass you by, headed downstream to other hungry mouths. Skinny diminutive patterns work best. Leave the fatty ones in your box. And the super hi-viz one too. Save it for next season.

The Trico’s hatch daily and the spinner fall at 9am. Look for calm mornings to start your day. Why not see us before you head out at 6am daily for all your river needs. Don’t be afraid to throw a caddis through these feeding fish for success too. You don’t have to match the hatch all the time. Do you?

Hoppers? Ants? Attractors?

Cooler through Saturday and warming again on Sunday. Again in the 80’s for the week ahead. The water temps are falling into the lower 60’s and we are holding at 4140cfs.

New gear daily for the fall season. SIMMS jackets, waders, hoody’s, sunshirts, hats, and much more. Your customer service driven friendly fly shop in Craig MT open nightly to 9pm.

Squeeky's Missouri River Caddis Box

Squeeky’s Missouri River Caddis Box

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My Caddis box for the last few years. I have another less used box full of caddis flies that used to work.

They probably still do but they have fallen out of my personal favor.

Still rocking another full box or two of soft hackle caddis flies.

Squeeky's Missouri River Caddis Box
Squeeky’s Primary Caddis Fly Box for the Missouri River

But this is my primary caddis box. If I cannot find it in this one I must not need it.

It does not mean that the flies in this box actually work all the time. They commonly do, and they commonly do not.

This last week it has been my go to box when the fish stop eating the PMD. Find a tough fish that will not succumb to a Trico or a PMD? Try a skittering caddis.

You can get away with a bit of slide on your fly and the fish may still be interested.

Try the caddis. This is a caddis river.

With the lack of caddis last year, 2014, we are so stoked to see them buzzing around. Are they as thick as I have seen them? No. Not at all. But they are a player morning til night.

A few guides and shop staff heading out after work and finding success with the poor flying moth like caddis fly. Honest.

The reports are pretty good yes sir. Shuttles after the others shut down for the day. Come in late and fish til dark!

 

Top Row: X-Caddis in a few sizes. 12-18. Great fly here on the Mo. Low Rider is the key so many of the flies ride in the film. Thanks Craig Mathew’s. Outrigger Caddis. Not as good this year? Kingreys Hi-Viz and Others. Flat winged beaut’s! Delta Winged Missouri River Specials and King’s River Caddis. A perfect profile. Black Slick Water Caddis for night time use or at dusk. A dark winged fly can stand out well against the late evening glare!

2nd Row:  Bloom’s Caddis and Stalcups Caddis. Both excellent. The Bloom’s Caddis is righteous. A great Mo River fly pattern. And you can see it! Some Elk Hair, Slickwater, and other hair winged flies. Angleo’s Cut Wing, homegrown, Translucent Emergers, and Stalcups Clear Winged. Double Duck, Cornfed Caddis, CDC patterns, Stocking Winged, Buzzballs, and Spents.

3rd Row:  Buzzball’s, Cluster Midge, Spruce’s. Hairwinged and Bloom’s. Grey Trudes. A great pattern I learned from Neale Streaks. Skittering Caddis. A good afternoon idea. Elk Hairs, Poly Winged floaters. CDC and Elk size 15-17. A very good pattern as the fish get stinky later in July! Bailey’s Stocking Winged Caddis tied in Italy. Translucent Pupa’s and Translucent Emergers. A bundle of folks use these flies daily. Try it! Some fuzzy and Hi Viz in the last bin.

4th Row: Flat Winged Para’s and Spruce Moth. Small X-Caddis 16, 18, 20. Various Spent Caddis including Pat Elam’s Spent tied for the Mo. Translucent Pupa’s. Spents, Fuzz Face, Cut Wings, etc. Stocking Wings and other CDC winged caddis flies.

Boxes like this one above are always a work in progress. Flies fall in and out of favor with both fish and fishermen.

How do you roll? Love just a few or do you love lots of patterns? Some stay true to just a few.  I go the other way. I am a collector and fly hoarder. Love flies for sure. Yes I do.

The caddis should be in play for some time and are always a favorite for Missouri River fly fishing anglers. It is prevalent up and down the Missouri River corridor.

Mostly tan and some dark and some green flies in our mix. Always a good idea to tie on a tan one. You cannot go wrong if you only fish the tan ones.

Try a caddis fly next time you are frustrated with the mayfly reaction here on the river.

See you this holiday for fun on the river and in town later that night. Rocket to Uranus playing on Izaak’s Porch @ 8pm. Fun all day long at Headhunters. See you beginning at 6am and late til 9pm daily.

 

 

Sage Salt 11 weight

Sage Salt – Review

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]When you grow up in the West and fly fishing is part of your life, nothing feels much more natural in your hand than a 9′ 5 or 6 weight fly rod. Except maybe a beer. And I have two hands so both feel great.

But if you grown up in Smithers, BC, it’s probably a 14′ 9 weight two-hander. And if you grew up on Big Pine Key (the Isle of Misfits), a 9′ 12 weight Tarpon stick feels as natural in your hand as rusty bicycle handlebars.

Where am I going? In my opinion the biggest challenge trout anglers face when fishing the flats is the change in gear. It’s not the hook-set, not spotting the fish, standing higher over the water, longer casts or guides screaming at you. It’s the unfamiliar feeling of that broomstick action 10 to 12 weight in your hand.

You may be a great trout caster, but the first time you step on the bow of a skiff with a powerful Tarpon rod, you are probably going to display some suckiness. And it’s because that rod just doesn’t feel natural. Not even close.

I do a bit of Saltwater fishing, and it still doesn’t feel ‘natural’ for me to hold a rod over 8 or maybe 9 weight. I can do it, but I have to rewire my brain for a few minutes each morning. And after lunch. I find myself ‘thinking’ about the cast while executing it, something I do not do while trout or Steelhead fishing.

On my most recent trip to the Florida Keys, Julie and I took a pair of new Sage SALT rods. A 9′ #9 for the Permit we didn’t catch, and a 9′ #11 for Tarpon we did. (For techies, the #9 was lined with an Airflow Bruce Chard Tropical Punch, and the #11 with the new RIO Tarpon Quickshooter. Both were great.)

I had cast the SALT a few times on the grass, and last year at it’s introduction at the Fly Tackle Dealer Show. It felt incredible. Fast, light, forgiving. Cast close and far with equal prowess. All of those adjectives you read on every rod review ever written. But there was something a bit different. Something familiar.

But it wasn’t until we got out on the water that I realized that while it did not feel like a Sage ONE 5 weight, it definitely felt way more like a ‘fly rod’ than any other fast-action saltwater rod I had ever cast. Still foreign, yet somehow comfortable. Like Canada.

I noticed that Julie – who typically struggles a little with Tarpon rods – really didn’t have to adjust too much. She wasn’t launching perfect casts 90 feet into the wind, but she was getting it there at regular fishing distances. And she seemed to be concentrating on the placement and retrieve of the fly, more than trying to load up that rod. And that’s when you’re fishing.

The 9 weight really fished like an 8, which starts to get into that ‘familiar’ zone if you’re a trout fisherman. No problem getting it to load up and cast accurately.

It’s actually pretty easy to make a saltwater rod that everyone can cast. Just make it a noodle that loads with no effort, right? It’s been done before (Biix), and we actually had a very slow Epic fiberglass #10 with us as well (the Bandit, which was not designed for Tarpon fishing, but was a blast to fish with). Super easy to cast and quickly put it right on the spot. So why not use something like this?

Because it turns the already difficult battle with a Tarpon into an apocalyptic event. You can fight them well enough with a softer rod at the beginning of the fight. But as the battle turns from watching him run into bringing him in, things become problematic. You can’t turn the fish, and that last 30 feet to the boat is nearly impossible. And the fight is going to last longer because turning a fish can be tough.

Make an already long fight longer (twice as long?) and you might not be so happy. I know this because I watched Julie battle a 65 pounder for half an hour. We had it close enough to the boat to jump on for 15 of those minutes.

So, back to the SALT. It felt more ‘natural’ to me, and made it easier to transition from casting BWO dries on the Missouri one day, to throwing a large Tarpon Bunny west of Key West the next. It still had plenty of power to fight large Tarpon with, however, and that is very important to me (and most Keys guides, I’m certain). Really a perfect balance of easy (for the salt) casting and lifting power.

Highly recommended for trout nerds like us.[vc_icon color=”text” size=”xs” link=”” external=”0″ icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-star”][/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12253″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Cool image of Julie all bent up with the Swift Epic “Bandit”, and 7′ 9″ 10 weight. Tough to get a Tarpon to the boat with a rod that unforgiving. Swift has recently announced the Epic “Boca Grande” 12 weight, which unlike the Bandit was designed for Tarpon fishing. Should be great![/vc_column_text][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”8052″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana Trout Spey Micro Spey

Sage Trout Spey Announced

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Here’s the official announcement from Sage on the Trout Spey rods we hinted at in our Montana Spey video.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WASH. (June 11, 2015) – Sage builds on its successful ONE family of fly rods with the addition of the LITTLE ONE and the ONE Trout Spey. Both new rod families utilize Konnetic Technology®, Sage’s exclusive rod technology that allows for slimmer blank profiles with maximized strength and energy transfer without sacrificing line speed, responsiveness, and accuracy.

“Anglers looking for ultra-light rods and rods made specifically for chasing trout with a Spey rod, now have the just that in the world-class design of the ONE rod family,” says Sage chief rod designer, Jerry Siem.

The LITTLE ONE couples the light blank with an ultra-light, custom anodized, up-locking reel seat and compact snub-nose, half-wells cork handle. This attention to detail offers anglers an ultra-light feel and ultra-light action from tip to butt. This family will retail for $850 and will be available in August 2015.

The ONE Trout Spey rods are designed specifically for two-handed casting and swinging flies for trout. These ultra-light Spey rods are delicate enough to protect small flies on light tippets yet are powerful enough to cast modestly weighted streamers on light sink tips. The Super Plus cork mini-Spey fore and rear grip complete these two models. These ONE models will retail for $1050 and will be available August 2015.

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OTHER NEW RODS

Sage also announced the MOD (moderate action $850), VOLT (fast action $650), PULSE (fast action $450) and a revamped version of the CLICK Reel ($259-299).[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”12270″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”12269″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”12268″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]And if you haven’t already seen it, here’s a short we shot with Spey Guru and Sage Advisory member Mike McCune talking about the ONE Trout Spey and using it while we fished the Missouri  and Blackfoot. Mike had a great deal of input on the development of the ONE Troutspey.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/129327269″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

AVAILABLE IN AUGUST

We’re super excited to get the new Sage ONE Troutspey in the shop, and we will certainly be sweeping through the river with it this fall. We will also be attending the Fly Tackle Dealer Show in July and will have the scoop – as well as some hands on experience – with the other new models from Sage.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana trout spey fishing

New Trout Spey Stuff – Video

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When Mike McCune and Whitney Gould were here in April on their annual Montana spey fishing tour, I had the opportunity to spend a couple of days fishing with Mike and talking about the new “Trout Spey” gear he has been working on with Sage and Rio. Yes, little rods and little lines. But with lots of power. Watch first, then ask questions.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/129327269″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Having never fished with Mike or Whitney, I quickly learned that fishing for trout isn’t something they do to earn a few bucks teaching spey classes outside the PNW. They really enjoy it, and have been tinkering with ultra-lightweight spey rods for the last 5 years.

Mike had the final versions of some new 11′ 2 & 3 (200-250r) weight spey rods he has been working on with Sage for the last few years. For lines he was throwing final prototypes of the new RIO “Trout Skagit?” lines. Skagit heads 11 feet in length. Yes, 11 feet.

While I’ve been known to badmouth “ultra-light” spey rigs in the past (you don’t need them for the Missouri!), I must admit that Mike/Sage/Rio have nailed it with these. Distance is excellent. Wind performance nearly equal a 6 weight rod. The ability to throw larger flies – which Mike refers to as “payload” – is very, very good. Way past the size of flies that I personally use for trout fishing. And most Steelhead fishing.

Add to that extremely light in the hand and effortless to cast. In fact too much effort will be self-destructive.

The 11′ RIO Skagit head is shorter than you might think is possible. But with a “hands down” casual stroke it launches. You can use 10′ MOW tips on it, or cut your own a bit shorter. One huge advantage of these short tips is that you can strip line in a traditional streamer fishing style without running into junction knots and thick heads.

We will save the rest for the official release this summer.

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Just Add Vise Tungsten Dart

Just Add Vise Tungsten Dart

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Today on the Headhunters Blog we have the Bloom’s Tungsten Dart.

A great pattern for the Missouri River May, June, July, August…you get the point.

Tie this on and get after it. We got them in stock for a cup full of flies in many sizes and we also have the Tung Dart Just Add Vise Kit. Order one up on the online store or stop in and take a few home with you.

Just Add Vise Tungsten Dart

Tungsten Dart from Headhunters Fly Shop on Vimeo.

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May Sub-Surface PMD Selection for Montana’s Missouri River

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Many of our primary bugs are having a hey day subsurface as we move to ward the dry fly bonanza month of June.

BWO’s, PMD’s, a couple varieties of caddis and probably some Yellow Sally’s are dancing the day, and the night away as they bulk up for the summer ahead.

Morphing like mad!

Yesterday the dry fly bite in the afternoon really lit up. But, that does not happen everyday.

When it does not, or if  you prefer the nymphing game, try some of these patterns to spice up your life.

P1030655
PMD Nymphs available at Headhunters

Row 1: Hogan’s S&M Nymph, Tungsten Reckoner, Tungsten Split Case, Doc’s PMD, Mason’s Peep Show Light, Egan’s Frenchie, Tungsten Redemption PMD, BH Bubbleback PMD, BH Poxyback PMD, Ross’s UV2 Glitter Nymph, BH CDC Case PMD Emerger, Ross’s UV2 Glitter Soft Hackle, Soft Hackle PMD, Harrop’s Captive Dun PMD

Row 2: Harrop’s Soft Hackle Bead Thorax, Doc’s Summer Bug, Hare Copper PT, Craven’s JuJu PMD, Tungsten Duck Collar, Trask’s Little Devil, Soft Hackle Orange, Micromay Brown, Tungsten Death Metal, Military May, Little Green Machine, JuJu Emerger, Tungsten Magic Fly, Hogan’s Little Amigo, Epoxy Back PMD, UV2 Rocky Mt. Merger PMD

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Headhunters T's for all

Headhunters T’s for all

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]This is one of the best sellers here in Craig at Headhunters Fly Shop.

These T’s fly out the door. So this year we made them in sizes for men, women, and children.

Andrea Larko art is awful fun and this art designed for us here at the Mothership in Craig is no different.

We have the children’s T’s for those who need to bring something home for the wife, and the kids. Not all fly shops stock kids and women’s clothing stating that that is not the focus of their business. We disagree. We do here in Craig. Why not? We put the customer first.

Enjoy these fun T’s and many more here at Headhunters in Craig.

See you this weekend for a fantastic fishing experience with caddis, March Browns, and Baetis filling your plate![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][us_grid orderby=”title” order=”asc” ids=”11735,11716,11704″ post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Missouri River March Brown Patterns

Missouri River March Brown Nymphs

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March Browns are here in force.

Well, sort of. This is a smaller hatch for us and not one you can plan your day around. Can you flirt with them for a portion of the day?

Oh, yes indeed.

Find the fish and find the bug and cast the fly. We like the Adams, or some March Brown patterns for the dry fly stuff here at Headhunters but the nymphs can get you in the game all day long.

What would we suggest?

How about these Missouri River March Brown Nymphs above.

Missouri River March Brown Nymphs

  • Top Row: Tungsten Pheasant Tail, Poxyback March Brown, B.H. March Brown Nymph, B.H. Birds Nest, Quasimoto Pheasant Tail, Hare & Copper Pheasant Tail, Peep Show Dark
  • Bottom Row: Stripper Quill, Tungsten Reckoner, Hola Back Girl Brown, S&M Nymph Brown, Lightning Bug Purple, Tung Death Metal, Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear
Fishing Report coming later today for the week ahead. Hey you…it is about ready to come un-corked. For all of you who like to get the heads up and want us to call when the shit gets really good. You may want to think about a day or two off work in the near future. Are there fish rising everywhere all day long? NO. But having said that I think the opportunities for greatness exist around every corner and in nearly every brown trout lie…
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