spey

Spey Resource – Deneki Outdoors

by

[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]

Spey Clinic Bumped

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Unfortunately, the weather is forcing us to move this weekends spey clinic to the following weekend, Jan. 16th, 2015. The forecast is for a high temperature around 12 and a low that morning of around 7 degrees. We have also had quite a bit of floating ice on the upper river the last 2 weeks, and if that persists with the cold weather it would make casting & swinging impossible.

We have actually held a clinic or two in these conditions,and while we all had fun for an hour or two, it was more or less a waste of time. Guides freeze up in less than three casts, hands are numb making it impossible to feel & secure your shooting line, and getting in and out of the water on the shelf ice can be dangerous.

It also looks like there will be some snow on Friday night/ Saturday morning and we don’t want anyone driving to Craig in icy conditions.

The clinic will be held the following weekend – Saturday Jan. 16th – at the same time and place. Plan on being at Headhunters by 8:30-45. Classroom presentation will start at 9am.

You will automatically be added to the Jan. 16th class, so if you can’t make it on that date, please contact Ben or Sara and let them know (1-877-379-3597 or 406-235-3447). They will get you into one of our other clinics in Feb. or March.

This clinic is full with a waiting list, so please don’t call to try and add your name.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

You’ll Also Need a Reel…

by

[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.

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

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?

 

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15447″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct%2Forvis-battenkill-spey-reel%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

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?

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][us_image image=”15431″][vc_btn title=”BUY” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstaging.headhuntersflyshop.com%2Fwp%2Fproduct-category%2Ffly-reels%2Fabel-reels%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Welcome to the Missouri River December

Welcome to the Missouri River December

by

December 1st. All is well. Cold as it should be.

A common winter question at the shop is “Do you really fish during the winter? When the weather is like this? Really?

Oh yeah. And we are not the only ones. Lots of local and regional anglers visit the Missouri River during the off season. Great Falls and Helena residents including Butte, Bozeman, Whitefish, and even Spokane and Billings don’t blink about heading over for a day, or three.

A short drive for most. A large reward for all. As I stated yesterday we are into one of our slowest periods of the year. Not fishing wise. Although it is not red hot. More like Snow, White, Hot.

Missouri River December Weather

Welcome to the Missouri River DecemberCold. Mostly cold and somewhat windy. When the sun is high is does not mean slower fishing. But, but the fish do not mind the lower grayer skies either. I prefer the latter. It just feels fishier when the clouds obscure the sun.

Keep in mind while the mercury reads 24F, the high and bright sun will make it feel a balmy 37F.

The wind is the variable that really, truly, nobody is a fan of. If is blowing the fishing conditions can be questionable. Always give us a call before you head out for the current conditions in Craig.

Average daily December high temperature is 35F with the low being 15F.  Average snowfall is 9 inches with the average precipitation coming in at 0.55 inches.

The upshot is cold weather and tough fishing conditions. Or for those who like the solace of the river in December…bring it.

Missouri River December (Non)Hatches

Kind of none. Some BWO’s around and some midges. More like the pink nymph fly hatch. Or a streamer Kreelex hatch. That is about it. Very little dry fly action. So, we go to the bobber and the Trout Spey Rod or a slowly stripped streamer on a single handed rod.

Welcome to Missouri River December
Lots of winter ahead of us!

So what do I do? Find that soft winter water. Most of the anglers that arrive at the shop in the morning get the same explanation about water types. We constantly hear bad reports from those trying to play the summer game. Meaning that they are fishing in good looking hopper type water. The faster, sexy type of water. Stay away from that stuff in the winter. It is no good. There are not any fish in that ind of water. The water temps are in the Hi 30’s for the remainder of the month and the fish do not hang out there. Period. So if you want some good winter nymphing action find the slow and soggy water.

It is more a question of where. That is what we are getting at here. Where. The slow pond like water is the right stuff. Where you would not fish in the spring, summer, or fall. The slower inside bends with some structure. Or no structure. Look for the most boring water you can find and fish it.

Trout Spey is King

We love to throw the 2 handed rod in the winter months. With the advent of smaller trout size spey/switch rods the Missouri River is a fantastic resource to learn a new game. And we have them all. We are the education location for all things trout spey. With well more than a dozen demo trout spey rods in stock we are Montana’s Trout Spey destination. Demo lines at Headhunters as well with the entire range of Skagit and Scandi lines.

The Missouri River has a ton of killer swing runs at your disposal. You will see fellers out there practicing, fishing, swinging. Landing fish too. Depending on the water depth and speed you can either attach a lightly weighted pattern, a  heavily weighted pattern, or an unweighted fly to the end of your switch rod. The fish can be anywhere on the swing, or twitch, or jig. Fish it, change it, strip it, swing it.

Craig Trout Camp Open All Year!

Open all year long!
Open all year long!

Craig Trout Camp is open all year long. We never close the most popular properties on the Missouri River The good news is the discounted off season price. Rainbow and Brown Cabins rent for $125/night and the Craig House starts at $250/night. Why stay anywhere else? Come out for the weekend. Fish, stay, relax.

Missouri River Off Season is Killer!

Lots of reasons to fish the off season. Low population of anglers. That is all I need to hear. But some like to catch a few trout for their troubles. No problem there either. Good fishing for those over-sized Rainbows. Stop in any time for answers, questions, coffee, a ton of BS, Christmas gifts, sale times, conversations…any and all.

Headhunters Fly Shop is your only daily fly shop on the Missouri River. We are here for you, the all seasons angler. And we love December!

 

 

 

 

Missouri River Trout Spey Report 11.23.15

Missouri River Trout Spey Report 11.23.15

by

Missouri River Trout Spey Report 11.23.15

It’s been pretty good.

The number of good runs for winter fishing here on the Missouri River is what makes us feel fortunate to be here during the several cold and snowy months.

Great runs for winter swinging. The Missouri is full of them. A a fun time to be here because you really get your choice of them. Left and right banks provide you so much water that you will not get tired of this river. We never tire of the MO.

But we are trapped here. All winter long. Hence the two handed rod. An effective tool.

While dreaming of warmer climates we simply return to the Mother Missouri.

The fish are moving into the winter trout lies. Slower and lower. Softer and shallower too. The boring water. They are moving that way.

The fish in this last week had changed location from the previous week. 2 weeks ago the fish would get on the bite early in the swing. In the faster riffle water. And they would take it hard.

I saw less of that behavior this last week. The fish have been eating it for me in the latter half of the swing. Towards the bottom. On the dangle. Twitching it or short strips enticed a few fish to eat.

The twitch or jig was working well. Most of the fish ate it not on the swing, but when I was imparting action to the streamer. Or just after the strip on the pause. But nevertheless becoming involved with your drift is important.

A local fish philosopher once said…

You can either let it happen, or make it happen.

Choose the latter.

The great thing about fishing is that you get to choose how you do it. Every angler is different and has different ideas of how to get that damn trout to bite the hook. You can dictate your destiny. You getta choose the outcome. You get a seat at the spey retrieval table. Check out the video by Scumliner Media McCune Retrieval Techniques blog that precedes this post for more on this topic.

Skagit or Scandi? Flies too.

Flies for the swinger the past couple weeks include some of the streamer all-stars for all river systems. Including the Missouri River in that equation the flies we love include smaller lighter buggers. Those tossing a Skagit line have been using an Intermediate tip or a MOW tip with an un-weighted bugger. Black and olive have been the favorites.

Missouri River Trout Spey Report 11.23.15
Montana’s best Trout Spey selection here in Craig Montana @ Headhunters Fly Shop and Guide Service

Have not heard of Skagit fellers adding the bigger deeper tips. But they may be. It is so skinny most everywhere that many Skagit anglers are using dry tips as well. Or the lighter set for the water level of 3300 cfs. No weeds to contend with. The not as weedy season has rewarded us with a not so weedy fall and early winter.

Those throwing the sleek Scandi lines have been using the beaded Bugger. Lighter floating tips encourage a bit of weight in the pattern.

Clousers, buggers, R2R, a couple flavors of the ever popular Kreelex, leeches of all kinds, sculpin patters, the slender Marabou Clousers, Skiddish Smolts in trad., brown, and olive..and more.

Trout Spey Rod & Line DEMO’s. Best Trout Spey selection in Montana.

Remember that Headhunters has demo spey lines for you to try before you buy. Also remember that we stock all things Skagit starting @ RIO Skagit Trout Max 200gr and OPST Skagit 175 gr. on up to the 6, 7 and 8weight spey rods. We have the Scandi selections that nobody else has in Montana. We have the lighter spey  and switch lines from Airflo, RIO, OPST, and SA.

Backing, running lines of all types, leaders and tippets too. We are the Trout Spey HQ in Montana.

Rods from Orvis, SAGE, Echo, and more here available for DEMO daily.

November and December ahead…

We are just beginning our Swing Season. Pretty good so far. Much better than the not-so-great fall dry fly bite. The stripping streamer bite was hit and miss too. So as we move out of the unbelievable late fall/early winter nymph mania we are encouraged the the November swinging success stories.

December is traditionally a great Trout Spey month. Our clinics get under way, the river is devoid of any sane anglers, and the fish seem to be amenable to the twitchy trout swinging syndrome.

Come by and see us if you are interested, have any questions, want to sniff around a shop that digs the winter action, are lonely, need a pick me up, or got lost coming home from Bozeman and need to spend a long weekend in Craig MT.

The epicenter of winter angling in Montana. 

 

 

 

Womens Spey Clinic

Women’s Spey Clinic

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headhunters manager Sara Roholt and guide Beth Hood held our first women’s spey clinic this weekend. As expected from these two, the clinic was a success and all who attended learned a thing or two about spey casting, rigging and equipment from these 2 spey-junkies.

Sara and Beth are on the water all winter throwing their spey rods, so this isn’t a social experience. These gals know what they’re talking about.

Former Headhunters staffer and Bozeman photographer Jess McGlothlin was also in attendance, and provided these great photos. click to enlarge[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”15200″ onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

ON WATER

Saturday was on the cool side, and excessively windy. The girls chosen spot (at Ben McNinch and Nick Stipech’s pad) proved to be the least windy spot on the river. An excellent choice.

Sara and Beth followed our standard clinic protocol, starting with an hour-plus of classroom explaining the gear and terminology, followed by on water casting instruction. Sara ran the in-classroom session, as her knowledge of equipment proved invaluable. Beth headed up the on-water casting portion, and worked on fundamentals starting with the final launch stroke.

Sara thought that most attendees were interested in applying spey techniques to local trout fishing in Montana, as opposed to future Steelhead trips. We think that’s great. Get out there and swing up some Montana natives!

“It’s exciting to watch a group of women of varying skill levels come together to learn something new! Sara and Beth were excellent teachers, and it’s hard to imagine a better setting for the new Montana Spey angler to put their new skills to use.” – Jess McGlothlin

[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_grid columns=”2″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”15201,15202″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_600_600_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”2″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

EQUIPMENT FEEDBACK

Because we receive a lot of feedback about gear at our clinics, we were looking forward to a women’s only perspective. Sara’s compiled feedback was that the group really enjoyed the Orvis Clearwater Spey (first) and the Sage Method (second). Not as popular were the Echo Glass Spey/Switch and new Redington Chromer. We’re receiving a bunch of Echo TR’s this week, and I would expect them to be as popular as the Orvis.

Very interesting. The Clearwater (med) and Method (fast) are two completely different rod actions, but two of our favorite. No surprises there. The Echo Glass Spey and Switch rods are shop and customer favorites, but we have always heard negative comments from the ladies. We attribute this to the extra weight of these fiberglass rods. Men seem not to notice, but women most definitely do. The new Redington Chromer has received “meh” reviews from our staff, and from this group apparently.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_grid columns=”2″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”15204,15205″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_600_600_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”2″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

SKAGIT vs SCANDI

The group used both Skagit and Scandi lines, and Skagit prevailed as the easiest and most enjoyable. We all know that Skagit lines are a bit easier to throw. The ladies group would also agree more fun to throw. They definitely do more of the work for you, which is nice.

Sara, Beth and Headhunters also provided some warm soup, veggie trays, chardonnay and I heard there was some Bailey’s floating around. All appreciated from the sounds of it. It was a little windy and cool Saturday.

MORE CLINICS?

Will we hold more ladies Spey Clinics? Up to Sara and Beth, but I would expect that we will. If you’re interested I suggest harassing Sara at the shop.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana spey fishing

Two-Handed Report

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]above: Mark Raisler and Beth Hood readying the 2hand arsenal for a day on the Mo. FINALLY We’re finally getting the right conditions for both swing and boat streamer fishing to produce some fish. It’s been OK for the last month, but not great. Lots of little flies in skinny water. Slow retrieves. Not what most … Read more

Montana Guided Spey Trips

Guided Spey Trips

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Requests for guided two-handed Spey fishing trips on the Missouri River have been on the increase. We’ve actually done some the past few seasons, but have not formally made it an official part of our guided trip packages. Until now.

Beginning November 15th and running through March 15th, Headhunters will be offering Montana Troutspey Trips on the Missouri River. These trips are designed for both experienced and rookie two-handed casters, as our focus will be on catching fish.

(If you want to spend hours talking about shooting head theory and the merits of touch-and-go vs. sustained-anchor, we recommend that you attend our free Spey Casting clinics, a much better forum for discussion)

COST

Our winter Spey Trips will run you $400, and includes all equipment, and a light lunch. Expect trips to run about 6 hours. If you already have the proper gear (anything up to a #7), we recommend you bring that. We will be offering an unconditional refund for weather cancellations, so don’t worry about the “too cold” factor.

Our “regular” winter floats trips will also be $400, so don’t feel like you’re locked into Spey fishing.

If you want to know when the best time to come is, we typically experience our very best two-handed swinging during November, December and early January. And I mean very, very good fishing.

We do have lodging available as well in the winter.

ADVICE

A little advice here. I’m seeing quite a few anglers trying to turn this into a version of Steelhead fishing. They are throwing 8 weights with big sink tips and giant blue and purple intruders right out a winter Steelhead box.

This is not Steelhead Fishing, and we are not trying to make it that. If you want to catch some fish, listen to us and your guide. You need to impart some action to the fly. You should be mending downstream. You need to use flies that represent something trout eat. You need to fish the right water.

If you’re obsessed with Steelhead, go Steelheading (or check out Instagram, you can live it virtually there).

These trips are about learning how to use a two-handed rod to pursue trout, especially in the off season. Enjoy that.

Give us a call if you’re interested in booking a Troutspey trip this fall/winter.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana Trout Spey Fishing

Trout Spey Line Selection

by

[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]

Whitney Gould Spey Instruction

Red Shed Spey Gathering

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]above: Whitney Gould started off the morning instructional sessions. I headed over to the Clearwater River last weekend for the annual Red Shed Spey Gathering (aka Speyclave), a celebration of spey casting and Steelhead fly fishing that incuded product demo’s and spey casting instruction from many of the West’s best spey casting instructors. This is … Read more

Montana Troutspey, spey fly fishing

I guess we’re starting Troutspey a little early…

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It seems like everyone is Jonesing to Spey. We still have several weeks of great dry fly and streamer action left! You’ll still be in shirt sleeves 6 weeks from now! But anglers are coming by, asking for the “swing” report, talking new gear and debating trout vs. birds vs. a quick run over to the Clearwater. So here we go…

SAGE ONE TROUTSPEY IN STOCK

The eagerly awaited for Sage ONE Troutspey is now in stock at Headhunters. Took long enough. A few are already spoken for, and a couple will immediately go into the demo fleet so you can take them out and see what all the fuss is about. Lots of folks coming by the shop and asking about these new ultra-light spey rods. Try or buy, you will like them either way.

We do have them on our online store, so if you don’t want to risk missing out on one, press “Buy”! If you hate it, we will work something out to get you into the right rod, or make a partial refund. I expect these to go relatively quickly, and I’m not sure what the backstroke will be like at Sage.

Troutspey Day #1

Spent Sunday on the river with local trout bum John Heckert, swinging the two-hander down around Cascade. John has been teetering on the edge of the Spey Canyon for a while. He fell in at our Labor Day sale when Ninch and Sara hooked him up with a used demo Echo Glass Spey rod. He does a lot of wade streamer fishing, so it only made sense.

This was John’s first time with a spey rod. We had an excellent instructional day, hitting both banks multiple times and adjusting our casts to the ever changing breeze. Perfect day to be out on the water.

The fishing? Meh. But we did tangle with a few fish. My first spey trout of the fall, and that’s nice. Still a bit early, and the lure of rising fish tempted us to break out the single handers a few times. If you do go, i would go really early and hit some of the long beaches. Swing it way in shallow until the sun hits the water. When there are lots of bugs available, the fish will ignore your swung fly.

Spending the day watching John adapt to a new style reminded me what a great rod the Echo Glass Spy & Switch series is. Really forgiving, but with tons of power and speed if you want it. The only negative that we’ve ever heard regard the weight in your hand. Not terrible, but definitely heavier than graphite.

Still too early

Yes, like I said it’s still bit early and I didn’t really expect the swinging to be phenomenal. But in a month or so, things will relay start to turn on. By Thanksgiving we will be hitting the peak of swing season. Hold your horses! You’ll have to deal with rising fish and incredible nymph for a while yet.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”14438″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]John Heckert concentrating during his first day with a spey rod. You can tell John is concentrating because he has his tongue out. Like this guy…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14439″ size=”medium” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”14423″][us_grid post_type=”ids” no_items_message=”” columns=”4″ items_layout=”shop_trendy” items_gap=”” ids=”8949″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Winter Spey Clinic Dates

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We’ve set the dates for the 2015/16 Spey Clinics at Headhunters. As usual, these dates are somewhat tentative, as we occasionally move them due to weather. But we make every attempt to keep those dates solid. We get quite a few attendees from out of the area who make plans far in advance.

These clinics are open to students of all skill levels, but are generally geared towards beginning spey casters. We do have more advanced students attend, and can help decipher any hitches you may have in your cast.

SPEY CLINIC DATES

DEC 5, 2015

JAN 9, 2016

FEB 6, 2016

MAR 5, 2016

The routine will be pretty similar. Meet at the Craig House behind Headhunters for coffee, pastries and a 1-2 hour presentation/Q&A session about equipment, casting and fishing techniques.

After that, we head to our private spot right on the river in Craig. You will see a short presentation on casting, then break up and work on spey casts with our instructors. Teacher to student ratio is typically 4:1.

Post class often involves some equipment/line discussions back at Headhunters. We may also enjoy an adult beverage from the YETI.

Classes will again be limited to 20 students. We turn away plenty of people for each class, so you are limited to 1 clinic per season. Also, if you sign up and cannot make it, please let us know so we can open up your spot to those on the waiting list.

Remember that all equipment is provided, but we encourage you to bring your own rod. If you think you may have the wrong line on it, we have plenty of demo lines for you to try. We will help you get it dialed up.

COST: FREE

Remember, we do these clinics for free! All of our instructors volunteer their time because they love swinging a two-hander.

WHAT YOU NEED

Bring warm weather gear, including gloves, hats and pocket hand-warmers. Bring your own two-handed equipment, but you can still try some of our gear if you wish. It is not unusual for a few of the Manufacturer reps to show up with more rods (and instruction) as well.

HOW TO SIGN UP

Call the shop and sign up. That’s it![/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

NEW! WOMENS CLINIC

We will be kicking off the 2015-16 season with a small Women’s clinic with Spey instructors Beth Hood and Sara Roholt. The date is November 14th, and class space is limited to 6-8. No, women do not need to be taught differently than men. This is simply a chance for the gals to get together and learn about spey casting in a smaller, relaxed setting with two excellent two-handed anglers.

We are still working out the details on this class. Call Sara at the shop with any questions.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”14404″][vc_column_text]SARA ROHOLT[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][us_image image=”14403″][vc_column_text]BETH HOOD[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]

McCUNE/GOULD CLINIC

Spey Guru’s Mike McCune and Whitney Gould will be making their annual tour of Montana next spring, and will be bringing their casting clinics to Craig and Headhunters once again. Dates have not been firmed up yet, but expect them to be held sometime in April.

If you can’t wait to see Mike & Whitney until then, contact them through Whitney Gould Fly Fishing and book a trip on the Grande Ronde this fall, or OR/CA this winter.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14401″ onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Whitney Gould & Mike McCune on the Blackfoot River.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]

WOMEN’S SPEY CLINIC

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headhunters Spey Casting instructors Sara Roholt and Beth Hood will be holding their first Women’s Spey Clinic this fall on November 14. Class size will be limited to 6-8 anglers. Rods will be provided and this class will be geared towards beginning spey casters and those who have never tried it.

Sara and Beth fish the Missouri River with two handers all winter and are experts when it comes to finding and catching fish on the Missouri River with spey rods. They both have experience fly fishing for Steelhead as well.

If you’re interested in attending this clinic, call Sara at Headhunters 1-877-379-3597 or 406-235-3447.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”14403″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Troutspey Around the Corner

by

[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]

Montana trout spey fishing

New Trout Spey Stuff – Video

by

[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.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Ryan McCourtney Headhunters

Back to Spey

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ok, I did a bobber report the other day. I hope you liked it, and that it helped you find success on the Missouri. If so, you should know that I made it all up. I only swing a two hander this time of year. I’m a swinger.

Back to Spey. Spent yesterday on the lower river with Capt. Ryan McCourtney. Swinging the long rod with Mr. Kreelex and Mr. Mozuri. Very good fishing, though Capt. McCourtney is still at the uncomfortable level with the two-hander. He can do it fine. He’s just used to being real good.

Put him on the front of a Maverick, or stalking a backcountry stream in New Zealand and he’s so at home he’ll probably take a nap. But he’s still getting the swing of things spey.

Kind of like watching me throw at a Tarpon…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”10023″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]But it’s just fishing. And Ryan is an excellent fisherman. In fact he’s not really that good at anything else. Except Golf. And watching the golf channel.

And we found some excellent fishing on the lower river, which is no guarantee this time of year. A month ago, the area we fished would have been a better venue for the NHL Winter Classic than fishing.

But the crazy warm weather has melted all of the ice around Cascade, and we found a couple of runs that help good numbers of fish. They were all about the streamer, and deep presentations were not neccessary.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”10021″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]Fishing with Ryan was a good reminder for me about how you need to read water with the spey rod. Ryan knows this section of river way better than I, but is used to conditions from April thru November.

This time of year – no matter where you fish – you need to find those long beaches with a good seam. When we hit those spots we had success. Even if they weren’t the most productive spots during the rest of the year.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”10022″ size=”full” link=””][vc_column_text]This holds true of the entire river. If you’re on the swing, you need to fish those long, shallow insides. I think that it is imperative that there is some deep and slow holding water somewhere near. This is where you find fish that are the most receptive to the swung/twitched streamer.

Lot’s of Brown Trout for us today, confirming the FWP numbers about Brown’s on the lower river.

Midp-depth presentations were the best. I was using the new RIO Light Scandi Versi-leader in a 7 ft. 5ips version, while Ryan was throwing the Scandi VersiTip with an intermediate tip. Didn’t really take more.

Looking forward to a big weekend on the river, with the forecast in the 60’s on Saturday of this Holiday weekend. See you at the shop, with your spey rod, I hope. If you need a nymph report, let me know. I’ll give you a good one…[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”10019″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana trout spey

Trout Spey

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

HAVE WE CROSSED A LINE?

We wrapped up Spey clinic #3 this weekend, with 2 to go. It was a great group and the weather was fantastic. A SE wind forced the class to stick to their left shoulder for most of the day, so the double spey took center stage. By the end, we were working on off-shoulder snap T’s as well. There was some skill in the latest group, with several casters looking to fine-tune things, as well as try new lines on existing sticks.

We also had a new caster with a long-belly rig in the mix. I haven’t taught a new two-handed caster with a long-belly line in at least 15 years. In every class, I emphasize how much easier it is to learn with Skagit and Scandi shooting heads than with long-belly lines. This was confirmed to me in a big way this Sat. It felt like throwing sewing thread compared to a “head”. Rod position and timing are critical at every step. Kudo’s to this and any angler who wants to learn like that. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

The most interesting event happened right as we walked down to the river. There was an angler swinging a two-handed rod right on our “private” casting run. Now, it’s not really private, but you’re probably not going to walk there from a public access. This angler gained access through a neighboring piece of property, and was someone who I have seen over the years.

There is no conflict story here. I went out and talked to this local Spey-afficianado, and he was totally cool about the class. Headed off to another spot anyhow. But the fact that he was there made realize that we may have crossed a threshold when it comes to swinging the Missouri River with two-handers in the winter months. We have been doing these clinics for 3 years now, and It’s never even crossed my mind that there would be someone swinging in our classroom.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][us_image image=”9716″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]If you fish the Missouri River in the winter, you’ve noticed this transformation. Lots of rigs with magnetic rod holders on the hood, and an array of switch and spey rods on them. And it’s been like that for a few years.

But recently, I’ve noticed another change. Anglers are not coming in the store asking about spey casting and fishing. They’re coming in asking for it. In other words, we’re hearing less “what kind of line do I need for my spey rod”, and more “I need a 390 grain Scandi compact head”.

In other words, we seem to have crossed from the world of curiosity to a world of competence. It’s becoming more about the fishing (flies, spots, sink tip rates, etc.), and less about the newess, trendiness and curiosity of Spey rods. This I like.

Yesterday I had a long talk with Spey Casting guru Mike McCune about our upcoming clinic with him and Whitney Gould. This same subject came up, and Mike agreed that a new legion of trout-swingers is forming. Guys that aren’t doing it a little when Steelhead opportunities don’t exist, but doing it all the time because they like it, and it’s effective.

Although Mike is known as a Steelhead guru and spends his time fishing on the West Coast’s best rivers, he’s really into the trout spey thing. Both he and Whitney love the Missouri River, and Mike told me that Brown Trout have moved way up his list of coolest fish on the planet, and sit right behind Winter Steelhead at #2.

I consider myself lucky to live on one of the better “trout spey” rivers in the West, and am stoked to see so many other anglers getting into it.

In a few more years we may find ourselves driving down to the Dam in January and saying, “hey look, a guy with a single hander and a bobber!”.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Ninch & John’s Fishing Report

by

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Ninch and I decided to try a little lower river action the other day, what with the unseasonably warm and balmy, shirtsleeve weather. The ice that locked up the lower river for a month is long gone. The wind was almost non-existent, and Pelican is the closest ramp to both of our houses. Our plan was to swing streamers all day on two-handers, which is always our plan this time of year.

Here’s my favorite shot of the day. The big wide open of the lower river.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”9472″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]The morning proved a little slower than we expected. While the air temps were plenty warm, the water may have still be on the cold side. We were also fishing some pretty quick water for this time of year. A few were nabbed regardless.

As they day progressed we really began to dial in the perfect depth and speed. Silty inside bends were very productive, as they hold the most midge pupa and nice easy currents for the trout to hang in. It usually takes us a little longer to figure it out when fishing “new” winter water. By “new” I mean that we know it well but not well in January. Sure, we know where they are from the Dam to Mid-Canon this time of year, but it’s more enjoyable to hit some new stuff and figure it out. Unless we get our hats handed to us…

Which did not happen this time. In fact, it was some of the best winter angling I’ve experienced on the lower river. In a couple of runs I watched Ben lean into fish 2 or 3 casts in a row. You never get them all when you’re swinging, but we got a good number of them, including some nice Browns.

Ninch spent the entire day swinging his Echo Glass two-hander, which is really turning out to be the perfect winter stick for the Missouri River. Ninch used the new RIO Scandi Versitip with floating, intermediate and type 5 tips. He caught most of his fish on the intermediate.

I fished my Sage METHOD 12’6″ #6, which has become my favorite Mo’ rod (and my favorite Steelhead rod). I stuck with the floater all day with a long leader and weighted fly. I probably should’ve switched to the intermediate – and more in some runs – but am just too lazy to stop fishing and change heads. A problem I’ve had for a long time.

Our best flies were the winter standards. Flashy baitfish. Ninch was throwing some kind of Kreelex variation of his own, and I was tossing the Mozuri Minnow. I am well aware that everyone wants to throw giant, fat-head, tandem (or more) Galloup-esque patterns. They have there place and time, but we find that over the course of a winter, the smaller Clouser style baitfish patterns far out-produce the bigger pushers. And when we have a big day, it’s always on the minnows. I tell people this all the time in the shop, but they don’t listen…

We were a little bummed when we started and realized it was going to be a good midge hatch. We had no single handers in the boat. We probably didn’t have any dries. Then a big ant fall came and we were really bummed. While I can’t say that I saw a whole lot of feeders, I did see a few. And we weren’t really fishing those kinds of spots. I suspect that there were some great dry fly opportunities around. Today may have been the day. Staying out until dark would have been the smart play if we were looking for heads. As it was, we were pretty much fished out around 3pm.

In the winter you can expect mostly Rainbow, and we had that. Cookie-cutter Missouri River fish mostly in that 16-17 inch range, but a few bigger. We were also rewarded with a half-dozen nice Browns. Very healthy and powerful. Jumpin’ all over the place. This makes me happy.

Here’s a few shots of a beautiful post Chinook winter day on the Missouri River.[/vc_column_text][us_grid type=”m” post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”9474,9473,9471,9470,9469,9468,9478,9480,9467″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” columns=”6″ items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Friday Foto

Friday Spey Foto

by

A nice shot on Friday.

Friday Foto.

Looking good this weekend of rSpey Casting the Missouri.

We are The Missouri River Spey Shop.

Demo’s galore, lines too.

Stop in and see us for any of your single or two handed equations.

See you on the river on this fantastically beautiful weekend.

Montana spey fishing

Spey Lines – Diagrams for the Confused

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It’s really not that complicated, but the massive amount of advice from all corners of Spey-dom seems to confuse those new to the style. Here’s a few diagrams from our Spey Clinic presentation. CLICK TO ENLARGE[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8630″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”8629″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]

SCANDI & SKAGIT

Both Scandi and Skagit lines are SHOOTING HEAD SYSTEMS. Shooting heads are not new, having been around since at least the 60’s? About as long as me. I started to look for the history of Shooting Heads on Google, but screw it. If you still read books, you can find information on the use of short shooting heads attached to mono for both Steelhead and Saltwater fishing years ago. Tha’ts what Amnesia was invented for. Not the butt section of your sleazy nymph rig.

BACK to the Spey stuff. Like I said, they are both shooting head systems, and in reality very similar. They have also been produced as “integrated” shooting heads (1 piece) but those days seem to be gone. You definitely want the versatility of a head system so you can quickly change the style or weight of your shooting head based on conditions, etc.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8628″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]

TRADITIONAL

And here’s a profile of a generic traditional – or ‘long belly” fly line. If you look closely, you’ll see that I have specified the length as 55′ – 85’. That usually means 55′ +/- (mid-belly) OR 85′ +- (long belly). Yes they come in different sizes, but those are pretty close to some typical lengths. Please don’t comment or email me that you own a 49′ line that I didn’t mention. I got it.

Missing is the Uber-traditional Double Taper. That what me and my buddies used when we started doing this. RIO did not yet exist, therefore modern spey lines did not yet exist.

If we were all still using DT lines on our spey rods, I doubt I would be talking about this. Much tougher to cast.

If you want to learn more about Spey Lines, come to our free Spey Clinics (next one Dec. 10), or stop by the shop and talk to Sara, Ninch, Mark or myself.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Switch it Up – Montana Spey Video

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Here’s the latest edit, featuring the crew that stays around Craig for the winter, fishing the Missouri River with two-handed or “spey” gear. The class at our last Spey Clinic got to see the world premier. Aren’t you jealous?

[/vc_column_text][us_separator text=”MONTANA SPEY VIDEO” show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/113932956″][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]The last time I filmed a lot of early winter two-handed fishing was when Sara and I shot “Down & Across“, 3 years ago I think? Seems like ages. It’s one of my most viewed videos at 27K views. It seems that you like watching some spey casting and fishing on the Missouri River.

We’ve definitely got a bigger crew doing it now, both in the shop and on the river in general. Many of the rigs I see around Craig in the winter months are not towing a boat, but do have a magnetic rod holder on the roof holding a variety of switch and spey rods. We like to see that. Anglers like Terry Armstrong from Great Falls are out there several days a week.

This video features everyones favorite “Spey Witch” Sara Roholt, along with Ben McNinch, guides Mark Raisler and Beth Hood, and new player Erich Bittman (TroutNV), who makes all of that cool laser engraved stuff at the shop. Pretty diverse group of two-handed anglers. Ben and Sara are Missouri River gurus, and do a bit of Steelhead fishing in the Columbia Basin. Mark is kind of a “trout-only” angler who loves to cast. Beth fishes here in the winter and you can typically find her on the Morice and Bulkley Rivers in the fall. Erich grew up in the Puget Sound and leans towards the Skagit side of things. He fishes all over the place, but moved to Craig full time a few years ago, and you will see him out swinging on the Mo (summer and winter). If you attend any of the Spey Claves in the PNW you will see him there as well.

Also a shout out to Simon Perkins and Orvis, who is a huge supporter of small fly fishing video production, including my own. Check out tons of fly fishing videos on THE TUG…

At any rate, the “Swing Season” has been great thus far, and we have a lot of nice weather in the forecast. Hopefully it will hold through the holidays so you can get out for a few days and enjoy the fishing. Int he meantime, enjoy some virtual fishing through Switch it Up – VIMEO LINK.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Montana Spey Clinic

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

CLINIC #1 IS IN THE BOOKS

An excellent turnout for our first two-handed Montana Spey clinic of the year. The weather was nice, and we had a little glitch with our google drive sign up list and overbooked it. That’s OK. The weather was great – the best we’ve had in over a year – and the crowd was enthusiastic. All 18 of them, and we had some from as far away as Denver at this clinic. Might be the new distance record.

I continue to tweak our presentation and subject matter. We’re starting to get into the pure Skagit stuff a bit more, at least for those who want to learn “sustained anchor” techniques, as well as try Skagit lines instead of our preferred Scandi rigs. Ninch is your man.

I was glad to see several anglers really taking advantage of the gear available to them. Switching lines, rods, and tips to see how they’re rod reacts differently. It’s often dramatic. You just got to try it. Several attendees brought their own rods, and I think at least one or two of them will be looking for a different line. It’s so important that you get the right line for your rod. Try it, try it, try it…. That’s why we have all of those lines and tips at the shop.

And oh yeah, you can try them anytime your in town. Just swing by.

The ECHO Glass Spey Rod got a good workout, and most – if not all – of those who tried it loved it. We will have several more for demo (and for sale) by the first of the year. This rods really shined for those new to the sport. And veterans just love the funky, slow powerful action.

Our next clinic is Jan. 10th, weather permitting. Sign up now at the shop.[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8550″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”8552″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][us_image image=”8551″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][vc_column_text]After the clinic, Dewey just couldn’t help getting out there and nabbing a few nice Missouri River trout![/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8553″ size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Silly Sunday Scenery

Silly Sunday Spey Scenery

by

Casting clinic yesterday at Headhunters Fly Shop and Guide Service.

Lots of folks casting, a ton of fellowship, and some fish were caught too.

Guide trips out today while the weather is cooperating. A few boats on the water using the only shuttle service in Craig. Quite a few wade anglers roaming the waters of the Missouri as well.

Enjoy fishing, napping, or watching football.

Or if you live here locally…all three.

Headhunters Winter Fly Fishing Events & 2015 Lodging Update

Headhunters Winter Fly Fishing Events & 2015 Lodging Update

by

Getting throughout the holidays can be difficult. Getting through the holidays without either fishing or planning for fishing can be really difficult.

We suggest either route to get you through. If you need a fix right now you can check out our Vimeo page by Scumliner Media here. No Balck Sabbath, just tons of fun fishing footage.

Back on track here as I got kinda excited about winter fishing. YEs, winter fishing. We fish all winter long here on the Missouri River. Some days are better than others. There are plenty of days that the weather is not all that conducive for angling. Just not all that comfortable on days when it is too much below 32F. At 0F no chance of us getting out there for too long…

Missouri River 2015 Lodging Update

Ninch wanted me to let you folks know that the lodging scenario for both June and July is fading away rapidly. Already the two most popular Missouri River months for fly fishing and consequently lodging June and July lodging is always tight. This year is now different.

The amount of advanced 2015 bookings for June and July is pretty overwhelming. Dry flies and long days with nice warm seasonable temperatures bring many anglers to Montana’s Missouri River for these favorable months.

The upshot is as follows. Ninch says,

“Book now or stay in Helena or Great Falls this June and July. And, might as well get your guide locked in too. It makes a lot of sense to get these reservations in the books before the New Year arrives setting your trip in stone for 2015. Don’t be left out yearning for your favorite Craig Trout Camp cabin or any one of our killer riverfront properties.”

 

Check out www.craiglodging.com for all the 2015 Missouri River Montana accommodations and lodging options.

Headhunters Winter Fly Fishing Events

  • Free Spey Casting Clinics begin this Saturday December 6th @ 9am. Call today and get in one of the last spots for this well attended and excellent worthwhile free 2 handed casting clinic. We’ll also show you how to fish with your Spey/Switch rod for Missouri River success. Not just a casting clinic, a fishing clinic too. Morning session is an indoor coffee and donut filled PowerPoint presentation by John Arnold. The noon to 3pm outdoor casting session with lead instructor John Arnold and supporting staff from Headhunters Fly Shop and friends including Sara Roholt, Ben McNinch, and Mark Raisler. We also have guest instructors and tackle reps at nearly every event. A great time to try out and find the Right Fly Line for your 2 handed spey rod. We have a mountain of lines that will be appropriate for your rod. Bring your gear and we can help! Demo rods on the river as well from SAGE, Echo, T & T, and Orvis.
  • Clinics Saturdays Dec 6th, January 10th, February 6th, and March 6th. Sign up for any of them today by calling Headhunters Fly Shop @ 406-235-3447
  • Craig Trout Camp Lodging begins @ $125 for the Brown and Rainbow Cabins. The Craig House is $150/2 and $50/head for every add’l guest.
  • Headhunters open daily @ 8am. Closed on Christmas Day. Open in the am Christmas Eve. Open New Years Day!
  • Get your Headhunters Gift Card at the shop or call and we will pop one in the mail for you, or your wife.
  • Headhunters famous Fly Tying Nights tentatively planned for Wednesday nights January 7 & 21, February 11 & 25, March 11. Usually starts @ 6pm and runs a couple hours. More on Fly Tying Night in America as we start the New Year.
  • Swing Season Guide Trips “Spey Only” for $300 through the end of the year.

These events and many more coming the remainder of 2014 and into the 2015 Missouri River Fly Fishing Season.  We are here int eh store daily to help in any way we can. See you this weekend at the Spey Clinic or just stepping out for a nit of wade fishing.

Montana spey fishing

Sunday Spey

by

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Ninch stretching it out on the upper river. He didn’t get one on this cast. It was the next.

The entire Headhunters crew has been out swinging with two-hands. A lot.

Try some swinging. You’ll like it. You can wear gloves. If you don’t twitch your fly, you can drink beer while you’re fishing. You’re uncle’s a swinger, right?[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”8198″ align=”center” size=”full” link=”” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]