So, what do you do when eleven FATC members want to join in fellowship and fishing AND the trout parks are closed? You SPREAD OUT – that is what you do. So as Steve Baker set up a trip to fish the Current River the following members, Jim Craig, Will Black, Scott Payne, Kenny Klimes, Vernon Preston, Bob Hassett, Bob Beckett, Mike Oldani, Jim Anzer, and Sid Aslin came up with three “teams” to fish the current river in three different areas. One team would fish below the cable, the next would fish Tan Vat and the third would fish the Baptist Camp area. The plan was then to meet for lunch and then switch locations for each “team.” This would give each fly fisher a chance at different waters and different tests of their skill.

Many fish were caught but each fly fisher’s catch totals were commensurate with their experience levels. Some nice browns and rainbows came in at the 15 – 17-inch range with many others the average size 10 – 12 inches. There was good success with a myriad of flies ( Hair of the Dog, the House of Payne, Perdigons, cerise worm, and some tiny dry flies) but one fly in particular stood out as better than the rest. A bead “fly” produced many fish. This fly, used often in Alaska when the trout are spawning, is just want it is – a bead. The bead is ‘pegged’ on the tippet about two inches from the hook (a larger than normal curved hook – size 8 -10). If you fish two flies let the bead be your point or bottom fly about 20 – 24 inches from your top fly. As the fish takes the bead it will reject it quickly but when you set the hook the fish will get hooked on the outside of the mouth.

The guys finished the day around 4 pm and all met up at Hicks BBQ for fellowship meal (and a lot of laughs!). A big welcome to Will Black our newest member. I think he had a fun time and will be back for many trips to come.

NOTE: Winter is coming and cold is coming. We must be thinking about hypothermia during this season of fly fishing. Falling in the water can be devastating if you are not prepared. DO NOT wear anything cotton – that goes for jeans under your waders or cotton socks. Wear good cold weather, ‘wicking’ type clothing – layer up. Do not forget to wear a good, tight wader belt. And most importantly, fish with a friend and not alone. Your friend could save your life!