Proof that for all our collective efforts we’ve advanced fly fishing not at all

I told him, “… you’re not to go into a fly shop without me holding your hand, you’re simply too vulnerable. You need absolutely everything – but you need a Sensei to prioritize purchases, so you don’t blow a couple paychecks on stuff you wad into a vest, yet lack the vest to fill …”

He nods with great sincerity, and we part company …

Later I’m the recipient of an email:

“The budget fisherman went by big 5 on the way home and saw this for 4.99 and had to buy it. You can’t go wrong with FAMOUS patterns. They did not have a holder. Would you have a fly box your willing to sell? Talked to wife and if you are still up for tomorrow I can meet you at work at 3:30 and follow you home. “

Big5_Famous2

I recognize the McGinty, the Parmachene Belle, White Miller, Black Gnat, Yellow Sally, and a host of patterns from the 1950’s, but where is there any evidence of the last seventy years of fly fishing, and why is that so?

Dear Eager-Beaver,

The label says, “Great for every game fish”, but you’re interested in Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, which aren’t game fish. Anything in still water is considered by the fly fishing industry to be a ‘gamey-fish’ – something you toe into the underbrush while no one is looking.

I’ll hook you up with some bass flies this evening, and a fly box, and anything else I’ve got two of …

Stop spending money.

Sensei

3 thoughts on “Proof that for all our collective efforts we’ve advanced fly fishing not at all”

  1. Igneous Rock

    This is the single most productive purchase a novice fly fisher can make. Waving one of these women’s earings in front of a professional guide or tyer will produce a 1/2 dozen of the finest flys in creation free! I’ve used this ploy on my brother for years and it’s like waving a flag in front of a bull. “I’ll be God damned if he’s seen fishin that crap around me!” Here…try these.

  2. craig

    i hadn’t seen that pack of flies in a long while.

    back in the distant past i tied a mcginty on to a zebco33 with a bobber and watched my baby boy catch bass and bluegill for a couple of hours before a turtle broke him off.

    considering he did it in the heart of bass tournamnt country was quite entertaining.

  3. The Busy Bee Underground

    I’m coming out of the closet and admitting the McGinty made for one of the best days of lake fishing I’ve ever enjoyed — right up until I broke it off on a hookset.

    I’d buy the pack of McGinty’s….

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