We are proud to announce the introduction of a new section of our web site - Fly Fishing Basics with FFF- Master Certified Instructor, Carl Warmouth. The Warmouth has fished virtually all over the world and has instructed 100's in the fine art of the long rod (of which he is truly a Master).

LESSON ONE - Line Management

Since we do not use the reel for line management except when fighting a fish, it is important to keep loose fly line neat and orderly. If this is not done and a big fish is hooked, knots may form in the fly line and become fouled in the guides. In the photo above, Master Warmouth demonstrates how to remove knots while fighting a big fish. Note the control of the rod when both hands are needed to pick-out the massive snarl. Some anglers might choose to put the rod under their arm, but not someone to whom the fly rod is so near and dear.

We tried to interview the Master after the photo shoot for more details on his technique, but unfortunately the fish had made a hard run late in the knot-unfurling and Master Warmouth's voice was so high and squeaky we could not understand him.

A side note here on the limits of photos - no photos or explanations can capture the true experience of being on the water with a Master. For example, not shown in the picture above is the Warmouth's star pupil, Jeff Ragland. Jeff has managed to acquire a backlash in his line that would rival any baitcaster ever. Jeff probably needs several more years under the Master's tutelage as he was unable to unsnarl his line (even as fish busted all around the boat). We wound up dropping the reel and mass of snarled line into a large baggie (heavy-duty freezer-style). Guide Kent Edmonds (not shown as he is curled in the floor of the boat weeping uncontrollably, as stripers bust bait all around the boat) always carries the large baggies for just these occurrences when fishing with the Master.

*******  Coming next month *******

 Casting in the Wind with Heavy Sink-Tip Lines 

Techniques galore and a special photo shoot -

see the Warmouth's butt-piercing and more

(*mature audiences only)