Custom Fly Tying Archives - Morrett Fly Fishing

Mountain Time

I am not expecting to roll six anytime soon but, as a retired traveling salesman on Medicare, I am fully aware that I have more time in my rear view mirror than I do looking out the windshield. This reality has inspired me to be more in tune and intentional with each day that I am allowed to wander through God’s wonderful Creation while trying not to trample it along the way. This kind of thinking has grown me in my Faith and humbled me in my outlook on the world and how it was originally designed in the Beginning. For a fly fisherman looking for a piece of the origin story of streams and trout, I have found you have to go where the water comes from and the wild resident trout are protected and unmolested from the perils that lie below the last waterfall. Finding a pure, untouched by mankind piece of nature is the closest thing to Heaven one can hope to find in today’s world. For us here at Morrett Fly Fishing our search has led us to spend more time looking up and slowly wading upstream in the mountains of North Carolina. The path can get a little steep and slippery but we are enjoying the scenery as we go. We can only imagine what the view and the trout fishing will be like when we get to the place where the water bubbles out of the Mountain, the Beginning. I hope this kind of thinking is evident in how we conduct our lives and our fly fishing adventures.

The Long and Short of It All

I have not written a journal entry since moving to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and my partners have asked me to write something down before I forget. The main reason Morrett Fly Fishing exists is in the case I go first they wanted to have some stories available to tell around the campfire. Thank you Mel, Andy, and the entire team at CreativeFuse. I am not sure they are listening to all my ramblings in the first place. As a by-product of our endeavors, hopefully there is some content included that can help other fly fishermen out there on their own journey. Only through experiences I have been allowed to enjoy, with much more capable guides and fly tiers than myself, am I able to help others along the way. With the addition of over 650 new subscribers to our website over the last couple of months and the fact that an update is overdue, if you are so inclined, please catch up by reading some of our previous journal entries for some background. All that being said, please allow this new writing to bring all those interested up to date.

New Focus

The phrase “New Focus” aligns itself nicely for us here at Morrett Fly Fishing. I have spent most of my fly fishing endeavors focusing on chasing, and sometimes finding the big boys in the stream for the proverbial hero shot that can come with the pursuit. I certainly am not condemning that attitude but I believe it may have come at a cost. Now that I have reached a point where I have experienced many different streams as well as a fair amount of monsters that swim there, I believe I may have missed some things along the way. I am quite fortunate that my partners in crime have been diligent in regards to photos of the adventure and not just the treasure that I was seeking. I don’t know how many photos I have checked out after a trip only to discover many wonders all around me while fishing that I didn’t even notice while I was there. That is a shame. I am old enough to have logged many trips before the miracle of digital photography and I am sure many wonders are lost to me now. I am not feeling sorry for myself but rather I feel the need to pass a little wisdom on to the next generation of fly fisherman. It has been said that Trout live in the most beautiful of places, take the time to confirm this observation for yourself. Take a look around at Creation, thank the Creator, and pursue your quarry with the knowledge that the view you are enjoying will never look this way again. This is especially true when it comes to the Stream. Someone said a long time ago that you will never stand in the same river twice, it changes while you’re standing in the current.

Since moving to the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in SW North Carolina in August of 2023, I have been forced to slow down in regards to my personal fly fishing adventures as well as my guiding trips. Oh make no mistake, I consider this a Blessing and not a curse. The topography coupled with the structure of Mountain Streams in this area has forced me to take a seat on a nice boulder while watching my young partner Andy Baker break trail while identifying the easiest path to the next honey hole. I am amazed at how much I am able to observe while being forced to stop and just watch. I am now the one taking the photos of the adventure while Andy is watching for the trout to rise. I know my young partner has adopted this slower more intentional approach due to the fact he can do both while scouting on his own. Well done young man and thank you for finding some beautiful streams for us to explore together as well as share with other brothers and sisters of the angle. I trust you to pass this on to the generations that will follow.

Melanie, my wife and fishing partner of 40 years, and I have adapted nicely to Mountain Time since moving to the woods. We still receive inquiries from fly fisherman in the Southern Ohio area in regards to fly fishing opportunities which we consider humbling and cool at the same time. Maybe we did have some influence on the fly fishing community while guiding out of ReelFlyRod.com after all. My old guide partner, Matt Parker of Dayton Fly Fishing is my go to recommendation for all things fly fishing in the streams and rivers of SW Ohio. Parker has an old soul when it comes to trout fishing and it is without reservation that I recommend anglers of all levels to seek him out and he will make sure your trip is exactly the experience you imagine. It would be a poor compliment to the art of guiding if I said I could book a trip in my new world at this time. We are learning about the local streams in regards to the resident trout and the food that they eat as we speak. Oh, we are finding success as we wander and share with friends and family but not to the point where I would feel comfortable with all the responsibilities that come with guiding on these beautiful streams, for now. That being said, I was introduced to Davidson River Outfitters (DRO) over twenty five years ago and they were a huge influence on my Trout Bum lifestyle. I recommend all inquiries that I receive in regards to fly fishing in this part of the world to Kevin Howell, owner of DRO. The very talented guides that he employs can introduce fly fishermen of all levels to a fly fishing experience you will never forget. If you are lucky and he is available, Walker Parrott would be my go to guy.

As I have mentioned, when it comes to guiding, I am in training and I will know when I feel comfortable and confident enough to offer up my services to the many clients I have met along the path. Custom fly tying is another story. Less time on the water has allowed for more time on the vise. With this writing I am pleased to announce that this is the first week since the first of the year that I do not have a custom fly order in the works. That means our personal boxes are being tended to for the immediate future. I am old school and poo pooed this whole internet thing in regards to the exposure it can afford. I guess it is not a fad after all. Andy’s team has opened up so many different clients for Custom Trout Flies I have been amazed. When I started tying flies over 25 years ago I could have never imagined that our flies would be purchased and presented to Trout in around 22 different states. Based on the reports I have had from many happy clients, we have added to their experience and in more than a few situations, made their day. Mission accomplished! On a side note, no kidding, I just checked my phone and it looks like we have a new order in the works.

That is about as up to date as I can get everyone at this time. We will try to be more frequent with our journal than we have been over the last few months. Please look for real time info on our social platforms Facebook and Instagram. Old school guys and gals are welcome to give us a call at any time. If I do not answer, please leave a message and I will get back with you. Warning, I have been known to bend an ear if given the opportunity. Mountain Time allows for this kind of schedule. In closing, I feel compelled to share my daughter Sarah’s favorite Bible verse and what has become our inspiration on a daily basis. Psalm 121: I lift up my eyes to the Mountains, where does my hope come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

A Year in the Life: Part Two

I have waited until the first part of May to continue with my “Year in the Life” overview. At the time of this writing, we have had the luxury of a few months of adventures under our belts allowing for an evaluation of our previous forecasts (Part One) for the first part of 2023 in regards to Trout fishing on the Mad River. The positive results experienced thus far have certainly raised the level of my confidence in staying on the path of observing and following Nature’s repeating patterns.

As I mentioned in Part One, February and early March on the Mad can produce opportunities for the fly fisherman to present Early Black Stonefly patterns to rising Brown Trout. It has happened before and this year it happened again, in spades. We had three to four weeks of exceptional numbers of stoneflies in the air and in the foam line of the stream. Not only were we excited about the fishing opportunities enjoyed with the large number of bugs that showed up, the stoneflies also represent a kind of canary in the coal mine scenario. I have come to know that stoneflies require high quality water conditions in order to thrive. The more than usual numbers of these little black beauties speaks to the quality of the Mad in early 2023. This should bode well for the possibility of upcoming Mayfly hatches, theoretically.

The month of April in SW Ohio for the dry fly fisherman means Hendrickson time on the Mad! Historically, the Henny hatch can happen on warm afternoons coupled with water temperatures consistently in the mid 50 degree range. The downside is that the Spring flow charts can look like a roller coaster at Kings Island this time of year which dramatically influences the hatches and the ability to just get in the stream to take a look. Once again, this has happened before and it happened again. As a matter of fact, it is happening as I write. The weather and the flow of the River allowed us around two to maybe three days per week in April of conditions that seemed like dry fly kind of afternoons. Believe me when I say we took and are taking advantage of every opportunity available to be in the Stream. Good news is that the featured fly patterns we forecasted for success have proven themselves worthy of our trust, so far. Hendrickson emergers, duns, cripples, and spinner patterns employed by the Team at some old reliable spots have produced some great adventures and new memories of rising Brown Trout on the Mad this Spring. Great news is the Hennys are still hatching and we should see Sulfurs within the next few weeks. Needless to say, but I will, early success found by forecasting based on historical patterns and cycles seems to be working. This certainly encourages us to stick with the plan, for now.

July, August, & September

Mad River Report and Forecast

Back to the future. You might notice that we have included a three month period of time in this section in regards to a Mad River overview. As far as fly fishing is concerned, not much changes during the “Summer” season. What we see in terms of insect activity and in turn what fly patterns we employ to fool the Brownies is the same in July as it is all the way through mid September, near about. The Summer flows on the Mad become more stable and low which makes for pleasant wading conditions on most every outing. We do keep a close watch on water temperatures this time of year in order to give our finny friends a more stress free existence. I have found that when water temps reach 64 degrees and above, it is best to not attempt to wrestle with the local trout population. That is if you care if your quarry survives the battle, we do. A little local knowledge here, the further North you go on the Main Stem of the Mad the more consistent cooler water you will encounter. The primary reason is simply because there is more direct Spring Creek influence the further upstream you go. Trout love and thrive in cool clear water. As a matter of fact, there are a few beautiful Spring Creek tributaries North of Urbana, OH that have public access and others that require permission from the stream side land owners. We have had the great fortune over the years of being able to spend many a late Summer afternoon enjoying the benefits of cold running spring water that pushes up from the ground forming the headwaters that become the Main Stem of the Mad River. The water quality and subsequent flora and fauna that can be found in and around these little blue lines on the map provide a paradise for the resident Brown Trout.

Just the other day, Buck and I had a chance encounter at the stream with two officials from the Ohio EPA. As we were sitting on the gate of the truck suiting up for the day’s fishing, our solitude was interrupted by the arrival of, at a glance, a plain white pick-up truck and what looked like two young fishermen making a mad dash for our spot. I could tell that Buck was mentally preparing to deliver his “fly fishing is for gentlemen” speech to these guys. We should all know that the first fly fisherman to reach the creek has the first choice of upstream or down. These two were in store for an earful from a grizzled face fly fishing veteran on etiquette. I planned on being the innocent bystander unless Buck needed me to join the fray. Thankfully, the two suspects popped back up out of the woods before we had finished lining up our rods. At about that time I noticed they were not carrying any fishing equipment, which was good for all of us. After handshakes and introductions, instead of hurt feelings and a bloody nose, Mr. Juhasz and I enjoyed a short seminar and explanation of what these guys were up to. Come to find out, the Ohio EPA is conducting a Biological and Water Quality Study of the Mad River Watershed this Summer 2023. They explained the objectives of this study are what I would call broad and complete. They plan to evaluate stream habitats, measure biological health, investigate potential sources of problems, characterize degradation, and assess recreation risks. They are going to check out the Trout and the bugs which is way cool! If you happen to run into an EPA official on the Mad this Summer, firstly thank them and then ask some questions. Based on the genuine enthusiasm these guys exhibited when answering our inquiries speaks to the fact that they love to share their findings. One question they answered for me was, “what classification of River do the officials of Ohio consider our beloved Mad to be, freestone, spring creek, or headwater?”. The answer surprised me until the explanation followed. Due to the main source of the water in the Mad coming from natural occurring spring creeks and seeps, the answer is Headwater. That is good news for fly fishermen both now and in the future. Apparently the quality bar that needs to be maintained in several areas of established requirements for a Headwater Stream is as high as it gets. I really hope and believe that special care for the Mad River will be properly monitored and maintained for years to come after talking with these two wrongfully accused honey hole poachers. As a self confessed Trout Bum, I really like the fact I can legitimately say my home water is a Headwater Trout Stream, it’s official.

Techniques and Fly Patterns

Summer fly fishing on the Mad calls for some searching in regards to rising trout. The low flows and warmer water temperatures tend to push the resident Brown Trout into the runs of deeper water with shade and cover from above. The deeper water with shade allows the trout to enjoy the coolest conditions available this time of year. Also, Brown Trout do not like sunlight as a rule and they naturally hang out where the shadows give them comfort. The shade I am referring to is usually provided by overhanging streamside bushes and trees, on the Mad. The great news for a dry fly fisherman is that the flora growing on the banks that provide shade is also a house for bugs, Terrestrials. Imagine relaxing in your cool living room during the heat of a bright sunny day and you get hungry. No need to get up except to answer the door when Door Dash shows up. There is all kinds of activity happening in those bushes located over the trout’s head. Beetles, ants, deer flies, caterpillars, etc. are moving around and falling out of their treehouses all day long. I am not a trout, but I have observed their feeding habits and I imagine a juicy size beetle plopping on the surface of the stream after slipping off of a leaf is a lot like a dinner bell to a trout. As a matter of fact, the feeding behavior exhibited by Brownies when the plop occurs reminds me of the old Tarzan movies. You remember, the plank on the makeshift jungle bridge gives way and the bad guy falls into the jaws of the crocodiles waiting below. I think you get the point. Explosive is the word that comes to mind. Long walks in the River looking for these conditions should be expected. When you find overhanging vegetation, deeper runs, and a foam line running through the neighborhood, it is time to stop and observe. If you are patient, your reward will come by way of a Brown showing you where he lives. Tie on a Terrestrial pattern of your choice and ring his bell, you will soon know if he is interested in what you have on the menu.

If you get bored with Terrestrials, not sure why you would, try skating a Caddis pattern through the riffles. There may be Caddis dancing on the surface at this time of year and rising trout can be spotted chasing the adult caddis, when they feel up to it. There have been times when a properly executed downstream swing has done the trick on splashy rising fish when nothing else seems to work. It is a good idea to have a few Caddis patterns in your fly box just about anytime of the year when fishing the Mad River.

Other plans for the Summer 2023 include many trips to our Private Spring Creek where the water is always cool and the Brown, Brook, Rainbow, and Tiger Trout are always up for a tussle. This target-rich environment is certainly a welcome retreat during the dog days of Summer and can serve as a kind of balm for the wounds suffered from tough days on the River, mental and physical. I have never hosted any fly fisherman on the Club waters that did not feel better after chasing the “Slam”, all four varieties, with a dry fly, while casually strolling through a piece of God’s most beautiful creation. A day like that can make one forget about all the hassles of the real world, at least for the day.

October, November & December

When I am wading in the Mad River on a warmer than average kind of Fall afternoon, I may be heard claiming that this is my favorite time of the year on the stream. The angle of the sunlight during the Fall Equinox streaming through the colors in the trees then shining on and in the Gin clear cold water needs to be seen and felt to fully understand and appreciate the beauty of it all. A casual wade, upstream with a fly rod in hand, through the very low flows that typically occur this time of year can be soothing to the Soul. It is nice to know that as long as this old world keeps turning around, the age-old spectacle of Autumn will show up again this year. If God is willing.

October brings with it the conversations, around the fly shop, of past blanket kind of hatches of the famous “October Caddis” that have occurred over the years on local streams. I would imagine this kind of banter can be heard in any fly shop around any Midwestern Trout Streams. Based on what I have experienced and been told, a Midwestern fly fisherman can expect to see Caddis emergence, in number, on your local Trout Stream this time of year. I know we do on the Mad. Some years are better than others for sure. That being said, I do not believe that over the last twenty or so years there has been a Fall when some kind of adult Caddis pattern wouldn’t do the trick when it comes to fooling a rising Fall brown trout, if presented properly. I call that a pattern and we are going to stick with the plan until it stops working.

Fly Pattern Forecast

The boys at ReelFlyRod.com have encouraged me to try some new things out over the last couple of years. I am talking about tying materials in this instance. I have started including a little splash of some flashy materials in combination with my love of natural ingredients. The results were met with success last year from October through early December. Our hope is that there are many opportunities this Fall to clear our minds in order to focus on the foam lines as they gather the Autumn leaves. Yes, the leaves in the water are beautiful, incredibly beautiful. However, when it comes to fly fishing, the leaves and other floating debris can cause some issues. Sometimes it is quite difficult to maintain a drag free drift when the leaves are piling up around your waders. We find it best to wait for the rise, then make your plan of attack. If there is not much competition on the surface of the stream, in terms of floating leaves and debris, a natural pattern presented with a dead drift through the trout’s window has worked before, Kings River Caddis. When the surface of the water is crowded with stuff and the quarry is picking off its meal in between those beautiful floating leaves, we believe a little flash on your Caddis pattern might stand out and inspire a closer look or even better, commitment. This is one of those situations where we have tried it and it works, on the Mad. Two different patterns with a multitude of color combinations should do for this Fall. The Parachute Caddis pattern is designed for more of a “in the film” presentation. The Caddis Thrasher pattern is great for chasing after the splashy rises that will be seen. A downstream swing with the Thrasher coupled with a little quiver in your casting hand can produce some very explosive takes from the aggressively feeding Brownies under those splashes that you are seeing. A little local knowledge here, try tying a Griffith’s Gnat behind your skating Thrasher and watch your catch rate go up substantially. Sometimes they say no to the Caddis but can’t pass on a pile of midges.

If this Fall looks anything like previous Autumn weather patterns here in SW Ohio, the aforementioned conditions and techniques will be employed by the Team right up until Mid December. The onset of consistently cold temperatures this time of year usually cuts down the amount of opportunities to cast a dry fly, in comfortable conditions, on the Mad. That’s OK. This will be a great time to recharge, reflect, and refill the fly box for the next season while still seizing the opportunity to wet a line whenever possible.

I look forward to communicating an update somewhere along the line later this year, probably more of a review than an update, of how our forecasts are jiving with reality. I am curious to see how it goes. I am in the process of learning to enjoy the events of the day as they unfold without constantly wondering what is around the next bend in the river. With that being said, I do like to be prepared and allow for “Planned Spontaneity”. That’s about all I have to say about that.

A Year in the Life: Part One

Me reach casting upstream in a wild mountain stream.

I am presently putting together early plans for what we hope to be an incredible year of fly fishing on the Mad River and its tributaries. I am a firm believer in looking at the past in order to hopefully forecast what we might expect for the future. God has created wonderful patterns in all of His Creation that we can see if we take the time to look and investigate. I have taken a careful look at my fishing journals from 2022 and I have attempted to, based on the past, make some forecasts for what might take place in 2023. Only time will tell if I am anywhere near accurate with my plans. The only way to find out is to hit the stream and experience life’s adventure for yourself. I truly hope the following attempt at a look into the shop that is Morrett Fly Fishing will help you prepare for what might be around that next bend in your river. Enjoy this first part of a two part series of journal entries.

January

Tying Flies in Public

Although tying in public has proven to be very beneficial in terms of my tying skills, production numbers suffer greatly. When I say tying in public I am referring to the time spent at the Fly Shop, ReelFlyRod, either tying with buddies or hosting local Scout Troops with an introduction to Fly Tying. These sessions allow me the opportunity to pass on some traditional patterns that come with a little history conversation while working on the basics. The opportunity to spend some time at the vise with the watchful eye of an old timer looking over my shoulder has been so helpful in my learning process. I guess over the years I have become “the Old Guy”. That being said, I have become very open-minded in terms of trying some new materials and techniques. The young tiers I have had the opportunity to rub shoulders with around the vise have encouraged me to try a little experimentation. I have changed my mind on several occasions in regards to materials over the last couple of years and I think this has helped with imitating nature. I have heard it said, “A fool never changes his mind, but a wise man often does”.

Tying Flies in Private

The quiet of my fly tying room is where my imagination and production levels seem to be most inspired. I am surrounded by a collection of vintage trout flies tied by some of the Masters of the art, Marinaro, Ogden, Dette, and others. I have accumulated quite a collection of tying materials including feathers and fur from a variety of creatures over the years. Just about anything I need in terms of tying a dry fly of some kind is close at hand. Two Renzetti vises are on the ready position at any time. Why two? One for here and one for the road. All of this, plus the security at DEFCON 3 under the watchful eyes of my little partner Willow, our Guillie Miniature Schnauzer, adds up to paradise for a custom fly tier.

February

Testing Out New Fly Fishing Gear

Hanging around at ReelFlyRod has given me the rare opportunity to have early access to new toys that will be hitting the market in the Spring of the year. I feel a responsibility to try out and learn about all the new technology that will be available in the shop, you know, just in case someone asks me what’s new? I certainly suggest that before a purchase is made, that can be considered an investment, a fly fisherman should do his or her homework and ask the advice of a trusted and knowledgeable fly shop associate. There are so many options available, the help from an “expert” is invaluable. I have thoroughly enjoyed the availability that ReelFlyRod.com has provided me in regards to product testing from all the major manufacturers. There is a bunch of great stuff out there for sure. That being said, I always come back to my R.L. Winston Rods. The feel of casting a Winston fly rod is something that must be experienced, which means it is hard to explain. Casting a Winston WT that I have had for over twenty-five years is like getting back in touch with a dear old friend. Although you may not have seen each other in a while, the moment you step in to moving cold water together again, it seems like no time has passed since your last adventure. I am thrilled that the R.L. Winston Rod Company has accepted me as a Winston Pro. I have recommended Winston products for the last twenty-five years and will continue to do so because I believe it is the best. I realize you can not see me but I am holding up my good casting arm in the way of a pledge.

Gear Prep & Maintenance

I have found that no matter how much you pay for the rod, reel, or line of your choice, if you don’t practice a little bit of maintenance their shelf life will be shortened. For example, this time of the year is perfect for cleaning the cork on your rods that you use to do after every fishing trip. I am good for about every fourth trip in regards to cleaning the rod and line nowadays. Although I do not clean the rod, reel, and line after every trip, I do stick to the policy of never putting equipment away wet. The point is, I like to use this time of the year to clean up any remaining debris from last year and assess the damage. “Do I need to replace some fly lines?” “Any damage to the rod?” “Does my reel require periodic lubrication and cleaning?” “Did I patch the hole in my waders acquired a couple of trips ago?” “Did I glue the sole again on the right foot of my wading boots, or was it the left?” “Did I get the peanut butter crackers out of my waders pocket?” That kind of stuff. I have found that if I put it off much longer I will be caught with leaky waders, one usable boot, and a science project gone wrong in my sling pack when I get the call that something is hatching on the Mad River, sooner than I expected.

Taking Inventory on Flies

This is an area where I can be over prepared. I have decided to be a little more spontaneous this year with my personal fly inventory going into the season. After many years of fly fishing the Mad River, you can imagine many different patterns have found success by imitating the same natural insect prevalent at that time of the year. I have accumulated quite a variety of patterns that I tie as well as those tied by others. This can be a blessing and a curse. Standing in the middle of a stream during a hatch with two dozen different Hendrickson Dun patterns to choose from in your box can make one crazy! I am going to tie a small supply of a couple of my favorite patterns for the expected arrival of some insect friends that usually show up towards the end of February and into March. These chosen patterns have worked over the years and I am willing to bet they will show up again, God willing and the hope of a drag free drift.

March

What to Expect

These can include many variables, such as weather, water conditions, CFS readings, insect activity, to name but a few. I, like other local fly fishermen of a certain age, remember the March when the Hendricksons came off early. I have kept a pretty detailed journal of Spring insect activity on the Mad River for the last twenty-three years. That being said, I have had success with a few Hendrickson patterns in March a grand total of twice, but that’s just me. Based on the last few years of observation my expectations have been narrowed a bit and I feel pretty confident in what I expect to realistically see on the Mad River this March, probably. Little Black Stoneflies should start showing evidence of their presence by their leftover shucks on the rocks stream side. If you are really lucky enough to see their tracks in the snow, get some pictures because it is really cool! Last year was the first year I tied a particular pattern of Early Black Stonefly and it might have won Rookie of the Year. In regards to Mayfly hopes for March and once again, looking at the last couple of years, we should see some size 16 and size 18 Blue Quills. I have two different Adams inspired patterns that I plan to employ to fool the little Blue Quill eating Brown Trout this Spring.

Patience

Conditions have to come together in order for all the variables to work out just right for a wonderful dry fly kind of March day. It happens, just not every other day. Time for a road trip! I am very fortunate that my Senior Business Partner and Father of two of my Grandchildren, lives in the middle of some absolutely beautiful mountain streams in North Carolina. Andy has taken on the task of finding out what swims above that last waterfall and breaks trail for the two of us. Searching and fly fishing for Wild Brook Trout is truly an adventure that could last a lifetime. I am blessed that I have a partner that keeps me motivated to stretch my physical abilities coupled with the knowledge that Andy could carry my happy ass out of the forest if the need be. Both of us have made great improvements in our casting skills as the situation has called for the last couple of years. Learning to match the plane of your casting stroke in order to accommodate the local topography and flora one can encounter on mountain streams is but one example. Sometimes it can be like casting in a large culvert. Necessity has made us both learn how to alter our casting stroke in order to fish a stream well. The lessons learned and techniques employed while fly fishing in the mountains has made us both more efficient fly fishermen. Added bonus, I believe this counts as a business trip.

April

Nature’s Way

The signs will start showing up sometime in the month of April. I am speaking of Nature’s signs. Once the air temperature hits the mid 50 degree mark and the water temperature climbs to around 52 degrees, it can happen. Purple flowers (Phlox) showing up on the streamside banks, various varieties of birds gathering in the trees along the creek and dive bombing invisible quarry over the surface of the stream, dead bodies (Mayfly’s) hanging in the spider webs strategically placed in flight zones by the local spider population all say it is on! The annual hunt for bugs officially begins on the Mad. Hendricksons have been historically the largest hatch on the Mad River, sometimes large and sometimes not so much. That is just the truth. For reference, I have had April’s on the Mad when a ten fish day, all on dry presented to rising trout, happened, and not just once. Incredible hatch coupled with a Spinner fall from the night before, happened, and not just once. All this means is there is a good chance it can happen again, it just hasn’t happened for me, lately. This means I am due. I will be ready with a few special Hendrickson patterns for when the first sighting is made. I found I experienced more success last season with a size 16 as my go to size for Hendrickson patterns as compared to size 14. A size 18 Klinkhammer in Hendrickson and Adams colorations worked well for a trailing pattern last year. We will see how these work as starters and then go from there. The we I speak of will probably be my partner on the stream, Buck Juhasz. I say probably due to the feeling of uncertainty created from an accident last Spring. Buck went down and then into the hospital for repair to a broken hip. He would like to tell you it happened while fighting the biggest brown trout of his life but in actuality, just a silly household accident. Lessons learned from this incident come in two parts. Firstly, life can change in an instant and does. Enjoy each moment and everything involved in that moment while you can. Secondly, I was not anticipating the Summer would be spent without my “vessel” being filled in conversations while walking in the river with Mr. Juhasz. My fly fishing adventures are truly enhanced when Family or Friends are involved

May

It’s Time!

The number of custom fly orders and the call to host trips on the Mad and its tributaries increased tremendously compared to the year before in the month of May. Fly orders from various regions around the country including New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida, Texas, California, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Arkansas, South Carolina, and oh yeah, Ohio were filled. I had the great opportunity to host and introduce a wide range of fly anglers to Southwest Ohio trout fishing. I have found that a very large percentage of my hosted trips consist of a parent and a child. Father and adult children combinations are most common. I know from my life’s experiences with my Father and my children that there is something special about the bonds formed, lessons learned, and impressions that are made while floating on a lake or wading in a stream that will grow and last a lifetime. I truly enjoy hosting a Parent and a grown child that are possibly re-capturing lost memories from their past, observing the excitement rekindled and shared between them. The smile on a young child’s face in a hero shot photo of their first trout caught on a fly rod is a moment in time that every Father should share with their child. The excitement created by Andy and his team at CreativeFuse with all of their digital branding initiatives over the last couple of years has introduced Morrett Fly Fishing to areas of the country that have, quite honestly, been a surprise to me. I am grateful for their patience and excellence.

Spring Creek Reunion

Personal fly fishing trip with three of the oldest friends that I have, Todd, Mark, and Rod. A few days of trout fishing at the Private stream was just what was needed by all of us, we just didn’t know it. We all started our fly fishing adventures, at different times, on the Davidson River in Brevard, North Carolina. About twenty-five years ago the four of us started spending as much time in a river together as we could. I guess we still do, there is just not as much available time. Not a new story. We all agreed that the next time we all get together will not be at one of our funerals.

Mad River Report & Forecast

Later in the evening Sulfur hatch consistently producing very selective rising brown trout for about a two hour window. The necessity to use long light leaders coupled with longer than usual casting requirements can make this a very challenging endeavor for the dry fly fisherman. Most success was found by either trailing small emerger patterns or an old reliable size 20 Griffith’s Gnat. A size16 or even better a size 18 Sulfur Dun pattern for the lead fly seemed to work best. We believe the overall size of the Mayfly’s in April and May were smaller than in years past. We will see if this pattern continues.

June

Father’s Day Trip

My son, Ben, and I started a tradition about ten years ago that includes Musky hunting. Originally, we hired a Musky guide, Tony Grant, for the day’s adventure and we always found our quarry, I just couldn’t get one in the net. Nowadays, Ben is my Musky guide on Northern Ohio waters and he always seems to hook up with a monster when I am with him so that I can refine my netting abilities. Although I have had my share of opportunities, I have yet to get one in the boat. Hopefully my Son has not given up on me yet and we will be sharing time together in June hunting this most toothy of freshwater predators. I have learned a couple of fishing lessons in regards to Muskies over the years. First, do not underestimate the value of a properly executed figure eight with the appropriate size fly rod for the job at hand. Second, a trailer hook located towards the back end of your feathers is a must, trust me on this one.

Mad River Report & Forecast

The possibility of experiencing the last of our major Mayfly hatches on the Mad River happens in June, usually. Careful observation along the stream side rocks near silted river bottoms, during the last light of the day, may expose the elegant Brown Drake emerging into adulthood. This time on the river can produce a chance at some of the larger brown trout that swim in the Mad. Be patient and wait for the big boy to show his head. This is the time when your first cast will be your best shot at a trophy. After that first cast the holdovers can get real particular and selective. I have learned to make the first shot count, I may not get another. Last year’s most successful patterns will be employed again this year, to start. A size 12 Brown Drake Cripple pattern with a size 14 trailing Klinkhammer Emerger tied to imitate the Drake was the winning ticket for Brown Drakes in June ‘22. On a side note, when Buck and I fish together we take turns casting to rising trout. We call it “nods”. At the end of a day of double teaming a stretch of water, we each catch about the same number of trout. With Buck on the sideline recovering from hip surgery, I estimated that I would double the amount of fish I would catch going solo on the same stretch of water we had fished together many times over the years. Not so, in fact I don’t believe I was as accurate or as focused without Buck looking over my shoulder, literally. Sometimes a little pressure can bring out the best in you.

Custom Fly Case Study: Unraveling the Mystery

Samples of Halladay's Michigan Trout Flies

Foundations

A quote from the famous English fly fisherman and fly tier, G.E.M. Skues, that was communicated over 125 years ago. “I think, however, it should be the ideal of the sportsman angler to take his trout, where he can do so, by the means of imitations, representations, or suggestions of its natural food presented in the conditions in which the trout is feeding on.”

In the early part of the 1900’s, Theodore Gordon tied his own custom flies by observing nature and the trout’s behavior while feeding. Closer observation provided Gordon with a color palette that would closely match the particular mayfly that was prevalent at that time on the water. Gathering materials such as fur and feathers was undoubtedly an adventure. Gordon discovered and pointed out the incredible color, pattern, and texture similarities that can be found in nature when it comes to birds and bugs. Every fly tied by Gordon was custom, intended to imitate a particular bug or baitfish that he had observed. After keen observation, the hunter gatherer’s instinct showed up and Theodore headed to the forest for materials. I believe he discovered that nothing can imitate nature as well as nature itself.

I think Vince Marinaro took the observation of a trout’s feeding behavior to a whole new level in the 1940’s and 1950’s. All the detailed study he and his buddies performed on the Letort Spring Run in Pennsylvania led to tying a custom fly that would match what the trout was seeing and how it was being seen from the trout’s point of view. Although, I have heard from reliable sources, Vince was not known for selling or even sharing his flies, the patterns he created and inspired are all based on imitating the trout’s food source at the vice using fur and feathers.

Len Halladay tied flies for customers around the Grayling, Michigan area as far back as 1917. Arguably the most famous custom fly pattern ever created was tied by Halladay for a customer to be used on the Boardman River. The customer came to Halladay with specifics in regards to a hatch that was happening at that time. With input from the client, Charles Adams, Halladay crafted a dry fly that both men thought was a match. The next morning’s fishing report from the evening before was that this fly was a “knock-out”. This was the birth of the Adams Dry Fly created by Len Halladay. This pattern has had countless variations tied since that evening that have fooled trout around the world. I think it is cool that all of this possibly started with a simple, “Hey Len, you think you can tie up something that looks like this?”.

I have found that most avid and successful fly fishermen are keen observers of what’s going on around the river in regards to insect activity. They may not know the name of the bugs they are seeing but they know what they look like. The next step is finding a fly that looks like what is being observed on or around the river. The flies that are commercially tied are representations of many variations of mayflies, caddis flies, terrestrials, etc. that are found around streams throughout the world. These can be found at the local fly shop and are patterns that have worked in the past and continue to perform well. However, there are times when a discriminating or frustrated fly fisherman can not find the perfect fly. He or she knows what they want but can not find the pattern tied commercially. There is no better feeling as a fly fisherman than to fool a trout with a pattern that you tied yourself or you were an integral part of the design process. This is where a custom fly tier has stepped in over the years to help make this happen for the angler. This is the tradition that we hold on to and are passing down to the next generation.

What the custom fly tying process looks like in practical terms can be broken down into stages by sharing details of a recent large order of mayflies that we filled for a Michigan fly fishing adventure. This process is based on the same concept used over the years. I try to apply these steps with every custom fly order I tie, no matter the quantity.

Step One: Investigation & Discovery

Most of the requests for my custom flies come from discriminating fly fishermen looking for something specific that they can not find in the fly bins. This was the case with a recent order from an experienced fly angler from Michigan. This client had all the information necessary to create imitations of what he had in mind for the river he was planning to fish. Expectations of experiencing the annual Green Drake hatch was high. Information necessary to tie a truly custom fly had already been gathered by the fisherman. Important and necessary intel such as what body of water or stream is the destination, of course, is essential. The time of year of the trip needs to be determined to properly forecast what kind of insect activity might be expected. More specifics would include local knowledge and eye witness accounts. Client information from personal experience is invaluable if available. A phone conversation with an avid fly fisherman in regards to what he or she has seen on or around the stream can produce all the information needed to co-create a representation of what is imagined. If detailed information is not available from the client then the investigation begins.

I have gained some experience and local knowledge over the years on many rivers, streams, and spring creeks around the Midwest and other destinations in regards to trout fishing. Many of the trips have started with a quality guide leading the way. I have employed the services of many over the years. Fortunately, I have remained in contact with many of these guys and they continue to be a great source of information in regards to trout fishing in their region of the country. This is the first phone call I make when I need to know what they are seeing, hearing about, or expecting to see on their local waters. The local fly shop or shops located near your destination are another excellent source of information in regards to hatch charts. The fly offering they have in the shop will certainly mirror what is being seen in their backyard. The websites for destination location shops are a great source for viewing quality images of flies available for sale in their inventory. Common sense tells me to pay attention to details in regards to species, sizes, colors, and pattern choices for recommended flies. I have got to think they are stocking patterns that will work on their local streams. I like to purchase some flies from the local fly shop at destinations and thank them for being there.

The last bit of information needed concerns what type of presentation the client is planning on making. The choices may include dry fly, nymphing, streamers, etc and the fly pattern or patterns that may perform. I specialize in dry fly patterns, however, I have provided for clients over the years a wide variety of other options.

Step Two: Samples

Back to the Green Drakes in Michigan. As I mentioned earlier, this client had all the information. He had fished this water many times in the past at the same time of the year. The client had experience fishing this hatch with some success using parachute patterns. He explained to me that he could not find the exact color or size he thought would be perfect for his needs. He hoped that we could create exactly what he had imagined. The last phone conversation we had before starting some sample patterns allowed us to take a very close look as to what was happening on the water and in the air during the hatch. I offered up some suggestions in regards to the effectiveness of having some crippled patterns to go along with the parachute order for a different look for the trout. We talked about the spinner fall and the fact that Green Drake spinners are normally an off-white coloration on the abdomen and lighter wings than found on the corresponding dun. The client mentioned that yes, he had seen this white spinner sparingly in the past. It seemed to him that the trout were feeding more heavily on a slightly smaller rusty brown colored spent spinner. We discussed the possibility that a smaller hatch was happening masked by the larger Green Drake bodies flying around everywhere. Sometimes, trout will fool an angler by focusing on a food source that is less prevalent on the water than the main hatch being observed. I appreciate the fact that this client had witnessed this feeding behavior and wanted to be prepared if similar conditions occur this year. Observation and first hand accounts from a fly fisherman can make the sampling process a much more focused and clearer task. The sample patterns that were prepared included a variety of possibilities to choose from along with a pretty wide selection of colorations, styles, textures, materials, and wing possibilities. I think it is really cool when a client does a little combo platter by picking out different aspects of the various samples, combines them, and then creates a very unique and one of a kind fly.

Step Three: Pattern Approval

After careful consideration of sample photos by the client, final samples needed to be tied. My focus was to be on parachutes, cripples, spinners, and rusty spinners. The theme handed down from the client included extra large and dark green, very dark. Four sample patterns were then tied attempting to incorporate all the details discussed and defined. The Michigan Dark Green Drake project was approved for the production of one hundred Green Drake variations.

Step Four: Gathering Materials

Before starting the actual tying process, I make sure there are enough materials in my inventory to complete the order with consistent ingredients. If not, a trip to the feather store is in order. You know, the fly shop. I had no idea what immediate impact the need for one hundred extra large dark olive feathers would have on a cape that I have had for some time. My math said that I will need about three hundred moose mane quills for tails. One large package of dubbing in the right color of olive will be needed. Three large packages of different colors of Z-Lon for the parachute posts and wings combined with a pinch of polar bear fur will do nicely. The spinners will require turkey biots for the abdomen coupled with corresponding colors of dubbing to match. Oh yeah, I will probably need some hooks as well. I am fortunate that over the years I have acquired a large inventory of tying materials. The gathering aspect for me is knowing where certain materials are stored in my cedar boxes and locating them. The hunting portion is reserved for the materials I need to go looking for, you know, hunting. This is not as tough of a duty as Theodore Gordon had to endure but it is a similar process. It takes time and also knowing where to look.

Step Five: Vice Time

I estimate that I can tie about four of these particular patterns in one hour. My calculations call for around twenty-five hours of tying time. The client needed this order in about a five week time period. I am old school when I say vice time was scheduled using my old reliable Filson day timer to make sure this order would ship complete and on time. Twenty-five hours of time tying gives one time to think. I think I am glad I love to tie flies because tying flies is not a wealthy man’s profession or pursuit, trust me on this one. Another thought that kept re-occurring during the tying process was how important a little fly can be to the overall success of a fly fishing trip. This thought keeps me focused on each individual fly that I tie. My policy is that when a client receives the order, if there is any problem with an individual fly or the entire order, please send them back. I believe in my fly patterns and I take the trust that a client has placed in me seriously.

Final Step: Inspection & Delivery

My final inspection happens as the flies are placed individually into their new travel box. They look like little soldiers going off to battle. We check each fly out for any loose ends or missed steps. I take photos of each custom pattern I tie for the records and to ensure I have a pattern for future orders. At this point it is time to say good-bye to my little buddies. I look forward to photos of the kids enjoying their jobs on a river they were made for with their new owner holding a beautiful trout the two of them have landed together.

Memory Boxes

A close-up of my hands tying a fly with my vise

Winter is Here

Well, it is official. With the first snow on the ground here in SW Ohio, my focus has changed from fly fishing to fly tying. Oh make no mistake, there will be days spent in the River this Winter looking for trout feeding on the possible Blue Wing Olive hatches and the Midge clusters that are usually prevalent this time of the year on the Mad. However, most of my time will be spent at the tying desk either here at the Morrett Fine Art studio or at the coolest fly shop I have ever had the opportunity to shop or just hang out in, ReelFlyRod. I have had the pleasure of living in an art studio for most of my married life. I have learned much over the years by watching my fine artist wife, Melanie Morrett, make discoveries in her work that have greatly influenced my view of the world. I seem to notice small details that were previously overlooked. Colors, textures, values, movements, shades, and shadows in nature have been revealed to me over the years through the eyes and by the hands of a true artist. Incorporating these and other small details in the creation of the imitation is where the art of fly tying can be found. Being around the staff of ReelFlyRod has allowed me the opportunity to learn much from these talented young brothers of the angle in regards to modern technology. In return, I humbly feel the responsibility of connecting this team to the history and soul of fly fishing and fly tying, as best I can. Put us all in one pile and we do a pretty good job of looking back, leaning in, looking forward, and fishing as well as we can.

Planning Ahead

Now comes the time to reflect on successes, disappointments, and other learning experiences from this past trout season. As a fly tier, I reflect and plan for the next season beginning with my inventory boxes of flies. I maintain inventory of certain patterns of my custom flies that have proven to be successful both personally and with clients. A particular favorite Mayfly pattern will have a beginning inventory of a few dozen to start the season. Most of my patterns, in regards to custom orders, are filled to order with one remaining in my collection. With a good picture and a fly in my hand, I have found that I can pretty much re-create what I have created before. Of that I am sure, no doubt, somehow.

I usually begin my serious tying with Mayflies. I have tried and tied many different Mayfly patterns over the years and quite honestly, many have come up wanting. The Mayfly patterns I maintain in my personal inventory are made up of proven or variations of proven patterns from the Quill Gordon, the Adams, Catskill style, Vince’s Thorax Dun, the Parachute, and to the Crippled Dun. These patterns have allowed for much flexibility in regards to the multitude of different materials that can be used for the body parts of a Mayfly. Experimentation has brought me to this point and I am confident that it is still a work in progress. My Mayfly inventory boxes are organized by pattern and species. This is where I begin the tying process for the next season. I imagine the River from month to month as to what we can expect from our local waters under normal conditions.

March is the beginning of Mayfly hunting for me on the Mad River. The first pattern to be concerned with will be the Blue Quill. Sometimes in mid to late March the Blue Quills will be the first notable hatch on the Mad as well as many other Midwestern streams. I tie size 16 and 18 Adams variations to imitate the Blue Quill as well as other species found on streams throughout the year. The original Adams colors consisted of gray body, grizzly and brown tails and hackle, with Grizzly hen wings. I like to use a single Cree hackle feather for my Adams patterns instead of one brown and one grizzly. I know the fly is lighter, the Cree hackle picks up light and imitates movement like no other feather, and I just think it’s cool to use Cree. I must admit that over the years I have accumulated enough Cree cape and saddle hackle to last me a lifetime. Due to high prices and shortage of Cree in today’s market I am thinking of a small safe instead of my Cedar Box. My preferred body material varies depending on the pattern. On the original Adams pattern I use gray beaver fur. Adams parachutes call for a gray turkey biot. My Cripple and Klinkhammer Adams patterns call for Moose mane dyed gray or sometimes natural for the body. The number of flies remaining in the bin reminds me of how well the fly performed this season. I remember my largest dry fly brown trout of the season was caught on a size 16 Polar Cripple Blue Quill as documented in my Journal Entry “April Reflections”. Note to self, have plenty on hand.

Early April could and should bring the Hendrickson hatch to the Mad River. Hendrickson patterns call for a larger beginning inventory, due to demand, with some tweaks based on this year’s results. Hendrickson Crippled Duns tied in size 16 performed better than size 14 this year. In looking back, perhaps the successes found in fooling rising trout had to do with switching to a smaller size imitation. Maybe I did not notice the smaller than usual naturals in the air during a hatch. Just something to pay attention to next Spring. I did notice, and my lack of remaining inventory confirms, that Klinkhammer emergers worked well during the Hendrickson, Sulfur, Brown Drake, and BWO hatches. One of the most satisfying and noteworthy Brown Trout of the season came right at dark on a Brown Drake Klinkhammer. I had been working the same foam line for about an hour with no luck on at least six different drake and sulfur patterns. This adventure was documented in the Journal Entry “Early Summer Dreaming”. I will need to order some Klinkhammer hooks for delivery at once. I will also need to bend some dry fly hooks for my Cripple patterns.

In looking at my Terrestrial box, I notice a big hole where Mattress Thrashers used to be. Once again, it seemed the smaller size pattern proved to be more successful in all the color variations I tie. During the middle of Summer the size 16 all Black Thrasher became a go to fly. I am not sure if the resident brownies thought the imitation was a cricket, beetle, stonefly, caddis, ant, or any other unfortunate flying or crawling black bug that finds itself in serious dread caught in the surface film of the stream. I guess the Thrasher in black covers a lot of bases when it comes to Terrestrials. Many risers were fooled into believing the Mattress Thrasher was whatever food source they happened to be looking up for. I need to fill the bin with size 14-18 Thrashers. In searching through some drawers, looking for something important I am sure, I came across six original Mattress Thrashers that Rusty Gates tied one rainy afternoon in his shop. One of the patterns has rubber legs that I remember Rusty said he was going to try. I am not sure if he ever got around to it. I am going to tie some up and test them out for him. I also need to talk Buck into showing me the little tweaks he has developed over the years in regards to his Deer Hair Beetle. Reality is, people come and people go. Much is to be learned and passed on while dealing with a limited shelf life. I am determined to pay closer attention to those whose opinion I respect whether tying or just living.

Putting in the Work

This is actually a great time to focus on the preparation involved with the tying of the needed patterns for next season. I have been invited by ReelFlyRod to set up a vise at the shop this Winter for myself and the other Staff tiers to share some techniques with other local tiers whether just beginning or a grizzled faced veteran. I have not been released into public to tie in a long time and I am looking forward to learning from some of our local talent. With the increased focus on fly tying comes a close look at needed materials, both personally and at the fly shop. The patterns that we tie for personal use or for our client’s use are the same patterns tied with the same materials. Any pattern we are featuring at the shop or on the MorrettFlyFishing website needs to be supported by corresponding materials available in our inventory. That is our goal. I am sure notifications will be sent out there once all the information and planning comes together. I would imagine the first of the year will be a good starting point as I have just noticed that it is mid December. We need to put together a schedule so that you will know when a tier will be at the shop and available at the vise. This is a work in progress. In the meantime, feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We will all do our best to help with the process of getting started. This includes purchasing the correct materials and tools.

Fly boxes can tell a well schooled fly fisherman much about previous fishing trips. For example, the moisture in my Caddis box teaches me a couple of noteworthy lessons from the past season. First of all, I have become complacent in regards to wading. A complete dunking in about three feet of cold November Mad River water will remind you in a hurry to be careful at all times when stepping into moving water. I also learned that water resistant phone/cameras are more of a hope, not a guarantee. After spending $500 for a new phone and a waterproof case for underwater videos that would make Jacques Cousteau jealous, I am back in the game.

One last lesson from the fly boxes that I can think of at the time of this writing. I have boxes of flies that I have tied with many patterns specific to the river or streams we were exploring. Great memories but also a little sad. I wonder if Mel and I will make it back to that special place at that special time of the year. The Little J box with the slightly orange sulfurs and the BWO cripples that were so effective on neighboring Spruce Creek in May. The small box with the White Mayfly patterns and Hex spinners on the ready for a humid August evening on the Yellow Breeches. I have a box full of beautiful large Brown Drake and Hex patterns that did the trick on an early July evening on the big waters of the AuSable below Mio. The Wheatley box with the Gray Drake patterns inspired by Matt Supinski for the Muskegon. Another small box of Sulfur Mayfly patterns tied with CDC wings and a beautiful Amber biot body takes me to mild Summer evenings slowly drifting the South Holston casting to rising brown trout. One more box of wild looking terrestrials and caddis patterns that was last opened somewhere in the Driftless Region of SW Wisconsin in early September.

I believe we could use a road trip. My problem comes from deciding between proven locations or scouting out new waters. Either way, the Mad will probably be my next adventure and flies need to be tied with that in mind. Join us at the Shop once we get going and let me know if you need some patterns in preparing for Spring. I hope to see you on the River or in the Shop in 2022 if not before.

Keep your boots on the gravel,
Greg Morrett

The Ties That Bind

Greg and Eva crouched down in the field along the stream bank and Greg is pointing out to the river.

Past, Present & Pie

I was never convinced of what age a man could be considered old. Now that I receive a monthly check from Social Security, I feel that when someone says that “old guy” in referring to me, they are accurate. I am not whining, just stating the facts as I see them. I have discovered that I am reflecting and pondering more and more about my past and how that has created who I am today. I know there is more road in my rear view mirror than there is looking out of my windshield. I have been thinking about what I have inherited and what I might pass on to the next generation. In terms of inheritance, I am not talking about my Morrett ears or anything else one might consider genetic in nature. For instance, from my Dad, I am carrying on his love of fishing and his strong belief that Men should have short haircuts. From my Mom, take care of your children and your children’s children until you die. I am sure there is more but they may be just offshoots of the two main themes, fishing and family. For me, Faith has become the number one priority and everything else, if applied correctly, seems to fall in line. My best example of this came from a sermon I heard years back. The Pastor said, and I paraphrase his sermon, Faith in God and a relationship with Him is the whole pie and everything else in life are but pieces that make up the whole. Any piece of life we might be endeavoring to consume will have the flavor and aroma of God if He is the main ingredient. Good words that made sense to me then and still do today.

Making Family My Business

Just like my Dad, I do not have what the world would call or consider generational wealth to pass on. I have been blessed to have been able to provide a comfortable lifestyle for my family. With that being said, my kids and more than likely their children will need to work to make a living. I believe that is the way it is supposed to be and I make no apologies for that reality. I guess I inherited that as well. The official formation of our company, Morrett Fly Fishing, was greatly inspired by my wife, Melanie Morrett, and my son-in-law, Andy Baker. These two Senior partners convinced me that although a bundle of cash was not coming when I roll six, I needed to record and pass on some generational wealth as it pertains to lessons learned during my abundance of time spent either walking in or floating on water in pursuit of trout. Maybe they just got tired of trying to remember my stories.

Nonetheless, with the combination of Mel’s creative and spiritual guidance, Andy and CreativeFuse’ digital branding excellence, Eva the muse, and an old Trout Bum with a lot of stories, here we are today. I would like to take this opportunity to point out and thank the other associates that continue to inspire and contribute to our Mission Statement, “Faith, Family, Fly Fishing, these are the ties that bind”. Our “Toothy Predator” department is managed by Ben, Nicole, and Ruey Morrett. Although Rue is on assignment in China at this time, our prayers are that she will be joining us stateside as soon as possible. We need her on staff at the home office and on home waters. Our organizational and voice of reason department is Sarah Baker’s main responsibility. Coupled with a “one fish is all I need” mindset and the fact she is the second best Mom I have ever known gets her a full share of the business. Lila Baker is in charge of the “Did everyone see that? Good, because I’ll not be doing it again” department. Entertainment is her speciality as she develops a more contemplative approach to fly fishing. Lila lifts the morale of any room the moment she walks in. My co-tier in the Custom Fly department is my oldest Granddaughter Eva Baker. Eva and I inspire each other in regards to fly tying. She is truly passionate in terms of her creations and truly believes that the more you know about a bug the better you can imitate a bug. Her imagination is unmatched at the vise and she continues to stretch my desire to learn because she wants to know. In our fly fishing department, Eva is our young Jedi that keeps us in touch with the younger set and keeps us all connected with a childlike faith. Thank you “Eva Bug” for your leadership. I must mention that Willow Brook, our miniature schnauzer pup, has assumed the role of head of security as Rambo the Mountain Pug enjoys retirement in the mountains of North Carolina. I am working on the problem I have with loving the two pups more than some people. I am a work in progress as is our Company. I know both will grow. I have Faith, Family, and Fly Fishing.

Hooked on Summer

Our Summer fly fishing report from the Spring Creek has been a hoot! I had the great opportunity to introduce fly fishing for trout to several different age groups with a few more booked in September. Melanie was able to co-guide on one of the trips and she did a great job of teaching, tying, and netting. Brown, Rainbow, Brook, and Tiger trout were all brought to the net and hero shots followed. So cool to be able to help someone with the fundamentals in the morning then to watch them get a big boy on the reel and in the net that afternoon. This can be a once in a lifetime, bucket list kind of experience. Thank you to all my new fishing friends from the last couple of months.

I have been more intentional than ever in regards to daily reports as they occur on the Mad River via Facebook. I hope this has helped in terms of being at the right place, at the right time, with the right fly. Spending time a few hours a week in the shop at ReelFlyRod has been great in regards to River information coming in and going out. The featured fly patterns that have been proven to be successful can be found in the Custom Fly Section, as well as a pretty complete listing of flies available. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions by email, text, or phone. We really do love to help.

As usual, I am thinking about what is next in regards to trout fishing on Home waters. The Spring Creek trips I have coming up will no doubt have smiles and photos involved. I hope the fishing is as good on the Mad River as it has been all Summer. We hope to encounter plenty of brown trout rising to terrestrials through the end of September. October should be Caddis time running through November. Keep an eye out on Facebook and you will find updates on a weekly basis.

Thank you so much for your interest and support. Remember to listen to the sound of the river and you will get a trout.

April Reflections

A piece of artwork from Morrett Fine Art that showcases chasing foam lines on a strea

Artwork above created by Morrett Fine Art. View full piece.

Past Experiences, Present Impact

It seems, when it comes to fly fishing for trout, if you endeavor to pursue this addiction and you do so long enough, one can develop a condition called revisionist history. I am referring to our clouded memories of all the bugs we use to see hatching, the trout we saw rising, and the number and size of fish we fooled and brought to the net. You remember, the good old days. I think it is a sad state of affairs when all of our trips and successes are compared to what we remember as the way things used to be. I have discovered that kind of attitude can ruin all of the great experiences enjoyed by just having the opportunity to cast a fly on a cold stream with the possibility of a trout encounter. The Mad River and surrounding spring creeks have been my home waters and refuge for the last twenty years of my life. My fishing journal entries that I have kept have been, and continue to be, deposits into my memory bank for future withdrawal when I can no longer make it to the stream. My entries have evolved over the years. I find I spend more time now recounting the friends I was with, the surrounding flora and fauna, and the fact that every time I step into the river, the water is fresh and filled with new challenges. Nothing in life stays the same, especially in a trout stream.

That being said, past experiences, for me, provide a starting point when it comes to breaking the code, for that day, when it comes to fly fishing for trout. If you spend enough time on the stream you will experience similar conditions at different times over the years. I have found that what worked before, can and does still work today. The key is to draw upon past successes and apply them to the day at hand. I guess that would be considered wisdom. Oh, make no mistake, there are days when it is difficult to find fish, that’s OK. If my memory serves me correctly, I have experienced many days like that before, even in the good old days. Contentment is the freedom to be at your best and thankful even when the situation you are in is not all it could be or possibly how you remember it to be. I am finding that my path to find contentment can involve wading through a stream.

As of this writing I am reflecting on April’s adventures and the possibilities that May might bring. First, Hendricksons and Blue Quills showed up on the Mad and at the spring creek right on time. With that, the trout responded in kind just like they always have. The only problem was that cold days out numbered the warm ones. We took advantage of every possibility we had to offer up our selection of dry fly imitations and found success when Mother Nature cooperated. Low water flows made wading upstream a breeze and brown trout were found where we thought they would be, all good! We were able to locate risers during the afternoon when Hendricksons, Blue Quills, and a few March Browns were coming off in decent numbers. The patterns that we chose consisted of Cripple Duns and Klinkhammer Emergers. All the patterns fooled some very nice 10”- 14” brownies that showed us where they were located and came to the net with a properly presented drag free drift.

As is sometimes the case, one 18” buttered color brown stole the show for me in regards to April stories. While Buck was working a rise at the bottom of the run, I was spending the time watching and learning as he cast a Hendrickson Cripple in a manner that can only be described as elegant. It was only a matter of time until the trout was in Buck’s hand. While the show was going on, I noticed what appeared to be a nose breaking the surface of the water at the top of the run. Of course, the big boy was positioned where only a perfect cast would provide the presentation necessary to fool this trophy of a dry fly brown trout. After attempting a few less than perfect casts, the day was interrupted by the need to abandon the hunt in order to chase a fly rod downstream and provide some dry clothing to my partner. If you know me, this should tell you how much I value and respect my friend. I will not leave a beautiful rising trout for just everyone.

Confession

I have a confession to make, I cheated on my friend. I am really not sure why I was alone, but at about the same time the next day I found myself staring at the same run waiting for a fish to rise. It happened! Two splashy risers at the bottom of the run exactly where Buck landed his the day before. A Henny Cripple fooled two nice 12” brownies and while this was going on, the big boy showed me his nose again. I watched for an hour and a half as the boss of the run casually ate every mayfly that found itself in the small foam line that carried them under the branches that gave the trout shade and cover from above. During that time, he splashed my Emerger pattern as well as my Henny Cripple. I must admit that on one rise I pulled the fly away before he ever had a chance to suck it down. I was excited. All this and he never stopped eating naturals. Finally, a little wisdom kicked in. I tied on an additional four foot length of 6X tippet and a size 18 Blue Quill Cripple. Two casts and one good drift later and the fight was on! I was able to control my excitement and not put too much pressure on the 6X tippet in order to lead the 18” Brown to my net. Maybe good karma came into play for the good deed extended the day before. Or I have heard it said that it is better to be lucky than good. Either way, out of guilt, I did not tell Buck about the adventure for a couple of days. He completely understood and forgave me for my transgression. He knows me and he is truly a fine fisherman and a close friend.

On the Horizon

I am sitting in the living room and the weather girl is telling me that for the first week or so of May we will experience high temperatures in the low 60’s at best. Fine, I will use this time to make sure I have plenty of Sulfurs ready for the first break in the cold weather. I know from experience and my trusty journal entries from the past that Sulfurs will come with possibly some Brown Drakes to follow. When and where can only be determined by being out there. I will share what I find and what patterns work. Let me know if I can help. Drop me a note or give me a call. Starting the week of May 10th I am excited to say that I have been invited to join the staff at ReelFlyRod.com. What an incredible local fly shop this is going to be. I am so looking forward to being a part of such a motivated and knowledgeable group of fly fishermen that are dedicated to helping to make the fly fishing experience everything it should be. If you are local to the Southwestern area of Ohio, please stop in. If not, find out everything you need to know about the fly fishing world from a fly fishing shop that has soul at ReelFlyRod.com.

If I don’t see you on the river or at the shop, I will have a report in regards to bugs and trout in the not too far off future. As always, thank you for your interest and continued support.

Mountain Jewels

A young man in his thirties, Andy, alongside an older gentleman in his sixties, Greg, standing in front of a wild trout sign

Ohio Winters

The Winter here in Ohio has been tough to get through in regards to dry fly fishing. Lately, very few days have found their way above the 40 degree threshold which is our first indicator as to whether to break out our expensive underwear and head to the river. The second part of the equation is water condition. Home waters on the Mad have been pretty much low and clear since the Fall. Due to very cold temperatures, any precipitation has been in the form of snow that has stuck around since January. That being said, we had a few days in the 40’s and I believe we took every opportunity possible and found success plying the tactics that Buck and I laid out in our article that was included in the Winter issue of Matt Supinski’s Hallowed Water Journal. Small Blue Wing Olive cripples and emergers with a few Griffin’s Gnats did the job on any risers we spotted.

March has brought not only warmer temperatures with high hopes for Mayfly hatches coming soon but also snowmelt that can foul up the water overnight. This happens every early Spring in Southwest Ohio and is just part of the deal. The down time has allowed me to fill up my inventory of flies for Spring and early Summer. Every fly I have tied over the last couple of months has been crafted with the image of a beautiful trout breaking the surface and slurping my imposter. That kind of focus makes every fly I tie of utmost importance to me. I get a real rush when the plan all comes together whether it is on the end of my line, a friend’s, or a client’s.

I do thoroughly enjoy sitting at my fly tying desk with a cup of coffee and our Trout Bum Miniature Schnauzer “Willow” napping somewhere close at hand while the snow plows clear the roads outside. Recently, I have developed a twitchy casting arm and an adventure to the mountains of North Carolina seemed like good medicine. Luckily, my partner Andy Baker, also co-founder of CreativeFuse, has his home office nestled in the mountains near Columbus, North Carolina surrounded by beautiful southern trout streams just waiting to be explored. Road Trip!

Mountain Tribs

Although the main streams in the lower sections of the mountains had just recently been stocked, that was not what we were after. Andy had been scouting tributaries on his regular hiking trips around the area with his young family. I must admit, it was a nice change to show up with a fly rod in my hand and my guide ready to go to spots he had circled on his map. The only question was whether the old man could traverse the areas he had picked out. Steep climbs and descents around and over large slippery boulders, waterfalls, and rhododendrons were the theme of the trip. With this writing, I am happy to report that I can still get around well enough to keep up with the youngster. However, three days removed from the trip, I can just now go up and down our stairs without loud groans stemming from a sore lower back and tight hamstrings. Truthfully, I have asked myself if searching for and finding tiny wild trout was worth the effort. The answer is absolutely yes! The experience and the memories that have been etched in my mind are priceless.

We were able to find exactly what we were looking for and with temperatures topping out in the low 60’s, the hike was as comfortable as I could have hoped for. The clear cold headwaters coupled with the surroundings were like an image from a travel brochure. Every plunge pool and small slick run formed since the cradle of time held the jewels of the mountains, wild trout. Remaining hidden from the wild rainbows while stalking our prey was of utmost importance. In order to maintain proper drifts while hiding behind large boulders, I chose to use my 9 foot 4 weight Winston GVX Select rod with 12 feet of leader which allowed me to keep the fly line off of the water on most occasions.

In regards to fly selection, it was pretty much an educated guess. We rigged up two different types of presentations and we were able to find success with both throughout the day. A Mattress Thrasher in size 14 tied with an Olive UV dubbed body seemed right as an attractor pattern for the top fly. The dropper I chose was a fly that has saved many trips on various types of water, the “Little Red Bastard”. The fly got its name from requests from fellow fly fishermen “ you got anymore of those little red bastards?” The fly is pretty simple to tie, size 18 midge hook, red brassie wire body, peacock herl gills, and topped off with a fluorescent orange bead head. Don’t laugh, this fly has produced in at least seven different states that I can remember. My partner used a two nymph rig with a strike indicator to control the depth of the flies. A size 18 green Caddis larvae for the bottom fly seemed to be the trout’s favorite. I did find some natural green Caddis larvae under some rocks at the beginning of the day which means the trout were probably munching on these little morsels as they passed by in the biological drift of the stream. The great news was that we caught fish on all the patterns we chose and did not have to alter our plans in regards to pattern selection. That doesn’t happen very often in my experiences. At the end of the trip, Andy noted that while we were catching fish after fish, we had not lost or needed to change our flies the whole time. Though one of us did break off on the last cast. All said, I am not sure we could have had a better or more memorable day that didn’t include any kind of airlift or mountain rescue team. One definition, for me, of a successful mountain fishing adventure is to be able to walk out of the forest, find the truck, find the keys, then to drive home safely with no visits to the Emergency Room involved.

I am now back in the low country of the Miami Valley watching the creek rise as well as the temperature. Perhaps this will be the Spring when the Hendricksons start popping in late March and last all the way through April. It has happened before. Hope reigns eternal! As for now, the images of those Mountain Jewels will get me through.

Mayfly Motives

Sunshine spotlighting a cove in the stream

The “R” Word

I have put a lot of time in over the years striving to cast as well on the water as some of my mentors. It is still a work in progress. That being said, nothing is more disappointing than executing the perfect cast and drag free drift right through a rising trout’s window to the outside world only to watch Mr. Brownie slowly rise to your Mayfly imitation and then, at the moment of truth, he gives you the fin on his way back to the depths from which the monster came. In other words, the dreaded R word, Refusal. A guide in Wyoming said it best, “that would piss off the Pope.”

My Polar Cripple patterns are tied with the assumption that all rising trout are selective by nature. They all take a close look at a Mayfly before they commit to eating. This may not always be the case, but why take a chance with all that is on the line. Each part of my Polar Cripple Mayfly pattern has a purpose that has been inspired by personal experience and Mayfly Masters of the past and present. I can assure you, this pattern has greatly reduced the number of slaps in the face that I have experienced when that little pea-brained trout has caught me trying to fool him with less than a natural imitation

Ingredients

What follows are a few notes on the ingredients I use and why. Bake them all together and you have my best recipe for connecting with the most elusive and beautiful prey available, a rising trout. One disclaimer, if your skills at casting and maintaining a drag free drift are wanting, work on it. The perfect fly will never save an imperfect presentation.

Hook: TMC101- size to match the hatch

Gently bent to imitate the posture of an adult Mayfly that, for one reason or another, did not make it off the water. I have witnessed trout zero in on these distressed or crippled adults while completely ignoring their healthy counterparts. The rise seems to be slower and more deliberate, as if the trout knows there is no rush, this bug is not going anywhere in a hurry

Thread: Uni-Thread in color to match the Mayfly.

Tails: Pre 1972 Polar Bear Hair

I like very long tails to help with flotation and the natural sheen of the fibers covers me if the trout is taking that close of look.

Abdomen: Moose Mane

Trial and Error has allowed me to arrive at this point in regards to body material. Beautifully dyed Moose Mane is available in many natural colors from Nature’s Spirit. Durability, natural appearance of segmentation, and ease of use make this a key ingredient until someone shows me better.

Thorax: Hareline natural dubbing in colors to match the Mayfly.

Wings: Pre 1972 Polar Bear Fibers

Tied split wing with one wing up to allow the trout to see what is coming when he first looks up and out his window. This material is durable, natural, water resistant, and floats like a cork. I have found gray variant markers from Prismacolor that have allowed me to detail the wings and tails to match the Mayflies wings in regards to value.

Legs: Whiting Premium Hackle Fibers

High quality hackle feathers make a big difference in regards to appearance and flotation. I trim the hackle for proper affect in regards to the distressed posture a crippled Mayfly would exhibit while struggling in the film.

All Natural

I am particular about using natural materials whenever possible. There is no better imitation of nature than nature itself. Is all the detail necessary and important? I think most definitely it is. I do know these ingredients are more expensive and harder to find than synthetic materials that may work. I guess you have to ask yourself, how much would you have paid to catch that 20” Brown Trout of your dreams that said NO to your pattern that was hand tied in Sri Lanka? Just saying.

As always, thank you for your interest and support.

Mayfly Pattern Inspiration

Over the last 120 years or so, there have been countless numbers of American fly tiers that have studied, observed, and obsessed over a trout’s behavior in regards to the mayfly. It seems to me that the true innovators in regards to a mayfly pattern, identified and confirmed their theories on what they considered the most important part of their patterns. I have studied and had the good fortune to observe some of these tiers for the last twenty years and have come to the conclusion they either knew or know what they are talking about.

For the best view, I believe in standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before me and have tried to incorporate a piece of each of their ideas in my patterns. I am sure my patterns take longer to tie than most tiers. That’s OK, I am not, nor ever will be a mass production tier. Every part of my flies have a purpose and that is important to me.

The following is what I call my inspiration list or at least some thoughts on what I have gleaned from what I consider these masters of the mayfly.

Theodore Gordon:

Colors and texture imitated in fly pattern by using natural materials found in nature. Nothing imitates nature more effectively than nature. Quality hackle for legs and flotation. Observation of the trout’s world from above and around.

John Atherton & Matt Supinski:

Impressionistic art — movement and life created by color, shading, segmentation,value, etc.

Vincent Marinaro:

What a trout sees from below based on observation, study, and theory. Upright wings are the first impression the trout has of a drifting adult mayfly. Tails are used for flotation.

Kelly Gallup, Bob Linseman, Rusty Gates & Howard Parks:

Observations of different stages of mayfly hatches and discerning the most successful stage to imitate for the fly fisherman is many times a crippled imitation. Bent hook patterns developed and refined.

GEM Skues (English):

Size and color of mayfly critical elements in fly construction based on observations of the visual abilities of the trout. “I think, however, it should be the ideal of the sportsman angler to take his trout, where he can do so, by means of imitations,representations, or suggestions of its natural food presented in the conditions in which the trout is feeding on.”

The Long and Short of It All

New Focus

July, August, & September

Mad River Report and Forecast

Techniques and Fly Patterns

October, November & December

Fly Pattern Forecast

January

Tying Flies in Public

Tying Flies in Private

February

Testing Out New Fly Fishing Gear

Gear Prep & Maintenance

Taking Inventory on Flies

March

What to Expect

Patience

April

Nature’s Way

May

It’s Time!

Spring Creek Reunion

Mad River Report & Forecast

June

Father’s Day Trip

Mad River Report & Forecast

Foundations

Step One: Investigation & Discovery

Step Two: Samples

Step Three: Pattern Approval

Step Four: Gathering Materials

Step Five: Vice Time

Final Step: Inspection & Delivery

Winter is Here

Planning Ahead

Putting in the Work

Past, Present & Pie

Making Family My Business

Hooked on Summer

Past Experiences, Present Impact

Confession

On the Horizon

Ohio Winters

Mountain Tribs

The “R” Word

Ingredients

Hook: TMC101- size to match the hatch

Thread: Uni-Thread in color to match the Mayfly.

Tails: Pre 1972 Polar Bear Hair

Abdomen: Moose Mane

Thorax: Hareline natural dubbing in colors to match the Mayfly.

Wings: Pre 1972 Polar Bear Fibers

Legs: Whiting Premium Hackle Fibers

All Natural

Theodore Gordon:

John Atherton & Matt Supinski:

Vincent Marinaro:

Kelly Gallup, Bob Linseman, Rusty Gates & Howard Parks:

GEM Skues (English):

INFORMATION

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