With the fishing season over and equipment taken care of, I’ll wrap up another season with my annual Christmas shopping suggestions for the angler. I’ve checked with my friends in the tackle shops and have an estimated price range for many items mentioned. This column is the “clip and paste” on the fridge with certain items highlighted, as a sort of a hint.

But first we must extend a BIG THANK YOU to our sponsors, organizations and donors who have support us in keeping this column going this year. These include Deals 4 U, Eskape Anglers, Moncton Fish & Game Association, Fredericton Outfitters, Paul Marriner, Herbert Sheppard, and two anonymous donors.

I must also THANK my weekly contacts who are the real ones who make this report possible, as well as those who have submitted stories, photos and comments via e-mail.

With more and more ladies getting “on the water”, this might help the gentleman angler solve his Christmas shopping as well.

New in the last couple of years is the digital water thermometer. It clips on the vest, looks like a small pen, you point it at the water, click it and have the temperature instantly. A lot easier and quicker than the older models. I believe they run in the $30-$40 range.

For many of the following items, check with W.W. Doak and Sons (365-7828) in the Doaktown area, Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting (843-2481) in Blackville, Herb’s Fly Shop (843-6354) in Blackville, George’s Fly Shop in Renous (622-8226), Miramichi Hunting and Fishing (622-3071) in Miramichi, and Trout Brook Fly Shop (622-0676) on the Northwest for more detailed prices. A visit to Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers (386-6269) on Wentworth Street in Riverview is always fun. Drop into Chris Munn’s Fredericton Outfitters (450-4044) at 285 Canada St. in Fredericton (authorized Orvis dealer).

First the big items. Maybe a new rod may be in order. These could run anywhere from $100 to $1000. I like the Emery Streamside Rods. They offer a very good product at a reasonable price range $125 to $200. Streamside has a four-piece rod with its own case, which is ideal to carry on an ATV, walking a trail to a favourite pool, or packing to travel. They also have a very nice Streamside Elite, my favourite rod, that is a 10-footer, priced under $200, and it throws a very nice line. A nice 9-foot Streamside is the SS909 graphite with a five-year warranty. Eskape Anglers has a nice selection of Reddington Rods, and Fredericton Outfitters can get you the Orvis you want. If you want a rod especially made for you, contact Luc Gagne at his shop (L & G Fly & Rod) in the Edmundston, NB area at 111, Route 161, Clair (Caron-Brook) NB, E7A 1X8 (506)992-3008 or www.lgflyrod.com

Next look at waders (George Routledge has some nice Emery Streamside Compac in hip, chest along with the breathable. There are also the stocking-foot waders with the wading shoe, some with felt and studs, for both men and women, and neoprenes). Syd Matchett carries a line of Snobees which are a good buy as well, and very light.

Then consider reels. (Emery Streamside puts out a nice affordable Classic Cast Deluxe at $50 to $100, along with the LA 3000 Legacy models. I like the large arbor for quick reeling. This series will cost from $250-$300). Orvis also has a great line with a varying price range as does Reddington.

Rain suits: ($100), rain jackets ($35), rod cases where the reel stays attached ($35-60), vests ($30-$100) (Emery has a beautiful new vest with detachable sleeves and more pockets than you can count in its Streamside wear, as well as an adjustable Lady’s vest), landing nets ($20-$50) (Try to get one that will not scratch the eyes of the fish), Bug Jackets ($25-$40), and Inflatable fishing vests with a pull cord to inflate immediately in case the water gets too deep unexpectedly or slips in fast water ($150), and a new fly line.

Now for the “also” category. A new hat ($5-$20), polarized sunglasses ($15 -$25), pliers for removing the hook from the fish quickly and efficiently, not to mention protecting your own hands on from the fall hook bills (($10-$15), a new set of braces for the waders ($15), a good knife ($6-$10), or a really good one $60-70), tape measure preferably attachable to the vest ($5), thermometer and depth gauge (for the lake angler) ($10-$20) Fly boxes (plastic $10, aluminum $15-25), and a box with a dozen flies ($30).

Then there are the stocking stuffers. These include retractable clippers ($5), landing gloves ($8-$10), Gink and Xink for making the flies float or sink ($5), dry fly spray ($5), scents ($ 5-$10), glasses holders ($3), hook sharpeners ($3), leather man micro tools ($30-$75), and new felts for the waders.

For the reader there are angling books such as Wayne Curtis’ “Fly Fishing The Miramichi” or “River Guides of the Miramichi”, David Adams Richards’ “Lines On The Water”, George Frederick Clarke’s “Song of The Reel” and “Six Salmon Rivers and Another”, Lee Wulff’s many books especially on dry fly fishing, Michael Brislain’s “Bugging The Atlantic Salmon”, “The Main Southwest Miramichi River” book of coloured maps marking pools and open water ($25.00) to the coffee table books such as Gary Anderson’s “Atlantic Salmon: Fact and Fantasy” or “The Atlantic Salmon and The Fly Fisherman”, and Timothy Frew’s “Salmon: The Angler’s Guide”($30-$40).

There are “The St. Mary’s and Other Waters” by Charles Widgery ($13.95), “Recollections” by Clayton Stanley Stewart, “Stillwater Fly Fishing” as well as several others by Paul C. Marriner, including his latest (and updated) Modern Atlantic Salmon Flies, “A Little Thing I Tied Myself” by Don MacLean ($19.95), and “Rivers of Yesterday” by Mike Parker.

I must add that I have a book titled SALMON COUNTRY: New Brunswick’s Great Angling Rivers which sells for $45.00

There are also angling videos ($20-$40), fly patches to hold flies ($4), and line cleaners ($3-5). Don’t forget a measuring tape.

For the builder and tyer there are the rod building kits ($100-$150), salmon fly tying kit ($100-150), scissors, ($12-$30), bobbins (steel $6-$10, ceramic $15-$20), vices ($15-$200), and any number of fly tying materials from feathers, hackle, deer hair, capes, threads, yarns, head cement in a variety of colours, flash, from $2 to whatever, and boxes of 100 hooks ($6- $10, and doubles a bit more).

For the trout fishermen there are the lures ($2-$5), spinners ($1-$2), reels ($15-$20) and rods ($40-$100) and maybe a new creel ($10-$20).

Magazines: A subscription to, FlyFusion (based in Clagary) ($24.95 or “The Canadian Fly Fisher” ($18) (613) 966-8017 are also excellent choices.

Now for the angler who has everything, try a salmon fly broach pin with a classic pattern. These are good for hats, vests, or Jacket/shirt for both the male and female angler.

There are memberships in the Atlantic Salmon Federation which gives several glossy coloured magazines a year with excellent stories, not to mention that you are helping salmon conservation, memberships in one of the local salmon associations such as The Northumberland Salmon Protection Association, the Miramichi Salmon Association, The NB Guides Association, the N.B. Wildlife Federation which has been in existence since 1924, the Moncton Fish & Game Club, the Dieppe Fly-Tyers or other clubs in your area.

The Atlantic Salmon Museum in Doaktown has memberships ($25 or cheaper if one belongs to a local association) which includes visiting rights to the museum and its Hall of Fame as well as eight newsletters throughout the year which give the news and counts from the rivers. (See their adopt a parr program)

You might consider pampering yourself and your wife by booking a vacation on the river at a salmon club or lodge such as Ledges Inn (Doaktown), Wilson’s Fishing Camps, Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures, Red Rock Lodge, Metepenagiag Lodge, Country Haven Lodge, and any numbers of others. A day to a week might be out of this world in your own back yard. We book elsewhere, so why not at home!

Some of the fly tyers such as Dewey Gillespie, Jack Kitchen, Father Lynch, Jacques Heroux or Marc Madore will make up beautifully framed and mounted classic salmon flies, which are very classy in any room or office. As well, many of the angling shops mentioned above will put together Christmas Fly packages for you. They make a nice gift.

For the person who has everything, Mark Hambrook of the MSA suggests sponsoring a transmitter for a kelt heading out to sea for $500. The person to whom it is registered get updates about the fish every time it passes a code reader. It would be nice to track your own fish. (506-633-1781)

I hope this makes your Christmas shopping a little easier. I would like to thank all you have helped make this column the fun it has been. Until next season, plan to be “on the water”, and don’t forget to attend the annual 2010 Dieppe Fly Fishing Forum in Moncton (usually a Saturday and Sunday at the very end of March and/or start of April) 2012. This year’s event will be held at the Moncton Coliseum and is combined with the “Boat Show”. Check out the program at www.flyfishingforum.ca (and then click on either the English or French “Welcome/Bienvenue) It is a great way to get into the mood for getting back “on the water.”

AND a big THANK YOU to Terry Matchett of mightymiramichi.com and his staff particularly Stacy Underhill and Les McLaughlin who make this possible. We had a very successful season with numbers of subscribers approaching 1,200. The report on my website www.dougunderhill.com received 21, 500 unique visits and had 423,000 hits. This is not counting those who do not have a computer and had arrangements for a friend or relative to print off the report each week for them. WE have subscribers from across Canada, the US, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand. Thanks to all of you. Tell your friends for next season.

Thought for the Winter: “There will be days when the fishing is better than one’s most optimistic forecast, others when it is far worse. Either is a gain over just staying home.” ~Roderick Haig-Brown, Fisherman’s Spring, 1951

E-MAIL: (More tips on cooking corn)
Thanks once again for the great newsletter. I like the tips on stowing the gear and the great idea about the cooler corn. Let me add one more tip for the corn feast. Use a large jar, as tall at least as a corn cob, and fill it with the boiling water from the cooler or separately heated salted water. Next drop in a big slab of butter and let it melt on the surface of the water. Take out a cob of corn and plunge it into the water and when you remove it a perfectly buttered cob of corn every time. It is the best method for buttering corn I have ever seen. All the best for the winter. Keep those reports coming. I will be going down to the Hammond River to watch the fish spawning.
Andrew Giffin

Dear ASF Member: Looking for a great gift for the fisherman/woman in your family? Check out the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s Anglers Cache. On this page you will find old favourites like our signed and numbered prints as well as new and unique items like the ASF Toque or Hip Flask! Each item you purchase supports the conservation programs of the Atlantic Salmon Federation. Your Friends in Conservation,
The Atlantic Salmon Federation

Opening Day is only 164 days away. Start the count-down!

Merry Christmas &
Tight Lines Always,

DOUG

With only the Bartibog and Tabusintac Rivers open for two more days, there has not been a lot of angling activity.

When angling over for another year, most anglers simply chuck their equipment out in the garage or in the basement where it remains until next season. Wise anglers will take a few minutes to examine their equipment and properly prepare it for winter storage. This ensures a better start next year because the gear will be in top shape for another season.

First look at your waders unless you still plan to use them for some duck hunting. When you have finished with them, they should be thoroughly dried and stored in a cool dry place. Avoid the furnace room as high heat may cause cracks, producing an unpleasant surprise next spring. George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop in Renous suggests hanging them up side down, or if they are hung by the braces, that they barely touch the floor with no wrinkles in them. Putting some newspaper in the boot part will prevent moisture and mould from setting in. If the waders are the type without a boot, make sure they’re rolled rather than folded as creases will crack.

Next, the rod definitely should be taken apart if still together, or it may never come apart. Dry and wipe it down, removing dirt and dampness. Make sure the cork is dry, and then store it in a place with moderate temperature, and out of the way until spring. This ensures it doesn’t get other stuff piled on it resulting in breakage. A bit of parawax on the male end will make it fit better next year. This is a good practice several times throughout the season even.

Check guides to see if they need repair or that there is no fraying of the binding. If a touch up is needed, now is the time to get it done to be ready for opening day.

The line and backing should be reeled off, stretched, cleaned and dried. Then it can be coiled loosely and stored for next season.

To clean, use plain water or silicone to grease-clean it. Cortland puts out small pads which sell for about a dollar or two. These can do several lines. This helps against cracking. If the backing is over three years old, replace it.

This might save losing a nice bright grilse or salmon (not to mention the line itself) next season.

Routledge suggested taking the reel completely apart, letting it dry and cleaning all dirt from it. Then it should be given a covering of light oil that is heat resistant. He suggested, Singer sewing machine oil or a light gun oil. He cautioned against using WD-40 as it is a penetrating substance.

Next, empty the fly-boxes so flies and boxes can dry thoroughly. This will stop rusting and ruining the hooks as well as the metal boxes. Make sure the box is clean. Then organize the flies as you put them back with the spring streamers in one area or box, the larger flies for June and early July in another, the summer flies and smaller hooks for late July and August together and then the fall patterns. One might even put the open box in a Tupperware container with a couple of moth balls to make sure nothing eats the hair and feathers. Make sure everything is completely dry before sealing. Don’t forget the flies still on the vest or hat, or where ever you keep them while on the river.

The vest should also be dry, pockets emptied of debris and minuscule lunches, bottle tops, old fly dope containers and any other garbage. It may even be washed or dry-cleaned. Then replace all equipment making sure covers are tight on such bottles as gink or xink, dry fly sprays, fly dope, or scent etc. These can destroy a perfectly good vest. Don’t forget to put the polarized sun glasses and glasses-holders back in the vest so you have them next season.

Routledge suggested throwing away any leader that is no. 6 or 8 as it may rot. Losing a bright grilse next June is not worth the cost of a new roll. He said no. 10 and up, could be kept providing it is not too old.

Even the landing net should be dry and stored. If all of these simple things are done, it will put you in fine shape when the fever hits again next spring.

While out, take a trip to the upper stretches of your favourite stream. You make be lucky enough to see the salmon actually spawning.

Watch as the hen salmon uses her tail to dig her redd (a small bed in the gravel where she will deposit her eggs).

Then watch as she hovers over it, dropping eggs. You will probably see another dorsal fin zoom in next to her, as the male fertilizes the eggs by releasing his milt. It is nature’s miracle, and the future of the sport we love. And it is a great excuse to get even another trip “on the water.”

Now that angling is actually over, join a salmon conservation such as the MSA, or fly-tyers group in your area, and get involved over the winter. When you hit the water next spring, you’ll feel more a part of the whole process, and it’s a good way to further interest in the sport we love.

The Atlantic Salmon Federation located in St. Andrews, NB., have four good salmon journals a year which is good reading during the winter months. Check your local organization first as there may be a cut rate to join the ASF.

Be sure to drop into Eskape Anglers in Riverview for all of your fishing needs. Pick up a few early spring streamers and a few good stories from Bryant Freeman. (386-6269)

Continue to check out the bargains at Deals 4 U , not only for weekly groceries, but also for special events, especially those planning hunting trips and weekends at the camp. And don’t forget to stock up on their fine Cuban Cigars!

Moncton Fish / Game Annual Sportsman’s Dinner Announcement.
Sat Nov 26th. @ 7:00 p.m:  This is our Annual Fund raising activity, that allows us to continue our support for local youth, and wildlife/fish related activities. Contact Ron Cybulski  at rcyed@aol.com for more info.

All of these businesses and organizations support us, so let’s support them.

NEW IDEA: Just thought I’d include this e-mail I received. Anglers, campers, hunters and those who love corn may find it useful. I haven’t tried it yet, so judge for yourself…. Doug

The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob for a Crowd?

It’s Cooler Corn!
Am I the only person who hasn’t heard of “cooler corn”?

As an obsessive food nerd, you’d expect that I would have at least heard of it, but over the weekend I was blind-sided by the simple genius of this method for cooking loads of corn on the cob perfectly.

I was hipped to it while visiting my family in Maine. Short story: We like corn on the cob. And with eight adults at the table, that means a couple of dozen ears. We would have used the lobster pot to cook them all, but the lobster pot was busy steaming lobster.

Then my sister, a capable Maine cook with years of camping experience, says “let’s do cooler corn!” Before I can ask “what the hell is cooler corn?” a Coleman cooler appears from the garage, is wiped clean, then filled with the shucked ears. Next, two kettles-full of boiling water are poured over the corn and the top closed.

Then nothing.

When we sat down to dinner 30 minutes later and opened it, the corn was perfectly cooked. My mind was blown. And I’m told that the corn will remain at the perfect level of doneness for a couple of hours.

Turns out, Cooler Corn is pretty well known among the outdoorsy set, but for those of us who avoid tents as much as possible, it’s perfect for large barbecues and way less of mess than grilling. In fact, I may even buy another cooler just so I’m ready for next summer. Now that I’m in the know.

Thought For The Week: “The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” ~ John Buchan

HUMOUR: “If you’ve got short, stubby fingers and wear reading glasses, any relaxation you would normally derive from fly fishing is completely eliminated when you try to tie on a fly.” ~Jack Ohman, Fear of Fly Fishing, 1988

Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Wed, October 26, 2011

Salmon Summit says Atlantic salmon may be moving north
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Dr. Ken Whalen notes that southern Atlantic salmon on both sides of the Atlantic are in jeopardy, but also that adjustments are being made to climate change.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=778

ASF’s Jonathan Carr was interviewed on the Salmon Summit, and the video can be watched at:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=775

Genetically Modified Salmon Much in News Recently
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Genetically Modified Atlantic salmon have been the focus of a series of forums held across Atlantic Canada. While the focus has been on food issues, there are also concerns about the eventual impact on wild salmon populations. For one report:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=780

The financing of AquaBounty has also come under media scrutiny. The UK’s Guardian has one detailed article on the company hoping to produce the GM Salmon
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=781

Environment Canada internal records also say they are uncertain that they can keep GM salmon from harming wild salmon in the long term.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=776

ISA Found in BC Salmon say researchers, including UPEI
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The announcement by researchers that they have found ISA in Pacific salmon has been a bombshell, with repercussions spreading in both Canada and the USA. Check out this recent article on it:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=777

Irish Salmon designated as “Vulnerable”
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For the first time, the committee assessing wild populations in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland has designated Atlantic salmon as Vulnerable.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=779

The end of Atlantic salmon recreational angling season
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
On Oct. 31 the angling season ends on the Northumberland Strait rivers of Nova Scotia. Reports continue to come in that numbers of large Atlantic salmon returning to these rivers has increased this year, as the returns have for so many other rivers.

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To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

ASF’s Webworks is an updating service on the world of the wild Atlantic salmon. If you wish to be added or removed from the list, email asfwebworks@asf.ca

Dear Friends,
Our 29th Annual New York Dinner will take place on Wednesday, November 9th, 2011 at THE PLAZA.
This year, we will be honoring C. Austin Buck, Atlantic Salmon Federation Director, friend, angler and conservationist. We are anticipating a full house and a fun night which will include the always entertaining auctioneer Rock Fournier.
The Full Auction Catalog is available now with a selection of auction items that is really special including premium adventures in Mongolia and Labrador. Other lots include original art, state-of-art fishing equipment, exclusive trips for non-anglers, and many other unique items. Please take a few moments and review this spectacular catalogue and share it with friends who may not be able to attend.
We do welcome absentee bids; call us at 1-800-565-5666 or contact Kirsten by email: krouse@asf.ca.
Thank you for your support!
The Atlantic Salmon Federation

Next week I’ll also include the salmon/grilse counts for October 31.

Next week: The angler’s clip and paste Christmas shopping list.

Until Next Week,

DOUG

For the most part, another angling season is in the books.  Generally speaking, the last week of angling was tough fishing for most.  One exception was the Northwest Miramichi which, according to Syd Matchett, continued to fish well until the last day when the rain came.

A 26lb hen caught by Lisa Haldane on a #6 Green Slime at Ledges Inn in Doaktown on Wednesday, October 12, 2011

George Routledge said that the Quarryville and Blackville areas were very quiet with only the odd fish being caught.  That is not to say that anglers were not catching.  As always, there were places that fished well into the final day.

That aside, the 2011 season has to go down as one of the best years in a long, long time.  Catches were excellent and water conditions were almost perfect for the fish through out the season.  Even those who did not have great luck, had the opportunity to see a lot of fish.  There were also very good reports of big salmon being seen through out the season.  Count numbers are good, and on a reasonable par with last year which was also good one.  One wonders with the unusual amount of high water if many fish avoided the counting fences, making the returns even better than statistics show.

There are only a few rivers which remain open until October 29.  These are the Bartibog, Burnt Church and Tabusintac Rivers.  I have heard reports that the Bartibog was producing some very good angling with some limiting out.  Hopefully the rain today and Friday will not affect the water conditions too much, so anglers can get some more late-season catching, spending a few more days out and “on the water”.
__________________________________________________________________________
REMINDER: Please support the businesses which sponsor this report. They make it possible.

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and a very good selection of Cuban cigars to celebrate being on the rivers. Also check out their weekly specials.

Drop into Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on flies as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Redington Rod. Don’t forget that this is the home of The Carter’s Bug tied only the way that Bryant can tie it!  Pick up a supply of the Fall patterns while you are there.

__________________________________________________________________________

Thought For The Week: “I have many loves and Fly-Fishing is one of them; it brings peace and harmony to my being, which I can then pass on to others.”  ~ Sue Kreutzer

HUMOUR: “For the supreme test of a fisherman is not how many fish he has caught, not even how he has caught them, but what he has caught when he has caught no fish.”  ~ John H. Bradley

For your information…. Pour votre information…. (contributed by Jacques Heroux)

My name is Doug Smith, I am the owner of Streamside Canada Magazine. I would like to take this opportunity to offer your members the chance to view and read our publication free of charge. Streamside Canada can be found at www.streamsidecanada.com. The publication is free, and you can also read www.greatcanadiansportsman.com. Also, should you, or any of your members from the Fly fishing club wish to submit fly fishing editorial from Atlantic Canada, that would be great. The editorial can be forwarded to me at dougsmith2@cogeco.ca. Should you have any questions please feel free to send me an email.

Doug Smith
President
STREAMSIDE CANADA

NOTE: I believe that not just the Fly-Tying club, but all are invited by this letter which is why I included it in the column

__________________________________________________________________________

E-MAIL:

Doug,

A little note you may add at the final report for this year, if you wish. Eskape Anglers is proud to have assisted in bringing you Doug Underhill’s Miramichi Report. It was a good year for all! The assistance this report has given to the anglers was well accepted by those who came to Eskape to pick up supplies.

Remember to Dry your breatheable waders both inside and out to prevent mould from forming and causing a leak next spring. Take your rods apart, and wax the ferrules with paraffin Wax (a Christmas candle will suffice), then store in a dry place.

Eskape is open all year for fly tying supplies, Gifts, and fishing Supplies. The good Lord willing and the Creeks Don’t Rise, will see you next year.

Bryant

__________________________________________________________________________

Hi Doug,

Many thanks for these reports I truly enjoyed them. Now as a novice fly tyer I am set to begin my winter knitting. I plan to bring a number of fly tyers to the Eel Ground School this winter and introduce fly tying to some of the older students. Again thank-you. I am wishing winter away.

John Hawkes

__________________________________________________________________________

Doug: (Fr: Andrew Giffin)

I have a question regarding the flies of choice at the end of each report. When they report that the fishing was poor would it not be possible that the flies of choice were, for all intents and purposes, a bad choice? It seems as though there a very few flies of choice ever reported by the varying fishing establishments. I have caught many fish on flies that have never appeared on the flies of choice section while those that were relying on those patterns were going entirely fishless.

Last year on the Cains River, at the mouth of the Sabbies, I used flies that I know had never been seen by any of the fish in the pool and could not keep the fish from going wild for them. Meanwhile on the other side of the river, on the public side, fishermen were using the standard Ally’s Shrimp and white tailed green machines to no avail. I mentioned to more than a few anglers to put on a fly that they had never used before and would never think to use at that pool and they were then successful in landing a fish. I don’t believe that I am a great fisherman by any stretch of the imagination but I do think outside of the box with everything that I do and I use a good many flies that we used for trout out in the prairies when I lived there. I believe, that at times, the fish become so accustomed to seeing the same fly drift past their nose, especially those fish in places like the Sabbies pool where fish will hang for some time, that the patterns become like the furniture.

I am convinced that fishermen are, in large part, not being creative enough to understand that the fly that is the best for salmon has yet to be discovered. It is an imaginative process that takes much into consideration when making the choice of flies to use. I love your report on the river and am very pleased to see what kind of fruit has been born from the efforts of all who work toward a better fishery here in NB. I think that salmon fishing to NB tourism should be what Anne of Green Gables is to PEI. Keep the reports coming in. There are many of us that love to receive them on a weekly basis. Tell me more about advertising on your site for my site www.giffinartworks.com. Bye for now.

RESPONSE to the above:

HI Andrew: As the column evolved over the years (then for newspapers), a workshop specialist suggested that rather than saying what was “The Best Fly” it would be better to take a reading on what flies were being used. As you say, who can really say what the “Best Fly” is. Many have their own choices and theories, and as the fish are the only true experts (in an ironic way, as the flies they choose, are probably the ones they wish they had avoided). So hence, a conclusion was made that I would give the “choices” that anglers use, allowing each angler to judge for him or herself. Often, if an angler catches a fish, everyone wants to know what fly was used, and most then put that fly on their leader. If 100 anglers are using say White-tailed Green Machines and 75 fish are caught, while 10 anglers are using Blue Charms and 9 fish are taken, which is the better fly? I guess choosing the “perfect fly” is what makes angling so much of a challenge and so much fun. As you say, it is extra special when a person defies the odds, tries something different, and has success. Thanks for the e-mail and kind words. AS you very nicely put it, angling is sometimes thinking “outside of the box”. May we all “keep guessing”. Thanks for getting us all thinking. Keep up the excellent art work as well!

Cheers Doug

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Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Friday, October 14, 2011

Salmon Summit in France Concludes Some Populations Threatened with Extinction
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A major conference took place this week in France, bringing together the latest and most sophisticated research on Atlantic salmon at sea. It determined that many southern populations of Atlantic salmon are threatened with extinction. See notes from NASCO:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=770

Background to the Salmon Summit can be read below, including ABSTRACTS of scientific papers presented:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=764

RIVER NOTES Blog gives “end of season” perspective on 2011 salmon runs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ASF’s RIVER NOTES Blog looks at the overall Atlantic salmon returns for 2011, a season remarkable for many high returns of large salmon.
http://atlanticsalmonfederation.org/rivernotes/

Fisheries and Oceans To End Some Scientific Programs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A DFO memo outlines a variety of cuts related to a wide range of programs, some of them scientific in nature. Read details, and view video with further information on the cuts:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=771

US Aquaculture Policy Could Increase Escapes
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A study examining the potential impacts of the U.S. Government’s Aquaculture Policy warns that aquaculture escapes could increase dramatically, to as many as 35 million fish. Study suggests land-based operations. Read more:
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=769

Public Forums on Genetically Modified Salmon
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Announcement has been made of several public forums on genetically modified (GM) atlantic salmon, in various locations in Atlantic Canada.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=765

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

ASF’s Webworks is an updating service on the world of the wild Atlantic salmon. If you wish to be added or removed from the list, email asfwebworks@asf.ca

TWO MORE COLUMNS TO GO: “Storing equipment” and “The Christmas Shopping List”
Until next week,

TIGHT LINES
DOUG

As the season enters the final few days, there are good numbers of fish in the system.  Generally, the catching has been difficult in most places, but there are some exceptions, and water conditions have been good.  With the season closing for the majority of rivers by Saturday’s end, there are only a few which remain open until October 29.  These are the Bartibog, Burnt Church and Tabusintac Rivers.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling was moderate with some anglers hooking fish on Tuesday, while others were not so lucky.  Water conditions were good.  However, the fish are there to be caught, but at this time of year, they have turned their attention to other matters.  Even the anglers who were not having success this past week have been moved into the reflective mode, pondering how great a season it has been.

Flies of choice were General Practitioners, Ally’s Shrimps, Same-Thing-Murrays, Undertakers, Bugs, Bear Hairs and some Bombers as well as Maribous.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said they had been catching fish with 12 caught Tuesday and about the same number on Wednesday, including a 26-pounder.  The Cains River was also fishing well Wednesday.  Water conditions were good and evenings were the most productive.

Flies of choice were Green Slimes, Christmas Trees, White-tailed Green Machines, and Ally’s Shrimps.

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said there were a lot of fish around Blackville and on the Cains, but they were not taking well, with only the odd one being caught.  Water conditions were good.

Flies of choice were Ally’s Shrimps along with a variety of other Shrimps such as Ally’s Cascades, Tippet Shrimps etc, L. T. Specials and General Practitioners.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said there were lots of fish in the river, but they were not taking well, with only a few being caught.  They were some big salmon with one weighing in at 38 pounds.  Water conditions were good, but slightly on the high side.

Flies of choice were Ally’s Shrimps, Ally’s Cascades, General Practitioners, Undertakers, Preachers, and Same-Thing-Murrays.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said there were lots of fish around, but the fishing was poor.  Wednesday’s angling produced one salmon.  Water conditions were good.
While at George’s, pick my book Salmon Country and Paul Marriner’s new book Modern Atlantic Salmon Flies for sale.  Both are $45.00

Flies of choice were the Fall patterns such as Ally’s Shrimps, GPs, L.T. Specials, White-tailed Green Machines and Shady Ladies.  Generally, the smaller the fly, the better the results.  Some anglers were even requesting size 10 hooks which George does not sell.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported some fish being caught, but generally in no great numbers.  There were not as many anglers out to report as many have shifted to the hunting mode this time of year.  Water conditions were good.

Flies of choice were White-tailed Green Machines, Shady Ladies and a variety of the traditional Fall patterns.

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi had a good report.  He summed up the Fall season as one of the best since he started operating his shop.  Two anglers had hooked and released eight salmon, while Alvin Bell was still doing well.  Fishing seemed to be better in the evening.  Syd said that although Chatham Ironmen catcher Jon Saunders has caught some fish this year, he heard that Saunders has decided to move into a special brand of Fishing: Ear-Piercing.  Rumour has it he is turning salmon flies into earrings, and to demonstrate how easy it is, he pierced his own ear with one on Monday in the wind, and is debating on whether or not to open a franchise.  Syd hopes he does not as he will lose a great customer!  There was no word on the special fly Saunders used to penetrate his ear on Monday.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Shady Ladies, White-tailed Green Machines, Ally’s Shrimps, General Practitioners and L.T. Specials.  (and maybe The Saunders’ Earring)

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said there were lots of fish around, but they were not showing or taking.  Her six ports had produced only two grilse on Tuesday.  The fish had started to spawn, and perhaps that was the main thing on their minds.  Water conditions were good.

Flies of choice were Maribous in all sizes and colours.

So hopefully we do not get large amounts of rain on Friday which could make the final day a wash-out allowing anglers their finals couple of days “on the water”.

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REMINDER: Please support the businesses which sponsor this report. They make it possible.

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and a very good selection of Cuban cigars to celebrate being on the rivers. Also check out their weekly specials.

Drop into Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on flies as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Redington Rod. Don’t forget that this is the home of The Carter’s Bug tied only the way that Bryant can tie it!  Pick up a supply of the Fall patterns while you are there.

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Thought For The Week: “Even eminent chartered accountants are known, in their capacity as fishermen, blissfully to ignore differences between seven and ten inches, half a pound and two pounds, three fish and a dozen fish.”  ~William Sherwood Fox, Silken Lines and Silver Hooks, 1954

HUMOUR:  “Lo the angler. He riseth in the morning and upsetteth the whole household. Mighty are his preparations. He goeth forth with great hope in his heart – and when the day is far spent he returneth, smelling of strong drink, and the truth is not in him.”

From The Atlantic Salmon Museum:
It is time once more to say goodbye to all of our little salmon fry! Two weeks from now, October 15th, we will hold our annual fish release. Come to the museum & grab your lunch from our BBQ, watch (or participate) in the lumberjack competition and take part in our fish release!  Wrap it all up with 10% – 50% off in our gift shop! If you are unable to make it keep an eye on our website for the photos to be uploaded. http://www.atlanticsalmonmuseum.com/id53.html

Until next week,
Tight Lines,
Doug

As we move into the final weeks of the season for most rivers, there are positives and negatives. On the plus side, there are very good numbers of fish being report across the system, although not many fresh ones. The negative is that in some places they are not taking well and are hard to hook. The water is also high in some places.

Jay Fargher and guide Andre Anthony from the Ledges in Doaktown, NB on the Main Southwest Miramichi River with a nice MSW salmon

The counting fences at both Cassilis and Millerton are both reporting very few fresh fish each day, and some days none. Yet, anglers are catching some darker fish with sea-lice.

MSA Hatchery Manager Mark Hambrook said the hatchery staff will be starting the hatchery spawning process next week. They will be doing this on alternate days and only in the mornings. If anyone is interested in observing the process, please contact the hatchery at (506)622-1781. There is no admission fee.

W. W. Doak and Sons in Doaktown said angling was a sort of mixed bag this week. Some spot were having very good angling with some limiting out, while other spots were stagnant. There was a good mix of salmon and grilse, and most of the fish being caught were dark, but the rain had them moving and active. The Doaktown area received a few inches of rain, but it was reported that above them, areas received more.

Flies of choice were all over the map with some having success on Shady Ladies, White-tailed Green Machines, and Undertakers on nos. 6 & 8 hooks while others were using traditional Fall patterns such as General Practitioners, Ally’s Shrimps, Copper Killers and Rusty Rats. Besides big and small, and light and dark, some were also using Dry Flies and Bombers.

Derek Munn of Ledges Inn in Doaktown and Mountain Channel in the Rapids area said they were having good fishing. Anglers had caught three on the Cains River Wednesday, and over the previous five days guests had hooked 80 fish. There was a good mix of salmon and grilse with a lot of the salmon in the 12-20 pound range, and a few 20-plus pounds. He said the water had risen about a foot at Ledges, although the Cains could use a tad more. He expected good fish until the season’s end.

Flies of choice were General Practitioners, Green Slimes and Pot Belly Pigs ((an English fly with yellow and orange and Jungle Cock eyes)

Herb Barry Sr. of Herb’s Fly Shop on the Station Road in Blackville said there were barrels of fish around, but they were not taking well. Anglers were however, seeing lots, especially some very good sized salmon. He had watched one evening and saw about 25 salmon all over 10 pounds, but they were very dark. The water had come up a foot on Tuesday and was reported holding on Wednesday. He was expecting it to drop off by the weekend and was looking for some good angling then.

Carol Fargher with her first salmon at Ledges in Doaktown, NB on the Main Southwest Miramichi River

Flies of choice were General Practitioners, Ally’s Shrimps, Tippet Shrimps, L.T. Specials and Red Squirrel Tails with orange butts.

Curtis Miramichi River Outfitting in Blackville said anglers were seeing lots of fish, but were only catching a few. Water levels were up and on the rise Tuesday.

Flies of choice were None-of-your-Business, along with Christmas Trees and Ally’s Shrimps.

George Routledge of George’s Fly Shop at the Mouth of Renous in Quarryville said angling was pretty slow there with about 2 or 3 the total of a day’s catch. The water was a tad high, but the numbers of fish around was very good, and went for all rivers in the system. There were some fresh fish with sea-lice, but they were dark. Anglers were seeing 35-40 a day jumping, but they were not interested in taking a fly. While at George’s, pick my book Salmon Country and Paul Marriner’s new book Modern Atlantic Salmon Flies for sale. Both are $45.00

Flies of choice were No. 8 Shady Ladies, nos. 6 & 8 White-tailed Green Machines, along with Ally’s Shrimps, General Practitioners and L. T. Specials on hooks no bigger than no. 6.

Jim Laws of Miramichi Hunting and Fishing in Newcastle, Miramichi reported angling as being a bit slower this week. The water levels had come up and probably would raise more with the rain Wednesday. However, anglers were seeing good numbers of fish even if they were not catching as many as they might like. A decent mix of salmon and grilse was being reported.

Flies of choice were General Practitioners, Ally’s Shrimps, L.T. Specials and still some White-tailed Green Machines.

Ledges Inn guest Val Antonucci with a nice 18 lb salmon taken a Maribou Shrimp in the Doaktown area

Syd Matchett of Trout Brook Fly Shop on the Northwest Miramichi said angling was good with a decent mix of salmon and grilse being reported. Jon Saunders had caught a grilse on Friday, and Alvin Bell had caught three fish on Friday, one on Saturday and two on Monday. The water was up, but still fishable.

Flies of choice were Black Ghosts, Ally’s Shrimps, L.T. Specials and Red-butt Bear Hairs

Debbie Norton of Upper Oxbow Outdoor Adventures on the Little Southwest Miramichi said they were still doing some catching. John Wood from Ottawa was the Senior Member in camp and the high man with a 21-pound salmon. Dianne Wenham of Bass River, NS hooked a 20-pound salmon. There were also some grilse caught, but angling was a bit tough as the water was high after the rain. She was hoping for it to pick up by the weekend and expected a strong finish to the season.

Flies of choice were Maribous, General Practitioners and Mickey Finns

So with a long weekend ahead, nicer weather in the forecast and good numbers of fish around it is time to be “on the water” while throwing in a little “Blast ‘n Cast”.

__________________________________________________________________________
REMINDER: Please support the businesses which sponsor this report. They make it possible.

Check out Deals 4 U in Miramichi for your grocery needs, and a very good selection of Cuban cigars to celebrate being on the rivers. Also check out their weekly specials.

Drop into Bryant Freeman’s Eskape Anglers in Riverview to stock up on flies as well as any other equipment you may need such as a Redington Rod. Don’t forget that this is the home of The Carter’s Bug tied only the way that Bryant can tie it!  Pick up a supply of the Fall patterns while you are there.

__________________________________________________________________________

Thought for the Week: “Men and fish are alike.  They both get into trouble when they open their mouths.  ~Author Unknown

HUMOUR: “The two best times to fish is when it’s rainin’ and when it ain’t.” ~ Patrick F. McManus

CONDOLENCES:  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of John MacLennan who passed away this week after a long battle with cancer.  He was my long-time friend and angling buddy, and I will miss him dearly!

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Atlantic Salmon Federation News
Thursday, September 29, 2011

Perfect Atlantic salmon conditions
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This week’s ASF RIVERNOTES mentions that conditions are nearly perfect in many of the Atlantic salmon rivers, and fish are continuing to make their way upstream to spawning areas. Read details.
http://atlanticsalmonfederation.org/rivernotes/

A posting by CHARLES GAINES on the remarkable salmon returns
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Charles Gaines posted an article Are Atlantic salmon on the way back? in the Orvis News. It focuses on the increase in large salmon numbers this year. Well worth reading.
http://www.orvisnews.com/FlyFishing/The-Return-of-the-Atlantic-Salmon.aspx

Salmon being tracked within inner Bay of Fundy – video & article
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ASF has been a partner in an inner Bay of Fundy tracking program that last week released adult Atlantic salmon. The research goal is to discover how many return to their river of origin. There is both a written article and a VIDEO clip on the release of the fish, with ASF’s Jonathan Carr interviewed.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=762

Court Convictions in Newfoundland

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In Newfoundland, the courts take seriously the rules regarding fishing and poaching. Read the latest set of convictions, since the beginning of August.
http://asf.ca/news.php?id=763

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To keep track of breaking news on wild Atlantic salmon, use the Atlantic Salmon Federation’s presence on Facebook. Log in, search for Atlantic Salmon Federation, and click “like”.

ASF’s Webworks is an updating service on the world of the wild Atlantic salmon. If you wish to be added or removed from the list, email asfwebworks@asf.ca

Ledges Inn guest DR. Scott Boley with a 22lb salmon taken on a Green Slime.

From The Atlantic Salmon Museum:
It is time once more to say goodbye to all of our little salmon fry! Two weeks from now, October 15th, we will hold our annual fish release. Come to the museum & grab your lunch from our BBQ, watch (or participate) in the lumberjack competition and take part in our fish release!  Wrap it all up with 10% – 50% off in our gift shop! If you are unable to make it keep an eye on our website for the photos to be uploaded. http://www.atlanticsalmonmuseum.com/id53.html

Have a HAPPY Canadian THANKSGIVING!

Until next week,
Tight Lines,
Doug