OFF NL 2009 - Ozark Fly Fishers
Transcription
OFF NL 2009 - Ozark Fly Fishers
Nov/Dec 2009 Meetings November Meeting: No meeting this month because of the Bennett Springs CNR Outing. See you next month. December Meeting: KNOTS AND FLY TYING This has become a great night for Ozark Fly Fishers. Some of the best tiers in the club will be tying their favorite pattern. This is a great time to pick up those little pointers that will improve your tying. Also, learn new knots or refresh your skills tying that old knot. Any other ideas or information that might be made available can be given to Steve Antonic at [email protected] New Member Orientation On Thursday, December 17th at 6:00 p.m. just before the General Membership Meeting, we will have a New Member Orientation Meeting. Board members and committee chairs will walk through everything the club has to offer and answer any questions. If you are new to the club or are curious about anything OFF, please join us at 6 p.m. at Queeny Park. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the 11 th day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must be submitted by November 11th. Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. Ozark Flyfishers Holiday Party December 9th by: Ted Calcaterra [email protected] This coming December, the Ozark Flyfishers will host a Holiday Party remembering 2009 while enjoying pictures, fly fishing videos, and memorable conversation. The event will be held on Wednesday December 9th at Lone Wolf Coffee Company starting at 7pm. Lone Wolf Coffee Company is located on the south side of Clayton Road, just west of Kehrs Mill Road. There will be light refreshments while food and alcoholic beverages will be available for sale. In order to help make this event a success, I am asking that you send any pictures you'd like to share with fellow Ozark Flyfishers. You can do this by one of two ways. First, you can email me pictures at [email protected] or secondly by mailing me a CD to my home address listed in our club directory. We hope to see everyone there! Lone Wolf Coffee Company 15480 Clayton Road Ballwin, Missouri 63011 Phone: 636-527-7027 Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 2 OFF Outing November 28th August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. Join fellow OFF members at Lake 28 at the August A Busch Memorial Conservation Area on Saturday November 28 to work off some of that turkey and to keep your arm limber. Meet at Lake 28 parking lot 8-9am for doughnuts and coffee, while supply lasts, so come early. If the weather is really nasty I will post something on Yahoo on Friday before. Contact: Mark Thalhammer 636-928-6242 [email protected] St. Louis Area Winter Trout Program The MDC Winter Trout Program opens November 1st and runs thru January 31st. MDC will be stocking several area lakes. Their stocking hotline number is: 636-300-9651. They usually stock the various lakes every couple weeks. They stock five lakes at the August A. Busch Conservation Area, just south of Hwy. 40 & 94, South of St. Charles. Lakes 22, 23, 24 are catch 'n keep and lake 21 and 28 are C&R. Other lakes in the St. Louis area can be found by going to the MDC website http://www.mdc.mo.gov/ and searching for “Winter Trout Program” FYAO ~ Montauk C&R Outing 2/5 - 2/6/2010 Join us for the first outing of 2010, to close out the C&R season and to kick-off the New Year. We have reserved 8 streamside cabin units for February 5th and 6th (Friday and Saturday). Cabins include kitchen facilities. Rates for the cabins are listed below, based on double occupancy. Make checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers and send them to me at the address below. Please have all checks to me no later than January 1st and include an email address on your check so I can send you a confirmation or you may call me to confirm receipt. Please call me if you have any questions. You can check this website for info about the cabins: http://www.missouritrout.com/montauklodge/facilities.html Cabins 22 23 24 25 (lower units 1bdr) 2 nights $217 Cabins 30 31 32 33 (upper units 2bdr) 2 nights $226 Mark Thalhammer 27 Morning Wind Ct. St. Charles, Missouri 63304 [email protected] 636-928-6242 Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 3 Fly of the Month by Earl Schenberg SCUD: Tied by Malcolm Royce at O.F.F. meeting 10/22/2009 Materials: HOOK: 2457 or 200R, sizes 10-16 THREAD: To match body. Center picture uses red thread BACK: Scud back or spotted thin skin. (Option) put a strip of flashaboo under back. RIB: Clear monofilament, sz.006 or 007 depending in the size of fly. BODY: Muskrat or Ostrich. Can use many other materials as long as it is buggy looking . When done tying, pick out body fibers to look like legs, then trim to correct length. Color choices: olive-gray, tan, pink, orange. HOW TO TIE: Lay down a thread base, Wrap on some .002 lead wire. (6 to 8 turns is enough). Tie in the ribbing and back material. Dub body on thread and wrap to eye forming a tapered body on the thick side. Bring back material over the top and secure by counter wrapping the rib, evenly spaced, to eye. Finish head, whip finish and cement. Pick out the dubbing to form legs and trip to shape. Scuds should be lightly weighted either with lead under the body or with a bead head. Antenna and tails are optional; Marabou hen hackle fibers, or antron; See picture above. HOW TO FISH: In Streams, tail water and rivers, present the fly with the shallow nymph or wet fly swing presentations; remember, scuds are present in weedy, slow-water stretches. In lakes, use an intermediate line and a slow retrieve. The 2457 hook is curved and represents a resting or drifting scud. The 200R hook is straight and is used for a swimming scud. Match your presentation to the hook style. Scuds are shrimp-like fresh-water crustaceans. They can occur in huge numbers in lakes and in slack water sections of rivers. When present, they offer trout a delicious morsel that is hard to resist. Photos By: Earl Schenberg Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 4 Membership Membership Report By Dave Haas (Database & Directory) Last reported membership on 10-21-2009 New memberships since 10-21-2009 Total memberships as of 11-9-09 325 3 328 A year ago 351 Annual gain or (loss) (23) Welcome the following new members Bill & Janet Bolin St. Louis, MO (7%) Renewals for 2010 40 (12.2%) Renewals a year ago ( Nov 11, 2008) 48 Elmer Buente St. Charles, MO Pat Nelms St. Louis, MO Membership Renewal—Second Reminder By Dave Haas Renewals for 2010 are beginning to come in following the article and renewal form in last month’s newsletter, but many of you still need to renew! Don’t miss out on the cost savings of a timely renewal. The Timely Renewal period ends on January 1; after that date Individual, Senior, and Family memberships will each cost an additional $5.00. Of course, there are about as many reasons to renew your Ozark membership as there are members, and some of those reasons were spelled out in last month’s newsletter, but here again is a brief list: Annual Banquet in January All-Day Program with Dave and Emily Whitlock in February Annual Barbecue and Casting Event Annual Catch-and-Release Outing Camaraderie and Friendship Conservation Activities (Stream Team 31) and Advocacy Fishing Outings Free Member Classes Free Video Loan Library Outstanding Programs Promote Fly Fishing Raffles and Auctions If you wish to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U. S. mail you must check the appropriate box on the renewal form. Of course, if you have not provided us with your e-mail address you will continue to receive a paper newsletter. Take advantage of the Timely Renewal rate by filling out the Membership Application attached to this newsletter and mailing it in with your check a.s.a.p., or bring your checkbook to the December meeting and renew at that time. Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 5 Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Renewal / Application PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Date ______________________________ Name __________________________________________________________________ Spouse/Family __________________________________________________________ Number & Street ________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________ Phone Numbers: Home _______________________ Work ______________________ Cell ______________________ E-Mail Address _______________________________ If you want to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U.S. mail IN ADDITION TO an e-mail reminder when the monthly club newsletter appears on our web site, check here. _____ Other Club Memberships (check all that apply) Conservation Federation of Missouri _____ Smallmouth Alliance _____ * Federation of Fly Fishers _____ Trout Unlimited _____ * F.F.F. members who are Illinois residents should request membership in the Southern Council on their F.F.F. membership application or by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Dues (check only ONE item below) TIMELY renewal (January 1st or BEFORE) Individual--$25 _____ Senior (65+)--$15 _____ Commercial--$50 _____ Family--$30 _____ Corporate--$250 _____ NEW member, or LATE renewal (January 2nd or AFTER) Individual--$30 _____ Senior (65+)--$20 _____ Commercial--$50 _____ Family--$35 _____ Corporate--$250 _____ (NEW members joining in October or later are automatically renewed for the following year.) Mail this form and a check payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to: (PLEASE do NOT attach check to form.) Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Committee P.O. Box 440181 Saint Louis, MO 63144 Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 6 E-Mail Addresses for Long Casts Dave Haas Presently, all Ozark members receive the annual Conclave issue of the Southern Council FFF newsletter, Long Casts, through the United States Postal Service. FFF members receive all four issues each year. Since mailing printed copies is extremely expensive the Southern Council is changing the delivery system for Long Casts. In the future it will be available only via the internet and the printed copy will be discontinued. In the interest of maintaining the privacy of our members, the Ozark Board of Directors has prohibited the Membership Committee from providing e-mail addresses of our members as requested by the Southern Council. Ozark and FFF members who wish to continue reading Long Casts may do so at any time on the Southern Council web site at http://southerncouncilfff.org/ There is also a link on the web site allowing members to sign up for e-mail delivery of Long Casts as each new issue becomes available. Fishing Trip Report by Al Bourisaw Have you ever decided to take a trip to a fishery in Missouri or another state (country) and not have the slightest ideas what to expect? Wouldn’t it be nice to ‘pick the brain’ of someone who has fished that lake, stream or river that you are planning to fish? In order to help members of Ozark Fly Fishers get some idea about other fisheries, a data base of members fishing trips will be maintained on the web site. This data base, however, will only be helpful if members contribute to the information. There are only a few questions that can easily be answered. In the Ozark Fly Fishers web site menu under ‘Fisheries’ there is a link to the Fishing Report page. On the page is a link to a form that can be completed and e-mailed to me. I will compile the information, change it to pdf. format and post it on the web site. If you have pictures, send them to me via e-mail at [email protected]. I recently posted an August trip to the South Fork of the Snake. Check it out and see how easy it can be. Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 7 Education By Malcolm Royse Go Fish Trout Program The winter trout program is underway. There will be programs at 2 sites, Forest Park and Busch Wildlife Lake1. The program will be held Nov. 21 and Dec. 5, from 12:30 till 2:30. We need casting instructors to help the kids cast a fly rod. The rods will be provided by the Go Fish Program. There will also be a fly tying class for youth being held in Jan. and Feb. This is a new part of the program and we will be teaching kids how to tie flies [wooly boogers], then if the weather holds, we will take the kids to one of the trout lakes to let the kids catch a fish or 2 with their fly. I will post the dates and times when they are set. If you can help, please call Malcolm Royse at 636-329-1504 or email at [email protected]. Members Only Class The December class will be held at Powder Valley, 6:30 till 9:00, December 1, 2010. We will be tying crackle backs and big uglies. We will post a list of materials on the web site and yahoo, this way you can bring your stuff or if you do not have materials, we will have the club materials. The November class was all about midges, and Al did a great job, with be help of Steve, the camera man. Mill Creek Stream Team 2010 Schedule The 2010 schedule will be as follows; April 17, July 24, and October16. We will meet at the Hen House, 7:00 a.m. on each trip and head out after breakfast. Thank you to all of you who helped this year. If you have not been on one of these stream team events, you are always welcome. There are 3 teams and we can all use your help. St Louis County Educational Classes We have many classes being offered through the parks department at Queeny Park. The classes are listed in the calendar in the newsletter and on the web site. As I suck at typing, please check out the dates and times in the calendar. We will need help with the tying classes, so if you can help keep your Thursday nights free during January and February. Safety Pin Flies We are still collecting safety pin flies for youth programs which we get involved with. You have done a great job and we want you to know the kids love the flies. There are many programs planned for the winter and spring, so please keep up the good work. You can bring your flies to the meeting and give them to Malcolm or Earl. Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 8 Conservation By Wallis Warren Clean Energy and Clean Water? When protected, rivers serve as visible symbols of the care we take as temporary inhabitants and full-time stewards of a living, profoundly beautiful heritage of nature.” — John Echeverria One of the most discussed and debated issues today is that of affordable energy. While we need electricity, oil and gas in our lives, the methods used to obtain this energy can have far reaching effects. As our domestic use and production increases, we need to consider the impacts extracting, harnessing and transporting these sources have on our fish, wildlife and landscapes. Many of the areas desirable as energy sources are also prime habitat for fish and wildlife, which requires a balanced approach between energy development and protection of fish and wildlife. Two sources of energy often discussed have specific concerns to water quality: coal and natural gas. The term ‘Clean Coal’ causes a great amount of controversy ~ many consider the term to be an oxymoron due to the enormous environmental devastation current mining practices cause to mountains and streams, destroying entire ecosytems. However, the term ‘Clean Coal’ is being promoted in reference to potential improvements to power plants. While any consideration given to minimizing or removing the environmental degradation of coal production and use is critical, there are by-products of coal based electricity to also take into consideration. Missouri’s electricity is primarily generated from coal fired plants, which produce coal ash as a by product. Coal ash is the collective term for the solid remnants left over from burning coal, which have toxic elements – arsenic, chromium, lead, mercury and many others – that can wreak havoc on the environment and human health. The danger of coal ash has been substantially documented; however the oversight of its disposal is not regulated by the Federal government but is left to individual States to oversee. This in itself should be a matter of concern, given the enforcement capabilities (or lack thereof) which have been recently demonstrated by DNR’s e-coli fracas at Lake of the Ozarks over the Labor Day holiday. In many states – at ponds, landfills and pits where coal ash gets dumped – seepage of these toxic elements has poisoned water supplies. Here in the St Louis area, the local coal plants store coal ash in ponds, the most recent numbers available are from a 2005 study showing each plant had stored: Labadie plant – 294,000 tons Mehlville plant – 111,000 tons Festus plant – 146,000 tons AmerenUE has quietly purchased over 1700 acres to build a 400 acre CCW (coal combustion waste) landfill on river bottom land near their Labadie plant on the Missouri river. The threat to our water system is enormous, and even though there are sites that are regularly maintained, the safety and maintenance record of Ameren is questionable. To consider increasing coal use without consideration and reduction of the pollution, waste by products and unconscionable mining practices cannot be a responsible choice. Natural Gas is another energy source that is extensively used in Missouri, however some methods to extract and store this form of energy use enormous amounts of water for the process. Hydraulic fracturing involves blasting a solution of water, sand and chemicals underground at very high pressure, opening cracks in the rock to release natural gas. The solutions used in this process have included toxic chemicals such as arsenic, hydrogen sulfide, mercury and VOC (volatile organic compounds) benzene, toluene, and zylene. Once the fracturing is complete, most of the water is expelled and stored in pits or transported for disposal, however the rest remains underground. Livestock and fish have been killed with contaminated water from this process, as well as contamination to drinking wells. One area slated for natural gas development in the Marcellus Shale geographic formation in the northeast, which also includes some of the country’s top trout areas. Without proper management, water contamination will increase with development into new regions. Since 2005, the process of Hydraulic Fracturing has been removed from meeting the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act which increases the risk of polluting underground aquifers supplying drinking water and which are connected to surface water fisheries. Legislation is being considered to remove the exemption to the Safe Drinking Water Act and require disclosure of what chemicals are being used in the process to help ensure the quality of water at risk. (FRACT – HR2766/S1215). Continued on next page Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 9 Continued - Clean Energy and Clean Water? LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) is natural gas that has been converted to liquid form. There are two methods to vaporize natural gas: open and closed loop systems. Millions of gallons of water are used for the op en loop process which can destroy a significant amount of aquatic life, while closed loop systems have a minimal impact by comparison. There are many layers to the energy issues facing us today – these are only a few aspects to consider. Many renewable energy options carry concerns as well, but these are simply a few details to illustrate the complexity of the situation. There is no single solution, however there are options available that will not only provide us with the resources we need to live our lives, but also to ensure we will protect our fish and wildlife as well. For additional information: http://www.fedflyfishers.org/Default.aspx?tabid=5095 2010 Orvis Fly Fishing Photo Contest – enter your photo and help save a river! Orvis is supporting American Rivers’ work to protect and restore the nation’s rivers through a new, online photo contest. Submit your favorite fishing photo and you could win a $1,000 Orvis Gift Card or complete a Helios Fly Rod Outfit and be featured on the cover of a future ORVIS catalog. http://fishphoto.orviscontests.com/contest.html?contestId=1 Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night By Larry Carli The first annual Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night was held on Oct. 24 at Wild Acres Park Gym. Sixteen tables were in attendance. Everyone had fun and we made some money for the club to use toward our future Conservation and Education efforts. I would like to thank Patti and Patrick Hummert for their tremendous help, expertise and silent auction items. Patti’s daughter, Melissa and her friend, Carly, ran the concession stand and did an admirable job. Sandy and Rob Halamas (who are not even members of our club) were involved in phone registration and made the centerpieces for the tables. Our judges for the evening were Earl Schenberg, Mike Krueger and Steve Garnett. They did a wonderful job and there were few problems in the scoring. Steve’s wife, Susan, also helped as a runner. Steve Antonic did a great job selling 50/50 tickets and handling the sound system. We had plenty of help with the cleanup especially Tim Ernst and his wife, Kim. Our emcee for the evening, Art Ryan, did a great job as he always does. Vicki Swederska contributed baskets for the raffle as did my wife, Donna, who also contributed a lap quilt for the silent auction. Stu Keck contributed a really nice fly rod for the silent auction. It is because of these people and those club members who were in attendance that we can have successful events like this. If I have forgotten to thank anyone it is because of my failing memory and I apologize Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 10 OZARK FLY FISHER’S ANNUAL BANQUET AND SILENT AUCTION Saturday January 23, 2010 Crowne Plaza St. Louis-Clayton 7750 Carondelet, 63105 Cash Bar, Silent Auction begins at 6:00PM Dinner begins at 7:00pm You have four choices of entrees: Steak - $35.00/person White Fish -$31.00/person Vegetarian Pasta - $31.00/person Chicken - $31.00/person Please make checks payable to OZARK FLY FISHERS Please fill in information at bottom and mail to: Steve Antonic 5612 Greenton Way St. Louis, MO 63128 Member’s Name:____________________________________________ Entrée:_____________________ Guest’s Name:_______________________________________________ Entrée:______________________ Guest’s Name:_______________________________________________ Entrée:______________________ Guest’s Name:_______________________________________________ Entrée:______________________ Upon receipt of money, your tickets will be mailed to you. Ozark Fly Fishers Nov/Dec 2009 Page 11 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events November 3 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Midges (Level 1) November 7 Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) November 13 – 14 Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing (Contact Russ Hill) November 26 No Monthly Meeting December 1 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Cracklebacks December 17 Monthly Meeting - Fly Tying and Fishing Knots January 5, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Emergers (Level 2-3) February 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Terrestrials (Level 2-3) February 5 -6, 2010 FYAO outing – Montauk (contact Mark Thalhammer) March 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Crawfish (Level 3) July 10, 2010 Current River WQM & Outing – (Contact Mark Thalhammer or Scott Darrough) August 20 - 21, 2010 Montauk Summer Outing (Contact: Mark Thalhammer September16,17 &18, 2010 Taneycomo outing (contact Mark Thalhammer) St. Louis County “Gone Fishin” Program Ozark Fly Fishers have announced their 2010 series of fly fishing classes through the Saint Louis County Parks Department 'Gon Fishin' program. All classes are taught by experienced anglers of the Ozark Fly Fishers. Some classes have quota's and advanced registration must be made. Other classes do not have a quota with tickets purchased at the door. Introduction to Fly Tying Thursdays, January 7, 14, & 21 and 28, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $40.00/4 sessions, Queeny Park Community Room, Limit 30 Fly Fishing Missouri’s Trout Parks Monday, February 1, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $6.00 Queeny Park Community Room Intermediate Fly Tying Thursdays, February 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $40.00/4 sessions, Queeny Park Community Room, Limit 30 Best Missouri Flies Monday, February 22, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $6.00 Queeny Park Community Room Reading the Water for Trout Tuesday, February 23, 2010 7:30 PM Cost $6.00 Queeny Park Community Room Fly Fishing Techniques Thursday, March 4, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $6.00 Queeny Park Community Room Fishing Nymphs and Wet Flies Tuesday, March 9, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $6.00 Queeny Park Community Room Introduction to Fly Fishing Mondays, April 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2010 7:30 PM Cost: $40.00/4 sessions Queeny Park Community Room, Limit 30 Intermediate Fly Casting Thursdays, May 6, 13, 20, 2010 Time - TBA Cost: $25.00/3 sessions Tilles Park, Lake Limit 25 Officers: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster: Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis Ozark Fly Fishers Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 440181 St. Louis, MO 63144 Nov/Dec 2009 Page 12 October 2009 October Meeting Small Stream Tactics and Techniques Small streams are some of the most difficult but also the most rewarding places to fish. While they may not consistently produce the lunker fish of bigger waters, they often produce our most memorable fish. The techniques for successful small stream fishing are not that much different than those applicable to medium or larger rivers. The problem comes in understanding the subtle differences and the execution of those techniques. In this program , Norm Crisp of STREAM SIDE ADVENTURES will share with you the tactics they employ in fishing our small but sparkling gems streams. Norm Crisp is the owner and head guide of STREAM SIDE ADVENTURES, a guide service permit by the National Park Service and the Forest Service for the upper North Platte River Valley of Wyoming and the Missouri Ozarks. Norm has over 40 years of fly fishing experience from around the US and the world including 27 states, New Zealand, Morocco, Russia, Spain, Denmark, Belize, the Bahamas and Chile. Norm has caught 24 different species or sub-species of trout and salmon from their native range and been award the Wyoming CutSlam Certificate, complete the California Heritage Trout Challenge by catching all of California’s native trout species and one of only 26 people to be awarded the Federation of Fly Fishers CutCatch Certificate. Norm has been featured presenter at the British and Danish Fly Fairs, Federation of Fly Fishers International Conclave and has presented seminars through out the United States. Norm has written several articles about fly fishing for trout and his travels in search of trout, appeared on local and regional TV and been featured in several newspapers articles. In addition to his fly fishing experience, Norm brings a unique educational background to his programs and guide service. Norm has been awarded advanced degrees in both Fisheries Biology and Water Resources Engineering. Norm has authored or co-authored numerous scientific publications dealing with water quality, environmental decision making and the use of midges for water quality assessments. President’s Message by Mike Swederska Sr. The Southern Council Conclave is now over. What a fun time had by all that attended. As we found out by attending. What a great time we have been missing. I highly recommend that other club members make the trip next year. If you would like to know more about the Conclave experience don’t hesitate to ask me. If you did not attend the last general meeting Wallis Warren was nominated for Conservation Director of the Ozark Fly Fisher for two more years. Mark Thalhammer was nominated for Outings Director of the Ozark Fly Fishers for two years. Larry Carli is the nominating committee chair handling this year’s election. If you have any other member that you would like to see nominated. Please get a hold of Larry Carli. The Trivia Night is almost here. Look for the flier and get your reservations in. If you didn’t know, Larry Carli is running this fundraiser for the club. This will be the first fundraiser for the Ozark Fly Fisher’s besides the Banquet to ever take place. The club is looking to raise funds to help with the yearly operating cost incurred by its annual sponsored functions. The hopes are that pressure will be off the banquet for it’s only source of income besides member’s dues. The club is hoping to have full participation from all its members’ friends and family on trivia night. I participated with the group that just did the WQM on Blue Springs. The club had a very good turn out and the work was completed in short order. I had magnets made for the side of my truck a couple of years ago with the clubs logo and stream team 31. I like to display them on every stream team project I participate in. As club president I am very proud of our club and what it has been doing for stream team. Several participants on the Blue Springs last operation asked about the signs. I now have the prices and sizes for those who are interested please contact me. I am sure that everyone going on the Bennett Springs catch and release outing has already started to tie. Right? Just a reminder that winter is just around the corner and the bugs are going to get smaller. I have started to tie the old winter stand bys but this year I am going to dabble in some new patterns. I hope to see all the normal faces of each year and some new ones. Don’t forget that there is no general meeting in November because of this outing. We will hold a short meeting at the Sands Inn during the outing that Saturday night. Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 2 1st Annual Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night to benefit OFF conservation and education efforts Emceed by Art Ryan $$$ Cash and Prizes $$$ Soda and snacks provided; participants may bring their own. When: Saturday, October 24th, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. Doors open at 6:15 P.M. Where: Wild Acres Park Gym 2500 Ashby Road Overland, MO 63114 Fee: $15 per player / $120 per table of eight Mulligans available: 5 for $8 Register your 8-person team with: Sandy at 314-965-7456 or email her at [email protected] Call for Volunteers The first meeting of the Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night steering committee was held last week and I am overwhelmed with the details. Patti and Patrick Hummert are invaluable since they have held four trivia nights for the Casting for Recovery retreats. Sandy Halama is an enthusiastic supporter of Ozark and an avid trivia player who is also greatly involved. However, we are in need of lots of volunteers if this night is to be a success. We will need people to help with registration, soda, snacks, 50/50 raffle and lots of other jobs. Please contact us if you can help on that night, October 24th. Thanks. Larry Carli 618-659-1579 [email protected] Patti Hummert 314-477-9319 [email protected] Sandy Halama 314-965-7456 [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 3 Ozark Flyfishers Holiday Party December 9th by: Ted Calcaterra [email protected] This coming December, the Ozark Flyfishers will host a Holiday Party remembering 2009 while enjoying pictures, fly fishing videos, and memorable conversation. The event will be held on Wednesday December 9th at Lone Wolf Coffee Company starting at 7pm. Lone Wolf Coffee Company is located on the south side of Clayton Road, just west of Kehrs Mill Road. There will be light refreshments while food and alcoholic beverages will be available for sale. In order to help make this event a success, I am asking that you send any pictures you'd like to share with fellow Ozark Flyfishers. You can do this by one of two ways. First, you can email me pictures at [email protected] or secondly by mailing me a CD to my home address listed in our club directory. We hope to see everyone there! Lone Wolf Coffee Company 15480 Clayton Road Ballwin, Missouri 63011 Phone: 636-527-7027 Last Call For November Bennett Spring Outing By Russ Hill th It looks like another crowd of OFF-ers so far planning to attend our 18 annual opening of the winter catch and release season at Bennett Spring Nov. 13-15. As this is written early October, we still have some rooms available. By the time you receive this newsletter I will probably have turned the reservations in to Sand Spring for room assignments, so if you decide to join us at the last minute, please call me first to see if we can still get a room. We have been able to in the past. Look for details in previous newsletters. If an extra person stays in your room at the last minute, please use the honor system and settle up at the office. Remember, Sand Spring does give us a break by charging us the off-season weekday rate instead of the week-end rate. Room assignments should be mailed late October or early November. TAKE NOTE: Bennett Spring and Montauk are open for catch and release on MONDAY also! If this appeals to you, call Sand Spring when you get your room assignment and see if you can get a room for Sun. night, also. Their number is 1-800-543-3474. Also the restaurant will be open for breakfast on Friday morning. The new hours are: Friday, Saturday 7am till 6pm(then close for our banquet) and Sunday 7am till 2pm. Remember, you’ll need a $7.00 Trout Permit available everywhere Mo. hunting and fishing licenses are sold. Questions? or last minute room call Russ Hill @ 314 275 2673. No need to press “1” for English. Reservation forms can be downloaded from previous 2 newsletters. Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 4 Taney 2009 Report By Mark Thalhammer Wow!, huge, feisty fighters, healthy, beautiful colors, perfect weather; These are just some of the adjectives that I heard last month on the Taney outing. In September, twenty of your fellow OFF members assembled in Branson, Missouri, for three nights and four days of GREAT fishing. Yes, some even chose to tease Lake Taneycomo’s huge browns in the dark fog of night….oooh spooky! Going to a tailwater fishery is always a risky adventure as it is impossible to predict when they will be running water…but on this outing….the powerhouse daemon looked down on us and said, “These are Ozark Fly Fishers, we must be kind to them.” If someone would have asked me to write the generation schedule for our outing I could not have done as well. When we arrived on Thursday, we went directly to the dam to check things out. We found two units running and most people fishing the outlets. Mel B. was the first OFF member that we encountered and by all accounts he seemed to have drawn first blood…both by catching the first bow and by catching himself. After a quick hook removal we went to Lilley’s to make sure all was in order and as expected everything was shipshape. On Friday, we woke up to a nice batch of pancakes - mmmm mmmm good, and headed up to the dam to find zero water running; perfect for wading from the cable down to the lower reaches of the trophy area. Dave H. and Dennis S. set out in Dennis’s boat while Earl S. and Miles B. embarked on a drift boat adventure with Darrel Lumburg from River Run Outfitters as their guide. Friday night Brian Shaffer gave us a great talk. He was supposed to talk for twenty-five minutes on the ins and outs of fishing Taney but he managed to keep everyone glued to their seats for more than two hours. Brian was very informative and entertaining and he came bearing gifts…bags and bags of WAPSI products, hackle, dubbing, indicators….thanks Brian, it will be put to good use. Saturday morning we arrived at the trophy area to two units running which proved to be a lot of fun for those willing to wade out onto the flats across from the rebar hole. The water there was wide and fast and reminded me of fishing on some of the larger rivers out West. On Saturday, The Lilley’s treated us to a catered lunch by Danna’s, the best BBQ in the state, and to everyone’s surprise – they brought real silverware and checkered table cloths…were we spoiled or what! It was a surprise to see Phil and Marsha Lilley at the shelter setting things up for our lunch because the last we had heard they were in Texas visiting their first grandson. Congratulations, and thank you for treating us to a delicious lunch. The BIG FISH AWARD took place during our lunch break. The #1 BIG FISH AWARD went to Bill Todd for catching a documented beautiful 18 in. 3 lb. bow at outlet one. The #2 BIG FISH AWARD went to Mel Bagley for drawing “first blood.” After lunch, Phil found time to go out on the water with Bob Z. and he gave him some pointers. When Bob finally made it back to the parking lot he was sporting a big jack-o-lantern grin because Phil showed him the secret to catching trout. Now you understand grasshopper. The guys that were up late tying and lying, well… apparently it wasn’t all lies as Bill L. and Jerry K. were seen fishing the same fifty yards of water with the same red ???? fly all day. After wading past them a couple times I had to ask why they hadn’t moved… answer…don’t go to find fish when you are on fish. I guess a secret fly helps! Saturday night many of us met at the Fish House for dinner. Branson has so many fine eateries that it was hard to pick one. Everyone seemed to enjoy the slow pace of a sit-down restaurant after the fast action on the water. It will be difficult to top this outing next year but I would like to try. One thing that made it such a good outing is the great group of guys and gals that attended. OFF members can always find a way to have a good time. The other thing was the hospitality of Lilley’s Landing. Lilley’s has been a long time sponsor of OFF. On this outing they definitely showed why they are the place to stay on any trip to the Branson area. If you missed the outing this year and don’t think you can wait until next year Phil has told me that he is running a Fishing Buddy Special -- during the months of November through February. Stays include the nights of Sunday through Thursday and cannot include Friday or Saturday nights weekdays only. For 2-3 people. They pick the rooms you stay in. $29 per night. In exchange, each person is required to post a fishing report on their forum at OzarkAnglers.Com within 24 hours of returning home. The report should be as detailed as possible for the reader's benefit. Free registration on the forum is required. Reservations must be made via email to Phil Lilley at [email protected]. Blackout dates: Thanksgiving Day and the week of Christmas, December 24 - January 2, 2010. . Be sure to tell them you are an OFF member. See outing pictures on the Yahoo group or website. Thanks everyone for a great week end. Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 5 Casting Games – FFF Southern Council Conclave By Bob Temper As we have for many years, Ozark Fly Fishers sponsored the Jerry Clark Memorial Casting Games at the FFF Southern Council Conclave in Mountain Home, AR. The set up crew (Aimonette, Antonic, Bagley, Bourisaw, Schenberg Temper, and Zagar) arrived at the Baxter County Fairgrounds at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. We retrieved the four inch plastic pipe from the off site storage facility and erected three overlapping rectangles that are the base for the casting ponds. Two pieces of heavy plastic sheeting are laid over, then tucked under the pipe to form a three section rice patty pond that measures 18 feet by 60 feet. Add water, four casting targets and a blow up fish to complete the process. Next to the ponds we marked off a 100 feet range for the distance casting. We finished in time for all of us to hit the local BBQ place for lunch and story swapping (fishing lies). The games took place 1 – 4 pm on Friday afternoon in a constant 15 mph breeze with gusts to 30 mph.. Each contestant was given a tub of flies provided by OFF members for participating. It takes a minimum of six OFF members to run the games. The best of three attempts at the distance determines the winners and five casts at each of the four target rings provides an accumulated score for accuracy. First and second place trophies were presented in men, women, boys and girls categories prior to the Friday night auction. This year several OFF members were st nd winners. Brian Flinchpaugh was 1 in men’s accuracy, Russell Wall was first in Men’s distance and Vicky Swederska was 2 in women’s distance. After the Saturday banquet, the set up crew was joined by the Hummerts, the Swederskas, and Scott Darrough to dismantle the pond. Sunday morning it was returned to the storage unit until we do it again next year. We hope you will join us at the conclave next year – put the first full weekend in October on you calendar. Stream Team # 31 Current River Stream Team Saturday, October 31, 2009 10:00 a.m. This Halloween come and explore the haunts of some real creepy-crawlies! It is that time of the year when we will be conducting all four parts of the monitoring process—this includes macroinvertabrates, stream discharge, visual survey, and water chemistry. Your help is needed and will be greatly appreciated. When we monitor the macroinvertabrates, a true “creature feature” is promised. Remember it is not a requirement to have taken the Stream Team trainings in order to help out. Trained individuals will be on hand and will be eager to answer any questions and explain details relating to the Stream. Mill Creek Stream Team Due to flooding on Mill Creek, The Mill Creek Water Quality program, planned for October 10, 2009 has been rescheduled for November 7, 2009. We will meet at the Hen House at 7:00 a.m. and car pool from there. Nature wins this round We will do a macro inspection at site one and chemical, visual and flow at both sites. I hope to get to the site by 9:00 a.m. and be finished by noon. We will then be off to fishing and fellowship. Please call Malcolm Royse at 636-329-1504 or [email protected], if you can help. Remember that we take all comers, we have a lot of fun. Stream Team continued on next page Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 6 Stream Team (continued) Blue Springs Stream Team th The Blue Springs Stream Team met on Sept 26 and completed the monitoring and some trash pick up before the rain set in. Thanks to all who participated. Membership By Kevin Miquelon NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION: th On Thursday, December 17 at 6 p.m. – Queeny Park – just before our regular Membership Meeting – we will hold a New Member Orientation. Members of the board and various chairs will be available to discuss all of the different things that the club has to offer. If you are new to the club or just want to find out more, please join us. All are welcome and none are obliged. NAME TAGS: Don’t forget to wear your OFF Name Badge at every meeting! It is very helpful, with more than three hundred members, for people to give a quick glance at your name badge and see who you are. Lots of effort goes into making the badges and bringing them to the meetings, so please make an effort to wear yours. If you don’t have one (basically, you lost yours), then let us know and we will replace it. Dave Haas has a number of name badges in his possession and would like for everyone to “grab and go” with them. Also, bonus tickets to the raffle are an added incentive if you are wearing your name badge. Thank you in advance for your cooperation! FLY TYING NIGHT: Each month, the Lone Wolf Coffee Company (southwest corner or Clayton and Kehrs Mill roads in Ballwin) hosts a Fly Tying Night in the Blackhawk th Room. All skill levels are encouraged…all are welcome and none are obliged. Tuesday, October 20 will be our next event…we start around 6:30 and quit when we can’t stand it anymore. Hope to see you there. Membership continued on next page Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 7 Membership continued Membership Report By Dave Haas Last reported membership on 9-9-2009 New memberships since 9-9-2009 Total memberships as of 10-11-09 A year ago (October 9, 2008) Annual gain or (loss) Welcome the following new members 324 1 325 Dennis R. Martin & Family Dardenne Prairie, MO 337 (12) (3.6%) Membership Renewal for 2010 By Dave Haas Renewal time is here again--time to renew your membership in Ozark Fly Fishers. Being a member of Ozark is a great way to participate in our club’s efforts to promote fly-fishing and conserve and protect our public fisheries, and you surely don’t want to miss out on any of the outstanding programs and outings planned for 2010. The annual banquet on January 23, and the all-day meeting with Dave and Emily Whitlock in February are not to be missed, and planning for the 2010 line-up of outings is well underway. If you haven’t participated in these outings in the past, make plans to do so next year. It’s a great way to meet fellow club members and the fishing is usually good. Perhaps you might want to participate in some of our free classes for members on various aspects of flyfishing or take advantage of our free video loan library. Also, many of our members feel that the camaraderie and friendships developed within the club are one of the best benefits of membership in Ozark Fly Fishers. Dues amounts remain the same as in the past, but please remember that because of our two-tier dues structure you can save money by renewing your membership before it expires on January 1. If you procrastinate until January 2 or later your renewal will be considered late and will cost an additional $5.00 for an Individual, Senior, or Family membership. Please remember that if you wish to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U. S. mail you must check the appropriate box on the renewal form, otherwise you will be informed by e-mail when the newsletter appears on the Ozark web site if you have provided us with your e-mail address. WE ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO GIVE UP THE PAPER COPY AND ACCESS THE NEWSLETTER ON THE WEB SITE BECAUSE THE COST OF PRINTING AND DELIVERING THE PAPER NEWSLETTER NEARLY EQUALS THE MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FEE. DON’T PROCRASTINATE! Take advantage of the timely renewal rate by filling out the membership application found elsewhere in this newsletter and mailing it in with your check a.s.a.p. PLEASE FILL OUT THE RENEWAL FORM AND WRITE YOUR CHECK NOW! As an alternative, you can bring your checkbook to our next meeting on October 22 and renew at that time. MEMBERSHIP IN OZARK IS ONE OF THE BEST BARGAINS OF THE YEAR. Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 8 Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Renewal / Application PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Date ______________________________ Name __________________________________________________________________ Spouse/Family __________________________________________________________ Number & Street ________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________ Phone Numbers: Home _______________________ Work ______________________ Cell ______________________ E-Mail Address _______________________________ If you want to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U.S. mail IN ADDITION TO an e-mail reminder when the monthly club newsletter appears on our web site, check here. _____ Other Club Memberships (check all that apply) Conservation Federation of Missouri _____ Smallmouth Alliance _____ * Federation of Fly Fishers _____ Trout Unlimited _____ * F.F.F. members who are Illinois residents should request membership in the Southern Council on their F.F.F. membership application or by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Dues (check only ONE item below) TIMELY renewal (January 1st or BEFORE) Individual--$25 _____ Senior (65+)--$15 _____ Commercial--$50 _____ Family--$30 _____ Corporate--$250 _____ NEW member, or LATE renewal (January 2nd or AFTER) Individual--$30 _____ Senior (65+)--$20 _____ Commercial--$50 _____ Family--$35 _____ Corporate--$250 _____ (NEW members joining in October or later are automatically renewed for the following year.) Mail this form and a check payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to: (PLEASE do NOT attach check to form.) Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Committee P.O. Box 440181 Saint Louis, MO 63144 Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 9 Fly of the Month by Earl Schenberg Dry Wooly: Tied by Jerry Kniepman ( 09-24-2009) O.F.F club meeting Materials: Hook TMC 100 Sz.10 to 20. The one shown is Size 18 Thread: Red Uni-thread sz 8/0 or equivalent. Body: Red Flashabou Can be green, orange, brown, yellow or any other color you like. Hackle: Furnace hackle, sized 1 1/2 to 2 times gap. Instructions: Lay down a uniform thread base Attach hackle, shinny side up, by the butt and then Flashabou. Wind Flashabou to front and stop one hook eye back. Palmer hackle sparsely to front, whip finish and cement. It is that simple. How Fished: This is a very popular fly that can be fished dry, wet, skipped, just under the surface or any combination. All methods are effective and it is a go to fly for many fisherman. Related Story: Jerry and Bill Leslie were fishing this fly between chutes 1 and 2 at the Tanycomo outing last month and between 12 and 7 pm it is reported that they took over 100 fish. They tried other patterns and sizes and only this fly in size 18 worked. They said their arms were sore and quit because they were just to tired to continue. Some story you will have to check it out with them. The Dry wooly is one of the flies that can be associated with the Crackle Back. A fly that was invented and tied by the famous Ed Story, founder of Feather-Craft a local St. Louis Fly shop and supply for primarily fly fishing but everything out doors related. The pattern first appeared in his fly manual from the early 1980s In the text he explained how he developed the fished his “Crackle Back” in the early 1950s Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 10 Nearby Places to Trout Fish for Those Who Don't Like to Fish by George M. Bohigian This article is dedicated to the newbees who are just starting out fishing together, or long time trout bums who are catching hell from their spouses for fishing too much. My wife and I fished the White River in Arkansas in mid September. We stayed at Gaston's White River Resort http://www.gastons.com/ We drifted and wade fished with a great fly fishing guide, Frank, who teaches fly fishing. He refined my micro roll mend. I asked him my favorite question for guides. “Besides presentation , rank the three most important factors in choosing a fly.” He said size, shape and then color. Most guides agree with these prioities. Always go first to a smaller size fly if you are changing flies. We had a grand time. We were catching Rainbow trout 12-15 inches about every five minutes. As good as it gets. I used a five weight fly rod with a bright micro jig 1/64 oz as an attractor with good action. Then I tried a small # 23 zebra midge. Used 6x fluorocarbon with a six foot leader with small BB weight and a strike indicator at four feet, almost fishing off the bottom. I then switched to a dry foam rubber Grasshopper casting near the bank with good results. Water was clear and level. The temperature was in low 70's, very little wind and overcast but pleasant. My wife used a spin rod with a small gold spinner with a single hook with even better results. We kept a few to have them smoked at the Smoke House http://www.smokehousemarket.com/ I would recommend Gaston’s Resort , though a little more expensive, to people who normally do not like to fish for trout. Also, I would put on the list: 1.Rockbridge/Rainbow Trout Lodge http://www.rockbridgemo.com/ This is the best place for families with children. Nice dining room. 2.Westover http://www.westoverfarms.com/index.html 3.Wind Rush http://windrushfarms.com/ -in that category of "nearby" defined as within 5 hours drive of St. Louis. Do not forget our Missouri trout parks. We are the only state to be blessed by these types of public trout parks. 4.Bennett Springs http://www.mostateparks.com/bennett.htm http://www.mostateparks.com/montauk.htm 5.Montauk 6.Maramec Springs http://www.maramecspringpark.com/maramec/index.html 7.Roaring River http://www.mostateparks.com/roaringriver.htm People who do not normally fish would be delighted because of the ease of catching, surrounding beauty and other amenities they have to offer - just to relax. Read a book, walk a trail or just take a nap after lunch in one of the dinning rooms of our state parks. Other places within 4-5 hours drive from St. Louis are the Lake Taneycomo /Branson area. Shopping and shows. 8. White River Lodge Bed and Breakfast/Branson http://www.whiteriverlodgebb.com/ 9. Lilley’s Landing on Lake Taneycomo http://www.lilleyslanding.com/ 10. River of Life Farm on the North Fork of the White River http://www.riveroflifefarm.com/ If have you read down this far, then a gem of a restaurant in St. James is Sybill’s - about a mile north of I-44 off the St. James Missouri exit is the place to have fine dinning http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/210/1067192/restaurant/Missouri/Rolla/Sybills-StJames As Walter Cronkite would say "And that's the way it is." The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the 11th day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must be submitted by November 11th. Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. Ozark Fly Fishers October 2009 Page 11 FYAO ~ Montauk C&R Outing 2/5 - 2/6/2010 Join us for the first outing of 2010, to close out the C&R season and to kick-off the New Year. We have reserved 8 streamside cabin units for February 5th and 6th (Friday and Saturday). Cabins include kitchen facilities. Rates for the cabins are listed below, based on double occupancy. Make checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers and send them to me at the address below. Please have all checks to me no later than January 1st and include an email address on your check so I can send you a confirmation or you may call me to confirm receipt. Please call me if you have any questions. You can check this website for info about the cabins: http://www.missouritrout.com/montauklodge/facilities.html Cabins 22 23 24 25 (lower units 1bdr) 2 nights $217 Cabins 30 31 32 33 (upper units 2bdr) 2 nights $226 Mark Thalhammer 27 Morning Wind Ct. St. Charles, Missouri 63304 [email protected] 636-928-6242 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events October 14 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program –volunteers needed October 18 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program - volunteers needed October 17 Winter Chili Tie In - Marlin’s Club House The Flies of Winter (Contact Earl Schenberg) October 22 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm – guest speaker Norm Crisp (Streamside Adventures) October 24 Trivia Night (Contact Larry Carli) October 31 Current River Water Quality Monitoring – Current River/ Tan Vat (Contact Scott Darrough) November 3 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Midges (Level 1) November 7 Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) November 13 – 14 Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing (Contact Russ Hill) November 26 No Monthly Meeting December 1 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Cracklebacks December 17 Monthly Meeting - Fly Tying and Fishing Knots January 5, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Emergers (Level 2-3) February 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Terrestrials (Level 2-3) February 5 -6, 2010 FYAO outing – Montauk (contact Mark Thalhammer) March 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Crawfish (Level 3) September16,17 &18, 2010 Taneycomo outing (contact Mark Thalhammer) Ozark Fly Fishers Officers: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 440181 St. Louis, MO 63144 October 2009 Page 12 Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster: Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis August 2009 September 2009 September Meeting In This Issue Fly Fishing for everything but Trout. Greg Stoner, MDC, will be our Speaker at the September meeting on September 24, 2009 at Queeny Park Community Room at 7:00pm. Greg Stoner is an “all species” angler – doesn’t matter as long as it pulls back! Greg enjoys fly fishing and fly tying. His favorite target species with a fly rod include bass (especially if they are hitting topwater) and crappie. September Meeting President’s Message OFF Calendar Announcement 18th Annual C & R Stream Team #31 Education Trivia Night Project Healing Waters Membership Report Fly of the Month FFF Winter Chili Tie In Random Thoughts Calendar Winter C & R Form Officers 1 2 2 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education through Fly Fishing The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 2 President’s Message by Mike Swederska Sr. The 2009 Conclave is almost upon us. After attending the FFF out in Loveland last July, I am making it a point to get to this Southern Council Conclave. You should try to attend whether you are a member of the FFF or not. The OFF will be running the Jerry Clark Casting Games from 1 pm to finish on Friday. Our all day speaker from two years ago will be one of three big names this year at the SOC Conclave. Bob Clouser is one of the guest celebrities that will be giving seminars, tying classes casting classes threw out the conclave. The other big names to attend will be Capt. Conway Bowman and Stacy Lynn. Vicky and I plan to stop by and say hi to Bob. We hope to see lots of OFF members at the conclave. With the seasons changing going into fall I start to get drawn over to my tying vice. It is the time to start looking into your used up fly box and start getting ready for winter catch and release. If you are like me, my flies are spread all over the place - the house, truck, SUV, office desk, my rod bags and my travel bags and wader pockets. I plan to start slowly consolidating and replenishing with new fresh flies. We have the Trivia night coming up. If you are not aware of this event, please check the calendar in this newsletter or our web site for the date of the event. This is our first ever Trivia night to raise money for our club. The plan is to have a fun night while raising funds to help with covering the cost to the club for outings, meetings, education and conservation. Our hopes are to raise this extra cash from people outside the membership along with any members that would like to attend the Trivia night. Past President Larry Carli will be asking for volunteers from the club to help out with light duties at the trivia night. I personally am not good at trivia but Vicky and I will be their doing whatever is needed to help out that night. As most may already know, Vicky and I just got back from Colorado and Wyoming. As I learned more about the invasive species that attack our wild trout and their habitat, I am asking all members to start making it a habit to clean all your equipment after every trip even here in Missouri. We need to do our part in stopping the spread of whirling disease and rock snot. I will not get near our precious wild trout streams such as Blue Springs, Mill or even any of our trout parks without cleaning all of my stuff. I have always cleaned my fishing equipment in the past but now I make it a point to clean my wading stuff also. Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar Starting in September, Ozark Fly Fishers club activities can be found on the web site. A special link will be found to connect the member to the club calendar. The calendar will be similar to the one found on the Yahoo Group, but should be easily accessible to all members, not just those that belong to the Yahoo Group. To add dates to this calendar contact Bill Leslie who will serve as a clearing house for all activity dates (e-mail: [email protected] or phone: 314.398.1468). In order to avoid conflicts, Board members and directors should check the calendar before scheduling activities. Ozark Fly Fishers 18th September 2009 Page 3 Annual Catch And Release Party Plans By Russ Hill Second call for the November 13-14-15 opening of the winter catch and release season at Bennett Spring. Time is fleeting. Many have already made their reservations, with requests for particular room locations or neighbors. As rooms get booked, it gets more difficult to juggle these requests, so your best bet is to reserve early. Basically this is the LAST CALL, as the next newsletter doesn’t come out until late October. The reservations may already be turned in by then. As this is written early September with temps in the 80s, the thought of cooler weather fishing sounds pretty good. We still have all classes of rooms available, but they start to go pretty fast “as the days dwindle down to a precious few.” Last year we had 87 at the buffet. See your August newsletter or the club website for the details. If you haven’t attended this gala before, give it some thought this year, especially if you’ve enjoyed the other club outings as this is usually our biggest one. We’ve been told we can have use of the party room AFTER our dinner to continue the festivities or tie flies, etc. Ask around of the regular attendees and you’ll probably decide to join us. This is a great opportunity for those new to fly fishing or to our trout parks to pick up some tips from oldtimers—and our club has plenty of those. We are again inclosing a Reservation Request with this newsletter, or print one from the website. Any questions, call Russ Hill @ 314 275 2673. Phone answered in USA, not Bombay. Stream Team # 31 Mill Creek Stream Team The Mill Creek Water Quality program will be October 10, 2009. The plan is to meet up at the Hen House in Bourbon, for breakfast at 7:00 am. We will car pool to the Bohigian mansion, where we will perform water quality work-ups on two sites. We will do a macro inspection at site one and chemical, visual and flow at both sites. I hope to get to the site by 9:00 a.m. and be finished by noon. We will then be off to fishing and fellowship. Please call Malcolm Royse at 636-329-1504 or [email protected], if you can help. Remember that we take all comers, we have a lot of fun. Current River Stream Team Saturday, October 31, 2009 10:00 a.m. This Halloween come and explore the haunts of some real creepy-crawlies! It is that time of the year when we will be conducting all four parts of the monitoring process—this includes macroinvertabrates, stream discharge, visual survey, and water chemistry. Your help is needed and will be greatly appreciated. When we monitor the macroinvertabrates, a true “creature feature” is promised. Remember it is not a requirement to have taken the Stream Team trainings in order to help out. Trained individuals will be on hand and will be eager to answer any questions and explain details relating to the Stream Team program. Don’t be concerned that you will be standing around. Ozark will have you hands-on! Whether you have attending the monitoring in the past or not, keep in mind that you will be welcomed among friends. (cont. next page) Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 4 Stream Team #31 (continued) We always have a good time! Monitoring usually takes about three hours to complete. Once completed everyone is free to fish. (By the way, this will be the last day to fish the regular season at Montauk State Park. The regular season will not open again until March 1st.) Remember to bring your waders, sack lunch, water, etc. Anyone interested in participating, please contact Scott Darrough at 314-560-1335. Educational Programs for 2009- 2010 We are in full swing getting the educational programs in place for the fall and winter. First, I want to thank the following people for their continued support: Clinton Carpenter- Project Healing Waters Brian Ellis - Casting Chair Earl Schenberg - Fly Tying Chair Jim Wallace - Educational Library Also, all of you who have been there every time I need help, thank you. This year we will have our programs through the St. Louis County Parks Department. The classes will be listed in later newsletters, when the schedule is set by the Parks people. Look for things to start in January 2010. The Members only Classes begin in November and run thru March. The classes will be on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm. We might start some classes at 6:00 pm. if the information needs more time. All classes will be rated for difficulty, but do not let that scare you off. The information learned will help you grow at whatever tying level you are at. For information, call Malcolm Royse or Earl Schenberg. The Go Fish Program will again have a Trout Fishing Section this Fall at all four sites: Bellfountain, Suson, Forest Park and Busch Wildlife. There will be a number of classes for youths where Ozark Fly Fishers will be providing instruction in casting and fishing with a fly rod. Keep an eye out for the dates as they have not been set at this time. Project Healing Waters in going strong and is really changing the lives of people, mostly our own Ozark Fly Fishers that are giving of themselves to helping a Vet. Clint Carpenter and his helpers keep telling me how much more they get then they give. Go figure something this great would be so rewarding. We have a great resource in our Library which is managed by Jim Wallace. If you have not taken advantage of it, your missing out on some great information. Also, if you have any materials your not using any more, please consider adding it into the library. Lastly, I have come to know some of the greatest people by just fishing with them. Many of them have taught me something so new or so old, but new to me. The greatness of this club is not in its meetings, but in the laughs we have taking a fly out a tree, or the lip of a trout. This is where our greatest educational programs are given and received. I recently sat in the darkest part of Missouri at 10:00 or 11:00 pm, learning some of life’s greatest lessons with what was a total stranger, now a new friend. Take a chance. Hang out with someone you don’t really know. Try it, you will like it. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 5 1st Annual Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night to benefit OFF conservation and education efforts Emceed by Art Ryan $$$ Cash and Prizes $$$ Soda and snacks provided; participants may bring their own. When: Saturday, October 24th, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. Doors open at 6:15 P.M. Where: Wild Acres Park Gym 2500 Ashby Road Overland, MO 63114 Fee: $15 per player / $120 per table of eight Mulligans available: 5 for $8 Register your 8-person team with: Sandy at 314-965-7456 or email her at [email protected] Call for Volunteers The first meeting of the Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night steering committee was held last week and I am overwhelmed with the details. Patti and Patrick Hummert are invaluable since they have held four trivia nights for the Casting for Recovery retreats. Sandy Halama is an enthusiastic supporter of Ozark and an avid trivia player who is also greatly involved. However, we are in need of lots of volunteers if this night is to be a success. We will need people to help with registration, soda, snacks, 50/50 raffle and lots of other jobs. Please contact us if you can help on that night, October 24th. Thanks. Larry Carli 618-659-1579 [email protected] Patti Hummert 314-477-9319 [email protected] Sandy Halama 314-965-7456 [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 6 Project Healing Waters by Jim Volkman Beautiful Westover Farms near Steelville Mo. was the site of the ‘first fishing day ever’ for five Jefferson Barracks Hospital veterans. Westover Farms waived all charges while hosting this event and managers Lisa and Tom Schlueter helped Ozark angler volunteers show the veterans a full day of fly fishing. None of the vets had done any fishing before but some had attended one of our Monday night recreational therapy fly tying classes at the Hospital. Morning lessons at the Farm’s warm water ponds gave all the vets some of the basics of rod and reel, flies, knots, casting and catching (sunfish and bass). After an outdoor picnic lunch of 'dogs and brats' furnished by the Healing Waters group and cooked by the VA therapists attending, the remainder of the day was spent at the trout ponds and spring creeks. While the veterans caught more sunfish in the morning than trout in the afternoon, all caught many fish during the trip. Several of the vets caught fish on flies they had tied themselves at a previous Monday night OFF tying class. PHW caps and bandannas and OFF pins were passed out as prizes for the biggest fish, smallest fish, most fish, biggest smiles etc… OFF members and a couple recent Healing Water volunteers made the day with the vets a fun one for all. According to the vets, the VA hospital therapists and our own volunteers---our first outing of this kind was a heartening success. We plan on more outings of this kind. Our club volunteer group is slowly gaining members and should allow us to repeat this kind of recreational therapy in the future. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 7 Montauk Outing by Mark Thalhammer Where has the summer gone? For the last few years I have always looked forward to August because that is the month for the annual Montauk Outing. This year was no different. But, how did it come and go so quickly? I guess that quickening passage of time is a sign of the aging process that we all go through. It is a good reason to make the most of the time that we have left. Getting out on the stream and meeting our fishing friends is a great way to create memories that will be with us till the end. This year, because of other commitments, Jo and I couldn’t get out on the water Friday. We arrived about 4pm and all we heard was -- lots of fish, no bites. The second thing we heard was Malcolm caught a huge brown down below the park. Of course, we asked to see the pic, and to no one’s surprise, the only picture taken was a “mental” one by none other than the fisherman himself……Malcolm. Others came forward to confirm the “story” of the huge brown but they were also seen later that day with what could be called an excessive amount of cash….can you say payoff? Luckily, the fishing for us mere mortals improved and Saturday and Sunday turned out to be great days on the water. The only thing that might have been better than the fishing was the unbelievable weather. Could it ever get any better? This couldn’t have been Missouri in August. Saturday evening we all gathered in the Searcy room for a tasty evening repast served up by the Montauk staff. Afterward we got together for an enjoyable night of tying, and lying. So many tiers and so many patterns it was hard to get around to see them all. Do all these patterns really catch fish or are they just fun to tie? Everyone had a wonderful time. If you missed it this year, make plans now so that you can be certain to make it next year. (Be sure to check out all of the pics that Al put up on the website) Membership Report By Dave Haas Last reported membership on 8-27-2009 New memberships since 8-27-2009 Deceased member Total memberships as of 9-9-2009 321 4 -1 324 A year ago (September 8, 2008) 335 Annual gain or (loss) (11) (3.3%) We extend our condolences to the family and friends of John G. Freeman, St. Ann, MO, recently deceased. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 8 Welcome the following new members Guy Cunningham & Family St. Louis, MO Charles D. Herwig, Jr. Hazelwood, MO Bill Croker Manchester, MO Charles Kohlbrecher Trenton, IL Fly of the Month by Earl Schenberg THE SAN JUAN WORM: Tied by: Joseph Aimonette 08/27/2009 Materials: Hook: # 10 to 14 scud hook Thread: Red 8/0 Body: Copper Wire, Micro Chenille, 2” long (red is traditional but you may use any color) Gold Bead Optional (1/8 or size best for hook chosen) This is a very simple and effective pattern that can be fished for trout as well as warm water species. How to tie: Slide bead on to hook shank, Lay down a thread base up to, hook bend securing the bead in center of hook. Attach copper wire and chenille at the bend of the hook. Wind thread back to bead and secure chenille behind bead. Pull chenille over top of bead and secure in front of bead. Wind thread to front to hook and tie down chenille one hook eye back from front of hook. Counter wrap wire from back to front as if your were putting down a ribbing pattern up to and over the bead and finish at the tie down point at the front of the hook Whip finish, apply cement. Trim chenille to length (Approx. 1 to 2 inches) singe ends with a flame.. How to fish: Dead drift near the bottom with the indicator or tight line presentations. History and information: Some people consider this a controversial fly, mostly because it has the word "worm" in its name. Don Bryant, a Westfly user who has fished New Mexico's San Juan River for 25 years, says of this fly: "The nymph pattern was first developed on the San Juan River below Navajo Dam in NW New Mexico to imitate the river's large population of aquatic worms. They are generally one inch to two inches long and live in the riverbed itself. They turn up in great numbers if you seine the bottom by turning over rocks or stirring up the muck with your wader boot. They look very much like earthworms or miniature night crawlers (some even having the distinctive worm collar. They come in a variety of mostly neutral colors. The trout feed on them extensively and find flamboyant colors an added attraction. The trout definitely take the SJW fly pattern to be exactly what it is designed to represent, the worms of the San Juan River. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 9 Federation of Fly Fishers by Bob Temper Whirling disease has made headlines and presented much discussion in recent years. While discussion has faded from the headlines the disease has not gone away. A summary report of progress in research and management of Whirling Disease in the United States was posted on the Federation of Fly Fishers web site section “in the News” on August 25, 2009. The report in which FFF participated is now available for downloading from the web page: http://www.fedflyfishers.org The report provides new information on the management and research aspects of this harmful trout parasite and invasive species. Whirling disease presents an informative case study in a variety of ways – as an exotic species, a parasite, a fish pathogen, a perceived natural catastrophe, a perceived non-event, a threat to wild and native salmonids, a risk to fish culture, and collaborative research and management. The work of researchers continues to contribute to a greater understanding of the disease ecology and to a better understanding of host parasite interactions and invasive species ecology. Current research is focused on understanding the dynamics of the ecology at a landscape level, characterizing the mechanisms of resistance in hosts, refining risk assessments, and improving management tools. The breadth of research that has taken place since the discovery of the disease has expanded our understanding of this parasite, but also revealed how much there is still to understand. As researchers continue to examine the complexities, a better understanding of this parasite will emerge and management strategies will become increasingly effective at protecting and enhancing salmonid populations. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 10 The Winter Chili Tie - In by Earl Schenberg The Winter Chili Tie In at Marlin's club house will be on Oct 17th. The Club decided to have another one since the first one was a hit. The theme will be ”The Flies of Winter." So get to your vises and begin practicing your favorite flies for the winter season which begins on Nov. 13 2009. We always celebrate that opening date with our club event, "Winter Catch and Release outing" At Bennett Spring's, Sand Springs Resort. This is your chance to show off your very best winter flies as well as help those need help getting into this season. It is also one of the best opportunities to learn many new tricks as to how to tie the fly that will fool the big one in the clear cold waters of winter. Volunteers are needed to bring a dish/pot of your favorite recipe, chili or otherwise. Any food contribution will be greatly appreciated. Please contact me so that I can co-ordinate the items for a well rounded offering and a delectable variety of tangy hot and cold foods. Thanks for your help. Contact Earl Schenberg at 314 434-5282; 314 434-7622 (home); 314 609-3442 (cell) Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 11 Random Thoughts by Ty Livingstone BEER…IT’S NOT JUST FOR BREAKFAST ANYMORE! Last month I missed my column deadline because I was on a fishing trip with some good friends. I totally zoned out on the date (which is a good thing) and by the time I got back to civilization it was too late. For many of us fisher folk, one of the common denominators of our experiences include a good, cold beer at the end of the day. Some camp coffee to kick-off and a barley and hops beverage to celebrate the day’s end makes for great bookends. Like so many things in life, we all have very different tastes and preferences. Some like food spicy, others mild. Some like blondes, others brunettes, or maybe even a redhead (or something in between all of the above). Some like hot weather; some like it cold…some like rain, others like it dry. Some like their coffee strong, others weak. Some folks like fishing for bass (the coarse fish, as the snooty among us refer to it) and some like fishing for the small scales (trout)…saltwater, fresh water (budget determines some of this)…worms, lures, or flies…and so on and so forth. Different strokes for different folks makes for an interesting tapestry…and as I have mentioned before, makes for a better trip around this ball we call earth. And, that my friends, brings me to BEER. If you are a beer drinker (and you know who you are!), you have certain likes and dislikes (or degrees thereof). Some like the Anheuser Busch family of beers (also now known as Belgium beer, not to be confused with Belgium-style ales) and some like Miller (now a South African company). Within those families you have the Bud and Bud Light fight (for my palette, Bud Light is the poorest excuse for beer known to man – the AB attorneys can contact my attorney – Sal Schmuck – if need be). Coors (now a Canadian company) used to be smuggled across the border in car trunks (what a special and exciting time that was for us). Others like their microbrews (my preference…and maybe the only real American beer). These loyalties are bonds that compete with allegiances to political parties, union affiliations, nationalities, regions, sports teams (Cubs vs. Cards, etc. – and by the way, the Cubs suck), chocolate preferences (white, milk, and dark – and even here, semi-sweet, bittersweet, and extra dark), and everything in between. So, we have our loyalties and at the end of the day, you are allowed to drink any damn thing you want to (until the government tells you otherwise…or taxes it until you can’t afford it). What you do with your money is your business. Which brings me to my point…because I care about my readership (does anyone really read this column? I have no idea, but if you are out there, I have your back!) and want to help you save some money in this time of economic turmoil. You can’t be deprived of your beer, if nothing else. I want you to think about making the most of your money. Beer costs money. Water is free (unless you pay a buck a bottle for it…I have already randomly ranted about the evils of bottled water in previous columns, so I will not do it here…what you waste your money on is your business). For many years, we had nothing but regular beer and all of the variations. Near beer (non-alcoholic) has had various incarnations and reincarnations (even LA Beer, low alcohol beer) without much success. Light beer stormed on the scene with Miller Lite (Tastes Great! Less Filling! Maybe Both? Neither? Depends on your taste buds)…then speaking of buds, out came Bud Light (another Belgium beer, not to be confused with Belgium-style ale) and after spending a gamillion dollars on advertising has become the number one beer in America. I thought we had hit beer bottom (or is that beer belly?). But, NO! The masterminds of Beer Universe met secretly in the bottom of a Free Mason Temple, did séances, and solicited advice from the Dark Side. They got approval from the John Birch Society and a final sign-off from the International Conspiracy Triumvirate and were allowed to pour water in leftover beer and market it as a healthy alternative to the existing beers on the market. As a result, we were exposed to Michelob Ultra and Bud Select. Less than 100 calories! Take half a beer, add water, and market it. Not to be outdone, Miller rolled out MGD64…64 calories…take half of a half beer, add a little more water, and market it. Again, not to be outdone, that Belgium company, Anheuser Busch took half of a half beer with water added and added a little more water and chiseled those calories down to 55 – the new BudSelect55. . Most amazing of all, is that people actually buy that stuff…and it is not cheap. Coming up next…beer flavored water with negative calories. You will loose weight when you drink it. What exactly is my point (and do I really need to have one)? Tip of the day…if you like the “lighter beers” on the market, save yourself some serious money…buy what’s on sale and just add water. As for me, I am going to buy the good stuff and drink less of it. It is the least I can do for myself. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events September 2 Project Healing Waters Outreach Program – Westover Farms (Contact Jim Wallace) September 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing September 24 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm – guest speaker Mike Kruse September 26 Blue Springs Water Quality Monitoring – Blue Springs (Contact Glen Bish) October 10 Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) October 14 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program –volunteers needed October 18 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program - volunteers needed October 22 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm – guest speaker Norm Crisp (Streamside Adventures) October 17 Winter Chili Tie In - Marlin’s Club House The Flies of Winter (Contact Earl Schenberg) October 24 Trivia Night (Contact Larry Carli) October 31 Current River Water Quality Monitoring – Current River/ Tan Vat (Contact Scott Darrough) November 3 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Midges (Level 1) November 13 – 14 Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing Contact (Russ Hill) November 26 No Monthly Meeting December 1 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Cracklebacks December 17 Monthly Meeting - Fly Tying and Fishing Knots January 5, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Emergers (Level 2-3) February 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Terrestrials (Level 2-3) March 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Crawfish (Level 3) Page 12 Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Page 13 18th ANNUAL CATCH AND RELEASE OPENING WEEKEND AT BENNETT SPRING NOV 13 -14-15 Name___________________________________Phone:Day________________Night__________________ Address______________________________________City/Zip_____________________________________ Accommodations to be shared with_____________________________________________________________ E mail___________________________________________ IMPORTANT: THE CLUB IS CHARGED THE SAME AMOUNT WHETHER THERE ARE 1 OR 2 OCCUPANTS IN THE DOUBLE BED ROOMS. IF YOUR BUDDY CANCELS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED THE LISTED FULL PRICE, MINUS COST OF 1 DINNER. THE 2 OF YOU WILL HAVE TO DECIDE HOW TO APPORTION THE COST. Packages: All packages include the buffet dinner and the pre-dinner social hour. Singles Package: One bed, one person _____Saturday, Nov.14…………………………………………………………………………………………………..62.00 _____Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13-14……………………………………………………………………………… 108.50 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov. 12-13-14…………………………………………………………………… 155 00 Couples Package: One double bed, two people _____Saturday, Nov. 14 (per couple)………………………………………………………………………………… 88.50 _____Friday and Saturday Nov. 13-14 (per couple)………………………………………………………………… 147.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov. 12-13-14 (per couple).…………………………………………………… 205.00 Deluxe Couples Package: Two double beds, two people _____Saturday, Nov. 14 (per couple) ……………………….. …………. …………………………………………….90.50 _____Friday and Saturday, Nov.13-14 (per couple)…………………………………………………………………151.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov.12-13-14 (per couple) ………………………………………………………212.00 Housekeeping Package: Two double beds, two people, kitchen _____Friday, Saturday, Nov 13-14 (per couple) ……………………………………………………………………….172.50 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov. 12-13-14 (per couple)……….……………………………………………….243.50 Triple Package: Three double beds, Three people _____Friday, Saturday, Nov. 13-14 ……………………………………………………………………… ……………219.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov.12-13-14 ……………………………………………………… ……………..306.00 Third Person Package: Two double beds/3rd twin, Three people _____Friday, Saturday, Nov. 13-14………………………………………………………………………………………192.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov 12-13-14………………………….……………………………………………265.00 _____Social Hour and Buffet Dinner only (no lodging)……………….………………………………………………….14.00 ADDITIONAL PERSONS AND PETS EXTRA Pets: $15/ night Rollaway Bed: $10/night Cancellations: If you cancel before Oct. 30, you will receive a refund; thereafter refunds will be made only if we can sell your room. Social Hour: The party room next to the pool will be open at 5:30. The club will provide soft drinks and light snacks. If you would like something else BYOL; we provide ice and glasses. Buffet Dinner: At Sand Spring Restaurant, 7PM. It will be a traditional Ozark buffet. You may BYOL. First in line?---Please leave a few ribs for those at the end! Mail this form with your check payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to Russ Hill, 46 Witmer Dr., Chesterfield, Mo. 63017 Accommodations will be booked only when received with a check for the full amount of the package selected. I will confirm receipt of your check by phone, e-mail or post card. Call me if you don’t get confirmation of your check in a reasonable time. Call 314-275-2673 for special needs, questions, etc. Ozark Fly Fishers September 2009 Officers: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster: Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 440181 St. Louis, MO 63144 Page 14 August 2009 August 2009 August Meeting Our August guest speaker will be Jim Rogers of Jim Rogers School of Fly Fishing and the Concessionaire at Bennett Springs State park. He will talk about the challenges of running the concession at Bennett Spring and should be able to provide a unique insight into fishing the park. In This Issue August Meeting President’s Message OFF Calendar Announcement Taneycomo Outing 18th Annual C & R Stream Team #31 Trivia Night Project Healing Waters Membership Report Fly of the Month Conservation Winter Chili Tie In Calendar Winter C & R Form Officers 1 2 2 3 3 4 5 6 6 7 10 12 12 13 14 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. Photo courtesy of Jim Rogers Fly School ©2007 Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education through Fly Fishing The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 2 President’s Message by Mike Swederska Sr. The Montauk outing is just around the corner. I have always enjoyed this outing with all the club members in the past. I think it is one of the best ways for members to get to know each other. I remember the first time this outing was put in play. We barely had ten members attending including myself and Vicky, seven years later we seem to average sixty. Some of the best times I have had on this outing are when we are all tying and getting to know each other. This year will be the first time that Vicky and I will not attend this great outing. It so happens to fall on the same week as the trip with Tim Wade we purchased at the banquet. I will be thinking of you guys while we are fishing in Wyoming. I know that Past President Larry Carli met with his committee on the Trivia night just recently. I understand that it is going to be a lot of fun. Our secretary Patti Hummert has put together several trivia nights for the Casting for Recovery organization. Her attention to detail with all that experience is going to pay off for our club. Larry will be asking for volunteers soon, so please step up and help. All the money raised will be coming to our club. If you have any questions about the trivia night please contact Larry. The last week of July Vicky and I along with Larry and Donna Carli went to Winter Park, Colorado. The game plan was to sit back enjoy the scenery and fish. Well, after three days of acclimating to an altitude of over 9000 ft. we finally got down to having fun. We went to the FFF conclave in Loveland on Wednesday. Not a lot of big names were there on opening day. I was told that they all start to come in on the weekend, but lots of fun things to see. What made it really nice for newbies such as us, the low attendance allowed us to see and talk to everyone. Since this was Vicky’s and mine first ever conclave we tried to take it all in. As I made my way around the different booths I got to the bamboo rod builders booth. To my great surprise member Bill Armon was manning the booth. We had a great time talking about grass rods and other good fly fishing stuff. As our conversation continued for a while Vicky moved on to the next booths. Larry and Donna were doing their own thing since this was not their first time to a conclave. Larry knew a lot of people there. I caught up with Vicky at Dave Whitlock’s corner. What a talented guy. He displayed all his art on paper, coffee mug and ceramic tiles. His wife Emily was just a ball of fire. Needless to say Vicky spent some money. What I enjoyed the most was all the fly tiers demonstrating their tricks. Tom Zeigler was one of the tiers and also our guide on Thursday. I have way more to talk about that took place at the conclave than space permits. I really would like to encourage all our members to attend a FFF conclave, Southern Council conclave or the Sowbug Roundup. If you have never gone to one you don’t know what you're missing. Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar Starting in September, Ozark Fly Fishers club activities can be found on the web site. A special link will be found to connect the member to the club calendar. The calendar will be similar to the one found on the Yahoo Group, but should be easily accessible to all members, not just those that belong to the Yahoo Group. To add dates to this calendar contact Bill Leslie who will serve as a clearing house for all activity dates (e-mail: [email protected] or phone: 314.398.1468). In order to avoid conflicts, Board members and directors should check the calendar before scheduling activities. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 3 Taneycomo Outing -Update! Taneycomo September 10th, 11th, 12th Taneycomo Lake, located in Branson Missouri, is one of the top tail waters in the country. Please join us on a three day outing -- you will have a chance to fish for a state-record trout. A local guide will give us a talk on Friday night and we will have a BBQ lunch at the pavilion by the damn on Saturday. Accommodations: The main site, Lilley’s Landing, is fully booked. If you would like suggestions for other accommodations or other details please call or email me: Mark Thalhammer, 636-928-6242, email: [email protected] If you need info on the area, Phil Lilley has a great forum full of information about Taney and all of the other fisheries in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas……Forum: http://ozarkanglers.com/forums/ Let me know ahead of time if you will be attending so that you can be included in the BBQ lunch and other activities. Call or email us regarding availability and further details: Mark or Jo Thalhammer, 636-928-6242 email: [email protected] 18th Annual Catch And Release Party Plans By Russ Hill It is again time already to begin plans and reservations for the OFF winter C&R festivities. The lazy hazy days of summer (corny, eh ?) will soon be over, and although it is still summer, it is time to make your plans for our 18th annual Opening Weekend for Catch and Release trout fishing at Bennett Spring. This year the no-creel fishing begins at 8 AM Friday, November 13, and continues on Saturday and Sunday until 4 PM each day. Hard to believe this is our 18th year! (C&R fishing is open on Mondays also) Your entertainment committee has reserved a block of rooms for the weekend at Sand Spring Resort. We’ll have a private get-together Saturday evening in the Party Room for club members followed by a super dinner in the Sand Spring Restaurant. The spring creek will be open for no-creel fishing, but limited to flies and artificials (no bait). Instead of the daily tag of summer, you need only to get a Trout Permit ($7.00), good until February 2010, which is good at all four trout parks. You can get one anywhere Missouri licenses are sold, so you won’t have to stand in line at the hatchery office. No daily tag is required. Again, we are offering package plans for accommodations plus tickets to the private Club social hour and traditional Ozark buffet (all you can eat) dinner. Types of accommodations and rates will be found in the reservation request elsewhere in this newsletter. As always, the Social Hour is BYOL with the club supplying ice, glasses, soft drinks and light snacks. Your coolers are welcome. Remember, this is a club weekend, not just “the guys go fishing” at this one. Last year we had many couples. Plan to bring your special “person” even if he/she doesn’t fish. (We’ve got to be politically correct.) (continued next page) Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 th 18 Annual Catch & Release Party Plans (continued) There is fun to be had snooping in the antique shops and mall in Lebanon—and there are several nice lunch spots in town. To avoid disappointment, mark your calendar for Nov. 13-15 and send in your check now. Due to problems with postal delivery last year, I will confirm receipt of your check by phone, post card or E-mail. Call Russ Hill (314-275-2673) if you don’t get confirmation of your check in a reasonable time. We do understand how plans can change. If you have a problem, a full refund will be made if you cancel by Oct. 30. After that date, refunds will be made only if we can resell your room. Dinner reservations will be accepted Page 4 until Nov. 1 when we have to guarantee a count to the restaurant. Rooms will be reserved only as prepaid reservations are received. Please let us know early if you would like two or more rooms together for a group. Reservations will be confirmed early in November, advising you of your room number (phones in rooms). All sleeping rooms have a percolator, coffee cups and a small refrigerator. The housekeeping rooms have full size refrigerators, stove, utensils and plates, plus a dining table with 4 chairs. Keep in mind that there are very few of the rooms with one bed. The restaurant will be open for all meals beginning Friday morning. If you plan to stay over for the Monday fishing, see the office and make your reservation for this separately. Stream Team # 31 Stream Team #31 Activity Report Thank you all for making the July 18th Stream Team/Outing at Tan Vat a big success. In fact, we had such a good turnout that we were able to include Baptist Camp in the testing. We completed WQM (water quality monitoring) consisting of stream discharge, visual survey and water chemistry tests at both sites and also a macro-invertebrate survey at Baptist Camp. After a quick barbeque lunch participants had an opportunity to fish the waters using the information that they learned from the testing. Having the opportunity to see the bugs that the fish are eating, up close, can really improve your fishing. Be sure to mark your calendar, so that you don’t miss this outing next year. It was educational and fun AND the fishing was great. Thank you Scott Darrough and Malcolm Royse for heading up the testing and a big thanks to the participants -- thank you ….Glenn B., Al & Debbie, Ron S., Mike & Louise, Joe A., Bill L., Diane, Brad, Steve and Mark & Jo. Blue Springs Water Quality Monitoring Saturday, September 26, 2009 Another chance to enter and study the world of the bugs trout eat. Saturday, September 26 th there will be another sampling of the water quality on Blue Springs Creek outside of Bourbon, Missouri. Glen Bish will lead both invertabrate and chemical monitoring of the stream. One location on the stream will be monitored taking about 3 hours. So, there should be plenty of time to fish, if you so chose. Meet at the Hen House in Bourbon at 8:00 AM for breakfast. Or at 9:00 AM in the parking lot south of the Blue Springs Ranch road. For further information or to arrange for carpooling contact Glen Bish at [email protected]. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 5 1st Annual Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night to benefit OFF conservation and education efforts Emceed by Art Ryan $$$ Cash and Prizes $$$ Soda and snacks provided; participants may bring their own. When: Saturday, October 24th, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. Doors open at 6:15 P.M. Where: Wild Acres Park Gym 2500 Ashby Road Overland, MO 63114 Fee: $15 per player / $120 per table of eight Mulligans available: 5 for $8 Register your 8-person team with: Sandy at 314-965-7456 or email her at [email protected] Call for Volunteers The first meeting of the Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night steering committee was held last week and I am overwhelmed with the details. Patti and Patrick Hummert are invaluable since they have held four trivia nights for the Casting for Recovery retreats. Sandy Halama is an enthusiastic supporter of Ozark and an avid trivia player who is also greatly involved. However, we are in need of lots of volunteers if this night is to be a success. We will need people to help with registration, soda, snacks, 50/50 raffle and lots of other jobs. Please contact us if you can help on that night, October 24th. Thanks. Larry Carli 618-659-1579 [email protected] Patti Hummert 314-477-9319 [email protected] Sandy Halama 314-965-7456 [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 6 Project Healing Waters by Jim Wallace We have an outing scheduled at Westover Farms for 5 veterans on September 2, 2009 and are in need of 2 stream helpers. Please contact Clint Carpenter (636-387-9775) or Jim Wallace (314-452-9904) if you are interested. We will be leaving Jefferson Barracks at 8:00 AM and will return around 4:30 PM. Also, the program is in need of volunteers every Monday from 6:00 PM to 7PM at Jefferson Barracks. You do not have to go through the volunteer training to come and help the Vets. The more volunteers we have the more Vets we can help! If the times do not fit your schedule you can also show your support for our heroes by purchasing a chance to win a guided trip for two on Lake Taneycomo. The tickets are three dollars each and are available at Feather-Craft, Hargroves, Brass Pro, Cabela’s and at the fly shops down at Lake Taneycomo. Membership Report By Dave Hass Last reported membership on 7-8-2009 New memberships since 7-8-2009 Former members rejoining since 7-8-2009 Deceased members Data entry error Total memberships as of 8-10-2009 A year ago (August 11, 2008) Annual gain or (loss) 317 4 2 -2 -1 320 333 (13) (3.9%) Welcome the following new members Ruth M. Hess Ballwin, MO Gregory & Barbara Shepard Wildwood, MO Mark Walker St. Charles, MO Russell H. Wall Cedar Hill, MO Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Terry G. McCarty and David K. Senderling. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 7 Fly of the Month by Earl Schenberg SIMPLY HOPPER: (Just plain hopper nothing fancy) The Hopper season is officially upon us beginning Aug 1st. These big bugs are on the water coming from the weeds, grass and over hanging vegetation along the stream. They can make for explosive feeding opportunities and in some cases, trigger trout strikes from across a pool. Most of the patterns I have seen are moderate to extremely difficult to tie and as such, are not fished by the average angler. I have come up with a simple Hopper pattern that anyone can tie and fish easily. It is best to drift this fly close to the bank or under overhanging trees and bushes where trout lie to get away from the heat of the day and the direct overhead sun. I encourage you to fish this “Simply Hopper” pattern, and let the results speak for themselves. Materials: Hook: TMC 2302 Size; 8,10,12,14 Body: Closed Foam, width sized to hook. Dubbing: Yellow, tan or green. (Any floating material) Collar: Deer hair Instructions: Start with a thread base on the hook. Cut a strip of foam and tie on the hook leaving a one inch over hang on front and rear. Body should be well tied to the hook shank and end at the hook point. Super glue can be used, if needed, for larger sizes. Trim the foam at the rear in a rounded shape which extends to the end of the hook. Dub a tapered body up the foam body to the head. Stop two hook eyes from the front. Prep and stack a tuft of deer hair and attach at this point. Size it to extend to the end of the foam body. Let the deer hair flair and trim off the front portion very short as it will be covered by the foam. Attach one or two legs on each side at the same tie in point as the deer hair. Bring the foam back over the deer hair to form the head, bind down, whip finish and trim short at the tie down point. Apply cement and trim the legs and it’s ready to hit the stream. With a little practice you will be tying this pattern quickly without a hitch. The Hopper season is officially upon us beginning Aug 1st. These big bugs are on the water coming from the weeds, grass and over hanging vegetation along the stream. They can makee for explosive feeding opportunities and in some cases, trigger trout strikes from across a pool. Most of the patterns I have seen are moderate to extremely difficult to tie and as such, are not fished by the average angler. I have come up with a simple Hopper pattern that anyone can tie and fish easily. It is best to drift this fly close to the bank or under overhanging trees and bushes where trout lie to get away from the heat of the day and the direct overhead sun. I encourage you to fish this “Simply Hopper” pattern, and let the results speak for themselves. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 8 The Eleven Point River and the Crow by George Bohigian The Eleven Point River is perhaps the most pristine and best trout stream in Missouri. The Blue Ribbon section 5.5 miles from Greer Springs to Turner Mill is a full day float if you stop to fish the many enticing spots along the river. In the first week of August on a Thursday afternoon and Friday morning we fished this amazing stretch of Ozark water which flows through the Mark Twain National Forest. The air temperature was in the mid nineties but on the water it was delightfully cool even in the warm sunshine. Greer Springs is the second largest spring in Missouri after Big Springs producing 200 million gallons of water a day. This Wild Trout Management Area is fly fishing and artificial lures only with a daily limit of one trout at least 18 inches long. The first stop was a half a mile down from the Greer Springs Access at the first small island there was a small deep channel on the right. I got out wading. I was told by the Eleven Point Canoe rental that this spot held many trout. I placed a crawdad #10 fly tied by our own Al Bourisaw with a BB split shot 18 inches above the crawdad fly I tied another fly- a David Whitlock fox squirrel nymph # 10 tied by Al with rubber legs about 16 inches below the crawdad as my terminal fly. The water was off color with visibility of about 16 inches so I used a five pound tippet. I gently dropped them into the cold blue green rushing waters. A strong tug was felt and I was happily awarded a beautiful strong 15 inch Rainbow. Gastric aspiration revealed a zebra like midge. I did the obligatory photo and gently released the fish into its watery habitat. Several more fish were taken then we moved on downstream. Below the third island about 1.5 miles from the put in we found a perfect campsite to set up camp. We gathered firewood and prepared a gourmet meal of Chili Man chili. The open can was set on the hot embers and when the label finally burnt off we knew it was aldetente. Roasted hot dogs wrapped in a soft warm blanket of tortillas served with dill pickles, Provence olives and cold "girlie" raspberry favored Gatorade washed it down. Fishing in the evening was attenuated by a background light of the setting sun through an evening mist. A good night sleep in tents with the cool evening temperatur e had made it a perfect afternoon and night. The next morning free range ted ba ls on th fresh eggs over easy, sausage, to toasted bagels the open fire with smooth cream cheese with organic free trade coffee picked on small family farms from Central American highlands was the order of the day. As I cast into a deep darkly shaded mysterious pool I noted a large solitary crow which I took as sign of impending doom and gloom. This omen portended a fateful day. As my companions struck camp-after I meekly offered to help- I announced that I was going to wade downstream to fish and "they" could pick me up on the way down shortly. I carefully waded down 200 yards but could not go further because of deep water. I could not go back up to the campsite because of the current and the large rocky bottom. No fish were had. I elected to sit on a log on the bank near the impregnable thick forest to contemplate life and "enjoy the moment". After an hour the "moment" wore thin. We were four miles away from the take out point with only an hour and half of time left to make it. Wilting in the heat of my rising anger I tried to shout at my "so called friends" whom I could barely see upstream but they could not hear my shouts of "what the hell is holding you guys up!"After 90 minutes I became apoplectic - my moment of joy turned to hate. To add insult Brain Slows the top Eleven Point guide ( www.11pointcanoe.com/ 417778-6497 ) came down the river guiding two fly fisherman catching fish in front of me which I had fished without reward. I could see the campsite; my former colleagues were lazily floating in the water to relax! This scene sent me over the edge. (continued next page) Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 continued from p 8 Surely this would be the last time I would suffer these fools...None of our "party' except me had a watch. Time was not timeless or nor elastic. It was now 90 minutes in to my ordeal of waiting and suffering. I could see my dreams of fishing the last four miles were evaporating -like a dead fish that had rolled over onto its belly and its carcass drifting haplessly downstream. I knew if they picked me up we would need to put the "paddle like hell' to make it to the take out point on time for our scheduled pick up. The ominous foreboding crow had predicted this tragedy. Finally the my former friends picked me up after an hour and half. However the first canoe realized I was upset and it showed. One of them shouted "Bohemian you need a dose of perspective - a healthy dose!" I answered in an unprintable string of phrases that caused the fish to jump around menthe second canoe finally pick me up. I was livid. My canoe mate said they were delayed because as they were taking down the tent, the wind blew it into the Page 9 river; they had to catch it, drain it and dry it out during this time a family of six with three canoes floated by the deep hole next to our old campsite. Suddenly a father and his younger son capsized while sitting on their life vests. The kid popped up with fear in his face, wildly wind milling his arm, flailing the water. His father frantically clutching the canoe and his glasses who could only watch in panic. My former "associates" jumped in and saved both, righted and repacked their canoe. Reuniting them with their family -all together again - continued to paddle downstream without their life jackets on! Philosophically was this a moment in time with the rescue a random event or were greater forces of the cosmos at work? The clouds parted from my anger upon hearing this moving story - and a Rainbow appeared. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 10 Conservation by Wallis W Warren What is a day of fishing worth? “….In appreciation of the quality resources gifted us by our forbearers; we shall leave these resources no less diminished to our children….” mission statement - Federation of Fly Fishers What is a day of fishing worth? An interesting question and one many of us may not want to put a dollar value on since it is not a line item on any tax return I’ve ever seen! However, it is important for us as fly fishers to assess the value of our passion ~ not only in monetary terms, but in more important terms ~ quality of life. When value is established most people will take precautions to protect their valuables, whether they are people, possessions or activities. Consider the risk to that which we consider an important aspect to the quality of our lives ~ fishing and fish habitat. All of us can list serious threats that exist to fish habitat from development, pollution and degradation, over use and misuse of the resource, and one of the most threatening, climate change. Last month I was invited to participate in the Hunter/Angler Fly In sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation. Representatives from many outdoor and sporting groups across the country flew to Washington DC to meet with our Senators to discuss the importance of passing ACES (the American Clean Energy and Security Act) which had recently passed the House. In addition to addressing climate change by creating a declining cap on harmful emissions of greenhouse gasses, it encourages innovation, efficiency and new, clean energy jobs across the country. This bill also proposes to dedicate 5% of the total allowance value for safeguarding natural resources. For generations, hunters and anglers have lobbied for and funded legislation to protect habitat and populations. For example, the Dingell-Johnson Federal Aid in Sport Fisheries Act of 1950 provided nearly $6.2 billion collected from anglers (from 1952 through 2008) to fund improvements in water quality and supply throughout the 50 states. In the last 15 years, sportsmen and women have invested over $1 trillion in our environment and local communities. However, the clearly documented threats to habitat and populations due to climate change are increasing at rates beyond what the efforts of sportsmen and women can manage. Additional funding through this bill far exceeds any amount presently available for organizations and will open doors for critical conservation, restoration and protection projects. My trip to the Capitol allowed me to visit Representative Ike Skelton’s office to thank him for his support of the bill in the House. Although Senator Blunt was not available, Senator McCaskill took time to sit down and discuss her concerns with the bill, while allowing me time to emphasize the importance of the outdoors and natural resources to Missourians and how the ACES legislation would provide much needed funding while limiting greenhouse gasses. Senator McCaskill acknowledged the connection Missourians have to the outdoors, relating how she spent her youth accompanying her father on hunting trips in Mark Twain National Forest and agreed that our forests, rivers and streams are part of our tradition and heritage as well as an integral part of our quality of life and vital to our State’s economy. (continued p 11) Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 11 Conservation (continued) It seems inevitable when any discussion of legislation arises one of the first objections is …‘it will cost too much’… What is too much to protect our natural resources and heritage? Actual dollars/cents ~ the cost estimated by the CBO (Congressional Budget Office) is 47 cents (the current price of a postage stamp) per day per household. But this is about more than dollars and cents. It is about taking our time to educate ourselves and actively support legislation and programs that will continue to offer funding for protection and restoration of our natural resources, whether they are locally threatened habitats such as Crane Creek here in our state or areas perhaps some of us may never have the privilege to visit but hold a unique and critical value such as Bristol Bay in Alaska. Senator McCaskill made an interesting statement concerning this (and any other) legislation. She said the biggest task is to educate the citizens so they can make an informed decision. This is the responsibility each one of us has as we strive to guarantee that the quality outdoor experience we hold so valuable is available not only for ourselves, but for those that come after us. For additional information: Seasons’ End – Global Warming’s Threat to Hunting and Fishing www.seasonsend.org www.nwf.org/globalwarming www.tu.org/site/c.kkLRJ7MSKtH/b.3205851/apps/s/content.asp?ct=7158079 www.fedflyfishers.org/Default.aspx?tabid=4407 Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 12 The Winter Chili by Earl Schenberg The Winter Chili tie in at Marlin's club house will be on Oct 17th. The Club decided to have another one since the first one was a hit. The theme will be ”The Flies of Winter." So get to your vises and begin practicing your favorite flies for the winter season which begins on Nov. 13 2009. We always celebrate that opening date with our club event, "Winter Catch and Release outing" At Bennett Spring's, Sand Springs Resort. This is your chance to show off your very best winter flies as well as help those need help getting into this season. It is also one of the best opportunities to learn many new tricks as to how to tie the fly that will fool the big one in the clear cold waters of winter. Volunteers are needed to bring a dish/pot of your favorite recipe, chili or otherwise. Any food contribution will be greatly appreciated. Please contact me so that I can co-ordinate the items for a well rounded offering and a delectable variety of tangy hot and cold foods. Thanks for your help. Contact Earl Schenberg at 314 434-5282; 314 434-7622 (home); 314 609-3442 (cell) Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events August 21 -22 Montauk Outing (Contact Mark & Mary Jo Thalhammer) August 27 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm - Jim Rodgers, Bennett Springs and Roaring River September 2 Project Healing Waters Outreach Program – Westover Farms (Contact Jim Wallace) September 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing September 24 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm – guest speaker Mike Kruse September 26 Blue Springs Water Quality Monitoring – Blue Springs (Contact Glen Bish) October 10 Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) October 14 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program –volunteers needed October 18 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program - volunteers needed October 22 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm – guest speaker Norm Crisp (Streamside Adventures) October 17 Winter Chili Tie In - Marlin’s Club House The Flies of Winter (Contact Earl Schenberg) October 24 Trivia Night (Contact Larry Carli) November 3 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) November 13 – 14 Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing Contact (Russ Hill) November 26 No Monthly Meeting December 1 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) December 17 Monthly Meeting - Fly Tying and Fishing Knots January 5, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) February 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) March 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm (Contact Earl Schenberg) Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Page 13 18th ANNUAL CATCH AND RELEASE OPENING WEEKEND AT BENNETT SPRING NOV 13 -14-15 Name___________________________________Phone:Day________________Night__________________ Address______________________________________City/Zip_____________________________________ Accommodations to be shared with_____________________________________________________________ E mail___________________________________________ IMPORTANT: THE CLUB IS CHARGED THE SAME AMOUNT WHETHER THERE ARE 1 OR 2 OCCUPANTS IN THE DOUBLE BED ROOMS. IF YOUR BUDDY CANCELS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED THE LISTED FULL PRICE, MINUS COST OF 1 DINNER. THE 2 OF YOU WILL HAVE TO DECIDE HOW TO APPORTION THE COST. Packages: All packages include the buffet dinner and the pre-dinner social hour. Singles Package: One bed, one person _____Saturday, Nov.14…………………………………………………………………………………………………..62.00 _____Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13-14……………………………………………………………………………… 108.50 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov. 12-13-14…………………………………………………………………… 155 00 Couples Package: One double bed, two people _____Saturday, Nov. 14 (per couple)………………………………………………………………………………… 88.50 _____Friday and Saturday Nov. 13-14 (per couple)………………………………………………………………… 147.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov. 12-13-14 (per couple).…………………………………………………… 205.00 Deluxe Couples Package: Two double beds, two people _____Saturday, Nov. 14 (per couple) ……………………….. …………. …………………………………………….90.50 _____Friday and Saturday, Nov.13-14 (per couple)…………………………………………………………………151.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov.12-13-14 (per couple) ………………………………………………………212.00 Housekeeping Package: Two double beds, two people, kitchen _____Friday, Saturday, Nov 13-14 (per couple) ……………………………………………………………………….172.50 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday Nov. 12-13-14 (per couple)……….……………………………………………….243.50 Triple Package: Three double beds, Three people _____Friday, Saturday, Nov. 13-14 ……………………………………………………………………… ……………219.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov.12-13-14 ……………………………………………………… ……………..306.00 Third Person Package: Two double beds/3rd twin, Three people _____Friday, Saturday, Nov. 13-14………………………………………………………………………………………192.00 _____Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Nov 12-13-14………………………….……………………………………………265.00 _____Social Hour and Buffet Dinner only (no lodging)……………….………………………………………………….14.00 ADDITIONAL PERSONS AND PETS EXTRA Pets: $15/ night Rollaway Bed: $10/night Cancellations: If you cancel before Oct. 30, you will receive a refund; thereafter refunds will be made only if we can sell your room. Social Hour: The party room next to the pool will be open at 5:30. The club will provide soft drinks and light snacks. If you would like something else BYOL; we provide ice and glasses. Buffet Dinner: At Sand Spring Restaurant, 7PM. It will be a traditional Ozark buffet. You may BYOL. First in line?---Please leave a few ribs for those at the end! Mail this form with your check payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to Russ Hill, 46 Witmer Dr., Chesterfield, Mo. 63017 Accommodations will be booked only when received with a check for the full amount of the package selected. I will confirm receipt of your check by phone, e-mail or post card. Call me if you don’t get confirmation of your check in a reasonable time. Call 314-275-2673 for special needs, questions, etc. Ozark Fly Fishers August 2009 Officers: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster: Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 440181 St. Louis, MO 63144 Page 14 July 2009 July Meeting Our July guest speaker will be fisheries biologist Paul Cieslewicz. He comes from the MDC office in Cape Girardeau. Paul is the MDC fisheries biologist for the south east region of Missouri. His expertise is the whole Black River basin and all the other creeks and streams in between. When I interviewed Paul Cieslewicz for guest speaker, he wanted to know what kind of information he could provide to our members. I had stated that I do not ever hear of our members fishing any of the small creeks and streams in south east Missouri and that I would like to open up some new water to the members. Paul has agreed to give us the most productive waters for Small Mouth in his area. We also touched on accesses from low water bridges and what to look out for with the private property issues. He will provide information on public accesses to some really good water for fly fishing. Paul said that in his presentation he would like to field any questions from our members about his area for fly fishing for Small Mouth. This would help him direct the information that the members may be looking for. As a Missourian that has been fly-fishing this area for most of his life, I got to thinking it was about time to reintroduce it to new people in our sport and club. Member Cliff Parmer will be demonstrating how to tie braided leaders. Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education Through Fly Fishing In This Issue July Meeting President’s Message Montauk Outing Taneycomo Outing Winter In July Stream Team #31 Conservation FFF Trivia Night Fish On! Yough Outing Casting for Recovery Project Healing Waters Membership Report Random Thoughts Calendar Officers 1 2 3 3 4 4 6 8 9 9 10 10 11 12 13 13 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 2 President’s Message th What a great meeting outside at Tillis we had on June 25 . I was just a little shocked to find that almost twenty members were already there when I pulled up close to five pm. The affair was not suppose to start till six pm. Steve, our Vice President, was on hand to help me with the BBQ and with his help we got it done quickly. Vicky my wife, picked up the supplies at the local discount chain, bought fresh that day. We went through 82 brats, 70 hot dogs, 3 gallons of potato salad and 6 big bags of chips. I lost count of the different desserts. For drinks we went through a couple of cases of water and several cases of different flavors of soda. I had time before I had to leave to look around at all the members kibitzing, casting, and just enjoying the evening. I even got to see Tom Hargrove and Craig walk up and join in. Now it seems the event has arrived when we have this kind of turn out with our members and a couple of fly fishing celebrities from our area show up. I commented to Steve that the mosquitoes were not out yet, making it a very pleasant evening. Thanks go out to Vicky Swederska and Steve Antonic for all their help. On a very sad note this event was the last time we got to see and talk with Terry McCarty. He will be missed in the club. Thanks Al Bourisaw for that wonderful picture of Terry from that event and posting it on the web site. th th Now on to my message, the event on June 25 was on my 55 birthday. No big deal turning 55, at least I always thought. Now I am realizing that it is very hard for me to thread my flies, tie knots, tie tiny wines at the vice and to just get up from my knees on the stream bank. Holy cow!!! I always thought I would never have any problem fly-fishing, as I got older. This is a sport I can do until I died. Right? I noticed the other day I was wearing reading glasses and an Optimizer just to tie size 14 Pheasant tails. BTW I also wear contacts. I compared my tying to just last year’s flies. What a difference in quality without the vision help. When I dropped a bead on the carpet it hurt to drop down and get back in the chair. It takes me longer now to put on and take off my boots and waders. Man that bending over sucks. I told a friend of mine about these pains. He replied that I was still young. He said at his age it hurt to get up and sit down. I also noticed that I don’t fish from sun up to sun down on a regular basis any more, my knees and lower back start to talk to me. And darn! Has anybody else noticed the sun getting brighter? After fighting a decent fish I need a rest. I act like I am reminiscing the catch but actually I am resting my arm and back. I remember back when I joined this club I was tying 24s and 32s just for the heck of it. The older members looked at me with their expressions saying, “I cannot see it and just wait your day”. Today I am thinking of snelling tippet before tying the fly hoping that it will be easier to tie two tippets together for these old eyes in the creek. Now I know I am not as old as some in this club but I am letting the younger members realize where they are headed and enjoy the style of fishing that they are doing today. As I am getting older everything inside of my fly-fishing repertoire is changing with my age. The one thing that is most important to me is that as the changes take place I still enjoy the sport of fly-fishing. I know I will even if I am fishing a size 8 parachute on a 3x tippet. I am counting on the trout to go a little easier on me with age also. Mike Swederska Sr. Ozark Fly-Fishers President ReelAid - A benefit concert and silent auction featuring: Inner 61 The Dirt Brothers The Jeff Scheetz Band Gabby Johnson August 7, 2009 • 6:00 PM Minglewood Hall Memphis, Tennessee $15 in advance $18 week of show Celebration Wall With donation, you are encouraged to bring a photo of someone you’d like to remember or celebrate to be placed on our Celebration Wall. For more information, go to www.reelaid.com Mission Statement: Our goal is to raise money to help people in the mid-south attend Reel Recovery, Casting for Recovery & Project Healing Waters' fly fishing retreats for cancer patients and rehabilitating military. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 3 Montauk Outing By Ted Calcaterra [email protected] (636) 305-1085 The club will have its annual Montauk outing on the weekend of August 21-23rd. We have 18 motel rooms signed up as well as the Searcy Room. The deadline for signing up this year is Sunday August 16 th. This is a very popular event so please make sure to sign up as early as possible. As usual, the club will be hosting dinner on Saturday night, which will be catered by the lodge. The Searcy room will also be available to us all day Saturday and Sunday for those who want to get some tying done in addition to the fantastic fishing available. All rooms include two double beds, TV, etc but no kitchen. They have a walk out back door and a picnic table. These are the rooms next to the lodge. Tax is included and all prices subject to change. Make checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers c/o Ted Calcaterra 452 Hamilton Meadows, Fenton MO 63026. The rates are as follows: o o $130 per room for both Friday and Saturday night. $12 per person for the Saturday night dinner. Taneycomo Outing Taneycomo September 10th, 11th, 12th Taneycomo Lake, located in Branson Missouri, is one of the top tailwaters in the country. Please join us on a three day outing -- you will have a chance to fish for a state-record trout. A local guide will give us a talk on Friday night and we will have a BBQ lunch at the pavilion by the damn on Saturday. Accommodations: Lilleys' Landing, 367 River Lane, Branson, MO, phone 1-888-Lilleys You can see the various room layouts @ http://lilleyslanding.com . If you need info on the area, Phil Lilley has a great forum full of information about Taney and all of the other fisheries in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas……Forum: http://ozarkanglers.com/forums/ Lilleys’ Landing, offers several room layouts; lake front, sleep two-four, covered decks, stove, fridge, micros, coffee pot, dishes, utensils etc. and phone, TV, swimming pool, Jon boats, guide service, wi-fi access, fly shop. Let me know ahead of time if you can attend even if you won't be staying @ Lilleys' so that you can be included in the BBQ lunch. Call or email us regarding availability and further details: Mark or Jo Thalhammer, 636-928-6242 email: [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 4 Winter In July ? By Russ Hill Although it’s in the mid 90s, it is time to give a heads up regarding our annual whoop-up at Bennett Spring for the opening of the winter catch and release season. The dates this year are Nov. 13-15, and optional 16th for those who are available on Mondays. (Read retired or just goof offs.) So keep these dates open! Don’t schedule any birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or any other such nonsense your partner may have in mind. We have contacted Jack at Sand Spring Resort and will be welcomed back again this year. New members: This is one of our major outings and is heavily attended. A good opportunity to pick up some pointers from some of the old timers, who are always willing to share. Make reservations early as the rooms go fast to the repeat attenders. Last year we had 80 some odd in attendance. (Yes, admittedly, some of our members are a little odd.) More details and reservation forms will be in the August newsletter. Stream Team # 31 STREAM TEAM #31 (CURRENT RIVER) WANTS YOU!! BARBEQUE / FISHING / MONITORING OUTING July 18, 2009, 9:00 a.m. at Tan Vat Stream Team #31 is holding a combination Water Quality Monitoring and Barbeque. Come join us to help with the monitoring and enjoy a barbeque lunch. We will be doing three of the four-part monitoring procedures: Stream Discharge, Visual Survey, and Water Chemistry. The Macroinvertabrate part will be done later in the fall. Anyone who thinks they may be interested in water monitoring is welcome to help out (whether you have had training or not). Those without training will have an opportunity to get their “feet wet”. Once the monitoring is complete, the club will provide a barbeque lunch. After lunch you will be free to fish the Current River or at Montauk State Park. Remember to bring your hat, sunscreen, and a lawn chair. If you plan to help out, please call Scott Darrough at 314-560-1335 so that we may have an approximate head-count. Mill Creek Stream Team Activity Seven Stream Team #31 members met for a Mill Creek Stream Team activity on July 11, 2009. They did a Stream Discharge Survey and a Water Chemistry Survey at Site #1 and then set up Site #2 and did a Visual Survey, Stream Discharge Survey, a Water Chemistry Survey and a Macroinvertebrate Survey. Once the work was done, most of the group headed over to Montauk for an afternoon of fishing. Thanks to all who participated. The next activity at Mill Creek will be Oct 10th. All of you that are interested in helping with this activity are asked to call Malcolm Royse at (636) 329-1504 or email at [email protected]. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 5 Stream Team 31 (continued) STREAM TEAM # 31 - AN INVITATION 42ND Annual Operation Clean Stream Saturday, August 22nd 2009 8:00 a.m. to approximately 2:00 p.m. The Big River at Byrnes Mill City Park The annual August outing at Montauk is a good time – good friends, good food, good fishing (I had one of my best days ever fishing at the outing – I highly recommend it). With that said, if you are unable to attend the outing for whatever reason, perhaps you might consider an invitation to help the Trashmanian Devils (Stream Team #3797) clean up the Big River. Operation Clean Stream covers the Meramec drainage. This includes the Meramec, Bourbeuse, Big, Huzzah, and Courtois Rivers. It mobilizes 2,000 volunteers and is the world’s largest and oldest stream clean-up program. I will not sugarcoat this event. It is work and you will get dirty! But when we leave, the river has a different look. All trash is fair game, but tires are our “prized catch”. The Devils usually wrap things up around 2:00 p.m. and head over to Clean Stream headquarters at Greentree Park for free beer, soda, and hot dogs. Work gloves and T-Shirts will be provided. Please notify me in advance regarding your shirt size. As I mentioned, it is work but it’s fun and we have a good time. You will be welcome and among friends. Plus at the end of the day it is rewarding to see the difference you have made (as evidenced by the piles of trash that have been collected). Any help is greatly appreciated. If you are unable to attend the full day, feel free to arrive or leave at any time between 8:00 and 2:00 – just contribute whatever amount of time that you like. If interested in participating, please contact Scott Darrough at (314)-560-1335. I will be glad to provide directions or any other information. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 6 Conservation By Wallis W Warren “In a country were nature has been so lavish and where we have been so spendthrift of indigenous beauty, to set aside a few rivers in their natural state should be considered an obligation” Senator Frank Church, Idaho Ozark National Scenic Riverways need your support! Over forty years ago, Congress recognized the national significance of the free flowing Jacks Fork and Current rivers. The caverns, high volume springs and untouched beauty of these rivers were unique and valuable enough to be the first designated as ‘Ozark National Scenic Riverways’ (ONSR) and became the prototype for the Wild and Scenic rivers Act of 1968. Since that time, millions of people have come to Missouri to enjoy what those of us already know to be a treasure and special trust. Fishing, canoeing, water sports, hiking camping and bird watching are only some of the many activities this national park affords both locals and visitors to our state. However, if anyone has recently tried to enjoy any part of the 134 designated miles of ONSR, it seems as though those millions are on the rivers every summer weekend! In recent decades the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers have suffered serious degradation from overuse and inappropriate use, even blatant violations of specific restrictions and legal agreements the National Park Service (NPS) has adopted. To illustrate: Overdeveloped River Access When the park was established NPS suggested that development be carefully spaced with no more than 15-20 access points on the entire 134 mile length of river ~ by the early 1990’s more than 100 river access points had been opened, with the number continuing to increase. The Riverways has become a severely over-developed and over-accessed resource of lower and lower quality. This trend needs to be reversed and all unauthorized access points should be permanently closed. Illegal Use of Motorized Vehicles and Motorboats The exploding number of roads has encouraged the illegal trespass by all varieties of off-road vehicles (ATV’s, four-wheel drive vehicles and motorcycles). Websites and blogs even go so far as to advertise the ONSR as ‘ATV friendly’ High powered boats have become a threat not only to the peace and tranquility but to the safety of canoeists, swimmers and others using the water. Consistent complaints about unsafe boating practices go unchecked. When was the last time you floated the rivers and had someone in a jet boat slow down or show consideration for those on the water? Yes, there are those safe and responsible boaters on the rivers, but even they will admit there is a problem when it comes to enforcing safe boating standards. Scenic and Conservation Easement Violations To protect the scenic beauty and serenity of the Riverways, easements have been held by the NPS on private lands adjacent to NPS lands to protect the ONSR from additional development while allowing residents to continue to own the land they already held prior to the Park’s establishment. There are over 9000 acres of easements inside the ONSR boundaries. Over the years many violations have been ignored or even compromised by the NPS. Commercial Equestrian Use While horseback riding has always been a valuable and unique feature to the ONSR, new commercial facilities have developed that attract enormous groups over concentrated areas for short periods of time. Some organized trail rides have over 3,000 horses and riders in one weekend. As a trail rider myself, I value the opportunities to enjoy the natural environment with my horse, but I also understand the permanent impact such large groups of riders and horses can have on the water quality and habitat. Again, the activity is not the problem, but the huge volume of participants can only have an adverse impact on fragile resources. The Jacks Fork River is on the ‘impaired water body’ list for contamination (from the town of Eminence, continuing eight miles downstream). E coli outbreaks are common, to the extent that the NPS recommends closure of the river in several areas with regularity. There are only four equestrian trails recognized by the NPS, however there are hundreds of illegal trails used regularly by equestrians. Again ~ an unintended but very real impact on the water and surrounding land in the park. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 7 Conservation (continued) Special Opportunity ~ Wilderness Designation In addition to the specific concerns listed, a very important opportunity affords itself in the ONSR. The Big Spring Wilderness lies very near the legendary Big Spring. This 3400 acre area has been protected since the 1920’s (a portion of the old Big Spring State Park). Because of its specific and unique characteristics, it can be designated wilderness by Congress. Only a few areas remain that can qualify for this designation which allows all the current activities such as fishing, hunting, canoeing, hiking, etc. Only nonmotorized activities would be prohibited. This should be an easy decision ~ only a very few areas are left that can even meet the criteria for the special ‘wilderness’ designation. This designation would establish a legacy guaranteeing future generations the opportunity to enjoy a truly wild and scenic experience. Although the NPS has a public comment period, it should not be a recreation popularity poll. The primary purpose of the NPS is to ‘protect and preserve’ the rivers, surrounding lands and in particular, the springs and caves of the area as stated: 1) Conserve the scenery and the natural, historic objects and the wildlife therein 2) To provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations There are fewer and fewer areas where people can go to experience a natural environment and to enjoy day long canoe trips, fishing, camping on clean, quiet gravel bars, observation of native wildlife, back country hiking. The ONSR is particularly well suited for these types of experiences, however if anyone has spent a weekend trying to enjoy a float trip with your friends and family, you no doubt have found it impossible. In fact, the most frequent recommendation to anyone planning a peaceful outing is to stay off the Riverways on the weekends. Anyone (and everyone) that values the opportunity to experience time in a natural environment on a pristine river observing and interacting with wildlife needs to become familiar with and offer comment on the proposed management plan. While it may be impossible to turn back the clock and enjoy the environment that existed on the Riverways in 1964, Alternative A in the NPS proposal will strive to accomplish that. You can obtain a copy of the NPS 21 page ‘Preliminary Alternatives’ from the NPS website: http://www.nps.gov/ozar/parkmgmt/general-management-plan-information.htm Go to park planning nps to document list to Park Alternatives Newsletter to newsletter #3 Spring/Summer 2009 or call the Park Service (573) 323-4236 or write to request a copy Superintendant,ONSR PO Box 490 Van Buren, MO 63965. Comments should also be forwarded to Senators Kit Bond and Claire McCaskill as well as your local Congressperson. Ref: ‘Friends of the Ozark Riverways’ Public Participation and Comments Needed on the New Management Plan for the Troubled ONSR Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 8 Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) By Bob Temper FFF CONCLAVE 2009 ~ EXPLORE FLY FISHING FRONTIERS JULY 28 - AUGUST 1 LOVELAND, COLORADO Fly fishers from across the United States and world are uniting July 28 th – August 1st for the Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) 44th annual International Fly Fishing Show and Conclave in scenic Loveland, Colorado that is the premier event dedicated to the art and sport of fly fishing. The Conclave features more than 80 workshops and clinics on casting, fly tying, on-water fishing techniques and other topics taught by well-known instructors such as Bruce Richards, Lefty Kreh, and Bob Jacklin. The workshops are designed to appeal to a broad range of interests and skill levels. The fly fishing show features exhibits with the latest in gear, outfitters, conservation information and other related topics such as outdoor art and books. Unfortunately, CONCLAVE PRE-REGISTRATION IS CLOSED - if you have pre-registered you will receive a final confirmation in the mail. You may call the office with any questions about your registration. They will open for late registration at the Embassy Suites July 28th and you can sign up for open classes then. If you are planning to attend any meal events but haven’t purchased your ticket please call (406-222-9369 ext 107) to add them ASAP. It is necessary for them to have a count for the caterers. They will take meal ticket purchases only at this time. For additional information use the following link.: http://www.federationconclave.org/ Check the family page for information on local activities and special events planned for attendees! Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 9 Trivia Night The Ozark Fly Fishers will hold its first Trivia Night on October 24th at Wild Acres Park. Put a team of eight together and mark your calendar. Reservation information will be in the next newsletter. FISH ON! Youth Outing at Dry Run Creek, Arkansas – June 6th, 2009 By Kevin Miquelon We held the First Annual Youth Outing this year and it was a smash hit. The hope is that this was the first event that will continue for many years to come. We had an outstanding turnout – more than a dozen youth supported by parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and a host of Stream Helpers. Special thanks to Feather-Craft for sponsorship including all the fishing supplies – tippet, leaders, flies, hats, and all the prizes – including a grand prize TFO Fly Rod, Reel and Line and Ozark Fly Fishers for providing the funds for the food – spectacularly prepared by Chef Jim Wallace. Breakfast was a feast to behold and lunch was even better. Thanks Jim! Al Bourisaw provided a selection of magic flies that were guaranteed to catch fish – and did they ever deliver. Families involved included the Chisolms, the Fairlambs, the Marstillers, the Zagars, the Kochs, the Darrows, the Kittys and the Miquelons. The attendees ranged in ages from 5 to 15 and a good time was had by all. Every single youth at the outing caught fish and many caught numbers into the double digits. Several of our attendees brought in hogs in the five pound plus range and one of the youth hooked into a ten pounder (it got away and is now the stuff of tall tales and legends – it gets bigger each and every time the story is told, and is sure to be a special memory for the ages…the one that got away). Rainbows, Browns, and few Cutthroats were caught and released. Special thanks to the gang from Feather-Craft – Evan Muskopf, Mike Jacobs, and Mike Jackson – when a fish needed to be caught, the big guns came to the rescue. These guys were an amazing help and really made the whole trip. Pat Hummert, Malcom Royse, and Jim Wallace were there representing Ozark Fly Fishers and made a huge difference. We were also thankful to have Pat and Chet Smith hang out with us at lunchtime (Pat is a longtime Ozark Fly Fisher friend and Mountain Home, Arkansas local and is very involved in Dry Run Creek and the current improvement program along with Dave Whitlock and others). Thanks again to all the families, volunteers and Feather-Craft and Ozark Fly Fishers for a wonderful outing. We plan on doing this again next year and making it an annual event. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 10 Casting for Recovery By Patti Hummert Casting for Recovery® (CFR), founded in 1996, is a national non-profit support and educational program for breast cancer survivors. We enhance the lives of breast cancer survivors by offering no-cost retreats tailored to promote and support mental and physical healing through shared experiences and the learning of new skills. At the end of 2008 we have served 3,500 women through the delivery of 269 retreats, helped by over 1,000 volunteers nationwide. Through 2½-day retreats, the sport of fly-fishing is used to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. The effective balance between the physical benefits of the gentle exercise provided by fly-fishing and the counseling curriculum benefits women at any age and any stage of treatment or recovery. The program allows women to get away from their cancer, while providing support from the medical/psychosocial professionals present at every retreat. Missouri has provided CFR retreat to survivors in this state since 2004. OFF has supported the Missouri program since that time. This year there will be two retreats held at Windrush Trout Farm, just south of St. James Missouri. If you would like to make a personal donation, please contact Patti Hummert. If you are interested in providing assistance to the participants on the river as a “River Helper”, please contact Brian Ellis. The dates River Helpers are needed are Wednesday October 14 and Sunday October 18. If you are a breast cancer survivor, or know someone who would be interested please share this information. There is no charge to the participants to attend this remarkable retreat. But, they must be prepared to have fun, relax, make new friends and enjoy gourmet meals. The deadline to sign up for the opportunity to attend, as a participant is August 3rd. You may register with just a toll-free phone call to 1-888-553-3500. If you would like any additional information, please feel free to contact: Patti Hummert, Missouri CFR Coordinator, at 314-477-9319. Brian Ellis, River Helper Coordinator at 314-822-1819 Project Healing Waters By Jim Wallace The Project Healing Waters committee is planning an outing at Westover farms on September 2, 2009. We have approval from the VA to take 5 Veterans for a day on the water. We will be leaving Jefferson Barracks approximately 8:00am and leave Westover around 2:00pm. We may need two or three experienced fly fishers to help the Vets on the water. We also will need assorted flies (Wooly Buggers, Cracklebacks, etc) for the Vets. If anyone would like to contribute flies for the cause or would like to spend a day with those who have given so much to us please contact Clint Carpenter 636-387-9775 [email protected] or Jim Wallace 314-452-9904 [email protected]. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 11 Membership Report By Dave Hass Last reported membership on 5-12-2009 New memberships since 5-12-2009 Former members rejoining since 5-12-2009 Total memberships as of 6-11-2009 313 3 1 317 A year ago (June 2, 2008) 330 Annual gain or (loss) (13) (3.9%) Welcome the following new members StreetSmart Solutions, Inc. Marvin Hays Webster Groves, MO Dan Angeli & Family St. Louis, MO Teak Phillips Saint Louis, MO 63139 Barb & Wil Ostmann Gerald, MO Mill Creek Stream Team Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 12 Random Thoughts – July 2009 By Ty Livingstone THE GOOD OLE DAYS…OR NOT! My guess is nobody noticed, but just in case you did, I wanted to let you know that I took the last two months off from writing. I was not experiencing writer’s block (known as Verbiage Expulsion Dysfunction in medical circles) but rather was battling a bad attitude. My mother used to say “if you can’t say something nice about somebody don’t say it” and frankly, I just could not think of one damn nice thing to say. I had been struggling with the national news getting me down and just when I thought I had a handle on my emotions Michael Jackson went off and passed on. I think we saw that one coming. Anyway, I was trying to get positive and just could not get out of my rut. So, I listened to dear ole mom and didn’t say anything. However, I felt compelled to write this month and thought I would just rattle off a few “random thoughts”. Here goes. We struggle with the present…we look to the future with uncertainty…we look back at the past with a fuzzy perspective. What do you mean by fuzzy, you say? We romance that which wasn’t so great. So I am driving down the street the other day and I see a bumper sticker for McCain / Palin and I says to myself, “myself, the election is over and those folks need to get over it.” A few miles down the road, I see a Kerry / Gore bumper sticker and it dawned on me that this is a very common occurrence. And to be very honest with you, I don’t get it…they look like sore losers. If your team does not win, you need to move on. Work hard on the next election, campaign, game, whatever…but let the past go (writer’s note: I am preaching primarily to myself here). Move on…heal thyself…put your energy into something that will change the world – at the very least, take a kid fishing. Pay it forward. On another topic, what is up with people talking at the movies…the movies are too darned expensive these days (even with my senior citizen discount) and they usually aren’t worth the shekels. But the least several times that I have gone and have had people around me talking to each other during the movie. They run the “friendly reminder” prior to the show and you think they would get it. Kids texting, adults talking, phones ringing and on and on. I start with the dirty Random Thoughts (continued) look, graduate to loud sssshhhh’s and eventually change seats. None of it seems to work. Woe is me. Next rant – Major League Baseball games…baseball used to be a quiet sport (now, I think fly fishing has the lock on this market) and we would go to games, keep score, converse, and enjoy a hot dog and a beer on a summer day. Now, we have big screens everywhere, images flashing, music blaring, stuff being shot into the stadium and more. I feel like I am watching the MTV version of baseball and the whole experience is on steroids (well now…maybe it really is on steroids!). I find myself going to less and less games. It is more about the money than good baseball fans. Most folks are not even watching the game. If you are watching on television, you have the guy behind home plate in the expensive seats talking on the cell phone and waving at the camera. Does he realize how stupid he looks? Apparently not. And now, for my final rant…folks that make a conscious decision to run red lights…not only do they run the risk of getting a ticket, but they could kill somebody. In fact, they do kill people. It is absolutely nuts! I will just say this about that – if somebody runs a red light and hits me, they better kill me or die, because if I can crawl out of my car and make my way to them, I will finish the job if necessary. Okay…now I feel better that I vented. Now for the good stuff – if you need some therapy (and I apparently do!), take yourself fishing. Better yet, take somebody you care about with you. Even better, take a young person. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Ozark Fly Fishers July 2009 Page 13 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events July 18 Current River Water Quality Monitoring and BBQ July 23 Monthly meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm - Paul Cieslewicz MDC Southern Mo. (Smallmouth) August 21 -22 Montauk Outing August 27 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm - Jim Rodgers, Bennett Springs and Roaring River September 2 Project Healing Waters Outreach Program – Westover Farms September 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing September 24 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm - Mike Kruse October 10 - Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) October 14 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program –volunteers needed October 18 Casting for Recovery Outreach Program - volunteers needed October 22 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm - Norm Crisp (Streamside Adventures) October 24 Trivia Night November 3 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm November 13 – 14 Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing November 26 No Monthly Meeting December 1 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm December 17 Monthly Meeting - Fly Tying and Fishing Knots January 5, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm February 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm March 2, 2010 Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm Officers: Directors: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster : Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis Ozark Fly Fishers Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 440181 St. Louis, MO 63144 July 2009 Page 14 June 2009 June Meeting - BBQ and Casting at In This Issue Tilles Park, 5:00 PM June Meeting Trivia Night Members Only Classes Stream Team Name Tags Taneycomo Outing Fishing Library Mountauk Update Conservation Fly of the Month FFF Membership Report Calendar Officers The June Meeting will be at Tillis Park June 25th. Come by for an evening of BBQ and casting on the lake. BBQ and drinks provided by Ozark Fly Fishers! Casting instructors will be available to help refine your cast. 'Discover Nature - Women' program Ozark Trivia Night ! Mark your calendar for the 1st Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia Night on October 24th. The contest will be held at Wild Acres Gym which is at the corner of Ashby and Midland in Overland. Teams will consist of a maximum of 8 players and the entry is $120 per table. Our committee will be meeting sometime after the Fourth of July to determine more of the details. We are not taking reservations yet but call me with any questions at 618-659-1579 or 618-570-9127. You can also send me an email at [email protected]. Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education Through Fly Fishing 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 4 5 9 10 11 11 12 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 2 Member Only Classes We are in the process of planning next year’s Members Only classes. Input for class topics would be greatly appreciated. At this point in time, obviously fly tying is a topic at the top of the list. However, the type of flies you are interested in learning how to tie is open for discussion. Any suggestions should be forwarded to either Earl Schenberg ([email protected]) or Malcolm Royse ( 636-329-1504 or [email protected]). The dates for the Powder Valley classes will be on the first Tuesday of each month and are as follows. Nov 3, 2009; Dec 1, 2009; Jan 5, 2010; Feb. 2, 2010; and Mar. 2, 2010. The starting time will be 6:30 pm, so we will have more time for programs before we have to end at 9:00 pm. 'Discover Nature - Women' program Stream Team # 31 Mill Creek Stream Team Activity We will be doing a Mill Creek Stream Team activity on July 11, 2009, beginning at 9:00 am. We will meet at Dr. Bohegan’s house and afterwards, fishing Mill Creek. All of you that are interested in helping with this activity are asked to call Malcolm Royse at (636) 329-1504 or email at [email protected]. STREAM TEAM #31 (CURRENT RIVER) WANTS YOU!! BARBEQUE / FISHING / MONITORING OUTING July 18, 2009, 9:00 a.m. at Tan Vat Stream Team #31 is holding a combination Water Quality Monitoring and Barbeque. Come join us to help with the monitoring and enjoy a barbeque lunch. We will be doing three of the four-part monitoring procedures: Stream Discharge, Visual Survey, and Water Chemistry. The Macroinvertabrate part will be done later in the fall. Anyone who thinks they may be interested in water monitoring is welcome to help out (whether you have had training or not). Those without training will have an opportunity to get their “feet wet”. Once the monitoring is complete, the club will provide a barbeque lunch. After lunch you will be free to fish the Current River or at Montauk State Park. Remember to bring your hat, sunscreen, and a lawn chair. If you plan to help out, please call Scott Darrough at 314-560-1335 so that we may have an approximate head-count. Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 3 Name Tags It is very helpful, with more than three hundred members, for people to give a quick glance at your name badge and see who you are. Lots of effort goes into making the badges and bringing them to the meetings, so please make an effort to wear yours. If you don’t have one (basically, you lost yours), then let us know and we will replace it. Dave Haas has a number of name badges in his possession and would like for everyone to “grab and go” with them. Also, bonus tickets to the raffle are an added incentive if you are wearing your name badge. Thank you in advance for your cooperation! Taneycomo Outing Taneycomo September 10th, 11th, 12th Taneycomo Lake, located in Branson Missouri, is one of the top tailwaters in the country. Please join us on a three day outing -- you will have a chance to fish for a state-record trout. A local guide will give us a talk on Friday night and we will have a BBQ lunch at the pavilion by the damn on Saturday. Accommodations: Lilleys' Landing, 367 River Lane, Branson, MO, phone 1-888-Lilleys You can see the various room layouts @ http://lilleyslanding.com . If you need info on the area, Phil Lilley has a great forum full of information about Taney and all of the other fisheries in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas……Forum: http://ozarkanglers.com/forums/ Lilleys’ Landing, offers several room layouts; lake front, sleep two-four, covered decks, stove, fridge, micros, coffee pot, dishes, utensils etc. and phone, TV, swimming pool, Jon boats, guide service, wi-fi access, fly shop. Let me know ahead of time if you can attend even if you won't be staying @ Lilleys' so that you can be included in the BBQ lunch. Please don’t delay the rooms are in short supply. Call or email us regarding availability and further details: Mark or Jo Thalhammer, 636-928-6242 email: [email protected] Fishing Library The Ozark Fly Fishers has an ongoing loaner library in place which is always looking for new or used videos/DVD’s to add to this collection. If you have any videos/DVD’s that you are no longer viewing and wish to donate to the club, bring them to a members meeting and get them to Malcolm Royse or Jim Wallace. Also, if you have checked out anything from the library in the past, please remember to bring them to the meeting and return them so that another member may enjoy them. Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 4 Montauk Update By: Ted Calcaterra [email protected] (636) 305-1085 The club will have its annual Montauk outing on the weekend of August 21-23rd. We have 18 motel rooms signed up as well as the Searcy Room. The deadline for signing up this year is Sunday August 16th. This is a very popular event so please make sure to sign up as early as possible. As usual, the club will be hosting dinner on Saturday night, which will be catered by the lodge. The Searcy room will also be available to us all day Saturday and Sunday for those who want to get some tying done in addition to the fantastic fishing available. All rooms include two double beds, TV, etc but no kitchen. They have a walk out back door and a picnic table. These are the rooms next to the lodge. Tax is included and all prices subject to change. Make checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers c/o Ted Calcaterra 452 Hamilton Meadows, Fenton MO 63026. The rates are as follows: o o $130 per room for both Friday and Saturday night. $12 per person for the Saturday night dinner. 'Discover Nature - Women' program Discover Nature - Women' program Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 5 Conservation by Wallis W Warren “In the 19th century, we devoted our best minds to exploring nature. In the 20th century, we devoted ourselves to controlling and harnessing it. In the 21st century, we must devote ourselves to restoring it.” — Stephen Ambrose Ozark National Scenic Riverways General Management Plan ~ Action needed ~Save the Current & Jack’s Fork Rivers A plan that will establish the national riverways management direction for the next 15 to 20 years is currently being drafted by the National Park Service. It doesn’t take much thought to realize the significance of this plan to the future of Missouri’s most treasured waterways. As fly fishers we spend more time directly interacting with Missouri’s streams and rivers than most other outdoor participants. Do you have concerns about changes you have seen over the last few years, or decades? Are you satisfied with the condition of our waters, or do you see room for improvement or even alarm? Now is the time to voice your views, and it is imperative that everyone participate in this public comment period. We ~ each of us individually ~ are the public. Who is better qualified to voice concerns and recommendations than those of us that fly fish, spending untold hours studying the waters and fish inhabiting these special places? Primary concerns to the future quality of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) are: 1. Overdevelopment by the Park Service 2. Illegal private developments which violate publicly-owned conservation easements 3. Excessive numbers and concentrations of commercial horse use 4. Out of control abuse by large numbers of off-road, ATV and four-wheeled drive vehicles Currently, four alternatives are under consideration. One is a ‘no-action’ alternative (no changes to current practices) and three action alternatives: A. Park managers would create conditions that recall earlier days along the Jacks Fork and Current rivers. More opportunities for traditional, non-mechanized forms of recreation and activities that are quieter, less crowded and slower paced. Protection for native plant and animal habitat would be part of these conditions. Reversal of much of the overuse would be fixed, such as closing illegal roads and trails. Slower-paced activities such as floating, fishing, camping would be enjoyed, with lower horsepower motorboats, johnboats allowed on some sections. The Big Spring area would be proposed for wilderness designation. B. Park managers would try to help people discover some of the less obvious but special things about the park, such as caves, unique water habitat through learning centers, new trails and ranger programs designed to help visitors understand their Ozark heritage (both history and nature). The current popular activities would continue, but managed in balance with other discovery and learning opportunities. As with Alternative A, the Big Spring area would be proposed for wilderness designation. C. Increasing the public’s access to outdoor recreation, like what visitors do now for fun would be the main focus. Providing for community and family gatherings would be a major goal. More facilities like campsites, picnic areas, boat ramps and trails would be provided, more staff would be needed and the Big Spring tract would not be proposed for wilderness designation. continued next page Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 6 Conservation (continued) Different areas of the park would carry zone designations to describe how they would be managed in the future. There are seven designations: Developed Zone, Resource-based Recreation Zone, Natural Zone, Primitive Zone, Mixed-Use Zone, Seasonal Mixed-Use Zone and Non-motorized Zone. (For definitions of these zones and suggested locations see the National Park Service’s spring/summer 2009 newsletter #3 in the link provided) Public open houses will be held this month to discuss these alternatives. They will be held 6/22 - Van Buren; 6/23 – Eminence; 6/24 – Columbia; 6/26 Clayton. Written and emailed comments will be accepted through July 31, 2009 For a detailed copy of the plan and comment form, please go to: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/ozar or mail your letter to: Superintendent, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, PO Box 490 Van Buren MO 63965 A 25 minute DVD, ‘Why We Must Save the Current River, Again’ has been prepared by the ‘Friends of Ozark Riverways’ which tells the story of the Riverways, reviewing the history and illustrating the issues that need to be addressed in this new management plan. If you would like additional information on the proposed plan or would like to view this DVD or present it to a group or club, please contact me: Wallis W Warren 314-422-3455 [email protected] A Summit on the Future of Missouri Outdoors Columbia, Mo. May 28 – 29 Conservation Federation of Missouri, Audubon Missouri, Bass Pro Shops, National Wild Turkey Federation (George Clark Chapter) Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy and others invited OFF to participate as part of a group of Missouri outdoor leaders to share ideas and strategies to achieve the vision for the future of Missouri. The vision stated: “75 years from now, a quality outdoor experience will be as much a part of Missourians’ lifestyles as today, or more so, and opportunities to experience the outdoors will be as diverse and readily available as today, or more so.” Missourians have demonstrated their political and financial commitment to the state’s outdoors in unprecedented fashion. ‘Outdoors’ goes beyond any one agency or organization and is defined as ‘soil, water, air, fish, forests, wildlife, nature, natural communities and out-of-doors recreation. Today, Missouri’s social and natural landscape presents change and opportunity as perhaps never before, such as: Increased population and development – the outdoor appeal and open space are at risk to infrastructure development, land-use change and inevitable growth – a dynamic tension between human endeavor and natural development. The ways people perceive and use the outdoors – differences in outdoor participation by distinct generations, by ethnic and racial groups, by gender, by urban, suburban and rural residents and decreases in popular forms of outdoor activity. continued next page Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 The Future of Missouri Outdoors (continued) Non-native and invasive plant and animal species have affected the viability of native species. The Missouri Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy identifying Conservation Opportunity Areas in which management strategies could conserve both wildlife and the natural systems on which they depend. The value and stability of a dollar – it takes approximately $4 today to buy the outdoor services and facilities that $1 purchased in 1976. How do we contribute our visions for Missouri Outdoors to the next generations? Featured speakers and panelists including Governor Jay Nixon, Dr Stephen Kellert, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Dr Larry Brown, Department of Geography, University of Missouri and Directors of Departments of Conservation (John Hoskins) Natural Resources (Mark Templeton) Agriculture (Jon Hagler) US Forest Service Supervisor (Dave Whittekiend) and US Fish & Wildlife Service Field Supervisor (Charlie Scott) presented valuable perspectives for consideration of the complexity of the issues facing Missouri’s outdoors, but at the same time demonstrated a mutual commitment to protecting and preserving our resources to guarantee future generations a quality outdoor experience. Page 7 Of the many priorities established, it was interesting that the primary concern was conserving plants, animals in their native habitats, second was protecting clean and healthy water ~ quality and quantity (including ground and surface) followed by a long list of other concerns. Of the top 5 recommendations, the primary immediate goal was ‘Educating Missourians about the Natural Outdoors’, another was to ‘Be a Mentor’ – take someone with you to share an outdoor experience. Ozark Fly Fishers are focused on both of these goals through our educational and outreach programs. Remember, a mentor is a one on one program ~ as was emphasized during the program ~ one person can make a difference. Please support your membership by looking for opportunities to implement the objectives of Ozark Fly Fishers: * To promote fly fishing as the most sportsmanlike way of fishing and preserving game fish through practicing catch & release * To practice conservation of our natural resources and support efforts for improving environmental quality * To provide advice, education, and assistance to promote the art of fly fishing * To demonstrate applied techniques in fly fishing, tying, casting and related subjects A full day of lectures and symposiums were held on Thursday to prepare the participants for the breakout workshops held on Friday. Facilitated sessions were held to compile attendees’ ideas, strategies and solutions to accomplish key actions and overcome major barriers to enhancing Missouri Outdoors. The diverse group provided valuable perspectives and recommendations which will be compiled into a working plan. There are two opportunities available for you personally to assist in implementation of these objectives: continued next page Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 8 VOLUNTEER-DEMONSTRATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL MEMBERS Be a Mentor and Participate ~ we need your help! Race for the Rivers Festival (Frontier Park, St Charles Mo Aug 29, 2009) Greenway Network has invited OFF to participate in casting and fly tying demonstrations to be held in conjunction with their festival promoting Clean Water Education, Restoration and Recreation. This will be a fun and casual environment that will allow youth as well as adults the opportunity to watch demonstrations by members of OFF. Please contact me if you have an interest in planning and/or participating in this fun event. For details check: www.racefortherivers.org Outdoor Days (Lake Springfield, Springfield Mo Oct 17-18 2009) Bass Pro Shop has invited OFF to partner in a project to promote fly fishing, tying and other aspects of the sport to youth during their Outdoor Days program. Please contact me if you have an interest in planning and/or participating in one of many demonstrations/classes to be offered. For details check: www.basspro.com/fitness contact: Wallis W Warren: 314 422 3455 [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 9 Fly of theMonth by Al Bourisaw The Frog I first saw the Frog pattern at the Winter FYAO Outing of the Ozark Fly Fishers. Earl Swederska had the frog and was throwing it into the sauna to demonstrate how it always righted itself to a natural position. Earl told me he had gotten the pattern from the Cabela’s store in Hazelwood. Efforts to buy the frog were fruitless, so I decided to tie the pattern myself. And as they say, “the rest is history.” Materials: Thread: Hook: Body: Underbody: Weed Guard: Eyes Socks: Eyes: Legs: 3/0 White Mono Mustad 1/0 3366 Green Fun Foam 3mm (Found at Hobby Lobby) White Fun Foam 2mm (Found at Hobby Lobby) 12 to 20 pound mono Rainy’s Round Float Foam Stick on eyes Medium round rubber legs in white and green Tying Instructions: 1. Prepare materials prior to starting the tying process. Underbody - Cut a strip of white 2 mm Fun Foam about 1/4” in width. Body – Cut the 3mm green Fun Foam in the shape of a kite. The kite should be 1-1/2” in length and 1” in width. [Fun Foam in 2mm size may also be used.] Legs – Split the sleeve of round rubber legs into strip that have three individual round rubber legs in each strip (be careful not to split the three). Cut these three connected rubber legs into strips of about 2 ¾” long. 2. Mount the hook in the vise and start the thread directly above the barb. Wrap the thread down the bend to a point halfway down the bend. Wind the thread back to a point above the barb. 3. Cut a piece of weed guard about 3-4 inches in length. Attach the weed guard to the hook starting at a point above the barb and winding down the bend to a point halfway down the bend. Wind the thread back to the point above the barb. 4. Attach the body (kite) to the top of the hook. The tip of the kite should be even with the front of the hook eye. Attach th e body by winding the thread at a point above the gap. 5. Turn the vise over (if a rotating vise – turn the hook upside down if not using a rotating vise) and attach the underbody. Cut an arrow on one end of the underbody. Tie the underbody onto the hook above the barb at the base of the arrow. Stick the underbody threw the point of the hook to keep it out of the way. 6. Rotate the vise so that the body is once again on top. Pull back the body and underbody and wrap the thread on the shank tow ard the eye of the hook for a distance of just over half the shank. 7. Place a green rubber leg strip on top of a white rubber leg strip and tie them along the shank on the far side of the hook. Tie the legs back to the body. Repeat this step only tying the legs to the near side of the hook shank. 8. Bring the thread forward towards the eye to a point about two eye lengths behind the eye. Again rotate the hook belly up. Cut a short 1 to 1-1/4” piece of eye socket material and figure-eight it to the hook shank. 9. Rotate the hook once again so that the body is again on top. Again, using two strips of round leg material (green on top) tie in the material behind the eye socket material. Even portions of leg material should be on both sides of the hook. Return the thread to the ¼” from the rear of the hook shank. 10. Bring the underbody forward. Tie it off ¼” from the rear of the hook shank. Lift the underbody and wrap the thread to a point just behind the front legs. Pull the underbody forward and tie it off at this point with a couple of wraps of thread. Again, lift the underbody and bring the thread forward to a point in front of the eye socket – behind the hook eye. Bring the underbody forward Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 10 and tie it off. Trim the excess underbody. 11. Apply super glue along the top of the shank from the base of the body to behind the hook eye. Be sure to put a dab of super glue on the top of each of the eye sockets. Bring the body forward super gluing it to the top of the shank and eye sockets. Tie off the tip of the kite (body) behind the hook eye. 12. Bring the weed guard forward and tie it off behind the eye. [I like to bring the weed guard through the eye from the underside of the hook. With finger and thumb, press this section (bottom) of weed guard flat against the body and make a couple of wraps of t hread to hold it in place. Again, with the thumb and finger, press the section of weed guard on the top side flat against the body and secure with thread. Cut off the weed guard tag and form a nice head.] 13. With the 3/0 mono thread, tie a knot around each of the four rubber legs. With a bobkin, separate the rubber legs into individual sections. 14. Super glue the head of the fly, the thread holding the weed guard in place at the rear of the fly, and on each knot on the legs (Use a tooth pick with super glue on it to apply the glue to the knot on each leg.) Fishing Fish the frog in and near lily pads and weed beds. The action should be similar to the real thing. Use your imagination when fishing the pattern. Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) By Bob Temper The Federation of Fly Fishers is a 43 year old international non-profit organization dedicated to the betterment of the sport of fly fishing through Conservation, Restoration and Education. The Federation of Fly Fishers and its Councils are the only organized advocate for fly fishers on an national and regional level. Today the FFF has grown to over 300 clubs, and the organization is moving more and more toward being an organization comprised of individual members. Our goal is to support fisheries conservation and educational programs for all fish and all waters. Anywhere fly fishers have an interest, the FFF can and does play a role. If you are not already a member of FFF, you should consider joining. The FFF 2009 National Conclave will be held July 28 - Aug 1, 2009. at The Embassy Suites Hotel Conference Center - Loveland, CO For more information on it see: http://www.federationconclave.org/ OFF is a member of the Southern Council (there are 15 councils) of the FFF. Our council Conclave is the premier event of the Federation of Fly Fishers Southern Council, held each year in Mountain Home, Arkansas. It will be held Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, October 1st thru October 3rd, 2009. The business meeting will be held Sunday morning the 4th. For more information on the conclave see: http://www.southerncouncilfff.org/conclave/conclave.php Both of these conclaves offer numerous classes, fly tying exhibitions, vendors and a proximity to great fishing. OFF members will again set up the casting pool prior to the Southern Council Conclave and conduct the Jerry Clark Memorial Casting Games on Friday of the conclave at the pool. Look for additional information on how you can participate in the next newsletter. For additional information, contact me at 314-606-2067 Bob Temper Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 11 Membership Report by Dave Hass Last reported membership on 5-12-2009 New memberships since 5-12-2009 Former members rejoining since 5-12-2009 Total memberships as of 6-11-2009 304 8 1 313 A year ago (June 2, 2008) 326 Annual gain or (loss) (13) (4.0%) Welcome the following new members Peter & Cathleen Bilardello St. Louis, MO Fin-Alley Fishing Charter, Inc. Lake Worth, FL John Bogosian St. Louis, MO Stephen Finch & Family Wildwood, MO Peter K. Droste St. Charles, MO John F. Furlong St. Peters, MO Chris Gill & Family University City, MO Billy McKinney Wentzville, MO Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events July 11- Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) July 18 – Current River Water Quality Monitoring and BBQ July 23 - Monthly meeting - casting and BBQ at Tillis 5:00 pm October 10 - Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) October 22 - Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm October 24 - Trivia Night August 21 -23 Montauk Outing August 27 Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm November 3 - Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm November 13 – 14 - Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing November 26 - Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm Sept 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing September 24 - Monthly Meeting - Queeny Park 7:00pm Discover Nature - Women' program December 1- Member Only Class – Powder Valley 6:30 pm Ozark Fly Fishers June 2009 Page 12 Officers: Directors: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer –Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster : Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 May 2009 May Meeting “The History of Mill Creek" will be presented at our next club meeting on May 28 by Dr. George Bohigian. He will speak on the directions to "secret" fishing spots, best lures and techniques to fish on Mill Creek. In addition, he will highlight the original settlers, hydrology, entomology and the original stocking of the wild McCloud Rainbow trout. The surrounding natural wonders, the creation of the BCA (Bohigian Conservation Area) and the contributions and present activities of the Ozark Fly Fishers and future plans for Mill Creek will be discussed. In This Issue May Meeting Presidents Message Stream Team Name Tags Taneycomo Outing Youth Outing Fly of the Month Conservation Project Healing Waters Membership Calendar Officers 1 2 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. Trivia Night ! The 1st annual Ozark Fly Fishers Trivia night will be held on October 24th at the Wild Acres Park Gym in Overland, MO. Mark your calendar! Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education Through Fly Fishing The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 2 President’s Message by Mike Swederska With the wet and mild temperatures we are experiencing, Tic and Chiggers are having a bumper year. Since I do most of my personal fishing in the woods and not in the water I thought that I might share some tricks on not getting these little critters all over my body. First and for most, I wear my chest waders even though it is wet wading weather. If you can purchase all you’re summers fishing clothing with the new bug repellent already in the cloth you would be that much further ahead of the game. Here are some really great precautions I have picked up off the net over the years that do work for me. 1. Use a product with 20% DEET or higher on both skin and clothing. Carefully apply the repellent by hand to your face, neck, and ears – you don't want DEET in your eyes or mouth! Adults should apply DEET products to young children. You may need to reapply DEET products after several hours. 2. Apply permethrin to clothing, hiking boots, tents, and camp chairs. Permethrin products should never be used on skin. It remains effective on clothing through several washings. Permethrin is sold under the names Permanone and Duranon. 3. Wear light-colored clothing. You'll have a better chance of seeing a dark tick crawling on you before it makes its way to your skin. 4. Wear long pants with sneakers or hiking boots. Tuck your pant legs into your socks, and keep your shirt tucked into your waistband. In areas where ticks are abundant, you might even want to wrap some duct tape around your ankles, over the top of your socks. You'll look ridiculous, but it works. 5. Outfit yourself in bug repellent apparel. Want a sporty, outdoor look with built-in tick protection? Ex-Officio sells a line of clothing that is pretreated with permethrin. The treatment lasts through up to 70 washings. 6. Stay on the trail. Ticks hang out in high vegetation, waiting for a passing host. When your leg brushes through the vegetation, the tick transfers to your body. Walk on designated trails, and avoid blazing your own through meadows or other high vegetation areas. You'll avoid ticks and leave a minimal impact on the wild places we love. 7. Avoid tick-infested places. In some places, ticks may be too abundant to avoid, even with the best repellents and long pants. If you venture a few feet into a wooded area or field and find your legs covered with ticks, turn around. 8. Be vigilant – do a daily tick check. Strip down and search all those places that ticks love to hide: in your hair, under your arms, between your legs, behind the knees, and even in your belly button. 9. Put your clothes in the dryer, and tumble them on high heat. Research shows many ticks can make it through the washing machine, even when you wash in hot water. Most ticks will die during a cycle in the hot, dry air of your clothes dryer, though. 10. Check your pets and your kids before letting them loose in the house. Ticks can easily drop off on carpets or furniture, where they will wait for a blood meal to come along. Give Fido's fur a check, and make Junior remove clothing and do a tick check. The best way to remove a tick is to pull it off gently, leaving the tick and its mouthparts intact. This can be difficult because some ticks cement their mouthparts into the skin. Every effort should be made to remove this cement if it does not come out with the tick. Applying heat, alcohol, petroleum jelly or fingernail polish to an embedded tick is not effective. The following is the recommended procedure: Use blunt curved tweezers or a thread. Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with a steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk the tick because this may cause the mouth parts to detach and remain in the skin. You should pull firmly enough to lift up the skin. Hold this tension for 3 to 4 minutes and the tick will back out. DO NOT squeeze, crush, or puncture the body of the tick because its fluids may contain bacteria. Immediately dispose of the tick. If you have any concerns, put the tick in a plastic bag and freeze it. If you get sick you can take the dead tick with you when you see your provider. Immediately wash your hands and the affected area with soap and water. Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 3 STREAM TEAM # 31 By Bob Temper The next dates established for Water Quality Monitoring are: Mill Creek – 7/11/09, 10/10/ 09 and 1/16/10 Current River – 7/18/09, at 9:00 a.m. Blue Springs Creek – TBD For those wanting to attend additional water quality monitoring classes, check the stream team web site at: http://www.mostreamteam.org/stactivities.asp 20TH Birthday Celebration The following message was received form St. Louis Area Stream Team Representative, Darlene Haun. Hi Bob, As an active St. Louis area Stream Teamer I wanted to send you a special reminder about our Stream Celebration Weekend to celebrate the 20th Birthday of the Stream Team Program coming up on June 13-14 in Waynesville. Deadline for registrations is May 15. I would LOVE to have a really strong showing from the St. Louis area because so many good things have happened there! And further I'd really like to see a good showing from the Ozark Fly Fishers because you guys have so much to brag about water quality monitoring and stream bank restoration work. Waynesville is only about a two-hour drive from here. Its reasonable to carpool for a visit on Sat. or on Sun. or else use free camping or pay for a motel in the area for staying for both days. You can access more information and the registration form here http://mostreamteam.org/STbday.asp. Please reply or call if you have any questions and help me spread the word about this great opportunity to enjoy the river and celebrate Mill Creek Tree Planting Tom James of Black Dog Sports, a video production company, is a member of Heart of America Fly Fishers. He attended the Mill Creek tree planting event, shot some video and did some interviews. The video can be viewed at: http://www.blackdogsports.com/BDSmillcreektrees_video.html Name Tags Don’t Do As I Do, Do As I Say! Name Tags: True confessions – I forgot my name badge at last month’s meeting. However, I am asking all of our members to wear your OFF Nam e Badge at every meeting! It is very helpful, with more than three hundred members, for people to give a quick glance at your name badge and see who you are. Lots of effort goes into making the badges and bringing them to the meetings, so please make an effort to wear yours. If you don’t have one (basically, you lost yours), then let us know and we will replace it. Dave Haas has a number of name badges in his possession and would like for everyone to “grab and go” with them. Also, bonus tickets to the raffle are an added incentive if you are wearing your name badge. Thank you in advance for your cooperation! Thanks… Kevin Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 4 Taneycomo Outing Following is important information regarding the Taneycomo outing: Date: three nights 9/10, 9/11 and 9/12 Accommodations: Lilleys' Landing 367 River Lane Branson, Missouri, 65616 1-888-Lilleys You can see the various room layouts @ http://lilleyslanding.com Phil Lilley has a great forum full of information about Taney and all of the other fisheries in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas……Forum: http://ozarkanglers.com/forums/ Presently they are holding four cabins for us…. Units # 11, 12, 13, 14 $ 79/night (Total cost per room, $265.44 inc. tax) All are lake front, sleep two-four, covered decks, stove, some w/ ovens, fridge, micros, coffee pot, dishes, utensils etc. and phone, TV, swimming pool, Jon boats, guide service, fly shop. A local guide will give us a talk on Friday night. We will have a BBQ lunch at the pavilion by the damn on Saturday. Saturday night we "could" have a fish fry if someone can bring home the bacon... Let me know ahead of time if you can attend even if you won't be staying @ Lilleys' so that you can be included in the BBQ lunch. We need a one night deposit ASAP as the rooms are in short supply and we can only expand the size of the outing as rooms are reserved. The balance is due by 8/1. Mail checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to: 27 Morning Wind Ct. St. Charles, Mo 63304 636-928-6242 Mark or Jo Thalhammer [email protected] GIVE A KID THE FISHING EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME! Youth Outing at Dry Run Creek – June 6th: Don’t miss this special opportunity to take a kids fishing – see the attached flyer for details – please submit your reservations to Kevin Miquelon at [email protected] or 314-753-3644 – we need to have a headcount for food, materials and helpers. Thanks! Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 5 AN EVENT YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS… PARENT / CHILD OUTING - SPECIAL YOUTH FISHING PROGRAM Saturday, June 6th, 2009 – ALL DAY Mountain Home, Arkansas at the fabled waters of Dry Run Creek Feather-Craft and Ozark Fly Fishers will be hosting a wonderful day just for the kids. If you are a parent, a grandparent, a great grandparent, an uncle, an aunt, or in any size, shape or form connected to a child under the age of 16, you should seriously consider taking them to this event. It is one of the most amazing places to fish for trout (rainbows, browns, brook, and cutthroats) on planet earth. There are reported to be more than 10,000 trout per mile. The requirements: 1) Flies only 2) Barbless Hooks only 3) Catch and Release only 4) Must be under 16 or handicapped. We will have all of the gear, stream-helpers (guides), lunch provided, and lots of other fun and giveaways for the kids. This is an absolutely amazing experience for the youth and you will have memories for you and them that will last a lifetime. If you would like to sign up, please contact Kevin Miquelon to make a reservation at [email protected] or 314-7533644. If you would like to get involved in getting kids hooked for life, we are looking for helpers also – everyone is welcome to join us! DETAILS: Lodging reservations are made on your own. Children (under 16) must be accompanied by an adult. Suggest arriving on Friday, June 5th – both camping and hotel options (see below). You can fish on Friday on your own and you will want o fish on Sunday if you have time. We will have the program all day on Saturday, June 6th, including lunch (provided). CAMPING: There is a campground (The Dam – Quarry Campground) just below the dam that is right next to Dry Run Creek and the Hatchery – this is your best option to be close. It accommodates tents, pop-ups and RV’s and has some services including showers. To reserve a campsite: http://www.recreation.gov Search” Camping / Arkansas / Dam – Quarry (AR), Norfork Lake, AR *Our team will be on campsites 15 through 20 and any sites in the park would work. HOTELS: If you wish to stay in a hotel room there are a number of options in Mountain Home, Arkansas (ZIP CODE if using Hotwire or Priceline is 72653) including: Holiday Inn Express, Ramada Inn, Hampton Inn, Days Inn, and many more… OTHER: Upon reserving your spot (by contacting Kevin Miquelon) you will receive directions and other instructions for the trip. Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 6 Fly of the Month Pat’s Nymph – Smoky Mountain Special Tied by Kevin Miquelon 04/23/09 at O.F.F. Meeting The Pat’s Nymph is one of those flies that Smoky Mountain fly fishing guides just love. It has a buggy look that fish can’t resist and it’s relatively quick and easy to tie. While the Pat’s Nymph is good year round, it’s particularly good in the spring since it’s a good representation of several aquatic insects. Hook: #12-14 Standard Nymph Hook Underbody: .010 - .015 Lead Free Wire Thread: 6/0 Black Tail: Brown Hackle Fibers Body: Any shaggy gray dubbing material like squirrel or muskrat. I particularly like Wapsi Sow-Scud dubbing Collar: Brown Hackle The Pat’s Nymph is excellent in a number of situations when nymphs are required. It’s a heavy fly and sinks well. This is important in cold water or turbulent water. It also makes for one half of an excellent dropper rig along with another nymph. Some anglers are turned off by the scraggly appearance of this somewhat ordinary looking fly, but it should not be ignored. Its drab color scheme imitates a variety of aquatic insects and its weight gets it down where the fish are. We’ve even noticed that fish seem to like it more as it gets chewed up. One of our fishing buddies used to grind the fly under his boot heel before tying it on and claimed that made it more enticing to fish. Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 7 Conservation by Wallis W Warren Here is a land where life is written in water – Thomas Hornsby Ferril Legislative Update: HB 246 – Sand & Gravel In the remaining days of the current legislative session, HB246 has been amended to include more favorable language, particularly reduction of the tonnage allowed to be removed by landowners without a permit (2000 tons vs 3000 tons) and perhaps the most important change – the removal of ‘political subdivisions’ from the exemption from obtaining a permit. The amended bill passed the Senate, however the bill was then tabled. With only a few days left in this session, we do not expect any further movement. Why is this important? Anyone that has set foot in a Missouri stream has experienced sand & gravel as part of the natural formation of our waterways. However, we have also seen streams choked by enormous amounts of sand and gravel ~ so many ask ‘what is wrong with removing this stuff?’ The issue we have with the ‘Sand and Gravel’ legislation is not the removal of gravel, or a landowners right or responsibility to manage their property. The issue is the manner in which this is removed, and the lack of effort to correct the source of the excessive gravel. A large part of the problem is the legacy of mismanaged land and water that commonly accepted practices have produced. From clear cutting, tilling farmland where erosion is an issue, allowing livestock to access streams damaging banks and polluting water, application of gravel to local roads that wash into streambeds with every storm, as well as the depletion of water flows through development and well drilling, there are a host of sources for this problem. To simply say that the gravel must be removed without also addressing the source is only putting a band aid on a much larger problem. Removal of the gravel without consideration of the impact the removal will have only adds to the problem The landowner that removes thousands of tons of gravel from ‘their’ section of stream will often create a much larger issue for those landowners upstream and downstream from their property, and permanently alter the stream for future generations. The permitting processes and regulations that are currently in place to allow gravel removal while protecting the streambed may cause some additional effort on the part of counties and landowners, but these guidelines take the larger responsibility of land stewardship into consideration. DNR Unclassified Streams Workgroup OFF representatives continue to participate with MDNR in stakeholders meetings to expand water quality standards as required by the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) through classification of those many thousands of miles of Missouri streams as yet unclassified, Apparent progress was made in the last session. After considering other state standards, it was established that most use a ‘default’ approach to classification (‘all waters of the state’) which is what we feel would be the most beneficial and expedient approach to use here in Missouri in order to meet the minimum standards and goals of the CWA. It is anticipated that the meetings will continue in order to establish working guidelines and implementation strategies to present with this recommendation to the Clean Water Commission. Why is stream classification important? Recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions have altered the CWA and how many Missouri streams are protected by this legislation. Approved in the 1970’s, the CWA provides basic protection to streams, rivers, lakes and wetlands. The Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 8 number of waters protected has changed since 2001. Almost 70% of Missouri streams currently classified are at risk of losing protection, as well as thousands of miles of wetlands. Those streams that are not yet classified are not even included in these waters. Without protection, our streams and rivers are at risk of becoming dumping grounds, with loss of fish and wildlife habitat as well as the loss of drinking water for over 2.5 million Missourians that rely on streams for drinking water. The most common argument against any regulation is that it ‘costs too much’. As water quality decreases, the cost of treatment increases. This is a valid concern. As one MSD representative commented, ‘as long as people can flush their toilet or pour something down their drain, they don’t want to know what happens after that’. They aren’t willing to pay to improve the infrastructure or implement the procedures necessary to improve the water supply. Well, keep in mind that we all live downstream from someone. What communities or individuals dump into our water doesn’t disappear, it becomes the neighbor’s problem, or the community’s downstream. A recent survey showed that clean water is the most important conservation issue to nearly 97% of Missourians. That means we must be willing to alter our practices as well as pay the price for improving our water quality. The biggest thing you can do to help is to let your legislator know not only that you are concerned about water quality, but that you support funding to improve our waste water treatment plants as well as regulate polluters. For additional information about the Unclassified Streams Workgroup go to: http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/cwforum/adv-uncl-waters-wetlands.htm Project Healing Waters by Clint Carpenter We asked for help and some of you in the club has responded. Thanks to Jim Wallace and Don Frain things go so much easier during our Monday evening classes. On the May 10th class Jim Wallace brought his friend Nick who was great helping Jim Volkman teach casting to a couple Vets while J. W. Don and I showed 5 Vets how to tie. My grandson Michael came with me and also helped with the tying and casting. There is still a need for a couple more people to help me do an afternoon tying class. The afternoon class will be taught to Vets that don't have the ability to walk. This would be a one on one teaching exercise. If you are retired or know someone who is retired or work a night shift talk to them about helping. These classes will also be on Mondays from 2:30 to 3:30. There is still a need for more help during the 6:00 class. As always thanks to those of you helping us make a few Vets get through a rough time in their lives. They enjoy the hour and we do also. The therapists are really thankful for the work the club is doing. Again thanks for those of you helping. Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 9 Membership Report by Dave Haas Last reported membership on 4-11-2009 Deceased member since last report New memberships since 4-11-2009 Former members rejoining since 4-11-2009 Total memberships as of 5-12-2009 A year ago (May 5, 2008) Annual gain or (loss) 300 -1 4 1 304 320 (16) (5.0%) Welcome New Members Welcome to our newest members Bream Bugs Don Davis Chesterfield, MO (Commercial Member) Ray Higley & Amy Wolff St. Charles, MO Matthew S. Platter St. Louis, MO Jim Saller & Family St. Louis, MO Ozark Fly Fishers May 2009 Page 10 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events May 16 - Kids Fishing Day –Busch Wildlife – All Day May 28 - Monthly Meeting – Queeny Park 7-9 pm May 29 – 31 Womens Outdoor Weekend July 25 - Monthly meeting - casting at Tillis June 11 Warm Water Float - Big Piney July 11- Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) October 10 - Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) Nov 13 – 14 - Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing Officers Directors: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer – Lou Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Sept 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster : Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 April 2009 April Meeting Wow can you believe it is almost April. Our guest presenter for the month of April will be Chris Conant. Many of you know Chris from T. Hargrove Fly Shop. Chris, although still very young has a great deal of knowledge about fly fishing. Chris grew up in St. Louis and was exposed to fly fishing at a very early age by his father and uncle. In 1999 he first fished the South Fork of the Snake and was hooked. In 2006 Chris called one of the fly shops on the South Fork to see if they needed someone to help in the shop. Now Chris guides on his river of choice. Chris will be speaking about the specific details of the fishery and what makes it unique. He will also incorporate the approach to the South Fork from a guide’s perspective. Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education ducation Through Fly Fishing In This Issue April Meeting Presidents Message Education Stream Team Taneycomo Outing Youth Outing Flu of the Month Project Healing Waters Membership FFF Calendar Random Thoughts For Sale Officers 1 2 3 3 5 6 7 8 8 9 10 11 12 12 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 2 President’s Message by Mike Swederska April 16, 2009 Now that it seems winter is finally losing its grip on us we can turn to more fishing? The club is winding down the education classes for the year of 08-09. I want to thank all the members that have been volunteering their time to these classes. Our club would not be the club it is today without all the time given to the club by those volunteering. I would just like to remind everyone that we have the Ozark Fly Fishers-Feather Craft coming up on May 17. As you may already know from previous years, the fly shop gives the club members a very good discount on any item but fly rods. My suggestion is if you are wanting something of decent value you may want to wait and talk with Ted Lammert that day. He seems to always be in a festive mood, which relates to great door and raffle prizes. Did I forget to mention that they also furnish lunch? I think it was our first OFF-FC that I had my 0 wt out for casting. Many members enjoyed casting my little creek rod that day. Today I have progressed to a 000 wt. I plan to have that rod there for anyone to test drive. [BTW don’t tell Vicky. I own two of them and will have both there.] Speaking of little rods for little creeks, Dr. George Bohigian will be our guest speaker in May. His subject will be the history of Mill Creek. If you have a passion for wild little trout in our own state of Missouri, I would not miss this one for anything. In June we will be out on the dam at Tillis Park. Member Jim Wallace (video library chair) and I will be the BBQ guys for the members. In the past the club members have always BBQ up some Brats and dogs along with some sides. I also am hearing rumors our outings chair Mark Thalhammer plans some kind of casting game during this meeting. I wanted to also mention that the Project Healing Waters is starting to take off. OFF committee members are now holding fly tying classes every Monday for a couple of hours with our veterans. It seems that the word is out amongst the vets and each and every Monday night more vets show up for class. Web master Al Bourisaw has posted pictures on our web site of some of those vets tying flies. Knowing what they have given, seeing some of their faces on our web site, I ask you.” How can you not want to help our committee?” Please contact education director Malcolm Royse. He has taken on the responsibility of PHW at the board level. He needs more of us to give back to them who have given for us. Our Vice President, Mike Krueger, has left his position for personal reasons. With the approval of the board of directors, I have appointed Steve Antonic as Vice President to serve out the remaining term. The board and I will work with Steve in fulfilling his newly acquired duties to this club. Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 3 Education by Malcolm Royse Out of Safety Pin Fly’s The Ozark Fly Fishers once again out did themselves. “Wetlands for Kids” was held April 4, 2009, at Busch Wildlife, and we saw over 1000 kids at our table. The fact that you had tied up 700 or more fly’s, made the day fun even for those who came and tied. We had many people who stopped by the table to say that they had not stopped last year because of the long lines. We still had many kids who just stood at watched the magic happen. Thank you for all the help from everyone who came out to tie. Now we have a program at Busch Wildlife May 16, 2009, “Kid’s Fishing Day”. This is an all day program and we will see a lot of kids. The bad is we are out of prettied safety pin flies. Please help with whatever you can do. We will collect them at the meeting April 23 or drop them off at one of the 2 fly shops. We will sure need all your help. This is a year round program, but this is the really busy time of the year for kids programs. “GO FISH” Training April 25, 2009 There will be training for the Go Fish Program at Busch Wildlife, Saturday, April 25, 2009, Noon till 6 p.m. You will go to all 4 sites and get the training necessary to work with kids. This is a program which teaches youth to fish, starting with the worm and going thru fly fishing. You can sign up as a coach or an instructor. I can tell you it’s a blast. So sign up with Denise Otto, at 636-300-1953x243 [email protected]. This is one of those “Pay it forward” things, think about it. STREAM TEAM # 31 By Bob Temper CONGRATULATIONS to Ozark Fly Fishers on 20 years as a Missouri Stream Team. We celebrated the event with a birthday party complete with cupcakes for everyone at our annual planning meeting on Wednesday March 4, 2009. We did a little reminiscing about previous activities but primarily devoted our time to planning for the future. This year we have expanded to three streams with the addition of Mill Creek. Stream Captains for this year are: Scott Darrell for Current River, Al Bourisaw and Glen Bish for Blue Springs Creek and Malcolm Royse for Mill Creek. The dates established for Water Quality Monitoring thus far are: Blue Springs Creek – 4/25/09 at 9:30 a.m. Current River – 4/18/09, at 9:00 a.m. & 7/18/09, at 9:00 a.m. Mill Creek – 4/11/09 at 9:30a.m.; 7/11/09, 10/10/ 09 and 1/16/10 Mill Creek Stream Team - Malcolm Royse We have completed our first full monitoring of Mill Creek. We will be going back for monitoring, July 11, 2009, so if you want to get involved, save the date. There are great things to learn on these streams. I want to thank Dr. Bohigian for a great cup of coffee and showing us the ropes at Mill Creek. Mike, Bill, Mel, Miles, and Dave, Thanks for all your hard work. We are always looking for new blood in the Stream Team Program, and you will have a great time. The need for training is not necessary, just the desire to help. Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 4 Stream Team (c0ntinued) Tree planting at Mill Creek Sunday April 19th please come to help the Riparian Area of Mill Creek on Bohigian CA. Another phase of trout habitat has been installed in Mill Creek and I need your help planting trees and shrubs. We will be planting 6,000 seedlings throughout the Riparian zone where habitat work has been completed. This work is not labor intensive and everyone of all ages are welcome. We will try to start around 10 am rain or shine and end as soon as all of the seedlings are in the ground; or no later than 4 pm. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, lunch, plenty of water and a positive attitude. If you have any question please contact me, Nick Girondo, at 573-368-2225 or [email protected] Current River - Scott Darrough As the new Current River Stream Team captain, I would like to invite all members of the OFF to take part in this program. Anyone can participate regardless if you have had Stream Team training or not. Those unfamiliar with the program will have the opportunity to see if this is something they might like to pursue. This monitoring will also provide excellent experience for those who will have just completed their Introductory Water Quality Monitoring class a couple of weeks prior. Though I have fished most of my life, it was not until Stream Team that I discovered what actually lives beneath the waters we fish. It was and remains an awesome eye-opener. What a program! Stewardship to our streams and a first hand look at what the fish feed on—in living color! (For all of you OFF fly tyers, to quote Mark Van Patten: “you will look differently at how you design and tie your flies”. I know I have.) Once the monitoring is completed, we can fish the rest of the day. Anyone who is interested or for more information, please call me (Scott Darrough) at 314-560-1335. We will learn and have fun in the process. Planned dates: Saturday, April 18, 2009, at 9:00 a.m. and Saturday, July 18, 2009, at 9:00 a.m. Location: Tan Vat and/or Baptist Camp (depending upon number of volunteers) Blue Springs Water Quality Monitoring – Glenn Bish and Al Bourisaw Glenn Bish and I have agreed to co-captain the Water Quality Monitoring efforts on Blue Spring Creek. The next WQM (both micro invertebrate and chemical) of the creek will occur on April 25, 2009. The team will meet at the lower parking area (Just south of Blue Springs Road) on Highway N outside of Bourbon, Missouri at 9:30 AM. We hope to be finished before 1:00 PM. We would like to form three teams of at least three or four people and monitor three sites on Blue Springs Creek. This would leave plenty of time to fish, if you are so inclined. No training is needed to help with the monitoring. All you need are your waders, boots, sun screen, lunch and a sense of curiosity All equipment will be provided. If interested in helping, contact Glenn Bish at 314.645.1089 or [email protected] or Al Bourisaw at 314.487.2120 or [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 5 Taneycomo Outing Following is important information regarding the Taneycomo outing: Date: three nights 9/10, 9/11 and 9/12 Accommodations: Lilleys' Landing 367 River Lane Branson, Missouri, 65616 1-888-Lilleys You can see the various room layouts @ http://lilleyslanding.com Phil Lilley has a great forum full of information about Taney and all of the other fisheries in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas……Forum: http://ozarkanglers.com/forums/ Presently they are holding four cabins for us…. Units # 11, 12, 13, 14 $ 79/night (Total cost per room, $265.44 inc. tax) All are lake front, sleep two-four, covered decks, stove, some w/ ovens, fridge, micros, coffee pot, dishes, utensils etc. and phone, TV, swimming pool, Jon boats, guide service, fly shop. A local guide will give us a talk on Friday night. We will have a BBQ lunch at the pavilion by the damn on Saturday. Saturday night we "could" have a fish fry if some one can bring home the bacon... Let me know ahead of time if you can attend even if you won't be staying @ Lilleys' so that you can be included in the BBQ lunch. We need a one night deposit ASAP as the rooms are in short supply and we can only expand the size of the outing as rooms are reserved. The balance is due by 8/1. Mail checks payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to: 27 Morning Wind Ct. St. Charles, Mo 63304 636-928-6242 Mark or Jo Thalhammer [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 6 AN EVENT YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS… PARENT / CHILD OUTING - SPECIAL YOUTH FISHING PROGRAM Saturday, June 6th, 2009 – ALL DAY Mountain Home, Arkansas at the fabled waters of Dry Run Creek Feather-Craft and Ozark Fly Fishers will be hosting a wonderful day just for the kids. If you are a parent, a grandparent, a great grandparent, an uncle, an aunt, or in any size, shape or form connected to a child under the age of 16, you should seriously consider taking them to this event. It is one of the most amazing places to fish for trout (rainbows, browns, brook, and cutthroats) on planet earth. There are reported to be more than 10,000 trout per mile. The requirements: 1) Flies only 2) Barbless Hooks only 3) Catch and Release only 4) Must be under 16 or handicapped. We will have all of the gear, stream-helpers (guides), lunch provided, and lots of other fun and giveaways for the kids. This is an absolutely amazing experience for the youth and you will have memories for you and them that will last a lifetime. If you would like to sign up, please contact Kevin Miquelon to make a reservation at [email protected] or 314-7533644. If you would like to get involved in getting kids hooked for life, we are looking for helpers also – everyone is welcome to join us! DETAILS: Lodging reservations are made on your own. Children (under 16) must be accompanied by an adult. Suggest arriving on Friday, June 5th – both camping and hotel options (see below). You can fish on Friday on your own and you will want o fish on Sunday if you have time. We will have the program all day on Saturday, June 6th, including lunch (provided). CAMPING: There is a campground (The Dam – Quarry Campground) just below the dam that is right next to Dry Run Creek and the Hatchery – this is your best option to be close. It accommodates tents, pop-ups and RV’s and has some services including showers. To reserve a campsite: http://www.recreation.gov Search” Camping / Arkansas / Dam – Quarry (AR), Norfork Lake, AR *Our team will be on campsites 15 through 20 and any sites in the park would work. HOTELS: If you wish to stay in a hotel room there are a number of options in Mountain Home, Arkansas (ZIP CODE if using Hotwire or Priceline is 72653) including: Holiday Inn Express, Ramada Inn, Hampton Inn, Days Inn, and many more… OTHER: Upon reserving your spot (by contacting Kevin Miquelon) you will receive directions and other instructions for the trip. Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 7 Fly of the Month - THE SUNKEN STONE Origin: The Sunken Stone is used on western streams during the salmon fly (Pteronarcys Californica) hatch in June and early July. The adult is approximately three inches long and the hatch can be an amazing sight Yellow dubbing is used for the Golden stone hatches in these western streams. The black poly yarn tail imitates the egg sac of the female stonefly. Trout feed on these eggs when the females deposit them in the water. Fly tied by: Bill Todd March 26, 2009. Materials: Hook: TMC 5263 Size 4,6 & 8 Thread:Orange 3/0 Tail: (Egg Sack):Black Poly Yarn Wing::Deer Hair Body:Bright Orange Dubbing - rabbit, scintilla, etc. Fishing Techniques: This fly is designed to float in the film just below the surface of the water. The deer hair wing keeps the heavy hook suspended there. Basically, it is a series of elk hair caddis flies tied on the same hook shank. Gus Krause will be missed. Gustav C. “Gus” Krause, age 84, of Fairview Heights, IL, died on Monday, April 6, 2009 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville, IL. Gus was a long time member of Ozark Fly Fishers. He will be long remembered for his big smile and warm welcoming handshake. Gus retired as an Electrical Engineer from General Steel Industries in Granite City after 35 years. In addition to Ozark Fly Fishers, he was a member of Small Mouth Bass Alliance, the O’Fallon Sportsman’s Club, and Collinsville Camera Club. Gus served in the United States Navy during WWII. Gus is survived by his wife, Josephine E. “Jo”, nee Zankl, Krause; 3 children Patricia (Daniel) Curry of Springfield, IL, Pamela (Ted) Mauck of Trenton, IL and JoAnn (Thomas) Thee of St. Louis, MO; 4 grandchildren Brian and John Curry and Andy and Joe Thee; his step-grandson, Todd Mauck; sister-in-law, Colleen Krause of Belleville, IL; and his brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorials may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, Belleville, IL; Holy Trinity Catholic Church or to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Funeral services were held on Friday, April 10, 2009, followed by interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO. Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 8 Project Healing Waters by Clint Carpenter We are currently in our third month teaching the DAV'S at Jefferson Barracks Hospital. Much of the red tape associated with working in and around government facilities has been worked out and we are on the move. While I say we are on the move as the Vets in the hospital hears about us they are wanting to join the program. At this time we can on only teach the evening program. They would like for us to start an afternoon class. Our problem is instructors. We desperately need help from the club members.Many of you will hear from us asking for you to give your time for this program. One hour a week or a month is a lot to ask for. I will have paper work at the April 23rd meeting for those of you willing to help to sign, Something about fly tying if to think you have to be an expert tier not to worry. We are only doing basic tying. Most all members can do basic tying. PLEASE HELP. Membership Report by Dave Haas Last reported membership on 3-26-2009 New memberships since 3-26-2009 Former members rejoining since 3-26-2009 Total memberships as of 4-11-2009 298 1 1 300 A year ago (March 31, 2008) Annual gain or (loss) 293 7 Welcome New Members Welcome to our newest members Jim & Deb Matush of St. Louis, MO 2.4% Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Visit the following link to join or renew your membership. https://www.fedflyfishers.org/Default.aspx?tabid=4499 Page 9 Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 10 Ozark Fly Fishers Calendar of Events April 6, 13, 20 and 27 - Introduction to Fly Fishing - Queeny Park, 7:30 (See Education Menu - St. Louis County) April 11 - Warm Water Outing at Busch Wildlife - Lake 33 Busch Wildlife area off Highway D April 11 - Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) April 14 - Membership Class, Tying with Foam - Powder Valley, 7:00 PM (See Education Menu - Membership Classes) April 18 - WQM on the Current River - Tan Vat 9:00 AM (Contact Scott Darrough) April 19 - Mill Creek Tree Planting - Plant tree along Mill Creek 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM April 19 - Fly Fishing for Beginners - Shaw Nature Preserve (Call Malcolm Royse for info) April 23 - Fly Fishing at WindRush - WindRush Farms (See Education Menu - St. Louis County) April 23 - Monthly Meeting – Queeny Park 7-9 pm April 25th - Water Quality Monitoring on Blue Springs Creek - Blue Springs Creek 9:30 Am - 1:00 PM (Contact Al Bourisaw or Glenn Bish) May 4th, 11th, 18th - Intermediate Casting - Tilles Park (See Education Menu - St. Louis County May 12 – Members Only Class – Powder Valley 7-9 pm May 16 - Kids Fishing Day –Busch Wildlife – All Day May 28 - Monthly Meeting – Queeny Park 7-9 pm May 29 – 31 Womens Outdoor Weekend June 11 Warm Water Float - Big Piney July 11- Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) July 25 - Monthly meeting - casting at Tillis Sept 10 – 12 Taneycomo Outing October 10 - Mill Creek Water Quality Monitoring - Mill Creek (Contact Malcolm Royse) Nov 13 – 14 - Bennett Springs - Catch and Release Outing Ozark Fly Fishers April 2009 Page 11 Random Thoughts by Ty Livingstone April 2009 A BEAUTIFUL WINTER BASS On Saturday, March 21st, 2009 I packed up some of my favorite microbrew beer (I happen to like Cutthroat Ale), a journeyman’s lunch, a few cigars, the obligatory single malt scotch in my flask, and my favorite bass fly box. I loaded the car with my gear and snuck off to my favorite super secret bass pond (might be a lake, might be a pond…not sure which, but I do know I had it all to myself). The significance of this day was the last day of winter. Sunday would officially ring in spring (which I was desperately longing for) and I was fishing on the final day of this winter season…and for largemouth bass no less. I was reaching the outer edge of my winter blahs and felt like if I didn’t get out, my chest might explode (or implode…not sure which). If one of those two things did not occur, I was fairly certain that my better half might find a way to dispose of me. The last thing I heard before the door hit me on the bumper was “out you go, old codger!” Let’s just say I wasn’t experiencing a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. The weather was crisp and cool and the morning brought a cloudy sky. On the way to the water, I saw lots of worm and bait fisherman out (getting their bass the easy way…I was going to earn mine!). As the day went on, cloudy gave way to a high and bright blue sky with a beautiful color that seemed to have no end. It was exactly what the doctor (and the Mrs.) ordered to bust up those “waiting for spring” blues. It was the fix I needed. I was bound and determined to catch something this day on a fly rod. I am sure the worms were drawing the demons up from the dark, but I was going to get mine the hard way…my favorite way…on the fly. I worked my butt off and had a number of different flies on but when it came to “nut cutting” time, it was my trusty ole Clouser Minnow that snookered the big mouth. I had the get the fly deep and “tease” the fish. They were a little lethargic, but I got some interest and capitalized on a weak moment. The water was crystal clear and as I was fighting the fish, an even larger fish was chasing it…almost had a twofer, but no such luck. When I finally had the fish in hand, I felt like a kid again. I suppose it was the time of year combined with my temperament, but at that moment it was the most beautiful fish in the world to me. Everything slowed down, I cracked a smile, and I am pretty darn sure that I was giggling. It was just what I needed. Everything came back into perspective…all was suddenly right in the world. I could return home to the wife unit, my soul replenished, content and ready to join civilization. Now, time to change gears on you. Enough of that sappy crap…time to climb up on my soapbox and do a little ranting. My last few trips to the water have spotlighted how much trash there is lying around. I guess in the winter, you see more and it stands out like a sore thumb. Nonetheless, it is UGLY! Litter has always bugged me to the point of near insanity (some of my acquaintances would suggest that I am already there) and I recognize that some of it is accidental. However, much of it is created but ignorant, stupid, lazy, sub-human, moronic miscreants. If you want to know how I really feel about, I would be happy to share more with you. Anyway, I have two take homes for you – if you are one of those folks that litter, please stop. If I catch you doing it, out comes my can of Whoop Ass, and it will be game over. So…STOP littering…immediately! Secondly, if you are out in the woods, pick up all the litter you see and bring it out. Maybe even bring a small trash bag in your vest (or pocket) and make it a habit to pick up all you can carry on the way out. Leave it better than you found it. The Native Americans did…we should follow in their footsteps. It really is a small and random act of kindness that goes a long way. Not to mention, if you get rid of the litter, you won’t have to listen to me complain. There is even the possibility that I get to return to my “happy place”. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Ozark Fly Fishers For Sale St. Croix Ultra Legend 9 ft, 2 pc, 3 wt (like new) - $175 Scott 8 ½ ft, 2 pc, 4 wt. - $100 White River 8 ½ ft, 3 pc, 5 wt - $100 St. Croix 9 ft, 4 pc, 5 wt - $75 Sage 9 ft, 3 pc, 8 wt - $175 Sage 8 1/2 ft, 2 pc, 6 wt - $125 Reddington 10 ft, 4 pc 6 wt - $100 Wax Wear Wading Jacket – large - $50 Assorted fishing books and early fly fishing magazines. April 2009 Page 12 If space and time permits, we will include For Sale items for members. For more information on how to submit your items, email the editor at [email protected] Contact Dick Ryan 314 -479 - 1424 Officers Directors: President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Steve Antonic Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer – Lou Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster : Al Bourisaw Casting – Brian Ellis P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 March 2009 Kevin Morlock – Indigo Guide Service Kevin is the absolute professional; you can always count on him to provide excellent service to his customers. He has been a full time guide in West Michigan for almost 10 years. Kevin is a skilled and knowledgeable angler who enjoys sharing the art of fishing with all his clients. He loves guiding, often saying “what other job could I spend the day on a beautiful river, sharing my passion for fishing with great people”. Of interest, Kevin finished the Iditarod in 2007, an 1,100 mile long dog sled race across Alaska; he is 1 of less than 650 people that have finished the race in 35 years. “Welcome to Indigo Guide Service located in beautiful West Michigan, near Ludington; a wonderful place to visit even if we didn’t have great fishing. We are so lucky to be located in a resort area with so much to offer, plus top-notch fishing. We are open all year offering full-service guided fishing trips on some of West Michigan’s finest trout, steelhead and salmon rivers, like the Pere Marquette, Muskegon, Big Manistee, Little Manistee and White. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned fisherman, our fulltime, insured guides will help you have the best experience possible. Our guides are experienced in flyfishing, casting or instructional float trips. Depending upon the season and your interest, choose a half- or full-day drift boat trip for trout, salmon or steelhead. We can customize a trip for families, business outings, and multiple-boat parties. We offer full-service guided fishing trips on West Michigan's finest rivers: Pere Marquette, Manistee, Muskegon, and White. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned fisherman, our full-time, insured guides will help you have the best fly-fishing experience possible. You can meet the guides farther down this page. Depending upon the season and your interest, choose a half- or full-day drift boat trip for trout, salmon or steelhead. We can customize a trip for families, business outings, and multiple-boat parties. Fly fishing instructional float trips are also available for all skill levels. Prime dates fill fast; call for availability. “ Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education Through Fly Fishing In This Issue March Meeting Presidents Message April Meeting All day Meeting Outings Fly of the Month Project Healing Waters Education Invaders Youth Outing New Members Random Thoughts Membership Report 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 6 7 8 8 9 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the th 11 day of each month. Articles for the November December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted by sending to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 2 President’s Message by Mike Swederska Going into March we need to purchase our fishing license for the upcoming year’s fishing. I don’t know about everyone else but I have been buying the trout stamp for years. In years past you only needed the trout stamp to keep fish from outside any trout park. As all C&R fly-fisherman I would purchase a trout stamp just to financially support the trout in our state. Back then during the winter C&R season, you would get a trout tag in the park similar to the one you would get during the summer season. Today you need your trout stamp to fish winter C&R. I would really like to see the state bring back the actual trout stamp. As a collector, the Missouri trout stamp was cool to hang on to. As a side note, I have been collecting fishing licenses from all the different states that I have fished over my lifetime and trout stamps if available. The club has a lot of activities that are offered to the members that will get started real soon. A lot of them are designed to create friendship amongst the members. There is one thing that I want to stress and that is fishing by yourself. I have found that when I fish with others I don’t really get into the frame of mind that I most enjoy. I fish with friends because I enjoy their company. Fishing becomes something we just happen to be doing to gather at that time. Kind of like playing cards, you’re playing but you’re not out to clean out your buddies’ wallet. This year I suggest you take at least one trip by yourself. Make it a one-day trip and plan it out ahead of time letting loved ones know your agenda. Start by packing your gear just for that day. Don’t over pack anything, including your fly rods. Take just that special rod and reel leaving everything else at home. The idea is to go as light as possible with the least amount of hassle. Tie up some of your favorite flies and start a fresh fly box. The way I have always felt was a great trip starts at the tying vice. Get up that morning and pack your own lunch don’t have your wife do it or stop at a convenience store. Do it your self. This will help you to start getting into the zone. Know where you’re going, point your car, put in your favorite music that makes your mind wonder. I start drifting into the zone as soon as my car hits the highway. Forget all about the economy, work problem or even girl friend problems. Make this trip about you and the fish. Leave the family at home; turn your cell phone off. If you only feel comfortable fishing in a trout park that is wonderful. There is no rule that you have to fish someplace exotic to get the “I am the only human on the planet feeling”. Just get into the zone in your head. You know what I mean. Some people call it deep thought. Become one with your fly. You will not notice anybody around you as long as they are not talking to you. Be sure and take your logbook and camera with you this way you can sit in your office and remember the trip on your computer the rest of the year. Oh yea, if you do a trip like this, you will find out it is not about how many or how big the fish. April Meeting Wow can you believe it is almost April. Our guest presenter for the of April will be Chris Conant. Many of you know Chris from T. Hargrove Shop. Chris, although still very young has a great deal of knowledge fly fishing. Chris grew up in St. Louis and was exposed to fly fishing at a early age by his father and uncle. In 1999 he first fished the South Fork Snake and was hooked. In 2006 Chris called one of the fly shops on the Fork to see if they needed someone to help in the shop. Now Chris on his river of choice. Chris will be speaking about the specific details of fishery and what makes it unique. He will also incorporate the approach South Fork from a guide’s perspective. month Fly about very of the South guides the to the Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 3 Report on the all day meeting by Mike Krueger I want to thank all of you who braved the cold, windy and snowy day to come out for the all day meeting. The clinic that Ed out on was incredible. SLACK IS YOUR ENEMY. That should be one of the main things everyone came away with. Ed was insistent that we go outside, and yes I know it was cold, can that guy cast or what. It seems that all we have been traditionally taught can be integrated with Ed’s techniques to make casting easier and more fulfilling. I want to also thank Ed for coming on such short notice. The man is a font of knowledge. One of his main messages was for each person to find the rod, reel and line that suits them. Try the rod, try the reel, try the line. Find what works for you. Outings Update By Ted Calcaterra [email protected] On Saturday April 11th, we will have a warm water outing at August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area located at 2360 Highway D in St. Charles Missouri. You can reach August A. Busch by traveling south on Highway 94 from Highway 40/61, then 1.5 miles on Route D. We will meet at 8am at Lake 33 and will have water and light snacks available. April is a great time of year to pursue warm water species such as bass, crappie, and bluegill on a fly. Lake 33 was identified as the best bet to catch numerous crappie and big bass exceeding 15 inches. Many of these species can be found in shallow water within easy reach of one’s fly. Many good flies to try include Clouser minnows, woolly buggers, and small top water popping bugs. Boats and electric trolling motors are available to rent and give the angler an extra advantage in casting to those hard to reach places. I hope to see you on the water! Photo by "Ioensis" on Flickr.com. Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Fly of the Month -Eagan’s Frenchie Page 4 Developed by Lance Eagan Materials Hook: TMC 3761 Sizes 12,14,16,18 Body: Peacock Hurl. Rib: Small copper wire Collar: Cream or tan sparkle dubbing (Wapsi Life cycle) Tunsten Bead sized to hook How fished This fly can be fished as a dropper under another weighted fly such as a glow ball or dry fly. Some fish it as a single fly. All methods are very effective. Good Luck. Earl S. under a History Lance Eagan was part of the Fly Fishing World Championships. Lance Egan, a Lehi, Utah, resident who works for Cabelas, was one of the seven Americans on the U.S. squad. He finished second among the individual American anglers. The 2008 team for the U.S. is made up of Anthony Naranja, Brett Bishop, George Daniel, Josh Stephens, Lance Egan, Mike Sexton and Scott Robertson. Project Healing Waters by Clint Carpenter We held our first tying class at Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital on Feb 27th . It was a big hit with the VA personnel and the two Vets that were in the class. On March 2nd the second class was held and three Vets were there. On March 9th the third class was held and four Vets were there. My hands were full with four. Two of the new Vets tied woolly buggers and the two from the first session tied bass poppers. All went well in all the classes and they are looking forward to next week. The word is getting around the hospital about the classes and more Vets would like to join in. I have told the VA staff until I get more help from the club I can only do four at a class. I would like for those of you that said you would volunteer to help would let me know if you are still interested. At this time I am only doing one class on Monday evenings starting at six o'clock and running until seven thirty. The staff would like to start an afternoon class with a different group. Those of you that would like to help I will accept it. If you can't find the time to go through all the Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 5 paper work involved that's ok. I can still use your help and the VA staff says that's ok. I would like to have at least two more people that will fill out the paper work so if I can't be there one on you can. Any club member that wants to help please let me know. Education by Malcolm Royse GO FISH The “Go Fish” Program is youth fishing program developed by the Missouri Department of Conservation to teach all aspects of fishing. The program is set up to allow people who love to fish to “pay it forward”. The time given to the program is up to each person, although they do request each instructor to teach 4 or 5 programs a year. There are 4 sites in St. Louis, which should make getting to one of the sites work for everyone. For everyone interested in being an instructor or coach, are expected to attend training on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. at August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area [2360 Highway D, St Charles, Mo.] in classroom A and B. Topics to be discussed include; program structure and function, program and volunteer scheduling, volunteer roles and responsibilities, curriculum and evaluation processes, and much more. Volunteers will board a bus that will visit each Go Fish site. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Denise Otto at [email protected] or call 636-300-1953 x243. If you have any question about the program, please fill free to call Malcolm Royse, 636-329-1504, and I will try to answer any questions Safety Pin Flies We used the first of our safety Pin Flies at Bass Pro as we were asked to tie this month. We are quickly getting into our spring youth programs, where we give out a lot of these safety pin flies. I will collect any pins you have tied at our monthly meetings. Thank you for all the great work that has already been done. Right around the corner is the Wetland for Kids in April and Kids fishing Days in May, and we will see 1000’s of kids. There are a lot of happy smiling kids when they get one of these creations. Keep on tying. April Members Only Class Our April 14, 2009 Members Only Class will be at Powder Valley Conservation Area, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. This class will be taught by Chris Conant. He will be working with foam, tying a simple foam beetle, a single foam Chernobyl and the Trixie. This should give each tier a good perspective of tying with foam. This will be the last member’s class of the spring. We will be starting up the member classes in October. If you want something in the members classes, let me know and we will see what come of your ideas. Call Malcolm Royse, 636-329-1504, or Earl Schenberg, 314-434-7622. Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 6 Invaders In Our Waters By Bob Temper All of the waters that we depend on to support our fishing and boating are being threatened by invasive species that have the potential to devastate the natural habitats. These invaders are often inadvertently spread by anglers and boaters who are carrying unwanted hitchhikers to their favorite waters. The Federation of Fly Fishers is working on an education program to help control the problem. They have a logo with a simple message: inspect, clean, and dry. We must all take these simple actions to stop the spread of destructive invasive species: INSPECT - carefully examine all of your equipment at the end of your trip to see if there are any visible signs of unwanted material attached. This includes any types of plants or mud. If you see any sign of a problem, clean you gear. CLEAN - first remove any visible material by hand then use water to wash your equipment clean. It's ok to clean with water from where you are leaving because you will be leaving behind any problem that you may have picked up. However, never clean your equipment at your put in spot since you can easily be cleaning off hitchhikers that have been with you since your last trip. If you cannot clean before you leave a site make sure to clean at home where there is no chance that an invader can reach the water. DRY - a thorough drying of your equipment will kill any live invaders you may have picked up. If you are counting on drying to eliminate any hitchhikers you must make sure that every bit of hidden moisture is gone before you can feel that you are safe. Take the Pledge Go to: http://www.cleanangling.org Fill out the form and pledge to inspect, clean, and dry your gear after each use. By taking the pledge, you are joining a group of dedicated anglers working to keep our waters safe! Plus, you will automatically be eligible for a free subscription to the Clean Angling News, a monthly electronic newsletter that keeps you up to date on invasive species news of interest to anglers. To receive your subscription, you must reply to the email that will be sent to you automatically after pledging. Help keep Cleanangling.org on the job This summer whether you are taking that trip of a life time fishing several far away streams or just fishing your home waters, remember to inspect, clean and dry. Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 7 Youth Outing by Kevin Miquelon “YOUTH OUTING – Dry Run Creek in Arkansas – June 6th, 2009. Join us for a special event hosted by Ozark Fly Fishers and Feather-Craft – this is something you won’t want to miss if you have a child, grandchild, niece, nephew, or special friend under 16 years of age. This one mile of stream is right next to the National Hatchery and the Norfork Lake damn and is limited to barbless flies only and catch and release. The trout are big and bad and love to be caught (and then let go to be caught another day, of course). The fishing is epic – 10,000 trout per mile – and we will have food, fun, and frolics, and giveaways for the kids all day on Saturday. Just outside of Mountain Home , Arkansas with camping available (great campsite just below the damn and across from the stream) and plenty of hotel rooms in town, it will be a weekend to remember. Arrive early and fish on Friday and stay late and fish on Sunday. We are looking for volunteers and sign-up information will be available at Feather-Craft and from Kevin Miquelon – [email protected] or 314-753-3644. Children must be accompanied by an adult.” Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 8 Welcome New Members Alan W. Blair, Jr. Wildwood, MO Bob Buchanan St. Louis, MO James "Jim" DeMerit Fenton, MO Jeff & Kelly Hall Sunset Hills, MO Jeff Schikore & Family Wright City, MO Jim Hubb St. Louis, MO Wilson C. Hubbard Caruthersville, MO Brad Kohlbrecher St. Charles, MO Matt Leigh Sunset Hills, MO Jim Stevens St. Louis, MO James Washabaugh Jefferson City, MO James Williams Cedar Hill, MO David Zimmerman Wildwood, MO Random Thoughts by Ty Livingstone March 2009 LEANING TO THE LEFTY (KREH, THAT IS…) “Knowledge is to be shared, not displayed.” – Lefty Kreh Over the years, I have had the opportunity to meet the Legend several times, but never the chance to hear him speak all day. I was anxiously awaiting his trip to the Ozark Fly Fishers all day meeting in February and when I heard that he could not make it, I was very disappointed (Ed Jaworowski came in his stead and he did a pretty fine job). I am not sure why Lefty could not make it, but I do think that anybody who has more than four score under their belt can do just about any dang thing they want. Maybe Lefty can make it next year. I certainly hope so. Lefty is the big jewel in the crown of fly fishing and there is only one of him. An Australian magazine referred to Lefty as "one of America's national treasures." He has been honored around the world and sought after for speaking engagements from the Far East to New York City. He is characterized by his unique fishing hat with ear flaps…I bought one like it and look like a fool when I wear it…Lefty slaps it on and he just looks cool in it. You most likely know quite a bit about Lefty Kreh. He has been involved in much they innovation and evolution of fishing with the long rod. He has been an ambassador for fly fishing internationally and, at the end of the day; he is one of, if not THE, most entertaining characters among us. He is a special gift that we have enjoyed for decades. His spirit, his attitude, his ingenuity, and his “life well lived” is an inspiration to us all. Having said that, what I am about to share with you is some things you may not know about Lefty. There aren’t many folks who get their own postage stamp…but then, there aren’t many Lefty Kreh’s. His Lefty's Deceiver fly was reproduced and named on a United States postage stamp. If that weren’t enough, Lefty has an anthrax strain named after him – BVK1 (as in Bernard Victor Kreh – known to us as “Lefty”) – that he contracted at Fort Detrick. His two co-workers did not survive the incident. An accomplished outdoorsman and naturalist, while he was in his army training, he identified and spotted some Ivory Bill Woodpeckers near Camp Shelby. At the time, no-one believed him, but recent sightings have proved he was most likely right. He served in World War 2 during the height and heat of battle and escaped death many a time. The horrors he witnessed during the war and his battlefield bravery shaped much of his character. Lefty’s upbringing – the oldest of four children that lost their father to an accident during the height of the Depression – was the foundation of a gritty and determined soul. In essence, Lefty has been forged in the fire and is the poster boy for “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.” I don’t know about you, but this guy is one of my heroes and I truly look up to him. On the lighter side, he got his nickname by pitching, hitting, and shooting with his left hand, but he dribbles, passes, and plays billiards right handed. He can cast a fly rod with either hand, and do it damn well, thank you very much. And, if that weren’t enough, Lefty can toss a metal washer up in the air and shoot a bullet through the hole. Really. No, really! Ozark Fly Fishers March 2009 Page 9 A Lefty Kreh along comes along once every so often. It is a monumental and time changing event. Enjoy it while you can. And if you run into Lefty, tell him you love him. Thanks for everything, Lefty. We appreciate it. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Membership Report by Dave Haas Last reported membership on 2-11-2009 New memberships since 2-11-2009 Former members rejoining since 2-11-2009 Total memberships as of 3-11-2009 A year ago (March 5, 2008) Annual gain or (loss) Officers President – Mike Swederska Vice President – Mike Krueger Secretary – Patti Hummert Treasurer – Lou Bob Zagar Past President – Bob Temper Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren Education – Malcolm Royce Membership – Kevin Miquelon Ways and Means – Pat Hummert Communications – Bill Leslie Outings – Ted Calcaterra Chairs: Fly Tying – Earl Schenberg Webmaster : Al Bourisaw 273 13 12 298 10 288 3.5% Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 March 2009 Page 10 February 2009 2009 ALL DAY MEETING with Ed Jaworowski It is with great regret that I must announce that Lefty will not be able to join us at our all day meeting on February 21, 2009. Lefty called me late Monday night and said he had a sudden family emergency. He did express great regret that he would not be here. The opening was left for him to come later in the year after dealing with his situation. Lefty did however recommend, a speaker who visited the club about 5 years ago, Ed Jaworowski. Ed has extensive experience (50+ years) with all types of tackle, ultra-light, surf and much more, specializing in fly fishing, fresh and salt water. Ed has traveled the world in search of the perfect cast and catch. Ed has been a fly casting instructor for more than 30 years, he has done hundreds of demonstrations, seminars, and slide shows on all facets of fly fishing. He has done shows in the United States, Canada, Central America, England, and many more countries. He has been on THE TODAY SHOW and was interviewed by Bryant Gumbel. He is indeed an international fly fishing authority. Ed has authored four books and served as an editorial consultant for a fifth. Lefty Kreh has called Ed “the best teacher of fly casting I have ever known”. Coming from Lefty that would the greatest compliment. He is a consultant to Temple Fork Outfitters in testing and designing of rods. He recently retired from Villanova University where as a Classical Studies professor taught Latin literature and ancient Roman history for more than 40 years. Ed will present 2 programs on Saturday, February 21, 2009. The first will be THE EDUCATION OF A FLY FISHER, The second will be A WORLD OF TROUT FISHING. If the weather cooperates we will go outside and see this truly amazing master at work. If the weather does not cooperate we will have a full demonstration inside where it is truly difficult to do it right. We want to fill this facility and show Ed what a great club we have. Do not miss this opportunity to see and hear another incredible caster and teacher. Everyone will learn something. If you need more information please feel free to contact me at 314-974-2046. THE GOVERNMENT CENTER IS LOCATED ON NEW BALLIS RD BETWEEN OLIVE AND HWY40. WE WILL START AT 830AM AND GO TIL WE CANT GO ANYMORE . 830 Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education through Fly Fishing In this Issue ALL DAY MEETING with Ed Jaworowski 1 Presidents Message 2 BANQUET 3 Chili Pot Luck & Tie – In 3 Wormin 5 Membership Renewal 5 Membership Data Base Report & New Members 6 Stream Team # 31 6 Education 7 Members Only Classes for 2009 8 Conservation 9 Random Thoughts 10 Brown Trout &the Drainage Ditch 10 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the 11th day of each month. Articles for the November /December newsletter must th be submitted by November 11 . Newsletter articles can be submitted to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 2 Presidents Message Mike Swederska As we enter into a new year I start a new two-year term as your president. I feel very honored and proud that you as members of the greatest fly fishing club in the world would have me as your president for a second term. I will serve you to the best of my ability as your president and fellow fly fisherman. As a self-employed person of the work force in our great country, this affords me to be available to the members of this club almost 24-7. My door or phone is always open to any member that would like to have a word with me about club business or fly-fishing. My goal is to continue with what I started, making this club more fun and educational to all its members. We have done this with the new programs for our members at Powder Valley and with more outings for beginners and advanced fly fisherman. By reactivating our Stream Team program we have involved new members to the club along with older members by doing these projects. Our members now have programs inside our club that will make them proud to be a part of the Ozark Fly Fishers. Our club is the benchmark in fly fishing clubs. This is impart by all the wonderful members that make up our club. I just got back from a very successful club outing, the FYAO. We had the most wonderful weather for a winter outing we could have ever asked for. I believe we had around 30 members on this outing making this outing grow leaps and bound. We fished, we ate, we tied flies and we drank. I think some of us did a little of the last more than we did the first. I now have a new term to describe some flies that I tied drunken flies. These are the flies that look like a master fly tier tied them while they are still in the vice, the next morning when you go to the pile of flies at the base of the vice. You discover that those perfect flies look like something my cat threw up, hence the term drunk flies. I want to mention a member who went above and beyond on this outing, Jim Wallace. You should know him as the members operating the video library. He pre-arranged Saturday night’s dinner with the members that went on the outing. This is the menu that he posted on the yahoo group prior to the outing: Caesar Salad, Strip steak with sautéed mushrooms and Maitre D' butter, Baked potato with the trimmings. Larry has promised us a special treat for dessert While we ate hors d’oeuvres (brought by Steve Antonic the newest t recipient of the Marty King award) and drank, Jim cooked. There were so many of us we had to eat in shifts. Larry Carli produced a desert to kill for and that would lead me into a story for another time. Ask me at the next meeting to give you the story. Thanks Jim, Larry and Steve you are all assets to the club. As I promised at the banquet I have included the unedited email that Mark Van Patten sent me about Marty King: Mike , Careen (ed note. Careen Struemph, Fisheries Office Manager, MDC) forwarded your question to me. I think it is great that you are wanting to honor Marty. His passion for fly fishing and his love of Missouri's waters compelled him to lead the charge to help establish the Missouri Stream Team program exactly twenty years ago this year. I can still remember the day Marty came to my house with a photo copy of a prototype application brochure for the Stream Team program. Marty knew me through the sport of fly fishing and knew that I had been organizing some stream clean-ups on the Roubidoux Creek in Waynesville. (I lived there then). Marty was a member of the small fly fishing club I had founded, the Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association. In addition to belonging to Ozark Fly Fishers, Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association, and just about every FFF affiliated Fly Fishing club in the State, Marty was also the Chairman of the Rivers and Streams Committee of the Conservation Federation. At the time he had been involved in numerous discussions with his committee and representatives with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Fisheries Division about an idea to build a stronger constituency for Missouri rivers and streams. At first it was just an idea then it started to grow into a concept. Someone (I think it was Joe Bachant with MDC) made a mock up of an application brochure and handed it out at one of their many meetings. I think Marty was anxious to get something actually off the ground when he approached me with the application. We discussed it and after Marty left I read the brochure from cover to cover and decided I loved the idea too. I was not an employee of the MDC then. I was a car salesman. No jokes please : ) Anyway, I filled it out and mailed it to the address on the back cover. That was in February 1989. The Roubidoux Fly Fishers became Stream Team Number 1. Marty planted the seed and 20 years later, nearly 4,000 Teams and 78,000 Missourians have followed the trail that he helped to blaze. Marty is my friend and mentor. My career path has changed because of him and for the past 17 years I have enjoyed the greatest job in the world. If there is any way I can help honor him I am at your service. Mark Mark Van Patten Streams Coordination Biologist Missouri Department of Conservation Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 3 BANQUET Mike Krueger Ozark Fly Fishers had their annual banquet on January 24, 2009. I want to thank everyone who attended this year for their effort in making this a great success. We had a great turn out, not a great as I had hoped, but from the responses I have had everyone enjoyed the evening. We were able to auction almost every item. We had a full assortment from Anheusher Busch, thanks Pat, along with all the items which were donated by club member and corporate sponsors we had over 175 items for auction. I still do not know what Patty Hummert will do with that covered wagon, Johnny did have a few suggestions. You the club members make this event the success that it has come to be. Louise and I want to thank everyone who helped with the set up and those who helped throughout the evening. We also want to thank Johnny for coming to St. Louis and giving the banquet his personal touch. Thank you notes will be going out to all those who contributed items for the auction. Personally, I believe I got the prize of the evening with the rod Steve Antonic built. 171 pieces in the cork, he lost his mind. Steve Antonic was recognized by me for the great advice he has given me during the past 2 years, he received a fishing shirt with his favorite slogan on the back, “We’re just a fishing club”. He was truly surprised. Mike Swederksa also surprised Steve with the MARTY KING AWARD, the last time this award was given was over 15 years ago. It can only be given by the President of the club. Steve hit the trifecta that night as his raffle ticket was the first ticket drawn. He chose a nice box of shark skin line. As for next year we have a new and improved idea for checking out. It should make the process much faster. We would still like to see an increase in those attending the banquet, for only you the club members can make it a success. Again, thanks to all who contributed items, attended, and helped throughout the evening. You are truly appreciated. Chili Pot Luck & Tie – In Bob Zagar When: March 7, 2009 Where: Marlan’s Clubhouse Time: 9:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. It’s that time again for our annual Chili, Pot Luck Tie – In. The Tie – In will be held at Marlan’s subdivision clubhouse (Countrylane Woods II, 851 Country Stone Drive. Manchester, MO. 63021. The date is March 7, 2009. Tying will start at 9:00 A.M. and go thru lunch to 2:00 P.M. Participating members are asked to bring a dish of some sort, preferably your favorite chili, or possibility a desert. The club will provide the plates and eating utensils along with liquid beverages. If you have not attended this event in the past, you must come to witness a dozen or more club tiers tying there favorite fly’s. If you are just starting out and wanting to learn more about the hobby, this is your chance to learn from some of the best. If you are not a tier, come just for the comradeship to say nothing of the stories. There is plenty of room to cast in the yard so if the weather allows we will be also be casting. So bring your tying stuff, and that new fly rod you have wanted to try your favorite chili or desert and join in the fun. If you’re willing to share your chili secrets please bring your recipe. Please contact Bob Zagar (out going fly tying chair), Earl Schenberg (incoming fly tying chair) or Ted Calcaterra – our outings chair. Let us know what you plan to bring or if you have any questions. Bob Zagar: (H) 314 – 849 – 0092 E-mail: [email protected] Ted Calcaterra: (H) 636-305-1085 E-mail: [email protected] Earl Schenberg (H) 314 – 434 – 7622 E-mail: [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 4 Fly of the Month Cream Parachute Origin This fly became noteworthy at the Ozark Fly Fishers Bennett Springs Catch-N-Release outing in 2008. Mike Swederska tied and fished the fly with great success. There was a hatch of a small cream colored mayflies that had fish rising everywhere in the stream especially above the damn. This fly is a must for your fly box, if fishing Bennett Springs Materials Hook: Temico 101 size 22 Thread: 8/0 Cahill Tail: Light Ginger or Cream Hackle Fibers Body: Cahill Thread Hackle: Cream or Light Ginger Post: White Turkey Flat Tying Instructions 1. Mount the hook and attach thread. 2. Mount the post about 1/3 way down the shank. 3. Tie on the hackle fibers for the tail. Use the standard dry fly length for the tail. 4. Build a tapered body to the post. 5. Method 1 - Tie on a light ginger or cream hackle to the shank of the hook. Apply a dab of cream dubbing behind the post and in front of the post. Wrap three or four turns of hackle around the post. Tie off the hackle to the hook shank. Bring the thread behind the eye and form a head. 6. Method 2 (Similar) - Tie on a light ginger or cream hackle to the shank of the hook. Tie the stem of the hackle up the post. Apply a dab of dubbing behind the post and in front of the post. Wrap three or four turns of hackle down the post and tie the hackle off around the post. Bring the thread to a point behind the eye and form a head. 7. Whip finish or half-hitch and apply cement, if needed. Variations This is a typically tied parachute, except for the small size. Various colors can be used to tie the fly. Use a light olive thread and dun hackle to imitate a blue wing olive. Use gray thread with a brown and grizzly hackle to tie an Adams. Other combinations can be used to tie various imitations. Name Tags Don’t forget to wear your OFF Name Badge at every meeting! It is very helpful, with more than three hundred members, for people to give a quick glance at your name badge and see who you are. Lots of effort goes into making the badges and bringing them to the meetings, so please make an effort to wear yours. If you don’t have one (basically, you lost yours), then let us know and we will replace it. Dave Haas has a number of name badges in his possession and would like for everyone to “grab and go” with them. Also, bonus tickets to the raffle are an added incentive if you are wearing your name badge. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 5 Wormin Al Bourisaw One of the several (my wife say’s many) fly fishing organizations and clubs that I belong to is the North Arkansas Fly Fishers out of Mountain Home, Arkansas. This is a great club that sponsors the Sow Bug each year in Mountain Home. The club has many knowledgeable fly fishers that get to practice their art on the White River below Bull Shoals Dam and on the Norfork River below the Norfork Dam. The North Arkansas Fly Fishers publish a monthly newsletter and I often run across an article that is really interesting and can be applied to my fishing. In the December issue of the newsletter – Tail Waters – member Fox Statler, author of Fishin, What They See and an outstanding fisherman, talks about fishing the worm. In particularly, he talks about tying and fishing the San Juan Worm. Although the article is directed at fishing tail waters, I believe the information provided by Fox is applicable to my use of the San Juan Worm on the Ozark streams and trout parks. Let’s look at the Fox method of tying the San Juan Worm. He uses a 3x or 4x straight shank down eye streamer hook. Fox points out that the worm will spin in the current if a curved or scud type hook is used. Using the straight shank hook will allow the worm to wobble in the current, but it will not spin. He also suggests that a light wire hook be used in low water conditions with a heavier hook used in medium to high water conditions. The weight of the hook has to do with how he rigs the worm – more on that later. The thread should match the color of the worm. The body of the worm is Ultra chenille. Micro for low water conditions; medium for high water trout; and large for very high water or for bass. The color of the chenille is where I believe we find Fox’s real knowledge of how fish see colors and draw upon his many years of fishing experience. He fishes many colors, but always with some logic behind the color selected. Over the years, Fox and the guides he has used have developed a system that has proven successful. He always fishes a dropper worm of a different color using a rig we will look at later in this article. In the winter or spring when the water is the highest and during morning hours, a fluorescent red worm is fished with a fluorescent orange dropper. Most of the fish will be taken on the fluorescent orange dropper. As the day proceeds, fish will stop hitting the fluorescent orange dropper and will start taking the fluorescent red worm. The fluorescent orange worm is changed to a fluorescent pink worm on sunny days or a wine colored worm on cloudy days. If the day was partly cloudy, the fluorescent red worm would be replaced so that the rig was now a fluorescent pink worm with a wine dropper. On extremely bright days the rig would consist of a fluorescent pink worm with an earthworm brown worm as a dropper. Around one or two o’clock the entire process would reverse until dark. On some of the coldest cloudy dark days, the rig never gets past the fluorescent red and fluorescent orange dropper. This system was best used in clear or slightly stained water. If the water was stained with a lot of green algae, a fluorescent chartreuse worm would be used instead of the fluorescent red during early morning hours. If the day was partly cloudy, fluorescent yellow and green worms would be used. In the brightest days of summer, Fox often uses a bright lime worm and a bright blue worm dropper. Black worm also work in the summer during most of the day. Fox points out that fishing a fly involves two presentations. Does the fly look natural and does the fly fish like the natural. If the tier accomplishes both of these qualities, then he will be successful. As noted previously, the worm pattern should not be tied on a curve shank hook, but a straight shank. Also, the worm should not be tied with the chenille material sticking out in front of the head. This forms a “V” with the head portion of the chenille folded back along the body. This presentation is not natural and will result in fewer fish taking the worm. The middle of the worm should be tied on at the hook bend and the chenille should not extend beyond the eye of the hook. i.e. If the worm is two inches in length, then the shank of the hook should be one inch in length. Fox’s method of rigging the system is also interesting. He uses at least a ten foot leader with an indicator six inches to a foot below the fly line. At the end of the leader, a fluorescent red worm is tied on with a fluorescent orange worm tied off the bend of the red worm as a two foot dropper. About six inches above the first worm he ties on another dropper tippet and attaches a “BB” size split shot. This provides the weight to get the fly down and provides some protection from snagging the rig. A lighter wire hook will allow the worm to float near the bottom, but not on the bottom. The split shot is pinched onto the tippet dropper, not tied on. If the “BB” snags on the bottom, it will slide along the tippet until it comes off and the rig can be retrieved – pretty nifty. San Juan Worms are usually my go-to-fly when the water is high or really off color. After reading Fox’s article, I am going to stock my fly box with a few more worms of different colors. You can learn more about Fox Statler and his innovation fly tying by going to his web site - http://willowford.net/ Membership Renewal It is not too late for renewals on membership to Ozark Fly Fishers. Remember, membership has its privileges! Please submit your membership dues and take full advantage of all the club has to offer for 2009. Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Membership Data Base Report Page 6 New Members Dave Haas (Membership Committee - Database & Directory) Last reported membership on 1-11-2009 365 New memberships since 1-11-2009 5 Former members rejoining since 1-11-2009 1 Final 2008 memberships as of 1-31-2009 371 A year ago (February 1, 2008) 352 Annual gain or (loss) Renewals for 2009 and total memberships as of 2-11-2009 Renewals a year ago (February 6, 2008) 19 5.4% 273 74% 267 76% Anthony J. Aimonette Barbara Gilcrease Hal Olsen Bob Pence Tim Reich & Tracy Reynold St. Louis, MO St. Louis, MO Ballwin, MO Wentzville, MO Ballwin, MO This represents a new all-time high membership for Ozark Fly Fishers. This is the third year in a row that Ozark has set a new membership record. Ozark Fly Fishers Stream Team # 31 Bob Temper th The OFF Stream Team will meet Wednesday March 4 at Powder Valley Conservation Center to plan this year’s Stream Team Activities. The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m. sharp. Discussions will include setting dates for water quality monitoring on Blue Springs Creek, Current River, and Mill Creek. OFF joined the Adopt an Access program last year for Blue Springs Creek so trash pickup dates need to be set. There will be at least one tree planting activity at Mill Creek and the Department of Natural Resources has published a list of streams in Missouri that are in need of adoption for water quality monitoring. If you have any questions prior to the meeting call Bob Temper @ 314-894-0319. The Stream Team Introductory Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Training will be held at Montauk State Park, Friday afternoon, April 3, and Saturday morning, April 4, 2009. Each half day will include 4 hours of classroom training with an on stream, hands-on training. You will receive all testing equipment at the end of your training. Those attending must attend both days to become a Certified Stream Team Volunteer Water Quality Monitor. Those planning on attending must contact Priscilla Stotts ([email protected]) or call her at 573-526-3406. Several OFF members have already registered for the 28 slots available in this program. There are no costs to you for the program, but all food and lodging are up to you. Lodging reservations at Montauk can be made by calling 573-548-2585. Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 7 Education Malcolm Royse Kids Safety Pin Fly’s Keep up the good work and fun pin flies. This should be something that the kid in you wants, so go for it. Remember you can be serious at work. This project goes on all year long, so anytime a good time to tie some up. “Go Fish” New Volunteer Training The “Go Fish” Program introduces young people, ages 8 to 15, to the joys of fishing, starting from the worm, to the fly, and everything in between. The program will be conducting a training session for new volunteers, Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 1 p.m. till 6 p.m., at August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in Weldon Springs, Missouri. The program will be held in classrooms A and B. The training is required to go over all 7 parts of the program and all the legal information required by law when a person works with young people. If you are planning to attend the training, please contact Denise Otto at 636-300-1953 x 243 or [email protected] to register. If you have any questions about the program, or how rewarding it is, please feel free to talk with Mike Krueger, Bob Temper, or Malcolm Royse. The Program runs at 4 sites, Suson Park, Forest Park, Bellfountain Park, and Busch Wildlife. The kids are great and I personally receive much more then I give. There are no meetings after training, just fishing with kids, and really doing something, not just talking about what needs to be done. “Go Fish” is a Missouri Department of Conservation program. For more information, go to http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/stlouis/ Stream Team 31 Introductory Training The Stream Team Introductory Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Training will be held at Montauk State Park, Friday afternoon, April 3, and Saturday morning, April 4, 2009. Each half day will be 4 hours of classroom training with an on stream, hands-on training. You will receive all testing equipment at the end of your training. Those attending must attend both days to become a Certified Stream Team Volunteer Water Quality Monitor. Those planning on attending must contact Priscilla Stotts ([email protected]) or call her at 573-526-3406. There are only 28 slots in this program and it is first come first served, although we are being given early knowledge so there should be an opening for you. There are no costs to you for the program, but all food and lodging are up to you. Lodging at Montauk can be made by calling 573-548-2585. Last year many of us went down and fished Friday morning till 11:00, went to the program, and fished Saturday afternoon. Most of us stayed over Sunday, fished and headed for the hills, making for a great weekend. The workshop is well worth your time and effort and O.F.F. could sure us some more trained people to help expand our clubs monitoring activities. If you are planning on attending and sign up, would you let Bob Temper know, as he is our Stream Team Coordinator. Bob’s phone number is 314-894-0319. Education continued Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 8 “Go Fish” Trout Days There will be Trout Fishing Days at all 4 “Go Fish” sites, which will be to fly fish. The days of the programs are being at this time and will be posted on Yahoo and our web site. The plan is for Saturdays in March, 2:00 p.m. thru 4:00 p.m. Look for dates and information as it comes in. All sites will be staffed with “Go Fish” staff to do all the set up, but most of these people have no working knowledge of fly fishing. You will need to show up 2 hours early to get to know the water, find the fish and the fly that is working. Please do not fish any hole out, but get a good working knowledge of your lake. Also there are 6 new fly rods at each site that will need to be set up with what will work. This might require that we dig into our fly’s at times, but when a kid catches a fish in a hole we found with one of our fly’s, what can I say, it is magic. There will be spin cast equipment for those kids that want to fish with lures. Kids with a trout tag will be able to harvest a limit. If you can help on any of these days please contact Malcolm Royse at 636-329-1504 or [email protected]. I am hoping to have 5 members at each site, so that there can be some real one-on-one training. Members Only Classes for 2009 All classes are taught on Tuesday starting at 7:00 PM and will end at 9:00 PM. Classes will be offered at Powder Valley Conservation Area in Kirkwood. March 10, 2009 - Tying Mike's Parachute - Rescheduled from January 27 th Mike will tie at least one of his great parachute patterns so it will be a good class. Bring your own tools. All materials will be provided. April 14, May 12 – TBD Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 9 Conservation Wallis W Warren “There’s a river somewhere that flows through the lives of everyone.” — Roberta Flack Sand & Gravel As anticipated, it didn’t take long for the perennial ‘Sand and Gravel’ bill to be introduced this session. Representative Tom Loehner has once again sponsored a bill (HB 246) in the House, with few changes from the previous bills. To date, the bill is not scheduled for a hearing, but has been assigned to the House Conservation Committee, chaired by Rep Don Ruzicka. It is also important to note those co-sponsors of the bill, Deeken, Schad, Jones (117), Schlottach, Wilson (119), Wallace, Nance, Bruns, Munzlinger and Sater. We would appreciate it if any of you in Representative Loehner’s district, or the districts of any co-sponsors would let us know, so if this bill moves forward, we can ask you to contact your representative directly. At this time no bill has been filed in the Senate. A meeting was arranged February 2 in Jefferson City to meet with Representative Loehner ~ Bob Temper made himself available to attend and discuss alternatives to legislation. A positive note that came from the preliminary discussion is that those attending agreed to the need for independent scientific input, perhaps through funding a study. Of course, funding is the challenge and there is no guarantee the bill will not proceed in the meantime. Conservation Lobby Day will be February 17 at the Capitol, so we will have another opportunity to address this and other sensitive issues with the legislators face to face. We hope to have a strong turnout from OFF members. DNR Small Streams Workgroup – Missouri Clean Water Forum According to the EPA, an estimated 1.8 million to 3.5 million people get sick from recreational contact with sewage from sanitary sewage overflows every year. The American Society of Civil Engineers gives water and wastewater systems a D-, the lowest grade of any infrastructure category. In 2006 the EPA found that only 28 percent of the nation’s stream miles were in good condition Missouri has the dubious distinction of being one of four states out of compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act requiring states to have their streams classified. To that end, the DNR has formed a group to help evaluate the need for greater (or some) regulatory processes for protection of wetlands and unclassified waters. On January 15, Bob Temper, Marty King and I attended the first in this series of meetings to help identify the beneficial uses existing in and on these waters and establish criteria for protecting those uses. In this regard, we would like to hear from you about any local stream or body of water in which you fish, swim wade, or have any contact (recreational or otherwise). It is the small bodies of water that we are particularly interested in, and a one time use of these waters can require stricter environmental standards. The challenge is getting data from people about use, since many of these streams are small and inaccessible to the public in general. If you have a special area, whether in your back yard, property or in a favorite weekend spot, please let us know. th The next meeting is scheduled February 19 in Jefferson City. Anyone interested in attending, please let me know. We generally carpool, so we would like to include you in the arrangements, if possible. For additional information about the workgroup, check: p://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/cwforum/adv-uncl-waters-wetlands.htm Minimum Flow – North Fork and White Rivers An important step to seeing the ‘Minimum Flow’ projects become a reality started with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ signing the ‘Record of Decision’. Remaining steps will be the signing of the PPA (Project Participation Agreement) by the Arkansas Game & Fish and those Lakeside Facility owners with impacted facilities; Siphon and bulkheads installed at Norfok Dam; Lake Facilities modified as agreed in the PPA; Congressional funding for an Empire Electric buyout; and storage captured. This is a comprehensive plan, with many positive results. For details and to find out how you can lend your support, go to: http://forward-to-friend.com/forward/show?u=02c951fe83d855306287ffb07&id=0dd34ea7e1 Random Thoughts by Ty Livingstone – February 2009 KEEP YOUR STIMULUS…GIVE ME A STIMULATOR! I have to beg the forgiveness of my readers as I begin my random thinking…I try to keep myself on the topic of the great outdoors, first and foremost fishing, and even more to the point, fly fishing. Every now and again (okay, maybe more often than that), I stray a bit and for that I apologize. So, the geniuses in Washington, D.C. (see my rant on throwing the bums out last fall) have all the answers to our problems…have no fear…the government is here. Drum roll please…gigantic, obese, government bailout (the so called “Stimulus” plan) Now ladies and gentlemen…here is Ty’s plan – I am calling my version of the bailout, the Local Economy Stimulator Plan. Each and every fly fishing person in our community needs to do the following; plan your next trip (and soon!) – even if it is only a day trip…go down to your local fly shop and gear up…purchase plenty of tippet and flies (in particular the Stimulator – I like mine in a sizes 12 and 14 in orange), and go fishing. Enjoy yourself, drink some scotch, smoke a cigar, laugh with a friend, and if you are so inclined, catch and release. Forget about all of this other nonsense for a little while and have some fun. It will still be there when you get back. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Editor’s note: You can see this article in its entirety on Ty’s blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 11 BROWN TROUT AND THE DRAINAGE DITCH Christopher Seep I was fishing a drainage ditch, and I was enjoying it! Well, really an exdrainage ditch. After World War II, portions of the Provo River in Utah were dredged for flood control. After completion of the Jordanelle dam and creation of the Jordanelle reservoir, however, efforts were begun to restore the Provo from the Jordanelle reservoir to the Deer Creek reservoir downstream. In fact, since 1999 over $30 million has been spent in this effort. A more meandering course has been reestablished with the addition of wetlands and side channels. Trees and vegetation have been planted to further this effort. The result is a very natural looking stream. In July I had the opportunity to fish the middle Provo river near Park City, Utah. There’s a lot to like about the middle Provo.It is a tailwater, flowing out of Jordanelle reservoir within a 20 minute drive of the ski/resort town of Park City and about an hour from Salt Lake City. Access is very good with roads paralleling the stream in many places. A very good brown trout fishery, the middle Provo has 3,500 wild brown trout per mile, ,many in the 14-18 inch range. Some rainbows are present also. The section I fished was mostly riffly water with a very strong current. There were some slower stretches in bends and backwaters. I spent a day on the river with Walter, a guide I hired from a Park City fly shop. Because of the river’s strong current, nymph rigs fished on the middle Provo need lots of weight. The current craze on the river is the “bounce rig” using a small balloon inflated to the size of a pingpong ball and attached to the leader using a slip knot. The balloon is placed so that the nymphs (usually two) just bounce along the stream bottom. The balloon, of course, becomes the strike indicator. For the uninitiated (or for old guys like me), this can be very tiring. But in the hands of an angler experienced in this technique, it can be very effective. In the parts of three days I fished the middle Provo, I saw little in the way of dry fly action. Under Walter’s tutelage, I managed to catch some respectable brown trout. One evening I returned to the stream by myself and caught fish using the old tried-and-true double nymph rig with a conventional strike indicator that I commonly fish in Missouri, until the lightning from an approaching storm drove me from the stream. The most amazing moment of my time on the middle Provo was when I stopped fishing for a moment and watched a myriad of nymphs floating by in the river. I was spellbound when, on two occasions, a nymph floated to the surface, split its shuck, and emerged as a perfect pale morning dun. After drying its wings for a few seconds, each fly gently lifted off from the surface of the water. That gave me a new appreciation for our craft of flytying and how well some of our flies mimic the real thing. Certainly, there are many western rivers I would choose to fish before the middle Provo. However, if you find yourself in Salt Lake City or in Park City with a little extra time, making the short drive to the middle Provo is definitely worth it. And it can be fished year-round, allowing for some ski/fish opportunities in winter or golf/fish activities in the warmer months. Ozark Fly Fishers February 2009 Page 12 Mexican Polenta Pie Here's one that my family really likes. Everyone else I give the recipe to also raves about it. It's also kinda healthy. – Larry Carli Officers: President – Mike Swederska – 314.799.1998 Vice President – Mike Krueger – 314.721.3704 Secretary – Jerry Kniepman – 636.240.5096 Treasurer – Lou Juranas – 314.878.7442 Past President – Larry Carli – [email protected] Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren – [email protected] Education – Malcolm Royce – 314.220.6007 Membership – Kevin Miquelon – 636.391.1112 Ways and Means – Bill Hale – 314.351.2214 Communications – Bill Leslie [email protected] Outings – Ted Calcaterra – 636.305.1085 Chairs: Fly Casting – Brian Ellis – 314.822.1819 Fly Tying – Bob Zagar – 314.849.0092 Webmaster : Al Bourisaw [email protected] Newsletter: Bill Leslie – [email protected] 1 med onion, chopped (1/2 cup) 1 med green bell pepper, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided 1 lb uncooked ground turkey 3 Tbsp chili powder (I used a little less) 1 Tbsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 cup salsa 2 16-oz tubes refrigerated cooked polenta (or you can make your own fresh polenta) 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese 2 cups shredded Cheddar/Monterey Jack cheese 2/3 cup chopped fresh tomato 1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro Preheat oven to 375º F. In a 12-in skillet cook onion, bell pepper and garlic in 1 Tbsp olive oil until tender. Add turkey, chili powder, cumin and cayenne. Cook until turkey is no longer pink, stirring to break up meat. Add beans, undrained tomatoes and salsa. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, grease a 3-qt rectangular baking dish with the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil. Cut 1 tube of polenta into 1/2-in cubes; press evenly into prepared baking dish. Halve the remaining polenta lengthwise and cut into 1/2-in-thick slices; set aside. This works best if you allow the tube polenta come to room temperature. Sprinkle 2 cups of the cheese over polenta in dish. Top with meat mixture. Arrange sliced polenta over meat; sprinkle with remaining cheese and fresh tomato. Bake, uncovered, for 35 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with cilantro. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Yield: 12 servings Note: don't skimp on the cheese and definitely use fresh tomatoes and cilantro! Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 January 2009 BANQUET NEWS Well folks it’s almost that time again. The annual Ozark Fly Fishers banquet is drawing near. For those who have sent in your reservation, thanks. For those of you who have not, please, send in your reservation form as soon as possible. This is the one fund raising event the club relies on for our operating expenses for the New Year. This night will feature a silent auction, a raffle drawing and a live auction featuring master auctioneer Johnny Chamness. Johnny was the auctioneer 2 years ago. A night with Johnny is one never to be forgotten. We will also have a live DJ who will be at your disposal for requests. Some of the items we will have are: ½ day guided trip on Lake Taneycomo by River Run outfitters all equipment included, Simms Gortex waders donated by Feather-Craft, overnight warm water trip donated by Bill Hoagland, Sage 5wt 9’ Zaxis rod, Steve Antonic is making a custom rod with blanks donated by Feather-Craft. Steve is one of the premier rod builders in the country, 16 piece dinner set, Sport ZL pontoon boat, Fishpond rolling duffel, Bob Temper will be donating several of his famous fly plates. Bob’s work is outstanding and each one is one of a kind. There will be a fly plate of flies tied by the board members, and not least a one of a kind neon sign donated by Anhueser –Busch. This is a very short list of some of the items you will have a chance to take home. So as I said this will be an evening of fun and comradery. If you have any items you would like to donate to the auction please contact me, I will make arrangements to pick them up. You can reach me at 314-974-2046 I want to thank the over 100 members and visitors who made it to the December meeting. You never cease to amaze me with the number of you who attend the meetings. The guest speaker Brian Wise was truly amazed by the turn out. His presentation of the North Fork of the White was well put together. By the way he has donated a trip with him on the White for the auction. Pro-Staff Federation of Fly Fishers Conserving ~ Restoring ~ Education through Fly Fishing In this Issue January Banquet President’s Message Name Tags All Day with Lefty Kreh Membership Renewal Membership Application February Montauk Outing Membership Report New Members Fit to Fish Project Healing Waters Education Members Only Classes Gone Fishing Busch Wildlife Classes Conservation Action vs. Inaction Random Thoughts Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie 1 2 2 3 4 4 5 6 6 6 7 8 9 9 11 11 12 13 13 Ozark Fly Fishers meet the fourth Thursday of each month at Queeny Park. 550 Weidman Road – Community Room – 7:00 PM. The newsletter is published eleven times each year and can be found on the club’s website or is mailed to members who request a mailing. The newsletter submission deadline is the 11th day of each month. Articles for the November /December newsletter must be submitted by November 11th. Newsletter articles can be submitted to Bill Leslie at [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 2 Presidents Message Mike Swederska Now that the two big holidays are over and everyone got those great fly-fishing items they have been wanting all year, it is time to start planning to get wet in 09. Maybe I will see you at Montauk on our upcoming FYAO outing. I personally decided that my body is getting out of shape. This was not a new year’s resolution to start on the first like a lot of other have done in the past. I started to do something about it back in November after Reading an article by Jeremy Koerber. The article was on getting in shape for deer hunting. I contacted him to inquire if he would write an article to get fly fisherman in shape for our newsletter. He agreed so look for it in this month’s newsletter. I started a little bike riding along with some weight lifting to keep up the strength that I will need to walk and cast a creek for 8 hours non-stop. Ok, maybe 4 hours but that is a very long time if you are out of shape. By setting a goal that has fly-fishing included I know I will not give up on the training. What I have done to make the time go by faster while I am on the stationary bike is to play a fly-fishing video. I really enjoy working my legs and keeping up the cardio while watching others either tie flies or fish some place I have never been. I did notice that my heart rate does not go up when big fish are caught or even talked about. But it does when I see a wonderful small spring creek full of riffles, plunge pools and overhanging ledges just teeming with little wild trout. Whether it is in the Smokies or the Rockies it still gets my heart pumping faster. I never noticed that before until I was wearing a heart rate monitor for exercising. As we all should know, Ozark Fly Fishers is Stream Team 31. But did everyone know that one of the originators of the Stream Team program is our very own Marty King? On the twentieth birthday of Stream Team, I thought I would mention this fact. It seems that Marty King sat on the committee of Conservation Federation of Missouri Rivers and Streams when he mocked-up a promotional brochure and handed it to Mark Van Patten. The brochure was the first of its kind promoting the idea of Stream Teams. Mr. Van Patten did not give the brochure much thought and set it aside until one day he gave it a second look. He realized what a wonderful idea it was, sent it in and the first ever Stream Team was born. Roubidoux Fly Fishers was Stream Team #1. Now you’re wondering why Ozark was not the first. Well, I cannot answer that question because I only get hypothetical answers from the great ancient ones of our club. I will say this about Marty King. He is a great guy! I had the privilege being a part of our club becoming the Stream Team for Blue Springs Creek and Marty was one of us there on that great day. What a great day, now knowing that one of the originators of the program was a part of that day. Thank you Marty, from OFF and the many thousands of members of Stream Teams, for having the insight to make it happen. In the last two years OFF has really taken on the idea of Stream Team again. We have reinitiated the Stream Team program on the Current River with great success. Just last year the club adopted Blue Springs Creek and the forest watershed around it. There has been a contingent of members testing the water quality. If you have not participated in any of the Stream Team projects that Ozark has done in the last two years, get ready!! We will have a bunch more in the upcoming two years. If you need more information on OFF Stream Team projects, please contact Bob Temper. Name Tags Don’t forget to wear your OFF Name Badge at every meeting! It is very helpful, with more than three hundred members, for people to give a quick glance at your name badge and see who you are. Lots of effort goes into making the badges and bringing them to the meetings, so please make an effort to wear yours. If you don’t have one (basically, you lost yours), then let us know and we will replace it. Dave Haas has a number of name badges in his possession and would like for everyone to “grab and go” with them. Also, bonus tickets to the raffle are an added incentive if you are wearing your name badge. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 3 ALL DAY MEETING with Lefty Kreh February 21,2009 The all day meeting this year will feature Lefty Kreh, as most of you know lefty is the foremost authority in our sport. When Lefty talks, people listen. February 21 is the magical day, we will have the opportunity to see and hear the grandmaster enlighten us on casting and knot tying. He will be retelling some of his favorite stories and tales. Lefty is cutting back his speaking engagements so this may be the last time you get to see him in person. The meeting will be held at the Creve Coeur Government center on New Ballas Road. This is between Olive and HWY 40. We will start promptly at 8:30 AM and go as long as we need. Lefty will be available for autographs after the program is over. Bring your own books or gear for him to sign. I will have Lefty’s book on casting at the meeting to auction off. The winner can get it autographed and have his picture taken with Lefty. He is expecting a full house as I have bragged on the number of members we have at each meeting so let’s spread the word and fill the room. Membership Renewal for 2009—Final Reminder Dave Haas If you have not yet renewed your Ozark membership for 2009 you have missed the timely renewal period, and you will have to renew at the late renewal rate at an increased cost for individual, senior, and family memberships. The good news is that you can still renew in time to have your name included in the 2009 Ozark Membership Directory, and you will not miss any issues of the Ozark newsletter, if we receive your renewal form and check on or before January 31. Memberships not renewed by January 31 will be terminated. If you wish to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U. S. mail you must check the appropriate box on the renewal form. Of course, if you have not provided us with your e-mail address you will continue to receive a paper newsletter. Continued on page 4 Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 4 Membership Renewal for 2009—Final Reminder . . . Don’t miss any of the outstanding programs, speakers, or events planned for 2009. Lefty Kreh’s presentations at the All-Day meeting are sure to be the highlight of the year. Be a part of the efforts of Ozark Fly Fishers on behalf of the conservation of our fisheries resources. Take advantage of our educational classes. If you haven’t already renewed, do it NOW! Fill out the membership application attached to this newsletter and mail it in with your check a.s.a.p.! This is the last time a reminder and renewal form for 2009 will appear in the Ozark newsletter. Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Application PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Date ______________________________ Name __________________________________________________________________ Spouse/Family __________________________________________________________ Number & Street ________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________ Phone Numbers: Home _______________________ Work ______________________ Cell ______________________ E-Mail Address _______________________________ If you want to receive a paper copy of the newsletter through the U.S. mail IN ADDITION TO an e-mail reminder when the monthly club newsletter appears on our web site, check here. _____ Other Club Memberships (check all that apply) Conservation Federation of Missouri _____ Smallmouth Alliance _____ * Federation of Fly Fishers _____ Trout Unlimited _____ * F.F.F. members who are Illinois residents should request membership in the Southern Council on their F.F.F. membership application or by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Dues (check only ONE item below) NEW member, or LATE renewal (January 2nd or AFTER) Individual--$30 _____ Senior (65+)--$20 _____ Commercial--$50 _____ Family--$35 _____ Corporate--$250 _____ (NEW members joining in October or later are automatically renewed for the following year.) Mail this form and a check payable to Ozark Fly Fishers to: (PLEASE do NOT attach check to form.) Ozark Fly Fishers Membership Committee P. O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 5 February Outing at Montauk - Update Ted Calcaterra [email protected] (636) 305-1085 th The club will have its first annual Montauk outing on the weekend of February 6-8 to close the winter catch and release season. The normal December outing has grown over the past few years and has been known to many as the FYAO outing due to the cold weather, frozen fingers, and ice in the guides. To help keep you warm at night the club has 8 two bedroom units reserved. More information about the rooms can be found on their website listed below. Additional lodging is available should the need arise. The deadline for signing up for this year’s event is Wednesday January 28 th. All cabins include a kitchen so lunch and dinner is on your own. Rates for the cabin rentals are listed below based on double occupancy and are for Friday and Saturday nights. Please make a check payable to Ozark Flyfishers and sent to me at the following address. Please feel free to contact me should you have additional information. http://www.missouritrout.com/montauklodge/facilities.html Cabin #30-33 Cabin #26,29 Cabin #27,28 2 nights $202 2 nights $268 2 nights $288 Ozark Flyfishers Ted Calcaterra 452 Hamilton Meadows Fenton MO 63026 Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 6 Membership Data Base Report New Members By Dave Haas (Membership Committee - Database & Directory) Welcome to the following new members. Last reported membership on 12-10-2008 New memberships since 12-10-2008 Former members rejoining since 12-10-2008 Total memberships as of 1-11-20 355 7 3 365 A year ago (January 9, 2008) 344 Annual gain or (loss) Renewals for 2009 Renewals a year ago (January 9, 2008) 21 231 188 6.1% 63 % 55% Steve Black St. Charles, MO Robert Blaine Kirkwood, MO Tim Branson Eureka, MO Thomas C. Clements St. Louis, MO Curt Corcoran Springfield, IL Eli Deal St. Louis, MO Mike Jacobs St. Louis, MO Ty Livingstone Somewhere in the Ozarks Bobbi Neal St. Charles, MO Duane Oehmen St. Louis, MO Donald Sahrhage St. Louis, MO Bob Schweitzer St. Louis, MO Michael Scoffic St. Peters, MO This represents a new all-time high membership for Ozark Fly Fishers, and we still have the rest of this month to go before we close the books on our current year’s membership at the end of January, 2009. This is the third year in a row that Ozark has set a new membership record. Fit to Fish By: Jeremy Koerber, MA Health Fitness Specialist and Owner Integrated Wellness Concepts, LLC It doesn’t take long once you have hooked even a dink of a trout to know you have something on the line. That may be one of the most entertaining things about trout fishing; even a small trout can feel like a whopper due to the strength and stamina of each fish and with good reason. If you spent all day swimming up and down swift currents, you would be in pretty good shape yourself! Unfortunately, not every fisherman is in the best physical shape when the opening horn sounds and that cuts down on their enjoyment of the sport. Sure we will go out and drop cash on equipment, travel and apparel for opening day but when it comes to investing in ourselves, we often fall short. The good news is, a little work goes a long way in improving your next fishing adventure and I am going to show you how! ● Core Strength: Most people think the “core” involves only the abdominal and low-back muscles but they also include the gluteus maximus (your behind) and other muscles of the hips. Everything you do is initiated from your core and a weakness often signals poor performance in the field. Make sure you strengthen not only your abdominal and low back muscles but also your hamstrings, glutes, and upper back. This will improve your strength, stamina and posture all resulting in a better outdoor experience. ● Balance: Falls, trips and spills are a part of fly-fishing that you cannot 100% eradicates but you can limit with a little practice. These exercises are easily assimilated into your daily life because you can do them anywhere at anytime. For example, stand on one foot for as long as you can while talking on the phone. When you have to put your other foot down to catch yourself, switch out and do the same with the other foot. Another great exercise is walking the line (my clients call it the drunk test). Start by looking straight ahead and then walk a line, real or imaginary, by taking one foot forward and placing it in front of the other. The trick is to touch the toes of your plant foot with your heel of the foot moving forward with every step. Once you get good moving forward try the same exercise…backwards! Continued on page 7 Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Fit to Fish (continued from page 7) ● Manual Dexterity and Flexibility: Arthritis can decimate your ability to tie flies and limit motion in your hands, wrists and shoulders when casting. To improve your flexibility in your hands, make an “O” by taking the tip of each finger and touching your thumb. Hold for 3-5 seconds and switch. Next, gently make “cat paws” with each hand by crinkling up the tips of your fingers towards your palms. Hold for 3-5 seconds. Wrist circles will improve range of motion and serve as a good warm-up for casting. Perform 10 circles one way and then switch directions. ● Pre-rehab Exercises: What do you and pitchers have in common? You need strong rotator cuffs! Perform 1-2 sets of 15-20 repetitions of internal and external rotations two-three times per week. These are exercises most often prescribed for shoulder woes after an injury occurs. By including it in your routine before injury strikes, you will limit your chances of injury and improve your casting abilities. ● Equipment: The good news is that you do not need a ton of expensive equipment. You can improve your fishing experiences with an investment in a properly fitted stability ball and some resistance tubing. The total investment is $50-60. ● Time Investment: Again, the good news is a workout routine specifically designed for improving your fly fishing can be accomplished in 20-30 minutes, three days per week. That is it! The goal is not to build big, bulky muscles; you want functional strength that you can tap into when you step into the Page 7 water opening morning. At that point, no one cares how big your biceps are, but if you have the stamina to fish for longer periods, that big rainbow you land might impress a few bystanders! It is a shame that as we get older we gain greater knowledge on how to land the “big one” but lose the physical abilities to do so. You cannot stop father time but you can darn sure slow him down and in some cases, turn back the clock. There is a difference between chronological age and fitness age and if you don’t believe me, just ask my 67-year-old client who strapped on a 40-pound backpack and hiked up a volcano in South America! She didn’t pay attention to how old she was. She just wanted to hike up a volcano! Your next fly fishing experience probably won’t be near as daunting but I guarantee that if you invest the time in improving your physical abilities now, it will provide amazing dividends in March when the horn sounds! Jeremy Koerber is a certified ACSM Health Fitness Specialist and owner of Integrated Wellness Concepts, LLC in St. Louis, MO. He can be reached at [email protected] Integrated Wellness Concepts, LLC © 2008 Project Healing Waters Clinton Carpenter GOOD NEWS! We are near our goal of getting our first day of fly tying with the Vets at Jefferson Barracks. As any of you that have experience working through the government to get a work project going getting through the piles of red tape is only a small part of the problem. At this time we are really close to doing the first class. I spoke with healing waters coordinator recently and should have materials to use in the class shipped to me soon. I will coordinate with JB as soon as the materials arrive to schedule the first class. At this time I really need those of you that volunteered to step up. My associate, Jim Volkman, had a very bad accident on Christmas when he fell and broke his hip. He will not be able to assist for some time. I ask again for those of you who wish to help let me know and resassure I will be calling and letting you know when we will start. This is really exiting; people I speak with about the program think this is great our club is willing to be involved helping those who gave so much for us. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated. I will send more news as it is available to me. Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 8 Education Malcolm Royse “Go Fish” New Volunteer Training The “Go Fish” Program introduces young people, ages 8 to 15, to the joys of fishing, starting from the worm, to the fly, and everything in between. The program will be conducting a training session for new volunteers, Sunday, March 29, 2009, from 1 p.m. till 6 p.m., at August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area in Weldon Springs, Missouri. The program will be held in classrooms A and B. The training is required to go over all 7 parts of the program and all the legal information required by law when a person works with young people. If you are planning to attend the training, please contact Denise Otto at 636-300-1953 x 243 or [email protected] to register. If you have any questions about the program, or how rewarding it is, please feel free to talk with Mike Krueger, Bob Temper, or Malcolm Royse. The Program runs at 4 sites, Suson Park, Forest Park, Bellfountain Park, and Busch Wildlife. The kids are great and I personally receive much more then I give. There are not meetings after training, just fishing with kids, and really doing something, not just talking about what needs to be done. “Go Fish” is a Missouri Department of Conservation program. For more information, go to http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/stlouis/ “Go Fish” Trout Days There will be 3 Trout Fishing Days at all 4 “Go Fish” sites, which will be to fly fish. The days of the programs are as follows: Saturday - Jan. 31, 2009 - 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday - Feb. 14, 2009 - 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday - Feb. 28, 2009 - 2p.m. - 4p.m. All sites will be staffed with “Go Fish” staff to do all the set up, but most of these people have no working knowledge of fly fishing. You will need to show up 2 hours early to get to know the water, find the fish and the fly that is working. Please do not fish any hole out, but get a good working knowledge of your lake. Also there are 6 new fly rods at each site that will need to be set up with what will work. This might require that we dig into our fly’s at times, but when a kid catches a fish in a hole we found with one of our fly’s, what can I say, it is magic. There will be spin cast equipment for those kids that want to fish with lures. Kids with a trout tag will be able to harvest a limit. If you can help on any of these days please contact Malcolm Royse at 636-329-1504 or [email protected]. I am hoping to have 5 members at each site, so that there can be some real one-on-one training. Kids Safety Pin Fly’s Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You people are the greatest. I have received 21 dozen fly’s to date. Please keep up the good work. The kids get the biggest smiles when we pin these things on their hats or shirts. I have begun to have some concerns about some very strange minds that come up with some of these creations. What and where and why, did some of these materials end up on our tying tables? There must be some great stories on who told you that some of this stuff would catch trout. Stop by the Education Table and take a look at some of these works of fun. This should be something that the kid in you wants, so go for it. Remember you can be serious at work. This project goes on all year long, so anytime a good time to tie some up. Education - Continued on page 9 Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 9 Education - Continued Stream Team 31 Introductory Training The Stream Team Introductory Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Training will be held at Montauk State Park, Friday afternoon, April 3, and Saturday morning, April 4, 2009. Each half day will be 4 hours of classroom training with an on stream, hands-on training. You will receive all testing equipment at the end of your training. Those attending must attend both days to become a Certified Stream Team Volunteer Water Quality Monitor. Those planning on attending must contact Priscilla Stotts ([email protected]) or call her at 573-526-3406. There are only 28 slots in this program and it is first come first served, although we are being given early knowledge so there should be an opening for you. There are no costs to you for the program, but all food and lodging are up to you. Lodging at Montauk can be made by calling 573-548-2585. Last year many of us went down and fished Friday morning till 11:00, went to the program, and fished Saturday afternoon. Most of us stayed over Sunday, fished and headed for the hills, making for a great weekend. The workshop is well worth your time and effort and O.F.F. could sure us some more trained people to help expand our clubs monitoring activities. If you are planning on attending and sign up, would you let Bob Temper know, as he is our Stream Team Coordinator. Bob’s phone number is 314-894-0319. Members Only Classes for 2009 All classes are taught on Tuesday starting at 7:00 PM and will end at 9:00 PM. Classes will be offered at Powder Valley Conservation Area in Kirkwood. January 27, 2009 -Fishing at Montauk Want to be successful at the August Montauk Outing or the February FYAO Montauk? Mike Swederska and friends will be discussing and tying patterns to use at Montauk. Mike will tie at least one of his great parachute patterns so it will be a good class. Bring your own tools. All materials will be provided. February 10, 2009 - Ozark Fly Fishers Fly Box This will be an open forum to discuss the successful fly. Among other topics, the discussion will center on: Favorites Sizes Colors What works March 10, April 14, May 12 – TBD “Gone Fishing” - St. Louis County Classes These classes are presented by St. Louis County Parks. Many of the programs are taught by Ozark Fly Fishers members. www.stlouisco.com/parks/gf/GoneFishin2008.pdf Introduction to Fly Tying This four-night class will teach you all you need to know to enjoy a lifetime of creating your own flies for trout, panfish and bass. The course includes all materials and supplies and use of all necessary equipment. Expert tiers from the Ozark Fly Fishers will teach the course. Advance registration is required. Call 314-615-4FUN (4386). OA-18769 Thursday Jan. 8-29 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35 per person Intermediate Fly Tying This 8-hour class is for tiers that have mastered the basics. Eight different fly patterns will be taught by the Ozark Fly Fishers. All materials, tools and equipment are provided during the class. Participants should bring a fly box for transport of their finished flies. Advanced registration is required. Call 314-615-4FUN (4386). OA-18775 Thursday Feb. 5-26 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35 per person Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 10 Continued on page 10 “Gone Fishing” (continued from page 9) Reading the Water It is often said that 10 percent of the anglers catch 90 percent of the fish! Smart anglers know that 90 percent of the fish are in just 10 percent of the water. This Ozark Fly Fisher’s course will help you break down the sections of a stream and identify the most likely holding places for fish. Tickets are available at the door only! OA-18776 Monday Feb. 9 7:30-9:30 p.m. $6 per person World Class - The Best Fly Fishing on Earth OFF member Dr. George Bohigian will examine the top 20 trout streams in America and explore the methods for selecting and fishing these streams. Dr. Bohigian will also relate practical tips, explain philosophical aspects and describe the best of American and exotic trout ‘hot spots’ from around the world. Tickets available at the door only! CLA-18763 Wednesday Feb. 18 7:30-9:30 p.m. $6 per person Fly Fishing Missouri Trout Parks This two-hour program will examine the trout parks of Missouri including Meramec Springs, Montauk, Bennett Springs and Roaring River by reviewing the parts of the streams, fishing regulations, rods, reels, lines, flies, and other equipment. Riggings, presentation and casting techniques will also be covered. The program will conclude with a look at the park hatches, a review of stream insects and suggestions on restaurants and lodging. Tickets are available at the door only! OA-18774 Monday Feb. 23 7:30-9:30 p.m. $6 per person Fishing Dry Flies, Wet Flies and Nymphs There is not a more exciting way to catch fish than on dry flies! Learn from the Ozark Fly Fishers about the tactics, techniques, and flies that will improve your dry fly fishing ability. Nymphs and wet flies provide productive patterns for catching a wide variety of species. This seminar will address equipment, leaders, tippets, flies, productive waters, and techniques of nymph and wet fly presentation. Tickets are available at the door only! CLA-18777 Wednesday March 11 7:30-9:30 p.m. $6 per person Intro to Fly Fishing The Ozark Fly Fishers introduce you to fly angling in this comprehensive four meeting class. Each night learn about another aspect of the great sport of fly fishing. This is the perfect start for budding fly anglers. Advance registration is required. Call 314-615-4FUN (4386). OA-18778 Monday April 6-27 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35 per person Intermediate Fly Casting at Tilles Park This three-part class is for those who have mastered the basic cast and is not for beginners! Federation of Fly Fishers certified casting instructors will teach you advanced casting techniques including the mend, wiggle and double haul casts. Advanced registration is required. Call 314-615-4FUN (4386). OA-18785 Monday May 4-18 7-8:30 p.m. $25 per person Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 11 Busch Wildlife Classes Busch Wildlife classes are taught in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Conservation. With the exception of the on the water class, all classes will be held at the August Busch Wildlife Center. All classes are free, however, there are enrollment quotas. Go to MDC Calendar for registration information. January 17, 2009 - Getting Started in Fly Fishing This one morning seminar is designed to be your one stop opportunity to learn all about the art of fly-fishing. You will learn about rods, reels, lines, knots and much more. This is the perfect introduction to the sport. 9:00 AM - Noon January 31, 2009 - Fishing Missouri Trout Parks This two hour plus program will look at fishing the trout parks in Missouri – Maramec Springs, Montauk, Bennett Springs and Roaring River. The program will review the parts of the streams and fishing regulations. Such items as rods, reels, lines flies, and other equipment will be reviewed. Riggings, presentation and casting techniques will be covered. The student will look at the park hatches and a review of stream insects. Suggested restaurant and lodging will be made. 9:00 AM - Noon February 14, 2009 - Fly Fishing Techniques This class is designed for the fly fisher who has mastered the basics of knots, casting, and fly patterns. Topics include presentation, reading the water, and hatches. 9:00 AM - Noon February 28, 2009 - Fly Tying – Basics This three-hour class will teach you all you need to know to enjoy a lifetime of creating your own flies for trout, pan fish, and bass. The course includes all materials and use of tools and equipment. Best of all you can use the flies you tie to catch fish this season! Members of the Ozark Fly Fishers will lead you step by step through several fly patterns and techniques. Perfect for the novice or beginning fly tier. Participants should bring a fly box or film canister to store flies.9:00 AM - Noon March 14, 2009 - Fly Tying – Intermediate This three-hour class is for those who have mastered the basics. You will learn to make a dry fly and complicated nymph patterns. All materials and use of equipment is free. Participants should bring a fly box or container for flies. 9:00 AM - Noon March 28, 2009 - Knots and Casting This on the water class will provide the fly fisher some of the most used and successful knots for their fly fishing system. Ample time will also be provided for casting instruction and perhaps catching a fish. 9:00 - Noon Conservation Wallis W Warren Boundaries don’t protect rivers, people do.” — Brad Arrowsmith Feb 4-6 Missouri Natural Resource Conference 2009 is starting with a full calendar for conservation. OFF will have representatives attending these and other programs throughout the year. If you are interested in participating or leaning more, please contact me. An annual meeting organized and sponsored by the Missouri chapter of the American Fisheries Society. The theme this year is ‘Global Trends, Missouri Impacts: Adapting to Climate Change. There will be a symposium of speakers and workshops covering a wide range of related topics, many of which directly impact the quality of our fisheries. Jan - April Jefferson City MDNR Small Streams Workgroup Only half of Missouri’s streams meet the water quality goals established in the 1972 Clean Water Act. The State has failed to implement key requirements of the Clean Water Act, including the classification of our streams. The purpose of these meetings is to discuss how to apply the water quality standards to Missouri’s smaller, unclassified waters. The goal is to propose a classification system that appropriately recognized the aquatic life and recreational uses supported by small streams. 2009 Legislative Session: The legislature is in session with many new faces, all of whom will impact the conservation community to some degree. Although we do not have any legislation under consideration at this time, we anticipate some recurring issues to be addressed again. Following is some background information concerning two of these issues: In Stream Sand & Gravel Mining: In southern Missouri, gravel is mined extensively from the channels and flood plains of streams. Research in other regions has shown that instream gravel mining destabilizes stream channels and substantially degrades streams and associated wetland habitats. In Missouri, non-commercial, local government and county highway departments, the greatest users of this gravel, do not need mining permits to remove gravel. Most gravel mining sites are not permitted by the State. In addition to changing the aesthetic character of a stream, instream gravel mining potentially alters channel depth and width, riparian vegetation, streambed substrate texture, bank vegetation, substrate and aquatic habitat. Gravel mining can result in head cutting, channel incision and lateral instability, increasing steam gradient, channel relocation, scouring and erosion. These physical changes can result in increased stream turbidity Continued on page 12 Ozark Fly Fishers Conservation (continued from page 11) and temperature. The removal of the larger gravel particles release fine sediment into the stream system, which can cause overall reduction in biological diversity and production. Increased turbidity can affect fish by reducing their feeding efficiency, reducing their tolerance to diseases, and increasing their overall physiological stress. Increased sediment loads also can disrupt fish reproductive success. CAFOs (Confined Animal Feeding Operations) Although often touted as ‘family farms’ CAFOs are a far cry from that. While often a local farmer owns the land (sometimes even the facility) generally a large, corporate parent company owns the actual animals being held at the facility. This ownership structure can shield the larger corporations from liability in the event of a spill and can create a political ‘cover’ in the form of ‘small farmers’. It allows these large operations (a normal size CAFO might have 4,000 hogs ~ producing approximately the same waste as a city of 10,000 people) to benefit from the exemption agriculture receives from most air and water quality standards and January 2009 regulations that govern manufacturing and other heavy industry. The waste from these facilities is typically collected in large man-made lagoons where the degraded waste is usually applied to local farmland as fertilizer; however this is highly concentrated material which often results in the soil becoming saturated with chemicals such as phosphorus, nitrate and ammonia. Rainfall causes these chemicals to leech from the soil and contaminate underground water supplies, or runoff into streams. There are no meaningful national or state-wide regulations of CAFOs. The Missouri General Assembly has refused to pass any meaningful legislation that has been proposed in recent years, to the advantage of agribusiness. While Farm Bureau often touts their support of ‘family farms’, in actuality they are supporters of agribusiness and more often than not oppose efforts of small farmers throughout the state whose livelihoods are being threatened by agribusinesses. Since agriculture does not have to comply with most air and water regulations, many communities must pass local health ordinances to oppose these facilities. In the 2007 session, a bill backed by the Farm Bureau was Page 12 sponsored to eliminate the ability of counties to pass local health ordinances! Several of the current Representatives from these areas have won seats based on their opposition to CAFOs. As we have asked in previous sessions, there will no doubt be a time that we ask you to contact your local representative to support or oppose a bill that will protect the quality of our rivers and streams. I cannot emphasize enough how important your response is to your elected official. Many times, hearing from 4 or 5 constituents on a specific bill is enough to focus your representative’s attention on an issue and give us the support we need. If you do not know your representatives/senators, you can find their information by going to: tp://www.senate.mo.gov/llookup/leg_look up.aspx They do appreciate hearing from you, so when asked, please take the time to let them know your concerns. Ref USGS Instream Gravel Mining and Related Issues in Southern Missouri – Suzanne Femmer MVC’s Position on CAFOs Missouri – The Dilemma of Action vs. Inaction on Protecting Our Waters By Bob Temper The Federal Clean Water Act requires that each state identify waters that are not meeting water quality standards and for which adequate water pollution controls have not been required. Water quality standards protect such beneficial uses of water as whole body contact (such as swimming), maintaining fish and other aquatic life, and providing drinking water for people, livestock and wildlife. The 303(d) List helps state and federal agencies keep track of waters that are impaired but not addressed by normal water pollution control programs. Missouri is one of four states that have not classified its waters. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) can classify streams in the future in a technically competent manor and protect the public waters of the state or they can define classification in such a way as to avoid listing and the required department work to regulate the safety of such waters. The Missouri DNR is seeking public comment on the proposed revisions to the 303(d) Listing Methodology. The methodology is open to the public for review and comment until Feb. 16. The department will use the final methodology to evaluate waters for the 2010 Impaired Waters List. The listing methodology sets out the procedures for identifying streams and lakes that are not meeting Missouri's water quality standards. These waters, when identified, may be eligible for placement on an impaired waters list indicating the need for water quality restoration. The list, which is required under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, may lead to the development of plans to reduce the pollutants discharged into the listed waters. Citizens may view the proposed 2010 Listing Methodology on the department's Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/ waterquality/ 303d.htm. The department has provided two versions of the proposed methodology. In one version, the proposed deletions appear as strikeouts and the additions as bold text. In the other version, the changes are not highlighted. If unable to access the information through the Web, citizens may request copies of the lists from the department's Water Protection Program by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1300. The department will accept written comments on the proposed revisions to the methodology until 5 p.m., Feb. 16. Citizens can submit comments in writing to the Department of Natural Resources, Attention John Ford, Water Protection Program, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102, by e-mail to [email protected] or by fax to 573-5229920. After the close of the comment period, the department will review all comments and make any necessary revisions to the listing methodology before asking the Missouri Clean Water Commission to approve the document. For more information on the 303(d) List and the Listing Methodology, please visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/waterquality/303d.htm. For more information about the department's Water Protection Program, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/index.html or call 573-751-1300 or 800-3614827. Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Page 13 Random Thoughts by Ty Livingstone – January 2009 HERE ‘S TO THE GOOD GUYS! a poet, historian, world traveler, artist, conservationist, and much, much more – truly a Renaissance Man if there ever was one. He was the recipient of several other awards. Passion and compassion just oozed out of the guy…sadly, he left us on October 7th, 2008. Eighty great years of giving it all he had. We will miss him…a bunch. In my last column I was on a rant (and a little rave…or some might say rage) and a good friend of mine suggested I should change the name of my column to “Tyrade” (correctly spelled tirade)…not a bad idea and I will take it under consideration. However, the election is now behind us and we all need to move forward with our lives. If you don’t like the way things turned out, get involved in the process. As citizens we have an obligation to do that…we can all make a difference. Let’s not get too cynical (preaching to myself, here). A New Year is upon us…a fresh start…time to focus on future and live in the present. Do I hear Halleluiah, Amen? Make it your best year ever. Now, time to change gears on you. I wanted to focus some energy on a few people that have made a huge difference in the fly fishing community…or also known as “the good guys (and gals)”. This past few months have we have lost several or our friends that have literally helped to “change the world”. In 1999, I had the good fortune of attending the Fly Fishing Federation national conclave and as a result, got to meet Mel Krieger and see him receive the Ambassador Award. This honor is presented annually to the fly fisher who meets certain high standards of sportsmanship, fishing skill and stream side etiquette in taking and conserving game fish internationally. He most certainly deserves it. I was able to get to know him and his wife Fanny a little and I was very impressed with Mel and his commitment to all things good in the fly fishing world. He was not only one of the most proficient casters and teachers, but he was much more complex than that – a combination of Ed Story – when you hear the name, you just think “class act” and all around great guy…a gentleman in the purest sense of the word. I know that I have personally caught my fish on a Crackleback than any other fly in my boxes (and I have a whole lot of flies in my boxes – half of which I have no idea what they are or where I got them) and it is my favorite fly to tie. That was only one of Ed’s many creations, but it was a doozey. Thanks for sharing, Ed. Everyone Ed met became a friend…he was always willing to share an idea, to teach, and to inspire. His enthusiasm and love for our sport and conservation literally made the Land of Fly Fishing a better place to visit. The Feather-Craft mail order catalogue has a huge following, including celebrities and other famous folk from around the globe. The personal commentary from Ed made it that much more enjoyable (“I love this item and would not fish without it” – Ed) and thousands of people have looked forward to their next issue for many years. Little known was the fact that Ed was also a very big support of Project Healing Waters and a veteran himself – his shop sold more PHW gear than anyone else in the country, with a portion of the sale going directly back to the program. Most importantly, Ed was a family man…I know his family will miss him tremendously. He moved on to better waters August of 2008. I want to offer a big thank you to the Story family for sharing this wonderful guy with us. He touched so many of us in a very special way…his legacy will live on. We lost another hero and good friend this year that had touched many lives and most certainly has left the world better than he found it. George Purvis…a name probably not known to many of you, but a huge champion of the conservation cause nonetheless. George left us on August 15th at the age of 83. We met through some mutual friends in the 1960’s and I remember being impressed with the number of things he was working on at the time. George was a pioneer that committed his life to a number of initiatives that have positively and profoundly impacted the state of Arkansas – particularly with regard to hunting and fishing. He was totally dedicated to improving the state of conservation and was known for his ethics and commitment to educating folks. He was a writer, an artist, a photographer, produced and starred in videos, had his own radio show, and published a magazine for the state. His work involved a multitude of different media. He loved duck hunting, but was also known to fish. If you enjoy the great outdoors in Arkansas on occasion, you probably owe George a little gratitude. Husband, Father, Grandfather…an outdoorsman in every sense of the word. Thanks, George. There were others that we lost this past year and will dearly miss. We still have many heroes among the living that are making a difference. I have two take homes for all of you…first, take a moment and think about who your heroes are…those people that have made a profound impact on your life…those people that have touched you or those around you in a special way…those that have handled themselves with style and grace…those that have served others so faithfully…taught you, motivated you, challenged you, or cared about your…how lucky are we to have them. Tell them you appreciate them and thank then for what you have done. Secondly, aspire to be one of them…we need more heroes in this world…set your sights high and reach for that goal. You can do both of those things. You think about that…TL You can visit all of my past columns on my blog at http://tylivingstone.blogspot.com and if you want to drop me a line you can e-mail me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie This comes from Larry Carli 1-refrigerated pie crust (1/2 of 15-oz package) or make your own. 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 3/4 cup light corn syrup 1/2 cup butter 4 eggs, well beaten 1/4 cup bourbon 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 tsp salt 1 package (11.5 oz) bittersweet chocolate chips (Ghirardelli) 1package (6 oz) pecan halves, coarsely chopped Slowly and gently unroll crust. Place crust in ungreased 9-in deepdish pie plate. Press crust firmly against bottom and sides of pie plate and flute edges; set aside. In medium microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, corn syrup and butter. Microwave on high for 2 1/2 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking time, until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Cool slightly. In large bowl, combine eggs, bourbon, vanilla, and salt; mix well. Slowly pour brown sugar mixture into egg mixture, whisking constantly. Stir in 1 1/4 cups of the chocolate chips and the pecans. Pour mixture into pie shell. Spread remaining chocolate chips evenly over top of pie. Bake in 350ºF. oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until set and golden. Cool before serving. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired. Yield: 10 servings. Ozark Fly Fishers January 2009 Officers: President – Mike Swederska – 314.799.1998 Vice President – Mike Krueger – 314.721.3704 Secretary – Jerry Kniepman – 636.240.5096 Treasurer – Lou Juranas – 314.878.7442 Past President – Larry Carli – [email protected] Directors: Conservation – Wallis Warren – [email protected] Education – Malcolm Royce – 314.220.6007 Membership – Kevin Miquelon – 636.391.1112 Ways and Means – Bill Hale – 314.351.2214 Communications – Bill Leslie [email protected] Outings – Ted Calcaterra – 636.305.1085 Chairs: Fly Casting – Brian Ellis – 314.822.1819 Fly Tying – Bob Zagar – 314.849.0092 Webmaster : Al Bourisaw [email protected] Newsletter: Bill Leslie – [email protected] Ozark Fly Fishers P.O. Box 19753 St. Louis, MO 63144 Page 14
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