I am a newbie rod builder and was wondering how do you know if the spine on thisF1166/7 4 pc blank is all lined up correctly? Now that I have the blank I notice that when put together it isn’t very straight and kind of kinks this way and that way. Does this blank have a natural curve to it? Do all blanks? Each pc definitely has a pronounced wobble to it when rolled on a flat surface. Is this normal? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

I am planning on going to Montana in July and have spoken with 3 different outfitters and would like some input from folks that are familiar with them and which one they would recommend and why.

1) Four Rivers Fishing Co (Twin Bridges).

2) The Stonefly Inn & Outfitters (Twin Bridges).

3) Grizzly Hackle (Missoula).

Thanks for any and all input. P.S. If you know of someone that I missed that you feel I need to speak with then please let me know.

Check it out
NorthJersey.com: Cabela’s CEO says Xanadu store ‘highly unlikely’

Seems to be that we will not have Cabelas:holy:

I was really looking forward to it. Not to buy fly fishing stuff but to spend some time with me daughter during periods of the bad weather

A slight twist on the original Musky Shrimp – I am sure many others have made similar upgrades:

Hook: Tiemco 2487BL or similar curved hook (size 14 shown)
Thread: Orange
Beadhead: 3/32 Copper Tungsten Bead
Weight: .015 non-lead wire
Tail: Natural Wood Duck flank feather fibers
Shellback: Clear Thin Skin or similar
Ribbing – Small Copper Wire
Body – Cream/Light Tan fur mix dub (or similar synthetic) dubbed on the thread with a modest amount of Gold-Brown Ice Dub over the fur

I prefer the additional weight of the tungsten bead and wire and seem to get most of my strikes near the bottom. The Ice-Dub/fur blend adds a little “life” to the body, and the thin copper wire adds a little more durability than using thread – I have landed 15+ good-sized trout in an hour with the same fly, and it was as good as new. Also, take your time and use a sturdy but fine needle to pluck the dubbiing to make the legs in each section of the shrimp. I have found sizes 14 and 16 ideal for most NJ /PA limestoners.