GO NORTH YOUNG MAN

July 8, 2008 - Is no revelation that things get a little funky around here once we enter the meat of the summer. Water temperatures rise, water levels drop and the classic hatches of spring are only a distant memory. Seeking some refuge from the doldrums Keith Jacobson, accompanied by his wife Karen, have been making bi-weekly treks to northern Maine's Rangeley Region in pursuit of "speckle beauties."

On one recent trek, this time in the company of his brother, water issues on their beloved piece of water forced the anglers to investigate the Magalloway River system. Incorporating a series of nymphs, bead heads, caddis and traditional the duo enjoyed some memorable fishing, as the enclosed photos will attest.

SWIFT RIVER REGS
As of July 1st the Swift River south of the Rt. 9 bridge reverts back to catch-and-release, artificials only, and will remain so until the end of the year. By the time this article is published stocking of the entire system, from the infamous Y-pool to Cady Lane should have been completed. The summer season traditionally offers the best fishing opportunities of the year as water remains cool and water levels settle into predictable levels. At last check the river was at 83 cfs providing almost unlimited access to the entire system.

FLY-FISHING ENTERS A NEW ERA
As reported by Angling Trade Magazine fly-fishing has entered a new era with the introduction of Bass on Fly Tournaments. The Hookup Outfitters, a guiding service located in Arizona that caters to warmwater fly anglers, sponsored the initial event held on April 4 and 5 of this year. The tournament was co-sponsored by Sage, Loomis, Hatch, Teeny, Orvis, Simms, Outcast, Mercury, Redington, Umpqua and Ranger.

A similar tournament was held in Stockton, California on May 30th organized by Jerry Seim of Sage, John Sherman, Kevin Doran, Ken Hanley and Keith Kaneko. The event featured a 32-team field with the top prize of just under $2,000 claimed by Steve Potter and Chuck Sterni.

GOOD LUCK GARY
Many years ago at a G. Loomis dealer meeting I had the opportunity to finally meet Gary Loomis. His passion for the sport along his dedication to producing the highest quality fly-fishing equipment is legendary. Recently Gary Loomis announced his retirement from the company he founded. We can all wish him health and happiness in whatever the future brings.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB