SNOW BIRDS AND ANTICIPATION
I usually only fish one river. I guess it’s a combination of staying in the comfort zone and being a creature of habit. Then again, on the Ste-Marguerite River in Central Quebec, we’re just so well set up that it is pretty hard to go through the planning etc to go elsewhere.
The tents we rent on my home waters are 20 feet from some world famous Atlantic salmon pools
Since I changed jobs this winter, I won’t be as available to schedule Guiding gigs this 2010 season. A major blow to my fishing so I needed to start looking for new waters, ones that don’t freeze over in December.
So some friends are getting into salt water fly fishing in the winter months. After some serious blogging, a long discussion at a recent fly fishing get-together and some light hearted negotiations with Liliane, I reserved a weeklong trip south next Christmas. (Liliane gets to go to France for 3-4 weeks this summer).
Now the fun starts.
I haven’t explored new waters in over a decade, let along target species of fish that I have only seen in films! Bonefish, Jacks, Permit and Tarpon I only have a fleeting idea of what flies to use, let alone which rods, reels and lines I’ll need.
Boris – “All those years of salmon was just practice for this!!”
Thankfully, some of our friends here on FAOL are providing some terrific information. I also ordered a book on RJL’s recommendation.
I have no idea what flies are used where and when, so serious reading, discussions and practice is in order:
Peanut Butter de Enrico Puglis
I will start shopping around for gear. In the mean time, I’m trying to take my own advice when getting ready for a fishing trip.
I have references for the Guides. The Head Guide has over 20 years experience and he trains the other Guides there too, including his son.
I’m getting info from groups who went last year and the year before to get an idea on what’s reasonable to expect. I spent a long time with a veteran of the flats down there to get a handle on what type of casting and presentations I should practice here (water loading, double hauling, quick draws and accuracy!) I’m checking into my existing gear to make sure I have everything I’ll need or be able to beg, borrow or steal anything in time.
I checked the cancellation policy for the Outfitter in case I miss a plane or a storm moves in;
I made sure the accommodations are ok (well, they are actually excellent). Note to self: there is only rum and wine available there, so a mental note to myself to bring whiskey if desired)
This same list is good for any fishing destination. If you are planning your trip with an experienced Guide, don’t worry, they have heard all manner of question. Only about once in a decade do I get that really off the wall question. (like, “If my wife is fishing the day with us, what will my Girlfriend do”??!!)
What kind of fishing are you looking for? I know the Outfitter there uses small skiffs and they fish only the flats and lagoons. For your trip, do you prefer wading, drifting calmly or furiously bombing the banks?
How good is your Guide? Sure, a Guide has to start some day, but do you really want to be his or her very first solo on your dream fishing vacation?
What gear to use? You can be under gunned in the wind or with big flies. Also, being over gunned kind of takes away the fun. We’re bringing rods 6wt to 10 wt, mostly 8, 9 and 10 in nine and ten ft.
What is the cancellation policy for your trip? What will happen if the conditions just make fishing impossible?
What are all the costs? Guide fees, rod fees, licenses, lodging, transport, visas, and meals; get it in writing so there are no misunderstandings.
Tipping: Many Guides are salaried employees working for a shop or a booking agent. Ask straight up what if any tips are normal or in some weird cases, expected.
What color lenses work best for the area for fishing glasses?
Ask your Guide or Agent for a check list. They have seen everything a client can forget, so they often have SOP lists for visitors. (One thing my clients and friends are always forgetting is a compact and waterproof! headlamp)
Pack all your bags and see how much it weighs and where everything goes. My carry-on doubles as my kit bag and it is also designed to be a boat bag. All my rods fit into my gear bag so I don’t have to check and rod case and pay extra.
Boris and Coki on the prowl
By asking some real question, doing some soul searching and giving yourself an honest evaluation of your capabilities, a good Guide service can help you plan an outing where everyone comes through with a memorable experience.
It’s been a while since I was on the “Sport” end of the boat. I hope I don’t let down the Guide ;-)
I’m getting pretty stoked … and the trip is still TEN MONTHS off! We’ll keep you all posted on preparations for this adventure.
Chris Chin
Proulxville, Quebec.
All photos: Pierre Manseau 2009