The 2008 Election
By Chris Chin
All across North America, we're asking questions and setting
up strategy. Our decisions may have an impact on how things
get gone for the next long while. For me, personally, I need
more information this year than in others, 'cause I have to
change some gear here. My present workhorses here just
aren't up to snuff for the situation.
I was in the local fly shop yesterday and sat down with Manon
to get some info on the candidates. She asked me some informed
questions. Has my environment changed? Were my needs still the
same?
I also grilled her on some points to make sure my choice would
be based on "facts" instead of just perceptions or "Branding." You
see, … it is really and truly time for change. I need a new 6wt
10ft rod.
Huh?
Yup, the banners are up and our delegates have all descended
onto the convention floor. The Denver Convention is on. The
Flyfishing Retailer World Expo that is.
Luckily, the shop owner was just transiting between flights on his
way to Denver so he called in. The order went out right quick and
he'll start shopping around for me during the week. There are some
changes in the wind and Paul should be able to get the skinny on the
newest rods for me.
Now, you all may think that this is a bit extreme for simply
choosing a new fly rod. For me it isn't, and for the local fly
shop here, it's just plain old fashioned customer service.
Choosing a rod takes into account many considerations. In
this case, it will be for a specific application. I need a 6wt rod
(a light weight for my home waters). It'll be for medium sized
dries (#6 down to #16). I'll be using it on bigger pools and runs
and I'll be using it to mend and roll cast. My casting style takes
up a lot of consideration too, so we're looking for "rapid" rods.
If you're looking for a new rod this year (or perhaps a first rod),
take your time. If possible, spend some time at a local shop. The
staff will (should) be pleased to set you in the right direction. Take
care to look at you budget and real needs (today and in the future).
Sometimes the front runners put on a good show, but there can be
some real treasures in the wings; so ask about options. 'Fur instance,
one rod manufacturer was recently bought by another and their
warranty service has improved immensely.
Oh,…as for the "other" decisions to make this Fall, …You have
the ability to vote! Get out and Vote! ~ Christopher Chin, Three Rivers Quebec.
About Chris:
Chris Chin is originally from Kamloops,
British Columbia. He has been fly fishing
on and off ever since he was 10 years old.
Chris became serious about the sport within
the last 10 years.
"I'm a forest engineer by day and part time
guide on the Ste-Marguerite River here in
central Quebec. I've been fishing this river
for about 10 years now and started guiding
about 5 years ago when the local guide's
association sort of stopped functioning."
Chris guides mostly for sea run brook trout
and about 30% of the time for Atlantic Salmon.
"I often don't even charge service fees, as
I'm more interested in promoting the river
than making cash. I like to get new comers
to realize that salmon fishing is REALLY for
anyone who cares to try it. Tradition around
here makes some of the old clan see Salmon
fishing as a sport for the rich. Today our
shore lunches are less on the cucumber sandwich
side and more toward chicken pot pie and Jack
Daniel's."
Chris is 44 years old as of this writing. He
is of Chinese origin although his parents were
born and raised in Jamaica.
To learn more about the Ste-Marguerite River,
visit Christopher's
website. You can email Chis at: Flyfishing.christopher@gmail.com.
Our Man In Canada Archives
|
