Thinking of Hiring a Fishing Guide?

 

Happy New Year to you! What are you thinking about that you would like to work on or improve for this new year? Is it catching more fish, improve on your casting, catch more big fish, break bad habits, etc.? I wanted to share from my friend, Mike Kreeger's run down of "Thinking of Hiring a Fishing Guide". Mike has been a good friend to me and a part of my fly fishing journey through the years. He a fishing specialist at JAX located at 900 S. Highway 287, Lafayette, CO 80026.

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There are certainly lots of things to think about and consider in hiring a fishing guide:

— Do lots of homework! Most fly shops offer guide services. Compare prices as they vary from season to season. Purchase your license beforehand. (BTW we sell lots of those!)

— Know what kind of guide you’d prefer. Are they funny and easy to talk to or stiff as a board but super smart!!? Research the guide, look at reviews and previous customer comments then decide if it’s a good fit. Comments give you a heads up and guide you to the best fit for you and/or your group. How much experience does each guide have? Do they know the river/lake that you want to fish? Do they have a “teaching spirit?” Lots to think about as you make your decision!

— Once you’ve chosen a guide, communicate early on what your expectations are. Do you want to catch a LOT of fish, one or two HUGE ones, or do you want to work to improve/learn a technique like Euro-nymphing or fishing streamers. They can also help you improve your casting if you ask.

— Where do you want to go? Is it a good season for catching or should you change destinations or time of year? Are you targeting a particular species of fish?

— How many will be in your party? Sometimes that narrows WHERE you can go i.e. some stream sections cannot handle 10+ people fishing it. Your guide will be able to suggest destinations that can accommodate a multitude of fishing folks. Rely on their experience.

— When you hire a guide, know that it is going to be expensive! That’s just how it is. It’s a day out of their life. You’re tapping into their expertise. They know the hot spots, the hot flies and the lunch that you’ll be enjoying if you book a full day. Your skills will also improve!

— Full or Half Day? The full day is the better deal, but it can be a GRIND! If you decide on the full day, is lunch provided or do you need to bring your own? If lunch is provided, it may be wise to find out in advance what is provided, making sure that it doesn’t collide with any dietary restrictions or allergies of your crew!

— Bring $$ for a tip. A guide makes on average (nationally) $20 per hour! The shop gets most of the booking fee because they have to pay rent, electricity, licenses, insurance, provide waders, wading boots, float systems, rods, flies and all of that boring stuff. The guide is very similar to your favorite restaurant’s waitstaff. Servers make $14.81 per hour. It’s not really a living wage so your tip keeps them doing this job that they LOVE. I am a GREAT tipper and $100 for a good day on the water is my average. If he/she gets me on a LOT of quality fish, it may be significantly higher. If you plan on NOT TIPPING a guide, you should sell ALL of your fishing gear and take up knitting!

— Do what the guide suggests! Be teachable. Don’t argue! (Leave your ego at home!) They’re doing what you hired them to do! If they can get you on lots of fish, you’ll be inclined to leave a better tip so they’re motivated to HELP YOU catch, catch, catch!

— Be personable! If you get along with the guide, they’re more likely to work harder to get you on the fish. You make the difference!

— Feel free to ask lots of questions. Guides are usually talkative individuals and love talking about their passion for fishing. That’s how they bond with their clients. If they have a super-speedy way of tying on flies, ask them to teach you how to do it. I usually ask if they’ll share with me a spot nearby that they like to fish. (Especially if I’m far from home! They know the good spots!)

— Make sure you make good wardrobe choices for the weather forecast. Carry extra layers. Your day will be miserable if you are unprepared for a rogue storm or if the temperature suddenly drops! Also, bring polarized sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen!

—Bring extra water or a “LifeStraw.” Check to see if the guide is bringing water for you. “Better looking AT IT than looking FOR IT!”

GUEST GUIDE OPINION: 

CAT TOY: 720-810-7732. Lives in Arvada and guides for the Blue Quill Angler in the Evergreen area! She can be reached at @cattoyflyfishing (Instagram). Cat has been a JAX customer for many years. She purchased her first fly rod here years ago. After attending a fly tying class with Troy in the Fishing department she proceeded to create her own flies like the “Cat’s Caddis Larva,” (a.k.a. Green Cheeseburger), and the “Burnt French Fry mini-leech!!”

Cat, where is your favorite place to guide? 

I love Cheeseman Canyon as it’s a beautiful and scenic tailwater on the South Platte River. It can be challenging as well as rewarding with wild trophy rainbow, brown, cutthroat trout, and “Cutbows!”

What is your favorite guide fly? 

I will often rig my clients with my flies as an attractor and catch some of the best fish! (3 of her patterns can be found at: Discountflies Online Fly Shop. Cat's Caddis Larva aka Green Cheeseburger, Cat's Burnt French Fry Leech, and Matchstick Midge.

What is your best guiding story? 

The best stories are the successful days on the river with clients surpassing their expectations leaving me smiling on my way home from the river.

Likewise, what is your WORST story? 

My worst story would be a trip with 3 brand new anglers at the “Dream Stream.” The morning was beautiful, but the flows were quite low. Sight fishing was good in the pockets and pools. Two of the three caught fish “early on” but then the wind rushed in (about 40 mph) right after lunch. The changing conditions caused lines getting knotted, tangled and the casting became difficult, as you can imagine! Changes in weather are beyond the control of the guide and fishing outcomes VARY regardless of skill level.

What is your favorite thing about JAX? 

My fly fishing adventure started at JAX. It is a great store where you can get everything you need to launch your own fly fishing story. I especially love the $1.19 flies and it is still one of my favorite stores to shop for fishing necessities and fly tying materials!

 Blue Quill Angler: 303-674-4700

This information leaflet is also available at JAX.

See you on the river!

Events Calendar 2026!

2026 Calendar of Events to look forward to!  An ongoing and update as events move closer.

Join me,

January 9-11th, 2026, International Sportsmen's Expo, Denver. CO

I will be fly tying on January 10th, 2026, Saturday 10 am to 6 pm with a fantastic group of fly tyers!  Stop by, say hello, and let's talk winter fishing.

Colorado Convention Center is 700 14th Street, Denver, CO 80202, located in downtown Denver, with common entrances off 14th Street between Stout and California Street.

Join us at the International Sportsmen's Expo (ISE) for some fly tying and camaraderie with one of the largest outdoor shows for the outdoor enthusiasts with hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and adventure travel, featuring gear, expert seminars, trip planning, and exhibits from lodges, outfitters, conservation groups, and manufacturers across the U.S. offering a chance to see new products, learn a few new skills, and book some adventures.

January 24th, 2026, Saturday, Blue Quill Angler Fly Tying Demo, Evergreen, CO

Join me for a fly tying demonstration of some of my own fishy flies and favorites at the Blue Quill Angler.  The Blue Quill Angler fly shop is 1532 Bergen Parkway, Evergreen, Colorado 80439

Time: 10:00am to 11:30am

January 31st, 2026, St. Vrain Trout Unlimited Fly Tying Expo, Longmont, CO

February 6-8th, 2026, Denver Fly Fishing Show, Gaylord Convention Center, Denver, CO

March 7th, 2026, West Denver Trout Unlimited Fly Tying Clinic, Golden, CO

March 21st, 2026, Anglers All, Women's Showcase, Littleton, CO

March 28th, 2026, Rocky Mountain Flycasters Fly Tying Expo, Loveland, CO

June 27th, 2026, Saturday Troutfest, Coors Field, Denver, CO

Fall and the Leaves

When leaves change colors in the fall, it’s the result of a gorgeous transition of biology, composition, and seasonal timing.  The shimmering and brilliance of fall colors may vary dramatically from year to year.  Variations depends on a mixture of weather, light, and tree health.

In the spring and summer, leaves are green because they are packed with chlorophyll, the pigment plants use to capture sunlight for photosynthesis.  Photosynthesis is the process used by plants to convert light energy into chemical energy.  Chlorophyll is consistently being produced and broken down, as long as the days are warm and extended, the green color dominates.  Chlorophyll conceals other pigments that are present in the leaf including yellow and orange carotenoids.

Deer ignoring the colors.

When autumn approaches, the daylight hours are shorter and chilly temperatures alert the tree the anticipation of winter. The tree begins to dwindle down its food-making system.  As chlorophyll declines, the other pigments in the leaf become prominent.  Chlorophyll breaks down first because it requires energy and sunlight to stay active.  When chlorophyll fades, the yellow and orange carotenoid pigments that exists in the leaf become distinguishable.

In some trees such as dogwoods and maples, the sugar in leaves become trapped.  These sugars react to light and form anthocyanins, which produce brilliant, fire reds, pink, and purple hues.  The potency of red colors rely on the temperatures and sunlight.  Sunny days and cooler evenings but not freezing produces the radiant reds.

Fall at the creek's edge.

As autumn progresses, a separation layer develops at the base of the leaf stem cutting off water and nutrients.  The leaf dries, falls to the ground, and changes to brown due to tannins.  The tree loosing its leaves to help conserve energy through the winter.  Fall colors really are trees slowly shutting down, unveiling the hidden pigments, and preparing for dormacy.  To survive winter, trees enter a dormant state, dropping leaves to conserve water and energy, converting starches to sugars for protection against freezing temperatures, and fortifying their bark for insulation.

Red and oranges hues of the aspens in the mountains

As temperatures decline during morning and evening periods, fish migrate to deeper pools and runs where insect activity decreases. The eggs of mayflies and stoneflies lie dorminate in the egg stage.  Winter is coming.  See you on the river.

Eggs of mayflies and stoneflies lie dormant.

 

Cat's Caddis Larva, aka Green Cheeseburger

Endorsement for the “Cheeseburger” Caddis Larvae, by Cat Toy

As someone who’s been fly fishing Colorado’s waters for over 50 years, I’ve seen a lot of patterns come and go—but the Cheeseburger caddis larvae from Cat Toy is in a league of its own. This fly is flat-out the best I’ve ever used. It has that rare combination of innovation and irresistible effectiveness. I love fishing it—but more importantly, the fish love it even more. Whether you’re on a pressured tailwater or a backcountry creek, the Cheeseburger gets results.

George Pollack

Fly Fishing Colorado for 50+ Years

The Green Cheeseburger.

The caddis larva is the immature stage of an aquatic insect in the order Trichoptera.   The larval stage is the longest, lasting months to over a year, depending on species.  Larvae are worm-like, with a hardened head capsule and strong mandibles.  The caddis larva has a soft-bodied, usually olive-green, cream, caddis green, and tan.  They have a dark head capsule with strong mandibles and six legs near the front.

They are found in our rivers, creeks, streams, and lakes, especially in clean, oxygen-rich waters.

Cat's Caddis Larva.

This deadly effective caddis larvae is a food source year-round to trout especially in the spring and summer months when larvae are more active.  Cast into the riffles, runs, and pocket water, where natural caddis larvae are most abundant.  Fish it down near the bottom, dead drift to imitate a natural tumbling larva.

Buttery brownie fooled by an olive Green Cheeseburger.

Thank you, George, as I wanted to share his wonderful endorsement of gratitude for my Cat's Caddis Larva available at Discount Flies!  Or, send me an email at cattoy.flyfish@gmail.com for ordering and tied from me personally!  $3 each, or purchase a dozen for $36.  I tie them on Togens 3x Heavy Scud hook to bring in those powerful, big fish.  Colors available are olive, caddis green, sand, and chartreuse.

Fishing in the creeks with great success!

See you on the river!

The Salmon Fly

Every spring across the trout-laden rivers of the American West, something spectacular happens. As runoff begins to subside and the days stretch longer, an enormous insect emerges from the cobbled riverbeds.  The Salmonfly—Pteronarcys californica, a massive, prehistoric-looking stonefly that ignites the water with life and draws trout to the surface with a reckless hunger.

The Salmonfly is a species of giant stonefly in the order Plecoptera. They grow up to 3 inches long, being one of the largest aquatic insects in North America. Adults are typically dark brown to black with vivid orange or rust-colored markings on the underside.

Pteronarcys californica

 These insects are indicators of pristine river systems, and they require cold, clean, well-oxygenated water to survive. You can find them in rivers like the Colorado, Henry's Fork, Deschutes, Madison, and the Gunnison to name a few.

The Salmonfly’s has a long-life cycle. The nymph stage can last up to 3 to 4 years, the nymph lives beneath the surface, crawling among stones and river bottom debris. They feed on organic matter and slowly mature. As water temperatures climb in late spring, nymphs begin migrating toward the riverbanks in preparation for emergence. During this time, trout will feast on these vulnerable nymphs. At night or early morning, nymphs will crawl out of the water onto rocks, logs, or grasses and split their exoskeletons to become winged adults.

The Salmonfly are massive in size.

Adult Salmonflies have a short terrestrial life of just a week or two. They fly awkwardly, mate, and females return to the river to drop eggs, slapping the water surface and are often easy targets for trout.

For fly fishermen, the Salmonfly hatch is of legend. It is an incredible time of the most explosive dry fly fishing of the year. Witnessing a big trout suddenly rise with abandon and crashing through the water surface to devour these Salmonflies is extraordinary! Timing is everything. The hatch typically runs from mid-May to early July, depending on location, altitude, and weather. Rivers warm from the bottom up, so anglers often follow the hatch upstream over days or weeks.

Dead drifts close to banks, under overhangs, or near logs often draw violent takes from trout lurking for an easy, high-protein snack. If you haven’t experienced this unbelievable kind of dry fly fishing, put it on your fishing agenda to seek and fish it!  See you on the river!

A New Fishing Season!

Manhattan Midge.

Spring is well underway, but the fly tying and prep is always ongoing.  This blog is of fly tying and fly patterns I have been tying for myself, guide trips, and fellow anglers wanting these flies to fish.  I will share some of the many fly ties and some highlights of when and how to fish these patterns.  Some are of my signature designed fly patterns as well as many featured known tiers and their fly patterns. I will keep adding to this blog with fly patterns.  Enjoy and share your thoughts. 

Simple Quill Midge.

The Simple Quill Midge. Cruise by once, eat on the return!  This fly pattern seems to turn heads under some of the harder fishing conditions, but often very productive fished in the springtime.

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Hook:  Togens 3x heavy scud size 20

Thread:  Semperfli Nano Silk 12/0 black

Body: Hand Stripped Quill natural

Wing case: Fluoro filaments clear

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors: Anadromous Fly Company Arrow point straight 4” orange

Manhattan Midge in purple.

Forrest Dorsey’s Manhattan Midge, a true pleaser in the tailwaters as the days are warming up.  There is an absolute mind-boggling phenomenon with the draw of purple to trout.  It seems when the trout want purple, that is all you fish!  This beautiful fly pattern stirs lots of trout particularly in the spring and summer time fishing.

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Hook: Togens 3x heavy scud hook size 20

Bead: Glass small

Thread: UNI-Thread 8/0 purple

Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire x-small copper

Wing: Fluoro Filaments clear

Thorax: Peacock herl

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor 4” Titanium Rainbow

Rojo Midge.

Another favorite midge pupa, Greg Garcia’s, Rojo Midge. Amazing fly pattern that is alluring to the trout with the red glass bead, gill tuft, and the contrast of red and copper ribbing.  A favorite in the S. Platte River particularly in Deckers and Cheesman Canyon.

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Hook:  Togens Curved Nymph 2x size 18

Thread: UNI-Thread 8/0 Mahogony

Bead: Small red glass bead

Gill: Fluoro Filaments clear

Ribbing: Ultra wire small copper

Collar: Peacock herl

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor 4” Titanium rainbow

Pale Ale Midge.

One of my favorite winter/spring larvae, Juan Ramirez's Pale Ale Midge.  These simple larvae have won the trout on some of the colder winter days as well as moving into springtime.  

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Hook:  Togens Curved nymph 2x barbless, size 18

Thread: UTI-Thread 8/0 Lt. Cahill

Ribbing: Slim Rib, clear

Back: BIC permanent marker, Honey brown

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Arrow point curved 4” chartreuse green

Burnt French Fry Mini Leech.

This Burnt French Fry mini leech is absolute magic when the trout are keying in on leeches or larger meals in the rivers, creeks, and lakes.  I always say, if you haven't fished a leech, you really should!  Leeches exist in lots of rivers, lakes, streams, and creeks.  They are nocturnal and best fished early morning, sunset, or overcast days, as well as having success during the day.  Leeches are quite prevalent usually in the spring, summer, and fall times of the year.  

Hook: Togens Heavy 3X Scud hook sizes 14, 16, 18, and 20

Thread:  UNI-Thread 8/0 black

Segmentation/flash:  Flashabou iridescent pearl extra limp

Abdomen: Pine Squirrel crawdad orange

Head: Synthetic Peacock Herl

UV: Solarez Bone Dry

Matchstick Midge.

The Matchstick Midge is one of my designed midges I duplicated fishing the S. Platte River here in Colorado.  A year-round midge often fished deep in the water column.  A simple midge that fishes well in the tailwaters.  I could not believe how many fish I caught in the San Juan River in New Mexico on this midge!

Hook:  Togens 3X Scud Heavy hook

Body:  UNI-Thread 8/0 Tan

Segmentation: UTC Wire hot orange small

Head:  UNI-Thread 8/0 Mahogany

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Paisy Midge.

I call it, the Paisy Midge. A chironomid in size 20 on Togens 3x Scud hook, tied with Semperfli Nano Silk 30D 18/0 olive thread, UTC Ultra silver wire small, head with UTC waxed thread 12/0 brown.  Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor titanium rainbow scissors for the precision cut.  UV Resin: Solarez Bone Dry clear.  This another favorite midge that fishes well in the spring, summer and fall.

Hook:  Togens 3X Heavy Scud hook size 20

Thread: Nano Silk waxed 18/0 olive

Ribbing:  UTC Ultra Wire small silver

Head: Waxed 12/0 brown

UV Solarez Bone Dry

Mercury Blood Midge in red and black.

The Mercury Blood Midge is a favorite winter midge to fish. It mimics a blood worm larva that are prevalent in our rivers.  One of Pat Dorsey's magnificent fly patterns.  A favorite spring and summer pattern trout cannot resist.  A very easy tie and crazy effective!

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Hook:  Curved nymph 2x size 18

Bead: Clear silver lined glass small

Thread: Uni-thread 8/0 red

Rib: Ultra wire gold, small

Thorax: peacock herl

Scissors:  Arrow point 4” straight orange

The Orange Scud.

I have been studying scuds for some time. Scuds are a staple food for the trout in the tailwaters. When scuds die at the end of their lifecycle, they turn bright orange in color. This makes for a very easy meal for the trout high in protein.  Successfully fished in the summer and fall months, when the trout are focused on the scuds, hang on!!

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Hook:  3X heavy scud hook size 16

Thread: UNI-thread 8/0 fluoro orange

Head/tail: Antron yarn, burnt orange

Body: Ice dub orange

Rib: gold wire extra small

Back: Scud back 1/8” clear

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor 4” titanium rainbow

Paisy pupa midge (Photo coming soon)

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Hook:  3x scud heavy, size 20

Thread:  Nano Silk 18/0, olive

Ribbing: UTC Ultra wire small, silver

Gils: J Fair Ultra fine flash, pearlescent

Head: Semperfli waxed 12/0, brown

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissor:  Anadromous Fly Company Titanium coated spring 4.5” curved

Miracle Midge.

It’s a Miracle Midge that does the trick! Stay warm!  One of my go to midge patterns in the wintertime when fishing is tough, a size 22 or 24 Miracle Midge seems to do the trick!  Also, a favorite in the springtime.

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Hook: Togens 3x scud heavy, size 20

Thread: Uni-Thread 8/0 white

Segmentation: Ultra Wire X-small copper

Head:  Nano Silk 12/0 black

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company TC arrow point curved 3.5” orange

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Bling Midge.

Bling midges are a great midge in the tail waters especially winter. I will often fish it deep as my last trailing midge. My kind of bling.🎣 This simple midge pattern is a fish catcher imitates a midge larva and a winner especially when the trout are keying on midges.

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Hook:  Scud 3X heavy, size 20

Thread: UTC Ultra thread 70 Cream

Gil: Flashabou extra limp

Head:  Nano Silk 18/0

UV:  Bone Dry

Scissors: Razor 4” Titanium rainbow

Black Beauty Midge.

Pat Dorsey's Black Beauty Midge size 24 that can fool a lot of big bucks!  This simple year-round midge pattern has put more fish in my net than any other midge pattern!  One of the easiest midge patterns you must tie and always have some in your box!

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Hook:  Togens Dry Fly size 24

Thread:  Nano silk 30D 18/0 black

Segmentation: Danville fine wire gold

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly CompanyTitanium Coated spring 4.5 straight.

No Mercy Midge.

One of my favorites very effective midge, Phil Iwane's No Mercy Midge. The blend of camel and silver looks like trout champagne.🍾 Happy New Year!  A favorite year-round pattern I often will fish in all of our beloved tail waters.  The CDC tuft movement in the water and the flash of the wire segmentation on the camel is irresistible to the trout!

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Hook:  Togens Scud 3x Heavy, size 20

Thread: Uni-Thread 8/0W, camel

Segmentation: UTC Ultra Wire small, silver

Head:  Nano Silk 30D 18/0, black

Gil: Cul De Canard Tuft, white

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company TC Arrow Point curved 4” chartreuse green

The Anneworm.

Tyler Boroff's Anneworm, red annelid. Red candy for the trout!  When the trout are keying on the red bloodworm, the trout will hit this annelid hard!  

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Hook:  Togens Curved nymph 2x long length size 12

Thread: Glo-Brite 

UV:  Solarez Thin, Hard formula

 Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Titanium Coated Spring Scissors, curved

Foamie Homie Midge.

Tyler Boroff's Foamie Homie, some true trout slayers.

Hook:  Togens Scud 3x heavy hook, size 20

Body thread:  Semperfli Nano silk 18/0 30D brown

Ribbing: Danville’s Fine wire, gold

Flash: Flashabou Magnum pearl

UV:  Solarez Bone dry

Head:  Nano silk 18/0 30D black

Wing: Evazote foam 1/8” white

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor 4” titanium rainbow

Cat's Caddis Larva aka Green Cheeseburger.

Cat’s Caddis Larva with a little Christmas spice

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Hook:  Togens Scud 3x heavy hook size 16

Thread:  Semperfli Nano silk 30D, black

Segmentation: UTC Ultra wire silver small

Body:  EZ Magic dubbing, olive

Head:  Semperfli Straggle Legs black

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry, black

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Razor 5” Titanium blue

The Holo Midge.

Spring is so near! The Holo Midge is a flashy fly pattern an absolute winner in the rivers! In the drift hard to miss, sure to get smashed!

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Hook:  Togens 3x Heavy Scud hook size 20

Bead: Glass small

Thread:  Semperfli Nano Silk black

Body: Holo Tinsel medium pink

Ribbing: UTC Ultra Wire silver small

Wing case: Fluoro filaments clear

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly CompanyTitanium 4” Razor rainbow

Matchstick Emerger.

The Matchstick Emerger, an emerger that has trout saying yes!

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Hook:  Togens Scud 3X heavy size 20

Thread: UNI-Thread 8/0 tan

Segmentation: Ultra Wire small hot orange

Head: UNI-Thread 8/0 mahogany

Wing:  Evazote foam white

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company 4” Tungsten Carbide Razor Titanium Coated

TF Midge.

When winter fishing gets tough, I’ve had great success fishing the TF midge. The quill segmentation along with the fluoro filaments are an amazing attention combo for those picky fish.

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Hook:  Togens 3x heavy scud hook size 20

Thread:  SemperfliNano silk 12/0 black

Body: Hand stripped Quill olive

Wing case: Fluoro Filaments clear

UV:  Solarez Bone Dry

Scissors:  Anadromous Fly Company Titanium coated spring curved

Pink Scud.

Will some trout be my Valentine? Pink scuds, hand tied with love.💕

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Hook:  Togens 3x heavy scud hook size 16

Thread:  Textreme Standard 6/0 fluoro pink

Head/tail: Ice dubbing hot pink

Body dub: Ice dubbing hot pink

Rib: Ultra Wire X small gold

Back: Scud back 1/8” clear

Scissors:  Andromous Fly Company Titanium coated spring curved

(Photo coming soon)

The Smokejumper is midge pupae with a translucent appearance with its silver wire ribbed body. When the pupae emerge, they propel themselves up through the water column using a small bubble of gas to reach the surface from its nymphal state to become a winged adult.

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Hook:  Togens 3x Heavy scud hook size 16

Thread: Uni-Thread 6/0W, olive

Rib: Ultra wire small silver

Wing case: CDC puff, natural

Thorax: Peacock herl

It's a new year of Health, Happiness, and Fly Fishing!

What’s been on your mind as you think about what’s most important in 2025?  Are you focusing on personal goals, relationships, or something else entirely?  I have always been a goal believer to grow, flourish, and create happiness into my life.  Really, none of these desires are anything new, but an ongoing life journey.  Most of my desires for growth are centered around fly fishing truth be told.  How about you?

Having good health enables us to participate and contribute to the fullest of our physical capabilities.  As a serious-minded athlete as a skier and a former competitive motocross racer, I am not naive in getting injured.  When I decided to immerse into my fly fishing endeavors, I presumed fewer encounters of injuries.  To descend freely by the force of gravity, or falling, is an unmistakable injury I have learned no one is exempt from in fly fishing.  Some of our river bottoms are incredibly rock, slippery, and unforgiving.  The natural reaction to falling is often extending our arms and hands, to try to catch oneself, or brace for impact.  

My right nondisplaced scaphoid
wrist waist oblique fracture.

I have encountered a few falls through the years with fishing resulting with broken fingers and even a fractured wrist.  All of which I have recovered and continue to fish and fly tie.  To improve any further falls, weight training particularly legs and core strength along with downhill skiing manifested great equilibrium and stability.  

My right hand with moderate first and third
interphalangeal osteoarthritis from fractures.

For hand grip and finger dexterity strength, for years I use the Grip Master, now the Finger Strengthener - Finger Exerciser for Forearm and Hand Strengthener on Amazon - Hand Grip Workout Equipment for Musician, Rock Climbing and falling Cat in the Hats.

 

Less falls means more days out on the river and being able to tie the best flies for the trout.  Plus, sheer happiness of catching lots of trout in all the lakes, rivers, and creeks.  Stay healthy, happy, strong, and injury free! Happy new year to you!  See you on the rivers!

Happiness and trout!

2025 Calendar of Fly Fishing Events!

A great year it has been with fly tying, guiding, and fishing with friends!  Thank you for joining me in these fly fishing, fly tying, presentation events, and trips on the rivers!  Stay tuned for 2026 calendar of events!  See you on the river!

Project Healing Waters

November 17th, 2025, Tuesday evening

Location:  Lowery American Legion 7465 E. First Avenue, Denver.

Time:  6 pm.

The Autumn at the Vise Fly Tying Fest

November 15th, 2025, Saturday

Sportsman's Warehouse 18420 Cottonwood Drive, Parker, CO

 A fun FREE event 10 am to 3 pm 

Peak Fly Shop

October 25th, 2025, Saturday!  10 am

A FREE event with myself and Tyler Boroff present an

 Informative presentation and fly tying Demonstration of

Fall Fishing

Learn about the fall entomology for the trout for fall fishing at your local waters and around Colorado's rivers.  

Orvis Fly Tying Fanatics Fest 2026

October 18th, 2026, Saturday!

Hosted by Cutthroat Chapter of Trout Unlimited

Please join us on Orvis/CCTU Fly Tying Fanatics Fest on October 18th from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm at 8433 Park Meadows Center, Lone Tree, CO 80124 This FREE event is to support the conservation efforts of the Cutthroat Chapter of Trout Unlimited.  An amazing opportunity to meet great tyers who will share their flies, fly fishing techniques, and their secrets to catching more fish in the net.

There will be a special one-hour break from 12:00pm - 1:00pm for Rim Chung who will be tying his RS-2 for the last time in public. He will share his 50 year journey in fly fishing.

Free food and drinks, raffle tickets can be purchased to win amazing prizes! Look at the poster and see who the tyers are tying at this event! I hope to see you there!!

The River

August 5th, 2025, Tuesday!

Project Healing Waters presenter for August 2025, Cat Toy!

Location:  American Legion LCW #1 5400 East Yale Avenue, Denver, CO

I will be giving a presentation on The River

July 12th, 2025, Saturday!  

Sportsman's Warehouse 18420 Cottonwood Drive, Parker, CO 80138

Pro Fly tyers featured on this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.  Come stop in the store, pick up items for summer fun, camping, fishing, and visit fly tyers who will tie their signature flies.  I will be tying with some great fly tyers in Colorado~Event is FREE!  We hope to see you there!

March 22nd, 2025, Saturday is the West Denver Trout Unlimited Fly Tying Clinic!

Location:  Jefferson County Fairgrounds

15200 W 6th Ave

Golden, CO 80401

(303) 271-6600

Times: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm

It is West Denver Trout Unlimited 46th year, with over 50 local and nationally-known tyers.  Also, you can buy previously owned gear and fly tying materials, and enter our huge bucket raffle.  Never tied a fly? Visit their Tie Your First Fly area and tie one!

Active military personnel and kids 12 and younger are admitted free.

Proceeds support West Denver TU’s conservation and education activities.

Anglers All, me and 4 other great women tiers for a Women's Showcase fly tying event, March 15th, 2025, Saturday!  

Anglers All 5211 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO 80120

Times:  1:00pm to 4pm

I hope to see you there!

The Fly Fishing Show, Denver 2025, February 21, 22, and 23rd the Gaylord Rockies Resort!

The fly fishing show of the year, join me, Dave Allison, Jonathan Artunez, Kevin Arculeo, Nick Benik, Marcus Bevier, Tyler Boroff, Michael Burgess, Jeff Currier, John Demuth, Jude Duran, Daryl Eakins, Joel Evans, Tim Flagler, Dylan Gonzales, Eli Gonzales, Jason Haddix, Travis Hanson, Larry Holt, Phil Iwane, Joe Jackson, Tim Jacobs, Stephen Johnson, Merne Judson, Bill Kirk, Lance Kittel, Chris Krueger, Steven Maldonado, David McElwain, Kim Mutaw, Hans Mylant, Carl Pennington, Juan Ramirez, Jane Retherford, Jeff Rowley, Allen Rupp, Shane Schuster, Steve Schweitzer, Spencer Seim, Robin Spaight, Scott Stisser, Rick Takahashi, Son Tao, Matt Thornton, Cat Toy, Todd Turner, Frank Whispell, Jason Yi, and Tom Ziegler.

• The largest exhibit floor in the history of the Denver Fly Fishing Show, yet again!

• New 2025 products from manufacturers.

• Programs and learning opportunities for youngsters and families.

• Women’s Fly Fishing Showcase focused on the

woman angler.

• Casting demos and instruction with Christopher Rownes, Gary Borger, Landon Mayer, Jeff Currier, Mac Brown and more!

• Fly tying with Phil Rowley, Ed Engle, Tim Flagler, Pat Dorsey, Tim

Cammisa and more!

• Classes with the Experts where you can get one-on-one time with the Pros.

• The must-see International Fly Fishing Film Festival on Friday at 6:30

featuring award-winning fly-fishing films.

• The most extensive list of professional speakers across the globe.

• Lodges, resorts, exotic vacation destinations offering the best fly fishing

trips on the planet.

• Live, on site Podcasting

• Live and art demonstrations

• Live bamboo rod building demonstrations

• New rods, reels, lines, accessories, clothing, waders, boots, books, DVDs and

anything else you may want to purchase, plus our exclusive author’s booth.

• Conservation organizations and opportunities to volunteer for the sport

you cherish.

Please join this amazing fly fishing event!  I hope to see you there! 

The St. Vrain Angler Trout Unlimited Fly Tying Expo 2025!

WHEN | February 8, 2025, Saturday

WHERE | American Legion Post 32 Longmont, Colorado

ADMISSION | $20 - See Event registration page

Doors open | 12:30pm

Food and beverage available for purchase at venue

The St. Vrain Angler Trout Unlimited and Laughing Grizzly Fly Shop co-host an annual Fly Tying Expo that features expert tyers from Northern Colorado and throughout the state. This Expo offers the opportunity for one-on-one interaction with the tyers where attendees can chat and learn their patterns, tips, and pointers. With more than 30 tyers demonstrating an astounding variety of flies, attending the Expo is a crash course in upping your tying skills.

The Fly Tying Expo is a fundraiser to support the Chapter’s work and outreach. Flies tied at the event are donated by the tyers for bucket draws. The event also features a silent auction including trips and fishing related items. Fundraising proceeds go to:

1.  Youth programming that introduces kids to fly fishing and healthy watersheds; 

2.  St. Vrain Creek habitat improvement and restoration; and

3.  Educating our community on the value of healthy streams and trout habitat.

2025 Tyer lineup 

Jonathan Antunez | Scott Drake | Rod Dufour

Phil Cavendor | Chuck Esch | Jason Haddix

Kevan Davidson | Stephen Johnson | John YI

Shannah Fedus | John Majerus | Steve Maldonado

Dennis Martin | Mark Mcmillian | Teryll Monroe

Rich pilatzke | Jane Retherford | Micheal ringus

Dick shinton | Marty staab | rick takahashi

anh thai | cat toy | Susan underwood

James Ushiyama | Frank whispell | janine whispell

lydia wickizer | fran Blayney | Phil Iwane 

stephanie hazelton

January 18th, 2025, Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm!

Angler's Covey, Womens Fly Tying Showcase

Please join me for this very special event featuring a day of fly tying by the ladies!  Come see Anh Thai, Cat Toy, Rachel Leinweber, Amy Grigg, and Lydia Wickizer tie their favorite fly patterns.

This is a great opportunity for fly tyers of all abilities to ask questions, learn, and be a part of the fly tying community!  There will be some giveaways throughout the day.

Don’t miss this chance to see some of most creative and awesome women fly tyers!

Anglers Covey:

295 S 21st St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

We hope to see you there!

The International Sportsmen's Expo is happening January 9th through January 12, 2025

Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday!

The Denver Colorado Convention Center

700 14th Street

Denver, CO 80202

Phone: (303) 228-8000

Email: info@denverconvention.com

Public Show Hours:

Thursday Noon to 7:00pm

Friday Noon to 7:00pm

Saturday 10:00am to 7:00pm

Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm

2025 Fly-Tying Video Theater Schedules 

Thursday, January 9th, 2025 12:00-3:30pm: 

Steve Schweitzer - Dick Shinton - Susan Underwood – Richard Pilatzke- Terra Groah - Todd Birchby – John Yi - Joe Brenton - Jane Retherford - Mary Manka 

3:30-7:00pm: Steve Schweitzer - Ralph Rhoades - Hans Mylant - John Vevurka – Janine Whispell – Terra Groah - Eric Pettine - Todd Birchby – John Yi – Joe Brenton - Jane Retherford - Mary Manka 

Video Tyers: Frank Whispell (12:30); Mark McMillan (2); Kirk Bien (3:30); Chris Steinbeck (5)

Friday, January 10th, 2025 12:00-3:30pm: Daryl Eakins - Dennis Martin - Dick Shinton - Susan Underwood - Frank Whispell - Janine Whispell - Ben Baxter - Cat Toy - Bret Oeltjenbruns – Steve Schweitzer - Tim Jacobs - Elkan Normadin 

3:30-7:00pm: Garrison Doctor - Scott Stisser - Steve Maldonado - Kevan Davidson - Barbara Luneau - Mark Rayman - Bill Kirk – Cat Toy - Joel Evans – Eric Pettine - Tim Jacobs - Renea Pedersen 

Video Tyers: Garrison Doctor (12:30); Steve Maldonado (2); Pat Dorsey (3:30); Steve Schweitzer (5) 

Saturday, January 11th, 2025 10:00am-2:00pm: 

Rick Takahashi - Chris Krueger - Chuck Esch - Kevan Davidson – Steve Rogers - Steve Schweitzer - Stephanie Hazelton - Joel Evans – Shannah Fedus – Frank Whispell - Cat Toy - Anh Thai

Sunday, January 12th, 2025 10:00-1:00pm: 

Daryl Eakins - John Vevurka - Chuck Esch - Phil Iwane - Bret Oeltjenbruns - Stephanie Hazelton - Antonio Rodrigues - Lydia Wickizer - James Ushiyama - Jon Easdon – Mark McMillan - Loren Mcglone 

1:00-4:00pm: Daryl Eakins – Joel Evans - Renea Pedersen – Stephen Johnson - Barbara Luneau - Mark Rayman - Joe Brenton - Eric Pettine - Fran Blayney - Natasha Blayney - Jonathan Antunez – Richard Pilatzke 

Video Tyers: Daryl Eakins (10:30); Phil Iwane (12); Loren Mcglone (1:30), Antonio Rodriguez (3)

We hope to see you there!