Gear Review: Fishpond Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On

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Gear Review: Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On
By Jordan Taylor

Why the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On is My New Favorite Travel Companion:
As a fly fisherman and self-proclaimed gear junkie, I’m always on the hunt for tools, gadgets, and equipment that will make my fly fishing easier, more enjoyable, and my trips smoother. There’s something about being prepared for anything that brings me peace of mind – especially when it comes to my gear. If there’s a way to avoid relying on others or worse, being without something I need, I’ll make sure I have it. That’s why I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with carry-on bags. Over the years, I’ve never quite found “the one.” I’ve tried countless bags, but I can’t even remember the last time I used the same luggage for a trip. There always seems to be someone willing to lend me a bag, and honestly, I never thought of my carry-on as an essential piece of gear. Maybe it’s because I’ve had so many duds in the past… But that all changed when I decided to upgrade to the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On from Fishpond.

The Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On: Game Changer:
When I packed for my recent trip to Baja, Mexico, I put the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On to the test. The components and features of this bag surpass any roller duffels currently on the market. The extendable handle is incredibly sturdy and shows no signs of weakness, unlike other bags I’ve used in the past. Many of us have experienced the frustration of a bumpy or loose wheel on a good bag, often leading us to drag it around or eventually toss it out and buy a new one. The wheels on the Stormshadow Rollers are mounted on a fully replaceable axle with off-road wheels featuring ball bearings, ensuring smooth rolling on any surface, no matter the terrain. I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to be so impressed. But after packing it, rolling it through airports, and seeing how seamlessly it handled all my gear, I knew this bag was a keeper.

The Stormshadow features two main compartments that make it so easy to stay organized. The bottom features a solid, reinforced shell to protect fragile items when the flight attendants are stowing additional bags and slamming down the overhead bins during those “completely full flights” we’re all familiar with. Keep this in mind while packing—place your clothes and softer items in the top section to allow for compression. Whether it’s clothes, toiletries, or extra gear, I was able to neatly separate everything without feeling cramped. It also has a few easily accessible compartments on the outside for your passport, boarding passes, or other small items you will repetitively need without opening your whole bag. This is a much more spacious bag than one can expect from its appearance. The neoprene edges of the bag are a clever touch, allowing me to stretch the bag’s capacity just enough to fit more than I expected – without forcing things in. This is in part due to the incredibly strong YKK Zippers that seal up all of the great compartments it has to offer. The ergonomics of this bag are designed with convenience in mind, featuring compartments and attachment points exactly where you need them. In addition to the previously mentioned features, the bag includes four connection points for Fishpond’s Lariat Gear Straps, allowing you to easily store rod tubes or secure any other gear you want to attach externally.

A Bag That’s Built to Last:
I’ve been a fan of Fishpond gear for years, and for good reason. Over the course of three years guiding salmon and steelhead at Hoodoo Lodge on the Sapsuk and Sandy Rivers in Alaska, I spent thousands of hours in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. One thing I quickly learned is that the only consistency in overnight flyout trips along the banks of the Bering Sea is the inconsistency. Every trip was different, but one thing remained constant: the performance of my gear. Having an extra set of dry clothes on hand can be a game changer when the inevitable happens.

Having already relied on Fishpond’s Thunderhead Sling Pack and Thunderhead Backpack for over six years, I knew I could trust the Stormshadow bag to keep up with my adventures. These bags have been through a lot. Whether I’m wading in waist high water or navigating tough terrain, the Thunderhead lineup’s submersible design has allowed me to push further into the water without worrying about my gear getting soaked. There’s no going back once you realize how liberating it is to not have to think about wet gear. Seriously, I once took a literal dive into the river while crossing a rocky stream – and luckily my waterproof sling pack didn’t bail on me! Not only did they survive, but they saved my dignity too (if you don’t count the minor, ungraceful flailing involved).

Why I Recommend the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On:
Our first sample of the bag came to the shop right before my trip, and I was instantly sold. I bought one right away, and after using this bag on my travels, I can honestly say the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On is worth every penny. If you’re someone who’s tired of dealing with unreliable luggage that doesn’t stand up to the wear and tear of frequent trips, this is the bag you need. Its durability, thoughtful design, and ability to hold everything without a struggle make it my top choice for any Adventure.

If you’re a fisherman like me—or just someone who enjoys traveling with peace of mind—you’ll appreciate the quality and versatility of Fishpond’s gear. Whether you’re hitting the river or heading to the airport, the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On makes travel more seamless and stress-free.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at carry-on luggage the same way again. And if you ever find yourself unintentionally taking a swim (like I’ve done too many times), rest easy knowing your gear won’t just survive the adventure—it’ll save you from a soggy disaster.

Gear Review: Skwala Thermo 350 Hoody

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Merino Wool is a game changer!

One of my best memories of Christmas was back when I was 13 and my mum and dad gave me a drab green, 100% wool British military surplus Wooly Pully sweater. It was far and away my favorite insulating layer in a duck blind or on the water fishing. And it kept me warm to the bone, even when wet. It was made out of incredibly scratchy wool and made my face break out, but it was better than freezing my arse off. Since then, I have been a strong believer in wool as a thermal layer, especially after I tried Merino Wool for the first time – it was a game changer for me.

Fast forward 40-plus years and I was headed to Kodiak Island, Alaska, during mid-October to check out a new steelhead fishery. I needed to be prepared for some cold, wet, nasty weather, so I immediately reached out to Kevin and Rich at Skwala to see if I could give their Thermo 350 Hoody a try. Thanks brothers!

Angler wearing a Skwala Thermo 350 Hoody while casting First off, the Thermo 350 Hoody is not your typical “hoody”. This is a purposely designed and constructed thermal garment, built for fly fishers. It’s Skwala’s heaviest base layer, made of 95% hand-selected New Zealand Merino Wool. It features a full-cover hood with extra high collar to keep the bitter cold at bay and protect your ears from windchill. The mid-chest-length zipper allows you to vent when hiking but also zippers up to fully cover your chin and lock in your body heat.

The fully integrated thumb holes in the sleeves are amazingly designed, you don’t even know they are there until putting it on – surprise! Pull on the hoody and insert your arms in the sleeves, and your thumbs effortlessly find the thumb holes which allows the cuff to seamlessly cover the backs of your hands without bunching. And it’s just as easy to get your thumbs out of the holes.

The furry, fleeced wool interior is a super insulator and not scratchy at all (love that)! The durable knit face exterior is robust and resists pilling.

And it has an outside pocket on the breast made out of stretch Lycra® with a zipper that I can store my readers in – I love pockets…

I really like this piece of technical clothing and will be sure to put it through its paces on my three week, late season trip to Chile, Patagonia, this year.

I am NOT a gear hound. The longer I fish, the less gear I own, bring with me, and wear. Every piece of my personal kit has a purpose, and each piece of gear must serve more than one purpose. The Thermo 350 Hoody will be an integral part of my gear for cool or cold weather fishing adventures, and I feel it might be just right for you on your next cold weather trip.

Give me a shout (800) 669-3474, or shoot me an email pat@theflyshop.com if you want to hear more about this base layer or learn about my next favorite fly fishing destination I am headed to.

Winston Bamboo – The History

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Winston Bamboo
The History of Winston and Bamboo
by Terry Jepsen

I’ve worked at The Fly Shop®, or at least been a part of it since I was 14 years old…I’m 51 now. When I started, the majority of fly rods were made of fiberglass. Graphite fly rods, which were just coming out, were only talked about and were way out of my price range. My first rod was a J. Kennedy Fisher 9’0” 6/7 weight, fiberglass, 2-piece fly rod. Those days have long since changed, and we now see a proliferation of 4-piece, high-modulus graphite rods. I didn’t even know what came before fiberglass until I was much older. At some point I heard people talking about bamboo rods, a concept completely foreign to my young mind. When I thought of bamboo rods I thought of National Geographic and seeing villagers using plain bamboo with a line tied onto the end. This couldn’t possibly be what people were talking about.

I started asking questions of those who I thought might know more about bamboo rods. I was fortunate to have so many knowledgeable anglers around me, people such as Mike Michalak and Mike Mercer. These fly fishing hall of fame inductees were my mentors in the sport and I’m not sure I could’ve had better. I soon learned that bamboo had a rather famous legacy in fly fishing, and that we worked with two manufacturers that had strong bamboo programs, Winston and Scott fly rods (both of whom were originally California based companies). Today we’re here to talk about Winston and their history.

The Winston History of Winston Bamboo
Winston started making rods in 1929 in San Francisco, California. The owners, Robert Winther and Lew Stoner, purchased the Keene Boat Rod Company and formed Winther-Stoner Manufacturing, later renamed R.L. Winston Rod Company. During this time they were mostly making solid boat rods.

Leetle Fellers bamboo rod — Leetle Feller

In 1933 Robert sold his shares of Winston Rod Company to Red Loskot. Red, a member of the Golden Gate Casting Club, came to the shop as an employee in 1933 after purchasing Winther’s side of the company. The next year Lew Stoner developed the ground-breaking hollow-fluted fly rod. This invention would bring the attention of tournament casters as well as fellow anglers. The hollow flute allowed for the creation of a lighter and more powerful rod. In 1936, Primo Livenais broke the world record with a 623-foot cast made with a Winston surf rod. Two years later Marvin Hedge broke the record by 36 feet while also using a Winston rod. During this time Stoner also introduced a line of light trout rods referred to as the “Leetle Fellers” by angling author Peter Shwab. Winston soon became a name known well for its amazing fishing rods.

Casting a long bamboo rod at a casting pond After returning from the World War II Air Corps in 1945, Doug Merrick came to Winston looking to buy a rod. Instead he found a job and began working at the company. A few years later, in 1953, Doug purchased Red’s share of the company. Lew would begin experimenting with different materials for rod building in the early 50’s, bringing in a line of fiberglass rods. In 1957 Doug became the sole owner of Winston after Lew Stoner suddenly passed away. Doug kept the tradition of innovation and craftsmanship alive at Winston. He received a medal for “Outstanding work and knowledge pertaining to split bamboo rods”, presented to him in 1967 by Charles Ritz, a renowned angler and president of the International Fario Club in Paris.

In 1973 a young guide and angler named Tom Morgan came to San Francisco from the town of Ennis, Montana, and purchased part of the company. A year later Glenn Brackett joined the company. In 1976 the two partnered and purchased the company from Doug, who retired. Tom and Glenn decided to move the company to its current home in Twin Bridges, Montana, to be near the world-class rivers located nearby. The little shop based in an even smaller part of the world was making larger and larger impacts on the fishing industry. Tom was a master craftsman of both bamboo and graphite rods, designing some of the legendary classic graphite rods Winston is well known for, such as the Tom Morgan Favorite. His ethics on rod building have made a truly lasting impact on the standards used to this day.

Splitting bamboo and the old patent

In 1991, the year I graduated from high school, David Ondaajte purchased the company from Tom and Glenn and helped create the new facility housing graphite production in 1995. The original building became the Winston bamboo shop. In the early 2000’s Bob and Annette Mclean began to take up the mantle of bamboo rod building. Bob is an avid angler and a master craftsman in his woodshop. He learned much from his mentor Tom Morgan in the art of rod building. Annette was the rod designer and vice president of operations for Winston for many years. Creating some of the most well known Winston rods, such as the B3X, Air, and Pure series of rods. The main focus of beauty and performance remains a top priority. Even through all the changes of the last 95 years.

The original bamboo building that caught on fire in 2017

Sadly in 2017 the old building burned down. Along with many pieces of Winston’s history. Later the next year Winston would purchase a new building in town from Glenn Brackett (former owner of Winston). This is the current home of Winston’s bamboo rod production. Bob and Annette worked hard to rebuild what was lost in the fire and continued the legacy of the worlds finest fly rod. Much of the new benches and tools Bob built himself to replace what was lost in the devastating fire. With the new shop opening up in 2019, Winston was again able to welcome in those who come to see how these beautifully crafted rods are made.

* All history on this blog post was provided by R.L. Winston Rod Company and their staff.

I always wondered where the R.L. Winston came from. It is from Robert and Lew, the original owners. As one can see, Winston has had a long and important history in fishing rods, beginning as the Keene Boat Rod Company in the late 1920’s, and eventually becoming the company that creates some of the finest fly fishing rods in the world today. But we aren’t here to talk about everything Winston, so I’m bringing it back to our subject, Winston bamboo.

In our 47 year history, The Fly Shop® has never offered Winston Bamboo fly rods – we have always looked to the future, instead of the past. We’ve been infatuated with the newest technology and how graphite rods are faster, lighter and more efficient tools. These rods became faster and faster over the years, in part to help the caster eliminate tailing loops. They have become so fast in recent years that line manufacturers are now offering lines that are 1/2 to 2 1/2 sizes heavy to help load them. The slower action of a bamboo rod can be a bit more difficult to control during the cast, but those who can control the deliberate, pure action of bamboo while sight fishing to a rising trout will be pleasantly rewarded with the ultimate feel when hooked up. There is nothing that compares to the feeling of the bamboo bending under the cork of the handle with every tail thrust of even a 10” trout. We all owe a debt of gratitude to those innovative rod builders that came before us, including those who championed the bamboo rods that spearheaded the direction of fly rods in America. In 2025 we will be carrying a small array of R.L. Winston handcrafted bamboo rods in the shop and in our catalog. If you would like to experience pure joy while playing a trout on your local stream, give serious thought to owning a true piece of handcrafted art that stems from the very roots of our sport. If you don’t see the rod you want, let us know and we will special order it for you.

For those that choose to make such an investment, there isn’t a better bamboo fly rod to own and fish.

Butt section of a Winston bamboo fly rod

Winston Bamboo Fly Rods
Model	Line	Length	Sections	Price
B703	3	7’0″	2	$3,500
B703	3	7’0″	3	$4,000
B764	4	7’6″	2	$3,500
B764	4	7’6″	3	$4,000
B805	5	8’0″	3	$4,000
B865	5	8’6″	3	$3,500

This article certainly isn’t trying to give a full, detailed history of Bamboo fly rods. We are just touching on this history for R.L. Winston Rod Company. If you would like to learn more about the history of Bamboo, we would recommend the following books:

I’m sure there are many other great books and articles out there on Bamboo and it’s history. If you have a suggestion for an added piece of literature please let us know.

2024 Holiday Gift Guide

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The Fly Shop’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

Help yourself buy the perfect Christmas gift for that fly fisher on your list with our Holiday Gift Guide. These fly fishing gifts won’t break the bank and will surely put a smile on your fly fishers face come Christmas morning.

And to help you, all Ground shipping between Thanksgiving and Christmas is FREE!

Not seeing what you like, give us a call (800) 669-3474 (530) 222-3555 and one of our fly fishing pros can help.

Cling Mag Grab Mini – $19.99
This new gear-gadget is perfect for every angler that wants to organize his kit. It will hold your nippers, hemostats and flies without the hassle of putting them in a fly patch or vest. The rare earth magnets are strong; just stick the gear on this aluminum patch and forget about it until you need it. There are several great colors and graphic options to choose from.

Klean Kanteen 20 oz TKWide Insulated Water Bottle – $34.95
Kick Plastic! Single use plastic water bottles are a scourge! Help rid the earth of plastic and invest in reusable water bottles like The Fly Shop’s insulated Klean Kanteen! It keeps your beverages cold or hot with its dual chamber insulated and stainless steel walls and shows the world you are doing your part to Kick Plastic.

The Fly Shop’s Sundial T-Shirt – $36.95
This soft cotton t-shirt is super comfy and something your fly fisher will wear. The iconic drift boat image with the Sundial Bridge in the background embodies fly fishing on the Lower Sacramento River. These won’t be around long, grab yours today.

The Fly Shop Gift Card – you choose the value
Sometimes choosing the right gift for that fly fisher is as difficult as choosing the right dry fly. Take the stress and worry out of Christmas and purchase a gift card from The Fly Shop®. Your beloved will be thrilled to purchase the things he wants – easy, peasy for the both of you.

Winston PURE 2 Fly Rod – $995.00
Want to go BIG this Christmas? The new Winston PURE 2 is a dreamy dry fly rod that will make your light line fly fishing easy and enjoyable. All of the Winston rods are handmade in the United States in Twin Bridges, Montana. Every rod is made with love by folks with a strong passion for fly fishing and excellence.

Galvan Swing Spey Reels – $515-$640
We were thrilled when Galvan Reels introduced their new Spey reels featuring a 100% enclosed frame that keeps your running line from jumping out of the reel – UGH! 100% made in the USA by a fly fishing family who cares, the new Galvin Swing Spey Reels feature a sealed drag, are fully anodized in subtle gunmetal finish, all at a very affordable price. Treat yourself – it’s Christmas!

Abel Nipper – $170-$425
The second generation of Abel Nipper makes a great gift. Two sets of rare earth magnets keep the jaws open without a hinge that can corrode and also acts as a reliable “fly dock” to hold your flies while rigging. An easily adjustable braided lanyard is included. Abel nippers set the bar for high-end, quality nippers that will last a lifetime.

Fishpond Summit Sling 2.0 – $119.95
The most comfortable fly fishing design-rich sling-pack available today, the Summit Sling 2.0 offers all the features you expect and want in a technical sling. Three large main compartments and numerous exterior attachment points provide plenty of storage space and quick access to the tools you need most.

Guided Fishing Day – $625/day
Book a day or two on a NorCal fishery with one of our seasoned guides. Few things are better than spending the day with your loved one or friend chasing rainbow trout or steelhead. Our guides are fishy, great instructors and love hooking-up anglers on the sport of fly fishing.

- 1 or 2 anglers (lunch provided as well as all tackle)

Umpqua UPG Silicone Fly Box – $24.99-$34.99
UPG boxes are lightweight, slim, and offer fast and easy-organized access to your flies without the extra bulk. The newly designed silicone fly inserts offer maximum holding power through dense self-healing slots that won’t break down over time.

NCCFFI Hall of Fame Event

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NCCFFI Hall of Fame Event – The History & Story

David Draheim, then a member of Mount Diablo Fly Fishers conceived the idea of the Hall of Fame Event to honor Fly Fishers who had given so much to the sport of fly fishing & helping our fisheries, and a way to generate funding for conservation efforts in Northern California. The Hall of Fame became a major event starting in 1982 based upon an organized process of submitting possible award recipients from our clubs to a knowledgeable selection committee & choosing the best of the candidates for the award. Here are some of the inductees in the Fly Fishing Hall of Fame:

This year the NCCFFI is partnering with The Fly Shop® and bringing back the Hall of Fame Event (set for Saturday, November 9^th at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Hall in Lafayette CA, starting at 4:30 PM). The Hall of Fame award is given to recognize & honor outstanding people who have contributed to excellence in Fly Fishing.

The 2024 recipient will be Mike Mercer, one of the world’s leading designers with original flies including Mercer’s Missing Link, the Psycho Prince Nymph, the Poxyback Microstone Stonefly Nymph and the Tungsten Swing Caddis Fly (and many others). Mike grew up fly fishing, has worked at The Fly Shop since 1978, and been a regular contributor with articles appearing in Fly Fisherman magazines and many other publications over the years. Mike’s book, Creative Fly Tying, has become a “must have” for trout fly fishers & tyers. In addition, Mike has been a guide on many of Northern California’s famous trout waters (including Hat Creek & Fall River), along with traveling & fly fishing internationally in Chile, Argentina, Kamchatka, New Zealand as well as many tropical saltwater locations (helping customers to plan their own fly fishing adventures).

At the Hall of Fame Event, there will be a reception & dinner, with speeches & the award for Mike Mercer, plus silent auction & live auction. The live auction items offered at the Hall of Fame Event will be amazing…including:

Fishing at Patagonian BaseCamp

A one week trip to Patagonian BaseCamp Lodge in Chile (March 16^th through 23^rd, 2025), the same week Mike Mercer will be at the camp. This is an amazing lodge, one of The Fly Shop’s signature destinations with excellent fishing, food & accommodations. The value for this truly one of a kind fly fishing experience is $8,495.

Reservations at Baranof Wilderness Lodge

A five night/five & one half day trip to Baranof Wilderness Lodge in Alaska with hosts Mike & Sally Trotter, located on Warm Springs Bay on the east side of Baranof Island. Guest will stay in private cabins on the property and can choose to fish either in local streams loaded with Chum & Pink Salmon, Dolly Vardens, or hike to local lakes to fish for cutthroat trout, or fish on ocean-going boats for five species of salmon or halibut. The accommodations & food at this venue are wonderful and the value is $7,950.

Angler and guide landing a fish at Lago Strobel Lodge

A one week trip to Lago Strobel Lodge in Argentina, located on Jurassic Lake. Those fishing the lake will have access to a dozen large, protected coves (along 15 miles of shoreline), where they can fish for monster trout from shore, wading the lake edge. In addition, guests can opt to fish the Barrancoso River with floating lines, fishing either streamers or dry flies. The food & accommodations at this venue are outstanding and the value is $4,500.

Additional Live Auction Items include a 3 Day/3 Night trip to Antelope Lodge (northeast of Mount Shasta) valued at $2,412, a 3 Day/2 Night Stay at Clear Creek Ranch on Clear Creek, valued at $1,890, 2 Days of Fishing at Battle Creek Canyon Ranch (45 minutes from Redding), valued at $600, plus two amazing fly rods…an Orvis Helios F with Missing Link on Handle (9 Foot/5 Weight) valued at $1,500 and a Winston Air 2 (9 Foot/5 Weight) an $1,195 value.

There will also be 28 additional high value silent auction items including three Fly Shop guided trips on the Lower Sacramento River (for 2 anglers, valued at $625 each), a Scott Series G Fly Rod (9 Foot-6 weight, valued at $895), a Fly Shop TFS Signature H2O Indicator Outfit (9’6” 6 weight, valued at $445), a Sage Foundation 590/4 outfit (9’0” 4 weight, valued at $495), a Skwala Carbon Wading Jacket (valued at $449) a Ross Cimarron 5-6 Fly Reel, with AirFlo Superflo WF5F line (valued at $424.99) and numerous additional items from Patagonia, Korkers, Fishpond, Costa, Carhardt, Scientific Anglers, Loon, Seaguar & others. More details will be forthcoming on the auction & silent auction items as we get closer to the Hall of Fame event.

We are planning to accommodate up to 200 people for the catered Hall of Fame Dinner on November 9^th. The cost of the Dinner Event is $160 per person and tickets are being sold on a first come first served basis (better hurry to get your tickets before we sell out).

You won’t want to miss this event!
Sign up Today!

Mercer Hall of Fame link image

For Tickets go to the NCCFFI website by clicking this link to register Hall of Fame

Gear Review: Winston Pure 2 Fly Rods

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The Winston Pure Series is known as an accurate and delicate presentation style rod with a wide range of lengths and weights to accommodate any small stream or lake. This series of rods is well known for being the perfect dry fly and small nymph rod. The PURE 2 has taken the previous model and added lighter swing weight, better recoil recovery, and thrives with dries and dry dropper setups.

The new PURE 2 is the first Winston to incorporate their new double-bonded NanoParticle technology. This incredible material enhances both performance and presentation yet creates an unbelievably stable rod blank with exceptional feel. Ultimately, NanoParticle technology enhances the classic Winston action and improves lightness, durability, and strength, while easily loading at typical trout fishing distances.

The worst part about fishing this rod is that I now want to buy one! This would be the perfect rod for all of my smaller creek fishing, throwing dries to skittish trout. After fishing a couple of these rods, I was able to experience first hand the accuracy and ease of casting they offer. From tight areas packed with trees and bushes to open flats casting at sippers on a spring creek flat, the 9’0” 4-weight and the 9’0” 5-weight had the versatility to do both flawlessly. There are several great size options available, ranging from a 7’3” 2-weight up to the 9’0” 5-weight. See table below for all of the available models.

Model	Line	Length	Grip	Price
732-4	2	7’3″	Cigar	$995.00
693-4	3	6’9″	Cigar	$995.00
793-4	3	7’9″	Cigar	$995.00
794-4	4	7’9″	Cigar	$995.00
834-4	4	8’3″	Cigar	$995.00
904-4	4	9’0″	Cigar	$995.00
835-4	5	8’3″	Cigar	$995.00
905-4	5	9’0″	Cigar	$995.00

If you aren’t sure which one of these great new rod models would be the perfect fit for your angling, give me a call. I would be happy to talk through what makes each of these rods unique and make sure that you get the right rod that fits your angling needs.

Suggested Fly Line:
The Scientific Anglers Mastery Trout floating fly line was the easy choice when lining up this rod. I cast it with a few different lines, and as expected it thrived with the longer head and true to weight line for both long back casts, and shorter roll casts. While it can handle the heavier lines, you really don’t need it. The lighter line loads the rod making close shots effortless. I’d relate this to a nice relaxed swing with a softer shaft golf club. There are different rods that can punch the big lines and heavy flies further, but that’s not what this rod was designed for. If you’re looking for a rod with the soul from rods of the past, with the best materials and performance of today’s technology, give us a call and we’ll get it in your hands.

Jordan “JT” Taylor
Retail Associate/Former Alaska Guide
jordan@theflyshop.com
800-669-3474

Staff Bio – Joel Crandall

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Born in Youngstown, Ohio but I’ve been living in Redding most of my life. I’ve had the opportunity to fish and explore most of the beautiful Northern California. I was introduced to fly fishing at a young age but didn’t really pursue it until a couple years ago. I love being active and spending time with the people I love.

Joel Crandall as a young kid holding a fish with his dad

Q&A with Joel Crandall:

How you did you get started in fly fishing?
My dad, like a lot of people.

What does Fly Fishing do for you that keeps you coming back for more?
I love the feeling of setting the hook and holding the fish after a good hard fight, but most of all I love getting outside and exploring. It gives me an opportunity to get away from everyone and it’s a great way for me to clear my head.

Favorite Fish to pursue?
Trout and steelhead

What fly fishing destination is on your Bucket List?
New Zealand and Chile

Favorite Fly Rod and Why?
My Winston Air 2 9′ 5wt. Such a beautifully made rod and so effortless to cast. They have the best customer service, great people, and are made in the states. The perfect rod for the McCloud and Upper Sac.

Favorite Reel and Why?
Any Galvan reel. I’ve put my Galvan reels through hell and they come out looking just as new as when I first got it. Their carbon fiber disc drag system requires little to no maintenance and is as smooth as any reel. Super clean design and balances very well. They have the best warranty, made only a few hours south of us, and are an even better family!

Favorite Fly and Why?
Pat’s Rubberlegs, simple. You can use them on any river within a 75 mile radius and catch fish on it. There is an abundance of stoneflies in our area and this is the fly I’ve had the best luck with. I always keep one on my line.

What is your greatest fly fishing extravagance?
Probably Pyramid Lake. Catching a 30 inch fish out there is so common people don’t bat an eye at it. It’s such a unique fishery.

Joel holding a fish at Pyramid Lake

Which living or non-living fly fisher would you want to spend a day Fly Fishing with?
My dad or Mike Mercer

Who are your favorite writers?
JR. Tolkien, George R. R. Martin, and C.S. Lewis

What single issue in fly fishing do you feel has the greatest adverse potential?
Popularity

What is your most memorable fly fishing trip you’ve taken?
Probably one of the first times I went on the Lower Sac with my dad when I was 13.

Who are your heroes in real life?
My dad

What is your Fly Fishing Pet Peeve?
Getting low holed or people fishing too close.

What do you most value in your friends?
Connection and loyalty.

If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
An orca

Staff Bio – Eric Fields

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I started fly fishing in 1998, and I was lucky enough to have friends who guide, and they were willing to take me out fishing, so I learned from the best. After trying most of the various techniques in fly fishing I feel that I’m most suited for Spey fishing for steelhead. I hope one day to try saltwater fishing at an exotic location.

Q&A with Eric Fields:

How you did you get started in fly fishing?
I started out conventional fishing, and I needed a new challenge.

What does Fly Fishing do for you that keeps you coming back for more?
Fishing new waters and new techniques.

Favorite Fish to pursue?
Steelhead, and top water bass fishing.

What fly fishing destination is on your Bucket List?
Fishing for redfish and black drum in Louisiana.

Favorite Fly Rod and Why?
Sage X. I feel it is the most versatile rod for most applications,

Favorite Reel and Why?
Galvan Torque. Lightweight, good drag, and made in California.

Favorite Fly and Why?
C.B. Assassin, my most constant swinging pattern on the Klamath System.

Eric fighting a fish from the boat on the Fall River

What is your greatest fly fishing extravagance?
Winston Micro Spey 4 weight with a Galvan Torque 7

Which living or non-living fly fisher would you want to spend a day Fly Fishing with?
Mike Mercer

Who are your favorite writers?
Dec Hogan

What single issue in fly fishing do you feel has the greatest adverse potential?
The lack of new people interested in fly fishing.

What is your most memorable fly fishing trip you’ve taken?
When I went to Tierra del Fuego for sea-run brown trout.

Which talent or natural gift would you most like to have?
I would like to have the discipline to work out.

Who are your heroes in real life?
James Hetfield

What do you most value in your friends?
Someone who has close to the same values as I do.

If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?
A dog for sure!

2024 Father’s Day Gift Guide

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Father’s Day is just around the corner (Sunday – June 16th) and like every year we have come up with some wonderful gift ideas for that very special person in your life. Dad, this one’s for you!

Korkers Fish Flip™
We can’t think of a cooler gift than some flip flops that have a cool fish graphic on them. Add a little fun to dad’s day and his footwear with these artistic renditions of something almost every dad would love. The sticky rubber soles make these ideal for on the boat, around the pool, or for heading to the lake. And talk about comfort, these things have a double stack midsole design with anatomical molded footbed featuring crazy comfortable Cush-Tech™. These will bring a smile to dad’s face.

20/20 Magnetic Tippet Threader
We add this one every year as we just love this little tool. Whether your eyesight is not as good as it used to be, or you are trying to tie a fly on right at dusk, this tool is extremely helpful. Let the magnets hold your fly in place and simply slide your tippet down the groove to thread the eye of your fly. You’re back in the game in no time.

Scott Session Fly Rods
Is it time for dad to upgrade his fly rod? Scott’s newer Session series won’t break the bank but will give him top notch American made performance. Session rods are high-performance hand-crafted fly rods that blend some of Scott’s most acclaimed design approaches with their latest materials and technologies. Give dad a tool that he’ll be happy with for many years to come.

Klean Kanteen 20 oz TKWide Insulated Water Bottle
As we know, plastic bottles are becoming a recycling nightmare and many of us have chosen to stop purchasing and using them. Instead, switching to a reusable stainless steel version that keeps our water cold or our coffee hot for hours and removes waste from our planet. This bottle isn’t only great for cold drinks, but can also be used as dad’s everyday coffee cup as well. Comes with the leak proof Café Cap which turns any TKWide insulated bottle into an instant to-go coffee mug.

Patagonia Men’s Tropic Comfort Natural Hoody
As we all found out, sun protection is vital. Keep dad protected with an ultra comfortable sun protection garment that keeps him cool while keeping his skin safe from harmful sun rays. Delivering dependable 40+ UPF sun protection and ingenious on-the-water functionality, the Tropic Comfort Natural Hoody features Patagonia’s modal fabric. Engineered from renewable, natural beech tree pulp, this hoody is super-soft and breathable yet durable for the most demanding hot-weather adventures.

The Fly Shop Gift Card
Maybe you are unsure exactly what your dad would like for Father’s Day. A gift card from The Fly Shop® is a great gift to let him choose exactly what he’s been drooling over to add to his fishing kit. Gift cards can be used for all goods and services that we offer.

Guided Day of Fly Fishing for You & Dad
Nothing means more to parents than spending time with their kids. A day on the water with one of our excellent guides gives you that opportunity. Let one of our guides row you down the river while you and dad enjoy a fun, relaxing day of angling and chatting. Quality time together is one of the most valuable gifts you can give, and you’ll have a lot of fun!

Cody’s Fish License Plate Creations
There is a lot of fly fishing art out there in the world, but nothing is quite as unique as Cody Richardson’s license plate fish art. Not only are these license plates molded into dad’s favorite fish shape, but the license plates from the state or country of his choice make them quite unique. Whether it’s a trout or something more exotic, these pieces make a statement about his passion for the sport. They look great in an office, at the cabin, on the back patio, or anywhere else they can be displayed.

Skwala Sol Wading Pants
If you are looking for something that will keep dad comfortable all day and look great on, then these pants are a must buy. We’ve never worn a pair of “fishing” pants that are more comfortable and stylish than these. Dad will look great and thank you everytime he puts them on. Many of us here at The Fly Shop® have purchased these and wear them both for work and play.

Not seeing something that you are looking for? You can find all kinds of other products in our online catalog. This gets updated regularly with new products as they become available.

Happy Father’s Day!

Choosing Your Fly Fishing Sunglasses

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Sunglass selection can be a touchy subject for many, as sunglasses are such a personal choice. We aren’t going to tell you what style, brand or model to buy, but rather give some insight and suggestions on lens color and functionality.

One of the most important pieces of equipment for any fly fisherman is their sunglasses. One of the few risks involved in fly fishing is getting a wayward hook into the eye. Wearing sunglasses whenever fishing, or even casting on the lawn, will help mitigate a serious eye injury.

Sunglasses will also protect your eyes from harmful rays from the sun. The best sunglasses for fishing feature polarized lenses. Polarized lenses are treated with a chemical that filters out light. The filter is applied vertically, so vertical light can pass through, but horizontal light cannot. The lenses block all the horizontal light waves bouncing off the surface of the water allowing you to see under the surface. It’s weird science, but it works!

Chart showing how polarization works on sunglasses

Additionally, polarization helps you not only spot fish, but also allows you to see underwater hazards like a rock ledge, stump, boulder or hole. Polarized lenses can come in a variety of different shades and colors. If you are going to have one set of fishing shades, lenses in brown, amber, or copper will cover the broadest range of light situations. Other options include yellow and gray; yellow lenses are best for low-light situations, while gray lenses are the best for seeing true colors which can be especially useful in blue water fishing.

“I’d rather forget my fly rod on a trip than my sunglasses” – Mel Kreiger

Lens Color

Lens Options:
“Whether you’re traveling across the country or to the local river, it never feels good to get to the ramp and realize you have the wrong gear. I’ve been wearing a mixture of green mirror and the sunrise silver (yellow) mirrored lenses depending on the light conditions. I recently received a pair of Costa’s new Rose Gold lenses to give me more versatility in any light condition, and look forward to putting them to the test. Here’s a breakdown of how I’ve used my lenses, and the different options available for your next pair!” – Jordan Taylor

Jordan Taylor (JT) wearing sunglasses while fly fishing

Blue and green mirrored lenses will block the most light with only 10% light transmission making them great for full sun days. Blue mirrors are best used for bright days on open water where the green mirrors are better utilized for sight fishing in the flats, rivers/streams, and shallow lakes.

Copper Green
- Copper Tint
- 10% Light Transmission
- 100% Polarized
- Bright sight fishing for full sun
Blue
- Grey Tint
- 10% Light Transmission
- 100% Polarized
- Open water non sight fishing

The Sunrise Silver (yellow) lens compliments either of those lenses with 27% light transmission. Living in Northern California we are no stranger to the sun which makes you think this lens isn’t necessary, but I have been pleasantly surprised with how much I use them. They have been an easy option on overcast days, and perfect for any morning/evening even on the sunniest summer days.

Sunrise Silver
- Yellow Tint
- 27% Light Transmission
- 80% Polarized
- Low light conditions
- Specialty lens

Costa’s new Rose Gold lens offers the most versatility with a light transmission of 14% to bridge the gap between the darker mirrored lenses, and lighter yellow lens options. Our local guides helped develop the brightness of them to find the best balance of shading from our bright summer sun, without having to take them off and fish unprotected for the first and last hour of light.

Gold/Rose
- 14% Light Transmission
- 100% Polarized
- Most versatile lens available
- Going to be the best Trout lens EVER!

Copper Silver has always been a staple for versatility with 12% light transmission to cut the glare on sunny days, while giving you a warm viewing experience on cloudy days. My coworker Shannon has Type 1 diabetes which has caused him to be very sensitive to light, and he’s been wearing this color for years. I’ve never seen him outside any time the sun is around without them on. They allow him to see clearly when driving to his favorite spots, and most importantly giving him the edge to spot fish trying to disguise themselves from us under water.

Copper Silver
- Copper Tint
- 12% Light Transmission
- 100% Polarized
- All around sight fishing
- Most versatile sight fishing lens

The Grey Silver mirrored glasses are a great option for any of your non fishing activities. They offer a cool viewing experience with minimal color distortion. When driving in high sun situations the Grey Silver mirror will reduce glare from your hood or other vehicles to minimize eye strain and get you to your destination safely.

Grey Silver
- 12% Light Transmission
- 100% Polarized
- Driving/Lifestyle/Non Fishing

Lens Material:
There are basically two options, glass or polycarbonate (plastic). Some people prefer the lightness in weight they get from polycarbonate lenses, but you have to be extremely careful not to scratch them. One grain of sand or debris and using your shirt or lens cloth to clean them, and they are ruined, permanently. Many of us here, even though they are a bit heavier, prefer the glass option for our lenses. Glass is more durable in the long run and you won’t have to be as concerned about scratches on your lenses – longer lifespan.

Mirroring is also a great feature on sunglasses that you are going to use stalking tailer’s. Mirrored lenses cut down extreme glare common on the flats. While not as important for many freshwater applications, you will appreciate mirrored lenses on a bright sunny day in the Caribbean.

Angler wearing mirrored sunglasses

Frame Choice & Fit:
“Frame choice is a very personal decision. Everyone’s face is shaped differently. Frames that I love might slip right off of your face, and frames that you love might put huge pressure behind my ears! You want to get a frame that fits YOU perfectly, something that fits snuggly and is stable on your face, but doesn’t pinch the bridge of your nose, or put pressure behind or over the ears. You also want to make sure you are not getting a lot of direct light coming around the frame into your eyes – called “light leakage”. Get a pair that wraps a little better and keeps out stray light. You definitely need some air flow, though, so they are not constantly steaming up. You also do not want to have a bunch of the frame visible to your own eyes when wearing them. This is very distracting, and restricts your view. Try on a bunch of different frames until you find the right one for you.”

“The options are endless and finding the perfect pair is a lifelong hunt, just like flats fishing itself… Costa Del Mar, Smith, Bajio, Oakley, Maui Jim, and Breakline, among others, all make fantastic high-end sunglasses for angling. I have fished with most of them and, at the moment, my favorites are Costa Del Mar 580g Green Mirror lenses on Reefton frames. Comfortable, durable and I can tell what color a permit’s eyes are at 100 yards. Give us a shout and let us help find the perfect pair of x-ray goggles for you, too!” – Justin Miller

https://catalog.theflyshop.com/sunglasses/

(800) 669-3474 | (530) 222-3555 | info@theflyshop.com