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MorganWFranklin

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Jan 7, 2010, 11:37:11 AM1/7/10
to Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders
Hello,
I just moved to Alexandria about a year and a half ago from south
Florida. I have not even purchased a rod yet, but am eager to learn
about fly fishing in this area. I have been fishing the saltwater
flats throughout FL my whole life. My father and brother bagan taking
lessons on fly fishing in FL. I have attended a few lessons myself but
I would enjoy learning from some local experts.

I look forward to learning from you,
Morgan

Dan Davala - Founder

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Jan 7, 2010, 12:33:46 PM1/7/10
to Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders
Welcome aboard Morgan. Rods in 8-10 weight are the tools of the trade
here in the Tidal Potomac. A number of us also use Two-Handed "Spey"
rods, but I still recommend a 9' 8 weight as the primary rod. An 8
weight would be an ideal flats rod too for whenever you venture back
home to visit. There is quite a talent pool in this club, so I
believe you will be well served. All of us are on some sort of
learning curve, so the term "expert" is subjective. I'm certain there
is something you can teach us as well. Thank you for your interest,
and for joining TPFR.

See you on the River with my ice skates,

Dan

MorganWFranklin

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Jan 7, 2010, 1:29:23 PM1/7/10
to Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders
Thank you, that is some great information. I was looking at getting a
5wt 4 pc version of my father’s rod that I really enjoyed casting but
maybe I should just get the same one. It is a Temple Fork Lefty Kreh
series 9' 8wt 2 pc. I was thinking a 4 piece making it easier to
travel with but that isn't a requirement.

I would also really appreciate any suggestions of some good shops in
the area. My family really enjoys a local shop in their area that is
very one on one and more personal. I always prefer supporting local
businesses. I saw the Urban Anglers store but have yet to visit.

Thank you again!
Morgan

On Jan 7, 12:33 pm, Dan Davala - Founder <daniel.dav...@gmail.com>
wrote:

> > Morgan- Hide quoted text -
>
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Jeff Cook

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Jan 7, 2010, 1:51:46 PM1/7/10
to tidal-potoma...@googlegroups.com
Hi Morgan. I'm still new-ish to this, but I've been to what I think
are the three main choices here in Northern Virginia. Dan (who started
this group) works with Bert at Orvis in Clarendon/Arlington. Urban
Angler you mentioned off Lee Highway in Arlington. And LL Bean is in
Tysons Corner.

I just got fully tricked out Orvis, and I'm already itching for spring
(though Dan and Bert swear they fish all winter). I've also got what
may be the only Gheenoe north of the Carolinas, (something you might
be familiar with) but I've yet to get it on the Potomac. 2010 is a
year for fishing!

--
Jeff Cook
je...@cookstudios.com


On Jan 7, 2010, at 1:29 PM, MorganWFranklin

Bob Grove

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Jan 7, 2010, 2:03:22 PM1/7/10
to tidal-potoma...@googlegroups.com
Get a 4 piece rod.

Get it from the Orvis store in Claredon.

You'll never be sorry for either decision.





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obassociates

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Jan 7, 2010, 2:23:40 PM1/7/10
to tidal-potoma...@googlegroups.com
Morgan,

Welcome. As Dan says an 8wt is a nice rod for the river, and I have several
TFO rods and really like them. I would get the 4 piece rod, it's just easier
to move around with.

John Bilotta
FFF CCI

MorganWFranklin

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Jan 7, 2010, 2:33:35 PM1/7/10
to Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders
HAHA yeah, I am definitely familiar with a Gheenoe. I did see the
Orvis site and will check them out. I was also thinking the 4 piece
would be best for me as well.

I can already see signing up to this group is paying off,
Morgan

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obassociates

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Jan 7, 2010, 4:27:40 PM1/7/10
to tidal-potoma...@googlegroups.com

It's pretty cold and while there might not be a lot of fishing going on for
most people, that are things we can be working on. Here are a several that I
am trying to concentrate on in the New Year.

1. Casting. I will get outside with my fly rods at least several times a
week and work on an old or new skill. I take 15-30 minutes, or until the
fingers get too cold, and practice. It doesn't really matter what the skill
really is, I work on all sorts of thing. This week I am working on
horizontal or side arm casts under objects from 20-35 feet. Horizontal
casts are also a great way to warm up and to watch my forward and backward
loops, work on my stops etc. Next week, I will pick something else that I
need to constantly practice - mends or curves - who knows.

2. Take a first aid course. I just recertified. It's fun and you might save
a life. Red Cross has this great online program that you can do your CPR and
basic first aid online, and then go to one class to demo what you've learned
and get certified. I think its $75 and you can take the class in Alexandria.


3. Find new locations. I am trying to get out and hike the canal, parts of
the river and several streams in the area that I plan to fish and plan my
strategies for the spring.

4. Reorganize my vest and fly boxes. I generally try to keep my gear
organized, but it does sometime get away from me. So I find doing a vest
reorg is vital. Flies, tippet, floatant all need a look.

5. When all else fails. I plan a trip somewhere warm.

See you out there

John Bilotta
FFF CCI


Dan Davala - Founder

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Jan 7, 2010, 8:08:24 PM1/7/10
to Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders
Thank you all for the vote of confidence. Best bet is to visit all of
the shops mentioned, cast all of the rods, and decide on what's best
for you. I try to run the fly shop I would like to shop at, but most
people working full time in the fly fishing business are doing so
because they are passionate about fly fishing. I try to avoid things
of a commercial nature on this site, so check out all of your options,
and try before you buy. You are also fortunate to be in an area with
so many FFF certified casting instructors in one place. Bert and I
are FFF CCI's, as is John Bilotta, Cary Pugh, and Frank LoPresti. It
really doesn't matter much what kind of rod you have if you don't load
it right. A complete list of instructors in your area is here:

http://www.fedflyfishers.org/Default.aspx?tabid=4465
(just fill in the search criteria)

Regardless of what brand of rod you buy, absolutely make it a four
piece, as there is no disadvantage to the action and a four piece is
easier to transport whether via plane, train, or automobile.
Also, regardless of brand, my instruction is free any time I'm on the
clock, so stop by and take advantage of it.

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