Cert no. XXX-XXX-000ANGLER’S ANNUAL TWENTY SEVENTEEN

HATCH OUTDOORS

01

ARTICLES

02 BOZEMAN BOOTLEGGERS

04 SPRING CREEKS

06 CATCHING UP WITH CONFLUENCE FILMS

12 PICK YOUR POISON

14 ETIQUETTE ESSENTIALS: ANGLING IN SCOTL AND

18 BA JA OBSESSION

REELS

20 FINATICAL

21 1 FRAME, 2 SPOOLS

21 1 PLUS FINATIC

22 2+3 PLUS FINATIC

23 4+5 PLUS FINATIC

24 7+9 PLUS FINATIC

25 11+12 PLUS FINATIC

26 DESIGN FE ATURES

ACCESSORIES

28 NOMAD PLIERS

29 HATCH NIPPERS

30 KNOT TENSION TOOL NEW

31 BACKING

32 FLY LINE NEW

34 FLUORO + MONO NEW

36 REEL SPECS

I N V E N T O R Y—

Fall is my favorite time of year. The

fi shing and hunting are at their peak and

the forests are on fi re with color. Fall also

brings a time of refl ection, personally and

professionally. It’s an opportunity to take

stock in all things important, including

planning for the events of the New Year.

By this time of year, my calendar is damn

near full for the next. Carefully coordinating

family, fi shing (business), and hunting outings

with military-like precision. It’s a process

that proves to be both daunting and exciting

at the same time. For whatever reason, it

provides me with a sense of purpose and

lays the foundation for what lies ahead. I

couldn’t imagine my life without a plan or,

more importantly, a trip on the books +1.

On a recent archery elk hunting trip

in Colorado, a friend and colleague

of mine discovered that we both

live by the same formula: t+1.

While the minimum number of trips

one should have on the books is two,

the correct number is t+1, where t is

the number of trips currently booked.

This equation may also be rewritten as

s-1, where s is the number of trips that would

result in separation from your partner.*

Now it doesn’t have to be an epic journey

to a far off land—although those are

nice. It could be as simple as a weekend

getaway to connect with a friend, family

member, or mother nature. Everyone

needs these getaways. They provide us

with a much needed chance to reboot

the batteries and often fi ll us with a

sense of balance and perspective. So get

out there and hit the road in 2017, and

don’t forget to take your gear with you.

We would like to thank everyone inside and

outside of the industry who have supported

us over the years. We feel truly blessed to be

able to do what we do, and honored to be

part of such a great sport. Without you there

wouldn’t be Hatch, and we never lose sight of

that fact. Take care and hook ’em hard in ’17.

Cheers — John & Danny

*Adapted from Rule #12 at Velominati.com

01

ARTICLES

02 BOZEMAN BOOTLEGGERS

04 SPRING CREEKS

06 CATCHING UP WITH CONFLUENCE FILMS

12 PICK YOUR POISON

14 ETIQUETTE ESSENTIALS: ANGLING IN SCOTL AND

18 BA JA OBSESSION

REELS

20 FINATICAL

21 1 FRAME, 2 SPOOLS

21 1 PLUS FINATIC

22 2+3 PLUS FINATIC

23 4+5 PLUS FINATIC

24 7+9 PLUS FINATIC

25 11+12 PLUS FINATIC

26 DESIGN FE ATURES

ACCESSORIES

28 NOMAD PLIERS

29 HATCH NIPPERS

30 KNOT TENSION TOOL NEW

31 BACKING

32 FLY LINE NEW

34 FLUORO + MONO NEW

36 REEL SPECS

I N V E N T O R Y—

Fall is my favorite time of year. The

fi shing and hunting are at their peak and

the forests are on fi re with color. Fall also

brings a time of refl ection, personally and

professionally. It’s an opportunity to take

stock in all things important, including

planning for the events of the New Year.

By this time of year, my calendar is damn

near full for the next. Carefully coordinating

family, fi shing (business), and hunting outings

with military-like precision. It’s a process

that proves to be both daunting and exciting

at the same time. For whatever reason, it

provides me with a sense of purpose and

lays the foundation for what lies ahead. I

couldn’t imagine my life without a plan or,

more importantly, a trip on the books +1.

On a recent archery elk hunting trip

in Colorado, a friend and colleague

of mine discovered that we both

live by the same formula: t+1.

While the minimum number of trips

one should have on the books is two,

the correct number is t+1, where t is

the number of trips currently booked.

This equation may also be rewritten as

s-1, where s is the number of trips that would

result in separation from your partner.*

Now it doesn’t have to be an epic journey

to a far off land—although those are

nice. It could be as simple as a weekend

getaway to connect with a friend, family

member, or mother nature. Everyone

needs these getaways. They provide us

with a much needed chance to reboot

the batteries and often fi ll us with a

sense of balance and perspective. So get

out there and hit the road in 2017, and

don’t forget to take your gear with you.

We would like to thank everyone inside and

outside of the industry who have supported

us over the years. We feel truly blessed to be

able to do what we do, and honored to be

part of such a great sport. Without you there

wouldn’t be Hatch, and we never lose sight of

that fact. Take care and hook ’em hard in ’17.

Cheers — John & Danny

*Adapted from Rule #12 at Velominati.com

0302

Harris then teamed up with Thomas McGuane to help produce

and distill all of the spirits. Both are Montana State University

grads who focused most of their previous years on their artistic

sides—McGuane, a knife maker and Harris, a photographer. Those

artistic values carry through to the distillery in many forms.

BSD is located in Historic Downtown Bozeman, Montana. Arguably,

in the heart of the best fl y fi shing in the country. All the manufacturing,

distilling, and bottling happens on Main Street at their facility located

in the old Schnees Boots and Shoes building, where the iconic

Schnees brand initiated. Harris jokes, “they used to make boots in

this building and now we make booze...so we are a true ‘Bootlegger!’”

“There is a great sense of community within the craft distillery

movement,” Harris says. With craft distilleries across America making

up less than 1% of all liquor consumed, distillers tend to reach out to

one another to form friendships and work together to grow awareness.

Montana’s distillers formed the Montana Distillers Guild, where they

join forces to help promote Montana made products across the state.

Supporting local agriculture is important to BSD’s brand and

products. The simple philosophy of buying local extends to eating

locally raised produce and meats, and now, to drinking local. While

using Montana grains and fruits as much as possible, we end up

supporting Montana families throughout the state. “It’s pretty cool

to go see a fi eld full of barley being harvested that will end up in

the distillery. Once the grain arrives, McGuane will mash, ferment &

distill 600lbs at a time. After the whiskey is distilled several times, it

will be placed into new 53 gallon American white oak barrels to age.

“That’s 100% American made by Montanans,” Harris explains.

Bozeman Spirits Distillery manufactures several types of

spirits: Whiskey, Vodka, Gin, Rum, Huckleberry Vodka and their

most recent creation, Lemon Flavored Vodka. With expansion

plans already under way, Harris acquired an additional 12,000

square foot building this past January to house bottles, grain,

empty barrels and everything else that goes into producing

spirits. “We ran out of room the day we opened,” Harris jokes.

The distillery also produces a line of spirits only sold in Yellowstone

National Park—Roche Jaune—a name given to Yellowstone by

18th Century French Fur Trappers meaning ‘Rock Yellow’.

While the distillery movement is very similar to the brewery

movement of the late 80’s and early 90’s, Bozeman Spirits Distillery

has positioned itself as a fi xture of Bozeman and the state of

Montana. “We have a great group of people (employees), from the

tasting room to the manufacturing side of things. I couldn’t be

happier with all the new friends we have made and the jobs we

have created,” says Harris. “With the expansion plans to enable

production of more whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum, we are all excited

about the future and creating more local jobs for Montana.”

The distillery offers a tasting room on Main Street located in Historic

Downtown Bozeman Montana. Feel free to stop in, sip on some

Montana 1889 Whiskey or enjoy one of their famous cocktails like the

Huckleberry Mule made with our award winning Huckleberry Flavored

Vodka, ginger beer with a squeeze of lime served in a copper mug!

BOZEMANSPIRITS.COM121 W MAIN STBOZEMAN, MT 59715

BOZEMAN BOOTLEGGERS

—

AS AN AVID ANGLER AND LOVER OF GREAT TASTING SPIRITS, JIM HARRIS FOUNDED BOZEMAN SPIRITS DISTILLERY IN LATE 2012.ALONG WITH HIS WIFE, MARY PAT, HE PUT IN AN IMMEASURABLE AMOUNT OF TIME OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, AND THE DISTILLERY OPENED ITS DOORS ON OCTOBER 31ST, 2014.

STORY & PHOTOS // JIM HARRIS

0302

Harris then teamed up with Thomas McGuane to help produce

and distill all of the spirits. Both are Montana State University

grads who focused most of their previous years on their artistic

sides—McGuane, a knife maker and Harris, a photographer. Those

artistic values carry through to the distillery in many forms.

BSD is located in Historic Downtown Bozeman, Montana. Arguably,

in the heart of the best fl y fi shing in the country. All the manufacturing,

distilling, and bottling happens on Main Street at their facility located

in the old Schnees Boots and Shoes building, where the iconic

Schnees brand initiated. Harris jokes, “they used to make boots in

this building and now we make booze...so we are a true ‘Bootlegger!’”

“There is a great sense of community within the craft distillery

movement,” Harris says. With craft distilleries across America making

up less than 1% of all liquor consumed, distillers tend to reach out to

one another to form friendships and work together to grow awareness.

Montana’s distillers formed the Montana Distillers Guild, where they

join forces to help promote Montana made products across the state.

Supporting local agriculture is important to BSD’s brand and

products. The simple philosophy of buying local extends to eating

locally raised produce and meats, and now, to drinking local. While

using Montana grains and fruits as much as possible, we end up

supporting Montana families throughout the state. “It’s pretty cool

to go see a fi eld full of barley being harvested that will end up in

the distillery. Once the grain arrives, McGuane will mash, ferment &

distill 600lbs at a time. After the whiskey is distilled several times, it

will be placed into new 53 gallon American white oak barrels to age.

“That’s 100% American made by Montanans,” Harris explains.

Bozeman Spirits Distillery manufactures several types of

spirits: Whiskey, Vodka, Gin, Rum, Huckleberry Vodka and their

most recent creation, Lemon Flavored Vodka. With expansion

plans already under way, Harris acquired an additional 12,000

square foot building this past January to house bottles, grain,

empty barrels and everything else that goes into producing

spirits. “We ran out of room the day we opened,” Harris jokes.

The distillery also produces a line of spirits only sold in Yellowstone

National Park—Roche Jaune—a name given to Yellowstone by

18th Century French Fur Trappers meaning ‘Rock Yellow’.

While the distillery movement is very similar to the brewery

movement of the late 80’s and early 90’s, Bozeman Spirits Distillery

has positioned itself as a fi xture of Bozeman and the state of

Montana. “We have a great group of people (employees), from the

tasting room to the manufacturing side of things. I couldn’t be

happier with all the new friends we have made and the jobs we

have created,” says Harris. “With the expansion plans to enable

production of more whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum, we are all excited

about the future and creating more local jobs for Montana.”

The distillery offers a tasting room on Main Street located in Historic

Downtown Bozeman Montana. Feel free to stop in, sip on some

Montana 1889 Whiskey or enjoy one of their famous cocktails like the

Huckleberry Mule made with our award winning Huckleberry Flavored

Vodka, ginger beer with a squeeze of lime served in a copper mug!

BOZEMANSPIRITS.COM121 W MAIN STBOZEMAN, MT 59715

BOZEMAN BOOTLEGGERS

—

AS AN AVID ANGLER AND LOVER OF GREAT TASTING SPIRITS, JIM HARRIS FOUNDED BOZEMAN SPIRITS DISTILLERY IN LATE 2012.ALONG WITH HIS WIFE, MARY PAT, HE PUT IN AN IMMEASURABLE AMOUNT OF TIME OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, AND THE DISTILLERY OPENED ITS DOORS ON OCTOBER 31ST, 2014.

STORY & PHOTOS // JIM HARRIS

0504

SPRING CREEKS

—

SPRING CREEKS ARE SPECIAL PLACES FOR TROUT AND ANGLERS. COLD, CLEAN AND NUTRIENT RICH WATERS MAKE FOR THE PERFECT TROUT AND BUG HABITAT.

Longtime a mecca for anglers, the spring creeks near Livingston

Montana—Armstrong, Nelson, and Depuy’s—are some of the

fi nest examples of these unique bodies of water that you can fi nd

anywhere in the world. Located on large, private ranches in Paradise

Valley, they charge a daily rod fee to get on. These are the type of

properties that make guys like Ted Turner green with envy. It is a

testament to the generosity of the families that own them and still

let people on, in a world of wealthy land owners that do not.

A lot of people balk at paying a fee to fi sh them, which is

understandable in a state with such liberal stream access

laws. I can burn more gas in my truck in one day than

the rod fees cost, so I have never had any issues fi shing

these creeks a few minutes drive from my house.

They are a reliable piece of home water. It can be -5 or 95 degrees

and you can always count on the fi sh willing to play ball, along

with cold clear water that will remind you of a bottle of Bombay

Sapphire. So many times the fi sh are hidden from our view, but

spring creeks can deliver a sight fi shing experience second to none

in trout fi shing. However, there is a price to pay with this: the fi sh

can also see you in exquisite detail. As much as you like that bright

turquoise shirt, best to leave it at home and wear something dull.

During a good hatch, which there are many throughout the year,

these creeks are magical dry fl y fi sheries and challenging match-the-

hatch type fi shing. Tiny fl ies, 6-7x tippet and picky fi sh, fl at water,

and moving targets the size of a shot glass… really challenging stuff,

particularly late in the summer after they have been sharpened up

by anglers. These fi sh regularly humble people and it is a great

opportunity to learn technical dry fl y fi shing. There is still plenty

of room for outside of the box thinking though, particularly during

summer terrestrial time. If you are a fl y tyer, this is a great laboratory

to test your bugs. If they can cut it here, you have done a good job.

In addition to the prolifi c amount of bugs in these creeks, they

are a perfect spawning habitat for trout. Many of the fi sh that

reside in the Yellowstone River downstream were spawned in

these spring creeks, and there is no telling how many young trout

they contribute to the overall system. Throughout the year, there

are thousands of juvenile trout in these creeks. Generally these

youngsters, at least the smart ones, keep a low profi le in marginal

water out of the way of the adults for good reason: they get eaten.

My Home Invader streamer, tied small and in the proper color

scheme, is a lock for a baby trout. I came up with the design

almost 20 years ago and it has proved itself over the years as a

baby trout imposter. I remember the fi rst time I fi shed Depuy’s

ten years ago on a breezy (blowing 50 mph) November day. I

caught a good-sized brown trout on this fl y on my very fi rst cast

and have been pressing their buttons with it ever since.

STO

RY

// D

OU

G M

CKN

IGH

TPH

OTO

S //

JER

EMIE

HO

LLM

AN

Catching trout, especially big ones on dry fl ies during a hatch,

is without a doubt the most satisfying way to catch a trout.

Watching a big brown trout become unglued over a streamer is

a thrill to experience, especially when you can watch it. Sight

nymphing a fi sh, or even watching your bobber go down, it’s all

fun and satisfying in its own right. Even though these creeks

see lots of anglers, there are plenty of spots that still don’t get

fi shed. It is often these odd little spots that hold an exceptional

fi sh, and it never gets old seeing where these fi sh will hold.

A few of my more dry fl y elite type friends (most of these guys have

glasses and grey hair) give me all kinds of shit for fi shing streamers

on such hallowed dry fl y ground. “McKnight you’re going to hell…

Doug, Joe Brooks is rolling over in his grave… Ernie Schwiebert is

going to have you struck by lightning one of these days…” I calmly

explain that I am just doing some unconventional match-the-hatch

type fi shing. Don’t get me wrong, bugs hatching and rising fi sh, I

will clip back my 2x and put some light stuff on and grab my small

fl y box fi lled with Harrop patterns. Which by the way, work as well

on these spring creeks as they do on the fabled Railroad Ranch.

However, if dries are not on the table, I generally gravitate

towards this method. Who knows, maybe there are big red-spotted

brown trout sitting next to log jams on the River Styx? I defi nitely

don’t want to live in hell, but if the rivers down there have good

fi shing, I would pay a rod fee to get on once in a while.

0504

SPRING CREEKS

—

SPRING CREEKS ARE SPECIAL PLACES FOR TROUT AND ANGLERS. COLD, CLEAN AND NUTRIENT RICH WATERS MAKE FOR THE PERFECT TROUT AND BUG HABITAT.

Longtime a mecca for anglers, the spring creeks near Livingston

Montana—Armstrong, Nelson, and Depuy’s—are some of the

fi nest examples of these unique bodies of water that you can fi nd

anywhere in the world. Located on large, private ranches in Paradise

Valley, they charge a daily rod fee to get on. These are the type of

properties that make guys like Ted Turner green with envy. It is a

testament to the generosity of the families that own them and still

let people on, in a world of wealthy land owners that do not.

A lot of people balk at paying a fee to fi sh them, which is

understandable in a state with such liberal stream access

laws. I can burn more gas in my truck in one day than

the rod fees cost, so I have never had any issues fi shing

these creeks a few minutes drive from my house.

They are a reliable piece of home water. It can be -5 or 95 degrees

and you can always count on the fi sh willing to play ball, along

with cold clear water that will remind you of a bottle of Bombay

Sapphire. So many times the fi sh are hidden from our view, but

spring creeks can deliver a sight fi shing experience second to none

in trout fi shing. However, there is a price to pay with this: the fi sh

can also see you in exquisite detail. As much as you like that bright

turquoise shirt, best to leave it at home and wear something dull.

During a good hatch, which there are many throughout the year,

these creeks are magical dry fl y fi sheries and challenging match-the-

hatch type fi shing. Tiny fl ies, 6-7x tippet and picky fi sh, fl at water,

and moving targets the size of a shot glass… really challenging stuff,

particularly late in the summer after they have been sharpened up

by anglers. These fi sh regularly humble people and it is a great

opportunity to learn technical dry fl y fi shing. There is still plenty

of room for outside of the box thinking though, particularly during

summer terrestrial time. If you are a fl y tyer, this is a great laboratory

to test your bugs. If they can cut it here, you have done a good job.

In addition to the prolifi c amount of bugs in these creeks, they

are a perfect spawning habitat for trout. Many of the fi sh that

reside in the Yellowstone River downstream were spawned in

these spring creeks, and there is no telling how many young trout

they contribute to the overall system. Throughout the year, there

are thousands of juvenile trout in these creeks. Generally these

youngsters, at least the smart ones, keep a low profi le in marginal

water out of the way of the adults for good reason: they get eaten.

My Home Invader streamer, tied small and in the proper color

scheme, is a lock for a baby trout. I came up with the design

almost 20 years ago and it has proved itself over the years as a

baby trout imposter. I remember the fi rst time I fi shed Depuy’s

ten years ago on a breezy (blowing 50 mph) November day. I

caught a good-sized brown trout on this fl y on my very fi rst cast

and have been pressing their buttons with it ever since.

STO

RY

// D

OU

G M

CKN

IGH

TPH

OTO

S //

JER

EMIE

HO

LLM

AN

Catching trout, especially big ones on dry fl ies during a hatch,

is without a doubt the most satisfying way to catch a trout.

Watching a big brown trout become unglued over a streamer is

a thrill to experience, especially when you can watch it. Sight

nymphing a fi sh, or even watching your bobber go down, it’s all

fun and satisfying in its own right. Even though these creeks

see lots of anglers, there are plenty of spots that still don’t get

fi shed. It is often these odd little spots that hold an exceptional

fi sh, and it never gets old seeing where these fi sh will hold.

A few of my more dry fl y elite type friends (most of these guys have

glasses and grey hair) give me all kinds of shit for fi shing streamers

on such hallowed dry fl y ground. “McKnight you’re going to hell…

Doug, Joe Brooks is rolling over in his grave… Ernie Schwiebert is

going to have you struck by lightning one of these days…” I calmly

explain that I am just doing some unconventional match-the-hatch

type fi shing. Don’t get me wrong, bugs hatching and rising fi sh, I

will clip back my 2x and put some light stuff on and grab my small

fl y box fi lled with Harrop patterns. Which by the way, work as well

on these spring creeks as they do on the fabled Railroad Ranch.

However, if dries are not on the table, I generally gravitate

towards this method. Who knows, maybe there are big red-spotted

brown trout sitting next to log jams on the River Styx? I defi nitely

don’t want to live in hell, but if the rivers down there have good

fi shing, I would pay a rod fee to get on once in a while.

0706

CATCHING UP WITH CONFLUENCE FILMS:Q&A WITH JIM KLUG& CHRIS PATTERSON—

THIS IS YOUR 5TH FILM TOGETHER AND YOU’RE STILL TALKING TO EACH OTHER. WHAT’S THE SECRET?

CP: Ha, it's a bit like a marriage, so you know there are a few

tough moments. Jim and I actually make great partners on these

fi lms. We each have our defi ned roles and we respect, without

question, each persons strengths and opinions. I feel that this is

such a rewarding way to work. To be honest, I have it easy, I just

get to do what I love and make movies. Jim keeps researching and

suggesting the ideas and then he fi nds a way to get them paid for!

JK: I would say the secret is that we both bring very different

things to the table. We defi nitely compliment each other and

let each other focus on the things that we do best. If Chris was

not my partner in this, I have no doubt that I never would have

entered the realm of fi lmmaking. I am fortunate to work with

the best shooter and cinematographer in the business.

THIS IS THE FIRST FILM FOCUSED ON A SINGLE LOCATION VERSUS SEGMENTS. WHAT WAS THE THINKING BEHIND THIS DECISION?

CP: When we shot Waypoints, we spent two weeks with the

FlyCastaway crew on St Brandon’s Atoll and they have a lot of

great stories. Big adventure stuff that only guys from Africa can

tell. Gerhard told us the story of Providence Atoll that detailed

the amazing fi shing and the remote nature of the Atoll. Then he

continued with the chapter about the live-aboard ship that they had

previously operated being taken by pirates, which lead to the outer

atolls then being completely closed off for the last six years. The

story of a possible return to the area was amazing, and both Jim

and I felt that it could easily make a movie in itself. It is too good a

story to jam into a 15-minute segment like those in our traditional

multi-location movies. We knew it would be expensive to pull off,

but we have great, longtime partners (Hatch, Simms, Yeti, Costa,

Yellow Dog) who trust us and were willing to support this project.

JK: So many times with previous fi lm segments we would

shoot a ton of amazing footage and capture so many interesting

things only to then cut everything down to 15 minutes. Chris

and I had talked numerous times about shooting a project

where we could really dive into a story in detail, creating a full-

length fi lm about a single area, group of people and fi shery.

Providence Atoll and the story of piracy throughout the area

was perfect for our fi rst full-length, single-story project.

CAN YOU GIVE US A BRIEF RUNDOWN OF THE LOCATION OF THE FILM. WHERE IS PROVIDENCE?

JK: Providence is the largest, most remote, and least-visited

island in the Seychelles. Few people have ever fi shed there, and

the eco-system exists in a state that has been 100% untouched by

the hand of man. The fi shery is truly amazing—exactly what you

would expect from a destination that sees virtually zero pressure.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE BRIEF HISTORY OF THE LOCATION AND WHY IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GO THERE?

JK: Overall, the Seychelles are still a relative newcomer to the

international saltwater scene when it comes to destination angling.

And while destinations like Alphonse and Farquhar are becoming

fairly well known, the distant out-islands like Cosmoledo, Astove

and Providence are still considered the “new frontier” in the region.

Providence and some of the other out-islands had been fi shed by a

handful of people and a couple of South African operators during

the early and mid-2000s, but all of these areas and islands were

then closed by the Seychellois government in 2009 after a number

of ships were hijacked by Somali pirates. For six long years these

atolls and islands sat untouched—completely unvisited and unfi shed.

You can imagine how good the fi shing was when we went back in!

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE TARGET SPECIES?

JK: Fishing Providence is like fi shing in one of the world’s most

exotic saltwater aquariums. There are literally HUNDREDS of

species found on the fl ats and all throughout the shallow waters of

the atoll, including giant trevally, huge bonefi sh, permit, bumphead

parrotfi sh, Napoleon wrasse, bluefi sh trevally, milkfi sh, barracuda,

countless kinds of snapper and grouper... the list is defi nitely kind

of overwhelming. And the great thing is that every one of these fi sh

seems to eat like they’ve never before seen a fl y or an angler!

WHO WERE THE CHARACTERS INVOLVED IN THE FILM?

JK: The fi lm primarily profi les Gerhard Laubscher and Tim

Babich from South Africa and Camille Egdorf from Montana.

There are also great interviews with Ryan Hammond of

South Africa as well as Francis Roucou, the former captain

of the MV Indian Ocean Explorer who was captured and held

hostage by Somali pirates for several months in 2009.

PROVIDENCE IS THE LARGEST, MOST REMOTE, AND LEAST-VISITED ISLAND IN THE SEYCHELLES. FEW PEOPLE HAVE EVER FISHED THERE. . .”

“INTERVIEW // JOHN TOROKPHOTOS // CHRIS PATTERSON

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JIM KLUG

CINEMATOGRAPHYCHRIS PATTERSONCOLIN WITHERILL

DIRECTED AND EDITED CHRIS PATTERSON

0706

CATCHING UP WITH CONFLUENCE FILMS:Q&A WITH JIM KLUG& CHRIS PATTERSON—

THIS IS YOUR 5TH FILM TOGETHER AND YOU’RE STILL TALKING TO EACH OTHER. WHAT’S THE SECRET?

CP: Ha, it's a bit like a marriage, so you know there are a few

tough moments. Jim and I actually make great partners on these

fi lms. We each have our defi ned roles and we respect, without

question, each persons strengths and opinions. I feel that this is

such a rewarding way to work. To be honest, I have it easy, I just

get to do what I love and make movies. Jim keeps researching and

suggesting the ideas and then he fi nds a way to get them paid for!

JK: I would say the secret is that we both bring very different

things to the table. We defi nitely compliment each other and

let each other focus on the things that we do best. If Chris was

not my partner in this, I have no doubt that I never would have

entered the realm of fi lmmaking. I am fortunate to work with

the best shooter and cinematographer in the business.

THIS IS THE FIRST FILM FOCUSED ON A SINGLE LOCATION VERSUS SEGMENTS. WHAT WAS THE THINKING BEHIND THIS DECISION?

CP: When we shot Waypoints, we spent two weeks with the

FlyCastaway crew on St Brandon’s Atoll and they have a lot of

great stories. Big adventure stuff that only guys from Africa can

tell. Gerhard told us the story of Providence Atoll that detailed

the amazing fi shing and the remote nature of the Atoll. Then he

continued with the chapter about the live-aboard ship that they had

previously operated being taken by pirates, which lead to the outer

atolls then being completely closed off for the last six years. The

story of a possible return to the area was amazing, and both Jim

and I felt that it could easily make a movie in itself. It is too good a

story to jam into a 15-minute segment like those in our traditional

multi-location movies. We knew it would be expensive to pull off,

but we have great, longtime partners (Hatch, Simms, Yeti, Costa,

Yellow Dog) who trust us and were willing to support this project.

JK: So many times with previous fi lm segments we would

shoot a ton of amazing footage and capture so many interesting

things only to then cut everything down to 15 minutes. Chris

and I had talked numerous times about shooting a project

where we could really dive into a story in detail, creating a full-

length fi lm about a single area, group of people and fi shery.

Providence Atoll and the story of piracy throughout the area

was perfect for our fi rst full-length, single-story project.

CAN YOU GIVE US A BRIEF RUNDOWN OF THE LOCATION OF THE FILM. WHERE IS PROVIDENCE?

JK: Providence is the largest, most remote, and least-visited

island in the Seychelles. Few people have ever fi shed there, and

the eco-system exists in a state that has been 100% untouched by

the hand of man. The fi shery is truly amazing—exactly what you

would expect from a destination that sees virtually zero pressure.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE BRIEF HISTORY OF THE LOCATION AND WHY IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GO THERE?

JK: Overall, the Seychelles are still a relative newcomer to the

international saltwater scene when it comes to destination angling.

And while destinations like Alphonse and Farquhar are becoming

fairly well known, the distant out-islands like Cosmoledo, Astove

and Providence are still considered the “new frontier” in the region.

Providence and some of the other out-islands had been fi shed by a

handful of people and a couple of South African operators during

the early and mid-2000s, but all of these areas and islands were

then closed by the Seychellois government in 2009 after a number

of ships were hijacked by Somali pirates. For six long years these

atolls and islands sat untouched—completely unvisited and unfi shed.

You can imagine how good the fi shing was when we went back in!

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE TARGET SPECIES?

JK: Fishing Providence is like fi shing in one of the world’s most

exotic saltwater aquariums. There are literally HUNDREDS of

species found on the fl ats and all throughout the shallow waters of

the atoll, including giant trevally, huge bonefi sh, permit, bumphead

parrotfi sh, Napoleon wrasse, bluefi sh trevally, milkfi sh, barracuda,

countless kinds of snapper and grouper... the list is defi nitely kind

of overwhelming. And the great thing is that every one of these fi sh

seems to eat like they’ve never before seen a fl y or an angler!

WHO WERE THE CHARACTERS INVOLVED IN THE FILM?

JK: The fi lm primarily profi les Gerhard Laubscher and Tim

Babich from South Africa and Camille Egdorf from Montana.

There are also great interviews with Ryan Hammond of

South Africa as well as Francis Roucou, the former captain

of the MV Indian Ocean Explorer who was captured and held

hostage by Somali pirates for several months in 2009.

PROVIDENCE IS THE LARGEST, MOST REMOTE, AND LEAST-VISITED ISLAND IN THE SEYCHELLES. FEW PEOPLE HAVE EVER FISHED THERE. . .”

“INTERVIEW // JOHN TOROKPHOTOS // CHRIS PATTERSON

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JIM KLUG

CINEMATOGRAPHYCHRIS PATTERSONCOLIN WITHERILL

DIRECTED AND EDITED CHRIS PATTERSON

0908

ANY DRONES USED IN THE FILMING? ANY MILITARY DRONES AROUND?

CP: We did use a drone to get the birds-eye view of the atoll and

the fi shery. It was amazing. Once we were there and shooting with

the drone from 1800 feet above the water, I realized that if we had

tried making this movie fi ve years ago or even two years ago, we could

have never shown the incredible scale of the place without a drone.

The drone was a fantastic tool and Colin Witherill—an old friend that

I’ve worked with all over the world in my job with Warren Miller—did

all of the fl ying and shooting. We even built what we referred to as our

“mini aircraft carrier” out of a regular skiff to take off and land the

drone while on the water. The aerial shots are amazing. When you see

things like a huge school of Bumpies coming right at a casting angler

or GTs feeding from above, it is defi nitely a very cool perspective.

ANY “ADVENTUROUS” MOMENTS YOU WANT TO SHARE?

CP: We had our share of super-sharky moments while fi lming

the underwater footage, including some large and very curious

bull sharks. We also had a “real world” pirate scare, but you’ll

have to see the movie to see how that one turned out.

WHAT TYPE OF EQUIPMENT WAS USED FOR FISHING?

JK: We fi shed a lot of big rods, great reels and heavy leaders

for GTs. When you’re fi shing for these trevally, you usually fi sh

a 12 wt. rod, a large Hatch 12+ reel, and Hatch backing and

lines. When you’re fi shing for species that are completely violent

and destructive, you better bring the best gear possible. These

fi sh specialize in wrecking tackle, breaking rods, taking entire

fl y lines, and generally destroying everything they can. When

you are in such a remote location with nothing available but the

gear you brought along, its important to have the very best.

LOGISTICALLY, HOW DID THIS SHOOT COMPARE TO THE OTHER FILMS?

JK: It was certainly more remote and “out there” than just about

any place we’ve ever visited. We sailed from Mahe to Farquhar,

which took about three days on the open ocean. From there

another eight hours or so to cross over to Providence Atoll. Since

the atoll is totally uninhabited with no infrastructure at all, the

mothership was the perfect platform for fi shing and exploring the

atoll. We lived on the boat for three weeks while fi lming. Overall,

there were a lot of moving pieces, a lot of crew, a full-time team

of security guards, and tons of equipment. The end result will be

impressive, so I have no doubt that it will have all been worth it.

WHAT WAS THE FILM SHOT ON? CAMERAS, ETC.

CP: Well there’s our underwater drone, mini-sub, an 8K ultra-

slow motion camera and... Actually, what’s funny is that with every

other project that I work on and shoot these days (car commercials,

Warren Miller fi lms, Hollywood productions) I am constantly using

all kinds of big fancy cameras, cranes, dollies, helicopters and all

the trendy gear. When I shoot these fi lms for Confl uence, however,

I always go with the simple approach of an old-school documentary

fi lmmaker. I actually keep the gear small and simple and typically

shoot with Canon DSLR cameras—both above and below the water.

It’s such a great system for these types of fi lms. In the places

we shoot these movies, it’s paramount that you keep up with the

story as it unfolds, so we can never be inhibited or slowed down

by our gear. We need to be mobile and ready to roll all the time.

IT’S A LONG WAY FROM MONTANA. WHAT PUSHES YOU BOYS TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH?

CP: Honestly, today it’s getting harder and harder to really

WOW people with movies and locations. I can get pretty negative

sometimes about how there are so many people making so many

movies about this and that. At times it feels like “everything

has been already done.” Then, something new comes up and

a great story or great location inspires me. The Providence

project was a perfect challenge for us to make into a fi lm.

JK: There is no doubt that the world is getting a lot smaller

these days, and with the advent of Instagram, social media and

all kinds of instant “video shorts,” it is defi nitely getting harder

to show people something that they have yet to see. The great

thing about fi shing fi lms is, that often times, fi sh live in places

that would never be visited or seen were it not for the promise of

great fi shing. These places are often hard to get to and expensive,

but the sponsors that we have with Confl uence have always been

great about supporting these types of adventurous projects.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LIVING ACCOMMODATIONS / MOTHERSHIP?

CP: I have been a Cousteau fan since childhood, so I’ve

always loved the concept of long-range “live-aboard” trips. Our

boat was big and solid and defi nitely felt like an expedition

ship. We would bust ass all day and work hard to the point of

exhaustion, so a comfortable room with air conditioning and

plenty of cold beer at the end of the day was a huge help. And

really, an army marches on its stomach. I think Napoleon said

that. The kitchen on the boat produced some incredible meals.

JK: It was a great platform for the weeks that we were out

there. I defi nitely felt like we were living aboard the Belafonte from

The Life Aquatic. I felt like Steve Zissou should be captaining

the boat, and all of us should be wearing red beanies.

I HAD REQUESTED THAT YOU FILM A SEGMENT ON THE FLATS AROUND SOMALIA THAT LOOKED PROMISING ON GOOGLE EARTH. DOESN’T APPEAR THAT IT MADE THE CUT. WHAT GIVES?

CP: I think that’s what we’re planning for the next movie. We

also want to extend an invite to you and Danny. We’ll need some

key logistics guys when it comes to negotiating ransoms.

IS THIS A TRIP THAT PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO DO IN THE FUTURE?

JK: For sure. We are already booking and offering this trip through

Yellow Dog Flyfi shing Adventures. It’s not a trip that is suited for

everyone, but for those that want the fi nest GT action in the world, in

a fi shery that is huge, pristine and totally untouched, this is a great

trip. I would have to say that there is no place like it on the planet.

IN THE PLACES WESHOOT THESE MOVIES,IT’S PARAMOUNT THATYOU KEEP UP WITH THESTORY AS IT UNFOLDS. . .”

“

0908

ANY DRONES USED IN THE FILMING? ANY MILITARY DRONES AROUND?

CP: We did use a drone to get the birds-eye view of the atoll and

the fi shery. It was amazing. Once we were there and shooting with

the drone from 1800 feet above the water, I realized that if we had

tried making this movie fi ve years ago or even two years ago, we could

have never shown the incredible scale of the place without a drone.

The drone was a fantastic tool and Colin Witherill—an old friend that

I’ve worked with all over the world in my job with Warren Miller—did

all of the fl ying and shooting. We even built what we referred to as our

“mini aircraft carrier” out of a regular skiff to take off and land the

drone while on the water. The aerial shots are amazing. When you see

things like a huge school of Bumpies coming right at a casting angler

or GTs feeding from above, it is defi nitely a very cool perspective.

ANY “ADVENTUROUS” MOMENTS YOU WANT TO SHARE?

CP: We had our share of super-sharky moments while fi lming

the underwater footage, including some large and very curious

bull sharks. We also had a “real world” pirate scare, but you’ll

have to see the movie to see how that one turned out.

WHAT TYPE OF EQUIPMENT WAS USED FOR FISHING?

JK: We fi shed a lot of big rods, great reels and heavy leaders

for GTs. When you’re fi shing for these trevally, you usually fi sh

a 12 wt. rod, a large Hatch 12+ reel, and Hatch backing and

lines. When you’re fi shing for species that are completely violent

and destructive, you better bring the best gear possible. These

fi sh specialize in wrecking tackle, breaking rods, taking entire

fl y lines, and generally destroying everything they can. When

you are in such a remote location with nothing available but the

gear you brought along, its important to have the very best.

LOGISTICALLY, HOW DID THIS SHOOT COMPARE TO THE OTHER FILMS?

JK: It was certainly more remote and “out there” than just about

any place we’ve ever visited. We sailed from Mahe to Farquhar,

which took about three days on the open ocean. From there

another eight hours or so to cross over to Providence Atoll. Since

the atoll is totally uninhabited with no infrastructure at all, the

mothership was the perfect platform for fi shing and exploring the

atoll. We lived on the boat for three weeks while fi lming. Overall,

there were a lot of moving pieces, a lot of crew, a full-time team

of security guards, and tons of equipment. The end result will be

impressive, so I have no doubt that it will have all been worth it.

WHAT WAS THE FILM SHOT ON? CAMERAS, ETC.

CP: Well there’s our underwater drone, mini-sub, an 8K ultra-

slow motion camera and... Actually, what’s funny is that with every

other project that I work on and shoot these days (car commercials,

Warren Miller fi lms, Hollywood productions) I am constantly using

all kinds of big fancy cameras, cranes, dollies, helicopters and all

the trendy gear. When I shoot these fi lms for Confl uence, however,

I always go with the simple approach of an old-school documentary

fi lmmaker. I actually keep the gear small and simple and typically

shoot with Canon DSLR cameras—both above and below the water.

It’s such a great system for these types of fi lms. In the places

we shoot these movies, it’s paramount that you keep up with the

story as it unfolds, so we can never be inhibited or slowed down

by our gear. We need to be mobile and ready to roll all the time.

IT’S A LONG WAY FROM MONTANA. WHAT PUSHES YOU BOYS TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH?

CP: Honestly, today it’s getting harder and harder to really

WOW people with movies and locations. I can get pretty negative

sometimes about how there are so many people making so many

movies about this and that. At times it feels like “everything

has been already done.” Then, something new comes up and

a great story or great location inspires me. The Providence

project was a perfect challenge for us to make into a fi lm.

JK: There is no doubt that the world is getting a lot smaller

these days, and with the advent of Instagram, social media and

all kinds of instant “video shorts,” it is defi nitely getting harder

to show people something that they have yet to see. The great

thing about fi shing fi lms is, that often times, fi sh live in places

that would never be visited or seen were it not for the promise of

great fi shing. These places are often hard to get to and expensive,

but the sponsors that we have with Confl uence have always been

great about supporting these types of adventurous projects.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LIVING ACCOMMODATIONS / MOTHERSHIP?

CP: I have been a Cousteau fan since childhood, so I’ve

always loved the concept of long-range “live-aboard” trips. Our

boat was big and solid and defi nitely felt like an expedition

ship. We would bust ass all day and work hard to the point of

exhaustion, so a comfortable room with air conditioning and

plenty of cold beer at the end of the day was a huge help. And

really, an army marches on its stomach. I think Napoleon said

that. The kitchen on the boat produced some incredible meals.

JK: It was a great platform for the weeks that we were out

there. I defi nitely felt like we were living aboard the Belafonte from

The Life Aquatic. I felt like Steve Zissou should be captaining

the boat, and all of us should be wearing red beanies.

I HAD REQUESTED THAT YOU FILM A SEGMENT ON THE FLATS AROUND SOMALIA THAT LOOKED PROMISING ON GOOGLE EARTH. DOESN’T APPEAR THAT IT MADE THE CUT. WHAT GIVES?

CP: I think that’s what we’re planning for the next movie. We

also want to extend an invite to you and Danny. We’ll need some

key logistics guys when it comes to negotiating ransoms.

IS THIS A TRIP THAT PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO DO IN THE FUTURE?

JK: For sure. We are already booking and offering this trip through

Yellow Dog Flyfi shing Adventures. It’s not a trip that is suited for

everyone, but for those that want the fi nest GT action in the world, in

a fi shery that is huge, pristine and totally untouched, this is a great

trip. I would have to say that there is no place like it on the planet.

IN THE PLACES WESHOOT THESE MOVIES,IT’S PARAMOUNT THATYOU KEEP UP WITH THESTORY AS IT UNFOLDS. . .”

“

1110

WHAT DO YOUR WIVES THINK OF YOUR SHENANIGANS?

CP: By now they hardly notice that we’re gone, but they’re also

probably happy we have them on speed dial on the SAT phone. I think

that both Jim and myself were traveling like this and doing these types

of adventures since before either of us were married, so the wives

are defi nitely used to our travel schedules and bizarre destinations.

ANY FILM FESTIVALS ON THE HORIZON?

CP: Not yet. We’re focused on editing, fi nalizing things and

keeping our heads down to make sure we get this story ready

for the big screen in October. There will for sure be dozens

of screenings events throughout the country on October 15

(check the Confl uence Films website for locations and details)

and I’m sure some fi lm festivals down the road a bit.

KNOWING JIM’S DIETARY RESTRICTIONS (STRICTLY MEAT AND POTATOES) WHAT THE HELL DID HE EAT THE WHOLE TRIP?

CP: Jim usually brings a lot of energy bars and

beef jerky along. He’s also big on Pringles. I have seen

him survive for weeks on these travel staples.

YOU TWO ARE AT THE TOP OF THE HEAP WITH REGARDS TO FLY FISHING FILM-MAKING. ANY ADVICE YOU’D CARE TO SHARE WITH THE LEGIONS OF ASPIRING VIDEO MAKERS?

CP: Thanks John. I’d tell them to do whatever they can to always

approach the process with a new perspective. Don’t simply copy a

style or technique that has already saturated the genre. Like I said

earlier, at times you’ll feel like “everything has been done,” but if you

look hard, you can fi nd something that feels new and inspiring. With

regards to “technique,” try not to use too many gizmos and try not to

over-use the slow-motion button. I see so many short fi lms that literally

look and feel identical. Take a leap of faith and try something (a

different technique) that seems a bit risky. In the end, you’ll feel better

about it (especially if it works). For me, I didn’t shoot a frame of slow

motion on this movie, as I wanted it to feel as “natural” as possible.

JK: I honestly believe that the huge surge in video projects and

fi lms has been great for fl y fi shing. The more people that are exposed

to this sport—that see just how cool and how wild fl y fi shing really

is—the better. Yes, it is frustrating at times when you see more

and more people on the water, but we all need to remember that

in time when conservation, public lands and access are all in the

crosshairs of some seriously destructive people, that more people

involved ultimately means more voices that can and will stand up

for our resources and our sport. Fly fi shing fi lms can give a great

voice to these issues, and I always believe that it is a great thing.

WHAT’S NEXT?

CP: It’s funny that whenever I fi nish putting one of these fi lms

together, I sometimes assume that “I’ll never want to do it again.”

The reality, however, is totally the opposite. When the movie is

done, I am climbing the walls to make something else. The sense

of accomplishment just pushes me further towards the next

project. Hopefully by November we are off on another journey. Jim

never rests. He seriously does not stop. He’s already got another

great movie idea that he is presenting to our faithful partners,

but in today’s world we’ll keep that idea quiet for now!

1110

WHAT DO YOUR WIVES THINK OF YOUR SHENANIGANS?

CP: By now they hardly notice that we’re gone, but they’re also

probably happy we have them on speed dial on the SAT phone. I think

that both Jim and myself were traveling like this and doing these types

of adventures since before either of us were married, so the wives

are defi nitely used to our travel schedules and bizarre destinations.

ANY FILM FESTIVALS ON THE HORIZON?

CP: Not yet. We’re focused on editing, fi nalizing things and

keeping our heads down to make sure we get this story ready

for the big screen in October. There will for sure be dozens

of screenings events throughout the country on October 15

(check the Confl uence Films website for locations and details)

and I’m sure some fi lm festivals down the road a bit.

KNOWING JIM’S DIETARY RESTRICTIONS (STRICTLY MEAT AND POTATOES) WHAT THE HELL DID HE EAT THE WHOLE TRIP?

CP: Jim usually brings a lot of energy bars and

beef jerky along. He’s also big on Pringles. I have seen

him survive for weeks on these travel staples.

YOU TWO ARE AT THE TOP OF THE HEAP WITH REGARDS TO FLY FISHING FILM-MAKING. ANY ADVICE YOU’D CARE TO SHARE WITH THE LEGIONS OF ASPIRING VIDEO MAKERS?

CP: Thanks John. I’d tell them to do whatever they can to always

approach the process with a new perspective. Don’t simply copy a

style or technique that has already saturated the genre. Like I said

earlier, at times you’ll feel like “everything has been done,” but if you

look hard, you can fi nd something that feels new and inspiring. With

regards to “technique,” try not to use too many gizmos and try not to

over-use the slow-motion button. I see so many short fi lms that literally

look and feel identical. Take a leap of faith and try something (a

different technique) that seems a bit risky. In the end, you’ll feel better

about it (especially if it works). For me, I didn’t shoot a frame of slow

motion on this movie, as I wanted it to feel as “natural” as possible.

JK: I honestly believe that the huge surge in video projects and

fi lms has been great for fl y fi shing. The more people that are exposed

to this sport—that see just how cool and how wild fl y fi shing really

is—the better. Yes, it is frustrating at times when you see more

and more people on the water, but we all need to remember that

in time when conservation, public lands and access are all in the

crosshairs of some seriously destructive people, that more people

involved ultimately means more voices that can and will stand up

for our resources and our sport. Fly fi shing fi lms can give a great

voice to these issues, and I always believe that it is a great thing.

WHAT’S NEXT?

CP: It’s funny that whenever I fi nish putting one of these fi lms

together, I sometimes assume that “I’ll never want to do it again.”

The reality, however, is totally the opposite. When the movie is

done, I am climbing the walls to make something else. The sense

of accomplishment just pushes me further towards the next

project. Hopefully by November we are off on another journey. Jim

never rests. He seriously does not stop. He’s already got another

great movie idea that he is presenting to our faithful partners,

but in today’s world we’ll keep that idea quiet for now!

1312

PICK YOUR POISON

—

IF YOU FREQUENT FLORIDA IN YOUR FISHINGTRAVELS THEN YOU PROBABLY STAY CONFLICTEDLIKE I DO. One day you may fancy putting a permit in the palms

of your hands, the next you could be two hand stripping for tarpon

while they are violently attacking your fl y at your feet. With so many

options to fi ll your saltwater appetite sometimes it’s hard to choose.

Every angler has their crux, that one fi sh that serves to make you

purely insane chasing them. The more time I spend in my home state

of Florida, the more indecisive I become on which fi sh that is for me.

It all starts at my fl y tying desk. Do I tie a permit crab or a gurgler for

reds? What do I need to tie to target juvi poons? Or would it be better

to knock out some toad fl ies that I could potentially catch snook,

reds and tarpon on? I often end up blankly staring at my vice until I

snap into the zone of what I really desire to target at the moment.

When I was living in Belize my crux was permit. I could go all

day, weeks, and even a year without catching another one, while

remaining undoubtedly just as crazy about them from the fi rst day

I landed one on fl y. Even when I was tempting tailing bones I was

still thinking about permit. It didn’t matter if I was brushing my teeth

or lounging in my hammock, I was still thinking about permit.

I returned to Florida nearly two years ago with a open slate.

All the wiser in the permit game I started to broaden my angling

horizons. If someone would’ve told me a few years back that I

would go bonkers over a barracuda on fl y I would’ve probably

laughed them right off my skiff. They pack the punch of a tarpon

when they attack the fl y and jump as many times or more than the

Silver King. Why didn’t anyone tell me about this before? Could

this be my next poison? What fl ies do I need to tie for these bad

boys of the fl ats? The fi rst ’Cuda Bowl I fi shed in the Keys left

me with more questions and curiosity than I could handle.

Following my departure from the winter time fl y fi shing for ’cudas

in the Keys, I nestled in a new fi shery along the Nature Coast of

Florida, often referred to as the Big Bend. I had no idea what I was

sticking my push pole into as I explored these foreign shorelines.

My fi rst thought was that this coastline reminded me of Louisiana.

Marshy mudfl ats lined with sawgrass and oyster bars surrounded

by oak hammocks and mangrove islands. Look a little closer and

you’ll be fi shing for giant tarpon close to where the mermaids are

swimming in natural springs at the world famous Weeki Wachee.

So this is where they grow giant tarpon in gin clear water? The

fabled Homosassa, FL was my new love. Why are they all so big here?

What do they want to dine on? Do you think they would eat this fl y? So

many questions and so many more blank stares into my vice. If they

eat the worm patterns in the Keys would they do the same up here?

Just when I thought my curiosity was maxed out, I fi shed my fi rst

fl ood tide for tailing reds. Copper clad crab crunchers mowing down

in every direction I looked. Will they eat a top water even though

they are tailing? Let’s fi nd out! “BOOOOOM, FISH ON!” Long casts,

short casts, they pretty much all eat. So if the fl ood tide is so good

here then surely a negative tide would be money, right? I wasn't let

down. Unreal! And if for some reason you become tired of catching

reds just wait for the Jack attack and pick off the poor man’s

permit. Tired of the Jacks?  No problem. If you’re ready for a game

of hide and go seek just start cruising the clam beds for tripletail.

There should be an 800 number for anglers like

me. I’m so confl icted on a daily basis. It’s hard to

pick your poison when you want them all.

STORY // LACEY KELLYPHOTOS // LACEY KELLY & COLORBLIND MEDIA

1312

PICK YOUR POISON

—

IF YOU FREQUENT FLORIDA IN YOUR FISHINGTRAVELS THEN YOU PROBABLY STAY CONFLICTEDLIKE I DO. One day you may fancy putting a permit in the palms

of your hands, the next you could be two hand stripping for tarpon

while they are violently attacking your fl y at your feet. With so many

options to fi ll your saltwater appetite sometimes it’s hard to choose.

Every angler has their crux, that one fi sh that serves to make you

purely insane chasing them. The more time I spend in my home state

of Florida, the more indecisive I become on which fi sh that is for me.

It all starts at my fl y tying desk. Do I tie a permit crab or a gurgler for

reds? What do I need to tie to target juvi poons? Or would it be better

to knock out some toad fl ies that I could potentially catch snook,

reds and tarpon on? I often end up blankly staring at my vice until I

snap into the zone of what I really desire to target at the moment.

When I was living in Belize my crux was permit. I could go all

day, weeks, and even a year without catching another one, while

remaining undoubtedly just as crazy about them from the fi rst day

I landed one on fl y. Even when I was tempting tailing bones I was

still thinking about permit. It didn’t matter if I was brushing my teeth

or lounging in my hammock, I was still thinking about permit.

I returned to Florida nearly two years ago with a open slate.

All the wiser in the permit game I started to broaden my angling

horizons. If someone would’ve told me a few years back that I

would go bonkers over a barracuda on fl y I would’ve probably

laughed them right off my skiff. They pack the punch of a tarpon

when they attack the fl y and jump as many times or more than the

Silver King. Why didn’t anyone tell me about this before? Could

this be my next poison? What fl ies do I need to tie for these bad

boys of the fl ats? The fi rst ’Cuda Bowl I fi shed in the Keys left

me with more questions and curiosity than I could handle.

Following my departure from the winter time fl y fi shing for ’cudas

in the Keys, I nestled in a new fi shery along the Nature Coast of

Florida, often referred to as the Big Bend. I had no idea what I was

sticking my push pole into as I explored these foreign shorelines.

My fi rst thought was that this coastline reminded me of Louisiana.

Marshy mudfl ats lined with sawgrass and oyster bars surrounded

by oak hammocks and mangrove islands. Look a little closer and

you’ll be fi shing for giant tarpon close to where the mermaids are

swimming in natural springs at the world famous Weeki Wachee.

So this is where they grow giant tarpon in gin clear water? The

fabled Homosassa, FL was my new love. Why are they all so big here?

What do they want to dine on? Do you think they would eat this fl y? So

many questions and so many more blank stares into my vice. If they

eat the worm patterns in the Keys would they do the same up here?

Just when I thought my curiosity was maxed out, I fi shed my fi rst

fl ood tide for tailing reds. Copper clad crab crunchers mowing down

in every direction I looked. Will they eat a top water even though

they are tailing? Let’s fi nd out! “BOOOOOM, FISH ON!” Long casts,

short casts, they pretty much all eat. So if the fl ood tide is so good

here then surely a negative tide would be money, right? I wasn't let

down. Unreal! And if for some reason you become tired of catching

reds just wait for the Jack attack and pick off the poor man’s

permit. Tired of the Jacks?  No problem. If you’re ready for a game

of hide and go seek just start cruising the clam beds for tripletail.

There should be an 800 number for anglers like

me. I’m so confl icted on a daily basis. It’s hard to

pick your poison when you want them all.

STORY // LACEY KELLYPHOTOS // LACEY KELLY & COLORBLIND MEDIA

1514

ETIQUETTE ESSENTIALS: ANGLING IN SCOTLAND

—

There are conspicuous no-nos in Scotland: If you call it a

skirt, you’re bound to get yourself kilt. If your unruly dog chases a

crofter’s fl ock of sheep, you’re equally likely to fi nd yourself cold

in the ground. If you wear a visor on the golf course, be ready

to defend yourself against cold stares or worse, a Glasgow Kiss

(that’s a vicious head butt). And then, there are subtle faux pas—

especially with angling—that elude the newly-arrived Yank.

The thought of angling in Scotland can be hugely appealing and

simultaneously, a wee bit daunting to the casual American angler.

There’s books-worth of things to know when fi shing these lochs and

rivers, where sporting tradition is tradition. But by no means is this

setting unapproachable to the contemporary angler of the New West.

Hatch sent me afi eld with the task to observe the delicate nuances

of angling etiquette in the land of wild Atlantic salmon and brown

trout. Under the tutelage of Corin Smith, a Scotsman raised on a

Highland sheep farm, an international guide, and owner of The Wild

Rise Company, I was converted from a common cack-handed boor

to a proper Scottish fl y angler in a matter of days. By following a few

simple rules, you’ll blend in like one of the Old Boys in no time.

RULE 1: DON’T FREAK WHEN YOU FANKLE

Scots fi sh with a “cast of fl ies”. Three fl ies are tied to the

leader, a point fl y at the end and two droppers tied on at eight-

inch intervals, hanging from about four inches of tippet. When

this formidable Cat o’ Three Tails catches the wind and gnarls into

an orgy of fl ies, you have not a tangle on your hands, but rather a

“fankle”, which just sounds like a fated meeting of “f*ck”, “dang”

and “cankle.” A fi tting word for this unfortunate circumstance.

Fishing for browns in lochs requires ideal conditions, that

is, blasting wind. A heavy chop and white-capping are ideal,

which means you’ll be roll casting a lot and false casting

as little as possible. Finding yourself in a fankle is likely, no

matter how experienced a wind caster you are. The key is:

don’t freak when you fankle. Scots are salty folk and unseemly

neuroticism is not part of their general national character.

I had my fi rst brush with the Dreaded F on Loch Damph. I

swear before God and the ghosts of all my ancestors that I barely

lifted my fl ies from the water to ensure they weren’t fouled. A

roaring gale caught the fi rst two droppers, then lifted the third

from the water. Before I knew it, I was all kinds of fankled-up.

I attempted to surreptitiously work out this mono nest in the

back of the boat, but much like their American counterparts,

you can’t conceal much from a good Scottish guide.

“I appreciate the optimism back there, but just cut them

off,” Corin instructed. I was then demoted to two fl ies.

RULE 2: IT’S WHISKY, NOT WHISKEY

And you should sample it often, especially if it’s pissing rain and

the boat’s taking in water. WARNING: if you’re looking for a lighter

dram, you’ve come to the wrong place. Smoky or sweet, it’s worth

sampling the full spectrum of these powerful malts and there are

endless options to try, many from distilleries that are hundreds of

years old. Scots take their scotch whisky neat, with barely a half inch

in the glass. No rocks. No water. No cherries. Don’t even inquire.

STORY // SARAH GRIGGPHOTOS // SARAH GRIGG & CORIN SMITH

1514

ETIQUETTE ESSENTIALS: ANGLING IN SCOTLAND

—

There are conspicuous no-nos in Scotland: If you call it a

skirt, you’re bound to get yourself kilt. If your unruly dog chases a

crofter’s fl ock of sheep, you’re equally likely to fi nd yourself cold

in the ground. If you wear a visor on the golf course, be ready

to defend yourself against cold stares or worse, a Glasgow Kiss

(that’s a vicious head butt). And then, there are subtle faux pas—

especially with angling—that elude the newly-arrived Yank.

The thought of angling in Scotland can be hugely appealing and

simultaneously, a wee bit daunting to the casual American angler.

There’s books-worth of things to know when fi shing these lochs and

rivers, where sporting tradition is tradition. But by no means is this

setting unapproachable to the contemporary angler of the New West.

Hatch sent me afi eld with the task to observe the delicate nuances

of angling etiquette in the land of wild Atlantic salmon and brown

trout. Under the tutelage of Corin Smith, a Scotsman raised on a

Highland sheep farm, an international guide, and owner of The Wild

Rise Company, I was converted from a common cack-handed boor

to a proper Scottish fl y angler in a matter of days. By following a few

simple rules, you’ll blend in like one of the Old Boys in no time.

RULE 1: DON’T FREAK WHEN YOU FANKLE

Scots fi sh with a “cast of fl ies”. Three fl ies are tied to the

leader, a point fl y at the end and two droppers tied on at eight-

inch intervals, hanging from about four inches of tippet. When

this formidable Cat o’ Three Tails catches the wind and gnarls into

an orgy of fl ies, you have not a tangle on your hands, but rather a

“fankle”, which just sounds like a fated meeting of “f*ck”, “dang”

and “cankle.” A fi tting word for this unfortunate circumstance.

Fishing for browns in lochs requires ideal conditions, that

is, blasting wind. A heavy chop and white-capping are ideal,

which means you’ll be roll casting a lot and false casting

as little as possible. Finding yourself in a fankle is likely, no

matter how experienced a wind caster you are. The key is:

don’t freak when you fankle. Scots are salty folk and unseemly

neuroticism is not part of their general national character.

I had my fi rst brush with the Dreaded F on Loch Damph. I

swear before God and the ghosts of all my ancestors that I barely

lifted my fl ies from the water to ensure they weren’t fouled. A

roaring gale caught the fi rst two droppers, then lifted the third

from the water. Before I knew it, I was all kinds of fankled-up.

I attempted to surreptitiously work out this mono nest in the

back of the boat, but much like their American counterparts,

you can’t conceal much from a good Scottish guide.

“I appreciate the optimism back there, but just cut them

off,” Corin instructed. I was then demoted to two fl ies.

RULE 2: IT’S WHISKY, NOT WHISKEY

And you should sample it often, especially if it’s pissing rain and

the boat’s taking in water. WARNING: if you’re looking for a lighter

dram, you’ve come to the wrong place. Smoky or sweet, it’s worth

sampling the full spectrum of these powerful malts and there are

endless options to try, many from distilleries that are hundreds of

years old. Scots take their scotch whisky neat, with barely a half inch

in the glass. No rocks. No water. No cherries. Don’t even inquire.

STORY // SARAH GRIGGPHOTOS // SARAH GRIGG & CORIN SMITH

1716

RULE 3: DON’T CAST CACK-HANDED ON THE RIVER SPEY

Much like the days of the Salem Witch Trials, relying on your

left-hand can get you in a world of trouble. As a novice Spey

caster, I thought I would “get a hand up” so to speak, by asking

an experienced two-handed angler for a lesson prior to Scotland.

I pulled more, pushed less, through the Snap T, Double Spey and

Snake Roll. Proud of my small progressions, I decided to unveil

all I had learned on the Holiest of Holy Spey-Casting Rivers, the

River Spey, King Edward VIII’s preferred fi shing hole for years.

Standing on River Left, I got into position, left hand below,

right hand on top. I let the current carry my line taut and prepared

to form an anchor. “What’s this cack-handed nonsense,” Corin

asked before I could even lift the rod. “I’m going to attempt

a Double Spey,” I defended. “Not like that you aren’t.”

Sent back to square one, I spent the bulk of the morning learning

a proper Scottish two-handed cast—with the left hand above, right

hand below when standing on River Left, and vice versa on River

Right. Do yourself a favor and like a good Puritan, iron out any

cack-handed tendencies prior to stepping foot in Scottish waters.

RULE 4: READ THE TWEED MEMO

Anglers in Scotland may wear whatever fi shing attire they please

in most places, especially when loch fi shing. “You don’t have to

wear a tie or any of that bollocks,” notes Corin. But do consider

mixing some tweed into your angling wardrobe for fi shing on

rivers within formal estates. It can be a tweed hat, a tweed vest,

or tweed pants if you really want to give it a go. But for the love

of Queen Victoria, have some scrap of tweed on your person.

We met with Lawrence, a ghillie with 32 years of experience,

18 of those at Tulchan Lodge. Ghillies in Victorian sporting

culture were traditionally guides and loch or river keepers

on private estates. The role has changed over the years, but

much remains the same. Part of Lawrence’s job is to maintain

the grounds along the river and escort guests to beats.

He accompanied us along mowed paths to Beat 3 on the River

Spey, where spawning Atlantic salmon were breaching in gleeful belly

fl ops. Lawrence estimated that 80% of anglers here wore tweed of

some kind, stating, “We try to keep tradition, hence why we have

tweed suits. We avoid what you see on some of the beats where

they’re all decked out like Scandinavian anglers. I’m not saying that’s

a bad thing. I’m not putting Scandinavians down. They’re very good

anglers. We just want to keep our name, if you like, keep our name.”

“Am I dressed like a Scandinavian, Lawrence?” I asked, already

having a good idea of the answer. Lawrence looked over my fl eece

jacket, trucker hat, aviators, and waders as he hand-rolled a cigarette

and said, “Well...you look like a very contemporary angler.”

RULE 5: LESS IS MORE

Scottish anglers carry a little, but never much, of

anything—a handful of fl ies, a spool or two of mono, one rod

for multiple settings. They use less of everything than their

cowboy cousins across the pond when it comes to gear.

It’s not that they aren’t up-to-date on the latest and

greatest. It’s that they simply don’t care how the rest of

the world does it. They’ve been fi shing a long time and

they’ll carry on their traditions on their own terms.

Beyond the kitsch and cliché of tartans, shortbread, whisky, and

Braveheart, Scotland is a world-class destination and an amazing

place to try your hand at wild brown trout, sea trout and salmon that

have persisted in freshwater lochs, sea lochs and rivers for millennia.

And the Scots will be happy to show you the proper way of doing

things along the way... so long as you can hold your whisky.

1716

RULE 3: DON’T CAST CACK-HANDED ON THE RIVER SPEY

Much like the days of the Salem Witch Trials, relying on your

left-hand can get you in a world of trouble. As a novice Spey

caster, I thought I would “get a hand up” so to speak, by asking

an experienced two-handed angler for a lesson prior to Scotland.

I pulled more, pushed less, through the Snap T, Double Spey and

Snake Roll. Proud of my small progressions, I decided to unveil

all I had learned on the Holiest of Holy Spey-Casting Rivers, the

River Spey, King Edward VIII’s preferred fi shing hole for years.

Standing on River Left, I got into position, left hand below,

right hand on top. I let the current carry my line taut and prepared

to form an anchor. “What’s this cack-handed nonsense,” Corin

asked before I could even lift the rod. “I’m going to attempt

a Double Spey,” I defended. “Not like that you aren’t.”

Sent back to square one, I spent the bulk of the morning learning

a proper Scottish two-handed cast—with the left hand above, right

hand below when standing on River Left, and vice versa on River

Right. Do yourself a favor and like a good Puritan, iron out any

cack-handed tendencies prior to stepping foot in Scottish waters.

RULE 4: READ THE TWEED MEMO

Anglers in Scotland may wear whatever fi shing attire they please

in most places, especially when loch fi shing. “You don’t have to

wear a tie or any of that bollocks,” notes Corin. But do consider

mixing some tweed into your angling wardrobe for fi shing on

rivers within formal estates. It can be a tweed hat, a tweed vest,

or tweed pants if you really want to give it a go. But for the love

of Queen Victoria, have some scrap of tweed on your person.

We met with Lawrence, a ghillie with 32 years of experience,

18 of those at Tulchan Lodge. Ghillies in Victorian sporting

culture were traditionally guides and loch or river keepers

on private estates. The role has changed over the years, but

much remains the same. Part of Lawrence’s job is to maintain

the grounds along the river and escort guests to beats.

He accompanied us along mowed paths to Beat 3 on the River

Spey, where spawning Atlantic salmon were breaching in gleeful belly

fl ops. Lawrence estimated that 80% of anglers here wore tweed of

some kind, stating, “We try to keep tradition, hence why we have

tweed suits. We avoid what you see on some of the beats where

they’re all decked out like Scandinavian anglers. I’m not saying that’s

a bad thing. I’m not putting Scandinavians down. They’re very good

anglers. We just want to keep our name, if you like, keep our name.”

“Am I dressed like a Scandinavian, Lawrence?” I asked, already

having a good idea of the answer. Lawrence looked over my fl eece

jacket, trucker hat, aviators, and waders as he hand-rolled a cigarette

and said, “Well...you look like a very contemporary angler.”

RULE 5: LESS IS MORE

Scottish anglers carry a little, but never much, of

anything—a handful of fl ies, a spool or two of mono, one rod

for multiple settings. They use less of everything than their

cowboy cousins across the pond when it comes to gear.

It’s not that they aren’t up-to-date on the latest and

greatest. It’s that they simply don’t care how the rest of

the world does it. They’ve been fi shing a long time and

they’ll carry on their traditions on their own terms.

Beyond the kitsch and cliché of tartans, shortbread, whisky, and

Braveheart, Scotland is a world-class destination and an amazing

place to try your hand at wild brown trout, sea trout and salmon that

have persisted in freshwater lochs, sea lochs and rivers for millennia.

And the Scots will be happy to show you the proper way of doing

things along the way... so long as you can hold your whisky.

1918

BAJA OBSESSION

—

EVERY SO OFTEN AN EXPERIENCE COMES ALONG THAT ILLUMINATES A NEW PATH IN LIFE.

In my case, there were no rods or reels involved. No ocean in sight.

The kilo of scallops I bought in Mulege were the closest thing to a fi sh

within 50 miles. However, fi shing was part of the grand scheme. This

I can assure you.

Unhindered by the lights of cities or towns of any signifi cance,

the milky way stretched across the sky with brilliant clarity.

Hanging starkly in the midst of this curtain of countless stars

was, of all things, a comet. The curiously named, Hale-Bopp

Comet to be exact. It’s ghostly tail swept along behind the

glowing mountain of ice and dirt as it hurtled through the solar

system, creating a most impressive visage to say the least.

I was deep in the Sierra de la Giganta. At a ranch which in

all likelihood had existed there for well over 100 years. Tucked

into Mexican blankets on a homemade cow-hide cot, digesting

a belly full of the aforementioned scallops, I stared up into the

vastness of the universe. Enveloped by cool mountain air and

entranced by the comet: I was completely lost in time.

This moment could have been 1997; it could have been 1897. This

place was also timeless. This was escapism and adventure the likes

of which are rarely found in our modern world. My life was offi cially

redirected at that moment. I was gripped by the magnetic allure of

Baja California not unlike the comet on it's relentless trek around

the sun. In ancient Mexico, comets were considered portents of

disaster, or great change. The latter was defi nitely true in my case.

Great change took root in my mind. The idea of living in Baja

California Sur dominated my thoughts. By the time I had been

spellbound by the comet, I had already caught my fi rst fi sh on

the fl y in the Sea of Cortez. However, it would be a couple of

years before the ultimate watershed moment: when I caught my

fi rst roosterfi sh from the beach. It was approximately the size of

the palm of my hand. Like all roosters, it was a thing of beauty.

17 years later that fi rst pez gallo is still vivid in my memory.

For a die hard beach rat who cut his chops on the cold

shores of the Olympic Peninsula, that fi rst rooster was the

embodiment of all things warm and exotic. It was everything

I ever dreamed of while watching TV fi shing shows on rainy

Saturday mornings. It triggered the same sense of timeless

escapism I felt that night under the comet. My fascination with

the Baja Peninsula grew into all-encompassing obsession.

Fast forward a few years. The transition was well under way.

Courtesy of Baja fl y fi shing pioneer Gary Graham, I found myself

stationed at his beachfront home on the Sea of Cortez for months on

end. It was the turn of the 21st century yet somehow the unspoiled

beaches of the East Cape and the angling opportunities they harbored

were virtually unknown to most of the fl y fi shing world. The number

of beach anglers who really knew the ways of the ever mysterious

rooster could be counted on one hand, with fi ngers to spare.

I certainly wasn't one of those anglers. However, I was

determined to emulate them. I could think of nothing more

important than laying hands on my fi rst big roosterfi sh. Not

palm sized. Not a 10 pounder. Rather, a proper “Grande” of

25 pounds or more. I set myself to relentless hunting and

unfettered experimentation. It was a special time and place

indeed. The beaches were largely devoid of anglers, dense shoals

of sardina still hugged the shores, and the fi shing was excellent.

Trophy caliber pez gallo were nonetheless diffi cult to feed.

They were common but they still behaved like roosters: masters

of what a well-known angler would later dub “ER”—Encouraging

Refusals. Encouraged beyond words, my wife and I sold everything

we owned and raced southward in my trusty old Toyota truck to

begin a new life of total immersion in the world of pez gallo.

Innumerable “comb ups” and near misses paved the road to

enlightenment. In a rather comical coincidence, I landed my fi rst

grande on a sunny Cinco de Mayo, Mexico’s most well known holiday

which celebrates a military victory over the French in 1862. My fi rst

successful bout with the epitome of my wildest angling fantasies was

not a victory per se. Defi nitely a milestone, but victory implies struggle

against an adversary. The roosterfi sh has never been an adversary.

To the contrary, I hold them in the highest esteem. Much like a

star-struck fan seeking an autograph from a favorite celebrity—I’m

a full blown rooster geek, willing to stand in the scorching sun for

hours on end simply to catch a glimpse of nematistius pectoralis.

Nearly two decades and many thousands of beach hours later,

the thrill of the hunt has not even remotely worn off. Baja remains

epic. I’m still every bit as stoked to put in my time, scouring

the water for the combed apparition. Some have likened it to

mental illness. Frankly, they might be right. I prefer to consider it

damning evidence of a misspent youth. Or, a properly spent youth

as the case may be. In either case, I blame the comet.

STORY & PHOTOS // LANCE PETERSON

1918

BAJA OBSESSION

—

EVERY SO OFTEN AN EXPERIENCE COMES ALONG THAT ILLUMINATES A NEW PATH IN LIFE.

In my case, there were no rods or reels involved. No ocean in sight.

The kilo of scallops I bought in Mulege were the closest thing to a fi sh

within 50 miles. However, fi shing was part of the grand scheme. This

I can assure you.

Unhindered by the lights of cities or towns of any signifi cance,

the milky way stretched across the sky with brilliant clarity.

Hanging starkly in the midst of this curtain of countless stars

was, of all things, a comet. The curiously named, Hale-Bopp

Comet to be exact. It’s ghostly tail swept along behind the

glowing mountain of ice and dirt as it hurtled through the solar

system, creating a most impressive visage to say the least.

I was deep in the Sierra de la Giganta. At a ranch which in

all likelihood had existed there for well over 100 years. Tucked

into Mexican blankets on a homemade cow-hide cot, digesting

a belly full of the aforementioned scallops, I stared up into the

vastness of the universe. Enveloped by cool mountain air and

entranced by the comet: I was completely lost in time.

This moment could have been 1997; it could have been 1897. This

place was also timeless. This was escapism and adventure the likes

of which are rarely found in our modern world. My life was offi cially

redirected at that moment. I was gripped by the magnetic allure of

Baja California not unlike the comet on it's relentless trek around

the sun. In ancient Mexico, comets were considered portents of

disaster, or great change. The latter was defi nitely true in my case.

Great change took root in my mind. The idea of living in Baja

California Sur dominated my thoughts. By the time I had been

spellbound by the comet, I had already caught my fi rst fi sh on

the fl y in the Sea of Cortez. However, it would be a couple of

years before the ultimate watershed moment: when I caught my

fi rst roosterfi sh from the beach. It was approximately the size of

the palm of my hand. Like all roosters, it was a thing of beauty.

17 years later that fi rst pez gallo is still vivid in my memory.

For a die hard beach rat who cut his chops on the cold

shores of the Olympic Peninsula, that fi rst rooster was the

embodiment of all things warm and exotic. It was everything

I ever dreamed of while watching TV fi shing shows on rainy

Saturday mornings. It triggered the same sense of timeless

escapism I felt that night under the comet. My fascination with

the Baja Peninsula grew into all-encompassing obsession.

Fast forward a few years. The transition was well under way.

Courtesy of Baja fl y fi shing pioneer Gary Graham, I found myself

stationed at his beachfront home on the Sea of Cortez for months on

end. It was the turn of the 21st century yet somehow the unspoiled

beaches of the East Cape and the angling opportunities they harbored

were virtually unknown to most of the fl y fi shing world. The number

of beach anglers who really knew the ways of the ever mysterious

rooster could be counted on one hand, with fi ngers to spare.

I certainly wasn't one of those anglers. However, I was

determined to emulate them. I could think of nothing more

important than laying hands on my fi rst big roosterfi sh. Not

palm sized. Not a 10 pounder. Rather, a proper “Grande” of

25 pounds or more. I set myself to relentless hunting and

unfettered experimentation. It was a special time and place

indeed. The beaches were largely devoid of anglers, dense shoals

of sardina still hugged the shores, and the fi shing was excellent.

Trophy caliber pez gallo were nonetheless diffi cult to feed.

They were common but they still behaved like roosters: masters

of what a well-known angler would later dub “ER”—Encouraging

Refusals. Encouraged beyond words, my wife and I sold everything

we owned and raced southward in my trusty old Toyota truck to

begin a new life of total immersion in the world of pez gallo.

Innumerable “comb ups” and near misses paved the road to

enlightenment. In a rather comical coincidence, I landed my fi rst

grande on a sunny Cinco de Mayo, Mexico’s most well known holiday

which celebrates a military victory over the French in 1862. My fi rst

successful bout with the epitome of my wildest angling fantasies was

not a victory per se. Defi nitely a milestone, but victory implies struggle

against an adversary. The roosterfi sh has never been an adversary.

To the contrary, I hold them in the highest esteem. Much like a

star-struck fan seeking an autograph from a favorite celebrity—I’m

a full blown rooster geek, willing to stand in the scorching sun for

hours on end simply to catch a glimpse of nematistius pectoralis.

Nearly two decades and many thousands of beach hours later,

the thrill of the hunt has not even remotely worn off. Baja remains

epic. I’m still every bit as stoked to put in my time, scouring

the water for the combed apparition. Some have likened it to

mental illness. Frankly, they might be right. I prefer to consider it

damning evidence of a misspent youth. Or, a properly spent youth

as the case may be. In either case, I blame the comet.

STORY & PHOTOS // LANCE PETERSON

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

21

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

20

ONE FRAME, TWO SPOOLS—ULTIMATE VERSATILITY. The 3–12 Plus Finatic reels are offered in both large and mid arbor confi gurations.Both spools can run on the same frame, allowing anglers to run three or more line weights on a single reel.Both spools can run on the same frame, allowing anglers to run three or more line weights on a single reel.

A R E YO U A F I N AT I C ?

1 PLUS FINATIC—FISHING WITH 0–2 WEIGHT RODS REQUIRES A DELICATE BALANCE BETWEEN ROD AND REELin order to create harmonious bliss. Achieving thiscritical ratio makes the 1 Plus a must-have for anyserious creeky angler.

REEL $350 // SPOOL $158

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

2.9" 0.85" 2.8 oz. 0–2 MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

21

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

20

ONE FRAME, TWO SPOOLS—ULTIMATE VERSATILITY. The 3–12 Plus Finatic reels are offered in both large and mid arbor confi gurations.Both spools can run on the same frame, allowing anglers to run three or more line weights on a single reel.Both spools can run on the same frame, allowing anglers to run three or more line weights on a single reel.

A R E YO U A F I N AT I C ?

1 PLUS FINATIC—FISHING WITH 0–2 WEIGHT RODS REQUIRES A DELICATE BALANCE BETWEEN ROD AND REELin order to create harmonious bliss. Achieving thiscritical ratio makes the 1 Plus a must-have for anyserious creeky angler.

REEL $350 // SPOOL $158

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

2.9" 0.85" 2.8 oz. 0–2 MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

23

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

22

2 PLUS FINATIC—COMBINING THE LIGHT WEIGHT OF THE 1 PLUS WITH DRAG POWER SIMILAR TO THE 3 PLUS, the 2 Plus creates the ultimate dry fl y trout reel for 2- to 3-weight rods. We’ve also used it on ultra light 4-weight rods with great success.

REEL $380 // SPOOL $170

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.0" .875" 3.7 oz. 2–4 LARGE ARBOR

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

4 PLUS FINATIC—THE PERFECT WESTERN TROUT FISHING REEL, the 4 Plus is capable of running 4-, 5-, and 6-weight lines with ease. If you can only buy one reel to use for both dry and nymph fi shing then this is the one.

REEL $450 // SPOOL $190

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.425" .90" 5.6 oz. 4–6 LARGE + MID ARBOR

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

3 PLUS FINATIC—THIS IS THE PERFECT REEL TO ACCOMPANY YOUR FAVORITE 4-WEIGHT DRY FLY ROD, or you can rig it with WF5F on the mid arbor spool for a lightweight 5-weight alternative. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with the 3 Plus.

REEL $400 // SPOOL $175

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.25" .825" 5.3 oz. 3–5 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.625" .9375" 6.5 oz. 5–7 LARGE + MID ARBOR

5 PLUS FINATIC—WHEN THE FISH GET A LITTLE BIGGER AND HARDER TO HANDLE, THIS IS THE PERFECT REEL—whether streamer fi shing or hucking big drys at 20" plus fi sh. Italso serves double duty as a lightweight 6- or 7-weight setup for stalking bones on the fl ats.

REEL $500 // SPOOL $205

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

23

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

22

2 PLUS FINATIC—COMBINING THE LIGHT WEIGHT OF THE 1 PLUS WITH DRAG POWER SIMILAR TO THE 3 PLUS, the 2 Plus creates the ultimate dry fl y trout reel for 2- to 3-weight rods. We’ve also used it on ultra light 4-weight rods with great success.

REEL $380 // SPOOL $170

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.0" .875" 3.7 oz. 2–4 LARGE ARBOR

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

4 PLUS FINATIC—THE PERFECT WESTERN TROUT FISHING REEL, the 4 Plus is capable of running 4-, 5-, and 6-weight lines with ease. If you can only buy one reel to use for both dry and nymph fi shing then this is the one.

REEL $450 // SPOOL $190

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.425" .90" 5.6 oz. 4–6 LARGE + MID ARBOR

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

3 PLUS FINATIC—THIS IS THE PERFECT REEL TO ACCOMPANY YOUR FAVORITE 4-WEIGHT DRY FLY ROD, or you can rig it with WF5F on the mid arbor spool for a lightweight 5-weight alternative. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with the 3 Plus.

REEL $400 // SPOOL $175

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.25" .825" 5.3 oz. 3–5 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

3.625" .9375" 6.5 oz. 5–7 LARGE + MID ARBOR

5 PLUS FINATIC—WHEN THE FISH GET A LITTLE BIGGER AND HARDER TO HANDLE, THIS IS THE PERFECT REEL—whether streamer fi shing or hucking big drys at 20" plus fi sh. Italso serves double duty as a lightweight 6- or 7-weight setup for stalking bones on the fl ats.

REEL $500 // SPOOL $205

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

25

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

24

9 PLUS FINATIC—CAPABLE OF RUNNING 9–11 WEIGHT LINES AND YOUR CHOICE OF MID OR LARGE ARBOR SPOOLS, this reel is one versatile hombre. If you are truly serious about saltwater or spey fi shing then this is your next reel.

REEL $750 // SPOOL $350

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.25" 1.375" 10.6 oz. 9–11 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

5.0" 1.6875" 15.6 oz. 12–16 LARGE + MID ARBOR

12 PLUS FINATIC—DESIGNED FOR FISH THAT ARE NOTORIOUS FOR BEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GTsBEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GTsBEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GT OR TUNA,to name a few. You will not fi nd a better fi sh-fi ghtingtool on the market for these situations and it’s alsogreat for big spey applications.

REEL $900 // SPOOL $400

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

7 PLUS FINATIC—IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND HAD ONLY ONE REEL TO BRING IT SHOULD BE THE 7 PLUS. It’s the perfect crossover reel for both salt and fresh water fl y fi shing. From bonefi sh to permit or steelhead to carp, this reel has you covered.

REEL $600 // SPOOL $225

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.0" 1.125" 8.6 oz. 7–9 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

11 PLUS FINATIC—WE HAD ONE THING IN MIND WHEN WE DESIGNED THIS REEL: TARPON. Bridging the gap between the 9 and 12 Plus models, an oversized handle provides greater grip control and the mid arbor option is great for spey rods from 13.5–14.5 feet.

REEL $825 // SPOOL $375

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.625" 1.5" 11.1 oz. 11–12 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

25

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

24

9 PLUS FINATIC—CAPABLE OF RUNNING 9–11 WEIGHT LINES AND YOUR CHOICE OF MID OR LARGE ARBOR SPOOLS, this reel is one versatile hombre. If you are truly serious about saltwater or spey fi shing then this is your next reel.

REEL $750 // SPOOL $350

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.25" 1.375" 10.6 oz. 9–11 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

5.0" 1.6875" 15.6 oz. 12–16 LARGE + MID ARBOR

12 PLUS FINATIC—DESIGNED FOR FISH THAT ARE NOTORIOUS FOR BEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GTsBEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GTsBEING REALLY HARD TO HANDLE—GT OR TUNA,to name a few. You will not fi nd a better fi sh-fi ghtingtool on the market for these situations and it’s alsogreat for big spey applications.

REEL $900 // SPOOL $400

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

7 PLUS FINATIC—IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERT ISLAND AND HAD ONLY ONE REEL TO BRING IT SHOULD BE THE 7 PLUS. It’s the perfect crossover reel for both salt and fresh water fl y fi shing. From bonefi sh to permit or steelhead to carp, this reel has you covered.

REEL $600 // SPOOL $225

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.0" 1.125" 8.6 oz. 7–9 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

11 PLUS FINATIC—WE HAD ONE THING IN MIND WHEN WE DESIGNED THIS REEL: TARPON. Bridging the gap between the 9 and 12 Plus models, an oversized handle provides greater grip control and the mid arbor option is great for spey rods from 13.5–14.5 feet.

REEL $825 // SPOOL $375

DIAMETER WIDTH WEIGHT LINES SPOOLS

4.625" 1.5" 11.1 oz. 11–12 LARGE + MID ARBOR

REEL COLORS

CLEAR / RED CLEAR / BLUE CLEAR / GREEN

CLEAR / BLACK BLACK / SILVER

FOR COMPLETE REEL SPECS, SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

2726

A C

D

E

G

H

DESIGN FEATURES—

A // MACHINED FINISHWe don’t polish our reels. No buff outs or cover-ups. You can see the witness marks and quality machining. Its more diffi cult,

and takes more time, but it’s worth it.

B // FRAME /SPOOL CONNECTIONMaking a positive frame-to-spool connection is essential. Our

“power fl ower” design feature locks both together creating a bomb-proof fi t.

C // MACHINED REEL SE ATA single solid is stronger than two pieces, and by eliminating

the screws you’ve eliminated the corrosion points.

D // CRANKS & COUNTERBAL ANCEUnlike many manufacturers whose counterbalance is merely cosmetic, we’ve made the two pieces the same weight to

achieve true balance in the spool.

E // DIMENSION IN THE FRAMEIncreased rigidity, strength, and reduced lateral fl ex. With the reel and spool together you get virtually no lateral fl ex when you push/pull the two. This means the reel tracks truer and it

eliminates the spool wobbling in high-speed runs.

F // HOOK GUARDKeep those hooks tucked into the arbor of the reel and out of

the way of your hands.

G // SPOOL TENSION NUTEasily taken on and off, with or without full gloves. The nut is press-fi t into the spool so it won’t fall out into the water or your

gear bag.

H // DRAGA multi-disc drag cassette comprised of Rulon® and precision stamped stainless steel discs is employed in all models. With a multi-disc drag, you are applying braking pressure and heat dispersion over several surfaces. This virtually eliminates start

up inertia and stick-slip problems.

F

B

2726

A C

D

E

G

H

DESIGN FEATURES—

A // MACHINED FINISHWe don’t polish our reels. No buff outs or cover-ups. You can see the witness marks and quality machining. Its more diffi cult,

and takes more time, but it’s worth it.

B // FRAME /SPOOL CONNECTIONMaking a positive frame-to-spool connection is essential. Our

“power fl ower” design feature locks both together creating a bomb-proof fi t.

C // MACHINED REEL SE ATA single solid is stronger than two pieces, and by eliminating

the screws you’ve eliminated the corrosion points.

D // CRANKS & COUNTERBAL ANCEUnlike many manufacturers whose counterbalance is merely cosmetic, we’ve made the two pieces the same weight to

achieve true balance in the spool.

E // DIMENSION IN THE FRAMEIncreased rigidity, strength, and reduced lateral fl ex. With the reel and spool together you get virtually no lateral fl ex when you push/pull the two. This means the reel tracks truer and it

eliminates the spool wobbling in high-speed runs.

F // HOOK GUARDKeep those hooks tucked into the arbor of the reel and out of

the way of your hands.

G // SPOOL TENSION NUTEasily taken on and off, with or without full gloves. The nut is press-fi t into the spool so it won’t fall out into the water or your

gear bag.

H // DRAGA multi-disc drag cassette comprised of Rulon® and precision stamped stainless steel discs is employed in all models. With a multi-disc drag, you are applying braking pressure and heat dispersion over several surfaces. This virtually eliminates start

up inertia and stick-slip problems.

F

B

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

29

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

28

NOMAD PLIERS—THE I-BEAM ARMS ARE CRAFTED FROM 6061-T6 ALUMINUM AND PROTECTED WITH TYPE II ANODIZE. The cutters are made from tungsten carbide for abrasion resistance and reliable cuts through all fi shing line material. The jaws are machined from 17-4 stainless steel made for ultimate corrosion resistance. Nomad Pliers come with a custom Hatch bungee lanyard and black leather sheath.

$300

HATCH NIPPERS—THE HATCH NIPPER IS CRAFTED FROM 6061-T6 ALUMINUM AND PROTECTED WITH TYPE II ANODIZE. The replaceable cutters are made from tungsten carbide for abrasion resistance and reliable cuts through mono and fl uorocarbon materials. Hatch Nippers come with a handmade paracord lanyard.

$100

LENGTH WIDTH WEIGHT COLORS

6.25" 2.0" (CLOSED) 4.2 oz RED, CLEAR, BLUE

LENGTH WEIGHT COLORS

2" 0.8 oz CLEAR, BLUE, RED, BLACK

STAINLESS STEEL BOTTLE OPENER

BLACKLEATHERSHEATH

MACHINED LANYARD ATTACHMENT

REPLACEABLE BLADES AND JAWS

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

29

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

28

NOMAD PLIERS—THE I-BEAM ARMS ARE CRAFTED FROM 6061-T6 ALUMINUM AND PROTECTED WITH TYPE II ANODIZE. The cutters are made from tungsten carbide for abrasion resistance and reliable cuts through all fi shing line material. The jaws are machined from 17-4 stainless steel made for ultimate corrosion resistance. Nomad Pliers come with a custom Hatch bungee lanyard and black leather sheath.

$300

HATCH NIPPERS—THE HATCH NIPPER IS CRAFTED FROM 6061-T6 ALUMINUM AND PROTECTED WITH TYPE II ANODIZE. The replaceable cutters are made from tungsten carbide for abrasion resistance and reliable cuts through mono and fl uorocarbon materials. Hatch Nippers come with a handmade paracord lanyard.

$100

LENGTH WIDTH WEIGHT COLORS

6.25" 2.0" (CLOSED) 4.2 oz RED, CLEAR, BLUE

LENGTH WEIGHT COLORS

2" 0.8 oz CLEAR, BLUE, RED, BLACK

STAINLESS STEEL BOTTLE OPENER

BLACKLEATHERSHEATH

MACHINED LANYARD ATTACHMENT

REPLACEABLE BLADES AND JAWS

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

31

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

30

CROSS SECTION OF HATCH PE

HATCH PREMIUMBRAIDED BACKING—THE TOUCH AND FEEL OF DACRON® COMBINED WITH THE STRENGTH AND DIAMETER OF GEL SPUN in a single 8-braid polyethylene (PE) line. These lines are smaller in diameter and greater in strength when compared to traditional backing materials. They have greater abrasion resistance, are UV resistant, tie lower profi le knots, provide less drag through the water, and are capable of lasting a lifetime.

FROM $29

KNOTTENSION TOOL—THE ULTIMATE HATCH MULTI-TOOL. A knot tensioner, bottle opener, gas cap opener & ass kicking device all rolled into one. Each Knot Tension Tool comes with a paracord wrist lanyard.

$40

100M 200M 400M 1200M 3000M

DIAMETER .018" / .45 mm

STRENGTH 68 lb / 30.8 kg

PRICE $29 $53 $100 $293 $700

LENGTH WEIGHT COLORS

4.3" 1.6 oz CLEAR/RED

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

31

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

30

CROSS SECTION OF HATCH PE

HATCH PREMIUMBRAIDED BACKING—THE TOUCH AND FEEL OF DACRON® COMBINED WITH THE STRENGTH AND DIAMETER OF GEL SPUN in a single 8-braid polyethylene (PE) line. These lines are smaller in diameter and greater in strength when compared to traditional backing materials. They have greater abrasion resistance, are UV resistant, tie lower profi le knots, provide less drag through the water, and are capable of lasting a lifetime.

FROM $29

KNOTTENSION TOOL—THE ULTIMATE HATCH MULTI-TOOL. A knot tensioner, bottle opener, gas cap opener & ass kicking device all rolled into one. Each Knot Tension Tool comes with a paracord wrist lanyard.

$40

100M 200M 400M 1200M 3000M

DIAMETER .018" / .45 mm

STRENGTH 68 lb / 30.8 kg

PRICE $29 $53 $100 $293 $700

LENGTH WEIGHT COLORS

4.3" 1.6 oz CLEAR/RED

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

33

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

32

TROPICAL FLOATING SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO TO OUR DESIGN SPECS,

our fl oating lines cast their specifi c weight class with ease,

eliminating the need for species specifi c lines. Simply

purchase the appropriate line weight for your fl y outfi t and

use in any tropical location.

$80

TROPICAL INTERMEDIATE SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO TO OUR SPECIFIC

DESIGN AND SPANNING 10WT THROUGH 12WT,

our focused range helps the angler dial in their saltwater rigs

specifi cally for big fl ats fi sh. An all purpose taper punches

easily through the wind to deliver the fl y at a 1.5 IPS sink rate.

$80

TROPICAL SINKING SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO, OUR SINK TIP LINES

FEATURE FAST SINKING HEADS WITH INTERMEDIATE

running lines. Loaded with tungsten weight and evenly

distributed for a gradual fall helps the fl y angler stay in close

touch with their fl y even at great depths. New for 2017, 250G,

300G, and 350G sinking lines are the perfect matchup with

6–8 wt. rods.

$85

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE CORE LENGTH COLOR

WF7F–WF9F 28# BRAIDED POWERCORE 100' SAND TAN / TURTLE GRASS

WF10F–WF12F 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' SAND TAN / TURTLE GRASS

TROPICALFLOATINGSALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE CORE LENGTH COLOR

WF10I-WF12I 1.5 IPS 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' AQUA / GHOST GRAY

TROPICALINTERMEDIATESALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE (TIP) SINK RATE (INT) CORE LENGTH COLOR

250G 6.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' LT BLUE / DK GRAY

300G 7.0 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' LT GRAY / DK GRAY

350G 7.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' CHARTREUSE / DK GRAY

TROPICALSINKINGSALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE (TIP) SINK RATE (INT) CORE LENGTH COLOR

400G 7.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' CYAN / DK GRAY

500G 8.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 50# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' YELLOW / DK GRAY

650G 10.0 IPS 1.5 IPS 50# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' GREEN / DK GRAY

WEIGHT 7–12

WEIGHT 10–12

WEIGHT 250G, 300G, 350G, 400G, 500G, 650G

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

33

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

32

TROPICAL FLOATING SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO TO OUR DESIGN SPECS,

our fl oating lines cast their specifi c weight class with ease,

eliminating the need for species specifi c lines. Simply

purchase the appropriate line weight for your fl y outfi t and

use in any tropical location.

$80

TROPICAL INTERMEDIATE SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO TO OUR SPECIFIC

DESIGN AND SPANNING 10WT THROUGH 12WT,

our focused range helps the angler dial in their saltwater rigs

specifi cally for big fl ats fi sh. An all purpose taper punches

easily through the wind to deliver the fl y at a 1.5 IPS sink rate.

$80

TROPICAL SINKING SALTWATER FLY LINE—

MANUFACTURED BY BVG-AIRFLO, OUR SINK TIP LINES

FEATURE FAST SINKING HEADS WITH INTERMEDIATE

running lines. Loaded with tungsten weight and evenly

distributed for a gradual fall helps the fl y angler stay in close

touch with their fl y even at great depths. New for 2017, 250G,

300G, and 350G sinking lines are the perfect matchup with

6–8 wt. rods.

$85

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE CORE LENGTH COLOR

WF7F–WF9F 28# BRAIDED POWERCORE 100' SAND TAN / TURTLE GRASS

WF10F–WF12F 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' SAND TAN / TURTLE GRASS

TROPICALFLOATINGSALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE CORE LENGTH COLOR

WF10I-WF12I 1.5 IPS 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' AQUA / GHOST GRAY

TROPICALINTERMEDIATESALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE (TIP) SINK RATE (INT) CORE LENGTH COLOR

250G 6.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' LT BLUE / DK GRAY

300G 7.0 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' LT GRAY / DK GRAY

350G 7.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 30# BRAIDED POWERCORE 110' CHARTREUSE / DK GRAY

TROPICALSINKINGSALTWATERFLY LINE

72’8’23’6’1’

62’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF7F–WF9F

WF10F–WF12F

72’8’23’6’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

WF10I–WF12I

120’1’23’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

400G

500G

650G

70’10’24’5’1’

RUNNINGLINE

REARTAPER

BELLYFRONTTAPER

TIP

250G

300G

350G

SIZE SINK RATE (TIP) SINK RATE (INT) CORE LENGTH COLOR

400G 7.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 40# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' CYAN / DK GRAY

500G 8.5 IPS 1.5 IPS 50# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' YELLOW / DK GRAY

650G 10.0 IPS 1.5 IPS 50# BRAIDED POWERCORE 150' GREEN / DK GRAY

WEIGHT 7–12

WEIGHT 10–12

WEIGHT 250G, 300G, 350G, 400G, 500G, 650G

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

35

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

34

PRO SALTWATER SERIESSHOCK TIPPET—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE

FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Shock Tippet has a consistent

diameter and advanced abrasion resistance. The superior strength,

low memory, soft texture, and durability of our Shock Tippet

makes it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIES MONOFILAMENT LEADER —

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE OF

NYLON MONOFILAMENT AVAILABLE, Hatch monofi lament

is given a proprietary surface treatment to provide reliable

diameter measurements, smooth texture, and enhanced UV

protection. The superior knot strength, excellent presentation,

and durability of our Monofi lament Leader Material makes

it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIESLEADER—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE

FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Leader has a consistent diameter,

varying less than half the width of a human hair! The superior

strength, low memory, soft texture, and durability of our Leader

material makes it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIESTAPERED LEADER—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST

GRADE FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our leaders

have low memory, high abrasion resistance, a hand-

tied perfection loop, and consistent diameter. Every

Hatch tapered leader is designed to make a superior

presentation to your next targeted fi sh on the fl ats.

$13

PRO SALTWATER SERIESTIPPET—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN COMBINING TWO OF THE BEST

GRADES OF FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Saltwater Tippet has

a consistent diameter through the entire length, superior strength,

low memory, and durability to make a reliable connection to the fl y.

$22

LENGTH WEIGHT (LB)

9FT 8, 10, 12, 16, 20

SPOOL WEIGHT (LB)

25M 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25

25M SPOOL 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB

PRICE $28 $32 $40 $48

50M SPOOL 20LB 25LB 30LB 40LB 50LB 60LB

PRICE $15 $15 $15 $15 $20 $20

50M SPOOL 30LB 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB

PRICE $38 $50 $58 $70 $82

2 0 1 7 A N G L E R ’ S A N N U A L

35

H AT C H O U T D O O R S

34

PRO SALTWATER SERIESSHOCK TIPPET—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE

FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Shock Tippet has a consistent

diameter and advanced abrasion resistance. The superior strength,

low memory, soft texture, and durability of our Shock Tippet

makes it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIES MONOFILAMENT LEADER —

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE OF

NYLON MONOFILAMENT AVAILABLE, Hatch monofi lament

is given a proprietary surface treatment to provide reliable

diameter measurements, smooth texture, and enhanced UV

protection. The superior knot strength, excellent presentation,

and durability of our Monofi lament Leader Material makes

it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIESLEADER—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST GRADE

FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Leader has a consistent diameter,

varying less than half the width of a human hair! The superior

strength, low memory, soft texture, and durability of our Leader

material makes it the ultimate choice for your big game leaders.

PRO SALTWATER SERIESTAPERED LEADER—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN USING THE HIGHEST

GRADE FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our leaders

have low memory, high abrasion resistance, a hand-

tied perfection loop, and consistent diameter. Every

Hatch tapered leader is designed to make a superior

presentation to your next targeted fi sh on the fl ats.

$13

PRO SALTWATER SERIESTIPPET—

MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN COMBINING TWO OF THE BEST

GRADES OF FLUOROCARBON AVAILABLE, our Saltwater Tippet has

a consistent diameter through the entire length, superior strength,

low memory, and durability to make a reliable connection to the fl y.

$22

LENGTH WEIGHT (LB)

9FT 8, 10, 12, 16, 20

SPOOL WEIGHT (LB)

25M 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25

25M SPOOL 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB

PRICE $28 $32 $40 $48

50M SPOOL 20LB 25LB 30LB 40LB 50LB 60LB

PRICE $15 $15 $15 $15 $20 $20

50M SPOOL 30LB 40LB 50LB 60LB 80LB

PRICE $38 $50 $58 $70 $82

36

1 PLUS 2 PLUS 3 PLUS 4 PLUS 5 PLUS 7 PLUS 9 PLUS 11 PLUS 12 PLUS

DIAMETER 2.9" 3.0" 3.25" 3.425" 3.625" 4.0" 4.25" 4.625" 5.0"

WIDTH .85" .875" .825" .90" .9375" 1.125" 1.375" 1.50" 1.6875"

WEIGHT 2.8 oz 3.7 oz 5.3 oz 5.6 oz 6.5 oz 8.6 oz 10.6 oz 11.1 oz 15.6 oz

LINE WEIGHT 0–2 2–4 3–5 4–6 5–7 7–9 9–11 11–12 12–16

SPOOLS MIDARBOR

LARGEARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

20# DACRONBACKING(YARDS)

LA:WF0F-60,WF1F-50,WF2F-40

LA:WF2F-70,WF3F-60,WF4F-50

LA:WF3F-110,WF4F-100,WF5F-80

MA:WF4F-130,WF5F-115

LA:WF5F-100,WF6F-80

MA:WF5F-160,WF6F-130

LA:WF5F-130,WF6F-110,WF7F-100

MA:WF5F-200,WF6F-180,WF7F-160

LA:WF7F-220,WF8F-210,WF9F-200

MA:WF7F-280,WF8F-270,WF9F-260

— — —

30# DACRONBACKING(YARDS)

— — — — — — LA:WF9F-285,WF10F-240,WF11F-205

MA:WF9F-360,WF10F-335,WF11F-300

LA:WF11F-275,WF12F-250

MA:WF11F-425,WF12F-400

—

HATCH PREMIUMBACKING(YARDS)

LA:WF0F-70,WF1F-60,WF2F-50

LA:WF2F-80,WF3F-70,WF4F-60

LA:WF3F-118,WF4F-108,WF5F-86

MA:WF4F-140,WF5F-124

LA:WF5F-110,WF6F-88

MA:WF5F-150,WF6F-120

LA:WF5F-120,WF6F-100,WF7F-180

MA:WF5F-160,WF6F-140,WF7F-120

LA:WF7F-300,WF8F-275,WF9F-250

MA:WF7F-375,WF8F-350,WF9F-325

LA:WF9F-300,WF10F-275,WF11F-250

MA:WF9F-400,WF10F-375,WF11F-350

LA:WF11F-350,WF12F-300

MA:WF11F-500,WF12F-450

LA:WF12F-450

MA:WF12F-1000

PROTECTION ALL HATCH REELS ARE PROTECTED WITH A TYPE 2 ANODIZE FINISH

COLORS CLEAR / RED, CLEAR / BLUE, CLEAR / GREEN, CLEAR / BLACK, BLACK / SILVER

hatchoutdoors.com

Hatch-Premium Fly Fishing Reels

@HatchHoncho

hatchoutdoors

HATCH OUTDOORS, INC.

1001 Park Center Drive

Vista, California 92081

info@hatchoutdoors.com

+1 877 634 4343 Toll Free

+1 760 734 4343 Tel

+1 760 734 4344 Fax

DEALER INQUIRIES //

Hatch is always looking for quality dealers to

help promote our reels and products around

the world. dealers@hatchoutdoors.com

WARRANTY //

Hatch reels are carefully inspected to assure

product consistency and quality and are

guaranteed against manufacturer’s defects

in materials and craftsmanship for the

life of the product by its original owner.

PHOTOGS //

Jim Klug, Jim Harris, Jeremie Hollman, Chris

Peterson, Colorblind Media, Lacey Kelly,

Sarah Grigg, Corin Smith, Lance Peterson,

Brett Seng, Bryan Gregson, and John Torok

FINATIC REELSSPECIFICATIONS—

36

1 PLUS 2 PLUS 3 PLUS 4 PLUS 5 PLUS 7 PLUS 9 PLUS 11 PLUS 12 PLUS

DIAMETER 2.9" 3.0" 3.25" 3.425" 3.625" 4.0" 4.25" 4.625" 5.0"

WIDTH .85" .875" .825" .90" .9375" 1.125" 1.375" 1.50" 1.6875"

WEIGHT 2.8 oz 3.7 oz 5.3 oz 5.6 oz 6.5 oz 8.6 oz 10.6 oz 11.1 oz 15.6 oz

LINE WEIGHT 0–2 2–4 3–5 4–6 5–7 7–9 9–11 11–12 12–16

SPOOLS MIDARBOR

LARGEARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

LARGE + MID ARBOR

20# DACRONBACKING(YARDS)

LA:WF0F-60,WF1F-50,WF2F-40

LA:WF2F-70,WF3F-60,WF4F-50

LA:WF3F-110,WF4F-100,WF5F-80

MA:WF4F-130,WF5F-115

LA:WF5F-100,WF6F-80

MA:WF5F-160,WF6F-130

LA:WF5F-130,WF6F-110,WF7F-100

MA:WF5F-200,WF6F-180,WF7F-160

LA:WF7F-220,WF8F-210,WF9F-200

MA:WF7F-280,WF8F-270,WF9F-260

— — —

30# DACRONBACKING(YARDS)

— — — — — — LA:WF9F-285,WF10F-240,WF11F-205

MA:WF9F-360,WF10F-335,WF11F-300

LA:WF11F-275,WF12F-250

MA:WF11F-425,WF12F-400

—

HATCH PREMIUMBACKING(YARDS)

LA:WF0F-70,WF1F-60,WF2F-50

LA:WF2F-80,WF3F-70,WF4F-60

LA:WF3F-118,WF4F-108,WF5F-86

MA:WF4F-140,WF5F-124

LA:WF5F-110,WF6F-88

MA:WF5F-150,WF6F-120

LA:WF5F-120,WF6F-100,WF7F-180

MA:WF5F-160,WF6F-140,WF7F-120

LA:WF7F-300,WF8F-275,WF9F-250

MA:WF7F-375,WF8F-350,WF9F-325

LA:WF9F-300,WF10F-275,WF11F-250

MA:WF9F-400,WF10F-375,WF11F-350

LA:WF11F-350,WF12F-300

MA:WF11F-500,WF12F-450

LA:WF12F-450

MA:WF12F-1000

PROTECTION ALL HATCH REELS ARE PROTECTED WITH A TYPE 2 ANODIZE FINISH

COLORS CLEAR / RED, CLEAR / BLUE, CLEAR / GREEN, CLEAR / BLACK, BLACK / SILVER

hatchoutdoors.com

Hatch-Premium Fly Fishing Reels

@HatchHoncho

hatchoutdoors

HATCH OUTDOORS, INC.

1001 Park Center Drive

Vista, California 92081

info@hatchoutdoors.com

+1 877 634 4343 Toll Free

+1 760 734 4343 Tel

+1 760 734 4344 Fax

DEALER INQUIRIES //

Hatch is always looking for quality dealers to

help promote our reels and products around

the world. dealers@hatchoutdoors.com

WARRANTY //

Hatch reels are carefully inspected to assure

product consistency and quality and are

guaranteed against manufacturer’s defects

in materials and craftsmanship for the

life of the product by its original owner.

PHOTOGS //

Jim Klug, Jim Harris, Jeremie Hollman, Chris

Peterson, Colorblind Media, Lacey Kelly,

Sarah Grigg, Corin Smith, Lance Peterson,

Brett Seng, Bryan Gregson, and John Torok

FINATIC REELSSPECIFICATIONS—

Cert no. XXX-XXX-000ANGLER’S ANNUAL TWENTY SEVENTEEN

HATCH OUTDOORS