I had the opportunity to tie at the ISE San Mateo Show January 10th, 11th and 12th. Tying with incredible fly tyers like these, I always leave energized with desire and creativity. We were out on the main floor this year, (new), and felt like more a part of the show.

But it is a shame this show is becoming so small. It is obvious that the fly tying and fly fishing shops that have been regulars for so many years have been priced out of attending. I have always purchased most of my general materials for the year at this show. Unfotunately, this year, there were no materials to be found.

Below are some of the truly great tiers that participated this year. (Yes, Dan actually tied some flys.)

There were several others I was not able to get pictures of; Steve Potter, Jack Dennis, Bill Blackstone, Dorothy Zinky, etc.

I just received a couple of pics from my friend and fishing buddy Bob Silva. He returned from a week in Alaska a couple of days ago and obviously had a great time. This beautiful Pink Salmon was caught on a #2 Pink Lady popper (in the mouth, thank you Bob!). I tied a few for Bob to use on the trip at his request and I guess they worked. Ofcourse, the probabability that his skill had much more to do with landing the fish is a much better bet than the poppers.

Bob Silva in Alaska

I met Rich Loborvich in a hotel room in Idaho Falls with a few other friends that are members of the Tracy FlyFishers during the weekend of the Expo. Considering the time of night, etc. I'm not sure how or why he remembered me, but he did.

Rich was kind enough to invite me to join the club (he is a founding member) on their annual blow-out, this year at Kistler Ranch. Rich was a wonderful host, very knowledgeable fly fisher, great guide and knew where the good restaurant was.

The club knows how to do these things right and it was a terrific day. Several of my fly tying friends are members of the Tracy club and this was the first opportunity for me to enjoy their company and fish with them outside of a fly tying venue. 2 of them, Steve Potter and Ben Byng barbequed the tri-tip which was as close to perfection as you can get.

I didn't catch any fish but I still left with a smile. Thanks to Rich and all the Tracy Flyfishers for a very enjoyable weekend.

Tracy Flyfishers at Kistler Ranch

The Oregon Council FFF put on a spectacular show March 9 & 10 in Albany, Oregon. This year they moved the venue to the Linn County Expo Center and it was a fantastic success. There was plenty of room to see all the tyers and the hotels were in walking distance and the crowds were great.

Here's a few pictures from the show.

Oregon Council FFF March 9 & 10 2007