The Red Letter. Fly Fishing 101, April A great example of why we volunteer!!!

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1 The Red Letter OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE RED STICK FLY FISHERS Next Membership Meeting: Monday, May , 7:00PM at the Wildlife and Fisheries Building on Quail Drive Next Fly Tying Meeting: Monday, 23., 7:00PM at Bass Pro Shop, Denham Springs, La.

2 Fly Fishing 101, April 2011 A great example of why we volunteer!!! Red Stick Fly Fishers (RSFF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of fly fishing, conservation and outdoor ethics. Programs are held the second Monday of each month at Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries located on Quail Dr. at 7:00 pm. Fly tying is held the fourth Monday of each month, except December. The location currently alternates between Orvis, Cabela s in Gonzales and Bass Pro Shop in Denham Springs. These events also begin at 7:00 pm. Dues are $25 for individuals or families, free for students. RSFF is affiliated with the Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) Gulf Coast Council. Submissions to The Red Letter must be received by the Editor no later than the first Monday of each month. Correspondence or club information can be obtained through the club web site, or by (see last page for member contacts), or by regular mail at: RSFF PO Box 3761 Baton Rouge, La RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 1 Baton Rouge, La

3 May 9th's Featured Speaker Jerald Horst, Popular Louisiana Outdoor Writer and Author to Speak by Dugan Sabins, Program and Education Chair Jerald Horst is a retired fishery biologist and popular outdoor writer with a unique background and perspective on Louisiana fisheries and fishing. He has written countless entertaining and educational articles on fishing and fishing related issues on both coastal and fresh water habitats. Most of us are familiar with Jerald's fishing adventures from his articles in the Louisiana Sportsman. In 1997 his skills as a Conservation Communicator were recognized with a special award by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. Both Jerald and I have the same fishery degree from LSU so I count him as one of my long term colleagues in the fishery world. We shared many adventures together in our early student years from dealing with 100 pound alligator snapping turtles to trammel netting striped bass and other river fishes from the Old River Control Structure to Wax Lake. So Jerald's repertoire of topics to discuss is large but he should be able to go into some good saltwater stories on catching large speckled trout from his book on the subject, "Trout Masters". Or he may also go into some of the culinary information he has amassed from his Seafood Bible book series. All this info we may well put to use on the upcoming Spring Catch and Eat. So come on out and say hi to Jerald and enjoy some of his interesting stories and books. for more info, go to RSFF "Crawfish Rendezvous" by "Catch" Cormier, Events Chair Sunday, May 15 2pm to 5pm, crawfish served at 2:30 pm Walk-Ons, Coursey Blvd $16 per person Yes, folks, it was a little over 60,000 years ago when LSU professor Dr. Mook Tog, took time from his development of the circular wheel to hold a crawfish boil for his colleagues. Our club got hold of Dr. Tog's party and decided to crash it. But Daylight Savings Time went into effect the night before the party, and club members forgot to reset their sundials. By the time they got to Dr. Tog's party, most of the crawfish was already gone. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 2 Baton Rouge, La

4 The moral: if you want crawfish, boil your own! For the next 59,992 years, Red Stick Fly Fishers held their own boil. Then came years of severe drought and poor harvest, Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, and the BP Oil Spill. Every pestilence known to man kept us from having crawfish. When a boxer gets his ear bitten off during a bout, it usually takes several months of recovery before he can fight again. Likewise, we realized that organizing a crawfish boil would take some "recovery". And since it was getting late in the season when the idea was proposed, we've decided to do something different than "boil our own"... at least for this year. So here's the plan: 1. We've reserved a room at Walk-Ons on Coursey for Sunday, May 15 at 2:00 pm. 2. Some of us will get together - with spouses or dates - or both, if they know each other and enjoy boiled crawfish served "catered style" with corn and potatoes. 3. Any RSFF member interested in joining us, the cost is $16 per person. Fill out the form below or a response. 4. The club will pick up tax and gratuity. RSFF 2011 Crawfish Rendezvous Name: Number in party X $16 per person = TOTAL $ Mail to: RSFF, PO Box 3761, Baton Rouge, LA Checks payable to Red Stick Fly Fishers. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 3 Baton Rouge, La

5 Upcoming Catch & Eat Events by Randy Leonpacker, Salt Water Chair Spring 2011 Saltwater Catch & Eat Mark your calendar, the Spring Saltwater Catch & Eat is on target for the weekend of May 21 nd. This is less than 2 weeks from the May RSFF meeting. None have argued with our SOP, so back we go. Meaning specifically, we are headed back to what's known by us as the "Highway 1 Corridor". It s the stretch of marsh between and including Galliano and Grand Isle. In case you're a newcomer to the Saltwater C&E event format, everyone attending is responsible for making their own hotel reservations (or other accommodations) at their favorite place of stay. Folks are encouraged to solidify these plans ASAP since rooms sometimes have a tendency to book up as fishing improves and my guess would be that this is going to happen. The approach is for bank fisherman, puddlers or boat fishermen, to partner up with others fishing by the same methodology. This format allows for those who've been-there-and-and-done-that to share secrets with those who haven't. A high point of the C&E event (in addition to the great fishing) is the usual fish fry on Saturday afternoon/evening. It's the gathering to share the fresh-caught-and-cooked seafood, and tell fish stories that marked the day. Timing for the fish fry will be somewhere between late afternoon and early evening, and immediately following the fish cleaning. If history repeats itself, feasters can expect a few jumbo shrimp to spice up the fry. The fresh-caught seafood-fry is certainly something that you won't want to miss. I cannot recall anyone every going away hungry from a C&E fish fry. The location of the C&E fish fry will be based on which site has the most attendance and on consensus of those attending the event. This will be published as the date approaches and as reservations begin to solidify. My guess is that the location will most likely be Boudreaux s Condeauxs, as usual. A C&E list is circulating and a sign-up list will be available at the upcoming meeting for those not receiving the . This list is not a commitment list. It simply will be used for keeping interested parties informed - who's attending, where they will be staying, what days the plan to fish, etc. Please put your name on the list (or send me an ) even if you think you might be interested in attending or knowing about the upcoming 2010 Spring Saltwater C&E. At last count the planning to attend list included 18 named participants. One more item, the full moon occurs 4 days before the weekend. The Caminada Pass tides look to be pretty good with highs at about 1 ft 3 inches on Friday, down to about 1 ft on Sunday. High tide occurs just after lunch time; low time around midnight. Weather-wise, who knows? I m still searching for the calendar that shows future barometric pressures. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 4 Baton Rouge, La

6 One more item, bring an extra ice chest. I was told by Seafood Shed that this is the time of year is when shrimp are at their lowest price. Grand Isle Fly Fishing Weekend June 24-26, 2011 Well after 2 years of waiting, it s definitely time to get the Grand Isle Fly Fishing weekend back on track. The date is June 24-26, 2011, a scant 7 weeks away. Many RSFF club members along with other surrounding area club members are well aware of the magnitude of this event. It's at the point where most surrounding fly fishers have either attended, or at least know about, this event. If you happen to be one of the rare few who have not had a chance to partake, your opportunity is nearby. The weekend offers lots of fun for all types of fly fishers. Simply bring your boating, puddle craft or bank/surf fishing equipment and join with others who share your fishing technique. The weekend lets the "non-fishing fly fishers" share their techniques. These are the folks who choose to get out of the sun, tie a few flies, drink a cold beverage or two, and tell fishing stories. High points of weekend are the Friday evening shrimp boil and Saturday evening fish fry. The Saturday fry features fresh fish contributed by those who caught fish... The intent is for everyone to fall into the category of having caught fish and contributing to the fry, even though that's not a requirement. Historically, the generally overwhelming supply of shrimp and fish, has ensured that no one has ever gone away hungry from these feasts. Another plus for the weekend is the abundance of fresh shrimp and the opportunity to pick some up for the trip home. This year s shrimp crop is looking to be one of the best ever. Prices on the island are about as good as it gets. So be sure to bring a spare ice chest to take a few pounds home with you. The Blue Dolphin will remain as our central location. As per SOP, we are ONLY taking individual "bed" reservations for the rooms at Blue Dolphin Inn. Additionally, Blue Dolphin Cottages can be reserved as an alternative. At this writing time there are quite a few beds available for those wanting to stay at the Blue Dolphin Inn. However, if you are interested you'll need to sign up quickly as the notices have gone out and we are quickly booking up. As expected, the rate for a Blue Dolphin bed is slightly higher this year at $83. But, this is only a $5 increase from the $78 two years ago. So lock in your reservations soon. Everyone who signs-up for a bed at the Blue Dolphin will need to have paid up by the first week of June. You also have the option of making your own personal reservations to stay with friends who own camps, at rental camps, or other hotels & motels on the island. Ricky's Motel is a great motel choice as they have a fishing pier on the back side of the island. Ricky's Motel is about a mile from the bridge on the bay side of the island. Those of you who prefer to stay at Ricky's ( ) or other nearby hotels, motels or camps will do business directly with them. I recommend that you make your reservations ASAP. The hurricanes have left us with fewer places to stay on the island and these will begin to book up soon. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 5 Baton Rouge, La

7 As for the fishing this year, who knows? Marlene at Blue Dolphin claims that the month of June is the best trout fishing month. So if this holds true, this year's event could be the BEST EVER. Of course, we still have to wait to see what Mother Nature will be bringing use for the GI weekend weather. But, even if the fishing isn't a success for everyone, folks who have attended can tell you that the great fun, and great food, and great comradeship are enough to justify coming back every year. This by itself, tells you want this fishing trip is all about Fly Fishing Film Tour Comes to Lafayette For those who missed out on the New Orleans showing of this year's Fly Fishing Film Tour, good news! RSFF has partnered with the Acadiana Fly Rodders club, and Pack and Paddle in Lafayette, to present a 2nd Louisiana showing of the FFFT. Admission: $15 at the door; $12 in advance at Pack & Paddle. Or you can purchase your tickets online for $15 at (Click Lafayette in the listing on the bottom right of the screen). With the Sunday date and time, we won't have to fight traffic to see the films like a weekday event would. In fact, there is some discussion about meeting up at one of the Lafayette-area dining establishments sometime after 1:00pm. Check our forum at for any plans that come up. Sunday, June 12 4:00pm (doors open at 3:30pm) Pack & Paddle 601 E. Pinhook Rd. Lafayette, LA Those of us who attended 2009 Fly Fishing Film Tour that the club hosted at Grand Cinema, or the 2010 Tour that was part of the activities at the FFF Gulf Coast Expo last year, know what to expect: half-crazed idiots in pursuit of exciting assortment of species on fly rod! This press release from Mayfly Media gives a more of-fish-al description of the Tour. (Boulder, CO) The Fly Fishing Film Tour, the largest event of its kind, is set to come to Lafayette on Sunday, June 12th. The only tour of its kind to feature all original content from the best filmmakers in the industry, this year s tour will visit more than 90 cities, in over 31 states, plus additional stops in Canada. With never-seen footage from across the globe, a party atmosphere, audience giveaways and valuable coupons, the annual high-energy spectacle is the sport s most anticipated live-event. While the atmosphere and footage fuel the tour, it is a dedication to promoting the sport and supporting location conservation efforts that stand as the tour s true purpose. We recognize that without the support of local fly RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 6 Baton Rouge, La

8 shops, conservation groups and manufacturers our sport couldn t continue to grow, says tour co-owner Thad Robison. So we work with local outfitters to provide discounted tickets and special offers for our fans and we encourage local chapters of environmental groups to distribute materials at our shows. It s a way for us to support the fly fishing community in every town we visit. Two films in particular highlight the environmental angle in this year s tour as Motiv Fishing s, Oile documents four fishbums travels through Mexico in a pick-up truck fueled with used vegetable oil. Heart of the Marsh by filmmaker Greg Dini provides spectacular footage, and positive news, on the impact the recent gulf oil spill had on Redfish populations and Louisiana marshlands. Other featured segments include World ANGLING s passionate and patient pursuit for the elusive Permit fish, LDR Media s incredible adventures landing Mako sharks on their lines, and Beattie Outdoors subsisting on cheesecurds and yellow beer while pulling in midwestern Smallmouth Bass and Billfish in Guatemala. While each film in the tour delivers a unique blend of stunning cinematography, comedy, and storytelling, they all share a common theme: to share their relentless passion for the sport by showcasing the best action footage and the most impressive fish ever caught. All winter we dream about fishing and this is just a way for us to celebrate that passion with friends and other enthusiasts, says Robison. There s nothing better for me than when I hear a theater filled with fans cheering wildly. The tour kicks off in Ventura, CA on February 3rd and will hit over 90 cities in the U.S. and Canada. Visit for ticket and show info, photos, film trailers, and more. Various filmmakers, fisherman, and cameraman are available for interviews upon request. The Fly Fishing Film Tour is produced by Webeye Group, LLC. The Fly Fishing Film Tour is sponsored by Costa, Patagonia, Sage, Scientific Anglers, Outdoor Channel, Yellow Dog Fly-fishing Adventures, Ultimate Electronics and Five Rivers Lodge. April - Lake Concordia Trip Photos by Photo Journalists - Dugan Sabins, Emmitt Simmons & Tom Lundin Articles by Jack Lithgoe, Warm Water Chair Lake Concordia - so sweet!!! RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 7 Baton Rouge, La

9 RSFF Spring 2011 Warm water Pilgrimage to Lake Concordia Lake Concordia and RSFF seems to have a love-hate relationship relative to weather. Spring or fall, high winds and heavy rain, usually accompanied by a tornado watch or warnings has been the rule. Nothing new this year. Getting to Lake Concordia, we drove through several thunderstorms with gusting wind, and folks who left Baton Rouge late reported a hailstorm. RSFF went to Lake Concordia to fish and wouldn't be denied. Frustrated maybe. It was very windy Friday and Saturday, but most fly rodders were still able to catch fish. There were a number of nice bass caught, and most fish baskets had some nice catfish, some of which were caught on the Concordia yo-yo fly, but the bream provided sporadic action for those who found relief from the wind and persevered in finding the occasional bed, although it appeared to be still a little early for the spawn. The bream that were caught were very nice size and seemed to be holding at depths of 2-4 feet. Some fish were caught on the bottom in 5 feet of water. It didn't seem to matter what fly you tossed as long as it had chartreuse in it. Fish were caught with and without strike indicators, but slow stripping without an indicator provided more fun for me. As always, the Saturday night fish fry was a big hit. We usually plan on 5 fish per person, but decided to fry 130 fish because the fish cleaning crew was drinking beer and kept losing count. Didn't need to. The bream were so big that 3 or 4 each was plenty (except for Randy). More were left than were eaten, but nothing went to waste, as I'm sure they were on the menu on Monday night in Baton Rouge. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 8 Baton Rouge, La

10 Sunday morning breakfast on the outdoor deck of Sportsman's Lodge was a bonus, and when everything got picked up, several boats went out to find the conditions much improved and some nice stringers of fish were hauled in. I was testing a couple of new rods that weekend, and one thing I determined is that TFO has a great warranty, which makes it a great value fishing stick. If you want details of my rod test, let me know at the next meeting. There are lots of things to do to make a trip like this come together. It sure helps to have willing volunteers to help with the many chores of fish cleaning, food prep, cooking and clean up. Thanks to everyone who pitched in, and thanks to everyone that brought food for the table. For those of you who didn't make the trip, plan on going on some of the club trips in the future. You will learn how to tie new flies, improve your casting, discover some honey holes, and most of all share in the fellowship of some really good guys. Sign up for the Spring Catch and Eat, and the Grand Isle Trip, both coming up soon. See Randy Leonpacher, Saltwater Chair. A follow up on my decision to try out Sportsman's Lodge. Feedback was positive on the Sportsman's' Lodge Big House with kitchen, gathering place, ample dock space, outdoor patio decks, trailer parking, etc. Several folks said they liked the cabins at Lakeview Lodge better than cabins at Sportsman's Lodge. In the future, the club could book the Big House at Sportsman's Lodge to have a kitchen and gathering spot, and members could make their own arrangements at either Lakeview, just a short boat or car ride away, or at Sportsman's. I was informed that Lakeview had seen a significant downturn in business and Sportsman's has been the beneficiary. Lakeview Lodge had been operated on a lease to purchase arrangement. Manager Sue Ardoin has chosen to return to Baton Rouge, and the original owners will take over management. They have promised to RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 9 Baton Rouge, La

11 improve the facilities and earn back our business. I will keep you posted on their progress. Competition is good. We need both of the lodges to seek and earn our business. We have dates reserved for Fall 2011 and Spring I will let you know of the progress at Lakeview and possibly reserve a weekend there also. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 10 Baton Rouge, La

12 I beat you'll think twice about missing the next Lake ConcordiaTrip!!! Speaking for myself (Sheldon), it's clear from these photos and comments, which Lake Concordia lodge gets my vote... RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 11 Baton Rouge, La

13 Can't leave out the locals!! April Fly Fishing 101 Photos by Photo Journalist - Emmitt Simmons Fly Fishing 101, Class of April 2011 Congratulations!!!! RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 12 Baton Rouge, La

14 The 2011 Fly Fishing 101 class went off on schedule under clear skies and warm spring temperatures at the Waddell Outdoors Education Center on April 9 th this year. This year s class consisted of an energetic and interested group of 10 potential new fly fishers including some with other outdoors interests and experiences and some will very little. One father in the class brought his 10 year old daughter who did exceptionally well at casting and fly tying as did two teenage youths in the class. The Fly Fishing 101 class is designed to present an opportunity for beginning fishermen and women and also read boys and girls an opportunity to improve their knowledge and skill in all aspects of fly fishing. RSFF members present sessions with information on fishing gear and accessories, casting, fly tying, knots and leaders and basic fly fishing tactics. RSFF Participants and Instructors for this year s 101 class were: Dan Weber, Dugan Sabins and Ron Braud handling logistics, welcome and registration duties, Bill Brown doing basic fly fishing introduction and equipment, Catch Cormier and Joe Kahler handling the hands on fly casting instruction alongside one of the ponds, our fly tying chair Emmitt Simmons doing the fly tying instruction and Mike Lafleur covering knots and leaders. Because the class was of the right size only one session of each topic was held at a time which gave the participants a one on one learning opportunity. Following the class sessions a jambalaya lunch was served and followed by a raffle drawing for prizes which included a fly rod and various fly fishing goodies. The class participants express their appreciation to the instructors and said they were ready to go out and dive right into fly fishing. They were invited to attend the monthly RSFF meetings. Cost of participation in the 101 class this year was free to members and several participants joined as RSFF members as a result of the class. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 13 Baton Rouge, La

15 Who knows, this may have been his 1st fish on a fly rod!!! Wouldn't have been cool to be the one that showed him how cast to that fish!!! Answer the call when the next teaching/instruction event comes around!!! A special thanks to all the instructors that made it another great one!!! Now you can see why photos are such a great part of a trip/event. Our thanks goes out to all that took the time to share their experiences with others thru a photo. Sometimes, words just aren't enough!! Fly Tyer s Bench by Emmitt Simmons, Fly Tying Chair Introduction Our trip to Concordia was great. Bream were a little larger than last year and fairly cooperative for the most part. No one could deny that we had done well at the cookout on Saturday night. We had an opportunity to tie a few flies for our folks who were new to Concordia and that was a great experience. I appreciate all of the veterans showing the newcomers their favorite patterns. Thanks to Randy Leonpacher this past month for demonstrating the suspended epoxy spoon at RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 14 Baton Rouge, La

16 Cabelas. The epoxy over wire frame for this fly is a new technique that many of you have not tried. A little bit challenging but the results are wonderful. Beginners Corner - The Eyes Have It - You are standing in an icy stream in January, trying to tie on a #14 A&W emerger. You grab your 4X leader and try to run it through the eye of the hook. You curse Sally Hansen as she has clogged up the eye of your fly and you are going to have to clean it out to tie your fly on.. Don t let this happen to you. Always clean out your hook eyes before the head cement sets up. Running a small hackle feather through the eye, or cleaning out with your bodkin is a much easier to do when you are in the comfort of your home. Tools and Techniques Suspended Epoxy What is it?- This technique is used to build epoxy flies and involves applying epoxy over a wire frame.. How is it applied? Refer to the Ron Begnaud s Suspended Epoxy Spoon for photos and application tips Next Month s Tools and Techniques-Spun Dubbing Flies. Materials, Hooks, Threads and Cements Looking for wing material of a certain color? Head on down to the artificial flower department at your local craft store for a huge selection. April 2011 Featured Tyer - Randy Leonpacher - Cabalas, Monday April 25, 7:00PM. Randy is the RSFF Saltwater Chair and the inventor of the famous Jitterbee fly. A more deadly warm water fly can scarcely be found. Bream, catfish, sac-au-lait, bass and catfish have all fallen to this fly. Randy is especially generous in the summertime and keeps us well supplied with cucumbers, squash and eggplants. This month, Randy demonstrated the Suspended Epoxy Spoon. With our upcoming saltwater catch and eat, you will want to have several of these in your fly box. Sorry for the inconvenience, as I only have a PDF file for this fly. The website appears to be shut down. I will bring copies to the meeting next week. May 23 Featured Tyer - Sheldon Anderson - Bass Pro, Monday, May 23, 7:00PM. Sheldon is the editor of the RSFF Red Letter monthly newsletter. Many of you witnessed Gary Borger demonstrate spinning materials using a dubbing loop. This technique makes a very buggy pattern as shown in last month s newsletter. Sheldon has promised to instruct us and show how this is done in the May session. He is also going to show us a crab pattern that he is working on. Don t miss this meeting as I know you will want to add this to your inventory of skills. June 27 Featured Tyer - Don Richardson- Orvis, Monday, June 27, 7:00PM. Don is our former RSFF president. As many of you know, he is a master when it comes to tying more advanced patterns such as articulated flies and Tom Mixon spinners. Don is going to demonstrate the Circus Peanut pattern next month. This pattern is great for trout and bass according to Don. The following pages were taken from the Red Chaser Website, which seems to be down at the moment. So, copy is from a low quality previous save. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 15 Baton Rouge, La

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31 This falls into the, "take it or leave it category" Popped into my one day.. you be the judge. We are the original inventor of the Titanium Fly Rods, the only one of its kind in the world. design, develop and patent these rods in Colorado, U.S.A. We The benefits Titanium Fly Rods over Graphite Rods -. Great sensitivity is felt from tip top to reel seat due to scientifically solid titanium wire is implanted on entire rod.. Durability, powerful, light and consistent accuracy.. Less need to false cast and let Titanium do the work.. Great to fish all species salt and fresh water ADG Titanium fly rods transform the way you fish with new technologies and no other fly rods in the world can provide such unique performance. These rods will definitely make fly fishing an absolute delight. Please spread the words to your club and become the proud owner today like many have had! For more information, please visit our website - or s us These patent rods are not sold at the store. Blanks are available! Tight line. Best regards, David Ahn-ADG Titanium Fly Rods or PHONE: ADG TITANIUM FLY RODS P.O. BOX AURORA, COLORADO USA Thanks to all that submitted photos and articles. Just a reminder, this is your news letter. All submissions are welcome!!! RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 16 Baton Rouge, La

32 RSFF Calendar of Events by "Catch" Cormier, Events Chair We have a busy year!! What's happening in the weeks and months ahead. Asterisk (*) denotes a RSFF-sponsored event. Activities designated with (M) are for members and their immediate family, or members of other clubs, only. All other activities are open to the public. For the most up to date list, go to and click "Calendar" page to see what's scheduled. Recurring Activities * Membership Meeting: 7:00 p.m., 2nd Monday of each month, Wildlife and Fisheries headquarters, Quail Drive, Baton Rouge. Casting instruction prior to meeting during Daylight Savings Time. * Fly Tying Sessions: 7:00 p.m., 4th Monday of each month. Meeting locations rotate every 3rd month. For more info, contact the Fly Tying Chair, Jack Dial, at (225) January, April, July, October: Cabela s in Gonzales. - February, May, August, November: Bass Pro in Denham Springs. - March, June, September, December: Orvis in Baton Rouge. December meeting coincides with annual Orvis Open House. Fly Tying at Bass Pro Shops: 9:30 a.m. - 12noon, 4th Saturday of each month (except December when it's the 3rd Saturday). Conference Room, Bass Pro, Denham Springs. Call Harold Henkel (225) Events May 12 (Thu) - Baton Rouge CCA Banquet. 5:30pm - 10:30pm. Carl Maddox Field House LSU Campus, Baton Rouge. Tickets: $60 per person ($30 per spouse / $25 per youth). Includes admission, one-year CCA membership, dinner and open bar. Live Auction, Raffles, Silent Auction, Door prizes. Contact Julie Grunewald julie@ccalouisiana.com May 14 (Sat) - Cabela's Fly Fishing Seminar "Fast Class". Sessions at 9.30am and 1:30pm. Cabelas in Gonzales. Red Stick will be helping our club sponsor Cabelas with their variation of "Fly Fishing 101". Knots, leaders, casting, equipment, and fly tying will be presented. Club volunteers are needed! For more info, go to May 14 (Sat) - Backpacker Paddle Demo. Baton Rouge Beach; Stanford Drive. 10:00am - 3:00pm. Dates & times subject to weather. Please call to confirm. Test out the wide range of kayaks: Hobie, Ocean Kayak, Freedom Hawk, Old Town, Perception, Jackson, Wilderness Systems. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 17 Baton Rouge, La

33 * May 15 (Sun) - "RSFF Crawfish Rendezvous". A longtime tradition of our club was the annual crawfish boil. It's back... sort of. Given the late timing, we decided to forego "boil our own" for this year and instead, reserve a room at Walk-Ons on Coursey Blvd for 2:00pm on Sunday, May 15. We'll enjoy boiled crawfish, corn, potatoes. Cost is $16 per person. The club will pick up gratuity and taxes. You must purchase your own beverages. So bring your spouse, date, or both if they're on good terms with each other. RSVP is required. Please your name and guest names to catch@laflyfish.com. May 17 (Tue) - CCA Luncheon Series. 11:30 am. Drusilla Seafood Restaurant, 3482 Drusilla Lane, Baton Rouge. Co-hosted by CCA chapters in the Capitol Region. Admission $20 covers cost of the meal. Attire is come as you are! Agenda: Fisheries updates and discussion, STAR tournament preview, Keynote Speaker (TBA), Paradise Louisiana Fishing and Hunting reports. To RSVP: Call Annie at (225) or david@ccalouisiana.com. * May RSFF Spring Catch-and-Eat marsh fishing trip for reds, specks, drum and other species. Highway 1 corridor. Culminates with Saturday evening fish fry at Boudreauxs Condeauxs in Golden Meadow or Boudreaux Motel in Leeville. For more info, check the April/May newsletters or forum at May 21 (Sat) - Orvis Fly Fishing :00am - 1:00pm. Orvis Company Store, Baton Rouge, 7601 Bluebonnet Blvd (Perkins Rowe). This FREE introductory clinic covers fly casting, equipment and rigging. All ages and skill levels welcome, but under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Class size limited, RSVP to reserve your space! Other dates: May 21, May 28, June 11, June 18. To reserve your space, contact Jarid Malone, Fishing Manager of Orvis-Baton Rouge at between 10am and 6pm. May 28 (Sat) - Camp Fly Fishing School - Advanced Session. If you desire to improve upon your casting mechanics, accuracy and distance, or overall expertise, then "The Camp Fly Fishing School" is what you need! Classes are held at "The Camp" facility in Breaux Bridge, featuring a stocked pond and an air-conditioned classroom. Price of $135 includes one full day of instruction, 8:00am to 5:00pm, lunch, refreshments, and handouts. Instructors are all FFF Certified Casting Instructors, Master CCIs and Casting Board Governors. For details, go to May 28 - Sept 5 - CCA Statewide Tournament and Anglers Rodeo (STAR). The largest coastal tournament in Louisiana features 11 divisions, including Kayak Fishing and Fly Fishing. Our own Mike LaFleur won last year's F/F West Division. The first 10 specially tagged redfish caught during the rodeo win some awesome prizes (truck, motorcycle, boats). Membership in CCA or New Tide (CCA under 18) required, plus a STAR entry for adults (kids fish free in STAR). See the article in this newsletter for more details. For rules and tournament entry, go to June Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) Southeast Conclave, Unicoi State Park, Helen, GA. Annual conclave of the Southeastern Council FFF features programs, fly tying, vendors, workshops, raffles, and many other activities. Check the website for details and registration. RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 18 Baton Rouge, La

34 * June Fly Fishing Film Tour. Pack and Paddle, Lafayette. Doors open 3:30, showing begins at 4:00pm. A collection of short films by independent filmmakers that celebrate the sport of fly fishing. Check the article in this newsletter for complete details. Co-hosted by RSFF, Acadiana Fly Rodders and Pack and Paddle. Tickets: $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Seating is limited, so advance tickets encouraged. For tickets, go to * June (Fri-Sun) - Grand Isle Fly Fishing Weekend, Blue Dolphin Inn, Grand Isle. Cosponsored by south Louisiana and Mississippi fly-fishing clubs. Registration required. Call Randy Leonpacher (225) or Barry Dauphin (337) or go to Sept 17 (Sat) - Contraband Conclave, 9:00am - 3:30pm, Moss Bluff. Hosted by the Contraband Fly Casters of Lake Charles. Fly tying, programs, casting, food, raffles, and more. For details go to Sept 17 (Sat) - Ride the Bull II Extreme Kayak Fishing Tournament. Bridgeside Marina on Grand Isle. Presented by Calmwater Charters. After a smashing debut in 2009, RTB had to be cancelled last year due to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. But organizer Danny Wray says "It's back... and so are the bulls!". The format is simple - land a Bull Red from your Kayak or other authorized paddle craft in Caminada Pass. Awards will be given for largest Bull Red landed and weighed (and released). Net Proceeds from the tournament used for kayak access on Grand Isle. For rules and info, go to * Sept (Fri-Sun) - RSFF annual Fall trip to Lake Concordia. Friday thru Sunday. Fly fishing for bass, bream, crappie, other species. Culminates with Saturday evening fish fry. Check for further details. Oct 6-8 (Thu-Sat) - Federation of Fly Fishers (FFF) Southern Conclave, Baxter County Fairgrounds, Mountain Home, AR. Annual conclave of the Southern Council FFF. Thursday offers workshops only, Friday and Saturday features more workshops, programs, fly tying, vendors, raffles, and many other activities. Great coldwater trout fishing on adjacent White and Norfork Rivers. Check for details. Oct 15 (Sat) - Fall-n-Tide VII, kayak fishing tournament hosted by Bayou Coast Kayak Fishing Club. Open to the public. The FnT also has a "Fly Fishing Division". Each participant is eligible for lots of door prizes, captains bag, Friday night jambalaya and Saturday fish fry. The 20+ members of Red Stick who are also members of BCKFC can attest that both clubs eat well! It's also a great opportunity to learn from the nearly 100 folks who participate. For more info or to register, go to * Nov (Fri-Sun) - RSFF Fall Catch-and-Eat marsh fishing trip for reds, specks, drum and other species. Highway 1 corridor. Culminates with Saturday evening fish fry at Boudreauxs Condeauxs in Golden Meadow or Boudreaux Motel in Leeville. For more info, check upcoming newsletters or forum at RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 19 Baton Rouge, La

35 RSFF Board Position home work address Dan Weber President Don Richardson Past President Greg Brignac Vice President Ron Braud Treasurer Sheldon Anderson Editor Mike LaFleur Secretary Glen Cormier Events Jack Dial Coldwater Emmitt Simmons Fly Tying Randy Leonpacher Saltwater Bill Brown Membership Roger del Rio Conservation Dugan Sabins Education/Programs Jack Lithgoe Warm water Friends of RSFF, Please support our club sponsors! A Bayou Runs Thru It - PO Box 1062, Broussard, LA 70518, (337) , Jerome & Dena Hebert - Custom Flies, Wildlife & Game Fish Art. Backpacker Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA, (225) , Camping, canoes, kayaks, outdoor clothing. Fish With Rich Guide Service - Capt. Rich Waldner, New Orleans, La, (504) , Fly fishing for reds and specks in the Southeast La. Marsh Fly Fishing in Salt Waters Magazine - (407) , Leading publication on fly fishing saltwater. Green Trout Fly Shop N. Range Ave. Denham Springs, La. (Located in Seldom Seen Mall) Louisiana Fly Fishing Louisiana online fly fishing resource since Louisiana Sportsman Magazine PO Box 1199, Boutte, LA, (504) , Louisiana's premier outdoors magazine and online source. Mayer Clothiers Orvis, Winston Rods 5830 S. Sherwood Forest; Baton Rouge, (225) , Jim Mayer, Proprietor. Orvis rods & fly tying material, Winston rods, fine clothes for men and ladies Rio Products, Inc. Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402, (208) , makers of premium fly lines, leaders, accessories. Temple Fork Outfitters Makers of affordable quality fly fishing products. Tibor Reels Old World craftsmanship Made in the USA. Uptown Angler 601 Julia St., New Orleans, (504) , Alec Griffin, Manager Red Chaser Guide Service RSFF, PO Box 3761, Page 20 Baton Rouge, La