threeparrots

I think I've posted about this story before, but it fits here.

When I was young (13-15 range) we used to go on pretty decent hikes around the credit (near the forks, further north). We would frequently walk the river because its so shallow and nice on a really hot day. One day there were a few of us plus dog, walked by some guys fishing... just marched right on past em through the water. Couldn't figure out why they were such "assholes" lol.

Just buy a good one from the get go. They don't fall apart so you'll have it forever and you'll be thankful you spent upfront. I bought a Tarpon 120 from the get-go.. couldn't be happier.

I hesitated at first because of the price, but the time I've spent on it has made it worth it on many levels. Great fishing, great exercise, outdoor time, meeting people, going new places, etc..

If you're truly into it, buy a good one. It fits everything I need, is stable, performs amazingly well, and can be car topped by myself alone.

I'm not saying it has to be a Tarpon 120, but get something of that level of quality. Don't waste your time and money on a Pelican. You'll just be upgrading the following season.

The rule would be that the overtaking boat shall keep clear.. period.

EDIT:

Also, from personal experience I have gathered that rowers are only one step above drunken power boaters in regards to their etiquette on the water. Likely due to their lack of experience. Sorry if that offends anyone, but IMO.

3.5-4 inches is where I've had best success. The longer it is, the heavier it will get once wet. Ideally, you want the fly to remain just under the surface at roughly the same level as a gar itself. The longer flies get heavier, sink quicker (especially if you want to let it rest in the water.. it will just sink). I haven't experimented with different materials yet.. perhaps next year.

Gotta make your own. Using the core of most any rope will do the trick. The rope tangles in their teeth.

You can pop the fist out in under a minute with care. Obviously if you have no care for the fish you can do some serious damage if not removed properly. Those of us on this board (I presume) do have care for the fish, which will ensure their survival. In all honesty, I've had the most problems with releasing fish when they've burried the lure down their throat or into their gills. Now I'm not sure how much oxygen these gar breathe, but they've been the most resiliant out of water species that I've encountered.

I have had some awful tangles, but never felt like the fish wouldn't make it once released -- they've always kicked away hard. I'm sure most others with experience would agree. Also -- by limiting the length of your rope fly you also limit the amount of tangle possible.

So yes, there is potential to harm the fish while using rope flies, but with care I personally haven't seen the harm.