Tri-County
Fly Fishers
Home Page
May, 2013 Edition
 
Welcome to the Tri-County Fly Fishers Website.  This Club is made up of about fifty members from rank beginners to those with 50+ years of fly fishing and tying experience.  Fishing interests range from bluegills and bass to redfish and tarpon, with an occasional rainbow or brown trout from up north thrown in.  Membership is drawn from permanent and seasonal residents of those in and around the Florida counties of Lake, Marion and Sumter.
Recent Website Updates:
4/28
Monthly update to the Home Page.  Calendar Page updated. 23 photos added to the Photo Album.
3/31
Monthly update to the Home Page.  Calendar Page updated. 11 photos added to the Photo Album.
3/3
Monthly update to the Home Page.  Calendar Page updated. 14 photos added to the Photo Album.
 
For this month only, the location for the Wednesday Evening Meeting will be held at the Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd, Wildwood, FL 34785
(See Calendar Page for directions.)
 
President's Message
Good day to all Tri-County Fly Fishers and friends,

If you missed the club's events in April, you missed out on a lot of good camaraderie, food and fly casting expertise! It all started with the Club's Annual Picnic. Frank and his posse put on one of the best picnics I've ever seen. Wooten Park in Tavares was an excellent backdrop for this event. With the 50/50 and a multitude of door prizes and gifts for the individuals and participants in games, the picnic was a smashing success! And then our Wednesday night meeting, with leading fly caster Jon Cave, brought out over 35 fly casters to receive tips and casting instructions. I would like to thank Ed for putting on this fine program.

The month of May is bringing two out of town fly fishing trips to the club. One being Bahia Honda here in the Florida Keys and the other being the excursion to North Carolina in mid-May. These two trips look spectacular and the individuals that are going will experience good fishing and great camaraderie.

Fly fishing in Belize, at Jim Johnson's camp, is set up for Saturday, March 15th thru Saturday, March 22nd, 2014. All reservations must be sent to Jim by June 1st 2013. See me for information or if you have any questions. We anticipate that the available accommodations for the club will be filled quickly so don't hesitate in getting your reservations in for this sun-filled fishing trip.

Once again, I will be needing fly tiers and casters to participate in the Florida Outdoor Youth Experience. This event will be held Saturday June 1st from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Ocala Conservation Center.

We have some great Wednesday night programs for the upcoming summer months. Doug will be presenting fly lines, leaders and tippets at our May meeting. June will have Patrick Delaney– one of FWC's biologists and experts on the reptiles of Florida. He is a leading presenter in this area and his discussion is bound to fascinate and intrigue you. In July, Dr. Bob will be talking about how to catch bass in our local ponds.

Once again, I would like to express my thanks for everyone's participation in all the club's events.

Take it easy and tight lines. -- Tom Green
2014 Club Trip To Belize
Dust off your passports! TCFF President Tom Green is laying the groundwork for a Club Fly Fishing Trip to Belize for March 15th through the 22nd, 2014. The venue will be Jim Johnson's Tarpon Bay Fly Fishing Club on Ambergris Caye, 4 miles south of San Pedro. This is an island off of the coast in the north part of the country. Both permit and bonefish can be seen cruising the flats every day and is easily wadeable from the house.

The trip includes guided trips from the dock out front and can be on the flats within minutes. Of course, there are flats to fish farther away as well. Lots of bonefish and permit flats in every direction for as far as you want to boat, although typically, the guides don't run more than 15 or 20 minutes. The only exception is for the tarpon fishing, which is better a little farther away.

Here is an online brochure of the resort.

The all-inclusive cost for the week will be $1695 per person for the fishing package and $995 for non-fishers. Need a commitment and a $1,000 deposit by June 1st. Contact Tom for any questions or to sign up.
April Breakfast Meeting
Adam Miller, the Coastal Conservation Association Regional Director for the Lake County area spoke at the Breakfast Meeting. He talked about the CCA's past performance like being instrumental in get the Net Ban established and the future goals of the organization in preserving the fisheries of Florida.
Coastal Conservation Association --
Banquet and Auction
The Lake County Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) is having their Annual Banquet and Silent Auction May 9th in Mt. Dora. This organization is a grassroots group that is committed to conserving and protecting Florida's marine resources.

For more information, tickets, etc., go here.
John's Lake Bass
John's Lake produce not only this bass but some really nice bluegills in the 9-1/2 to 10 inch range. Early morning seems to be the best time, by lunch time the bite slows down. This bass and others were caught on a small gurgler foam fly, color white, size 8. Most of the large bluegills were taken on a small soft hackle bead head, see Joe Manjoine on this fly as he ties a killer pattern. All fish caught were caught on three weight fly rods and released to be caught another day.
The Villages' Bass
Bob Heinbach was fishing a secret location in The Villages with a secret fly when he caught this really nice not-so-secret bass. Contact him to see if you can get more information as he surely wants to catch it again.
A Fish Story From The Villages
By Bob Heinbach -- I was fishing Poinciana Pond and things were slow until I got a bite. Felt like a small bass and started to pull it in. I thought I got hung up in the grass and then I saw a big flash. Rod started to bend more and I had to let line out! I thought it did not feel that big at first. I had it on for almost a minute when it let go and I then pulled in my line with the fish I really hooked. It was an 8 inch bass with a few scratch marks. I was on the right side of the pipe on the south end when this happened. I then caught another 8 inch one and was bringing it in and the big bass followed that one in until I had it at the bank. It was at least a 5-6 pound bass.

I then went down to the left side of the pipe and was not having any luck. So, I decided to change flies. While I had my tippet in one hand and a new fly in the other, I happened to look down at the water about 6 feet from the bank and 3 big bass cruised by!!! That was worse than getting caught with your pants down.
New York Salmon
Lou Thomas caught this 38 pound salmon in on the Salmon River, Pulaski, New York on a 9 wt fly rod with a 17 pound tippet.
Looking For Fly Fishing Videos
TCFF Member Jerry Lester has taken on the task of creating a video of Club Members fly fishing to be played at gathering like The Villages Expo. This video is to include fresh and salt water here in Florida, out of state Club Trips and those of our members on their summer excursions.

If you already have videos or plan on making videos, contact Jerry at jandbrare@yahoo.com for details and various file transfer methods.

"Creeps and idiots cannot
conceal themselves for
long on a fishing trip."
~ John Gierach

 
Club Annual Picnic
  
About 50 Members, spouses and guests attended the Annual club Picnic. Along with the good food prepared by the Club's excellent cook staff, attendees participated in casting and golf competitions.

For more pictures, see the Photo Album.
 
Jon Cave Casting Clinic
  
Renown fly casting instructor and author Jon Cave gave a four hour casting clinic at the April Evening Meeting which was attended by 35 Members and guests. At the end of the clinic, he spoke about fishing the upper St. Johns River south of Lake Monroe.

For more pictures, see the Photo Album.
 
Lessons Learned by Ed Rapisardi
How many times have we wet waded in local Florida fresh water? Perhaps like most of us who kayak or canoe we waded just to launch our shallow water crafts, with nary a thought about what dangers we face. It is an established fact that most of these waters contain dangerous bacteria. You might recall the news coverage concerning the suffering and finally the death of a young lady who decided to swim in a local waterway abut inhaled and or swallowed some water and became ill -- dangerous bacteria began eating away internal organs and exterior body parts.

The warning was sounded and we were advised not to enter lakes and rivers if we had a cut or scrape into which that bacteria could enter the blood stream. That then brings up the subject of waders, of which there are several kinds.

A very inexpensive pair of rubber hip boots could serve the purpose. They could be suitable for wading trout streams which are on the shallow side. Generally these inexpensive waders come with a boot attached. More serious waders of this type are called stocking foot waders which require a sturdy wading boot which are more desirable because they afford substantial ankle support when the boot laced up.

Then there are waist high and finally chest high waders which allow for wading in deeper water. They tend to be warm in summer but “Breathable” ones are available. In winter all these types are available in Neoprene which is an insulating rubber version to keep you warm. There are two choices for the soles -- rubber cleated for sandy bottom water and felt soled for gripping slippery rocks which are found in many mountain trout streams. The price ranges are varied and handled by outfitters like Cabella's and BassPro Shops -- their catalogues give good descriptions of their features to help you choose.

Mountain streams which contain trout do allow safe wet wading in summer months but in spring and early summer the water can be quite cold and too cold in the winter.

Proper clothing is essential to comfort on the water and waders are important items of comfortable apparel.

Until next time keep your fly dry and your line tight and be sure to watch your back cast. Ed Rapisardi

(All Lessons Learned archived here.)
 
April Breakfast Meeting Minutes
The meeting was called to order by Tim Fahey at 8:35 as the President and Vice President were not in attendance. Twenty-seven people were present.

The Treasurer was not present and the monthly report was not available.

The Secretary was not present and the minutes from the previous meeting were not available. Tim Fahey advised that they were available on the website. Per the membership report, there are 47 total members (including spouses), 2 life members and 1 honorary member.

Adam Miller was introduced to those in attendance. He is the regional director of the Coastal Conservation Association for Lake County. He gave a brief presentation about the organization and asked that the club consider working closer with them. Tim Fahey advised that no decision could be made due to the lack of officers but that it would be discussed at the next Board of Directors meeting.

Club picnic – Frank Matousek reported on the details for the upcoming picnic on April 11th at Wooten Park in Tavares. Approximately 25 people have signed up to attend.

Public meetings – Ed Rapisardi reported that the April program will be Jon Cave and an associate. 32 people have signed up for the casting classes that will begin at 3:00pm. The club will supply pizza for dinner. Jon Cave will also be the speaker for the meeting at 7:00pm.

Doug Dombek announced that he had received a partial refund for a reduced rate for the Bahia Honda trip and that he had refund checks for six people. There was no discussion about the May trout trip to North Carolina.

Dave Ferris reported that the Dads For Boys event was very successful and he thanked all who assisted. Several pieces of fishing equipment were donated to that group. Other members promised to give Dave other rods and/or reels for the group in the near future.

Tim Fahey reported that the freshwater trip will be on the morning of the picnic at Wooten Park.

Tim advised that the saltwater trip will be announced in an email by Tom Green later on in the month.

New Business – George Hintz asked if anyone was familiar with an Elks Club Youth Camp in Eustis. Ed Rapisardi and Dave Ferris provided information that it had not been appropriate for the club to participate with that camp in the past. George said that he will try to explore if conditions had changed.

George Hintz reminded members that he needed photos for the website.

The 50/50 was not held because Charley was not there and no tickets were available.

The meeting was adjourned at 0902.

Submitted by Tim Fahey.
 
The Club welcomes any questions, comments, complaints, ideas, whatever -- just contact us at contacttcff@aol.com
 
--------- Fishin' Buddy Program ---------
Based on a program set up by the Mangrove Coast Fly Fishers to encourage its boat owners to go fly fishing with those who do not have access to boats, the TCFF is modifying its Fishin’ Buddy Program to be less restrictive as to when and where members fish.

The Boat Owners signing up will be acknowledged at the Breakfast and Evening meetings and on the TCFF Website. It will be up to the Club Member wanting to fish to contact the Boat Owner, compare fishing styles, etc., and, by mutual agreement, whether or not to fish.
(As always, it is appropriate to share expenses.)
Boat Owner Gary Christie
Days available for fishing: Monday and Friday
15' bass boat
Areas Fished:  Local Lakes
Boat Owner Bill Kirchner Days available for fishing: Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday
16.5 ft Fisher
Areas Fished:  Harris Chain of Lakes
Boat Owner Bob Strunc Days available for fishing: Tuesday and Friday
Grumman 17' bass boat w/50 HP
Areas Fished:  Lake Harris
For information or to sign-up as a Boat Owner wanting to participate
in this program, contact Frank Matousek.

 
--------- Fresh Water Fishing Trip ---------
Herlong Park/Lake Griffin
May 9th

We will launch at Herlong Park in Leesburg. Take 441 to Leesburg. The park and boat launch is on the North side of the road about across from the Cutrale Orange Juice Factory. You will notice it by the Old Train Engine on display. The canal outlet leads to Lake Griffin.

There is plenty of opportunity for Kayakers and Canoeists. The canal surrounds the park, and the bank is clear, and walkable, with adequate clearance for controlled back cast. The boat launch ramp is marginal. A lightweight aluminum boat and trailer should be OK, such as my 16 footer, but a heavy fiberglass or pontoon boat may have trouble due to low lake level. We will break for lunch at 1130, and Chef Duke d'Dog will put on his

For Information, contact Bob Strunc.
 
--------- Saltwater Fishing Trip ---------
Fort Island Gulf Beach (Crystal River)
Week of May 20th

For wading, kayaks and boats. Exact date will be announced at the Wednesday Evening Meeting depending on the weather and tides. There are plans to have a shore lunch.

For information or to sign up, contact Tom Green.

 
Near Term Calendar (For long term calendar with full details, Click Here.)
(Special events are in Blue)
  • May 1st (Wednesday) -- Monthly Breakfast Meeting. The Pembrook Grill of Pembrook Fairways, Leesburg.
  • May 1-4, 2013 -- Club Bahia Honda Fly Fishing Trip. The Florida Keys. Contact Doug Dombek for information or to sign-up.
  • May 9th (Thursday) -- Club Fresh Water Fishing Trip. Lake Griffin at Herlong Park in Leesburg. Shore fishing along with small boats, kayaks and canoes. For Information, contact Bob Strunc.
  • May 15th (Wednesday) -- Note venue change. Wednesday Evening Meeting. Wildwood Community Center. 7:00pm. Doug Dombek will be talking about fly lines and tippets.
  • May 17th-24th -- Club Freshwater Trip. Cherokee, North Carolina. Contact Tom Green for information.
  • Week of May 20th -- Club Saltwater Fishing Trip. Fort Island Gulf Beach (Crystal River). For information, contact Tom Green.
  • June 1st (Saturday) -- Florida Outdoor Youth Experience. Ocala Conservation center. 9:00am-3:00pm. This event's goal is to introduce Florida's youth to the many types of outdoor activities available to residents. From traditional hunting and fishing activites, to archery and shooting sports, to wildlife appreciation, kayaking, photography and more. Need fly tyers and fly casters to do demonstrations and instruction. Contact Tom Green.
  • June 5th (Wednesday) -- Monthly Breakfast Meeting. The Pembrook Grill of Pembrook Fairways, Leesburg.
  • June 13th (Thursday) -- Club Fresh Water Fishing Trip. Location to be determined. For Information, contact Bob Strunc.
  • June 19th (Wednesday) -- Wednesday Evening Meeting. Oxford Community Center. Patrick Delaney, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission biologist and expert on the reptiles will do a presentation on the biological side of fish and reptiles you might encounter.
  • Week of June 24th -- Club Saltwater Fishing Trip. Fort Island Gulf Beach (Crystal River). Contact Tom Green for information.
Florida Tides Info
Weather Info
Gulf Coast Weather
Hourly Weather
Club Photo Album
Topics For The Fly Tyer, Pattern Recipes, And Fly Tying Classes
Fly Fishing Trip Info And Trip Reports
Salt Water And Freshwater Fly Fishing Techniques And Hints
Links to Fly Fishing Information, Organizations, Magazines, Vendors, Etc. and Club Lending Library Inventory
Classified Ads -- Fishing And Boating Related Items, For Sale And Wanted

Comments or Questions about the Website or the TCFF, please email the Webmaster

Keywords: Marion County, Sumter County, Lake County, Ocala, Leesburg, The Villages, Gulf, Mosquito Lagoon, North Central Florida, Harris Chain, Holly Chain, saltwater, flyfishing, fishing club, fishing clubs, Lake Griffin, Belleview, Florida fly fishing, fly fishing Florida.