Spawn Blog

As dedicated anglers, we understand the thrill of chasing elusive cutthroat in our coastal rivers. After years of experience, we continue to unravel the secrets of these fish, especially during the challenging winter months. Coastal cutthroat can be unpredictable and always keep us on our toes, but by tweaking our tactics, we've discovered effective ways to find success in January.

Throughout most of the year, coastal cutthroat are often found in the frog water at the back of a run, where ample structure provides perfect hiding spots. These fish are known to be pool/structure-oriented making them a challenging yet rewarding target. However, during the winter months, their behavior changes as they focus on feeding on flesh and eggs being pushed downstream.

One key observation from our experiences is the importance of targeting runs with logs during the winter. Cutthroat tend to congregate in these areas, taking advantage of the abundance of food being carried downstream with the added familiarity of structure. When you encounter a log in the run, be sure to get your presentation down quickly and in front of the log. This tactic has proven to be highly successful in finding cutthroat during this time of year.

To adapt to the winter feeding habits of cutthroat, we recommend fishing with heavier nymphs, dead drifting streamers, and egg patterns. The key is to present your flies in a way that mimics the natural flow (we prefer walking speed) of flesh and eggs in the water. Experiment with different retrieves and depths to find what works best in each specific situation.

• Using heavy nymphs is essential for getting your flies down quickly to the feeding zone. Opt for patterns that imitate the local forage, and consider incorporating weighted flies or split shot to achieve the desired depth.
• Dead drifting streamers can be an effective way to entice cutthroat during the winter. Choose streamer patterns that imitate injured or dying fish, and experiment with varying retrieval speeds to find the most enticing presentation.
• Egg patterns are a go-to for imitating the natural food source of cutthroat during winter. These patterns can be sent downstream through the run, mimicking the eggs being carried by the current. Adjust the size and color of your egg patterns based on local conditions and the preferences of the cutthroat in your area.

As we continue to learn and adapt our strategies, targeting coastal cutthroat in January has become a rewarding challenge. Embrace the learning process, stay adaptable, and enjoy the thrill of pursuing this elusive coastal cutthroat in our rivers.

Read more

Family vacations are precious moments filled with laughter, bonding, and unforgettable experiences. But what if your heart yearns for the tranquility of the water and the thrill of catching a fish, even when the trip isn't specifically designed for fishing? Fear not, fellow anglers! With a little strategic planning, you can have your family vacation cake and eat it too – with a side of fishing. Here's a guide to mastering the art of preparing for a family vacation where fishing is an unspoken necessity.

Tips for Trip Preparation:

1. Always Pack Polarized Glasses: These are not just a fashion accessory; they're your underwater eyes. Polarized glasses cut through glare, allowing you to spot fish beneath the surface. Forgetting them could be the difference between a successful fishing outing and mere wishful thinking.
2. Travel Rod Case Exclusivity: Embrace the habit of packing exclusively in a travel rod case. Bring this case from now on for every trip even when there isn't a body of water within 100 miles to fish at. These cases are versatile and can carry everything from clothes to toiletries, ensuring your fishing gear blends seamlessly with the rest of your luggage.
3. Minimalist Gear: Resist the urge to bring your entire arsenal. Opt for two versatile rods that cover a broad range and a single reel with an extra fly line. Pack a few essentials like leaders and must-have flies in ziplock bags. Traveling light ensures you're ready to seize fishing opportunities without overwhelming your family vacation baggage.
4. Avoid Other Anglers: Avoid other anglers. This might sound dumb, but trust us. Do NOT go to the airport head to toe in Simms. You wont be able to help it, sooner than later you'll be discussing possible locations to find fish near your destination with other travelers. It will become clear you've scoured maps, reached out for local advice, and packed for success after extensive research. This will set everything off in the wrong foot and is simply avoidable.  

At Your Destination:

1. Blend In, But Not Too Much: Embrace every aspect of your family vacation. Participate in pool activities, enjoy socializing, and never turn down a tequila shot. Make the most of your time together to create goodwill for your fishing endeavors. This will wear everyone out, it will be fun and will also buy you time.
2. Early Morning Escapades: Rise with the sun for a peaceful fishing experience. Hopefully your family is so exhausted from all the fun the day before you will sneak out unnoticed. Take advantage of the serenity before the rest of the world awakens, the calming effect of the water and the dawn light will refresh your spirit.
3. Set Realistic Time Limits: While the "one more cast" mentality is familiar, adhere to a reasonable time frame. Ensure you're back in time for family activities and, most importantly, never miss breakfast. Balancing your passion with family time is key to a successful fishing vacation within a vacation.
4. Strategic Sharing: As your family becomes aware of your fishing pursuits, strategically share your experiences. Share a fish picture or two, express your joy, and let them be part of your passion without feeling left out. However, do not make it the focus. Instantly pivot the conversation towards the new day of adventures TOGETHER.

Midway Through the Vacation:

1. Earned Fishing Time: By demonstrating your commitment to family time, you may find opportunities for dedicated fishing moments. Your loved ones will appreciate your efforts, granting you the freedom to indulge in what you love without causing any interference.
2. Compromise on Locations: When the time comes to choose a fishing spot after your granted earned time, opt for compromise. Select a less ideal but still fishable location that offers a pleasant environment for everyone. Prioritize the overall enjoyment of the family while satisfying your fishing cravings. The last thing your loved one wants to do is sit on a rock while your obsessing over how great of a fishing location this is.
3. Time to go: Check in, make sure that everyone is having a good time. Body language should be easy to read and when your time is up, your time is up. Do NOT say I'll meet you there insisting youll be back shortly.

Mastering the delicate balance between family vacation and fishing passion requires strategic planning, commitment, and a touch of compromise. By seamlessly integrating your angling pursuits with family activities, you can savor both worlds and create unforgettable memories for everyone. So, pack your bags, follow these tips, and get ready for a family vacation that satisfies your love for fishing without missing out on quality time with your loved ones!

Read more

At Spawn Fly Fish, we're thrilled to announce an expanded selection of harder-to-find duck feathers that will undoubtedly pique the interest of avid fly tiers and enthusiasts alike. Our latest offerings include a range of exquisite feathers, such as Bronze Mallard, Barred Woodduck, Lemon Woodduck, Gadwall, Hen Mallard, American Widgeon, and Super Select Mallard Flank.

Traditionally prized for classic fly patterns, these unique feathers are now breaking into the modern fly tying scene at Spawn, sparking creativity and a renewed interest in incorporating these materials into contemporary designs. While they have been a staple for traditional flies, we believe that their versatility will inspire a new wave of innovative patterns, adding a fresh and exciting dimension to your creations.

For a limited time, we have a substantial supply available, and rest assured, our trusted supplier has confirmed that more will be on the way. This not only ensures that you have access to these exclusive feathers but also solidifies Spawn Fly Fish as one of the premier destinations for top-tier fly tying materials.

Whether you're a seasoned fly tier or just starting your journey, our collection of duck feathers is now available both in person at our store and online through our fly shop. To maintain the quality you expect from Spawn, some of these feathers will continue to be meticulously packaged and hand-sorted throughout the week.

Don't miss the opportunity to elevate your fly tying experience with these exceptional duck feathers. Visit us in-store or explore our online fly shop to discover the beauty and versatility that these materials bring to your tying bench. 

SHOP SPAWN TODAY!

Read more

We know you have read about 100 of these top gift blogs so far this season. They can be tough to get through depending on the outlet and sometimes are riddled with products you dont want or need. We hope this is not one of those and each of these products we have used extensively!

Here at Spawn Fly Fish, we recognize that many of our valued shoppers are not just seeking materials and fly fishing products for themselves but are also thinking about delightful gifts for loved ones. In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, we are excited to present our carefully curated list of top 5 gift picks under $25, many exclusively available at Spawn Fly Fish!

Whether you are treating yourself or introducing a fellow fly tier to the wonders of Spawn, these products are guaranteed to bring joy and excitement during the festive season. As you embark on your holiday shopping journey, consider these unique and affordable gifts that reflect the true spirit of Spawn Fly Fish.

1. Spawn Simi Seal Dispenser - $17.99 each
• Perfect for any tier worldwide, our Spawn Simi Seal Dispenser comes in four options, making it an ideal and unique gift for those who love to tie.
2. Cling Magnetic Fly Holder - Price: 17-24.99!
• This red-hot product has been a holiday favorite. A must-have for every fly fisher, it also makes for a thoughtful gift.
• Keep small dry flies and nymphs organized with the Cling Mini, a fantastic stocking stuffer at just under $17.
• For those bigger patterns, the Cling Plus is the perfect fit at just $24.99. A great gift for the fly-fishing enthusiast in your life.
3. Spawn Beanie - $23.99
• Treat yourself or a loved one to the warmth of our Spawn Beanie. Priced at $23.99, it's a stylish and practical gift for the holiday season.
• Available in three colors!
4. Oros 6 Pack of Indicators - $19.75 per tin
• A must-have in every angler's arsenal, the Oros 6 Pack keeps your indicators safe and is considered the best on the market. Available in three sizes.
5. Super Shank Selection 60 Pack - Only $14.99
• The ultimate gift for fly tiers! Our Articulated Shanks come in a pack of 60 at just $14.99, ensuring you stay busy at the vise during the cold winter months.

Don't miss out on these exclusive and affordable gifts that showcase your exceptional taste in fly fishing and your love for this community each of you have built. Thank you!

Read more

Fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest is a thrilling adventure, offering anglers the opportunity to target a diverse range of species such as coho salmon, black rockfish, chum salmon, sea run cutthroat trout, and steelhead. While skillful casting and presentation are essential, choosing the right fly color CAN make all the difference. In this guide, we'll delve into the top fly colors for each of these exciting species to help you maximize your success on the water. Follow along as we highlight our favorites!

1. Coho Salmon - Purple, Black, Pink and Blue are our favorites! Coho salmon, known for their aggressive nature, demand attention-grabbing flies. Purple, black, pink and blue flies are proven winners when targeting these powerful fighters. The bold contrast of blue and black patterns can trigger aggressive strikes, while the purple and pink entice even the most finicky coho in various water conditions into taking a bite. Whether fishing in clear or murky waters, having a selection of these colors in your fly box is a recipe for coho success.
2. Black Rockfish - White, Chartreuse, and Peach stand out as our favorites. Black Rockfish, found along the rocky coastal structures, are opportunistic feeders. White, chartreuse, and peach flies mimic the baitfish and crustaceans that these fish commonly prey upon. The reflective properties of white imitate small baitfish, while chartreuse adds visibility in murky waters. Peach, resembling the coloration of shrimp and other crustaceans, can be particularly effective when fishing near the ocean floor.
3. Chum Salmon - Pink, Purple, and Chartreuse stand out as our top 3. Chum salmon, with their unique spawning colors and voracious appetite, respond well to vibrant and flashy flies. Pink, purple, and chartreuse are top choices when targeting chum. The flashy nature of these colors can trigger aggressive strikes, especially when these fish are actively moving into the rivers. Be sure to incorporate these attention-grabbing colors into your chum salmon fly arsenal.
4. Sea Run Cutthroat - Peach, White, and Shrimp Orange: Sea run cutthroat trout, known for their elusive and challenging nature, are one of our favorite species to target. For us if we had to fish one color for the rest of our lives for cutthroat it would be peach, you simply cannot target this species without it! Peach, white, and shrimp orange patterns closely imitate the small baitfish and shrimp that sea run cutthroat prey upon. These subtle colors work well in both clear and slightly stained waters, providing a realistic presentation that can entice even the most wary sea run cutthroat.
5. Steelhead - Black, Peach, and Pink stand out as our favorite. For us a steelhead is a lot like a cat; it either loves the ball of feathers you stick in front of it or it couldn’t care less. Steelhead, the ultimate prize for many fly anglers, demand versatile and enticing flies. Black, peach, and pink are standout colors for these elusive and powerful fish. The timeless effectiveness of black patterns, the subtle allure of peach, and the vibrancy of pink all have their place in enticing steelhead to strike. Having a well-rounded selection of these colors for different water clarities will increase your chances of connecting with a majestic steelhead.

As you embark on your Pacific Northwest fly fishing adventures, remember that adapting to the preferences of each species is key. Experimenting with different fly colors and observing how fish respond in various conditions will ultimately refine your approach. These colors are our favorite but by no means are the only colors that work! Armed with the knowledge of our top fly colors for coho, black rockfish, chum, sea run cutthroat, and steelhead, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the diverse and rewarding fisheries of the Pacific Northwest!

Read more