Spawn Blog

While many may assume that the lower sections of rivers and streams resemble unremarkable "frog water" during high tide, seasoned fishermen know better. The first week of August has proven to be a prime time for targeting coastal cutthroat in these seemingly inconspicuous areas, offering a thrilling and rewarding experience for those who venture out with their lightweight rods.

The retreating tide uncovers mesmerizing pools, riffles, and eddies that teem with life. These areas, previously hidden from view, hold the promise of encountering the elusive coastal cutthroat. With their distinct greenish hue and striking red slashes beneath their jaws, these fish are not only a delight to catch but also showcase the health of these ecosystems.

Outside of monitoring the tides, setting the alarm for an early morning adventure with coastal cutthroat is an angler's secret to success this time of year. The tranquil dawn hours offer cooler temperatures and calmer waters, allowing for a more stealthy approach to fishing. As the world awakens, these resilient fish begin their hunt for food, making it the perfect time to present your streamers.

When it comes to coastal cutthroat fishing, it's crucial to ensure your fly is in the strike zone. During this time of year that zone can be deep into the pools. These crafty fish are known to lurk close to the riverbed, waiting for unsuspecting prey to pass by. Patience and precision are key, as you maneuver your lightweight 4wt rod to control the movement of your streamer and getting a reaction out of these fish!

One of the most rewarding aspects of chasing coastal cutthroat is the opportunity to explore the lesser-known rivers and streams along the Washington coast. These hidden gems often remain overlooked by the masses, offering a sense of solitude and communion with nature that's hard to find elsewhere. Each fishing expedition becomes a journey of discovery, uncovering new pockets of pristine water and generally encountering the diverse array of wildlife that call these waters home.

As August rolls in, the coastal cutthroat fishing experience along the lower sections of Washington's rivers and streams becomes an angler's dream come true. The contrast between the seemingly still waters and the vibrant life beneath the surface adds an element of surprise and adventure to every cast. With lightweight 4wt rods in hand, anglers embrace the challenge of luring these captivating fish out from their hiding spots.

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Josh Phillips, one of the owners of Spawn Fly Fish in Ilwaco, Washington, recently traveled to Washington DC to testify in Congress on the challenges facing rural small businesses. Phillips spoke before the Small Business Committee about the need for clean waterways, access to public lands, the lack of infrastructure and housing in rural communities, as well as the need for more government support for small businesses in these areas. 

Congresswoman MGP, who represents Phillips' district, was present for his testimony and spoke in support of his concerns.

"I'm glad that Josh was able to come to Washington DC and share his story," Congresswoman MGP said. "The challenges that he faces are real, and they're a problem for small businesses all across our district. I'm committed to working with Congress to find solutions to these challenges."

Phillips' testimony was well-received by members of the Small Business Committee, and it is clear that his concerns are being heard. Congresswoman MGP is committed to working with Congress to find solutions to the challenges facing rural small businesses, and Phillips' testimony will help to inform this work.

In addition to the challenges of infrastructure and housing, Phillips also spoke about the need for more public land access and recreational fishing opportunities in rural communities.

"Public land access is essential for small businesses like mine," Phillips said. "We rely on public lands for fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Without access to these lands, our businesses would suffer."

Phillips also spoke about the need for more recreational fishing opportunities in rural communities.

"Recreational fishing is a great way to attract tourists and boost the local economy," Phillips said. "But we need more access to fishing waters, and we need to make sure that these waters are well-managed and protected."

Congresswoman MGP agreed with Phillips' concerns about public land access and recreational fishing opportunities.

"We need to make sure that everyone has access to public lands," Congresswoman MGP said. "And we need to make sure that these lands are well-managed so that we can enjoy them for generations to come."

Phillips' testimony was a powerful reminder of the challenges facing rural small businesses. But it was also a hopeful sign that these challenges are being heard and that solutions are being sought. With the support of Congresswoman MGP and other members of Congress, Phillips and other small business owners in rural communities can continue to thrive. 

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As the fly fishing season shifts gears and anglers gear up for new challenges, Spawn Fly Fish is proud to announce an exciting addition to our repertoire: Fulling Mill Materials. Our commitment to providing a comprehensive range of fly tying materials takes another step forward as we bring Fulling Mill's exceptional products to our shop. With an aim to become the ultimate destination for fly tying enthusiasts, this partnership marks a continuation of our journey toward offering a true one-stop shop for all things fly tying.

At Spawn Fly Fish, we take fly tying seriously. From marabou and rabbit to CDC feathers and beyond, our inventory has been thoughtfully curated to cater to tiers of all levels. However, we understand that fly tiers often form preferences for specific brands, and that's where Fulling Mill Materials come into play. We're excited to accommodate the unique preferences of our customers by ensuring that we have everyone's favorites in stock.

Our decision to incorporate Fulling Mill Materials stems from the impressive quality and variety they bring to the table. We've been thoroughly impressed with their products, and it's only fitting that we extend this selection to our customers. Whether you're seeking top-notch hooks, innovative synthetics, or premium feathers, Fulling Mill offers a wide range of materials that cater to every aspect of fly tying.

As autumn approaches, our commitment to providing the best in fly tying materials remains steadfast. We're thrilled to announce that we'll be including even more products from all the top manufactures, even having plans to carry the entire Hareline catalog in 2024. This means more opportunities for you to explore new textures, colors, and styles in your fly creations. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to expand our offerings to enhance your fly tying experience.

Spawn Fly Fish has always aimed to create a community of passionate fly tiers, where creativity and innovation flourish. With the addition of Fulling Mill Materials, we're taking yet another step toward nurturing this community. Whether you're a seasoned tier with specific preferences or a beginner eager to explore new materials, our shop is dedicated to being your reliable source for all your fly tying needs.

We're always excited to welcome top-quality materials to our family and to provide you with an even broader array of choices. Your passion fuels our dedication, and we can't wait to see the fantastic creations you'll craft using Fulling Mill Materials. Stay inspired, tie on, and get ready for a fall filled with creativity and exploration!

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Buoy 10 is a world-renowned salmon fishery that attracts anglers from all corners of the globe, eager to test their skills at the mouth of the mighty Columbia River. This time of year there is a dramatic increase in salmon numbers as they journey from the ocean to their spawning grounds, this fishery promises an unforgettable experience. While Buoy 10 is primarily known for conventional tackle fishing, success on the fly is entirely possible, and we're here to tell you how.

Early August presents its challenges, with an abundance of chinook salmon in deeper waters. However, as the summer progresses, the coho fishing becomes nothing short of phenomenal. One of the most thrilling ways to fish at Buoy 10 is wading out and casting off the beaches of Sand Island. Despite being on the Washington state side of the river, these beaches are technically in Oregon, so ensure you have the appropriate license. The incoming salmon hug the shoreline, offering fly anglers an excellent opportunity to target them up close. It's not uncommon to witness salmon chasing the fly right up to the beach, akin to Puget Sound coho fishing on steroids. Tides play a crucial role in this fishery, just as in any saltwater fishery, with Baker Bay providing a safe haven against the current. Salmon often follow the tide to optimize their journey upstream, so we recommend fishing different sections of the bay and the island depending on the tidal movement.

Another approach to fishing Buoy 10 is from a small boat or kayak, granting access to otherwise challenging-to-reach areas and allowing exploration of different river sections. Drifting along the edges of the islands in Baker Bay and casting towards the shoreline can yield exciting results. Always be mindful of the river's currents and tidal changes for your safety during your fishing expedition.

When it comes to fly selection, peach or chartreuse colored flies have proven to be effective in these waters, especially enticing coho salmon. Your presentation and retrieve speed are critical, with a go, go, go retrieve often being the preferred method. While you may not outstrip a determined salmon, unlike in the river, stopping your retrieve can make them lose interest. If you run out of room during a chase, simply recast and keep stripping.

For success at Buoy 10, a well-matched fly fishing setup is crucial. An 8wt rod provides the necessary backbone to handle the robust salmon species found here. Depending on the water depth and currents, a floating line or a sink-tip line can be handy, with the sink-tip offering versatility to cover various water depths effectively. Use a Maxima 20lb leader to withstand the salmon's powerful runs and avoid potential break-offs during the fight.

Fly fishing at Buoy 10 on the mouth of the Columbia River is undoubtedly challenging, but it offers a truly special reward for anglers seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience with magnificent Pacific salmon. Whether you choose to fish from the beaches, a small boat, or a kayak, the thrill of hooking into a chinook or coho is unmatched. So, grab your gear, embrace the challenge, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime at Buoy 10!

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Heron's Shimmerbou is an innovative new fly tying material that we have just added to our catalog. Designed specifically to enhance the visual appeal and swimming action of flies, the Shimmerbou stands out with its unique features and impressive performance.

One of the standout qualities of the Shimmerbou is its construction. Each strand measures a mere 1/69" in thickness, ensuring an incredibly lightweight material that won't add unnecessary bulk to your flies. Despite its delicate appearance, the Shimmerbou is reinforced with nylon, adding an extra layer of strength and durability to withstand the rigors of fishing.

The hydrophobic nature of the Shimmerbou is a key factor that sets it apart from other flash. This means that the strands repel water, allowing your flies to maintain their buoyancy and natural movement in the water. This hydrophobic property also reduces water absorption, preventing the flies from becoming waterlogged and losing their effectiveness. This also helps you cast larger flies all day long without ending up with a bad shoulder like he one I have. 

The Shimmerbou's most alluring characteristic is its irresistible shimmer. The metallic strands catch and reflect light, creating an enticing and lifelike appearance underwater. Whether you're imitating baitfish, shrimp, or other aquatic creatures, the shimmering effect adds a level of realism that can trigger aggressive strikes from fish.

With a generous quantity of 1000 strands per package, each measuring 10 inches in length, Heron ensures that fly tyers have more than enough material to work with. This abundance allows for endless creativity in creating patterns with varying density, length, and color combinations.

Order your Shimmerbou today and tie flies tomorrow!

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/hedron-shimmerbou

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