Spawn Blog

Oct 09, 2023

Direct from the Source: Words from Chris Adams on Designing Ahrex CA Bendback Hook

We were able to connect with Chris Adams over the weekend in regards to the launch of the NEW CA Bendback Ahrex Hook. As many of you know we are closely tied with Ahrex Hooks and love their collaboration with incredible tiers and designers like Chris.

After a great conversation on the benefits and functionality of this new hook we wanted to share with you some information provided directly from the sources! Here are some words from Chris!

"I think it's awesome to have a company such as Ahrex who will listen to one insignificant individual about a hook that works for them, and then present it to the world. The Ahrex SA258 CA bendback is based heavily on what I thought was the perfect bendback hook... a bent PR320. I have been fishing Bendback hooks for an Australian species called Barramundi for about the last 15 / 16 years, I have been fishing for 'Barra' a lot longer, but the results that came from employing a bendback fly to my fishing were outstanding. The Bendback allowed me to put the fly where the fish live which is usually in thick weed that's usually around dense underwater timber. These fish won't hunt the fringes and wont respect a fly that comes close, it has to be on the money. Equally as important from arguably the world's fastest implosive feeding fish, was a hook that had the rigidity to set the hook without relying on the fish turning its weight onto it.. anything short of an instant hookst was spat out and never looked at again. The SA258 and the PR358 had to build on how good the PR320 was, now that we were given the chance to improve an already awesome hook. A larger gauge and a saltwater finish is important for snag dwelling fish that if you give them more than a foot to get home... you had already lost, a slightly larger gape but not too much that it would create flex in the shank, an oversized eye is there to both accommodate a 80lb shock needed for Barra, but most importantly, the extra weight of the oversized eye is to assist the action of a hook that has the tendency to swim in an undesirable 'belly first' action. The SA258 and the PR358 have taken almost 3 years to come to fruition. I am sure Ahrex ( who was awesome through this) can attest to how pedantic I was with the design, probably adding another year onto its release while I kept going back to the drawing board to finalise the design. At the end of the day, I couldn't be happier with the final result, Ahrex has really come through and delivered a hook that I hope anglers all over the world can benefit from."

We hope that this information was beneficial and adds an extra layer of information into how to apply this hook to your fisheries! This style of hook does not have a lot of notoriety locally for cutthroat and salmon but we will 100% be testing this out on all our local waters!

Get yours today at Spawn Fly Fish and checkout Chris Adams on Instagram for more inspiration on this amazing hook! @ammo_flies

Oct 06, 2023

Introducing the Ahrex Hooks CA Bendback Series

At Ahrex Hooks, they are driven by a deep passion for crafting hooks that meet the unique needs of anglers worldwide. They also collaborate with fellow enthusiasts who share an unwavering commitment to innovation. Today, we are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our Ahrex Hooks offerings: the SA258 CA Bendback Series. This remarkable hook is the product of a fruitful collaboration with the seasoned angler and fly tyer, Chris Adams from Australia, who embarked on a quest to create the perfect bendback hook tailored for barramundi fishing.

In a recent blog Chris Adams opens the discussion with Ahrex by highlighting the versatility and precision offered by the bendback platform. This design is particularly advantageous for anglers who target predatory fish near structures. The key benefit lies in the ability to precisely position the fly where it needs to be, all without the constant fear of snags or weed fouling. This opens up a world of possibilities for anglers, allowing them to fish more effectively and with unwavering confidence.

The SA258 CA Bendback: A Heavy-Gauge Saltwater Hook: The SA258 CA Bendback is the larger sibling in this series, specially tailored for saltwater applications. This heavy-gauge hook boasts the ideal gape, delivering a solid hookset without undesirable flex. Its oversized eye serves a dual purpose: accommodating larger shock tippets for battling robust fish that dwell amidst structure and providing extra weight at the front of the fly. This weight distribution ensures a balanced fly that swims headfirst, a crucial characteristic that often triggers reaction bites.

The PR358 CA Bendback: Its Freshwater Counterpart: For freshwater enthusiasts and those targeting smaller game fish, the PR358 CA Bendback offers the same bendback design with a standard eye size. Spanning sizes from 6 to 1/0, this series caters to various freshwater environments and species. The PR358 CA Bendback features a sleek black nickel finish, complementing its freshwater focus and making it an excellent choice for anglers targeting bass, pike, and other freshwater predators.

Chris Adams's insights and design concepts played a pivotal role in bringing the SA258 CA Bendback Series to life. To further refine this hook, Ahrex also sought the guidance of renowned angler Steve Silverio and saltwater legend Bob Clouser. Their invaluable input ensured that the SA258 CA Bendback Series met the exacting standards of experienced anglers.

The SA258 CA Bendback Series stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation within the realm of fly fishing. Whether you're pursuing barramundi in the pristine waters of Australia, stalking pike in European lakes, or targeting any species that calls structure its home, these hooks are designed to elevate your success to new heights. At Ahrex Hooks, they take immense pride in crafting hooks that not only to withstand the rigors of angling but also exceed the expectations of dedicated fly tyers and fishermen. Shop all these hooks on our site and at fly shop today!

Photos from @ahrexhooks

https://spawnflyfish.com/search?q=ahrex+bendback

Oct 05, 2023

McKenna of Spawn Fly Fish Rates Smith Shoal Low Lite Yellow Lenses as the Best Sunglasses for Women Anglers in the PNW

The Pacific Northwest's stunning landscapes and abundant fisheries offer some of the most captivating angling experiences there are. For myself and other women anglers navigating the pristine waters of the PNW, having the right gear is essential. One piece of equipment that often gets overlooked is a reliable pair of sunglasses. After extensive testing and field use, I rate the Smith Women’s Shoal Low Lite Yellow lenses as the best choice for women anglers in the Pacific Northwest.

Our region is known for its moody, grey weather, including months of overcast days and intermittent rain showers. Smith's Low Lite Yellow lenses are optimized for low-light conditions, allowing you to see clearly even when the sun takes a break. These lenses enhance contrast, making it easier to spot fish, read water currents and detect subtle movements beneath the surface. This is particularly valuable when fishing on Puget Sound, rivers, lakes, and other coastal areas with varying water depths and conditions. The lenses effectively reduce glare from the water's surface, improving visibility and minimizing eye strain. Whether you're fly fishing on a serene mountain stream or casting from a boat in the open ocean, glare reduction is a game-changer. I don’t just wear these stylish sunglasses fishing; in fact, I use them every day – just in case!

The Shoal frames are designed to withstand the rigors of any outdoor adventures, making them a reliable choice for PNW anglers. Beyond their technical prowess, these sunglasses are stylish in design. I appreciate their sleek appearance, which adds a touch of elegance to any angling outfit.

For women anglers in the PNW, the right gear can make all the difference between a good day on the water and a great one. The Smith Shoal Low Lite Yellow lenses offer the perfect blend of clarity, protection, and style. They're more than just sunglasses; they're an essential tool for unlocking the beauty and abundance of the Pacific Northwest's angling experience. Next time you're preparing for a fishing adventure in this region, consider the Smith Shoal Low Lite Yellow lenses and experience the difference they can make in your angling pursuits. Available at Spawn Fly Fish!

Oct 04, 2023

Trout Stocking in Ilwaco: A Bounty of Opportunities in Lakes

Our home of Ilwaco is nestled along the stunning pacific coast of Washington which is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Among the many attractions, fishing in the area's lakes stands out as a fantastic opportunity for both locals and tourists. In this blog, we'll shine a spotlight on the recent trout stocking efforts in the region, specifically in Black Lake, Snag Lake, and Western Lake, which have received a total of 2,400 rainbow trout. We'll also delve into the fishing opportunities from shore and small watercraft, reveal our top fly patterns, and offer some valuable tips to enhance your angling experience.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has been hard at work enhancing the angling experience in Ilwaco by stocking these lakes. Recently, a substantial number of trout were stocked to provide ample opportunities for both seasoned anglers and newcomers to enjoy this fantastic sport. "· Pacific County — Cases, 1,000; Black, 2,000; Snag, 200; and Western (Radar Hill Pond), 200" per WDFW website!

Black Lake: A whopping 2,000 trout were released into the waters of Black Lake, making it a prime destination for anglers. Right in town!
Snag Lake: Snag Lake received a generous stocking of 200 trout, offering a quieter and more intimate setting for those who prefer a peaceful angling experience. 2.80 acre Lake!
Western Lake: Western Lake also received 200 trout, providing an exciting addition to the angling options in the Ilwaco area. 4.50 acre lake!

Fishing Opportunities from Shore and Small Watercraft:

Whether you're a bank angler or prefer a small watercraft like a kayak or float tube, these stocked lakes offer plenty of opportunities to test your angling skills.

Shore Fishing: Many access points around the lakes allow anglers to fish from the shore. Look for areas with clear water and submerged structures where trout often congregate. Can be challenging for new anglers with limited back casting room. Black Lake has 4 docks that can be fished from.
Small Watercraft: For those with kayaks or float tubes, you can explore deeper waters and reach areas that may be less accessible from the shore. We have explored every inch of these lakes by kayak which will surely, increase your chances for success! Snag Lake and Black Lake both have very easy access for launching a small watercraft while Western Lake is a bit tricky but doable.

Top Fly Patterns For Success:

When it comes to fly patterns, having the right selection can make all the difference. In Ilwaco's lakes, these four patterns have proven to be highly effective:

Leeches: Leech patterns in various colors are a staple for trout in stillwaters. Black, olive, and brown leech patterns are known to entice strikes. We like to add a hot spot bead with these leeches!
Pink Dropper: Pink dropper pattern is a staple no matter the fishery locally, it utilizes Spawn products and is one that will need to be in your box no matter the lake you choose!
Caddis Pupa: Caddis pupa imitations in natural shades are excellent choices, especially during caddis hatches. Olive and tan patterns often work wonders. Can fish under a dropper or indicator!
Terrestrial: One good thing about stocked trout is that there is opportunity for tricking them without “matching the hatch” these fish will be hungry in their new environment and will be looking to eat anything that moves for a period of time!

Tips for Success:

To maximize your chances of landing a trophy trout in Ilwaco's lakes, consider these valuable tips:

Sink Tip or Lengthen Your Leader: Depending on the water's depth and the trout's location, a sink-tip line or a longer leader can help your flies reach the desired depth where the fish are feeding.
Vary Your Retrieve: Experiment with different retrieve techniques, including slow retrieves with occasional pauses to mimic the erratic movement of natural prey.
Observe Nature: Keep an eye on the water's surface for signs of insect activity, ripples, or rising fish. Trout often feed near the surface, especially during hatches.

Whether you prefer fishing from the shore or a small watercraft, there's a wealth of opportunities to explore and discover the thrill of catching trout. With the right fly patterns and some savvy tactics, you can cast your way to an unforgettable angling adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Ilwaco, Washington. Good luck! Here is a video from Snag Lake!

Oct 04, 2023

What is a B-Run Coho Salmon?

Here in SW Washington we love Coho Salmon. Sometimes you hear us and other anglers refer to “B-run” Coho and how much we love chasing them. We are always seeking to educate and if you don’t fully understand what we mean by "B-run" we hope this quick blog helps! A "B-run coho" refers to a specific type or run of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in the context of salmon fisheries. Coho Salmon, also known as silver salmon, have two primary runs or migrations in many regions: the A-run and the B-run. These runs are characterized by differences in the size, timing, and sometimes the life history of the salmon. Note that not all systems have both A-run and B-run and no matter the run you should be fishing!

Here's what "B-run coho" typically signifies:

Size: B-run coho salmon are generally larger in size compared to the A-run coho salmon. They tend to be older and have spent more time in the ocean, which allows them to grow larger before returning to their freshwater spawning grounds.
Timing: B-run coho salmon typically return to their spawning grounds later in the season compared to the A-run coho. Their migration and return coincide with a later period in the year.
Life History: Some B-run coho may exhibit variations in their life history, such as a longer time spent in the ocean or different spawning behavior. These variations can be influenced by factors like food availability, ocean conditions, and competition with other salmon species.
Fishery: In fisheries management, distinguishing between A-run and B-run coho can be important for regulating the harvest of these salmon. Managers may implement different regulations and quotas for each run to ensure the sustainability of the salmon population.
Agression: Now this is where things get less scientific but ask anglers and you will find this to be true. For one reason or another B-run coho seem to be far more eager to chase and attack a fly. Simply put they won't miss the opportunity making them one of our favorite fisheries!

It's worth noting that the specific characteristics of A-run and B-run coho salmon can vary by region and even within different river systems. Fisheries managers and biologists closely monitor these runs to assess their health and abundance and make informed decisions about conservation and harvest management. If you have not caught a salmon on the fly coho are an amazing place to start especially here in SW Washington! Historically speaking we start to catch B-run fish in early November even into Jan 1! Good luck and shop Spawn for all your Coho Salmon needs!