Spawn Blog

We get a lot of questions here at Spawn and in this blog we will continue to address them all. The topic of soaking fly tying materials came up this week and we figured we would dive right in. Soaking fly tying materials is a common practice among fly tiers, particularly when using natural materials like feathers or fur. Soaking these materials can help to soften them, making them easier to work with and manipulate when tying flies.

When soaking materials, it's important to use the right amount of water and to not leave them submerged for too long, as this can cause the fibers to become weak and break. Generally, a few minutes of soaking is sufficient, and it's important to squeeze out any excess water before using the materials. 

Some fly tiers prefer to add a small amount of conditioner or softener to the water when soaking natural materials, as this can help to further soften the fibers and make them easier to work with. However, it's important to use these products sparingly and to avoid using them on synthetic materials, as they can cause damage or discoloration.

One other note of importance is what to do with materials you have soaked and end up not using during that tying session. Before putting the materials back in storage it is a must that you let those materials dry completely. Once they are dry it is safe to store them without the worry of mold or rot.

While soaking can be beneficial and have practical applications for fly tying, the decision of whether or not to soak your materials ultimately comes down to individual preference. Some fly tiers opt not to soak their materials at all. However, for those who do choose to soak their materials, it is crucial to do so with care and consideration for each specific material's requirements.

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As tiers we know the importance of quality fly tying materials. It's not just about making the perfect fly, but also about creating a consistent product that can attract fish and increase your chances of catching them. 

Spawn Fly Fish has been at the forefront of creating exceptional fly tying materials for years. Our Spawn Simi Seal has been a game-changer in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) region, where catching fish consistently can be a challenge. But, the good news is that now more than ever the Spawn Simi Seal is not just restricted to the PNW. 

Spawn Fly Fish is taking things up a notch with the launch of our new "Dispensary Collection," which includes 12 must have blends. This collection is set to cure countless dubbing needs in the fly tying world, making it easier for anglers to create the perfect fly. Since the acquisition of the Spawn Simi Seal line over a year ago, the company has focused on ensuring that the product remains as amazing as it was when it was created in John's shop. Now that Pete has mastered the craft, it is time to expand and cover every need for Spawn Simi Seal across every fishery. Pete who has been tying and creating for decades calls this new collection "the best selection of dubbing for nymphs and scuds on the market, filling a color void that previously wasn't occupied." 

Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Spawn Simi Seal is a must-try product that will undoubtedly improve your fishing game. With the new "Dispensary Collection," anglers can now experiment with a wider range of colors, and the possibilities are endless. If you're looking for a high-quality dubbing material that is effective and versatile, look no further than the Spawn Simi Seal!

Shop these colors below!

Dispenser:

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/spawn-simi-seal-dubbing-dispenser-dispensary-collection 

Packs: 

https://spawnflyfish.com/products/spawn-simi-seal-dubbing?_pos=1&_sid=4f407f494&_ss=r&variant=40031441453119

 

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The salmonfly hatch is undoubtedly one of the most eagerly awaited events for fly anglers, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region. Although we don't get to fish the Deschutes regularly, every time we make the journey, it never fails to amaze us. Here shortly late spring and early summer will be upon us which is the time when the salmon flies emerge from the rivers and streams, presenting a bountiful feast for the fish and an exciting opportunity for anglers to hook big fish  on the surface. In anticipation of this year's hatch, we have compiled a SOLID assortment of flies, which have proven to be effective not just locally but also in waters across the country

 

• MORRISH STILL STONE SALMONFLY

The MORRISH STILL STONE is a popular fly for the salmonfly hatch, thanks to its realistic appearance and ability to float high on the surface. The fly is designed to imitate a stonefly, and its durable construction makes it a great choice for fishing in fast-moving water. It also is made of foam allowing it to continually float and get chewed on all day long with no issues! Overall this is one of our favorites!

Order Below: 

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/rios-morrish-still-stone

• NORM WOOD SPECIAL RUBBERLEG

The NORM WOOD SPECIAL RUBBERLEG is a versatile fly that can be used for a variety of fish species, but is a sure winner when it comes to salmon fly season. The fly is designed to imitate a stonefly or a grasshopper but inadvertently matches the hatch when it comes to salmonfly. Its rubber legs create a lifelike movement in the water that can attract fish from a distance. The fly is also easy to cast and can be fished in a variety of water conditions. Although it floats well we do recommend bringing floating for this fly!

Order Below: 

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/norm-wood-special-rubberleg

•  EMMA'S STONE SALMONFLY

The EMMA'S STONE SALMONFLY is a popular fly that is offered in several different variations but for purpose of this blog and the salmonfly hatch its salmon fly variation becomes a must have. Its realistic appearance and ability to float high on the surface. The fly is designed to imitate a stonefly, and its bright orange color makes it easy for anglers to see on the water. The fly is also durable and can withstand the rigors of fast-moving water. We are always a fan of combining both natural and synthetic products which this fly does!

Order Below:

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/rios-emmas-stone-salmonfly

•     4.  JUICY STONE - SALMONFLY

The JUICY STONE - SALMON FLY is a large, high-floating fly that is designed to imitate a stonefly. The fly is easy to see on the water and can attract fish from a distance, making it a great option for fishing in fast-moving water. The fly is also durable and can be fished multiple times without losing its effectiveness. We love the profile of this pattern and its true ability to float while the shimmer on the wings gives off a truer realistic feel! We also love the tail section of this bug with the biots. 

Order Below 

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/rios-juicy-stone-salmon-fly

 

• CHUBBY CHERNOBYL - PTERONARCYS

The CHUBBY CHERNOBYL - PTERONARCYS is a popular fly for the salmon fly hatch, thanks to its realistic appearance and ability to float high on the surface. The fly is designed to imitate a stonefly or a grasshopper, and its foam body makes it extremely buoyant in the water. The fly is also durable and can withstand the rigors of fast-moving water. Theres nothing special if we're being honest but this pattern day in day out continues to be a winner. Fill up the box with these are theres no doubt you will find success. 

Order this chubby below! 

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/chubby-chernobyl-pteronarcys 

• WATER WALKER DUO SALMONFLY

The Water Walker Duo Salmonfly is a popular pattern known for its effective use and ability to fish a dropper. The micro foam used in this fly creates a realistic appearance of the salmonfly's wings and helps it to float high on the water's surface, making it an ideal choice during hatch season. The tippet ring attached to the fly makes is to fish multiple flies making it a great option when the hatch is just getting started!

Order Below:

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/fulling-mill-water-walker-duo-salmonfly

• CHUBBY DUO SALMON

The Chubby Duo Salmon features a realistic-looking body with some thick foam. It has everything you love in a Chubby on steroids. The barred rubber legs we especially like as well as the addition of the tippet ring. The  This fly is particularly effective when fishing for trout but can also be used to target other species such as grayling and bass.

Order Below:

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/fulling-mill-chubby-dou-salmon

 

• BURKUS BBR SALMONFLY

This meticulously crafted bug is built  like an army tank and is the perfect imitation for catching those elusive fish. With its exceptional buoyancy, thanks to the high floating foam construction, you can rest assured that it won't sink or get waterlogged. The strategically placed knotted legs create a killer silhouette on the water, enticing those explosive takes that every angler craves. 

Order Below 

https://spawnflyfish.com/products/fulling-mill-burkus-bearback-rider-salmonfly?_pos=4&_sid=3f0f9e0d2&_ss=r

• BIG SKY SALMONFLY

This pattern is packed with triggers that are sure to attract even the most cautious fish. While the eyes may not be our favorite feature, the overall design of the fly is a winner that we absolutely love. With the BIG SKY SALMONfly, you can fish with confidence and increase your chances of success on the water!

Order below: 

https://spawnflyfish.com/products/fulling-mill-big-sky-salmonfly?_pos=3&_sid=3f0f9e0d2&_ss=r

 

• MCPHAIL ADULT SALMONFLY

This fly combines the best of both worlds, featuring a super buggy design that includes both a Sedgehog and an extended foam body. When it hits the water, it creates a satisfying "plop" sound and its silhouette on the surface is exceptional. Plus, it's designed by the renowned fly tyer, McPhail, whose skillful work is well-known in the fly fishing community. With the Sedgehog Extended Foam Salmon Fly, you can fish with confidence knowing you have a top-quality fly in your arsenal. This is a top 3 pattern for us! 

Order below:

https://spawnflyfish.com/products/mcphail-adult-salmonfly?_pos=2&_sid=3f0f9e0d2&_ss=r

• LIBBY'S SALMONFLY\

Designed to be a highly buoyant fly, this pattern stands out from the typical foam imitations out there. Its natural appearance makes it a great choice for those fish that have seen it all before. As avid fly fishermen ourselves, we understand the importance of having a more natural fly that differentiates itself, and this Fly Fish Food Salmonfly pattern is just that. Remember although this fly is highly buoyant you will need floatant and it can get pulled under in areas of fast moving water! 

Order Below:

https://spawnflyfish.com/products/fulling-mill-libbys-salmonfly?_pos=1&_sid=3f0f9e0d2&_ss=r

• TRIPLE STACK SALMON FLY

This buoyant foam fly is the perfect choice when you need a reliable pattern that will catch the attention of even the most discerning fish. As avid tiers ourselves, we love the realistic texture and stacking of materials that make this fly so visually appealing. It's not over-the-top, but it has all the elements we look for in a high-quality fly. Even though it may have been last on the blog, the Triple Stack Fly is definitely at the top of our list of must-have flies. Try it out and see for yourself how effective it can be.

https://spawnflyfish.com/collections/new-products/products/fulling-mill-triple-stack-salmonfly

 

We have several more flies that are also phenomenal options! Checkout all the flies in one place with this link below!

https://spawnflyfish.com/search?q=salmonfly

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As outdoor enthusiasts and advocates for youth engagement in recreational activities, Spawn Fly Fish and Klineline Kids Fishing are thrilled to announce an exciting news that we've been working on behind the scenes. We believe that it's important to introduce kids to the joys of outdoor activities, and we're excited to share our latest project with the world.

After planning and coordination, we're proud to announce that EVERY kid who signs up for this year's Black Lake Fishing Derby in Ilwaco will go home with a brand new rod and reel combo! That's right - every single kid who participates in the derby will get their own gear to take home and continue exploring the world of fishing.

Our team recognizes that access to gear can be a barrier to entry for many young people who are interested in fishing, and we're committed to breaking down those barriers. By providing every kid who signs up for the derby with their own rod and reel, we hope to encourage more kids to get outside and participate in outdoor activities like fishing.

At Spawn Fly Fish, we're passionate about introducing young people to the joys of fly fishing and fishing in general, and we believe that this project will help ensure that the love for the outdoors is passed down from generation to generation. By providing kids with the tools they need to fish independently, we hope to empower them to explore the outdoors and create lifelong memories with friends and family.

Partnering with Klineline Kids Fishing has been an incredible experience, and we're proud to work alongside them to make this project a reality. Together, we're committed to ensuring that every kid has the opportunity to experience the thrill of fishing and create lifelong memories in the great outdoors.

Again, we cannot thank Klineline Kids Fishing and Bill Czech enough for their support and help in making this happen!

Sign up below!

https://ilwaco-wa.gov/black-lake-fishing-derby-registration/

 

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Chum fry migration is an annual event that occurs in the Pacific Northwest each spring. These tiny fish are an important part of the ecosystem, and their migration has a significant impact on the food chain and the health of the environment. In particular, chum fry are an essential food source for Sea Run Cutthroat populations in Puget Sound where we grew up.

Chum fry are the juvenile form of Chum Salmon, and they begin their migration from their freshwater spawning grounds to the saltwater estuaries and bays where they will continue to grow and mature. This journey can be perilous, as chum fry are vulnerable to predation from a variety of aquatic and avian predators. Despite the risks, chum fry migration is critical to the health of the ecosystem. As they move through the estuaries, the fry consume large amounts of plankton and other small organisms while providing nutrients to all the species that rely on these fish as food.

One species that benefits greatly from the chum fry migration is the Sea Run Cutthroat, one of our favorite species to target. These fish are known for their incredible fighting ability and their willingness to take a fly. They are also an important indicator species, providing valuable information about the health of the Puget Sound ecosystem.

For anglers, the chum fry migration is an exciting time of year. The cutthroat become more active and aggressive as they feed on the abundance of fry in the water. This presents an excellent opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts to target these fish and test their skills. In many cases you can find cutthroat crashing the surface chasing these fry along the beaches of Puget Sound.

At Spawn Fly Fish, we understand the importance of chum fry migration and the role it plays in the Puget Sound ecosystem. That's why we offer a wide selection of high-quality fly tying materials that are perfect for creating the best chum fry fly patterns. From hooks and feathers to dubbing and flash, we have everything you need to tie flies that will attract even the most elusive Sea Run Cutthroat.

If you haven't experienced fishing during the Chum Fry "hatch," then you're missing out on a prime opportunity to target some of the most incredible cutthroat in the Pacific Northwest. While matching the hatch is a crucial aspect of fly tying and fly fishing, it's essential to keep in mind that you don't need to limit yourself to exclusively using chum fry patterns during this time of year. We highly recommend bringing along some shrimp flies and other patterns as well. Moreover, the Chum Fry "hatch" presents an excellent opportunity to entice a cutthroat to take a fly on the surface. So don't hesitate to try your hand at surface fishing during this exciting time of year!

Chum fry migration is a critical event in the Pacific Northwest ecosystem, and it has a significant impact on the sea run cutthroat populations in Puget Sound. As an angler, taking advantage of this migration can provide a thrilling and rewarding fly fishing experience. At Spawn Fly Fish, we're here to help you make the most of this opportunity by providing the best fly tying materials and expert guidance for creating the perfect chum fry fly patterns. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, be sure to stop by our shop and stock up on everything you need for your next chum fry fishing adventure.

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