New! Orvis Silver Sonic Waders

SONIC WADERS PERFECTED

Orvis developed and patented the technology to construct waders using sonic welds, which are stronger than stitched seams, and are inherently waterproof as opposed to seams where threads are stitched through fabric. Their original Pack and Travel SonicSeam Waders were of minimalist design- no bells and whistles, just lightweight, durable waders- in fact so durable that original field testers are still wearing four-year old waders that have not developed a single leak.

To construct these waders, Orvis developed a proprietary nylon fabric that is extremely strong and abrasion resistant. (The polyester fabric used on conventional waders turns to ash when subjected to the sonic welding process.) In conventional waders, fabric is overlapped and sewn with thread, and the seam holes must then be covered with waterproof seam tape. Seams on Orvis SonicSeam Waders are edge welded with an ultrasonic proceses producing a slim, totally waterproof seam that is stronger than a conventional sewn seam. (Although the seams of the Orvis Sonic Waders are already 100% waterproof, they still use seam tape for added insurance.)

In fall 2012, Orvis will introduce their Silver Sonic Convertible Top Waders, with added features requested by guides and anglers who had grown to love the originals. The new Silver Sonics offer true ergonomically sculpted feet for more comfort and better fit, and more pockets, including a double airlock waterproof pocket for cell phones and compact cameras. A roll-down feature for the uppers transforms chest waders into waist waders instantly, without removing the suspenders. Seam strength has been improved even more, with a new process that offers 50% stronger seams.

WATCH VIDEO HERE

"Ok, I will admit that I have not been a big fan of Orvis waders. However, the sonic welded waders have been impressive. I will guide well over 200 days a year, these waders have held up to the severe thrashing of sliding over rocks, willows, beaver sticks, slamming in a car door, etc. This is the first wader that I would recommend without hesitation. Love the suspender system."

Bubba Smith
Head Guide
Fisheads of the San Juan

"The sizing is right on the money, I can't believe the difference in the size change, these are great! They are very light feeling on the body, breathe quite nicely and so far have not had any leaks. I also like the sizing down by the calf and the ankle which makes getting in and out of them very easy unlike some other popular brands. I am tickled to have the extra pockets as well- I use them all. These are a winner!

Wayne Aldridge
River Of Life Outdoor Adventures

The new Orvis Silver Sonic Waders are available now through Mad River Outfitters and the retail price is $259.00

PURCHASE THE WADERS HERE!

Mad River Outfitters

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

admin@madriveroutfitters.com

www.madriveroutfitters.com

New- Sage CIRCA Fly Rods

Introducing the new SAGE Circa Collection

If you're a devotee of the casting nuances of the slow-action rod, a student of it's historic ties to our sport, or just like the thrill of moving in close to actively feeding fish, consider the new CIRCA a reward for your years of dedication. But be warned: the CIRCA does not mimic the type of slow action that has so far defined the category- overly soft, willowy and flat. Instead, thatnks to Konnetic technology's ability to compact and align more carbon fibers into a smaller diameter blank, Sage was able to design a radically narrow taper throughout the length of the rod, resulting in a consistently slow, yet responsive action from butt to tip. The new CIRCA is a technologically advanced slow-action rod that honors your slower, more deliberate casting style, yet is still every bit Sage.

Some people confuse fast-action rods with casting proficiency. Fact is, it takes more skill and proper technique to master a slower action, a truth many venerable dry fly purists are only too happy to confirm. IN the hands of a seasoned caster, the CIRCA simply comes alive. Casts are methodically smooth and graceful, yet pleasantly crisp and purposeful. The CIRCA's wider loop and telltale sensitivity gives you the precision control needed for delicate presentations. When you first pick up a CIRCA, you'll swear your hands and eyes are playing tricks on you; it simply can't be this slender and light. This little rod is the definition of "fishy", and if you're not a slow-action fan yet, you soon will be.

For those wondering why a company renowned for making high-performance fast-action rods has opted to focus their considerable expertise on the creation of an all-new, advanced slow-action trout rod, the answer might surprise you: Thanks to the development of Konnetic technology, they can now do "slow" the way it's truly meant to be done. You've waited long enough!

In 2012, Sage introduced the most significant evolution in fly rod development since their Generation 5 technology (the proven platform of their top performance rod families). Sage's new Konnetic technology combines proprietary aerospace materials with innovative manufacturing methods and processes. The impossibly lighter rods built utilizing this technique provide ultimate line control and accuracy due to enhanced "tip-to-hand" sensitivity and feedback, yet still retain Sage's renowned power and durability.

Konnetic technology incorporates a new composite material that was developed using an optimized ratio of Sage's proprietary resin to high modulus carbon fiber. Their Advanced Modulus Positioning System (AMPS) is a process that places the carbon materials to exacting tolerances for the greatest blank strength and efficient energy transfer throughout the shaft. Using their High Compression Molding (HCM) process, the blank's carbon fibers are compacted for optiumum density and precise alignment, simultaneously fusing the 50% lighter all-carbon inner core. From Konnetic technology, Sage has created a highly responsive and robust blank with significantly enhanced torsional stability and minimal vibration for casts that track effortlessly and accurately.

For 2013, Sage offers three rod families born of Konnetic technology: the all-new, advanced slow-action CIRCA trout rod, the revolutionary ONE rod (now including the new ONE Elite plus new Two-Hand offerings) and the ESN.

CIRCA Collection

* Fresh Water rods

* Advanced Slow Action

* Konnetic Technology Construction

* Green Tea Shaft Color

* Olive Primary Thread Wraps with Slate Trip Wraps

* Black Aluminum Winding Check

* Fuji Ceramic Stripper Guides

* Hard Chrome Snake Guides and Tip-Top

* Custom SAGE Snub-Nose, Half-Wells Cork Handle

* Vera Wood Insert and Black Aluminum Reel Seat

* Black Rod Bag with Iridescent Black Hills Gold Silkscreen

* 1 5/8" Desert Gold Colored Rod Tube with Black End Cap and Screw Cap

The new CIRCA rods come in the following models:

279-4  7'9" 2wt 4pc

379-4  7'9" 3wt 4pc

389-4  8'9" 3wt 4pc

479-4  7'9" 4wt 4pc

489-4  8'9" 4wt 4pc

589-4  8'9" 4wt 4pc

              CLICK HERE to view the new CIRCA Fly Rods from SAGE

Mad River Outfitters

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

admin@madriveroutfitters.com

www.madriveroutfitters.com

Florida Backcountry Trip

          Florida Backcountry Trip 2012

A great time was had in Florida despite some crappy weather and poor water conditions! Bottom line....3 out of 4 clients caught their 1st Tarpon and several other species of fish were caught including redfish and snook!

I hadn't done this trip since 2009 for a variety of reasons but started getting the "Florida Itch" round about February of this year. I called my buddy and guide Mark Giacobba and he had some dates open....so I booked it!

I was joined by Hal Goodrich from Springfield, Ohio, Larry Longerbeam from Tennesee, Howie Tracy from Texas and our old buddy Steve Ford who recently moved from Columbus to Cleveland. I can't say enough about this group of guys and they really made the trip special. Hal and Steve I have known and traveled with for years but Howie and Larry were newbies and I'm sure glad that I got to know them. Howie signed up for the Andros Bonefish trip this Fall and Larry will surely be back as well.

 The 2012 Florida Backcountry Group

This trip was 1st put together by Flip Pallot and I back in 2007. We originally booked it as a Florida Sampler trip and wandered around a bit.....but this year I took a new approach....and I like how it worked!

The Original Florida Sampler Trip- 2007

I began fishing in the Everglades in the early eighties. Long story but my Uncle Bill moved from St. Louis to Miami to attend the U of M in the Jazz Program. I started spending time there in the Summers and we fished the Glades and surrounding waters. His friend and saltwater legend Vince Maggio became like family to me also and between the two....I had flats boats and room and board almost any time I wanted. I feel like I grew up saltwater fly fishing in Flamingo! It was only natural that I included this magical place as part of Mad River Outfitters trip offerings.

I have now streamlined the trip and we fish 4 days out of the Flamingo boat launch in the Everglades National Park. We can head right and go out to Florida Bay and chase reds, snook and migrating tarpon and/or we can head left and go into the backcountry for the multitude of species found there including the resident tarpon that are always around. Each day I drive the group back to the launch to meet the guides and  then drive back to the hotel after the day of fishing. We stay at a really nice hotel in Homestead and all get together to go out to some great restaurants for dinner. Usually a couple of evenings we hang out and tie up a few leaders and talk about the day of fishing. Pretty laid back...and tons of fun!

  The boat launch at Flamingo

  One of my favorite views.....the Florida Backcountry

   This year we found some really great local restaurants that will be on the bill for 2013

I picked the group up at the Miami airport on Monday, April 30th this year and the prognosis was not good. It had been raining for days and the wind was blowing. I had talked to Mark and he wasn't optimistic. We went out for dinner and discussed our options.

1st day was a bust.....saltwater wise. The weather and water just wouldn't allow us to fish the salt.....but the day wasn't ruined! I trucked the guys up to Ft. Lauderdale and Mark and Dave Hunt took the guys to Sawgrass and they did some largemouth bass fishing. Turns out that the fishing was great and several of the guys caught the biggest largemouth bass that they ever had! Tons of bass and bluegill were caught and everybody had a great time. This is always a cool option....as any saltwater angler knows....the weather doesn't always cooperate!

Larry Longerbeam and a nice Largemouth on the 1st day      

Over the next three days, the weather and water did improve and fish were caught. As stated, three out of 4 clients landed tarpon....a few snook, a redfish or two and a variety of other species like ladyfish, blue runners and more.

Hal Goodrich and his 1st Tarpon

Yours truly and a decent redfish

I have been running trips like this since 1989 and something happened on this trip that had never happened before.....I will share it here.

The 4th day was definitely shaping up to be "the day". The weather was looking good and the wind had laid down. Driving out, we were all excited and could feel that this was our big tarpon day. Howie Tracy nor Steve Ford had caught a tarpon yet and I had high hopes.

One of our guides, Dave Hunt had a conflict and we had to bring in another guide for the day......I won't mention his name.

Long story short but this "other guide" had what seemed to be a battery problem at the dock. He brought his truck down and tried to jump the battery to get the boat started. That didn't work. He then banged around on the motor for a bit and then decided that his starter was bad. He informed us that he had been having problems with it for a while.....and that he wouldn't be able to fish. He packed up his stuff and headed home.

I was stunned! Never in my nearly 24 years of conducting trips have I been in this situation.

Standing at the dock in the middle of the Everglades with two clients and nowhere to go. Man I felt bad for my guys and knew I had to do SOMETHING.....but what?

Long story short, Hal and Howie and I walked over to the marina and wound up renting a small boat for the day. They took it into the backcountry and wound up having a decent day.....and Howie got a tarpon! Albeit as tiny a tarpon I have ever seen...but it was a tarpon.

I tell this story not to rip on the guide.....although I didn't like the way he handled the situation I did find out that he felt really bad (as he should have). I tell this story because Hal and Howie helped to make a REALLY BAD situation for me into something that worked out ok. They were very gracious and understanding and didn't totally bust my balls. They knew it was not my fault and appreciated my efforts to make the most of the day. I can't say enough about these two guys and how they handled the situation. As Howie said: "We made lemonade from lemons".

Thanks Howie and Hal!

Needless to say I quickly re-imbursed them for the full day of guided fishing and the boat rental was on Mad River Outfitters.

I also want to thank Mark Giacobba and Dave Hunt...our guides. They are both really great guides and do a great job with our clients. I have worked with Mark before on the Flip trips and have sent him quite a bit of business over the years. Dave Hunt was new to me but got rave reviews from the clients and my dealings with him were excellent. They are both secured as guides for the 2013 trip!!!

Captain Mark Giacobba of Glades Outfitters

Captain Dave Hunt and Larry Longerbeam

Anyways......it's safe to say that the new and improved "Florida Backcountry" Trip is back in the rotation!!

A good time was had by all, some good food was eaten and a few fish were caught. I really enjoyed the trip and I know that all of the guys did as well.....they told me so!

2013 dates and info posted here! Thanks for reading and if you might be interested in joining me in South Florida....give me a call or shoot an e-mail to the shop. If you can't wait until then for a dose of salt....I'll also be hosting the Andros Island Bonefish Trip in November.

Now....off to visit Kelly Galloup in Montana for some of that easy fishing with a group of 10 anglers. Pics and story upon my return.

Brian Flechsig
July 2012

Click Here for details on this trip

Click Here for photos of Florida Trips

Click Here for details on our Andros Island Bonefish Trips

Click Here for photos from previous Bonefish Trips

Mad River Outfitters

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

                                                                    

614-451-0363

www.madriveroutfitters.com

MRO and Ohio Musky

For those that don't already know......Ohio is one of the top producing Musky states in the country. Huge populations of wild muskies exist in a variety of watersheds throughout the state and we have been doing extensive research (fishing) for a number of years now! There are Musky all over the place, and MRO is your source for catching this fish on the fly!

Our very own Pat Kelly is guiding folks for these fantasic gamefish in a few select locations in Southern and Central Ohio. He guides out of his "Clacka" driftboat and can accomodate 1 or 2 anglers although he prefers one as it allows for a better chance for folks to land the fish of a lifetime.

MRO's Patrick Kelly and his "Unofficial" World Record Musky caught on a Fly in Ohio

Pat charges $425.00 for one angler and $500.00 for two for a float trip. All equipment and flies can be provided and you need to bring your own lunch. He will meet you at a designated location which will be determined a day or so before the trip depending on current conditions. He will not tell or advertise the names of the rivers that he fishes...and he shouldn't. He won't even tell us and we appreciate that...if you know what we mean.

You won't find a ton of information on this service on our website and this is on purpose. We are looking for a small, select group of dedicated Musky anglers and he only guides 1 day per week during the prime seasons....if that much. We are not looking to overfish or take advantage of this incredible fishery here in Ohio. If you are interested, please give us a call at the shop, 614-451-0363 and we'll be  happy to answer any questions.



Below is a short story written by our friend and customer Don Gregory. Don has been out with Pat three times now and this is an account of his trip on Monday, May 21st:

"The musky, fish of 10,000 casts, fish of dreams--- mine anyway.
While sliding the drift boat into a small Appalachian creek barely ankle deep at the put-in, I find it hard to believe that the piscatorial predator at the apex of the food chain could actually be living here. But always trust the hunch of Musky Pat, particularly when he guided you into your first musky on the fly.

Well… 10 minutes later, and within sight of the truck, a musky t-boned my oversized fly and I actually remembered to strip set. A musky caught, the pressure off. Did I sleep through my alarm?
A few dozen casts later, a second take. The hook set led to a series of gill rattling jumps and ferocious headshakes. A thick female well over 3 feet long eventually yielded to my sage 10 weight, and my personal best landed in the oversized net. Should we stop with perfection having only fished the length of a football field or simply sip a cold one to calm down before pressing on? Not a hard decision.

Another vicious strike and a THIRD musky fought with attitude all the way into the net. 3 for 3. A perfect day—right here in the Buckeye State.

My daddy taught me that it is sometimes better to be lucky than good. Well with Pat Kelly as your musky guide, you are lucky indeed."

Don Gregory- Columbus, Ohio

Don Gregory on a guide trip with Pat on 5/21/12

Please remember that we also feature Musky fishing up on Lake St. Clair with Captain Brian Meszaros. He is a Musky "Guru" in his own right and St. Clair is regarded as one of the top Musky destinations in the country.

Captain Brian and a Happy client on a St. Clair guide trip.

Musky season opens June 1st on Lake St. Clair and trips are booking now!!!

Click Here for information on Fly Fishing Lake St. Clair with MRO

 
 

Mad River Outfitters

Your source for Musky on the Fly!

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

http://www.madriveroutfitters.com/

admin@madriveroutfitters.com



MRO Featured in Local Newspapers

"Retail and Internet Presence Pays

Off with Record Sales"

By Andrew Miller - ThisWeek Contributing Writer

(originally published in local "This Week" papers on Tuesday, May 15th)

Cincinnati native Brian Flechsig has helped define central Ohio as a fly-fishing mecca while building one of the top fly-fishing shops in the country.

Mad River Outfitters, at 813 Bethel Road, consistently records national sales in the top 10 for fly fishing, thanks to a thriving Internet business as well as a professional retail shop, according to Flechsig.

“We’re one of the top 10 fly-fishing operations in the country,” he said. “Most people think of a fly store as a mom-and-pop shop with just a few things and people sitting around talking and tying flies.

“But we’re very serious here, with a full-time shipping manager and full-time web manager. So not only do we maintain an extensive retail store, but also

an extensive online store with dozens of packages shipping out around the world daily.”

Flechsig said one of his keys to success is what he calls the umbrella.

Mad River Outfitters offers retail and online sales, guides fly-fishing tours locally, nationally and internationally, and produces instructional courses and DVDs.

“I’m hosting our annual spring Tarpin trip in the Everglades right now,” he said earlier this month. “We do these trips all over the world, South America – a lot of trips to Brazil for Peacock bass, in the Bahamas.
“We operate a full-blown guide service, including about 16 guides working for us throughout the Great Lakes region, so if you can’t afford a week to Montana or wherever, there are trips you can hop in your car and do on a weekend.”

According to Flechsig, fly-fishing has always been labeled as something that is only for trout fishing.

“Everyone associates fly-fishing with trout and snow-capped mountains, but I produced a video about 10 years ago called ‘Carpin’’ that was all about catching carp on a fly rod,” he said. “I got a lot of hate mail about it because people didn’t like that I was catching a trash fish on a fly.

“If you’re open to fishing for things other than trout, then Columbus becomes a fly-fishing heaven. There’s carp and bass all over the place here.”

Being innovative, such as teaching people to fly-fish for the local fish population, working hard, and hiring committed employees, Flechsig said, are the other keys to his success.

“I was 24 years old when I quit my job, borrowed money to start this business, and opened the doors that December in 1994,” Flechsig said. “I paid the bank off in two years and haven’t owed anyone a dime since. I’ve been very lucky, but it took a lot of hard work and thinking outside the box.

“I have some very loyal and hardworking employees who have believed in me and my dream. If it weren’t for their help and the help of great friends, I don’t know where we’d be.”

The retail store was recently remodeled and expanded and Flechsig said a new website design is under way.

“I think the future holds growth for us, that expansion will be at the remodeled store but mostly through the Internet,” Flechsig said. “After 18 years, I’m just really learning how to do this now, so if we’re halfway through, then the second half is sure to be even better.”

For more information visit www.madriveroutfitters.com.“If we can play even a small part in that, we want to. We want to keep doing this because we truly believe in it.”

Mad River Outfitters

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

http://www.madriveroutfitters.com/

admin@madriveroutfitters.com

News and Specials

Howdy Friends! Just a quick update on the "new" shop and some great promotions for May.

Well, our shop "remodel" is finally complete and we couldn't be more excited!! It's a whole new ballgame around here. We have greatly improved the look and feel of the shop here in Columbus and it's working! We have seen a significant impact on Sales....especially in the clothing departments.

Now...we move on to the website. Our site will be getting a major facelift and improvements in the months to come. Keep your eyes on www.madriveroutfitters.com.

Here's a few shots of the "New" Mad River Outfitters

Shop MRO for Mother's Day?

That's right friends! Think of MRO for your Mother's Day Gift and we'll save you 20%

Stop in the shop and pick up a coupon.....or simply place an order online and mention the "Mother's Day Promotion" in your "Order Notes"

Test Cast an Orvis Fly Rod

Suncloud Eyewear Promo

*place the order online and mention this promo in your "Order Notes". The website won't calculate but WE WILL when we ring you up!

20% OFF Orvis "Outfits"

Order any Orvis Helios, Access or Superfine Rod along with an Orvis Reel and Orvis Fly Line and we'll knock 20% OFF!!

Let us know which hand you reel with and we'll get it right!!

Mad River Outfitters

813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

www.madriveroutfitters.com

admin@madriveroutfitters.com

Steelhead Season!!

Steelhead Season is On!!!

Truth is...it has been for a while.

Guides have been out in full force the past few weeks with clients but have also been catching fish for months now. The Erie streams really never froze this "winter" and we have had steelhead around. January and February saw some of the best fishing in years!

Regardless....fishing right now is pretty hot both in Ohio and Michigan and folks are out having a blast!

Last week we set old friend J.B. Howard and his crew up with SAO head guide Patrick Robinson. Of course we know Patrick always does a great job...but here is what J.B. had to say:

"Great day with Patrick - tough (warm) conditions but we persevered - headed back next week and look forward to several fall trips...

As always your endorsement of Patrick was understated - he was extremely hospitable, hardworking & competent - an ideal guide to spend a day in the water with....

Thank you all & please find a spot on the MRO site for our steelhead:)"
JBH

Always nice to get great feedback from happy clients......and yes we found a place for your pictures!!!




No doubt though...with the unseasonably warm weather we have been experiencing, we could be looking at an early close to the season. We'll see. Already guides starting to bang some really great smallies which is definitely an indication. Above is Rick Gostel last Friday with J.B.'s group. We should still have some decent steelhead fishing to be had for a few weeks but if you are thinking of a trip yet this year.....do it soon!!


Click Here for information on our Guide Trips


Click Here for current fishing reports on the Erie Tribs

Michigan Steelhead Trips - Muskegon River

Our 1st run up to the Muskegon was a success. 22 fish landed in two days for Tony Nguyen (right) and Mick McMillin.....even despite 80 degrees and bright as a nickel conditions.

Mick McMillin on the early Muskegon Trip!

Our 2nd trip heads up April 1st with a full group hosted by Patrick Kelly. Full report and pics surely to come! We also serve as a full booking agent for the lodge and can set up a trip for you at any time!



Click Here for information on our trips to the Muskegon River Lodge

As always, Mad River Outfitters is working hard to serve as your source for Great Lakes Steelhead on the Fly!



See our "Steelhead Central" page for great links to all of our products, services and trips

Mad River Outfitters
813 Bethel Rd.

Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

admin@madriveroutfitters.com