Monday, November 6, 2017

New Fishpond 2018


Fishpond is one of our largest vendors, and one of our favorites. They make some excellent and innovative gear for fly anglers and we are passionate about sharing their gear with our customers.

It's always exciting when the new season's offerings for the new year show up.....and they did today.

Here's a quick look at the new Fishpond items for 2018....be sure to hit the links to read all about them, and see more pics on our website.


* Quickshot Rod Holder



The closest thing to having a full time rod caddie on the water with you. We have been waiting for years for somebody to come up with one of these that actually works! This is probably one of the most exciting new "gadgets" for 2018 period.





* Arrowhead Retractor


Hand-crafted in Colorado and one of the finest we have seen. Reasonably priced as well for the quality.





* Headgate Tippet Holder XL


XL size was designed specifically for holding 4” spools. Will hold up to 13 regular sized spools or 5 of the super large 4" variety that we are seeing more of. Great for Maxima!





* Jackalope Rod Tube Case- 45"


The same great features and protection you’ve come to know in the Jackalope are now available in a longer 45” size. The Jackalope is by far our best selling travel rod tube and this is a great addition. Already had a few make the trip to Alaska and back!!!





* Cutbank Gear Bag


An absolute gear sanctuary on the water. One of the best in class that we have seen. Fishpond has always made some of the best gear bags out there and this one is no exception.





* Green River Gear Bag


Your gear deserves a place to call home. From keeping your gear organized so you can grab it quickly, to taking it out on the water fishing, Fishpond has designed a bag that covers your needs.





* Grand Teton Rolling Luggage


Fishpond's quest was to design the most functional, and feature rich luggage system for multi-week adventures to all parts of the world. Looks like they succeeded. 





* Teton Rolling Carry-On


A well thought out travel carryon system that is perfectly sized for your adventures in wild places or city jungles. Matches up perfectly of course with the Grand Teton Rolling Luggage.





* Gunnison Guide Pack


Designed for guides who carry every color, of every size, of every stage, of every bug known to modern science. Destined to become a best-seller.





* Burrito Wader Bag



The perfect bag for your marinated waders, and boots covered in river guac. You've seen and maybe used the "Taco".....now meet the "Burrito". 










813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363





Friday, November 3, 2017

Pieroway Switch Rods designed by Jerry French


"CQFT" Close Quarters Fishing Tools- designed by Jerry French



The Pieroway Renegade is an ultra compact switch series utilizing the laterst in carbon fiber technology and designed to be highly functional in close quarters fishing situations. Every detail from the rod tapers and actions to the handle styles are designed to minimize the learning curve and maximize fishing performance for new switch anglers and the experienced two-handed caster alike. Each rod is designed to match with an ultra compact Skagit or Scandi line, like the new Scientific Anglers Spey Lite, that can then be tailored to a wide tip window for maximum versatility with absolutely no guess work. (Extensive and thorough line recommendations for each on our website).

"Minimize the voodoo and maximize performance and fun". 


The Pieroway Renegade is offered in line weights 3 through 9 and feature unique lengths and taper designs to enable a versatile rod that is easly loading yet quick recovering. This is a rod series for the angler who enjoys fishing in many different locations. Characterized by pewter colored blanks, titanium guides with army green wraps, lightweight woven graphite reel seat and camouflaged rubberized cork handle with a removable bottom handle (3-5wt), this unique rod series gives the caster the option to use either handle style for easy two-handed casting or an awesome fighting butt. Simply remove the bottom handle to cast single hand Skagit or overhead without the bottom handle interfering with the running line. The Pieroway Renegade does it all with fluidity, precision and power.


From super small creeks for Brookies to small Bass, or out of the boat casting streamers, the Pieroway Renegade 8'6" 3wt, 9' 4wt and 9'6" 5wt are a triple threat designed to perform equally well in an overhead, single hand or two-handed Skagit with removable bottom handles. We are particularly excited about the 9'6" 5wt for swinging soft hackles around here for Trout!

Pieroway Renegade R863- 8'6" 3wt- Click Here

Pieroway Renegade R904- 9' 4wt- Click Here

Pieroway Renegade R965- 9'6" 5wt- Click Here



The 10'6" 6wt was designed to perform equally well overhead off the beach for sea run Cutthroat or single hand Skagit out of the boat for big Trout or Bass to swinging for pounders on the Rogue. This is our favorite choice around the Erie region for someone that wants a rod that excels at High Stick Indicator fishing but can then turn right around and swing like a champ! The 11' 7wt and 11'6" 8wt are the perfect close quarters casting tools, from the Pacific Northwest coastal rivers with bank-to-bank brush, to Michigan's Pere Marquette to swinging for big Trout in Alaska. The 12' 9wt was designed to be an ultra easy casting big gun perfect for all Pacific Salmon, Atlantic Salmon and Steelhead. Matched with the proper head and tip window, these rods are easy to learn and excel at Skagit style casting tactics. 

Pieroway R1066- 10'6" 6wt- Click Here

Pieroway R1107- 11' 7wt- Click Here

Pieroway R1168- 11'6" 8wt- Click Here

Pieroway R1209- 12' 9wt- Click Here



All of the Pieroway Renegade Switch Rods come with a padded rod tube, camouflage rod sock and feature an Unconditional Lifetime Warranty- with a $50.00 bench fee.


We are also extremely excited about the new "Spey Lite" series of lines from our friends at Scientiific Anglers. These new lines match up PERFECTLY with the Pieroway Switch rods and Jerry designed them as such. New also for Fall 2017 is the Sonar Leaders and TC Textured Tips.  These lines and tips, along with these new rods, have revolutionized "Trout Spey" and "Compact Switch" fishing!

Check out the new SA Spey Lite Scandi- Click Here

Check out the new SA Spey Lite Skagit- Click Here

Check out the new SA Sonar Leaders- Click Here

Check out the new SA TC Textured Tips- Click Here


For each of the Pieroway Rods, we have made exact line recommendations on our web page to help take the mystery out of what to throw on them. You can find these in the descriptions of each individual rod. If you have any questions though, we are always happy to help. We have spent alot of time now with these new rods, lines and tips and can help you dial-it-in perfectly!


Mad River Outfitters now features Pieroway Renegade Compact Switch Rods! In the shop or the online store.



Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Ohio Fly Fishing Guides/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363




Fishing Reports- 11/3/17


* Please remember to call us for more up-to-date or detailed information! These reports are not meant to be your one and only, daily source of information. They are typically general, even seasonal type reports and we currently don't have a set schedule as to when we update. Please, just because we don't update as often as we like, it doesn't mean that we don't care.

There are many different approaches you should take in order to get a good game plan for a trip or a day of fishing. Also remember that things change and these reports are what we know at the time of posting only. Keep in mind that we do express opinions and personal preferences from time-to-time which may be different from yours or what you may read elsewhere. Thanks for checking and don't forget to call us if you need any further information or a more up-to-date report. 614-451-0363

Thanks as always for reading our reports friends. As the weather gets more conducive we should be reporting more regularly....but we need your HELP!

Send any and all reports to admin@madriveroutfitters and we'll do our best to get them up.



Anybody up for some Bahamas Bonefish this Winter?


Join host Pat Kelly at the Andros Island Bonefish Club- "Land of the Giants"

February 17th- 24th, 2018

You get to Andros Island and we'll do the rest!

Click Here for further details, pricing and photos 




Warmwater

Well for the past week or so have really put a damper on the Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass fishing.  With the night temps being so low most of the water is in the upper 40's to mid 50's.  This has really made it tough to have good number days.  Fishing during the warmest part of the day in typical Fall holding water will treat you well if you take your time thoroughly covering water.  Fish this time of the year are focused on putting on weight before winter comes.  Targeting the local streams you will need at least an Intermediate sinking line like the Scientific Anglers Sonar Titan Clear Tip and large Shad color/style flies.  We really like the Modern Deceivers, Half and Half, Big Fish Deceiver, and really any Kelly Galloup articulated streamers. 

Pond fishing has definitely slowed down as the water is cooling off fast.  Fish deep with slow swimming motion flies like the Super Worm, Reaper, and J-Pig for bass.  Panfish are still being caught, but most are using an indicator and flies like Clousers, Crappie Specials, or big trout nymphs to get the job done.  

Pike fishing continues to be the best we have ever had.  Right now we are having a little problem with leaves especially if using the Jet Boats...good thing we have Drift Boats and rafts!  We have a couple more months of great Pike fishing, but we can fish all winter as long as the weather treats us well.  Make sure to contact the shop to book your dates! 

Speaking of Pike, we had the pleasure of spending some time on the water with Ryan Shea who owns Brookdog Fishing Company up in New York. Here is what he had to say on his Blog:


EXPLORING A SLICE OF OHIO

It’s been nearly a year now since I started following Josh McQueen of Mad River Outfitters on social media. I began following him because he was posting pics of some beautiful pike – all caught on the fly. Over time, only looking at those fish on a little screen became too much for me to take. When I found out they were natives and Josh gave me the back story on the fish – I had to experience this place for myself. What an awesome experience!

Small, clear rivers. Tons of timber and over hanging trees. Numerous challenges for the fly caster. My kind of place. It’s a tough watershed to fish even for the best of casters. However, all the risky casts and snags that sometimes follow are well worth it. Missiles shoot out of nowhere, startle the hell out of you, and just destroy your fly. This pattern persists throughout the day. Every down tree, root ball, and impingement presents an opportunity. We caught over 400 inches of fish in 2 days.

Accompanying great fishing was an even better guy. Josh is an awesome guide. He’s passionate about his fishery and his craft. I felt like I’d known him for years within minutes of meeting him. Oh yeah – within minutes of meeting him, I caught a pike over 30 minutes and the action didn’t stop all day. Josh told me that this place fishes well year so I’m already planning on another visit during the winter. Stay tuned!

Thanks Ryan for the kind words and for the shout out on your Blog.

Be sure to check out the Blog HERE

Check out Ryan's website HERE.



Mad River


Finally a little bump in flows on the Mad has pushed out some of the leaves and moss.  The only issue is that there are still leaves on some trees.  Unless we get a hard freeze after some rain we will be dealing with the leaves for another week or two.  There have been some fish caught, but with the low flows the fishing has been slow.  Look for fishing into the weekend to be better because of the slight raise of flows.  

Nymphing will be the best option if the water continues to drop.   For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9'6" 5wt to name a few.  The forecast looks good for a few chances of rain.  If we do actually get more rain pull out your streamer rod, sink tip line, and big flies.  We really like the Rio Streamer Tip, short leader, and articulated streamers fished on our 6-8wts.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamers will be Bottom's Up, Dungeons, Modern Deceivers, and Bunkers to name a few.  

**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible. 



Clearfork River


Clearfork Map


We have finally gotten a push of water to fire things up in the upper river.  Although it is not much look for the fish to start moving.  With the chance of rain in the forecast hopefully we will get the water table filled back up keeping good flows in the river.  They are letting water out of Pleasant Hill giving the area in the Park a good flush out of the leaves.  It is currently high, but as long as it stays under that 1.5' range it is safe for experienced waders who take care. 

Nymphing will be the best option in both sections.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9'6" 5wt to name a few.    For streamers we pull out the 6-8wts Rio Streamer Tip and the biggest streamers we can cast on these rods.  

Flies to have going into late fall will be nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ear.  Streamers will be Bottom's Up, Dungeons, Modern Deceivers, and Bunkers to name a few.  

**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible.



Clear Creek

Clear Creek Map


Clear Creek has not bumped as much as the other streams in the state, but is fishing ok.  With the forecast the levels should continue to raise.  The leaves are getting really bad so some water would be very helpful.  Like the other trout streams in the state nymphing will be the best option unless we get some streamer water.  For this we like to fish long rods, indicators, and two flies.  We have multiple options for great nymphing sticks.  Take a look at the Sage ESN, Redington Hydrogen, and the new Peiroway Renegade 9'6" 5wt to name a few.  For streamers we pull out the 6wts Rio Streamer Tip and streamers like Mini Dungeons, Wooly Sculpins, Buggers, Barely Legals, and Stacked Blonde.  Nymphs like Double Stones, Cranefly Larva, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Trophy Nymphs, Psycho Prince and your typical trout nymphs like the Prince, Copper John, and Hares Ears will get the job done.  

**Public Service Announcement**  The ODNR stocked trout during the month of October.  Most of the stockings are at the bridges.  There are many people who actually get to catch their first trout taking advantage of these stocking.  Keep in mind that these fish are the future of the fishery and must be treated with the utmost care.  We suggest keeping the pressure off or at least very light on these fish.  Make sure to pinch your barbs and handle them delicately keeping them in the water as much as possible.



Erie Steelhead

Gauge Links and Maps



We are now officially offering Float Trips on several Ohio Tributaries for steelhead. Click Here for details and pricing on booking a guide on Steelhead Alley.


Man are we fielding calls and booking trips for the past few days. Thanks!!! It appears that folks in the region have "Steelhead Fever".  With the new SA Spey Lite, Jerry French Renegade rods, and Scott L2H and T3H rods in the shop everyone has Steelhead on the mind.  We are really excited to "Get this going".

Our partner and steelhead mentor Jerry Darkes always says: "Steelhead season starts once the leaves are down and the water 'greens-up'". Looks like we are about there so get ready!!!

We have gotten a push of water and there are fish moving into the tribs.  This weekend looks really good especially with the forecasted rain.  Indicator fishing with tandem fly rigs bring the numbers to hand.  If this is your game then make sure your 10' 7wt is ready with a reel with good drag and a Rio Trout/Steelhead line.  Organize your egg box and make sure to have a good assortment of Wooly Buggers and Chicken Littles.  If you are new to steelhead fishing  booking a guide will take years off the learning curve.  Grab Nagy's Steelhead Guide book and do a little homework before your trip.  It's pretty much the Bible for Erie Steelheaders.


Flies for Indicator fishing will be Glo Bugs, Scrambled Eggs, Meth, and others.  In conjunction with these we like to fish nymphs like Wiggle Stones, Psycho Prince, Formally Known as Prince, and Steelhead Candy.  We also fish Wooly Buggers in the place of the nymphs in many situations. 

If you like to swing we have a load of new items in the shop.  SA Spey Lite lines, new flies, and rods have been keeping us busy.  Make sure to give us a call or stop in the shop to help you sort through all of this as it can be overwhelming on your own.   If you are looking to swing make sure to have pleny of Senyo's A.I and Flow Ryder along with the new Sili Leg Intruder for flies.  

Looking ahead things will continue to be great as long as we get some rain every few days.  We are booking guide trips daily so make sure to contact us soon to get your name on our calendar.  


A few shots from a successful float trip last week. Things are starting to happen!




Mad River Outfitters/Mad River Travel/Midwest Fly Fishing Schools

Fly Shop, Guides, Trips, Classes, Schools and more!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363

Friday, October 27, 2017

New Kuhl Kanvus Jeans

The Kuhl Kanvus Jeans are tough enough for any rugged outdoor activity yet stylish enough for the office. Quickly becoming one of our best selling pants.


The KÜHL KANVUS JEAN was developed by creating their own KANVUS -- long staple combed cotton, double twisted yarn -- to create a stronger, softer, more luxurious canvas than you've ever experienced.

The precise placement of the spandex gives the KANVUS JEAN an unparalleled recovery factor, with the comfort of your favorite sweat pant. Without any restriction to your mobility, you can climb, boulder and drop moves that would make Bruce Lee proud.

The agile, articulated KANVUS JEAN stays true to its tough canvas roots while heralding a new era in comfort and performance. It tapers from the knee down for a more modern fit. KÜHL's Born Free™ gusseted crotch and articulated knees allow freedom of movement and provide superior comfort. A stealth pocket keeps your phone hidden and secure.

* Fabric: main body: 98% Cotton 2% Spandex | 6.3 oz/sq. yd; 215 GSM
* Lightweight woven canvas
* Stealth cell phone pocket
* Imported
* KLASSIK FIT: A full seat and thigh tapers at knee through lower leg but the addition of spandex makes it feel like a Klassik fit.
* Gusseted crotch for freedom of movement

* Articulated knees



For Fall of 2017 we are stocking these in Khaki and Rock Gray colors











We do what we do in Kuhl pants!

813 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43214

614-451-0363





Thursday, October 12, 2017

Midwest Fly Fishing Schools and Classes- Winter Schedule


**Upcoming Schools and Classes**


Saturday and Sunday, October 14th and 15th- 2-Day Intermediate Fly Fishing School with Brian Flechsig and Jerry Darkes instructors- held at Sunnybrook Trout Club- Click Here

Saturday, October 21st- 1-Day Fly Fishing School- Sunnybrook Trout Club- last one of the 2017 season!- Click Here

Monday, October 23rd- Knots and Leaders Class- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Saturday, October 28th- Basic Fly Casting Clinic- 9-11 a.m.- Click Here

Monday, November 6th- Basic Fly Tying Course- 4 weeks- 11/6, 11/13, 11/20 and 11/27- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Wednesday, November 15th- Basic Knots and Rigging Class- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Wednesday, November 29th- Entomology 101 Class- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Monday, January 3rd- FREE Getting Started in Fly Tying Program- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Monday, January 15th- Basic Fly Tying Course- 4 weeks- 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Wednesday, January 24th- Basic Knots and Rigging Class- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Saturday, January 27th- Enotomology 101 Class- 9-11 a.m.- Click Here

Saturday, February 17th- FREE Getting Started in Fly Tying Program- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Wednesday, February 21st- Basic Fly Tying Course- 4 weeks- 2/21, 2/28, 3/7, 3/14- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here

Monday, March 5th- FREE Beginners Fly Fishing Program- 7-9 p.m.- Click Here


2018 1-Day, 2-Day and On-River Seminars should be announced soon!

Midwest Fly Fishing Schools and Mad River Outfitters
"Changing the way fly fishing is taught"


614-451-0363