Fly Product...TLTFF Review of The Chum Bucket Fly Tester

Photo via Jason Haddix on IG of double tube Chum Bucket (@watersedgeflyco)

There was one item as a fly tier I had on my wish list for awhile that, at the time I could not justify the cost for nor find available when it did seem right...one that eventually came off the market.

A fly tester.

Once FlyMen decided they would no longer carry their $285 Fish-Skull Fly Tester, I was on the hunt to find a used one for sale or something I could use in its stead. This would be one to test out new ties or run some simulation tests of tried and true patterns to see how they look to the fish I was planning on chasing. Unfortunately, nobody seemed to want to let theirs go and they were impossible to find at the shows as dealers had sold out.

Thats when I was introduced to Kent Christensen of Pristine Plastics by friend Jason Haddix of Waters Edge Fly Co. Jason and Kent recognized the void that had been left and the remaining demand for a fly tester...thats how the Chum Bucket came to be.

Cheeky Reviews You Can Win On

The Reviews are IN! Obviously we think our reels are great, but we don't expect you to take it from us. Listen to what our customer's are saying: Limitless 325 Boost 325 550 Pliers Limitless 425 For us, there's nothing more satisfying than a happy customer. We enjoy every fishing story our customers share with us and it's further validation of the long hours and late nights we put in to ensure every reel we sell is of the highest performance possible.  Get 25% OFF The nicest compliment we can receive is a review, so if you've enjoyed our products, we'd love it if you'd share your experience.  To do so, navigate to the product you want to review on our website and locate the review section on the bottom right of every product page. If you write a review by end of day tomorrow, to show our thanks, we'll email you a 25% OFF SITE WIDE DISCOUNT CODE good through the end of October.

Boom...Morgan

Fly Product...Lifeproof NÜÜD Case for iPAD Pro (9.7-inch)

NÜÜD FOR iPAD PRO (9.7-inch) CASE

Let the adventure begin — your WaterProof, DropProof, screenless iPad Pro case traverses the toughest terrain without a drop of doubt.

WATERPROOF | DIRTPROOF | SNOWPROOF | DROPPROOF

$129.99

Standby for a TLTFF review coming soon...

Boom...Morgan

Fly Product...TLTFF Review of Slumberjack's Borderland 20 Sleeping Bag

For those of you who have followed the blog for a bit know I use some of Slumberjack's (SJK) gear, including their (now retired) Camp 6 Tent. Up until I purchased their Camp 6 Tent, I had been using a two-person Coleman tent I think I've had since I was in boy scouts. It was leaky, cold, and generally small for someone of my college and current stature of 6'1", 215lbs.  They have made innovative moves and released new products annually to set the bar higher within their industry.

Trident's 2015 5-Weight Fly Reel Shootout & Review

Via Trident Fly Fishing:

When we released our 8-weight reel shootout, we began to demystify fly reels. We proved that cork drags didn't perform as well as modern disc drags. We also showed that it was possible to create a reel with virtually no startup inertia. It was not only was it the first reel shootout that was widely published, but it remains the only scientific test to date.

This year, we tested a reel that many more of you will use: the trout reel. More specifically, the 5-weight trout reel (for your 9' 5wt rod). We also wanted to take our testing to the next level, so we added a couple innovative categories, including a never before done freeze test to see if drags were truly sealed. All in pursuit of one question: What's the best fly reel for trout?

Read the rest here...

Boom...Morgan

Fly Product...TLTFF Review of Dizm Eco Eyewear Dempseys

I've been on Dizm Eyewear's fishing team for about two years now. I've had the privilege of trying out a large number of their shades. But as some of you may have noticed, I do have a favorite pair...the Dizm Eco Eyewear Dempseys. 

Let me tell you a little about Dizm and their technology first...

E-Zine...Tail #18

Boom...Morgan

Kickstarter...The Reel Winder

"The Reel Winder" hit Kickstarter is ready for support, especially with only 8 days to go. As soon as it hit the site, the backers starts to pledge, showing anticipation was high for this product.

With a review on the horizon from these guys, I can tell you already this product is worth the backing (no pun intended). For $40 ($25 for Early Bird Special), your going to get a phenomenal product PLUS an extra spool. I've spooled two reels so far with this and its twice as fast as my DIY Line Spooling Station, which I thought was efficient. L&R Solutions hit the nail on the head with this product, and I think you'll find the same once you have one in hand. Head on over to the Kickstarter now to get yours, the rewards for this campaign, not to mention the quality and use of this product, are definitely worth the support.

Did I mention its Made in the USA... 'Merica!

Via L&R Solutions:

Never buy an extra fly reel spool again using

“The Reel Winder”

L & R Solutions has created “The Reel Winder” an innovative fly fishing tool that will eliminate the need to ever buy an extra fly reel spool again. The Winder attaches to your fly rod handle to quickly “Reel” fly line off your fly reel then, by exchanging winder spools, you are able to “Reel” on a different line.

“THE REEL WINDER” ATTACHED TO A FLY ROD

TrueFlies - New for 2015

Via TrueFlies:

I LOVE my Shell Creek shorts and Oyster Creek pants. You can see our TrueFlies review here. Be sure to swing by their site and give them some love on social media as well.


Boom...Morgan

Fly Product...TLTFF Review of Bozeman Fly Goods Bug Collars

In the fly fishing industry today, new products a rising and some falling quicker than most can keep up. New fads roll in and roll out, some stick, as they absolutely should due to having a place within today's industry...glass rods, synthetic tying materials, etc.

With companies and individuals pushing the limits of what the sport can do, from catching a 27lb carp on a Tenkara rod to sticking Mako sharks on a SUP, the industry changes monthly. When one of these changes or emergences of something new make a ripple within the industry, most know about it through the advent of blogs or their Facebook New Feed.

A few months back, some of us learned about something new, different, potentially revolutionary...Bozeman Fly Goods Bug Collars, a way to add style and weight to your self-tied bugs through functionality and ingenuity. When I first heard about Bugs Collars, I honestly didn't know what to think. Was this going to be a fad? Was this a product that caught more fisherman/tiers than it did fish? I had a lot of questions, and fortunately, I was privileged to get my hands on some Collars due to the extreme generosity of BFG, to answer these questions.

So what exactly are Bug Collars you ask? Well, its pretty simple. Bug Collars are just that, small rings, intended to collar your hook at some point on the pattern to not only add color and style, but functionality through added weight (idea for deeper nymphs or streamers) without the added bulk of an additional bead on the bug or lead on the line. Bug Collars, through their various sizes, flush up to whichever size bead you may be using to maintain a fluidity, again without the bulk.

The first run of Bug Collars were released in popular colors and sizes, some ideally catch fish, others to catch fisherman. Since the initial release, more colors and sizes have been added, giving any fisherman/tier plenty of options. And with the creativity of modern tiers, there are quite literally no limits. On to the review...

My initial impression was that of excitement. For those of you who have followed TLTFF for some time, or follow me on social media, you know I'm a progressive and modern fisherman...from my colorful reels, to crazy colored outfits, to giving the newest products a try. When the BFG Bug Collars came out of the box, I had to get to the vise, ASAP. With a plethora of colors and sizes in front of me, I honestly didn't know where to start. I figured the best place would be right with the fundamentals, some goto patterns that the Bug Collars could "choke" and add a little pizzaz to. Wooly Bugger...boom. (Disclaimer: Its been awhile since I tied freshwater bugs, salt has been the name of the game for the last couple of months).

The style and creativity that can come out of this product's possibilities are unreal. Some of the most creative brains within the tying industry right now have been able to put their hands on these as well, and its pretty amazing...

Via Pat Cohen aka @rusuperfly

Via @wycoflyco

Via JP Lipton aka @roughfisher

Via Matt Ebbers aka @ebbsforce1

To see more, you can click these hashtags...#bozemanflygoods, #chokeyourbug, and #bugcollars

Each pack contains 25 collars and they range in size from 2.5mm all the way up to 5.5mm. There are over 25 different colors available thanks to four different categories of colors: Metallic, Fluorescent, Painted and Plated (shown clockwise from top left below with blue as an example color).

 

 

The price is insane, possibly some of the most affordable tying materials you can find. The collars range from $3.50-$6.00 depending on size and style. Even for the most expensive pack at $6.00, your paying less than a quarter per collar. A steal.

The only complaint I had was the absence of a UV product in the lineup. Although there is Fluorescent, that is based off the color palate rather than light spectrum. UV colors have been proven time and time again to increase hookups due to the UV portion of the light spectrum being more visible to fish. I would love to see these in the near future and think they would be a huge benefit to the lineup and patterns their tied into.

With all things considered, from price to functionality, style to versatility, its time to rate Bozeman Fly Goods Bug Collars! It was not difficult to judge this one, as there was only the one complaint about the absence of UV collars, BFG Bug Collars received 4.75 out of 5 stars. Remember the ripples I was talking about in the beginning of the post? Yea, this is one of those ripples. Anyone who ties, or is looking to add something new to their Fall patterns or help get them through another winter full of cabin fever, this is your answer, plain and simple.

A huge thank you goes out to Bozeman Fly Goods for making this review happen and even more importantly for putting out such an amazing and forward-thinking product. Be sure to check out BFG on their website, where you can purchase your own Collars, on their Facebook page, and on Instagram! Oh, and don't forget to "Choke Your Bug".

Boom...Morgan

Fly Product...TLTFF Review of the RexFly Casting System

I was first introduced to the RexFly Casting System when inventor and fly fisherman, Rex Huang launched his Kickstarter campaign in January of 2013. Some of you may have seen the post here on TLTFF announcing the campaign. By the end of February, RexFly was fully funded and ready for launch, going about $380 over their $9,000 goal.

I had the privilege of meeting Rex himself at this year's Somerset, NJ Fly Fishing Show. Stand up guy with an energy for the sport and love for our vets. As you can tell by the video and basic idea behind the RexFly casting system, it was developed to make a fisherman's life easier and even allow those who may need a little extra help, like our disabled vets, to enjoy the sport as much as anyone else.

I was able to take the RexFly Casting System on a few trips with me this year, including thePHWFF Two-Fly Tournament back in April. There was one vet at the tournament who used the RexFly during the first day, they had purchased it through the Kickstarter Campaign. RexFly has been a huge supporter of PHWFF since the beginning. The PHWFF logo is on the front page of their site, even larger than their own logo.

One thing that got me really stoked for this product was not only the fact that it really is a life hack, making things much easier, but its made in the USA! With that in mind, I pulled mine out to show other vets and told them about the coolest aspect of RexFly...if they are a vet, they can actually receive one for free directly from RexFly. Like I said, Rex is an enormous supporter of our vets, simply amazing. I have an extreme amount of respect for our vets, and a big place in my heart for companies and organizations that strive to make their lives easier and allow them to enjoy the sport not only as a hobby, but in a therapeutic manner. RexFly does just that.

The RexFly Casting System is simple, and easy to use. Some of you may know that my wife doesn't fish, she'll pick up a rod once in a blue moon and throw a perfectly tight loop, and hook into a fish much bigger than I ever have...but in general, she doesn't fish. I put the RexFly CS on her after using it a few times myself, adjusted it to her small frame, and gave her a brief overview of how it works. Within minutes she had it down, the ease of use is amazing. Here's a little video Rex put together highlighting how he would pitch it at any of the shows.

When I go on a trip, I generally carry way more gear than I need, which always makes my life difficult when looking for one specific thing in one of my packs. I have to walk over to the bank, put my rod down, search through my packs, find what I'm looking for or the fly I need, adjust, and head back out to the spot, potentially blowing up the fish. Sometimes I tuck the rod under my arm and try to go through things as well, but that usually limits the range of motion I have with whichever arm is clamped on the rod. RexFly fixed all those problems. With its lightweight design and comfortable fit, its non-exhaustive and even stays out of the way of my other gear. (especially when you wear it under a fishing shirt or jacket so it only pops out between the buttons or zipper). There are different pouches and packs available through RexFly to add on to the Casting System that will give you storage options and me, the ability to carry less gear by making a pack one with the RexFly. 

The RexFly Casting System comes in at a very reasonable $74.00. There are a number ofother products offered by RexFly including the aforementioned packs. The RexFly Grand Tetons Chest Pack Pouches can be added to RexFly for $45.00 for those who like fishing with a vest-like feel. Or you could purchase the Casting System and Grand Tetons Chest Pack Combo for $110.00 and save $9. 

For those interested in more of a true Chest Pack feel, RexFly offers the Flask Pack Chest Pack Combo for $110.00. 

One of the accessories I'm really interested in purchasing in the future is the Economy Chest Harness/Rod Holder that would be perfect for strapping to a boat or kayak as an extra rod holder in conjunction with the RexFly, its perfectly priced at $18.00. 

I used the RexFly here on the Bay a few times and once at the beach as well. One suggestion I do have for anyone that plans on using RexFly in the salt, be sure you rise it afterwards. I didn't have any problems with rust or difficulty of use afterwards, but as most of you know, take care of your gear and it will take care of you for a long time.

With all the factors in mind...the price just right (especially for an American-made product), the ease of use so simple a non-fisherperson could do it, it being made in the USA, and the support RexFly shows to our vets...this rating was a no-brainer. The RexFly Casting System received 5 out of 5 stars. 

To check out RexFly for yourself, head on over to the RexFly site. Be sure to give them a like or follow on their Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram as well. And for more videos, check them out on YouTube. A huge thank you goes out to Rex for making such an amazing product and even more importantly, for showing the necessary support for our troops!

Boom...Morgan

Fly Interview: John Bartlett of Carp on the Fly

For those of you who missed last years interview, check it out here. This year we decided to update, reflect, and talk about whats what in the carp industry right now with John "Montana" Bartlett, author of Carp on the Fly and creator of one of the most successful carp patterns, the Soft Hackle Hybrid.

Fly Product...TLTFF Review of the RexFly Casting System

I was first introduced to the RexFly Casting System when inventor and fly fisherman, Rex Huang launched his Kickstarter campaign in January of 2013. Some of you may have seen the post here on TLTFF announcing the campaign. By the end of February, RexFly was fully funded and ready for launch, going about $380 over their $9,000 goal.

I had the privilege of meeting Rex himself at this year's Somerset, NJ Fly Fishing Show. Stand up guy with an energy for the sport and love for our vets. As you can tell by the video and basic idea behind the RexFly casting system, it was developed to make a fisherman's life easier and even allow those who may need a little extra help, like our disabled vets, to enjoy the sport as much as anyone else.

I was able to take the RexFly Casting System on a few trips with me this year, including the PHWFF Two-Fly Tournament back in April. There was one vet at the tournament who used the RexFly during the first day, they had purchased it through the Kickstarter Campaign. RexFly has been a huge supporter of PHWFF since the beginning. The PHWFF logo is on the front page of their site, even larger than their own logo.

One thing that got me really stoked for this product was not only the fact that it really is a life hack, making things much easier, but its made in the USA! With that in mind, I pulled mine out to show other vets and told them about the coolest aspect of RexFly...if they are a vet, they can actually receive one for free directly from RexFly. Like I said, Rex is an enormous supporter of our vets, simply amazing. I have an extreme amount of respect for our vets, and a big place in my heart for companies and organizations that strive to make their lives easier and allow them to enjoy the sport not only as a hobby, but in a therapeutic manner. RexFly does just that.

The RexFly Casting System is simple, and easy to use. Some of you may know that my wife doesn't fish, she'll pick up a rod once in a blue moon and throw a perfectly tight loop, and hook into a fish much bigger than I ever have...but in general, she doesn't fish. I put the RexFly CS on her after using it a few times myself, adjusted it to her small frame, and gave her a brief overview of how it works. Within minutes she had it down, the ease of use is amazing. Here's a little video Rex put together highlighting how he would pitch it at any of the shows.

When I go on a trip, I generally carry way more gear than I need, which always makes my life difficult when looking for one specific thing in one of my packs. I have to walk over to the bank, put my rod down, search through my packs, find what I'm looking for or the fly I need, adjust, and head back out to the spot, potentially blowing up the fish. Sometimes I tuck the rod under my arm and try to go through things as well, but that usually limits the range of motion I have with whichever arm is clamped on the rod. RexFly fixed all those problems. With its lightweight design and comfortable fit, its non-exhaustive and even stays out of the way of my other gear. (especially when you wear it under a fishing shirt or jacket so it only pops out between the buttons or zipper). There are different pouches and packs available through RexFly to add on to the Casting System that will give you storage options and me, the ability to carry less gear by making a pack one with the RexFly. 

The RexFly Casting System comes in at a very reasonable $74.00. There are a number of other products offered by RexFly including the aforementioned packs. The RexFly Grand Tetons Chest Pack Pouches can be added to RexFly for $45.00 for those who like fishing with a vest-like feel. Or you could purchase the Casting System and Grand Tetons Chest Pack Combo for $110.00 and save $9. 

For those interested in more of a true Chest Pack feel, RexFly offers the Flask Pack Chest Pack Combo for $110.00. 

One of the accessories I'm really interested in purchasing in the future is the Economy Chest Harness/Rod Holder that would be perfect for strapping to a boat or kayak as an extra rod holder in conjunction with the RexFly, its perfectly priced at $18.00. 

I used the RexFly here on the Bay a few times and once at the beach as well. One suggestion I do have for anyone that plans on using RexFly in the salt, be sure you rise it afterwards. I didn't have any problems with rust or difficulty of use afterwards, but as most of you know, take care of your gear and it will take care of you for a long time.

With all the factors in mind...the price just right (especially for an American-made product), the ease of use so simple a non-fisherperson could do it, it being made in the USA, and the support RexFly shows to our vets...this rating was a no-brainer. The RexFly Casting System received 5 out of 5 stars. 

To check out RexFly for yourself, head on over to the RexFly site. Be sure to give them a like or follow on their Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram as well. And for more videos, check them out on YouTube. A huge thank you goes out to Rex for making such an amazing product and even more importantly, for showing the necessary support for our troops!

Boom...Morgan

Fly Product: TLTFF Review of the 5wt Risen Fly ITB Fly Rod

ITB - In The Beginning. Not only the first rod to hit the Risen Fly portfolio, but one that stands for something more than the sport of fly fishing. 

Risen Fly "composed this rod to meet the demands of many anglers needs especially those just getting into the sport.  It's a great rod with an eye catching design that will get you on the water throwing tight loops and placing your fly where you want it."

Here are some of the specs via the Risen Fly site:

• High module graphite blank in a bold burnt orange color and brown/orange wrappings
• Mid flex, fast action
• 4 sections with the length and weight of rod marked on the end of each section to avoid confusion and alignment dots
• High quality 2 toned cork
• Steel snakes and guides with hook keeper
• Machined reel seat with wooden insert
• Triangle rod tube to prevent the rod from rolling around
• 4 section rod sock
• Backed by Risen Fly's Lifetime Warranty