December Recap

December is often a time of shoveling snow, busy holiday shopping, parties, work functions, year end paperwork, wrapping, eating, drinking, etc... This year was no different. Mother nature provided plenty of snow for December and I was tasked with shoveling and running the snow blower. The snow blower put my December and perhaps longer, right in the drain. While putting the snow blower back in its cozy space in the shed, I "tweeked" my lower back! It was a very painful experience, basically rendering me useless! After a doctors visit, some meds and basic exercises to help rehab the pulled muscles, I was semi-back in action. Although I had to have my parents put our tree up, since I could barely lift the tree stand.

Self medication

I treated myself to a nice gift from Fly Tyers Dungeon, it was a holiday gift package, baby baitfish box, full of congo hair, eyes and flash. I've never used congo hair, but I have used EP fibers and from what I understand these are very similar materials. What you got for the price was outstanding!

Special holiday package, courtesy of www.flytyersdungeon.com - Baby Baitfish Box

First pattern I tied using the congo hair. Its a perch pattern I've tied perviously using EP fibers. Looks great and I'll be tying a few more for the Spring.

I believe my kid (3 years old), saw Santa at least a dozen times. He was really into Santa this year, actually the whole Christmas experience. I took advantage of a Cabelas sale just before the holidays and bought him his first fly rod & reel. We didn't give it to him this year, perhaps next year or maybe for a birthday.

I had Flyers tickets and my brother-in-law was in from out of town. Since he's never been to a game, we decided to go. Traffic was aweful, but the game was very entertaining and glad we stayed until the end. Our seats were excellent!
Crazy Comeback

Before I wrecked my back, I did sit down at the bench to get some tying done. I've had several materials laying around unopened for some time. Plus I have had a few "project" ties I have been meaning to test out.

Damsel nymph for Spring carp

 Eel - This is a heavy eel pattern I made for tossing around jettys. It has worked in the past, but with the quick change in the weather & water temps, I didn't get a chance this year.

 "Kinky" Sandeel

Epoxy sandeel tied with EP fibers. I tie this pattern using EP fibers cut in half, making the fly about 6" out of the vise. I then can cut these down in the field to "match the hatch".