Rio DC26 Coldwater Striper Line

"The Rio DC26 Coldwater Striper line is one of my hands down favorites for SF bay and delta striper fishing.  It has a shorter belly and a 10-foot rear taper which prevents the head from dumping.  It's a superb line for beginners who might have difficulty handling lots of overhang.  It's also a great line for the advanced caster who wants to make long, effortless casts.  This line almost casts itself and is one I offer my clients who are just getting into this type of fly fishing and have difficulty dealing with loop-to-loop shooting heads..." Dan Blanton
 

Rio Powerflex Core Shooting Line - Intermediate

"This is one of my favorite coated shooting lines.  I prefer this type of shooting line far and above mono types for most applications.  The Powerflex Core shooting line in .030 intermediate density is one of the best for general all-round shooting head work both in fresh and saltwater.  I even prefer this one for use with floating heads.  They come with Rio's special welded loops which are the best "factory" loops I've ever used..." Dan Blanton
 

Wading

"Waterproof, durable, functional.  The CPS waders are becoming fast favorites of seasoned guides and frequent hard core waders.  For more details on this great wader go to www.redington.com

"The new CPS wading boot is sure to become the go-to Redington wading boot for the novice and pro alike..."  For completed details go to www.redington.com
 

"The new Simms G3 Guide wading boots offer effortless entry, waterproof leather which diminishes shrinkage and minimum exposed stitching for increased durability.  The molded toe and heel counters to minimize toe box collapse and provide a better fit.  Other features: tapered pull-on heal loop; fully neoprene lined with closed-cell foam for minimal water absorption; fully stitched rubber rand for superior durability; perimeter cable-stitched outsole..."  For more information go to www.simmsfishing.com

"The heaviest-duty fishing sandal on the market today.  It has great toe protection, plus a unique felt and rubber sole for superb traction on the most slippery of surfaces.  This one is a winner!... John Sherman

Accessories

"The new Rio Kahuna Twisty indicator is one of the hottest products we've introduced this year.  Dealers can't keep them in stock!..." Simon Gawesworth  For more information on Rio products go to www.rioproducts.com

The Tibor LineMaster™ Line Management System lets you change lines quickly and easily, without going to a tackle shop or needing a second person to maintain tension on the line.

Steady tension makes the difference. This is the only line winder on the market with an innovative, spring-loaded disk system that holds the spool firmly in place while you remove or load line and backing in a reliable, one-person operation that applies the steady tension required to prevent line from tangling or binding
as it winds

At home or in the field. An ideal system for any angler and guide, the Tibor LineMaster converts easily to a left or right-hand wind. The neoprene-lined Leg Saddle acts as a convenient “third hand” for solo operation in the field, and the Table Clamp fits all standard counters, allowing for hands-free operation at home or on the road.

No more loads of spools and reels to carry. Big fish, snags
and debris can stretch, fray, break or take lines in a single run. In both salt and freshwater situations, you never know when you’ll need to replace line or backing, or adapt to changing conditions by switching from a floating to sinking line. And wouldn’t it be nice to be able to stay with your favorite reel?

The Tibor LineMaster has all the tools of a portable Line Management System. The neoprene transport pouch even includes a storage pocket, indelible marker, pipe cleaners and an easy labeling system to wrap, identify and organize your lines – anytime, anywhere. No need to carry all those extra spools!  For more information go to www.tiborreel.com
 

Fiskars' Craft Sheet Metal Scissors

"Cutting most of the new multi-strand, stainless coated wire, like TYger Wire for example, will quickly dull the best and most expensive cutters.  Well take note of this hot item - Fiskars metal sculpting scissors found in most craft and art supply stores.  These great scissors cost about $15 a pair and they will easily cut all the braided wires without dulling.  I carry a pair of these along with some needle nose pliers wherever I fish - especially if I'm fishing for toothy critters and will be using braided wire..."
 Dan Blanton

Peterson's Stripping Guards

"I've used Peterson's Stripping Guards for several years and all I can say is that I can't fly fish without them!  They are an absolute must fly-fishing accessory, one that will prevent line cuts and burns.  Using one on your stripping finger and also on the line winding finger (as when cranking backing and the line back on the reel) will greatly improve your performance while at the same time provide a prophylactic against cuts and burns.  No more burns from dry lines or cuts from slicing backing!"... Dan Blanton
 

"The Bucket, is another version of what I call a VLMD (vertical line management device).  There are several good ones on the market today and this, the newest of them is a very good one.  I simply will not fly fish from a skiff, jetty, or shoreline without one.  The many advantages of using a VLMD are enormous!  Check this one out at Sea Level Fly Fishing..." Dan Blanton

Sungloves are not new. They've been around a few years and were developed and endorsed by both Lefty Kreh and Flip Pallot.

"Sun can cause skin cancer, and no one is more aware of that than fishermen and hunters. Even if sunscreen is applied to the hands, it is often rubbed or washed off. Sungloves were developed by us to protect the hands while leaving the fingers totally free to tie knots, thread leader tippets on flies, handle tackle or your gun. Light as a thistle and snug but not tight fitting, this glove never interferes with your outdoor activities."  "The thin, but very tough material filters dangerous sun rays. On a hot day, if you dip them in the water, the evaporation from them really cools the hands. When not being used they are small enough to fit easily in a pocket..."  Lefty Kreh

"I just started using Sungloves at the urgency of my wife and my dermatologist. "You may only be 62 years old", my wife, Cindy commented, "but your hands look 100..." I took the hint and started wearing Sungloves. So does Cindy. They're great for all of the reasons Lefty noted, plus the new Amara Palm (leather like) gloves help to reduce casting and fish-fighting blisters. I prefer the Amara Palms. They also help keep your hands cool in summer and warm in winter.  Sungloves are truly a "Hot" item, and I highly recommend them. Look for them at your local fly fishing shop..." Dan Blanton
 

Lightweight finger-free gloves with Lycra stretchable
back for a firm fit and sun protection. The tough Amara
palm gives a firm grip and holds up under wet
conditions. Finger-free design lets you tie knots, strip
line on reels.

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large (small fits most woman)
Color: Beige

"The Cam Sigler fingerless gloves are superb for protecting your hands from the ravages of cancer-causing sunlight.  I particularly like these gloves because they are easy to put on and take off.  The Amara palm helps to prevent blisters from casting.  They also provide some warmth on cold mornings..." Dan Blanton - For more information go to www.sealevelflyfish.com
 

The Dan Blanton Rigged N' Ready soft rod bag, made from heavy duty Cordura, is intended to provide the angler, particularly the traveler, with a bag that easily allows a fully rigged rod with fly to be inserted inside. The bag does not provide the protection of a hard tube or other hard carrier and was never intended to. It doe's provide protection from sun, dirt, sand, and from tangling. Because the bag is highly visible, accidental breakage of your rod is less likely. The padded reel pouch protects reels from being scratched, dented or contaminated with dirt or sand. Once the angler forms the habit of always breaking down the rod at fishing's end, returning the rigged rod to the bag, chances of damage to the outfit from handling, boat bouncing, or ceiling fans is markedly reduced.

Two or more rigged rods can be easily carried with one hand without fear of breakage, or tangling, particularly when walking through dense wooded areas. The D-ring allows the bag to be hung out of the way at day's end, and the clear card or label holder makes it easy to identify what's inside or who owns the bag. The bags also fits easily into most rod holders, or under gunnel braces, or they can just be stowed in a corner of the boat. If dropped overboard, the bag will float, even with a rod inside. When the rod is removed for action, the empty bag is easily stowed out of the way, something that is difficult or impossible to do with a hard rod tube. Guides and boat captains love them.  Bush pilots love these bags because they make it so much easier to transport on daily fly-outs. 

The bag will accommodate, two, three and four piece rods. Always make sure the tip section is pointed toward the reel and allow at least 6-inches of leader beyond the rod tip. Insert the broken down rod all the way into the bag, place fly in last and then adjust the excess rod sock to fit your rod's length using the Velcro strip.  The Dan Blanton Rigged `N Ready rod bag can be purchased from the San Jose Fly Shop, Western Sport Shop or directly from Dan Blanton www.danblanton.com/RiggedReadybags.html

"Once you discover the Dan Blanton Rigged N' Ready Rod Bag, you'll find you'll be using it more than any other. They are a must for the traveling angler, folding flat and easily carried in your luggage. Even at home, I never take my regularly used outfits out of their bags, except for cleaning. My rods are always hanging, Rigged N' Ready - which means I'm several steps ahead of those who are not, and that equates to no wasted time in-motion, which means more hook-ups..." Dan Blanton
 

"The Forefather to all the VLMDs (vertical line management devices), Pro-Trim's Fly Line Tamer (R), was invented by Carl Anderson of Florida.  The first time I saw on in use was on a fly-only long range trip aboard the Royal Star.  I was impressed with its performance then and even more so later after getting one of my own.  There is more than one manufacturer of this type of line management device and the Fly Line Tamer remains one of the best..." Dan Blanton

"The Boga Grip is one of the greatest devices for light tackle anglers of all persuasion to come down the pike in the last couple of decades.  I have them in all three sizes, 15#, 30# and my favorite, the 60#.  There are similar devices available today but none compare to the Boga Grip in anyway.  I highly recommend getting a Boga Grip for lip-landing and handling your catch - especially the toothy critters!" Dan Blanton

"There has never been a waterproof fly box like the System X, especially at such a remarkable price. System X boxes are clear, so you to see your flies without having to open the box and they float..." Tom Malech, San Jose Fly Shop

"The Lee Haskin Streamer Box is one of the best designed and functional streamer and shad fly boxes I have ever used.  The slotted foam holds each fly securely and they are easily removed or inserted.  I have several of these great fly boxes and I can't speak highly enough about them..."
Dan Blanton

“We took care of most trout anglers, and even touched some saltwater applications with the initial introduction of the System X fly boxes in 2004, “ said Scientific Anglers’ Del Kauss. “ The reaction and immediate popularity of these fly boxes was really surprising, and the main question was how about a box or insert for nymph fishing. We’ve taken an added step with both a specific waterproof nymph box, and a waterproof box for nymphs and dries for the angler who wants all types of flies in one box.”

            The System X waterproof nymph box is designed with a foam insert sized for nymphs, plus a section to securely hold split shot and indicators. As with the original System X box, it opens on either side, has a see-through lid, and has a unique, tapered seal and soft rubber gasket to assure a watertight closure. “Moisture can’t get in so your flies stay dry, plus if you do happen to drop it, it will float high and dry,” Kauss said.  For more information go to www.scientificanglers.com

"THE DRY-TECH MRT FLY BOX - Moisture that becomes trapped inside fly boxes can be damaging to flies. Replacing wet flies or fishing in wet or humid conditions can cause hooks to rust and fly tying materials to weaken. Larger nymphs, dry flies, and streamers that retain greater amounts of water are even more vulnerable to reduced lifespan and performance.

The new Dry-Tech MRT fly box uses Moisture Reduction Technology (MRT) to eliminate harmful moisture that causes flies to weaken and deteriorate. Moisture from wet flies that generally becomes trapped inside the box is now soaked up continuously by unique absorbent crystals. Wet flies will dry out completely as the moisture from them is drawn out of the box and away from other flies as well. This convenience makes it unnecessary to dry flies separately before replacing them. These crystals maintain a constant dry climate inside and protect flies from dampness & humidity. This reduces the deterioration of hooks, thread, & fly-tying materials and will extend the durability, performance, and the investment in your flies.

 Its patent pending design uses environmentally safe, odorless, non-toxic crystals which absorb and store moisture in a non-liquid form. These orange crystals gradually turn color as they reach their maximum absorption capacity. When exhausted, the removable MRT container can be quickly regenerated in a conventional microwave oven. When refreshed, their absorption potential and original color are restored.  This process can be repeated  for long term service.  Regeneration will typically be required after about every 5-8  individual fishing days. The variance in days is based upon the number, size, and the water retaining qualities of the flies you use.  The Medium MRT  box ( 6.25“x 4.25“x 1.5“) contains flat and slit foam sections along with a graduated ridge foam bottom. MSRP $39.95. The Large MRT box ( 8.5”x 4.75”x 1.75” ) employs charcoal slit foam on both sides for saltwater, steelhead, salmon flies, etc. MSRP $44.95. A Humidity Indicator Test Strip is included with each box to demonstrate the effects of the MRT design to the consumer. The box is waterproof & airtight. Rugged, durable lifetime construction. Made in USA..."  For more information go to www.anglingdesigns.com
 

Luggage

"I've been using the Medium-size WXtex dry duffel for two seasons now and I am completely sold on this excellent dry duffel which serves as both a boat gear and dry bag.  I've traveled with it to Canada, Mexico and Australia and this incredibly tough bag has stood up to the rigors of travel and some incredibly hard rainstorms - nothing in my bag has every gotten a drop of water on it - from hard rain or boat spray..." Dan Blanton
 

"When it comes to angling travel these days with so many restrictions by TSA and other inconveniences, I've discontinued using separate check-on rod tubes.  I want all my clothes, gear and rods in one bag or two bags, but I don't want to hand-carry anything nor do I want to check special equipment like two- and three-piece rods.  I've found the G. Loomis Large Rolling Cargo Bag the perfect solution!  I can pack four 4-piece fly rods, my gear and all my clothes into one
36 X 16 X 15 - inch bag.  Actually, I have two of these large rolling cargo bags and I split my stuff between two of them.  These bags are extremely tough and have held up well against the rigors of travel, world-wide..." Dan Blanton
 

"New for 2006, this high-quality, super-tough boat bag is perfect for storing and protecting fly boxes, fly reels and other fishing gear. If you are looking for a water resistant, non-corrosive zippered bag that will hold a ton of stuff, take a look at this bag by Simms..." John Sherman

Clothing

"State of the art construction and design make this wading jacket a fantastic value at $249.95. The Bow River features waterproof breathable Red.Storm™ fabrication in a four-way stretch softshell. This jacket is full of fantastic features: multiple pockets, two large rear creels (that you can actually reach into while wearing), front hand warmer pockets, two large vertical pocket for fly boxes, watertight neoprene cuffs with Velcro closures, quiet material that stretches while you move. Fully seam-taped. Fully adjustable hood..."  For more great Redington outerwear go to www.redington.com

"I've been wearing the  good looking and functional Albright Weather 3XDry water resistant fishing shirt for quite some time now and I've found them to be one of the best fishing shirts of its type available today; and at $39 each, you simple can't beat the price!  They do run large so take this into considertion when you purchase them..." Dan Blanton

Eyewear

"The new Habervison sunglasses are hands down some of the best I've ever used!  I particularly like the "Nice" style shown above.  These glasses are sold direct and enormous savings are the result.  These glasses are comparable to any of those costing twice as much..." Dan Blanton

"Guideline Eyewear has announced a new, affordable series of quality polarized, bifocal lenses specifically designed for anglers.  Guideline’s new lens combines crystal-clear, polarized optics with convenient magnification built in.  No more switching from sunglasses to readers for magnified vision..."  Kevin Sloan.  For more details go to www.glpolarized.com 

Classic - $7.95
"This is where the 3-in-1 (retainer, case and
cleaner) revolution all started. The patented
hides™ Classic is the one and only, original,
multifunction eyewear necessity that single-
handedly redefined the entire category! Made
from very high quality, super soft, lens-safe
DuPont™ microfiber and combined with our
hides™ exclusive Double Roll Technology,
the hides™ Classic is the most comfortable,
full feature, eyewear retainer you will ever
own! Available in a wide array of colors, the
hides™ Classic is designed to exceed most
of your everyday and active lifestyle
applications."

www.sealevelflyfish.com

Flies

"Lee Haskin has come up with another great foam top-water pattern - the "Slide Ball Slider".  It has scored well on a variety of species and from just looking at it I know it's going to be a killer.  It can be purchased directly from Lee Haskins or from Targus flies..." Dan Blanton

"Lee Haskin's Neutralizer patterns have been hugely successful from Northern Cancun to Australia's Gulf of Carpentaria for a gaggle of species from tarpon to barramundi.  This is a pattern that should be in every serious marine fly fishers selection..." Dan Blanton

For more information on Lee's flies go to www.gurglersonline.com

Fly Tying

"The Sparkle Spinner by Oasis Fly Tying Benches is a fabulous accessory for the fly tier.  It holds 24 skeins of Flashabou, Crystal Flash and other similar materials neatly and securely, The Sparkle Spinner spins like a Lazy Suzan, placing each skein of material right at your finger tips.  For more information, go to www.oasisbenches.com and follow the links..." Dan Blanton

"Regal 200-RWR Vise:  This beautiful vise features a wood base by Oasis Benches with magnetic hook holder, tool storage, pedestal and clamp capabilities, true-rotary with bobbin cradle and the traditional Regal Engineering quality and spring-loaded hook clamping mechanism..."  Chappy - San Jose Fly Shop

"These new all purpose prism scissors from Dr. Slick slick are a hot item for fly tiers - check them out!... Scott Wessels, owner the Bears Den Fly Shop.  www.bearsden.com

"Slinky Flash and Slinky Fiber is the first synthetic substitute for Bucktail I've tried that I really like.  I use it alone or I use it in combination with real bucktail.  This material comes in a variety of great colors and it doesn't "rat nest" up after a few fish have chewed on it like so many other synthetic fibers do - no take your fly to the dog groomer after every other fish or so.  You can get this material from the San Jose Fly Shop and other quality fly fishing shops and materials outlets..." Dan Blanton

"The Eagle Claw (EC 413), 60 degree bend jig hook has become one of my favorite hooks for tying any pattern that I want to ride hook point up.  All of my Whistlers, Clousers, crab, shrimp and many others.  You can tie fuller Whistlers and Clousers without using lead eyes and they will ride perfectly balanced, hook point up.  Another benefit this hook provides is better hooking and holding since the leverage of the 60 degree bend helps to drive the hook in and then keep it there  - much better holding when fishing barbless.  Most of the hookups will be in the top or corner of the mouth and far less will be in the gills.  This is an incredible hook and they aren't very expensive..."
Dan Blanton

Books & Media

"Bill Nash's self-published book - "Flycasting Systems" is hands down one of the best knots and rigging books available today.  It will give you detailed instructions on how to build leaders, tie knots, how to select the right fly lines, how to put together a system - the works!"  It is a must book if you are just getting into fly fishing or into saltwater fly fishing."  Dan Blanton

To obtain a copy contact Bill Nash at billsknots@aol.com

"Fly Fishing California's Great Waters is about fly fishing diversity; so if you're one of those fly-anglers who loves diversity pursuing all manner of species in both fresh water and salt, from panfish to billfish to blue sharks, then this book is a must..." Amato Publications

"Always an experimenter when conventional fly patterns are not working, Bob tweaks patterns, or even invents new one, to fool fish. His Clouser Deep Minnow is undoubtedly the most popular fly pattern to be developed  in the last several decades.  Bob Shares his solid experience to help you tie better flies and understand why you do or do not catch fish.  This book is one of the most useful published in some time..." Lefty Kreh

"I consider Bob Popovics to be one of the greatest fly tying innovators of all time.  He has developed more productive fly patterns and tying techniques in the last two decades than any other tier I know or have heard of. Bob's influence on modern fly tying has been profound..." Dan Blanton

  This is the first and only reference of the work of Bob Popovics.  Written and photographed by his lifelong friend and fishing companion, Ed Jaworowski, it shows in full color and exquisite detail every step in the creation of the Popovics's classic patterns, explains nuances of technique and construction, and otffers a wealth of fishing tips. Stackpole Books

"RIO’S Modern Spey Casting is the most comprehensive video on spey casting techniques ever made. Sequences with narration, music, bio-kinetic and other animation demonstrate the classic Roll Cast, Switch Cast, Single Spey and Double Spey, as well as modern spey casts such as the Snake Roll, Snap T, Snap Z, Circle C, Wombat Cast, Underhand Cast, Jelly Roll, Perry Poke and short head Skagit casting. In addition, the DVD has a sequence on overhead casting with shooting heads off the beach for stripers on the East coast. Simon Gawesworth also demonstrates how many of the spey casts can be adapted to single handed rods..." Zack Dalton, Rio

"Mike Laptew is one of the most experienced and renowned underwater photographers in the world.  Mike's first love is fishing for striped bass and his second love is photographing them in their underwater environment.  In his latest DVD "Stripers Gone Wild" Mike captures stripers on the feed like nothing you've ever seen. Watching this DVD will hugely increase your knowledge of striped bass forage and how stripers feed - it will make you a better striper angler whether you use bait, plugs or flies..." To purchase one go to www.bearsden.com/product5189.html

Water Craft - Marine Electronics

"The Lowrance M-68C is a great unit. Nothing on the market touches it for the money, definitely maxes out the value for dollar equation. I like it better than other units I've seen and used. If someone dropped mine overboard tomorrow, I'd buy another one without even shopping around!" And Cappar

"Check out the Lowrance M68-C. I love mine, and while I might have done it differently if I had more console space, an M68-C is a worthy addition to any boat even as a redundancy. Not expensive either, a great value!" Scott Jaunich

"I can't speak from personal use experience but after looking at Northfork Outdoors' new Coastal Waters Express poonton boats at the ISE show in San Mateo, I have to say I was very impressed with the design and function ability of this boat.  If I were thinking of purchasing a poontoon boat for fishing saltwater flats, one that packed up into a 45 pound  back pack for easy transport and one that could be paddled or poled and easily stood up on, this is the boat I'd go for..." Dan Blanton

"This is the finest one person stillwater fly fishing platform available today..." according to Brian Chan, the Senior Fisheries Biologist for the Province of British Columbia, Canada.  Designed for stillwaters and estuaries it's stability is incredible.

"The Super Fat Cat has the added advantage of an inflatable seat and backrest that make this float tube more compact for storage and transport. The above the water seating of the Super Fat Cat offers a greater field of vision, a warmer, drier ride and a better fin kicking position.  If you are looking for a great float tube, this is one you should consider..." John Sherman
 

Lodges - Destinations

"Cindy and I had the pleasure of visiting Mike and Sally Trotter's Baranof Wilderness Lodge in August, 2003.  This is renowned fly-fishing writer, Ken Hanley's "home water" when it comes to Alaska fishing and Baranof Lodge is where he hosts three weeks of fly fishing clinics every year.  This in itself speaks highly of the lodge, its staff and the incredibly diverse fly fishing it offers.

   We had a wonderful time there and were extremely impressed on all counts.  We both feel that Baranof Wilderness Lodge is the near perfect cold-water fly fishing destination, particularly if you want variety and angling diversity.  If you don't mind mooching with gear the halibut fishing is an added bonus.  We did it all!" Dan Blanton

“Tarpon Cay Lodge is a new frontier that has just recently been discovered in the Northern Mexican Yucatan. The lodge is located in the small, remote fishing village of San Felipe. Tourists are rarely seen here so the experience is quite refreshing. You will fly to Cancun, where you are met there and driven ~3 hours on a good paved highway to San Felipe. This is one of the top destinations in the world today for baby Tarpon that run 5 to 35 pounds. The other game fish here is the elusive Snook which is revered by many as a top salt water adversary.  Fishing is conducted in shallow clear water with # 7, 8 and 9 weight outfits and only floating lines are needed. Although April – August is considered prime, this area has so many baby Tarpon it can be fished year round. You can expect most good casters to jump 10 to 30 tarpon in a day. We have had friends boat as many as 19 in one day!" Bill Kiene.  For more info go to www.anglingonthefly.com