June 2008 Newsletter
As the song says, "June is bustin' out all over..." The weather has been a little more summer-like the past week (including the unfortunate tornadoes that struck Weld County), and bids fair to remain that way for the foreseeable future. It won't be long until we are in the typical summer pattern of afternoon thundershowers. Runoff is in full swing, but many waters have been very fishable, among them our local streams: the Big T, the St Vrain and the streams in Rocky Mountain National Park. Just use caution when wading. Check our fishing Reports and FishLog for up-to-date info on flies, techniques and stream flows around the state.
June is the month of graduations, marriages and Fathers Day- all great gift giving occasions. The Laughing Grizzly has something for the grad, the groom, the bride and Dad and Granddad, too. From somehing as simple as a spool of tippet to a new rod and reel, we can fill the bill. A day on the water makes an especially nice gift. Wouldn't a guided trip in Rocky Mountain National Park make a great (and unusual) gift for the newly wedded couple, for Dad and a son or daughter or for you and your best friend? Our guides love sharing their knowledge of the piscine world and fly fishing techniques with everyone from beginner to expert. Book your trip soon!
Speaking of thunderstorms, here are some things you need to know about thunderstorm safety:
There are an estimated 25 million lightning strokes each year in the United States. During the past 30 years, lightning has killed an average of 62 people per year, about the same number of deaths caused by tornadoes each year. Yet because lightning usually claims only one or two victims at a time and does not cause mass destruction of property, it is underrated as a risk. While there are about 300 documented lightning injuries in the United State every year, undocumented injuries are likely much higher.
- Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles from the area where it is raining. That's about the distance you can hear thunder. If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance. Seek safe shelter immediately.
- If you are above timberline, move down immediately, and follow the directions below as well.
- If you feel your hair stand on end, drop to the ground in a crouched position, hands on knees. Do not lie flat on the ground.
- Avoid being the highest object in any area.
- Avoid hilltops, trees or telephone poles. In a forest, move under a growth of small trees.
- Stay away from water during a thunderstorm. Water conducts electricity.
- Get off or away from open water and metal equipment such as golf cars, tractors and bicycles. Put down your rod, or take it apart and put it in your vest.
- Watch for flash flooding.
- Keep several yards away from other people. In open areas, go to a low place like a ravine or valley.
- Stay indoors and away from windows during a storm if possible; avoid using the phone and unplug unnecessary appliances.
Cardiac arrest and irregular beating, burns, and nerve damage are common when people are struck by lightning. Many people that appear to have been killed by lightning can be revived if quick action is taken. Call 911 and get medical care immediately. If you know CPR, start it immediately, and continue until emergency help arrives. You are in no danger helping a lightning victim. They carry no electrical charge.
What's New in the Shop
Fispond Gear
Fishpond makes great stuff. Their gear bags, vests and fanny packs, as well as reel cases, soft side coolers and other neat gear will help you organize everything you need for your next trip, and do it in style. We've got a great selection in stock now.
Flies
While most of our flies are tied by major producers like Umpqua and others, we carry some exclusive patterns and variations tied by shop staff and other local tyers. Great patterns include Frank's Tan Tick and Flashy, FLip Flop and Flying Flip Flop Ants, LA Ants, Dick's pale Morning Sally, Mike's Carp Bug and a wide variety of Tom Maydew's beautiful midge patterns. In addition, we've got special Grey Reek patterns, and can set you up with flies for the San Juan, the Bighorn and other waters around the state. The bins are full and waiting for you.
Boats and Float Tubes
We carry a limited selection of Outkast and Fishcat float tubes and pontoon boats in the shop, but we can order any model for you. Float tubes are far advanced over the original truck tire tube models of yesteryear- more spacious, more stable and more maneuverable. Rowable pontoon boats are safe and stable watercraft that can be used on still water as well as big rivers, and come in 1 to 3 person models. Right now we have a sweet 9' model in the shop just waiting to go along on your next trip.
Rods and Reels
While we don't have any new models to talk about, we can report that we have recently received more shipments of Ross Reels and Sage Rods, so we've got a great selection of both to choose from. We also have a nice selection of Winston and St Croix in stock.
One final note: June marks the beginning of our second year of business. Thank you for your business, your loyalty to the shop and your friendship- we appreciate them all, and we look forward to a long future serving your fly fishing needs.
That's it for this month. See you in the shop or on the water.
The Laughing Grizzly Staff