The mighty March Brown hatch is our most prolific early spring hatch here in the Willamette Valley. In fact, it is one of the earliest large hatches across the country and even into Europe. The only well known hatch out West that can rival the spring March Brown hatch is the Skwala hatch, which we do not get consistent numbers like out East. Due to the sheer quantity of bugs hatching, fish get especially keyed in on vulnerable points in an insect’s emergence. They come in several forms: Stillborn, Emerger, Cripple, etc. This pattern paints with a broad stroke and can cover all three. Vertical hackle wraps allow additional on water alteration. If you need the fly to ride lower let the CDC get soaked, and clip the hackle with your nippers. My favorite way to fish this fly is behind a more visible March Brown Dun. Tie some up while it’s good!
As winter rolls around each year anglers retreat back to the solitude of their tying bench. A sudden surge tying posts flood social media, and boom fly tying season has begun. For those who aren’t tiers yet, seeing this larger influx of trying content generally sparks interest, but some don’t know where to start. For others, they may get the itch that it is time to upgrade their ancient vise. This article aims to streamline the plethora of choices that Renzetti offers to the new and experienced tier alike. At the end of the article there is a personal review of several Renzetti vise models.
Renzetti revolutionized the fly tying industry with rotary vises. Not only did they manufacture rotary vises that allowed flies to rotate, they invented “True Rotary” vises, something entirely new. A rotary vise allows a fly to rotate, which ages ago was a massive upgrade from the standard fixed vises of days gone by. A rotary vise allowed tiers to see the far side of their fly without having to get up and crane their head over their vise. The geometry on the shaft of a true rotary vise allows a fly to rotate while keeping the hook shank in line. This is an advantage for using the rotary function to palmer hackle, wire, thread, dubbing, dubbing loops, etc.
Renzetti is a household name in the world of fly tying. They have a plethora of options for vises, attachments, tools, and materials. Their vise models range from simple, beginner vises, to expert vises that offer the distinguished tier the most elevated fly tying experience that money can buy. Any vise model from Renzetti from the Apprentise to the Master is a lifelong investment that will outlive you. This guide aims to effectively capture the astounding craftsmanship put into each and every Renzetti Vise in a way that you otherwise could only comprehend by having one in your hand.
Apprentise
Beginning with their most basic offering, the Apprentise is a fantastic option for the minimalist, or beginner tier. The Renzetti Apprentise has a simple jaw and hinged stem with its standard 8″ shaft. This allows the vice jaws to be pivoted and spun, but does not offer a “true rotary” function. Any of the following vises below will offer true rotary capabilities. The Apprentise is a leg up from most vises of its style as it can rotate your fly. The ability to spin the fly you are working on is arguably a must. Most fly tiers know that if you don’t pay attention to your “blind side” facing away from yourself, your fly will only look half good. This vice also is not compatible with a Renzetti Material Clip, which I’ve found to be an extremely useful tool on my vises. Like all of their vises, the Apprentise comes in a pedestal base option and a C-Clamp option. For someone who is just getting started, this is a fantastic option. With the Apprentise being a simple model, it does not come with many additional attachments. Renzetti has a plethora of modular attachments to enhance your experience tying on an Apprentise. It is sufficient for the tier who is looking for quality, but does not require a true rotary function on their vise.
Traveler
The Renzetti Traveler is by far Renzetti’s most popular vise. It is their entry level “true rotary” option, and blows their competition out of the water for comparable models. The Traveler, hence its name, is a basic rotary vise which is built light enough to travel with, while still maintaining a level of craftsmanship that will last you your whole life. These vises are not only trusted around the globe, but have traveled the world with many ambitious traveling anglers over the years. They break down virtually flat, and are light enough to travel with, but heavy enough to stay put on your desk.
With a true rotary vise, your dominant hand plays a large role in which vise you should purchase. Most vises are manufactured with right handed people in mind. For those of you left handed folks, make sure you are looking at a left handed model for all of the following vises.
The Traveler comes in a base model with non-anodized aluminum. Anodizing is a finish which adds exceptional durability to the finished product. The next step up would be their anodized aluminum lineup. This features the core silver and black, but also several other colors such as blue, red, purple, green, etc. This allows an additional level of personalization with the ample color choices. One step above the anodized Traveler is the Saltwater Traveler, which has burlier components, and a finish that is salt-safe.
The Traveler is the next tier of Renzetti vises where you have the opportunity to explore the expanded modularity of Renzetti’s products. Cam jaws can be swapped for smaller midge jaws, game changer jaws, heavy saltwater jaws, etc. tool bars, parachute attachments, heavier/ lighter bases, visual plates, etc. can be added to further customize your vise to fit your needs. All basic components are available to replace, too setting you up to have this vise for life. All Travelers come stock with a bobbin rest and a material clip.
Presentation
The Renzetti Presentation is a step up from their base rotary model, the Traveler. The Presentation is a fantastic mid priced option in Renzetti’s true rotary world. Upgraded components are the main difference that you see when comparing the two. All Presentation models come with a larger stock base compared to the Traveler and Apprentise. There are 3 different models within the Presentation family [2,000/ 3,000/ 4,000] and each is catered to a specific type of tier. The Presentation is compatible with countless attachments to customize your vise for your needs. The Presentation is a fantastic option for the experienced tier who knows their tying style and may want to hone in on a vise with more specific attributes.
Presentation 2,000
The Presentation 2,000 is reminiscent of a traveler with one major distinguishing factor. The P2,000 sub-family always features a hinged shaft which allows the tier to change the angle at which the jaws sit. This allows maximum versatility to turn the vise from a true rotary to a straight stem vise, or hit every other angle you could imagine. This may be especially advantageous when tying streamers, articulated flies, and, in my experience, tying on curved hooks such as a Tiemco 2457 or an Ahrex FW 524 Super Dry Barbed Hook. For curved hooks specifically, it allows you to make the rear bend of the hook flat like your standard dry fly hook. This minor adjustment is a feature that I enjoy on my Renzetti Master, but is conveniently available at a lower price point. The P2,000 sub-family is the first vise, in terms of price point, where you will encounter a ratchet actuator arm. This ratcheting arm to rotate the stem is a convenient feature, but if you don’t like it you can lock it to behave like a base Traveler would. The P2,000 and all other Presentations a hinged stem to adjust the pitch of the vise while maintaining the true rotary geometry. Like all models Traveler+, the P2,000 comes stock with a bobbin rest and material clip. The most defining feature of the P2,000 is the hinged shaft, the only other model to feature this is a Master, so if that appeals to you the P2,000 or Master are for you.
Presentation 3,000
The Presentation 3,000 is a vise made for small flies specifically. If you live and fish somewhere that demands flies in the 16-28+ range this is the Renzetti Vise for you. Although many other Modular Renzetti models allow for the swapping of a Midge Jaw, the P3,000 is made for it. The P3,000 sub-family always features a small jaw that has a knob adjuster which is unique in the greater Renzetti family of vises. The P3,000 features a hinged stem to adjust the pitch of the vise, but always maintains a true rotary as the shaft does not adjust like the P2,000 sub-family. P3,000 comes stock with a Ratchet Actuator crank arm. Like all models Traveler+, the P3,000 comes stock with a bobbin rest and material clip. If you fish tiny hatches often and fish dries like Tricos, BWOs, Midges, Small Caddis & Cranes, etc., the P3,000 should be on your radar. The same goes for folks who fish tailwaters and spring creeks with snobby fish that demand microscopic nymphs.
Presentation 4,000
The Presentation 4,000 is the vise for tiers who absolutely love the Traveler, but want something a little more. It is upgraded with components like a larger base, ratchet actuator crank arm with additional adjustable tension knobs, and an overall elevated build. The P4,000’s inherent modularity allows for tiers to tailor this vise for their specific needs. P4,000 can accommodate 3 different jaw styles and countless attachments based on your tying style. Like all models Traveler+, the P4,000 comes stock with a bobbin rest and material clip. If you like the Deluxe Base that the Master offers, the P4,000 offers this stock. It is a fantastic option for tiers looking for a more elegant tying experience, but aren’t looking for the adjustable stem, built in material clip, and overall burlier build that the Master offers. The P4,000 is still a fantastic option for the traveling tier that wants a nicer vise than a Traveler. The P4,000 has an edge on packability when compared to the Renzetti Master.
Master
The mighty Renzetti Master is the flagship model from our friends at Renzetti, and is generally regarded as one of the finest fly tying vises that your hard earned money can buy. The most notable feature of a Master is its burly construction. Every feature of this vise is upgraded and made heavier. Tying on a Master is a dream and the vise feels bolted to your desk even with a pedestal base. There are countless attachments to dial in a Master that reflect the owners needs. The Master will be the last vise you will buy, and like any other Renzetti vise comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Master Vise family comes with upgraded cam jaws which are significantly burlier than any of the other cam jaws that Renzetti offers. All additional jaw styles for the Master maintain this overbuilt construction style while still offering the maneuverability that a specialized jaw offers. Every Master vise comes with a ratchet actuator arm with additional tension knobs which allows the tier to meticulously dial in the tension for each fly. If you are not a fan of the ratcheting arm, you can lock it out and override the ratcheting behavior. Like the Presentation 2,000, the Master features a hinged shaft which allows the utmost adjustment for tying everything under the sun. Like all vises in the Presentation family, the Master comes stock with a hinged stem which allows you to change the pitch of your vise head while maintaining the necessary geometry for a true rotary tying experience. Something unique about a Master is that is comes stock with a hinged adjustable material clip. This allows the tier to move the spring of the material clip to and from the hook. No other material clip allows the material to be loaded with your desired tension. Like all models Traveler+, the Master comes stock with a bobbin rest.
The Master is built for the most meticulous of tiers that demand the highest quality of vise on the market. That does not mean that the Master is exclusively available to the best of tiers, below I will write my account of how purchasing a Master shaped me into a better tier, demanding a higher standard of myself with every fly tied on it.
A previous long-winded Master review is available here.
Commemorative Grand Master
A breif note on the Commemorative Grand Master Vise from Renzetti. This limited run vise is a celebratory vise for Renzetti’s 50 year anniversary. They partnered with their friend and experienced woodworker, Gary Kokasiel to create a beautiful handcrafted box to house each Commemorative Grand Master Vise. Like all Renzetti vises, the Grand Master Vise is hand polished with the utmost attention to detail. It comes with a variety of additional accessories in the custom wood box: C-clamp lap extension, C-clamp, AuSable speed crank, spinning attachment, Clouser minnow arm, streamer pedestal bench, 3-inch stem extension, and midge jaws. There were only 100 of these made for the anniversary, and we still have some here.
Attachments& Tools
Renzetti has offered the option for anglers to customize their tying experience whether they are on an Apprentise or a Master with countless attachments and additional swappable modular components. They also manufacture some incredible tools in house. Some of our favorites are below.
Midge Jaw
The Midge Jaw from Renzetti is available for Traveler, P2,000, P4,000, and Master Vise configurations. This jaw is a staple for tiers who sometimes need a jaw that is smaller. The jaw swaps quickly for when one needs to tie up some microscopic bugs. If tiny flies are your forte, the P3,000 is the vise for you. The Midge Jaw is a fantastic option for the angler who has to tie extra small bugs often, but not exclusively.
Gamechanger Jaw
The Gamechanger Jaw is available for Traveler, P2,000, P4,000, and Master Vise configurations. It is staple for tiers who frequently tie gamechangers. Towards the rear of an articulated gamechanger, the shanks get increasingly smaller. The Gamechanger Jaw gives tiers extra space to work on a small shank.
Tool Bar
The Tool Bar from Renzetti was released a few years ago and is a popular option for anglers who want to store their tools on the shaft of their vise. The Tool Bar slides onto the shaft and conveniently swings around the shaft so it is always close by, but out of your way.
Tool Bar Station
The Tool Bar Station is a fixed option to secure up to three Tool Bars on a machined aluminum plate which sits right on your desk. It is a fantastic option for at home. When you’re on the road, you can always toss one or two of the Tool Bars right on your shaft for travel.
Bobbin Rest
The Bobbin Rest is available as an upgraded component for the Apprentise vise, as it comes stock with all other models. They allow you to rest your bobbin and free up a hand while prepping materials or palmering. They are universal and will work with any Renzetti vise if you happen to misplace the one that came with your vise.
Material Clip & Hook Retainer & Material Clip
Additional Material Clips are available for purchase in case you misplace your clip that came stock with your vise. There is also a Hook Retainer & Material Clip option for those of you who tie articulated flies which features a hook retainer to hold tension on the trailing hook. This is a game changer for articulated flies. Again, both material clips are not compatible with the Apprentise.
Flybar
The Flybar is a newer product from Renzetti which allows tiers to place their completed flies in foam slots for tying or short term storage until they make it into a Fly Puck or Fly Box. It can be installed on a Bobbin Rest, or on the end of a Tool Bar.
Soft Foam Caddy
The Soft Foam Caddy is a long standing Renzetti product that continues to be a tying bench staple to this day. It is a foam caddy which corrals your tools at your tying station. It has countless spaces for holding various tools, and is small and lightweight so it can be stowed when you do not need it.
Ruby Tip Bobbin
The Renzetti Ruby Tip Bobbin is a well known bobbin that features a ruby tip to protect thread. Threads can create grooves in tips of certain bobbins. A grooved bobbin will constantly pop your thread under pressure. The industry has adopted ceramic as a material to coat/create the tips of bobbins. While it is a huge step up from a metal tip, it is still prone to grooves from advanced threads like GSP style threads. The Ruby Tip Bobbin provides additional protection from thread carving grooves in your bobbin.
Renzetti Hair Stacker
Renzetti has three sizes of high quality hair stackers. The attention to detail can be felt the second they are picked up. A lightweight/cheap hair stacker does not effectively stack hair. These hair stackers will properly stack hairs in 3 sizes for anything you may be tying.
Warranty
Defects/ breaking components are extremely rare with Renzetti products. That is exactly why they have the fantastic reputation that we know them for. They have a lifetime warranty, so you know you are covered for life if anything arises regarding the original materials/ workmanship. If an issue does arise, Renzetti has fantastic customer service and will not hesitate to do everything in their power to help.
If you have any question or have trouble finding any of the mentioned products on our website please reach out to us directly. We are happy to help you get you started, or upgrade your vise, and enhance your tying experience.
-Simon
Phone: (541) 342-7005
Email: Support@caddisflyshop.com
My Renzetti Experience
I am familiar with just about every Renzetti model and have tied on most Renzetti staples. I have owned two Renzetti vises and countless tools and attachments from them. The reality is that with any Renzetti Vise you purchase, you really do not ever need to buy another, unless it has a feature that you overlooked purchasing your first vise from them. In terms of lifespan, these vises will outlive you and you will never need to replace it. As many tiers progress in their skill, it is not uncommon for tiers to upgrade their vise to match their skill and or perform a certain task better.
I started many, many years ago with a cheap rotary vise which did not last long. I quickly realized that a rotary vise is not the same as a true rotary one. The cheap vise did not last long and I quickly upgraded to a Traveler. Upon unboxing the difference in quality was immediately apparent and staggering. The true rotary function allowed me to both view the far side of my fly, and use the function to precisely palmer various materials. Proportions, segments, palmering, and more improved in the first few flies. Eventually, I upgraded to the larger streamer base which I recommend to anyone purchasing anything Traveler+. It improves stability, and although it is bigger, it is a must for me tying at home. You will always have the stock smaller base for when you travel.
I had the opportunity to purchase a Master , and I had a certain degree of imposter syndrome in the few days before acquiring it. The Master is a serious vise and I wanted to have good reason for owning one. Very quickly I realized a similar phenomenon emerged where I seriously raised the bar for myself using a vice of this caliber. This vise is one that, at some point in one’s life, they should own, or at least tie on. The Master finds itself most at home in your home. It is heavy, burly, and although it travels well, I typically relegate my Traveler to road trips. I do bring the Master to and from the shop for filming tying tutorials and to a local brewery, Falling Sky, for our monthly Community Nights. The Master as well as any of their vises travel fine in the Fishpond Tailwater Tying Kit.
A previous long-winded Master review is available here.
One thing that I have noticed every time that I have upgraded vises is that I improve as a tier almost instantly. There is a certain unspoken expectation that you should take more time, focus, and effort in creating better flies on a better vise. After purchasing my Traveler, I had a significant jump in skill. After purchasing my Master, the bar was raised even higher and I demanded better flies of myself tying on a “Master Vise”. This generally is not the reason that people upgrade their vises, but is an inadvertent plus that comes from purchasing yourself a better vise. Anyone drowning in too many hobbies to keep up with is familiar with this phenomenon.
My main vise these days is my Renzetti Master. It can be seen in our countless fly tying tutorials here on our Blog, YouTube, and Instagram accounts. It has tied me hundred of flies that have afforded me unforgettable days on the water. I have been won over by Renzetti’s unrelenting attention to detail and fine craftsmanship.
I have recommended many Renzetti Vises to friends and customers alike. Everything from an Apprentise to a Master, I have recommended or set people up with and have never heard negative feedback. Always, individuals are elated and are pleased with their purchase. Renzetti has a vise for everyone, and fantastic customer service to accompany you into your old years. Your Renzetti Vise will become a familiar evening companion that will grow old with you; like a friend that you have shared hundreds of hours with, and can enjoy each other’s company in silence.
If you have been considering treating yourself to a new vise, I highly recommend you sift through this guide and find what is right for you. I hope you lean into and reach up to the proverbial “raised bar” and enjoy your new vise and improved flies that your vise helped you craft.
If you have any question or have trouble finding any of the mentioned products on our website please reach out to us directly. We are happy to help you upgrade your vise, and enhance your tying experience.
P.S. If you are a tier, scour our Blog, YouTube, and Instagram account for hundreds of proven fly patterns proven across the world.
McKenzie River Fishing Guides and Rafting Tours, with support from the Lane County Cultural Coalition, are pleased to offer a 3-part workshop series on fly fishing and the heritage of the McKenzie River.
Workshops are Saturdays in April from 10 AM to 12 noon.
April 4th at McKenzie Rescue Training Center (42870 McKenzie Highway, Leaburg)
April 11th at McKenzie Rescue Training Center (42870 McKenzie Highway, Leaburg)
April 18th at locations on the river (TBD with your instructor-guide)
Register for your place in the workshop by completing this form. You will be able to select fee type. Upon completion of registration you will receive an automated email with payment information. We will send confirmation of payment once received. Unfortunately we cannot offer refunds for cancellations. Please be reasonably sure you can attend all three sessions, as there are no “make up” options.
Fee for the entire workshop (includes all 3 sessions):
Adult: $60
Senior/Youth: $35
Call Audrey at 425-420-3534 if you would rather register and make payment over the phone.
There few flies that are developed as general attractor patterns, but happen to really work for a very specific hatch. One of those patterns is Howard Croston’s Full Metal Jacket from our friends over at Fulling Mill for use fishing our spring March Brown hatch. The flies produced by Fulling Mill have an astounding level of consistency, which for this particular hatch is exceptionally important.
The flat profile of a clinger mayfly vastly differs from the more common swimming mayfly nymphs ex. baetis sp.
March Browns belong to the clinger family of mayflies which means they have a very unique body shape, silhouette, and leg configuration. There is nothing else hatching in our rivers this time of year that looks like a March Brown; in fact, we don’t have too many other major hatches of clinger mayflies aside from our beloved March Brown. Having consistent flies batch to batch is crucial with nymphs with as many unique attributes as March Browns.
Photo from shop regular Micah Bland
Clingers are characterized by their flat, ultra-streamlined bodies which allow them to thrive in areas of the river that other nymphs cannot. Their bodies are wide and their legs are burlier than swimming, burrowing, and crawling mayfly nymphs. March Browns, clinger mayflies broadly speaking, are the masters of adaptation and have filled a niche of the river that at one point was not habitable for larger, clumsy nymphs.
Howard Croston is an English fly angler, fly tier, fly designer for Fulling Mill, and member of the English National Fly Fishing Team. His Full Metal Jacket serves as an attractor pattern, but really excels for our spring March Brown hatch.
Note the hair that mimics a March Brown’s profile
The FMJ’s construction really caters to the clinger family of mayflies. A collar of hair holds its shape and provides an extra wide body near the bead, similar to a March Brown nymphs natural taper. The body of the fly is constructed of a biot and provides both realistic texture and segmentation.
I believe I read somewhere that the extra-heavy drop tungsten bead is fixed with solder for additional weight. This is perfect for spring as we can have unpredictable high flows. The FMJ’s slim body cuts through the water, with the collar/legs still providing a wider, tapered silhouette that our trout are currently keyed in on.
It is worth noting that Croston does have a Spring Brown Jig that is another fantastic option for the March Brown hatch. The beauty of the Full Metal Jacket is that it is versatile and can be fished year round as well. It is a fantastic attractor pattern that can be run under a large gold chubby in the summer, or under an oros indicator in the middle of winter.
– Simon
If you want to tie some, the recipe is listed below. The possibilities are endless with color & size combinations.
Please join us next Tuesday the 24th at Falling Sky for our monthly Community Fly Fishing & Tying Night. All are welcome, we can always expect our regulars to show up, but we have had a huge influx of new folks showing up. If you have been meaning to drop in, but haven’t, it is a great time as there have been plenty of new faces at the last few events.
Our last community night last month was a massive success as we raffled off a guided stillwater trip with Adison (@soggywaders on instagram). See photos from last month’s gathering. If you didn’t win the raffle and are interested in getting out with him, please contact the shop to get in his books (541) 342-7005. Adison also wrote a fantastic article on how to get after Smallies from the bank locally, click here to read up. We’ve got everything you need at the shop to have a successful day.
If you haven’t been to one, it is a monthly gathering that we do over at Falling Sky. It is a great excuse to get together and talk about fly fishing, tie flies, meet new people in the community, usher in newbies, etc. See the bottom of this post for the full schedule for 2026.
Tiers are encouraged to bring their vise and materials and tie flies if they choose. We will still continue with the monthly fly swap for tiers who participate. If you aren’t planning on tying, but want to bring a hand tied fly, you are welcome to bring one from home.
We have gotten in some gifts from our friends at Fulling Mill & Trout Unlimited that we will parcel out to those participating in the fly swap. We won’t give everything out this month, as we will stretch the prizes over the next few months but if you participate in the fly swap, you will have a chance to win something.
Where: Falling Sky Brewing [1334 Oak Alley Eugene, OR 9740]
When: Tuesday, March 24th at 6:30
What: Fly tying, new friends, prizes, great food, great beer, fly swap, and connecting with the community.
Falling Sky has great beer and some very talented chefs working hard in the back. Their burgers and sandwiches are fantastic, if you choose either of those you have to try the truffle fries. They also have a fantastic bacon loaded truffle Mac and Cheese. Stephen, the owner, has been generous enough to host us monthly for a year and a half. He is a fly angler himself and always makes his rounds. Be sure to extend your gratitude to the man who has made this happen every month for well over a year.
We can always expect our regulars to show up monthly. We also encourage new people to swing by. We have had a massive influx of new faces and new anglers, so it is a great time to stop by if you’ve been hesitant. Whether you’re a veteran to community night or brand new, we are looking forward to seeing you Tuesday!
Help spread the word!
-Simon
2026 Schedule
Community Nights will land on the third Tuesday of each month for 2026. Some dates are subject to change, so keep a close eye for updates.
Tuesday January 20th at 6:30
Tuesday February 17th at 6:30
Tuesday March 24th at 6:30 (Initial date of the 17th changed Due to St. Patricks)
The long awaited March Brown hatch each spring is notorious for having fantastic fishing swinging soft hackles. In this video, Simon ties a simple March Brown using one of Ahrex’s newer hooks, the LE880. March Browns have a tendency to shed their nymphal shuck subsurface. This creates cripples and stillborns suspended in the water column. Fish are already keyed in on ascending nymphs, but also will likely pick off an ascending bug in a bind. This fly features a hidden tungsten bead which aids in getting the fly down during higher spring flows. Swinging this fly is a dream for the March Brown hatch and will equally be enjoyed on a 9′ 5wt or an 11′ 3wt trout spey. The bead can certainly be removed for situations where you don’t need to get as deep. The bump of Fulling Mill Eco Warrior Dub is dubbed tight, but will pick out and add extra bugginess as the fly gets chewed on. The Fulling Mill CDC bubble is suggestive of an emerging dun and excels when the fly is beadless at holding the fly in the film. The beadless version of this fly makes a fantastic trailing cripple to run behind a dun. Tie some up and hang on tight.
In this video, Simon ties a fantastic gold stone pattern with a large bead that excels in high water. Gold Stones take their time in their nymph stage and can take several years to mature into flying adults. This means there are always varying sizes of Gold Stones in the river making themThe fly utilizes a newer material from Hareline, their Stillwater Chenille which has a fantastic natural shimmer to it. The Canadian brown color makes a fantastic match for golden stones, especially paired with a ginger marabou tail. The large bead helps the fly get deep and the legs and marabou tail cast a large silhouette making the fly a fantastic option for high water. The legs on this fly are brand new from hareline and are triple barred perfectly matching the color scheme of the body and maximizing movement. We recently have had some rain and will start seeing some spring runoff so this fly will fish great over the next couple of months. It is a fantastic searching pattern and will fish well in the summer as well, just size down the bead for lower water.
The annual Fly Tier & Fly Fisher Expo is happening this weekend up in Albany. For over 15 years, the Fly Fishers International Oregon Council has been bringing locals together for the annual Fly Tying & Fishing Expo. At the expo you can find many of our best local fly tiers displaying their work and tying their famed patterns in real time. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn some new tying techniques, or see what tying is all about if you don’t tie yourself.
In addition to the tiers, the expo will have over 45 vendors with booths setup. Everyone from local businesses, clubs, conservation groups, etc will be there. Accomplished fly casters will be displaying their skills, and offering demonstrations. There are 8+ classes to choose from covering fly tying, euro nymphing, Stillwater angling, and more. There also will be some items raffled off, tickets can be purchased at the expo.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is planning to release flow pulse from Cougar Dam on the South Fork McKenzie River as soon as Friday, March 6th for up to five days. The release will result in higher and faster-moving water for up to five days, which will create potentially hazardous conditions for recreational users and may cause minor inundation in low-lying areas downstream of the dam to the confluence of the South Fork McKenzie and the mainstem McKenzie Rivers. The increased flows will help move juvenile spring Chinook salmon and bull trout downstream, supporting ongoing fish passage efforts in the McKenzie River Basin. The water releases are also intended to activate recently restored side channels and floodplain areas, which improves the ecosystem and creates better rearing habitat for fish.
While these releases are within the dam’s standard operational range, they do not coincide with naturally occurring higher inflows. Recreators who are used to a lower river and no significant rain may be surprised by the rapid increase in flow. The USACE primary goal is to ensure the safety of the public by warning recreational users (boaters, anglers, campers, hikers, etc.) of these changing river conditions. We are reaching out to you to help us coordinate public communication efforts.
I hosted two weeks at Christmas Island Lodge this January. The lodge sits near the old Captain Cook Hotel property and has 12 airconditioned rooms and a central meeting “maneaba” for guests to enjoy the beachside breeze, meals and happy hour. Speaking of breeze, my two weeks enjoyed a steady 17-25mph wind! The wind is very normal and makes it easy for guides to always set anglers up to fish down-wind. The wind also makes staying at Christmas Island Lodge super pleasant. Each room is within a few steps of the beach and full exposure to the breeze. I spoke to other anglers staying at other lodges and the tropical island heat and humidity are a constant when you are located inland, not so at CIL.
Christmas Island is of course noted for its consistent numbers of bonefish. Expansive light-colored flats and 160 square miles of lagoon, are an ideal habitat for bonefish that range 2-6lbs on average. We did have several fish landed that exceeded the 6lbs.
Other fish are present at Christmas Island, Giant Trevally and Trigger Fish get the most interest but Blue Fin Trevally, Striped Trevally, Wrasse and more are fun to catch as well.
Week one we had outgoing tides for the most part. It seemed that bonefish were not on the flats as long as they were the following week, which enjoyed a shorter window of dropping, and a longer window of rising tide during the fishing day.
The fishing program at Christmas Island Lodge is super well organized. on arrival day, anglers are given an orientation about how each day will work, the schedule, location, tide, and transportation are discussed. Not only was this program laid out day one, but it was also followed each day to the letter. Shortly after the orientation, anglers are assisted with tackle set up so that they are prepared for their targeted species. Christmas Island Lodge does not supply any tackle; anglers must bring their own equipment.
Ideal gear included a 7-9wt for bones, 9-10wt for triggers and 10-12wt for trevally species. Floating saltwater lines, 12ft leaders, bonefish tippet 12-20lbs, triggers tipped 20-30lbs, Trevally tippet 60-100lbs. Excellent quality flats boots are a critical piece of equipment at Christmas Island. Many of our 24 anglers over the course of two weeks used the Korkers Salt Sneaker. The Korkers Salt Sneaker is super light but provides excellent support, comfort and protection from the coral at CXI.
I had a chance to try out the new for Spring 2026 Patagonia River Salt Wading Boot 2.0. The River Salt 2.0 was fantastic. Like the Korkers flats boot its lightweight. The Cordura and mesh upper is extremely durable. A draw cord and standard lacing system is included with each pair of boots. I tried both and both worked well. The draw cord system was a little bit cleaner as it tucked away under the tongue of the boot. The traditional laces made getting in and out of the boot a touch easier. Like Patagonia’s Forra Boot the River Salt 2.0 looks and wears more like a hiking boot. I wear a 10.5 tennis shoe and wore a 10 River Salt 2.0 with a super thin 2.5mm Backcountry Skin Quick Flowz Neoprene sock. If I had worn a 3.5mm neoprene sock a size 11 would have been a consideration. The sole of the new River Salt is a Vibram “Megagrip”. It was awesome on the coral and when grip was important getting in and out of a wet boat. I can see the River Salt 2.0 being used in freshwater as well, the Megagrip sole was super sticky. Think New Zealand, Alaska, South America, spots where felt is not allow and you walk a bit during your fishing day.
Christmas Island Lodge’s ideal location allows it to show anglers a large portion of the atoll. I found this intentional attempt to give anglers the overview of the very large fishing area a real plus. We fished the lagoon, the Korean Wreck, Huff Dam, Backcountry and even fished the Bluewater outside of the lagoon.
We had some serious highlights from the two weeks. First and foremost, the camaraderie among our groups. When fathers, sons, and close friends make up the entirety of the 12 anglers, you are going to have a good time. The staff and local community that helps run Christmas Island Lodge are super kind, conscientious, and responsive. You ask, they will do their very best to accommodate. For a place that has access to so little, the customer service ethos is amazing.
The weather, despite a few clouds the consistency of light that allows for hunting fish is outstanding.
After gaffing/landing a large Tuna on a spinning rod, one of our guides straddled a 45-50lbs Yellowfin Tuna. The bleeding, gaffed, clubbed, gaffed, and clubbed again, Tuna is gyrating between said guides legs for a good 10 seconds. Until, he reached under the gill plate elbow deep and grabs the beating heart and pops it in his mouth! Yep he did.
For first time saltwater anglers, catching multiple bonefish is a highlight at CXI. Other than the Seychelles CXI might be the best place to make this happen.
Interacting with the people of CXI was a highlight of everyone’s trip. Musicians and dancers presented one night per week. The genuine joy they displayed was really cool.
Of course, the fishing. While we didn’t crush it either week there are plenty of bonefish, triggers and GT’s to be had.
Caddis Fly Travel is available to answer and questions and book your trip to Christmas Island Lodge. Please email us at travel@caddisflyshop.com for current availability and planned hosted trips to Christmas Island Lodge.
Our friends over at Native Fish Society are commencing their annual Babine for a Benjamin Raffle. The Babine is a world class steelhead river up in British Columbia that spey anglers’ dreams are made of. Tickets are $100 and limited to a quantity of 150. Proceeds go towards Native Fish Society’s mission of conserving our precious watersheds and the species that depend on them. Help spread the word!
Buy Tickets for the Babine for a Benjamin Raffle HERE.
Raffle Details: Tickets: $100 each Only 150 tickets available Ticket sales: February 1 – March 2 Drawing: Tuesday, March 3 at 3pm
Trip Details: One lucky angler will win: A full week (October 23–30, 2026) of prime-time guided steelhead fishing World-class accommodations and gourmet meals at the amazing Babine Steelhead Lodge in Smithers, BC
Not Included: Does not include travel to Smithers, B.C., taxes, gratuities, or licenses.
When you purchase a Babine for a Benjamin Raffle Ticket, you’re not just entering to win a one-in-a-lifetime week on the Babine River – you’re also helping protect and revive wild abundance on rivers like the lower Deschutes right here in the Pacific Northwest. All raffle ticket proceeds directly help fund our Conservation Campaign efforts.
Embarking on a momentous year for the Deschutes River, Native Fish Society staff and partners are completing a number of scientific studies to ensure the management of the lower Deschutes protects wild, native fish to the greatest extent possible.
Want to dive deeper into Native Fish Society’s Deschutes work? Check out our recent Deschutes Diaries, where we delve into the dynamics of the river, examining its past, present, and future challenges.
Your $100 raffle ticket purchase helps make this work possible.This is your chance to experience some of the finest dry line steelhead fishing in the world while directly supporting the future of wild fish closer to home.Whether or not your ticket is drawn, your support creates ripples of impact – reviving wild fish, restoring rivers, and ensuring these fish and experiences still exist for generations to come.
Winter steelhead fishing is decent to exceptional right now! With good reports coming from up and down the Oregon Coast there is no reason you should be sitting at home on your days off. Most hatchery runs are reaching their peaks, but will have have fresh fish coming in through March. There a lot of fish in those rivers. The North Umpqua and other rivers with strong wild returns have been steady all season with natural lulls and upticks. Expect those systems to only increase in productivity through the season’s end. It is time to get out there!
The Oregon Coast in the winter – my favorite place on Earth!
We had some serious low water throughout the end of January and early February. I enjoy low water winter steelhead fishing. My Outcast Clearwater loves technical low water boating. Its been a fun tool in the program the last few seasons. It lets me fish and helps me safely navigate waters most people won’t get to in low water. I know not everyone loves low water, but it is when fly fishing for winter steelhead can be most productive. Especially this season because the rivers were not low and that cold; they were just low. Last season I fished water as cold as 36 more than a couple times. This season the lowest I have fished is 40, but it only stayed like that for a few days. Most of the low water fishing has been 43-47 degrees which is ideal biter temps according to my spreadsheet.
Regardless of my love for low water it lowered the morale of some anglers, but those who kept at it found consistent fishing with few anglers around. This consistent fishing signaled a promising return year. There just wasn’t enough water to cause a rush upriver. Optimism remained high because those who went fishing felt when the rains finally return a horde of fish would follow. And optimism has prevailed!
If you know, you know
Outlook
A lot of people give up too early in their winter steelhead season. Mid Feb to March/first week of April (depending on river system) is the time to fish. Fresh fish and lingering ones will be around. I would fish wherever you feel like. Or wherever conditions allow. From here on till the season’s end you can count on at least some willing players in your favorite waters. Looks like we might be in for a wetter end of the season as usual with a lot of rain expected over the next few days. It can really on only be wetter than its been so far, right?
A fine buck showing his colors
Gear
For spey poles I fish a Sage R8 8126 with a 625gr Max Power from Rio because I like to huck. We have gotten in our season’s order of Burkheimers for the more cultured anglers. Maybe treat yourself to a Galvan Swing or a Loop Classic reel. On smaller rivers I swing with a working class Echo SR 8wt. A rod that does what it needs to do: cast heavy stuff, short distances with ease and put the wood to hot fish in close quarters. This season I have been alternating between 500gr or 540gr Struznik Skagit Timberline. A great new fishing Skagit head from RIO. The rod seems to perform fine with either, I’ve been running the 500.
In my straightforward steelheader’s brain weight and profile trump color in fly selection. Your fly just needs to be different than the last guy’s. It needs to be aggravating. Fish different weight flies with different tips. Once you have figured out your local runs you will know which combo fishes it best. We are well stocked on Hoh Bo Speys and Signature Intruders. Two production patterns I have landed winter steelhead on! We also have some awesome Winter Steelhead Flies from local guide and renowned tyer Jim Sens in right now.
Of course it is had to beat “egg patterns”. I have gotten exceptional use out of a set of Echo Ion XLs in 7wt and 8wt models. These rods can plop over whatever amount of weight is required of them. Especially the 8. Not too many manufactures make an 810 anymore. An ION XL 810 offers excellent value, performance and unparalleled cost per fish caught (not guaranteed). Another option is the the Redington Wrangler 710. The 7wt 10′ option is the most budget friendly steelhead rod on the market at $200. Finish either off with a SA Anadro Indicator Line and some egg patterns for a successful end to winter steelhead season.
Thanks for reading and hammer down out there! -Robbie
Join Caddis Fly Shop and The Redsides Chapter of Trout Unlimited as they welcome Springfield, OR-based author, angler, and conservationist Jesse Lance Robbins for an evening of fly fishing storytelling and discussion. Jesse will read selections from his debut book The Best Fly Fishing is Everywhere, and talk about his journeys and misadventures around the globe, in the fly fishing industry and as a writer, which led him to nonprofit conservation work.
What: Book launch, reading, discussion and signing When: Thursday, March 5 th at 6:00 p.m. Where: Caddis Fly Shop, 168 West 6th Ave., Eugene, OR 97401 Why: For fun, inspiration, and fishing karma
Event is free to attend. Books will be available for purchase, and complimentary refreshments will be served.
About the book: In The Best Fly Fishing Is Everywhere, Robbins invites readers into a contemplative journey through water and time. This collection of essays, stories, and meditations moves beyond the pursuit of the perfect cast or the biggest catch. Instead, it explores fly fishing as a dialogue between human and nature, solitude and connection, movement and stillness. From the misty rivers of Oregon to the urban waters of Tokyo, the windswept flats of Key West to the trout-laced waters of New Zealand, Robbins captures the essence of place and the spirit of the angler. Each chapter is a moment suspended—sometimes triumphant, sometimes humbling, always honest.
“Jesse Lance Robbins has an eye for the unusual, the intriguing, and the downright surprising. Whether cataloguing obscene quantities of flies, delineating the precise qualities of a good cast, or simply sharing an old fashioned fishing tale, Robbins’ eye for the unsung details that make fly fishing such a distinctive and special obsession is unmatched.” —Jason Rolfe, editor of The Flyfish Journal
About the author: Jesse Lance Robbins is an essayist, creative writer, and journalist whose work has appeared in The Drake Magazine, The Flyfish Journal, Swing the Fly, Modern Huntsman, TROUT, and Atlantic Salmon Journal, as well as online. Jesse has worked in and lived various facets of fly fishing since high school—from fly shop staff, trout bum, guide, casting instructor, trip host, and writer to tackle design and development, marketing, travel, and sales; for over a decade, he worked in-house at Sage, Redington, RIO Products, and Fly Water Travel. He now works in nonprofit fisheries, river, and water conservation, connecting people with the places they love, and the work being done to protect and restore them. A native of midcoast Maine, Jesse and his partner live near the confluence of the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers in Oregon with their cache of old boats, timeless books, acoustic guitars, and always-strung fly rods.
Click and pawl reels have a special spot in many angler’s hearts. Traditionalists, purists, and those who appreciate a simpler design that requires more finesse are drawn to these reels. Nowadays, consumers can purchase heavy duty sealed disk drags that can stop the largest fish in their tracks. The draw of a click in pawl lies in its elegance and function. A light drag means an angler must use much more finesse when fighting a fish with a clicker. This creates a stronger connection between each fish and the angler; a fully immersed, more mindful experience that levels the playing field between cat and mouse.
Photo of an Iwana from Tokyoflyfishing
Iwana reels are crafted in British Columbia, but were born on a trip of a lifetime chasing the elusive Iwana Salvelinus leucomaenis, a char sometimes referred to as a trout. This salmonid makes its home in the cold mountain streams of Japan. These fish sport a dark colored background with light spots like many char, they resemble our juvenile Bull Trout. Liu Shaojie, a classic reel designer, and Wang Liang, an avid fly fisherman and traveler teamed up after their trip to give birth to Iwana.
Iwana produces high quality click and pawl classic reels. They aim to bring traditional clicker reels back on the river. Timeless silhouettes and proven click drag systems are produced with modern CNC machining capabilities, giving rise to a classic reel with tighter tolerances, more consistency, and an overall higher quality.
The Minami comes in two sizes: 2 3/4″ and 3 inches. The smaller 2 3/4″ is better suited for smaller rods ranging from 2-4 wt. Its light design makes it a fantastic option for shorter creek rods from 6’6″ to 8’4″; it certainly is not too light for a 9″ 4 wt either. The 3″ reel is better suited for rods ranging 4-6wt. If you have a 4 wt and are deciding between the two sizes, I would run the smaller 2 3/4″ on a shorter 4wt, and the larger 3″ reel on a standard 9″ 4wt. It comes in a gorgeous deep green, black, and silver.
The Minami is built lighter and simpler than the Retro Trout which in my opinion makes it a better option for lighter and shorter rods. It has a solid side plate opposite of the handle, and classic oval porting on the spool. It also features a much higher pitched click, which I generally associate with smaller rods. It makes a fantastic option for you if you’ve never had a click and pawl reel before.
The Retro Trout is more complex and flashy compared to the Minami. The first thing you notice is the elegant “S” handle on the reel, which echoes a time gone by. The Retro Trout features a heavier frame and separate colored spool. The spool nests between one solid side of the frame, and the other ported side. This creates a gorgeous contrast between the darker external frame and lighter spool. The Retro Trout also features Iwana’s cased caddis logo.
Sizing for the Retro Trout is more complex as it comes in more size options and comes in several widths. There are two sizes for the 2 3/4″: small and wide. The small is a good fit for 1-3wt rods and the wide being good for 2-4 wts. The next size up is the 3″ which works for 3-5 wt rods, with the weight I’d lean more towards 4 and 5 wt. Lastly, there is a 3 1/4″ and that is for 4-6 wts, personally I’d lean more towards 5 and 6.
My Thoughts With my Reel from Iwana
I want to share my experience with my reel from Iwana. I was torn between the more simple Minami, and the flashier Retro Trout. I opted for the 3 inch Retro Trout because I preferred the elegant “S” handle and two toned porting. The black frame paired with a silver spool created a gorgeous contrast. I also like that the Retro Trout has Iwana’s logo on it. A simple cased caddis design was something I didn’t mind having on my reel. The Retro Trout is slightly heavier and balances the 10′ 4wt Winston Air 2 Reach, which is my current nymphing stick.
The timeless silhouette of the Retro Trout instantly caught my eye. The reel feels good in hand. It is slightly heavy in the best way where you can feel quality craftsmanship and materials. The clicking sound is audibly pleasing for those who can appreciate a good click and pawl mechanism. The Retro Trout has a deeper click which I prefer for a larger rod when compared to the Minami.
Initially, I ran this reel on my winter, big water dry fly rod which is a Winston Air 2 9′ 5wt. I got impatient as Baetis hatches this winter have been inconsistent with the fluctuating weather, and I just wanted to hear my new click and pawl reel scream. I am running a 5wt Scientific Anglers Amplitude Textured Anadro Indicator wf5f on the rod and reel. For a line with such a large head, it fits nicely on the 3 inch Retro Trout. I think squeezing that line on a Minami would be more difficult.
My Retro Trout has a gotten a lot of use recently and I have caught several large 16+ fish that have awoken the reel’s deep clicking scream. I historically ran sealed disk or cork drags with more stopping power on my nymphing rod. I associated clickers with the purists’ dry fly fishing, but am pleased I have a nymphing setup with one now, especially in the winter when it meets more fish.
Choosing between the Minami and the Retro Trout was difficult; once I picked the Retro Trout picking between black and green was even more difficult. The deep emerald green color that they have for both the Retro Trout and the Minami is gorgeous. It is a rich green that is reminiscent of a Winston blank; as I primarily fish Winstons, I decided against the green, and chose something with more contrast. I am planning on adding a Minami to my collection this summer for one of my lighter rods. It will follow me up into the mountains fishing smaller tributaries and spring creeks, singing a high pitched scream all afternoon.
Iwana has redefined the classic click and pawl reel. By looking to the past for silhouettes, proportions, and design and looking at the present by incorporating contemporary CNC machining processes, they have created functional works of art. These reels feel most at home in the hands of an angler that takes things slow, and wants a deeper connection between themselves and the fish on the end of their line. The tactile clicking of the reel, the audible scream of the drag, the finesse needed to land a large fish on a traditional reel, these are all ways that Iwana offers the in tune angler a more immersive angling experience.
If you’re local and want to check one of these out, please swing by the shop. We are happy to help you find the best reel from Iwana for your needs. If you are out of state you can shop online here. If you have questions, give us a ring (541) 342-7005, email us support@caddisflyshop.com, or message us on instagram @caddisflyshop for help.
Everyone knows squirmy worms work whether you like them or not. Silicone squirmy material has a serious Achilles’ heel. The silicone the worms are made of is extremely fragile. If you crank too hard with thin, but strong thread it breaks. Sun exposure causes melts and splits. Summer heat degrades the material. It is prone to being beat up by fish teeth and torn up and breaking. Our friends over at Montana Fly Company developed a genius solution to this issue. They coated a small chenille core with silicone material. This heavy chenille core is similar to the material used in a San Juan worm; it is virtually indestructible. With Trina’s Squirm Material from Montana Fly Co, you get the durability of a San Juan Worm with the realistic look that a squirmy provides. With this upcoming rain in the forecast, the rivers will bump in flow and this fly will be a staple until levels drop.
