Friday, December 23, 2011

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! 

You Are Looking At My Favorite Fishing Spot In The Whole Wide World!

Can't wait to get back to New Mexico this Spring to do some fishing. The first thing I am going to do is give my friend David Cooper a huge bear hug! Second, I am going to make the 3 mile hike down to the spot you see in the photo and just sit for a moment and thank the Heavenly Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for another incredible day on the river.

As beautiful as this stream is, I can only imagine the beauty that God has in store for us all in heaven! I really hope we get to Fly Fish when we get there :-)!


Merry Christmas and Thank You For Following Our Blog! 

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Tailwaters Anglers

Tailwater Anglers

Matthew Clifton
Owner & Guide

505-334-6758

Matthew Clifton, owner of Tailwater Anglers is now using Flyline Search Marketing to design and manage his Google Adwords advertising program.
Matt has been guiding San Juan River float trips and wade fishing on the historic San Juan for more than 5 years. The photo shown in the upper left of this post is that of Mark Lein, CEO of Flyline Search Marketing. Mark and his father Roy Lein, spent a day on the San Juan, fishing with Matt. The fishing was incredibly productive as you can see from the photo above. As fishing tends to do, the day also produced a new friendship.

Roy Lein Enjoying The San Juan River

Sunday, October 30, 2011

New Mexico's Most Productive Fishery


Chama River
El Vado Ranch

Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico

One of New Mexico's best fisheries is the Chama river. I have been fishing this particular stretch of river for more than 45 years. The fish we caught this year during our visits in April and September were a bit smaller than the 36 inch monsters my pops and grandfather used to pull out 40 years ago. That said, they were still incredibly solid fish and full of fight. Check out the photo to the right. This Brown Trout was caught in September during a huge rain storm. The Chama river is absolutely loaded with native brown trout, similar to the one pictured. The river offers the perfect breeding area for these fish. There are major bug hatches during year, plus the rainbows spawn in April filling the river with minnows. The Browns spawn later in October, again providing food opportunities for the larger fish. 


Beware - Monster Browns Are Lurking In These Waters


  

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Getting To Know Fishing Regulations In Your New Area

It is important to learn the local fishing regulations when moving to a new area. This could save you the trouble and needless expense of facing a hefty fine for a rule infraction. Each state has specific rules and regulations in regards to fishing.  Keep these tips in mind when you relocate after a move:

Your Best Source for Information

It is imperative that you receive accurate information about the specific rules and regulations of fishing in your new area. The last thing you want is to receive a citation and pay a stiff fine simply for lack of local fishing regulation knowledge. Turn to your state’s fish and game website. This can be easily hunted down on Google by typing your state’s name and the keywords, “fish and game.” Click on your state’s link and research the regulation section. Most websites allow you to download the fishing guide for future reference.

My Fishing Regulations
Each state has specific requirements. We encourage you to check into the regs once you move into a new area. Study the guide to familiarize yourself. Look for these items to see if your new location has different regulations.

·       Check on daily limits for caught fish.  Pay special attention to weight and size requirements.

·       Research special licenses for multiple poles and types of fish.

·       Know your setlines, trotlines, float lines and bank lines.  

·       Verify the size of throwbacks.

·       Check to see about licensing as you might be required to purchase separate fresh water and saltwater licenses.

·       Verify what your state says in regards to specific guidelines on displaying your license on your person.

·       Research specific catch and release information.

·       Familiarize yourself with types of equipment that can be used to catch fish.

·       Know the open and closing season dates on each species of fish you are interested in.   

·       Know your gear requirements. There are certain regulations for nets and lines.

·       You always need to be aware if you fish in a lake or river which adjoins two or more state lines, it might be necessary to obtain multiple state licenses.

·       If you have relocated to the coastal areas, check your local Marine Life Protection Act. It will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the ins and outs of marine life rules and regulations, which can be applied to your next ocean fishing trip.

 
Moving to a new state? Many states offer reduced rates for seniors as well as life-term residents. Learn the minimum age for obtaining a fishing license. Each state has different requirements. Some states are sixteen years of age, others fifteen years of age, and some require them to carry identification verifying their age.


View Photo Gallery of Historic San Juan River Fishing Trip



              

Sunday, October 16, 2011

It's Fall on the Appalachian Trail

View of Hudson River & Bear Mountain Bridge From Appalachian Trail


Appalachian Trail

Georgia to Maine

2,181 Miles / 3510 Kilometers



Fall on the Appalachain Trail provides an incredible opportunity to do some long distance mountain trail running. You can connect to the Appalachian Trail by driving to Amicalola Falls and jumping onto the connector trails that lead to Springer Mountain. From the ranger station to Springer is approximately 8.5 miles. It's a challenging run so carry lots of water with you. On an average Summer day, I personally go through at least four 16oz drinks when making the round trip. That doesn't include the extra water bottle I take for dumping on my head to cool off. In the Fall, you can get away with carrying about half that amount. 


View of Roan Mountains from Appalachian Trail



  


The trails near the Amicalola Park are challenging, but, perfect for mountain trail runners striving to improve their game. There are many excellent pieces of trail, similar to those pictured above, that are very conducive for running. Don't be fooled though. The connector trails are loaded with technical opportunities, roots, rocks, downed trees and streams. Be prepared for a day of gorgeous scenary and challenging terrain.








                 

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Tools for Finding Trails in Your New Neighborhood


La Luz Trail

Albuquerque

New Mexico



You have closed escrow and are done moving into your new house. Your clothes are put away and you are excited to discover and explore all your new neighborhood has to offer. The adventurer in you is ready to hit the nearest trail. But, before you head out to discover your local trails, use these tips to make the most of your next run, walk or hike:


1. Your Local Bookstore or Library: Your local library is still a valuable resource when searching for unknown trails. They offer books and maps which feature detailed trails and the best part is they are free. If you prefer owning your maps and books, head out to your nearest bookstore. Browse the hiking section for maps and books, which will lead you to undiscovered trails. And, don’t forget to talk to your new librarian or bookstore employee. You never know where you might uncover a secret trail near your new house.

2. The Internet: If you prefer to shop or search online, visit websites like www.trails.com to discover a variety of information on trail running. There is an array of websites devoted to trail running. It takes a little research time, but you can usually unearth running trails in your neighborhood. The Internet can also be a great resource for finding running buddies or websites devoted to local trails. Blogs or community boards can give you tips on little known trails off the beaten path. Connect with other local runners, walkers or hikers to discover some of the best running trails.

3. Local Government Entities: After you move, visit your federal, state or local government website or offices for detailed and informative information on local trail running. Websites like http://www.fws.gov/ provide accurate information on local trails near you. They will provide you with trail locations, weather conditions, special permits and other pertinent information to make your run a success. The same can be said about your state or local government. Most states and cities have comprehensive websites for residents. They offer detailed information and insight into your local community trails and outdoor activities.

4. Talk to Your Neighbors: Your new neighbors can prove to be the best resources for discovering local running trails -- even if you don’t think they are runners or hikers. Their brother or cousin might be an avid trail runner. You can never tell who has an interest in running, and you might just miss out on the opportunity to discover a whole new world right in your own backyard.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Fishing The San Juan With My Father


San Juan River

Near Farmington, New Mexico


If you have never fished the San Juan river you are missing a real treat. I took my father on a float trip down the San Juan a few weeks ago and he and I had a fabulous time. We caught a ton of fish and our guide, Matthew Cliffton, owner of Tailwaters Anglers, did an outstanding job.


The San Juan River area we fished was directly below the Lake Navajo State Park & Dam. In fact, the most famous section of the river, known as the "Texas Hole," was actually in sight of the dam. The water is crystal clear and the river extremely deep. We could actually see hundreds of huge trout swimming beneath our boat in virtually every section of the river we floated. We fished fast and slow moving sections and did equally well in both. The flys we used were called "Midges." The flys are incredibly small and are set up with barbless hooks. When you first see the flys your initial reaction is I can hardly see the thing, how are the fish going to find it. Don't worry, they will find it and they will bite it!    
Here are more photos of the trip so you can get some perspective on this incredible stream. To see the full gallery from the float trip, click here: (http://flylineusa.com/san-juan-river-float-trip.html).


I have been fishing with my father since I was a little boy. He made sure to introduce me, my brothers and my sister to the mountains and to fishing at a very early age. My dad and my mom both enjoy camping and being in the mountains. Given that dad has trouble wading these days, this float trip seemed like the perfect solution. It was and Dad and I both had a great time! Thank you Lord for giving us this special time together!

 
















See a complete photo gallery of the trip, Click Here.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Jackson Lake - Brown Trout, Rainbow, Cutthroat & Grayling



Jackson Lake

Near Jackson Hole, Wyoming


There are some absolutely gorgeous rivers and lakes in and around the Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks. Check out this footage taken at Jackson Lake. The Grand Tetons make an incredible backdrop wouldn't you agree?

Friday, June 10, 2011

Chama River Footage



Chama River in Northern New Mexico

The state of New Mexico offers incredible beauty that is truly unique in our country. While there are plenty of states that can boast to having great trout fishing, New Mexico stands alone in it's blend of red rock mountains, scenic vistas, huge sky, gorgeous trout streams and wild wild west look and feel. That probably explains why so many motion pictures are being filmed in the state these days. The video we have included in this post was taken from a spot where you are about as close to heaven on earth as one can get. Hope you enjoy the footage.

The value of our experience here on earth cannot be measured by how much money we accumulate, how big a house we own, what type of car we drive, nor by how many stocks we own. There are truly more important measurements we should all be considering. Here are 10 things I feel are important enough to share with you.

1) Live by faith each and everyday of your life

2) Take at least a few minutes to pray each day. We truly have much to be thankful for.

3) Enjoy the beauty that is all around us. God created this place for us.

4) Share our faith with others as we take our walk with the Lord.

5) Respect God's creation by leaving this planet a better place than we found it.

6) Take time to fish. It's good for the spirit!

7) Remember to tell those special people in your life that you "Love Them."

8) Share your thoughts and feelings with those around you by taking time to write them down.

9) Spend time in the mountains. They provide a wonderful get away from busy city life. They deliver peace and solitude to the weary and give you time to reflect and time to talk with God!

10) Have fun during your life! It's the only one you or I have! Lets agree that we won't waste our chance to really "Live It!"


May the grace and blessings of our heavenly father be with you all the days of your life! Make the most of your walk with the Lord while you are here!


Yours in Christ,


Mark Lein




                    

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Chama River

Chama River, not far from Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico
(Hint - Turn Your Speaker Volume Up and Enjoy The Sounds of the River Flowing By)

If you are looking for some great trout fishing, I suggest you make a visit to New Mexico. There are plenty of great spots, loaded with scrappy Brown, Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout, just waiting to meet you. If you've never been to the state, I highly recommend a visit. There is just something about this place that is absolutely magical. For me, it's the majestic mountain ranges, rivers and incredible smell of the sage brush, junipers and river reeds. I can go there and within minutes those wonderful aromas are drifting through my nostrils and I am at peace.



 


The Chama river is stocked, but, is full of native Browns that are usually in the mood to eat. The best natural baits are worms and salmon eggs. If you are more of a purest, try a number 12 or 14 Elk Hair Caddis or a streamer, such as an olive Woolly Bugger. The bait choice really depends on the time of year that you are fishing this river. There is no shame in using a worm if it's a slow fishing day! Remember, the idea is to catch fish and have a great time on the river. Sometimes, people become so focused on fly fishing they forget that rule! This river can sometimes challenge even the most experienced fisherman. In all my years of fishing the Chama, I have walked past hundreds of decked out fly guys who had empty creels. Not me :-)!

Here are a few more pictures of the area to give you an idea of just how beautiful this place is.