Category Archives: Flies and Fly Tying

Fran Better’s Wonderful Dry Fly “The Usual”

Posted on May 31, 2025 by Ed Mitchell

Fran Better’s Wonderful Dry Fly “The Usual” The first time I saw Fran Better’s wonderful dry fly -“The Usual” was in his Adirondack Sport Shop on the West Branch of the Ausable River in Wilmington. As far as dry flies … Continue reading →

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Joe Brooks’ Original Blonde Bucktail

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Ed Mitchell

Joe Brooks Original Blonde Bucktail Joe Brooks’ Blonde Bucktail is the earliest fly to gain widespread popularity in saltwater fly-fishing. By early, I mean back when saltwater fly-fishing was still in diapers – in the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and even the 80s. … Continue reading →

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Fishing A Cinder Worm Hatch? Presentation is Key

Posted on May 18, 2025 by Ed Mitchell

Fishing a Cinder Worms Hatch? Presentation is Key Several posts back, I mentioned that the cinder worm hatches here in Southern New England would be getting underway soon. Well, they’re underway. Now if you have never seen or fished a … Continue reading →

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Upperman Joe Brooks Popping Bug

Posted on May 13, 2025 by Ed Mitchell

Upperman Joe Brooks Popping Bug. The popper in the photograph below is part of the earliest series of saltwater flies ever created in our country. It was tied by Bill Upperman of Atlantic City, New Jersey to Joe Brooks’ specifications … Continue reading →

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The UFO Fly

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Ed Mitchell

The UFO Fly Recently a friend of mine, who lives on the Farmington River perhaps the best trout stream in the northeast, sent me a text message containing a blurry photo of a fly, claiming it was the best fly … Continue reading →

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