I woke up this morning after an excellent night of rest. Mostly because the windows were open and a nice breeze kept me comfortable all night. I love falling asleep to the sounds of nature outside my windows. And this time of year is my absolute favorite. Maybe because I was born in Fall, or maybe because the fishing picks up again. Could be football season. Probably all of those things.

So with the morning and evening chills slowly creeping into the picture, I’ve been tying up bugs in anticipation of getting back on the water. Just starting with some basic patterns that I know are producers. Hare’s ears, pheasant tails, Micky Finns and the like.

I know I need a bunch of Woolys too, so those are probably coming up soon. I tend to stick to the classics and don’t go for all the trendy stuff out these days. I say use (and tie) what you have confidence in using on the stream. And as I tie more and more, I don’t get too hung up on specific materials. If something is on my bench or pegboard, and it can be used as a substitute, I’ll use it. Doesn’t bother me one bit.

Oh, and that’s something I haven’t posted. My new pegboard setup for materials. I mounted it above an old fireplace mantle that I picked up at an antique store back around 2000. It has been a good place to store books, and I may add a small flameless heater under it this winter to add some ambiance as I tie more bugs.

Well, hope everything is having a great summer wind-down and tying up bugs. I’ll see ya on the water this Fall. ~Drifter07