New Orleans/New Stuff/Carp

After returning from New Orleans, there are a few things that I think are worth mentioning. First, product: Cortland has a new clear fly line (replacing the PE+ Crystal we have been using on the ocean side for difficult tarpon…) and it appears to be softer and more limp than the older, stiffer version. We now have these in 8-12 weight in stock, ready to go. If you’re interested in stocking up on the old ones, I have a lot of 11 weights in stock and will gladly sell them for 50% off MSRP. Also on the clear lines front, Airflo gave me a sample of their new “Ridge Clear” line that is new. It looks pretty similar to the Airflo Ridge Taper we’ve had in the shop, and as I get a chance to fish it I’ll post how it performs here.
Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, Airflo is coming out with the first floating clear-tip fly line, which should be in production soon. I cast the prototype and it was great; I can’t wait to finally have an all floating clear-tip fly line for oceanside fishing this spring!
On to the fishing:
On the second day of the show, I had the opportunity to fish for carp with Scott Bennett from the Compleat Angler in Connecticut and Captain David Best of New Orleans. We went to the Uptown Angler, the local shop in New Orleans, and the next day we were fishing for carp in a ditch by 7:30 AM. As is always the case, Scott slayed them (he’s really quite good) and I came tight a few times but did not capture. Here are the photos of Scott and his carp:

I’d like to thank David Best for taking us fishing, and mention how great the people at Uptown Angler were to us–that place is worth going to if ever you’re in New Orleans.

Regards,

ncl/tac