November 14th tying - Lightning Bug

KFF monthly fly tying session
Monday, November 14, 2022
6:00pm - Tying Basics

6:30pm - Fly of the Month
Rapides Westside Library, 5416 Provine, Alexandria
Also livestreamed on Zoom and YouTube

Since we have several new tyers, we'll have a Basic Skills/New Tyer session at 6:00pm, followed by our regular tying session at 6:30pm. The new tier session will cover the loading the bobbin, securing the hook in the vise, starting thread, maintaining thread tension, basic material tie-in and finishing the fly with a half-hitch.   (Note: this session will not be livestreamed).

Then, at 6:30, we will jump into tying the colorful Lightning Bug.  This fly is also an effective fish catcher for both trout and bluegill. One look at the fly and you realize the origin of its name. The great thing about the Lightning Bug is it lends itself to endless customization.

As always, all materials other than thread will be provided, and we have several sets of tools for beginners to use during the session. The color schemes we'll use are pink or red in sizes 70 denier or 8/0. We'll have a few spools of red thread for those who don't have these colors. 

Material list:

• Hook:  #12 jig hook or standard nymph hook
• Bead:  1/8” slotted tungsten bead (jig hook) or standard bead (for nymph hook)
• Thread:  70 denier or 8/0 in your color choice.
• Tail and Legs:  Pheasant tail – natural or brown
• Body and Wingcase:  Large holographic tinsel in your color choice
• Ribbing:  Brassie size wire in your color choice
• Thorax:   Two strands of strung peacock

For Zoom participants, enter the meeting number and password sent by email. For YouTube participants, search for "Kisatchie Fly Fishers" on YT.

We look forward to sharing our final fly pattern of 2022, so do come out and join us for a fun tie!

Toledo Bend Rendezvous this weekend

A reminder that this weekend, October 28-30, marks the return of Rendezvous at North Toledo Bend State Park in Zwolle, LA.  For 33 years, one of the longest running casual gatherings of fly tiers in the country. 

Open to everyone, whether you tie flies or just enjoy watching.  The group facilities allow for overnight stays.  With only a minimal fee to cover lodging and activities. The event is open to everyone, and families are encouraged!

It’s never too late to make plans to attend.  You can read more details by going to the Rendezvous website at http://flycasting.bravesites.com/

October 24th meeting - Fly Fishing from Kayaks

KFF monthly meeting
Monday, October 24, 2022
5:30pm - casting
6:30pm - meeting
Rapides Westside Library, 5416 Provine, Alexandria
Also livestreamed on Zoom and YouTube

Would you like to learn more about fly fishing from a kayak, the different types of fishing kayaks, how to outfit your yak for fly fishing, or even strategies on how to fly fish from a yak?  If so, then join us for our October regular meeting. Three members will bring their fishing kayak to show and will talk about their setups.  The boats will include a pedal and motor-driven Hobie, a paddle sit-on-top Bonafide, and an inflatable Bote.  

Weather permitting, this will be our last casting session prior to meetings until Daylight Savings Time returns in Spring.  We'll begin 5:30pm behind the library.

For Zoom connection, email Mike or Bill for meeting number and password. For the KFF YouTube Channel, use this link and go to Live videos - http://bit.ly/3oBk106

October 10th tying - Redfish Rattle

KFF monthly fly tying session
Monday, October 10, 2022
5:30pm - casting on back lawn
6:30pm - session begins
Rapides Westside Library, 5416 Provine, Alexandria
Also livestreamed on Zoom and YouTube

For October, we have another relatively simple pattern that comes as a recommendation from our own Chris Williams, the Redfish Rattle.  While the redfish version of the fly is tied in white/tan to imitate shrimp, we will tie it in the red/white colors that Chris has found effective for warm/freshwater species such as bass, pickerel, and more.

As always, all materials other than thread will be provided, and we have several sets of tools for beginners to use during the session.

Weather permitting, we'll have casting practice from 5:30pm – 6:30pm on the lawn to the rear of the library.  If you have specific casting problems to work on or just want to get in some guided practice, there will be people there who can help.

For Zoom participants, enter the meeting number and password sent by email. For YouTube participants, search for "Kisatchie Fly Fishers" on YT.