Scott Tidal Fly Rods - USA Built Under $500

Boogle Bug Bassin'

USA Built Under $500 - Article 12262016
This article series is intended to review Fly Fishing Rods and Reels under $500. The criteria for these reviews is that the actual product is tested in real world fishing conditions. They are not just wiggled in the showroom or cast in parking lot / show pond setting.

In doing some research I realized there are a few rods that demand our attention. They fit a budget, provide fish-able actions and are made in USA by top well known manufactures such as Sage, Scott and Winston. My goal is to fish a few of these rods and report what I find. In this article I will review the...

Scott Tidal 890-4

$495 (Scale Weight 4.2 oz) (Weight not published)

Handcrafted in Montrose, Colorado

While designated a saltwater stick I found these rods to have tons of soul. I call the action mod-fast. Yes I know it is listed as "Fast" on Scott's website. Now before you go and correct me let me just say I tend to rate rod actions lower then what the industry considers them. You see for me I didn't learn on rod actions that require a nap between strokes. So what the industry today calls moderate (yawn) I personally find to be painfully slow. I consider a mod-fast action rod to load rather deep and provide quite a bit of feel but still respond with quite a bit of power. I feel a mod-fast action as "wait for it" but no time for a nap!

This statement describes the Scott Tidal. I had to slow my stroke a little and "wait for it" but it recovers strong and delivers the goods with authority. I feel this rod action is ideal for situations such as winter redfishing, bass bugging and large streamers. It loads progressively deep while providing the angler with ample feedback to adjust one's stroke to match the required cast. The same action is super friendly with a short cast so often associated with winter redfishing. I would consider the Tidal to be a great rod for less experienced casters but not at all disappointing to a seasoned parking lot champion.

Deer Hair & Toothy Critters

I could cast this rod all day and never tire and I did just that on a couple of occasions this past summer while throwing bass bugs from the deck of my boat. Eight or nine hours straight of non-stop power casting and I never tired. I favored the S/A Wavelength Titan WF8F line for the Tidal. This double bump line does further slow the Tidal down but the key to the combo was the Tidal's power found down deep in the rod blank. This rod/line combo was really easy and effective for turning big wind resistant bass bugs like the frog in the picture.

Is the Tidal a 100 foot tight loop pro casting stick? No! If that's what you want/need then get the Scott Meridian. The Tidal is a rod that will let you relax, breathe and take in the scenery and don't fret over making "the cast". Just reach for it and let it happen. It probably is a stick that fits more anglers than most anglers are willing to admit.

Feather Game Changers

Finished in the natural look Scott Fly Rods has become known for the Tidal includes a cordura rod tube and Scott's lifetime warranty.

A bit about line choices

For the upcoming 2017 year you are going to see many new articles from us on this subject of line choices. No longer is it as easy as just buying the weight line that matches the rod. Most lines today are bumped in size, some as much as 2 line sizes and I even know of one line that is bumped 3 sizes. It's not all a bad thing. Modern high modulus graphite rods work over a wider grain range than ever and we as anglers further push the limits of fly size that places greater demands from rods and lines.

I'll write more about this subject in the near future but for now I challenge you to try something. If you have a few rods and line choices in similar sizes I want you to take a 7 weight line and try it on an eight weight and vice versa. Or a 5 on a 6 weight or a 6 on a 5 weight. Whatever you have to test this out with. You might be amazed at the results. You might find a new personality in your favorite rod or you may find a love with a rod you previously couldn't connect with.

Ditch the Yarn...

Aluminum Tube

When it is necessary to parking lot / yard test fly rods I use actual flies that I would be fishing with. I use old half worn out flies and cut the hooks off. Make it as true as possible to the conditions you will be using the rod for. Most times casting yarn does not provide accurate results unless you're buying a rod for dry fly work.

1.23.2017 - Correction

I had indicated that the Scott Tidal Comes in a Cordura Rod Tube. That is incorrect. It Comes in a Aluminum Tube and Cloth Rod Sock.

Wrap it up! I'll take one!

Seriously, I'm adding an 890-4 Tidal to my boat quiver as a big fly bass/pike rod this year. The Tidal is a super fun easy rod. It has a ton of soul and also exhibits a ton of crossover. It can easy be tuned with different fly lines to match anglers casting preferences and fishing conditions. It's got the great qualities all Scott Fly Rods are known for including the lifetime warranty and hand built in the USA.

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Read more of Greg's Post

Korkers Women's Wading Boots - BUCKSKIN MARY - New for 2017

Korkers BUCKSKIN MARY Wading Boot


Women anglers have long-appreciated Korkers innovative and versatile approach to wading footwear. While many women actively wear and trust Korkers boots, for others finding the right size sometimes required a compromise. Well, compromise no more - Korkers new BuckSkin Mary™ women’s wading boot is here. Now women now have a versatile, performance-packed boot that is specifically designed and styled to fit a woman’s needs.

Shown with Kling-On Rubber and Studded Kling-On Rubber Soles

Korkers new BuckSkin Mary™ boot is lightweight and athletic, yet rugged and durable. It comes in sizes 5-11 and is built on a slightly narrower last that better contours to the shape of a woman’s foot, providing better retention, fit, and supreme comfort. Women are sure to appreciate the versatility and performance traction this boot offers based on Korkers patented OmniTrax™ Interchangeable Outsole System, which allows for customized on-demand traction.

“Women have been loyal supporters of Korkers over the years, but unfortunately due to a limited size range we have not always been able to accommodate the needs of all women anglers. By expanding our sizes and engineering this boot around a woman’s foot, we have created the ultimate option for women at an affordable price,” said Korkers Director of Development Drew Linth.

The BuckSkin Mary™ will be offered in sizes 5-11 and comes standard in two different package options: Black Felt and Kling-On ($139.99 MSRP) and Kling-On and Studded Kling-On ($159.99). Women can enjoy additional traction performance soles such as AlumaTrax™ aluminum bars, Studded felt, and Studded rubber, which are offered as accessories and sold separately. The BuckSkin Mary™ will be available through fishing tackle retailers beginning December, 2016.

Media provided by Korkers

The Gorge Fly Shop Team

"Fly Fish The World With Us"

Christmas Gift Ideas: Part 2- Save a Bundle and Get a Great Gift on Closeout!

Attention last minute shoppers!!

Everyone likes to give great gifts, there is no doubt of that, but sometimes a great gift is out of your price range, especially in the world of top of line fly fishing gear.  Well, Gorge Fly Shop has your back!  We have an incredible selection of closeout items that can let you get someone an awesome gift without breaking the bank.  We made a quick selection of some of the hottest items in our closeout department.

1. Sage One rods at a killer price!  This is easily the best value you will get for a top of line rod.  Every rod in the series is an amazing fishing tool.  Get one while supplies last!

2. Lamson Litespeed reels.  Easily one of the best reels Lamson has ever made.  Save a ton and get one on closeout while you can.  Super light, great drag, and excellent finish.

3. Sage Circa rods- We are amazed that we have any of these left!  These are some of the nicest moderate action rods Sage has ever made.  Smooth as silk, but very responsive and deadly accurate!

4. Sage and Redington reels- We received a shipment of Sage 8080, 6060 & 6012 reels that will have you covered for anything you can chase with your 6wt rods and above.  The 6012s would make killer spey reels, and would certainly slay some tarpon or GTs.  The 8080s are a go to reel for saltwater species like bonefish and redfish, but double well for trout spey or smaller switch rods.  The Redington Rise II reels we have are defeintly one of the best bang for your buck deals we have on the site right now.  The 5/6 at $89.95 or the 7/8 at $99.95 are unbeatable for your hard earned money.  Try to find another fully machined, disk drag large arbor reel of this quality for under a $100.  Trust me, you won't.

5. Mega T-Shirt deals-  We have put together some t-shirt bundles that are an absolute steal!  These are seriously high quality, comfortable shirts with great style to boot.  Even if you use them as undershirts you can't pass up on these deals!  Size M  Size L Size XL

6. Sage Technical Backpack- This is one serious pack!  Fully waterproof submersible main compartment, excellent waist belt an sternum strap for suspension, and built to last!  Even if the person you are buying for doesn't fish, this would be a killer pack for anyone that ventures outdoors.

If you are looking to have items arrive before Christmas, please be aware of shipping time to your destination.  If you need guaranteed expedited shipping our last day to ship UPS 3 day select is today before 3pm PST.  The last day for UPS 2 day air to arrive in time is Dec 21st and Next Day Air is Dec 22nd.  We do also ship many orders via USPS Priority mail, which is typically fast, but not guaranteed, and the last day for Priority mail to arrive in time is Dec 21st.

Give us a call if you have any specific questions on local rivers, gear, and tactics, or shipping questions.  541.386.6977 


Ryan Van Duzor
Gorge Fly Shop | Product Specialist
541.386.6977


Read More from the "Bearded Pescador"

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Tibor Fly Reels - Custom Colors and Free Fly Lines

Is there any fly reel as timeless as a Tibor!?

Let me run down some reasons Tibor Fly Reels are so well respected among professional anglers. 100% Made in USA. Building fly reels over 40 years. Accounting for more than 850 IGFA World Records. Family Owned. Lifetime Warranty. Do you need another reason to respect these reels!

Tibor offers many different color and finish options. Besides the standard polished finish reels Tibor now offers Matte Finishes and Frost Finishes in their Tibor Light, Tibor Signature and Tibor Series Reels. I could go describing all the options but the list is so long I would lose you before I got to the point of why I did this post.

We Got Customs...

Some of these color and finish options are so good looking that we couldn't help ourselves and had to order some for inventory.

View the selection of Custom Tibor Reels In Stock at Gorge Fly Shop

Oh I almost forgot...We include a Free Fly Line with all Tibor Reel purchases

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Read more of Greg's Post

Columbia Gorge Fishing Report- (12/11/16)

Well winter has officially arrived in the Gorge!

Winter wonderland in the Gorge

We have been hit with a bunch of snow, ice and rain mixed in for good measure.  Road conditions have improved, but with colder weather on the way it could get icy out there.

Winter Steelhead are starting to move in the area, though it is still a bit early for the major push.  Coastal rivers in OR and WA typically get earlier fish after big rain events.  If you can time it right, hit those coastal rivers as they are on the drop.  The key is keeping an eye on river flows and having the flexibility to go when the conditions are right.

There are still some summer fish kicking around, and some even in good shape.  The Klickitat is now closed above the Fisher Hill Bridge for trout, salmon and steelhead.  There is a winter whitefish season, but make sure you follow the special gear restrictions for whitefish.  The John Day can produce some great action throughout the winter and an occasional fish is hooked on the Deschutes throughout the winter.

My last hurrah of summer steelhead

Trout fishing has been pretty darn good on the Deschutes.  If you can get out there on a decent day, when the wind isn't ripping and conditions are steady for a few days it can be pretty epic.  Most of the fish are being taken on nymphs.  As I mentioned in the last report, typically the name of the game this time of year is small flies.  Blue Wing Olives and midges are a good bet.   The BWO hatches tend to accelerate during rainy, cold, overcast conditions..  Check the back eddies for rising fish and nymph with small pheasant tails, hare's ears, copper johns and midge larvae. Don't just go out there dredging with heavy split and flies though.  If you aren't getting bites, try shallow nymph presentations right near the bank or riffle edges.  Move your indicator around till you find the water column the fish are feeding in.

If you do venture out in this weather, please keep an eye on road conditions and closures and most importantly drive safely and carry emergency supplies and tire chains with you.


Flows:  The USGS sites give us real-time flows, while the NOAA site shows us predictions based on weather patterns.  Both are invaluable tools.

Hood River:

USGS

NOAA

Klickitat
USGS
NOAA

Clackamas:

USGS

NOAA

Deschutes near Madras:

USGS

Deschutes at the mouth:

USGS

NOAA

Columbia River

Bonneville Dam Water Temps
Columbia @ Hood River (The mouth of the Hood backs up at 75 feet)

As always, we are happy to talk fishing anytime.  Give us a call if you have any specific questions on local rivers, gear, and tactics, or if you just want some encouragement to get out of the office.  541.386.6977




Ryan Van Duzor
Gorge Fly Shop | Product Specialist
541.386.6977


Read More from the "Bearded Pescador"

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Korkers Wading Boots - DARKHORSE - New for 2017

Korkers DARKHORSE Wading Boots

A remastered classic from the industry’s optimal traction brand, the DarkHorse™ is certainly not a one trick pony. Made for the angler that won’t compromise weight and durability for function.

Drafting off one of the brand’s most successful boots, the WhiteHorse™, the new DarkHorse™ features several design enhancements aimed at durability, fit, and comfort. The DarkHorse™ is a lightweight, fast-mover, made for the angler who is looking for just the right balance between flexibility and durability. At 9 inches in height, the DarkHorse™ offers ample ankle support. The combination of the BOA® M2 lacing system and Korkers’ proprietary 3 Ply Fit System™ lock the foot in place and provide supreme support around the ankle and heel. The DarkHorse™ offers an enhanced EVA midsole & TPU toe cap for better durability, as well as Protected Stitching™ for better longevity.

Shown with Kling-On and Studded Kling-On Rubber Soles

Last, but certainly not least, the DarkHorse™ offers our patented adaptable traction outsole system, OmniTrax®, for customized, condition-specific traction performance. The OmniTrax Interchangeable Outsole System™ has proven itself to be an indispensable feature for any angler that travels, fishes multiple water systems, or is concerned about spreading invasive species.

“We designed the DarkHorse™ boot with our core consumer in mind and made a lot of decisions based on feedback from our loyal and avid customer base. From BOA® laces to Protected Stitching™ to our wildly popular 3 Ply Fit System™, the DarkHorse™ packs them all into one incredible boot.” says Korkers Development Director Drew Linth.

The DarkHorse™ will be offered in sizes 7-15 and comes in two different package options: Black Felt and Kling-On ($179.99 MSRP) and Kling-On and Studded Kling-On ($199.99). Other industry leading performance soles such as AlumaTrax™ aluminum bars, Vibram® IdroGrip, Studded Vibram® IdroGrip, Studded felt, and Studded rubber are available from Korkers and can be purchased separately. The DarkHorse™ will be available through fishing tackle retailers beginning December, 2016.

About Korkers Since 1959, Korkers® has created functional and versatile footwear for outdoor adventurers. Unique to the industry, Korkers’ proprietary OmniTraxTM Interchangeable Sole System provides a variety of performance traction options – from felt to Vibram® IdroGrip sticky rubber – allowing anglers to maximize traction performance on any terrain and in any condition. Brian Chaney leads the Portland, Oregon-based company’s team of avid fishing and outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to developing product solutions that combine design advances with innovative technology.
Media provided by Korkers

The Gorge Fly Shop Team

"Fly Fish The World With Us"

Mega Deals - T-Shirts

We picked up on some great T-shirt deals. The T-Shirts are Sage And Redington branded. One of the reasons we jumped on this deal is because of how much we like the feel and quality of these t-shirts. They are 100% ring spun cotton and have a really nice soft feel to them. They hold up great over a long period of time. I have several that I use for everyday shirts that are 5+ years old and still going strong.

They are priced at about half off retail and we also have some bundle deals for even more savings.

See the entire selection here...