President's Newsletter.
For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Bill Stio. I have been fly fishing for about six years. Since I was a kid, I always enjoyed fishing, especially in the surf. My primary equipment was a light action, nine foot spinning outfit. Then a few years ago I realized that I never caught any large fish so I decided to down size my outfit and try fly fishing. So I picked up a beginners kit at a local sports store which included rod, reel, fly line and backing for about $40. Another couple of dollars got me some salt water flies. So there I was, flailing away at Crab Meadow beach and managing to catch a few snappers in the process. By pure coincidence, a nice lady by the name of Betty Anne, who happened to be scouting the place for an upcoming Salty picnic, took pity on me. She gave me a quick casting lesson, invited me to the picnic and told me about the Saltys. I joined the club and the rest, as they say, is history. I attended the meetings, most of the conclaves and many of the club trips. I even participated in the fly tying sessions and I must say, as a result my skills have improved considerably over the years. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a long way to go.
Talking about fly tying, Jose Colon has taken charge of setting up our tying sessions for the coming year. He has revamped the program so there will be something for everyone, beginner through expert. The sessions will begin January 22nd and you should have received the announcement by now. Non members may participate in the beginner classes.
The Board is planning an exciting list of guest speakers for this year’s meetings. Member and long time friend of the Saltys, David Blinken, has already kicked off the year at the January meeting.
Discount tickets (limited supply) to the Sommerset (January 26-28) show are available from Bob Skoy with free admission to members who donate a few hours at the Salty table greeting guests and prospective members.
We are in the planning stages of our Salty FlyRodders XL Conclave and Tournament. Yes, you can read that as “extra large” if you wish because that is what we are hoping for in terms of attendance and fish caught. And yes, there will be a tournament (catch and release of course) this year so sharpen your hooks and tune your rigs. Our featured guest will be David Skok noted fly fisherman, tier and caster as well as photographer and author. It will be at the Sound View Inn on June 8, 9 & 10th. Don’t miss it!
Those of you who missed this years Holiday party missed a great one. Thanks to all who participated and contributed those gourmet offerings. The Scott rod was won by Mike Friedlander and the Ross reel by Dee Kelly. Congratulations to both of you.
Many thanks for the hard work and dedication of last years board under the leadership of Patrick Long. This year we will build on their hard work. The past board members will remain with slightly different responsibilities. Mike Friedlander will join us as Membership Chairman and Paul Rudolf as Corresponding/Recording Secretary. Steve Leggett is recuperating and we anxiously await his return.
We, on the board, look forward to your comments and suggestions. The success of the club depends on all of us.
Keep ‘em tight !
Bill