jaybo41

Hi Amanda, That's a bummer that happened to you. As I was reading your post, I started to draw parallels to a recent experience that I had in a fly shop. Ironically enough, the shop was on the outskirts of Erie--so perhaps this is the same shop? I found a great shop in Erie that has a ton of materials and really anything else you might want. There are good people in there that I'm sure will take great care of you. I used to hit a few other shops while there, but now give them my business exclusively. Hope this helps you. http://www.shopultimateangler.com By the way, International Angler is a great shop too with very helpful workers, this is my local shop. They can be hit or miss on materials, so if there is something specific you are looking for I would highly recommend calling first before you drive. They will get you anything you want if they don't have it. As for materials that I don't need to look at, J Stockard has always treated me very well. Tight lines, jaybo

Orvis is having a sale on large arbor reels right now. You might want to check their website. Looked like some good buys to me. I've got a Mid Arbor Battenkill Barstock and absolutely LOVE it. Great real for the price, I'm more than satisfied.

Buggers in white/brown/black/olive are a must. Add some flash to it and you'll be set. BH Hare's ear, BH Pheasant Tail, Deer Hair or Elk Hair Caddis tan/brown/olive, Emerging Caddis tan/brown/olive, Caddis pupa cream/olive are all flies I've had good luck with. Orange scuds, and in the summer you'd want to be sure to have hoppers and beetles tied. I also always have a few stimulators and humpys in my box too. Right now, there is a healthy white fly hatch on Neshannock and Slippery Rock Creek. PM me if you need more info

Yep, I use Rio Grand line and have been very pleased with it. It's slick, it shoots nicely and I actually prefer the welded loop now. I was skeptical at first, but it's been wonderful. Makes it much easier to switch leader. Prior to this, I used Cortland 444 Lazerline and really liked it, but my preference is now with Rio. Good stuff.