Re: [VFB] Re: presentation vs pattern- the great debate rages on...

[DMurphy832]

DonO,   In a message dated 11/1/2004 5:21:07 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: If Byard was slaying them and you weren't, what would happen if you just swapped flies with each other and fished the same?  Similar patterns fished a little bit differently? Byard always noted the trout were up against the bank but we fished different stretches.  He preferred the deep pools while I tended to fish the long flats and riffles.  Most of my fish were caught in the center third of the stream. And I've had it go my way, too, especially on the N. Platte - the exact same way. Fished the S. Platte a number of times and can attest that those fish are picky.  Big fish, little flys and light tippet.  Tough fishing. So back to the original point.  How much of success is due to the fly or to presentation? You have to have both, and the percentage depends on many factors.  My years tell me you first have to have a fly that will entice and then present it the way the fish prefers to feed by your gut.  Not much of an answer but just my observation.   Strange, but I can usually sense when and where a fish will strike and I'm no expert.  Seems like I can caste 100 times to a fish knowing he won't strike, then put on a fly I just know will work in a particular spot and pick him off in the first couple of casts.   Not much of an answer but its been part of my life that sensing and intuition is the greater strength of any sport.  Whether it was aiming a gun or choosing a fly and where to feel either would hit its mark has always been less brain and more feel.   Murf