Journal

Here is what I have used so far this season and my honest opinion on it!

RODS

For fishing small and medium size rivers – Guideline NT Switch rod 11 8/9wt! This is the heavy artillery in the NT11 Switch range, designed to cope with tough waters, heavy lines, and big fish. But this while still being a suitable rod in tight conditions and mid-sized rivers, whether which is often the case during hucho fishing. Despite its significant power, you will still experience a very nice and light feeling when casting and fishing with it. If you prefer single-handed rods the Guideline LPX Coastal from 10 to 12 wt is excellent for the job.

REELS & LINES

Both Switch and single-handed rods I combine with the Guideline Vosso 9/11 reel which is an absolute Gem and I can't wait to try it on my next saltwater trip as well. I have 300 meters, 60 lbs strength of PE8 backing on each reel. The main rule I strictly follow is that the backing must be stronger than the running line, which should be stronger than the fly line or shooting head, which should be stronger than the leader. The breaking point is always on the knot we use to tie the fly. Non-slip mono knot for the streamers tied on hooks or uni knot for the ones tied on tubes. For the running line, I use the Compline II Flat Mono Shooting line in 42lbs or 50lbs strength. The fly lines I use are ULS 3D+ S3/S5/S7 18 grams for my single-handed rods or 3D+ Compact Shooting heads for a switch and double-handers. The sinking rate depends on the water level. The speed of the stream and the fly we want to use. Usually, for the baitfish streamer imitations, I use the fastest sinking line possible, and for mice, rats and other surface patterns, I use a floating shooting head. For the leader I use one and a half meters of 0,37mm to 0,435mm Egor+ Fluorocarbon. I use a double Bimini twist knot for the loop of my leader and connect it loop to loop to the shooting head.

ACCESSORIES

When it comes to Hucho fishing we all know that staying warm and dry in those cold weather conditions is of great importance. I consider the Guideline Thermo Fleece Bib an absolute must-have! The Glacier wading socks are also very warm and comfortable. All the Lofth Clothing are really keeping me warm. For the headwear, I use the Black gnat beanie and for my hands, I use the Fingerless FIR-SKIN gloves, which are incredibly light and warm. Don’t forget to remove your gloves when taking a picture with the fish, please! Another very useful accessory I always carry with me for myself or my clients is the Foldable Carbon Wading Staff. I also prefer the Experience support belt as it really protects my back. We all want to fish for many more seasons to come, don’t we? Everything else I need, like thermoses with tea & coffee, big boxes with flies, spare clothes, lunch & snacks and all the rest of it I carry in my ULBC Day pack. There is no bad weather there is just bad equipment. If we prepare properly the hard winter Hucho fishing can actually be turned into a joyful experience! It is never too easy to get the King but all the efforts are worth it when the stars align and we see our dream catch in the net. Follow your dreams, learn from the mistakes, seize the moment and never give up! It is all about the experience!