Day 2 - Fly Fishing for Peacock Bass

February 10, 2013 

Peacock Bass of the Amazon are one the toughest freshwater fish on the planet.  They hit a fly as hard as any fish you can imagine then for at least 15 seconds the tug can be terrifying.  Seriously, a 5lber like this will rip line from you so fast it will make your head spin.  And if you let them take too much line you’re tangled in the trees.  It's not 5lbers we’re after down here in Brazil, we’re hoping for some big fish over 10lbs.  Here on the Xeurini River it’s possible to hook a fish of 20lbs!  I’m not sure that even the big sticks we throw can hold one.  

I’m using my Ross Rx 9’ for a10-weight.  I’m chucking the Scientific Anglers intermediate sink tarpon taper and a variety of flies.  Bright colored flies typically work best but we brought everything.  Yesterday I threw a big fly most of the day.  I was hoping to attract a monster but I caught everything but.  Today I downsized to 3/0 flies with a baby peacock bass look to them.  This one is tied by Brent Dawson (Warpath Fly’s).

Things started out rainy like they ended yesterday.  Rain isn’t about to stop anyone in this group and we downed breakfast before 7 and were off for a full day of peacock bass fishing.  Like yesterday, Milkfish and I fished with Antonio and right out of the gates we put a hurt on the local butterfly peacock bass population.  As our casting got more accurate and the numbers of peacocks added up, so did the rain drops.  By 11 AM we were getting soaked.  The rain was falling so hard it was near impossible to take out the camera thus I have few photos from this morning.  Nonetheless, I couldn’t miss this opportunity of Milky with this gorgeous oversized butterfly. 

As fast as the rain started it slowed and stopped.  Then the sun popped and the boat deck began to sizzle the bottoms of my feet.  I prefer to do all my “big fish” fishing bare foot because I can feel if I’m standing on the line – obviously a bad thing to be doing when a big peacock eats my fly!

At lunch a school of matrincha or similar species swarmed the shallows next to us.  These fish love to eat floating fruits and nuts of any kind so I grabbed my unrigged rod and tied straight 20lb test to the end and Clinched on a Dave’s hopper pattern.  Then, without even a reel I dapped the hopper off the ledge.  I slapped it down a few times before I hooked and landed several of these spunky little fish.   Although small he was quite a fight without a reel and my unique move must have been entertaining for Antonio.

Milkfish and I had a nice afternoon.  We racked up a bunch more peacocks and Milky landed this beautiful paca or spotted peacock.  He tore out of a snag and devoured Milky’s fly then destroyed him.  I repeat this - you can't understand how strong a peacock bass is until you experience one for yourself.  And it’s this take that puts peacocks near the top of my favorite fish list.

The fishing day ended at around 5.  The sun was out and it was in the high 80°s.  Once everyone was back we enjoyed cocktail hour in the river. Indeed the river is full of piranha but it’s a myth that they attack for no reason.  You must be bloody and struggling to get their attention.  And if that’s the case there are a number of other creatures that could get your first!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing the Amazon - Day 1

February 9, 2013

You could say things never go quite as planned when in South America.  After a fun afternoon and evening around the Tropical Hotel in Manaus, Brazil, at 11 PM last night I was awoken to a call that my hosted Amazon River trip was no longer flying to the Jufari River at 8:30 AM but rather flying to the Xeurini River at sunrise.  That being said, at 4:45 AM I was knocking on hotel doors waking up my group members earlier than they expected. There was no given reason for the last minute switch but I’m not concerned because I’ve fished the Xeurini River before and it’s no less than awesome. 

In order to get to any of River Plate Anglers remote Amazon River fishing camps you must fly in on a small seaplane.  There are strict weight restrictions and due to low water landing hazards the gear weight per person is a mere 30lbs.  If you think that’s enough than throw some big reels with lines on a scale.  Needless to say, most of us arrive with slightly more than allowed but the extra weight it generally overlooked. 

We were no different than the average group and our flight went smooth.  At 9 AM we made a safe water landing on the Xeurini.  Our fishing guides exchanged last week’s clients for us and last weeks clients climbed aboard the plane for Manaus.  We took off for camp.  Less than an hour later, these same people stumbled into camp trembling and shocked.  They should have been half way to Manaus but instead the plane made a last second bail out during take off due to overweight.  Lucky for them, they avoided a flat out crash from the sky but unfortunately still bashed up into the jungle.  Miraculously they all walked away from the damaged plane. 

The plane chaos messed up the “welcome to camp” routine yet we found our way to the water before 11 AM.  I fished with my former fly shop employee and great friend, boat mate and this week’s roommate, Mark Kuhn, better known around Jackson Hole as “Milkfish” because despite being human he has an uncanny resemblance to a milkfish.   

Our guides name is Antonio and in spite of being here three times before, I’ve never met him.  This is Milky’s first time chasing peacocks so I gladly stuck him up on the bow for the day and we went on to pummel more than 70 peacock bass, some piranha and dogfish. There are several species of peacock bass but most of todays were the small but handsomely spotted butterflies. Along with the fantastic fishing we saw Amazon River otters and a heap of pink dolphin.   

The short day was unbelievably productive for the entire group and to top it all off, Mike Dawes landed an incredible 13lb peacock!  Other than the near catastrophic plane crash the trip is off to a great start.  The only bad thing is that heavy rain started at around 4 PM and I feel like I’m getting a sore throat.  It’s not raining now but there’s threatening clouds in every direction. 

Of interest, we met a couple guides and last weeks camp manager.  They are leaving tomorrow to head for a different camp.  There names are Lou, Sebastian and Vicente.  What’s interesting is that I will be with all three of these gents again this year when I go to Bolivia for dorado in July.  The fly fishing world is a small one.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

In Brazil

First was a long foggy five hour drive from Victor, Idaho to Salt Lake City, Utah with an overnight at a hotel.  Then yesterday morning we flew from SLC to Atlanta.  From Atlanta we flew all night to Brasilia, Brazil.  We had a short layover this morning then flew three hours to Manaus, Brazil where we are relaxing for the afternoon at the Tropical Hotel located on the banks of the Rio Negro.

I’m hosting a great group of seven fly fishers.  Most of these guys are my good friends starting with Mike Dawes, owner of World Cast Anglers, Tim Brune, Mark Kuhn (Milkfish), Brent Dawson (Warpath), Nick Ozimek (Coz), Steve Eaton and Steve Fitzsimons.  We’re not there yet however.  Early tomorrow morning we catch a float plane that takes us approximately two hours north to the Jufari River camp.  The place is absolutely as remote as you can get and the fishing should be spectacular. 

I’m signing off now for a week because I’ll have no access to the world – exactly what I need after that vigorous January.  However, my cameras and computer is with me and I’ll be writing about my daily experiences.  Once out of the Amazon the day by day reports will begin to post on the blog. 

If you’re not familiar with fly fishing in the Amazon than tune into some of my past blog posts from down here.  I had the trip of my life in Marchof 2010, and although the water was high, fishing in 2011 was memorable as well.  Time to loosen the shoulder!

On Tuesday a report from our group could post through River Plate.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Amazon Time

I leave to host my annual Amazon River trip today.  This year is different in that I’m running the adventure through the well known Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Adventures of Bozeman, Montana.  Yellow Dog handles everything for me and gives the trip a much more professional presentation than I’ve had in the past.  We will also be fishing a river that I’ve never fished called the Jufari.

I’m taking seven anglers – most of them friends so the trip should be exceptional.  And for the first time in years the water levels are low.  Last time we experienced low water the fishing was no less than incredible! 

I’ll do my best to post blogs as we go.  However, I will not have any access to civilization once we are in camp.  Therefore, as always, I’ll post the day by day accounts with photos when I can.

Once back I’ll have my feelers out for 2014.  If you’ve been dreaming of fly fishing in the Amazon than contact me.  Then its back on the speaking tour again starting February 20 with my friends in California.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Great Folks in the Heart of America

What a fun weekend in the two Kansas Cities conducting a full day fly fishing seminar for the folks from Heart of America Fly Fishers.  We covered all from my favorite PowerPoint shows ranging from Yellowstone to Warmwater Fly Fishing and then fly casting and a knot class.  Things went well.  I must add that the hospitality given by the HOAFF was exceptional.  On Friday night Richard Martin and friends took me out for some fantastic country food and last night we went to the famous Jack Stack Barbeque at the Freight House in Kansas City where we stuffed ourselves and polished off several delicious IPA’s from the local Boulevard Brewery.  What a kick butt work weekend!

Always keep my services in mind when booking a speaker for your fly fishing club events.  I offer more PowerPoint options, casting seminars and even knot classes than any other fly fishing speaker out there.  I’m nearly booked up for the remainder of 2013 however you can check my  schedule or jump ahead and secure mefor 2014.  Full day seminars, two days or simply an evening of entertainment – booking me is easy.

I’m flying home at the moment with hopes to make kick off of the Super Bowl with Granny and friends.  We’ll see.  Then tomorrow and Tuesday its take a breather and pack for the Amazon.  Yes, Wednesday I leave to host my annual Amazon trip for peacock bass and other exotics.  The blog will liven up considerably!

Thanks again to all the folks who saw me this weekend in Kansas, City! 

Keep in touch!

JeffCurrier Global Fly Fishing

A Busy January Comes to an End

January 2013 will go down as my busiest ever with 17 talks starting in Denver and ending last night on my home turf right here in Teton Valley for Teton Valley Trout Unlimited.  We had a great night and I thanks all that attended. 

Tomorrow I head for Kansas City, Missouri to do a full day fly fishing seminar for the Heart of America Fly Fishers on Saturday.  I’ll be doing fly casting and knot demonstrations and my PowerPoint shows “Four Seasons of the Yellowstone Trout Bum”, “Saltwater Fly Fishing”, “Warmwater Fly Fishing” and if there’s time, “Fly Fishing in and Around Jackson Hole”.  If you live near you do not want to miss this.  Click here for details.

Lots of work and no fishing so far this year.  Don’t lose the faith.  Wednesday I leave for the Amazon and will be fishing February 9-15.  That will liven up this blog once again!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Somerset, NJ Fly Fishing Show Recap

If you’ve never visited one of the famous Fly Fishing Shows you’re missing out.  These great events take place during January and February at various locations throughout the US.  This past weekend was the biggest of all in Somerset, New Jersey.  I believe more than 10,000 fly fishers passed through the doors over three days.

At these shows you can catch presentations and seminars from many of the fly fishing pros from Dave Whitlock to Lefty Kreh.  Yes, Lefty was in Somerset giving PowerPoint talks and casting demonstrations even though he’s nearly 90!

Another great fly fisher, author, casting guru and longtime friend of mine there was Joe Humphreys.  I guided Joe in Jackson Hole in 1987 and you could say he adopted me during his visit.  I was a madman fly fisher in my 20’s and he was the same in his 60’s.  We hit it off and have stayed friends all the years.  Joe turned 84 last weekend.

I had a great weekend giving presentations on saltwater fly fishing and fly fishing for carp.  I also did sharpie fish art on more than a dozen fly boxes.  I drew everything from brown trout to striped marlin and many more - all this while visiting and yakking it up with friends.  Many folks brought their own boxes like Skyler pictured here with a largemouth bass about to eat his favorite popper.  It was awesome but no lie – I’m exhausted. 

Today it’s relax here in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire then fly back to Idaho tomorrow.  Wednesday night I speak to my local Teton Valley Trout Unlimited Chapter in Driggs.  It will be great to be home – till Friday anyhow!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Somerset, New Jersey Fly Fishing Show 2013

The busy winter continues. Today it’s off to the Somerset, NJ Fly Fishing Show. Somerset is the biggest of all Fly Fishing Shows and I expect to be insanely busy. I’ll be doing plenty of art while folks visit and giving two PowerPoint presentations throughout the weekend.

Friday

2:45 - Release Room - “Fly Fishing Saltwater – Bonefish to Billfish”

Saturday

10:30 - Catch Room - “Fly Fishing for Carp”

Be sure to come by and visit!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Never too Cold to Climb a Mountain

Despite being 4 below zero and windy this morning my brother in law Don and I couldn’t stomach to sit indoors. Instead we went for a hike. Not only did we bundle up to head for a hike, but Don suggested we summit Mt. Roberts near the famous Castle in the Clouds.

In less than two hours we completed the five mile round tripper. Unless you’ve experienced the damp cold of New Hampshire I can’t explain how brutally cold this hike began before we actually warmed up during the incline! But long story short, the hike was awesome and the views of frozen Lake Winnipesaukee were spectacular.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Another one in the Books

Great weather leads to great attendance and the Marlborough, MA Fly Fishing Show was fantastic.  Thanks to every one that came by to visit and making my presentations!

Granny and I are staying in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire this week because next weekend we have the Somerset, New Jersey Fly Fishing Show.  Today I spent the day with my nieces.  The day started with a nice hike down to the family camp where many blogs took place this summer.  The girls had a blast despite extreme cold.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Marlborough, MA Fly Fishing Show

After a very unpleasant flight across country yesterday with missed connections and lost luggage, I find myself at a familiar spot, my parent’s house in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. Familiar in that I spent much of last summer here. First by surprising my Mom for her 70th birthday when the smallmouth fishing was outstanding and then unexpectedly for three weeks in August when my Dad had brain surgery for his Parkinson’s. Which by the way, I’m glad to report Dad is doing well. We just got back from a walk around town.


Starting tomorrow you can find me at the Marlborough, MA Fly Fishing Show. I’ll be kicking back doing some artwork hanging out with all the fly tiers. Unfortunately my presentation schedule is light; however I am doing a couple of my favorites.

Friday

4:30 - Catch Room - “Fly Fishing Saltwater – Bonefish to Billfish”

Saturday

3:30 - Catch Room - “Warmwater Fly Fishing – Bass, Pike, Carp and More”.

Be sure to come by and say howdy!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

Boise Fly Fishing Expo a Success

Can you say horrible drive?  Man, my drive to Boise, Idaho for the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo was hell.  A high wind snowstorm ripped across Idaho and added three hours to my normally six hour drive Thursday.  I could hardly see for hours.  The roads were treacherous.  I saw some hellacious accidents.  It was rough.  Thankfully after driving all day I arrived in Boise at 6 PM.  I was so stressed and tired that I had a salad and one beer with my friend and show organizer Erik Moncada then retired to fellow speaker Pete Erickson’s house for the night.

The show itself was great.  Pete, Phil Rowley and I did numerous presentations throughout the weekend.  I introduced a new PowerPoint Show, “Trout Bumming the Lakes in and Around Yellowstone” that was a big hit.  I’ll be doing this many times in years to come.  And all presentations both in the theaters and on the casting ponds were well attended.

Today’s my usual Monday – unpack and repack.  It’s off to the East Coast early Wednesday morning.  This weekend is the Marlborough, MA Fly Fishing Show.  I hope to see all my New Englander friends.  Be sure and stop by my table to say hi and catch one of my presentations.  I’ll post my presentation schedule later this week. 

Before and after the show I’ll be in New Hampshire to spend some time with my parents.  It will be good to see Dad up and about for the first time since his brain surgery in August.

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

The Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo

I’m right back at it this weekend.  This time working in my home state of Idaho (although a six hour drive away!).  I’ll be at the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo in Boise.  Last year this was a phenomenal show and I expect the same this year.  If you’re coming feel free to bring your Cliff Fly Box as I’ll be taking requests to draw any fish you want while you watch.  I’ll have boxes if you need a new one.  Of course, I’ll be doing the art between my many presentations.  I’ll be doing seven in two days! 

Ask to see some fine new “Currier” coffee mugs as well including a colorful steelhead.  

Here’s my presentation schedule.

Friday

11:30   Casting Pond   “Fly Casting 101”

12:30   Main Room   “Improve Your Fishing Photography”

1:30   Casting Pond   “Tricks for Casting in Wind & the Double Haul”

3:30   Main Room   “Fly Fishing for Carp”

Saturday

11:30   Main Room   “FlyFishing Saltwater – Bonefish to Billfish”

2:30   Main Room   “Trout Bumming the Lakes of Yellowstone”

3:30   Casting Pond  “Tricks for Casting in Wind & the Double Haul”

I hope to see you there!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

One Down a Bunch to Go

A successful Denver Fly Fishing Show 2013 has come and gone.  I pulled in my driveway here in Victor, Idaho wearily at 2:30 this morning.  The last four hours of the 9 hour drive was a creeper due to wildlife on the roads.  My headlights lit up a number of pronghorn antelope, mule deer and several elk.  I had a hunch I was going to see a mountain lion but no such luck.  I don’t advise driving across Wyoming in the middle of the night but snow is on the way.  It was either dry roads through the night or snowy roads today.  I’ll take the dry roads any day.

I’m exhausted but already thinking ahead to the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo in Boise, Idaho.  This is another top show and it takes place Friday and Saturday this week.  I’ll be giving many presentations here and expect to draw on a few fly boxes as well.  I’ll post my weekend presentation schedule here on Thursday.  I hope you from the area can make it.

Thanks to all of you that made the time to visit in Denver!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing

The Denver Fly Fishing Show

I’m out the door in about five minutes to begin a nearly three month run of shows.  Friday, Saturday and Sunday you can find me at the Denver Fly Fishing Show.  For those in range I highly recommend dedicating at least a day here to catch up on new devices, some great presentations and seminars.  There’s a multiple day pass so you can see everything.  Between my own presentations you can find me mixed in with the fly tiers.  I won’t be tying but rather drawing on Cliff Fly Boxes or painting a Greenback Cutthroat.  Be sure and stop by for a visit and see if I have any of the new Greenback Cutthroat “Currier” coffee mugs left.

I’ll be doing presentations on Friday and Saturday.  Here’s my schedule in case you can make it.

Friday

11:30   Catch Room  “Fly Fishing in and Around Jackson Hole, Wyoming”

4:15  Casting Pond 2   “Fly Casting 101”

Saturday

2:15  Casting Pond 2 “Tricks for Casting in Wind & the Double Haul”

4:00  Catch Room  “Warmwater Fly Fishing – Bass, Carp, Pike and More”

I hope to see you there!

Jeff Currier Global Fly Fishing