Ross Animas Fly Reel Review

A fully-redesigned frame and spool are highlights of the new Animas. The spool shows off the cutting-edge manufacturing techniques Ross Reels has developed, delivering a design that is incredibly strong and visually stunning. The Animas also re-joins the family by incorporating an ultra-light canvas phenolic handle which gets tackier when wet. along with the new drag system that includes composite discs that are more reliable and a smaller drag nob.  A new trouble-free spool release yields zero-maintenance performance, allowing the Animas to be ready for any fresh or saltwater excursion. Ross Animas  

A Cyber Monday Fly Fishing and Shopping Gesture

Our irregular ode to Cyber Monday, and far shorter than a Haiku, is in the form of a link below to 10% off standard Gift Certificates at Backwater Angler. For those of you that are gifted in the writing arts, please send us a few lines and thanks for supporting our small shop. Backwater Angler Gift Certificate

Echo Euro Nymphing Rods

A longer rod is the keystone to Euro Nymphing.  Echo designed The Shadow X specifically for Nymphing. I acquired my Shadow X 1003-4 (10 ft, 3 weight 4 piece) early in the fall and have thoroughly enjoyed fishing with it since. At 10, 10 and a half, and 11 feet in length you can Tight-line or Euro-nymph without having to wade deep into the pools. The very sensitive tip section is ideal for staying in touch with your flies and , feeling a fish take and protecting light tippet, but have enough backbone to turn fish out of strong currents. I’ve also found it ideal …

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Patagonia Provisions Smoked Salmon and Mussels Review

Over the past year I’ve enjoyed a number of meals from Patagonia’s gourmet line of camp foods.  I particularly like their smoked products such as the salmon and smoked mussels.  Each product can be “dressed up” or simply eaten as is. The smoked mussels are a rich and savory snack perfect for throwing in your pack for a day of fishing.  I like to make chopsticks from tree branches and eat them right from the tin! https://backwaterangler.com/product/patagonia-provisions-smoked-mussels/ The salmon portions are perfect for either the trail or at home where you can enhance them with a nice salad or pasta dish. https://backwaterangler.com/product/patagonia-provisions-black-pepper-wild-pink-salmon/ No matter how …

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Filson Ridgeway Fleece Vest with Backwater Angler Logo

The Filson Ridgeway Fleece Vest with the Backwater Angler Logo is a great option for a cold winter day. We currently have Dark Navy and Bark in stock. The vest shines when layered on the cooler days but works well on its own during slightly warmer days.  The rubber zipper handles make for easy zipping and offer aid to numb fingers on a cold day. The Ridgeway Fleece vest has three pockets located above the hips and on the left chest. As Filson says, “Our Ridgeway Fleece Vest is made of a lightweight, quick-drying Polartec fleece that’s both warm and breathable for comfort in mild to …

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Chota Hybrid High-Top Boot Review

As winter 2021 drags on I can’t help but daydream of the approaching summer. When wet wading season finally rolls around I know I’ll be relying heavily on the Chota Hybrid High Top wading boot. I had the pleasure of wearing these boots on a trip to Wyoming last summer and found them invaluable.  These boots are lightweight, fast draining, and fast drying. They pair perfectly with a simple neoprene wading sock for a full day of summer hiking and fishing. They also come in at a great price point of $129.99 making them a versatile value item! https://backwaterangler.com/product/chota-hybrid-hi-top-rubber-sole-boot/