Getting Started.
- This topic has 48 replies, 20 voices, and was last updated Jan 9, 2009 at 10:57 pm by
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Mark and Ryan,
I can thank a fly shop (The Woodsmen) and it’s employees and owners for getting me interested and getting me my first set up and a few more in the following years.
The first inquiry and conversation I had with one of the knowledgable employees was so interesting and the stories he told made me want to jump right in.
The shop was more than accomidating to new comers as well as seasoned flyfishers.
They were very helpful and did not try to get me to buy high end to start with and took me out in the parking lot and showed me the basics of casting also let me try any rod, reel or wader out. And still will. They also offered free begining tying classes and got me started there as well and incouraged you to come in with your tying gear anytime and sit down and tie.My point is there are right ways to present yourself as a fly shop and wrong ways. I understand were you are coming from Ryan and have been in shops were if you don’t look like your going to make a big purchase or better yet even get asked if you can be helped (a personal pet peeve of mine) Then you are straght up ignored and looked at like your not worth there time. Not all shops are as accomidating and better get on board with customer service or they risk losing everyting. Especcially when you consider the internet.
This goes for all service industries. Which I have worked in for the last 20 odd years and know a little about.You can’t hold a reel in your hand on the internet and go outside and cast different rods either so the Fly Shop has a very special place that would be hard to replace if not impossible. The good shops will always have buisness as long as they don’t forget the guy who is just poking around and may just be curious. If treated right he’ll be back.
Chad
This has been a great discussion and thanks for all the great input. Today picked up a Martin Mountain Brook Fly Rod Combo for $50 and gave it to the Guy that was asking about starter rods. I let him know where I got it and he is going to pick up one for his son. This is really a sweet starter setup coming with a line, leader, nipper hemostats and a small box of flies. 9′ 3 piece 5 wt. – The reel is actually pretty sweet little reel with a sort wood looking insert on the rod. Aesthetically it is a pretty setup. It cast pretty good, the line is a bit stiff (but I am getting spoiled from a sharkskin line that I received from last years photo contest) and imagine that the cost of line that I use could get two people started into fly fishing. Or one of the line I usually buy. They make a combo that is only $15 and If I find one, I’ll get it just to give it a try – Cost less than going to a movie and I can always give it to someone wanting to start into the sport.
I gave this to him as a little gift to peddle some graphics work and I guess it worked because we signed the contracts today. Plus – the main reason – I wanted to see what sort of combo it was.
Mark? What is this Zebco outfit you are talking about? I believe Martin owned by Zebco? One thing I can say – Zebco makes stuff that does the job at a reasonable price.
This might be my gift to all the non fly fishing friends I know – this could be a way to hook them into this sport.
We just had a little casting fun out in the cold with this Martin Rig.. and I have to say that I will be ordering one for each of the Golfers in my family for next Christmas – So Mark… expect an order. I am surprised that you do not see these in more places. Someone is missing the ball on marketing these things. They make a 7′ 6″ version as well.
Side note on Christmas Gifts that might not be quite appropriate but tries to get a point across. 11 month old Amelia received her first BB Gun this Christmas and it is Pink. Mama didnt know how to take it.
Kevin,
I’m hoping we can work out some kind of trade arrangement, I could use some logo work done.
MSI’ve been using 7.5 ft rods from L.L. Bean for the First Cast program (TU program for kids) and they function very well for young folks. I think they currently retail for $75.
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