Gulf Webcam

Twisted Ambience 2006

Framework

Fly pattern, photo and illustration by El Pescador

Rasta Streamer

Harmony illustration by El Pescador

HOW TO FISH

Here's a 7 minute animated masterpiece (and movie poster) that I think you'll enjoy. This classic is one of Disney’s pseudo-educational cartoons focused on the fine art of angling (including fly fishing). It's called HOW TO FISH starring Goofy and was produced by Jack Kinney. The linen-backed movie poster for HOW TO FISH is very rare and is valued at $6000 in fine condition.

Fishing In Alaska

Fishing In Alaska

The bullet whooshed by my ear,
the shooter somewhere on the hill above.

We took the warning and motored downriver
but here too we heard gunfire.

And so it continued all afternoon.
Not one cast could we make
to the beautiful silvers in the long slow pools,

for the native people were having sport with us
and nothing we could do to stop it.

Poem by Alan Harawitz Photo by Steve Stracqualursi

Tortures for Flies: Fly Fishing

Onboard

It has been a while since I invested time doing apparel posts but I'm happy to say that the task seems to have made its way back onto my plate. Last month I became an ambassador for Mountain Khakis and have been doing some field testing for this Jackson Hole based brand of "hips-down apparel". My first assignment was to put their 50+ UPF rated Granite Creek Convertible Pants through the paces.

I will start by admitting that I've never been a convertible kinda guy but the MK version is one of the best I've come across. The first thing I liked was the 6.3oz fabric. This brushed finish nylon is comfortable and quieter than the norm. It has a Scotchgard finish which really helps the fabric resist condensation build up when worn under waders as well as shedding light precipitation. These pants have zippered back and side pockets that are well located, ample without being cavernous and the rope zipper pulls make them easy to access/close. The pocket bags are made of mesh which doesn't seem to catch on my key ring in addition to allowing for good airflow/drainage. There are 10" calf zippers and color coded leg zips on this style to make the conversion to shorts easy and the 9" short inseam provides good coverage. I like the Grosgrain detail at the waist because it adds rigidity, durability and a little class. These pants have "Mud Flap" reinforced heel cuffs too.

Even with those product attributes called out, I'd have to say that my favorite feature is that the pants with all the details can still be worn daily without giving you the feeling that your wandering around in expedition clothing...though these would really shine on an adventure because of the efficiency they would provide. I've logged about 25 days in them so far. No complaints. I'll keep you posted as they age. Visit the Mountain Khakis web site for more info on this pant, the company, their products and the ambassador tribe.

Photos by Tom Maneggia

Stars and Stripes Forever

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Illustration by El Pescador

Making of The Source - New Zealand

Here's an interesting follow up to the previous post about Gin-Clear Media's film called The Source - New Zealand. This nine minute segment includes interviews with the cast and crew, behind the scenes footage and mostly unreleased bonus material. You can really get a sense of the beauty and remoteness of this special place and the unique fishery in this added content.