By Alex Paul
Albany Democrat-Herald | Posted: Saturday, March 8, 2008 12:00 am
Bill Marshall of Sweet Home has built seven fly rods so far this winter. But he couldn't resist buying another one Friday afternoon during the Northwest Fly Tyer and Fly Fishing Expo.
The 4-weight trout rod was just $20 and stood out among hundreds of others that cost far more at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center.
"I couldn't buy the pieces for that price," said Marshall, 54, who has been fly fishing since he was 10.
Like the more than 200 registered tyers from 12 states seated at tables filled with tying equipment and supplies, Marshall also enjoys creating his own flies. His favorite? "The one that works."
"I think most people are far too picky about their flies," Marshall said. "It's really more about how you present the fly and how you're fishing with it more than its color or size. For some guys, blaming the fly is a good excuse for not catching anything."
Marshall said he especially enjoys trout fishing in east Linn County.
"I really enjoy walking along a stream. It's great fun to see what's around the next corner," Marshall said.
The event resumes today and goes through 5 p.m.
The expo includes more than 60 classes from novice to expert. There are also displays offering everything from materials used to build flies to clothing, rods, reels and guided fishing trips.
Each of the one-hour classes costs $10, said Mary Ann Dozer, education co-chair of the Corvallis chapter of the Federation of Fly Fishers. Last year, more than 400 seats were filled by about 125 individuals who took two or three classes each.
Again today, from 2 to 4 p.m., skilled anglers will share their love of the sport with children, teaching them everything from how to cast or tie a simple fly to water safety and tying knots. Admission and classes are free for children.
The $5 per adult admission covers expenses and other proceeds are given away in the form of grants to fishing clubs to promote fly fishing, Boys and Girls Club programs and streamside restoration efforts.