Thursday, January 3, 2013

Grass Roots - A PNW Bamboo and Steelhead Gathering

A year ago my friend and fellow bamboo rod maker James Reid wandered down from the Great White North to the banks of the Skagit River to meet up with a hand full of anglers interested in casting his beautiful bamboo spey rods. Over 20 guys showed up to cast bamboo, BS about steelhead fishing, and drink some beer. The day was a total success, and sounded to me like a ton of fun.

Ever since then, James has been fired up to try it again, and has graciously invited me to help him host his growing event.

So this year, James and I would like to invite anyone interested in bamboo rods (both spey and single-hand) and classic reels, and all things steelhead fly fishing related to attend the Grass Roots Gathering. The gathering will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at the Howard Miller Steelhead Park on the Skagit River near Rockport, Washington.

On display will be a host of killer custom tackle from:
J.M. Reid Bamboo Fly Rods
Confluence Rod Company (that would be me)
Cadno Silk Lines (modern shooting head tapers made in traditional materials)
Tim Anderson Bamboo Rods
as well as others.

Howard Miller Steelhead Park is located at near the junction of state route 20 and state route 530 in Rockport. There are tent and RV sites available as well as roofed, 3 walled, 8 bunked "Adirondacks" available at the park for very reasonable costs with power outlets as well as a few cabins and a boat launch. For details/reservations please contact:

Howard Miller Steelhead Park
Park Manager: Rusty Regan

52804 Rockport Park Rd.
P.O. Box 127
Rockport, WA 98283
360-853-8808
email - hmsp@fidalgo.net

Approx. drive times to the H.M.S. Park
Seattle, WA - 1.7-2 hours
Vancouver, BC - 2-2.5 hours (plus border wait times)
Portland, OR - 4.5-5 hours