The other day I received a most pleasant gift from Robin Rhyne of McKinney, Texas. Robin creates hand woven furled leaders and he sent me one to test on the waters of Blue River. It was several days before I could assemble the leader on my fly rod but upon making my first cast I questioned myself as to why I waited those few days. With that first cast I discovered sweetness upon the waters!
Robin created this particular leader out of cotton-coated polyester. Never having used a furled leader before I had a couple of questions, and upon contacting Robin he was most willing to answer each question.
Finally on a Friday I was able to test my new gift and with my first cast I couldn't help but notice how nicely the leader turned over. On my second cast I watched as the leader gently rolled over the surface of the water. It seemed to lay out, just like a strong Plains wind waves a prairie full of Indian Paint Brushes. On my third cast I let my line drift then swing around and as I started a slow and subtle strip I noticed the slight tension I felt and I certainly noticed the change in tension for it was a beautiful Rainbow that had taken my presentation. I made up my mind then and there I would never go back to a mono leader. Actually, I think I made that decision with my very first cast with this new leader.
They say that elephant's have great memories. Well, this furled leader by Robin is far from an elephant because it had no memory at all. It is simply pure sweetness. I truly believe my new leader, courtesy of Robin Rhyne, is going to elevate my fly fishing to a new level.
Look for Robin's leaders at Scotty's Blue River One Stop soon. Also, if anyone would like to learn more about Robin's creation feel free to contact him at northtexasonthefly@attbi.com
Happy Casting
Barry Shrader
