Chapter Meeting with Allen Rupp

Allen Rupp is back! The discussion will be on crayfish and sculpins. Dave Whitlock invited Allen to spend time with him learning how to correctly tie his flies so that he could pass that knowledge on to others after he was gone. What an honor! You will learn why Dave ties these flies. We will delve into the realm of stream-bottom fish and crustaceans, focusing on the main species that these flies imitate: darters, mad toms, sculpins, stone cats and crayfish. Insights into the characteristics and habitats of these food forms will help with your understanding of when and where the NearNuff Sculpin and Crayfish fly patterns can be most effectively fished. 

Allen Rupp brings over 30 years of fly-tying expertise, beginning with his early passion for smallmouth bass fishing on the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. Now based in New York City, Allen runs Fly On the Water, crafting expertly tied flies that have caught fish around the world. His creations have been used in far-flung locations such as Belize, the Seychelles, Canada, Mexico, the UK, and across the U.S., including Florida, Colorado, and Montana. While Allen’s experience spans a wide variety of species and environments, his recent focus has turned to saltwater fly fishing, with snook becoming a particular obsession.

Come hear Allen Rupp speak on Thursday, November 14th at the Whippany American Legion Hall, 7:30pm. All are welcome and we hope to see you there.

Fly Fisherman of the Year Contest

This weekend sees the return of the Fly Fisherman Of The Year Contest at Shannon’s Private Waters at the Raritan Inn, 528 County Rd 513, Califon, NJ. This event is in its 15th year and takes place Sunday, November 10th. 

During this event, there will be a silent auction to benefit the New Jersey State Council of Trout Unlimited. There are always some great items up for auction, so come out and spend the day with us. Watch the competition, cheer for our Chapter Service Partnership Coordinator Stu Zlotnik, and enjoy a great lunch. We encourage you to participate in the silent auction. Participating in this event is a great way to support TU and maybe win something nice for yourself. If you would like to stay for lunch, the cost is only $25.00.


Join us for the 15th Annual NJ Fly Fisherman of the Year event.
NJ Trout Unlimited chapters and several other fly organizations will be represented with contestants.
Fishing begins at 9:00 a.m.
Luncheon and then cut to the top 3 anglers for the afternoon finals.
Cider and donut reception and awards at 3:30.

Luncheon tickets are required. CLICK HERE to register

November Fly of the Month-Prince Nymph

The Prince Nymph is a classic fly pattern that has stood the test of time and is known for its effectiveness in attracting trout and other fish species. Originating in the mid-20th century, the fly was created by Doug Prince, a fly tier and angler from California. It was designed to imitate a variety of aquatic insects and has since become a staple in many anglers' fly boxes. According to Paul Schullery's "The History of Fly-Fishing in Fifty Flies," the Prince Nymph is one of the most iconic patterns, embodying the innovation and tradition of fly fishing.

The Prince Nymph is renowned for its versatility and effectiveness in various water conditions. It’s an excellent pattern for both beginners and experienced anglers because it’s relatively easy to tie and works well in different fishing scenarios. I find it works great as an attractor fly with a pheasant tail nymph or hares ear trailing behind it. This combination is effective in any season, but excels in the winter months.

Tie up 6 of any variation and bring them to the November 14 chapter meeting. There will be two raffles.