Last weekend I had the opportunity to spend some time fly fishing on Toledo Bend Reservoir with Captain Steve Stubbe, affectionately known as “Capt. Scooby.” A renowned custom rod maker, fishing guide, and fly-fishing expert, Capt. Scooby is the mastermind behind Mudfish Adventures.
Alongside Paul Fuzinski from Aptitude Outdoors, who also happens to be a Texas Fish & Game columnist, we set out to create some engaging photo and video content while putting Scooby’s custom fly rods and hand-tied flies to the test. Here’s a breakdown of what I learned during our time in the field.
A Lesson in Flies: Don’t Judge by Size or Color
I’m used to fishing tiny, subtle flies for bluegill, so I was skeptical when Capt. Scooby handed me a fly with a larger profile and a bright chartreuse color. It was a Guinea Fly tied by Bruce Sublett. It stood out more than what I would typically use for targeting bluegill, especially in the typically clear waters of Toledo Bend. However, the water was a little dingy and I decided to trust the expert. To my surprise, this fly was a game-changer. Despite my initial doubts, it worked great, getting hammered even by smaller bluegill while fished on the custom fiberglass 3-eight “Purple Perch Plucker” rod.
It was a good reminder that sometimes, it’s worth stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something different. The chartreuse fly’s visibility likely triggered aggressive strikes, proving that experimenting with size and color can yield surprising results.
Dealing with Tough Conditions: Lighter Gear Makes It Fun
Fishing conditions that day were far from ideal. The water temperature had climbed to over 90 degrees, pushing most fish into deeper, cooler waters. Under such conditions, many anglers would have struggled to get bites, especially on fly gear. However, using lighter action fly rods made all the difference. Despite the challenging conditions, we could still have fun and put smiles on our faces. The lighter gear allowed us to feel every nibble and fight, making even small catches enjoyable. We found ourselves targeting the shallower areas where some fish lingered, and the lightweight rods gave us an edge in presenting our flies delicately in those shallower zones. It would have been nice if we found big numbers of giant bluegill or some hefty bass but just about everything was in deep water where the temperatures were cooler.
The light gear made our challenging experience more fun.
Capt. Scooby’s Expertise: A Blend of Knowledge and Passion
It’s one thing to fish with good gear, but fishing with someone who knows the water and its inhabitants inside out takes the experience to another level. Capt. Scooby’s deep understanding of Toledo Bend’s waters and his passion for fly fishing were evident throughout the day. He knew where the fish would likely be holding, even in the tough conditions we faced, and his guidance was invaluable. Every piece of advice, whether about where to cast, how to retrieve the fly, or which fly to use, was backed by years of experience and a genuine love for the sport.
The Takeaway: Versatility and Adaptation in Fly Fishing
Our day on Toledo Bend with Capt. Scooby was not just about catching fish; it was about learning to adapt and make the most of the situations. Using the custom rods and unique flies, we learned the importance of versatility in fly fishing. Sometimes, conditions are tough, and fish are not as cooperative as one would hope. But with the right gear, an open mind, and a willingness to adapt, you can still make the most of your time on the water.
In conclusion, if you ever find yourself on Toledo Bend Reservoir, I highly recommend spending a day with Capt. Scooby. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, you’ll walk away with new skills, a greater appreciation for the sport, and, if you’re lucky, a few great stories to tell.
Contact Capt. Scooby & Mudfish Adventures here.
Chester Moore