These letters were written to me by a few of my satisfied
customers. Sorry, but I just could not list them all here at this
time. I thank each one of my customers from the bottom of my heart and
hope that I can continue the wonderful friendship that we have come to
share, in this wonderful sport of ours called FLY FISHING!.
- Andy
Andy, I had a great time on the San Juan last weekend the yountube video was awesome. It"s great to get to show my dad what he missed by not coming on the trip this year. Maybe I'll get to bring him later on in the year. Keep up the good work! Tyler Phillips
Hi Brother Andy, I just got home and I have viewed the pictures you sent by e-mail. A great job-Thank you so much. Andy, I'm so sorry that I forgot to give you a tip for your excellent service. How is the best way for me to send some money to you? Thank you, Pastor Mel Sumrall
Andy, Thanks for fishing with us last Tuesday, was fun. Tom
Hi Andy, I went to Beavers Bend Oklahoma to fish last weekend and I caught 110 fish in 21/2 day. It was awesome!! I used size 22 Yong Midge pattern all weekend long with different colors. At the beginning I could not land the fish but with little practice I started to landed them easily. I even landed a couple of 16 inches (my biggest fish so far) Thank you for all of your advice.... Also, could you recommend me a reel for 3wt rod (not an expensive but a good one)? Thank you, Atlihan Binoz
Hi Andy, Thank you so much for sending the pics! You have been a great friend and I'm proud to say I've known you for 20 years. I really appreciate all the fishing tips and fly selections over the years. Actually catching fish is a lot more fun than just "fishing" for them. It feels pretty cool to be catching more fish than the other guys fishing in the same water I am. I'm glad the referral worked out for you. Brian and Rocky were some nice guys and they really wanted to learn to master the Juan. Thanks for taking care of them. Next time I come up, I would love to be your camera man for your guide trips. Believe it or not, I am pretty good with a camera and it would free you up to actually be in the pics/videos with your customers and their trophy fish. You could be the only guide on the river that could send your customers full length videos of their experience. Hmmmm. In between shots, I could be fishing quietly near by and, by listening to you teach your customers, I could be learning more about the world famous AK fly fishing system. Craig
Thanks for coming to the Almont Resort. Great website. Thanks Harold Seiff The Almont Resort www.almontresort.com (970)641-4009
AK, Nice photos and video, thanks for the great day. Not too often that you will get all 3 of us together to fish. In the meantime, take care and good fishing. Tom Barber
Andy, You probably don't remember me, but I spent a great day with you on the San Juan a few years back. My wife and I will be in Telluride in early July and would like to fish with you. What days would be available the week of July 12. We'd drive down for a half day session. I'll call you next week After Easter. Looking forward to seeing you again. What great fish you put me on!! Thanks, Tom Birdwell, MD, Pensacola Fl
Hi Andy, Thank you again for two great days on the San Juan. Having you instruct Nate and David on their very first ever experience fly fishing was truly memorable. The fact that they had never held or cast with a fly rod before, but were able to start catching trout immediately, was a real eye opener for them. Both commented that they were literally surrounded by more experienced anglers, "but we were the ones catching the most fish!" Having personally had the same experience, as you continue to teach me, is an example that the correct flies makes a HUGE difference. When Nate caught his large rainbow,there was an angler looking on, who had just stepped out of the river, who had just finished fishing in about the same area. When he heard this was Nathan and David's first day fly fishing ever, he said, "It took me seven years fly fishing before I caught a fish that big." Another interesting experience was early on, when my "boys" (adult men with seven young children between them) started catching fish within 15 minutes of stepping into Kiddy Hole. There were others fishing near by who weren't catching. When you were going back and forth between your two novices to land their more than ten double hookups in short succession, I went back to my truck to get another net. Fortunately, we were only 100 yards from the parking area and it was before 9:30 AM. When I got back to the truck, there was a fellow rigging up his rod who looked up and asked, "Are you done for the day?" I said, "No, my first time fly fishing sons are catching so many fish, we need more landing nets!" I am sure he thought I was in my "fish story liar" mode and was saying to himself, "RIGHT"! Later that afternoon, I recognized him fishing near us, when we were still doing most of the catching by a magnitude of five or six to one and we smiled broadly at each other. The experience for me was one of forced independence and self reliance when you were helping your truly novice clients. My sight fishing nymphing and expecially my dry fly success were frankly surprising. I guess it is like learning to ride a bike, Eventually the training wheels come off and you discover that you dad isn't still running along side holding you up by the back of the seat. And thanks for making us famous by adding our trip to your YouTube video clips. I'll see you in July when I bring my entomologist son, Matt Terry, to fish with you. He has been fly fishing before, but hopefully hasn't developed too many bad habits for you to break. Bill, Nathan and David Woolf Mesa and Gilbert Arizona
Andy Fishing was good. Very good dry fly on the Roaring Fork. Just got back today, I-70 was closed for last several days due to rock slide. Fished Sunday on the Frying Pan with nymphs. Fished a couple days on the RF with some dry flies. Midges were coming off from about 11:00 to 2:00, fished Andy's Candy midge size 22 and 24. Had a great time while they were hatching. They would take when I got good drift. Nothing like AC midge. Most of the fish on the RF were browns, about 12 to 14 inches. Fun! John was there on Sunday and Richard came over for a couple of days. How's work? I'm sure SJ is fishing excellent for you. Talk with you later. Tom
Shirt came in today, beautiful shirt, great color and nice needle work. I'll wear it with pride! It is a little big but not that bad, sleeves are perfect. I'd rather have it to big than to small. Thanks again for including me, keep on rockin. mike k. from denver
Can you please send me the photos you took of Jay and I fishing last week. The You Tube is great! Thanks for the experience. Dave
Hi Andy, Once again it was a pleasure meeting you and fishing with you (i.e. learning all the proper things about fly fishing). It took me 11 hours to get home. I took I-40 thru Flagstaff rather than go thru show Lo. I was too tired to drive through the mountains. I appreciate you emailing me any photos you took. I will be in touch sometime in two weeks to firm up our plans. Cheers, Saad Zara
Hello Mr. Kim! Wow! Thank-you for the in-depth reply! I didn't mean to cause you so much typing, but I am happy that you chose to do so! Not sure where I found your recipe, but you can bet I'm on a search for that Fly Fisherman issue from 10 years back! I hope to see more photos of your creations and maybe learn what colors and body shapes would work best on My East Tennessee Rivers. Thanks again and if I tie Yong Special that I am *extra* proud of I will send you a photo of it for "grading" All the best and we hope to see you again next year. best!! Daniel Leinart Freeman
Hey Andy, It has been years since my father, George, and I fished with you on the SJ. I hope all is well with you! I saw some years ago that you finally gave up the secret recipe for the YS fly in Fly Fisherman magazine. That fly is the best fly ever for imitating midge pupa. I have used it exclusively on many of the tailwaters here in CA and it out produces everything else. Anyway, it is no surprise to you I am sure. Well, I am happy to tell you that I left my corporate life about 10 years ago and got into the fly fishing industry. My first entry into the industry was as a guide. I built a very successful guide service on the Northern CA rivers (Yuba, American, Feather, Stanislaus, and Mokelumne Rivers) guiding about 200 days a year. Then, about 5 years ago I began my fly fishing travel business and have been booking clients all over the world for fishing adventures. My days fishing with you inspired my interest in this great sport and now I am happy to call it my profession. It has been about a decade now in this industry and I can say that I am happy than ever pursuing my passion. Also, I am married and have our first baby on the way (due in May). Anyway, I just wanted to say HI to you and wish you well.My father and I still talk about our great days of fishing with you. We plan to make a return visit sometime in the next year and will give you a call to book a few days on the SJ. Well, take care and good fishing to you! Keith Keith Kaneko Angling On The Fly
Dear Andrew, I've written this recommendation of your work to share with other LinkedIn users. Details of the Recommendation: "I found Andy through an article in one of the flyfishing publications and hired him for a day at Navajo Dam on the San Juan. Let's just say it was a fishing life altering experience. I have never since experienced a guide that could put you on fish and after fish, catch fish with the precision of a sniper and teach you how to do it on your own. I have sent a number of friends traveling in the area to Andy with the same results. Get in shape before you go it'll be a day you won't want to stop and you won't forget - I haven't and it's probably 10+ years since we first meet. What a character too!" Service Category: Doctor Year first hired: 1997 Top Qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert Craig Mckay
Hi Andy, Bonnie and I wanted to thank you for another great trip! Bonnie and I both caught fish by seeing them take the fly this past week. Thanks again for all the great lessons and super flies. The improved yong special and improved young flasher where the ticket! Bonnie wants me to add she really feels like she made a big leap in her fishing skills with everything you taught her last Monday. Fishing with you is the really makes a great trip on the San Juan. Thanks again, Fred and Bonnie
Hi Andy, Here is Jay the golf pro who lives in Germany. How's your game? I will be at the river the 4th of November. I will have my girlfriend with me and she has never fished ever. I would be honored if you could teach her. You are by far the best guide in the history of fly fishing. We could also play some golf and I could give you a bit of help along the way. How are things looking at this time of year? Let me know if you have time and interest.. Talk to you soon All the best Jay
Hi Andy, Thanks for another great day. I appreciate the time that we spent with you. Thanks for working with Dan on his nymphing technique. Could I ask you to forward me the picture of me sitting on the bank holding the big fish I caught on a dry fly? All the best and we hope to see you again next year. David
Hey Andy, This was my third, or fourth time with you, and it was probably the best. I really appreciate you showing my brother, and nephew the ropes.I knew if I got them with you, the trip would be great, and it was. My nephew had only caught a couple of troutin his life, and has fished the Juan without any luck about 20 times, my brother had never caught one, or even handled a fly rod, and came from Georgia to go with me. They both were catching fish within 15 minutes, and both said it was a trip of a lifetime. The look on their faces, and the stories they told, are worth everything to me. We hooked or caught probably 50 fish the first day, and the 20+ incher he caught is still being talked about, and to top it off, my brother and I caught, or hooked about the same the second day without you, while nobody around us was catching anything both days. It just goes to show that I'am learning, even if you think I am hard headed. It is all in the great flies you tie, and the presentation you taught us. I will be in touch with you again, as soon as I can get my wife, and daughter up there. Thanks for being a great teacher with patience, and thanks for being a professional in every sense of the word. See ya soon Lee Christmas
Andy We had a lot of fun and thanks for the teaching. The next morning wasn't as good but, oh well. What do I owe you for the flies and where should I send the check. Look forward to a seminar soon, when is a good time? Tim
Hi Andy Thanks for helping me with my fly fishing on the San Juan on Thursday. It was an enjoyable day. Thanks again. Dan Steinman (Chicago)
Hi Andy Good to see you and thanks for your help in trying to teach us to fish. I might try to come out in March or April. Hope to see you when you come to LA. Thanks Again, Brian
Andy Thanks for the great photos and the very helpful fishing session with you. I did not have the same success after you left but over the next few days but I caught several very nice trout. I particularly enjoyed fishing the Middle Flats and some of the other areas that I did not know existed. Tom
Andy Claire and I would like to thank you again for a great day of fishing. We fished on Friday by ourselves and it wasn't as productive. We expected that. We did catch fish just not as many. I caught the biggest on the dry fly. Thanks Paul and Claire
Andy went up to the blue, i haven't really fished it, caught a small one on a blood up by bridge. water was really low, i found a nice little hole in back of 7-11, i put the same ak-47 on i used at yampa [ size 18 ] i saw like 7 dif fish rise, i casted to each one, everyone came after it. i must be doing something right . i landed only one. i missed them all. once i learn to hook them i would have caught 7 fish in 30 mins. same as Yampa.......my timing is late..ill figure it out!!! you told me once, thats the main fly you use in summer time... now i know why ... AK-47 rules !!!!!!!!! mike k. from denver
Hi Andy We just got back from our fishing trip. Spent some quality time in solitude catching nice brown trout on dries at the Conejo River. The day after we saw you, we went back to the same spot at Upper Flats. I caught 8 nice ones in the s l o w water on Yong Specials...caught onto the subtle takes without the indicator going down..just stopping slightly. We enjoyed having dinner with you. Let us know when you come to L.A. Best fishes, Russ
Andy Thanks again for a fabulous day on the San Juan. Jeff and Chris had a great time, learned how to cast and fish to the trout upstream and downstream and most important came to like fly fishing more than any other type they've experienced. You'll also be happy to know that your students fished all day Friday and then we put in 5 hours on the water on Saturday before returning home. JEFF, out caught Chris and I both Friday and Saturday! On Saturday, Jeff hooked into a huge fish in the upper flat section we fished with you (near the big rock) and We had to walk downstream 100 yards and then across stream as it took out the backing down to about 10 turns of line left on the reel. He eventually lost him after 10 minutes but what a fish and fight. Had to be over 24 inches. As we saw it jump and it was one of the San Juan bulls. He wasn't yawning much after that one! Jeff did land the biggest fish Friday, 20" and then two nice 18 and 19 inch fish on Saturday. The best thing was on Saturday in the upper section, both Jeff and Chris were casting beautifully. I'll be fishing the river again Sept 16-20 with my buddy so I hope to see you there! Attached are some photos of Jeff's success on Fri/Sat. In a second email I'll send you a video of his big one that got away (some of the fight). Best Regards, Steve Setian
Hi Andy I was looking over the pictures and video and I keep on smiling - thank you so much my friend. priceless is all that I can say. thank you Mon
Hi Andy, Thanks for the good time the last few days. Tom
Andy, Just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our fishing trip. We just made it home and were looking at the photos you took of our days on the river. They are very well composed and are great reminders of the great time we had with you as our guide on the San Juan. It was a trip we will remember for a lifetime and the photos will help others see what we experienced (and prove that we caught big fish). We fished Tuesday morning and started out slow but as the day passed, we started hooking fish and ended up landing several good fish. No giants mind you, just good healthy 15-17 inch fish. Kenneth hooked a larger fish on an AK 47 and fought him the length of the kiddy pool; he eventually came off but after a good long fight. I hooked several fish initially, but eventually I begin to land them (no cussing). Thanks again for your guidance, your teaching and your professionalism. Sonja and Kenneth Hickingbottom
Hi Andy, How are things going? I hope this email finds you in great health. Thanks again, I really had a great time fishing the San Juan, and I can't wait to do it all again. We have a lot of nice pictures that we will enjoy, and share with our family in the years to come. Hope to see you soon. Take care, Rebecca
Hey Andy, I had the most amazing time up there learning the ins and outs of the San Juan. I have heard many stories of about "how good of a guide you are", from Marcus. Now that trip has filled my photo album with new and exciting memories. Thank you for also showing me how to fish with dry flies, I still have much to learn and look forward to more instruction from you in trips soon to come. It's all about the "ANDY CANDY"! Take care and God Bless Andrew
Andy my friend! How are you up there? Busy I bet. Andy, allow me to extend my most sincere thanks and appreciation for teaching me out on the river. It was my very first time on the San Juan as well as my first time fly fishing. Believe me, it is a blessing to have had those two experiences, not to mention a phenomenal guide, to foster one of the most cherishable memories I have ever had in the great outdoors. I am certain we will see each other again because I am "hooked" just like the one I caught with your help. Be safe and take care out there. Thanks again, Andy! Remember...... stay still, you're making a buffet for the fish! (Laughing out loud) Till next time, Joel
Hi Andy I wanted to let you know that Bill and I thoroughly enjoy having you as our expert fishing guide and friend. You definitely know what you are doing. Your photos are great, too. I will recommend you to my friends and maybe my son, Ramsey, captain of the Sea Quest. Hope that we get to see you and fish again before we leave. Did you get your wader repaired. Sorry! You said that it was a size small. Was that a man's or ladies wader? It fit smaller than the one I tried, same brand, at Sports Authority. Thanks again! Ruth
Just wanted to thank u again for the flies. On Sunday just above the lower flats I pulled out a 26" rainbow. Eric couldn't believe it. This was on the young flash. I was fishing in a deep section. Than on the lower flat caught about ten more all on the young flash. Only fished Sunday till 12:00. I did pull out a couple over 22. Most of the fish I caught I saw feeding and cast right above them. I just knew they would take your flies. There were three times I told Eric, I'm gonna catch that fish there. I would cast by them and they were on. I've never called out fish before. I'll be back up there in 2 weeks to hit the lower flats again. Take care. Neal
Andy, Good to see you. Had a great time. Hopefully I will retain some of the lessons learned. Did pretty good nymphing in the morning and early afternoon but didn't do so well with the dries. Hope to see you later this year, Thanks. Brian
Great we had a great time also we laughed so hard after u left and driving home. Hey I would like to pay your air fare to come down and play golf let's look at October Nov when it is cooler let me know what works. Scott
Andy, Went to New Castle for a couple days, last Sunday and Monday. Fished the Fryingpan a couple days. Caught about 20 to 25 fish each day, mostly on dry fly. Fished Andy's Candy mayfly. Was great from about 1 to 4. Nothing big but had a lot of fun. Mostly 12 to 14 inches. Later. Tom
Hi, We had a great time with you last Wednesday. We enjoyed the fishing, instruction and your personality very much. If you can get down this way, we would have a good time playing a couple of good golf courses. Best regards, Randy Peeples :)
Hi Andy I appreciate the instructions given last week on my role casting and drifting. I believe I expanded my knowledge and experienced much improvement Monday. Tuesday afternoon for me was exceptional with both AC Midge and AC nymphing techniques while revisiting the Texas Hole. Thanks much Andy. John
Andy I see the great pictures of us on the website. I'm watching youtube for more videos, too. Had a great time fishing with your Sage rod. Tell me some more about it. I think it was a "line wt 0" Is the reel I used equipped with 1 or 0 wt line? Arrived home Sunday with all our junk. The flight out of Durango was nice. Yours, John
Hi, We have returned home to CB and its downright miserable. We have sent those fishing pictures out nationwide and surely you will be getting calls soon. Thanks again for a great afternoon. Teri
Hi Andy, just wanted to tell you that on the 2nd day (friday 4/10/09) mike and chris had some really good hook ups and we had a great time. When they went off the river to make lunch, i stayed for a few minutes and caught a rainbow that was much larger than my one on the first day....Woo Hoo...but no one to take a picture...but i'll always remember it....We're busy planning two more trips (summer and fall)...talk to you soon, and thanks for a GREAT trip........dan dee
Andy Good to see you on the river today. I had a great fish today. I just watched two recent You Tube videos of your clients, very good! YS black and YF black, no other flies today for me. On a side note, thanks for all the help you given me on fly tying. I moved here 4+ years ago and while I did OK, I did not catch trout with the consistency that I do since I began tying your patterns. Thanks again, David
Andy Thanks for going fishing with me, I had a good time. Thanks again Stan,, Peace!
Andy We had a great time this past weekend. I think that my dad enjoyed that trip more than any other. Hope to be back out this summer with wife and son. Talk to you soon. Phillip G
Thanks for the pics, Zach can't stop talking about the big fish. Tom
Thanks for the pix, Andy, and for all the valuable instruction. The rest of our trip went well. Hope to fish with you another time. Richard
Thank You, again, for a great experience on the Juan. You are The Best! I continue to learn from you, albeit, a bit slower than you would like. I felt like I made decent progress on our "Sight Fishing" exercise from when I started, to when we walked off the river. Thanks for your patience and coaching. I really appreciated your positive encouragement for me perfectly nailing (setting) 5 trout on the nose (with 4 in a row)! That's just good Andy Kim Teaching and Coaching!!! I look forward to receiving your photos. As discussed, I'll work on getting Dave and me getting back this summer. Please be Safe and be Well! Respectfully with God's Blessing, Your Pal................ Jay Elliott
Dear Andy: Thanks so much again for an outstanding day on the San Juan. I learned a lot and caught some wonderful fish. Jonathan and Lauren
Hi Andy, Thanks so much again for an outstanding day on the San Juan. I learned a lot and caught some wonderful fish. I have always been impressed by people, in all industries, that are truly exceptional at what they do. Andy, you definitely fall into the exceptional category. I look forward to fishing with you again in 2009 in September. Dates to follow from me and/or mike. Andy, please send along the pictures of the wonderful that I caught with you, particularly the 23.5 inch bow on the dry. I have some bragging to do and need those photos for my big fish album. Thanks again and I look forward to seeing you again and fishing with you in 2009. Also, Im working on wife options for you as we discussed. Al the best, David P. Shatto (Dave)
Andy, Thanks once again for a great time on the San Juan this last Monday. My family really enjoyed the fly-fishing experience. Now they've learned a new outdoor skill that they can put to use for the rest of their lives..with practice of course. Enjoy the rest of your summer. With any luck, maybe I'll see you again on the river this year. Warm regards, Marshall
Hi Andy, Hope you are well. Jad and I enjoyed our weekend on the San Juan. It was a pleasure meeting you. Hope to see you soon. Best, Marc M. Rose
Well your name is every where. We went to Montana and came back through Yellowstone. I fished the Gros Venture in Teton National Park. Afterwards a guy drove up and said the Moose should be coming out. We started talking fishing and I asked him if he had fished the San Juan, he said no, but he did have a video from a guy from their and I said really, he said his name was Andy Kim. I said this is my buddy and he can catch fish just like the video. How's the fishing, need to make up there. Scott
Dear Andy, Thank you, Thank you for the best flyfishing trip of my life. We had so much fun and I learned a lot from you in just a short time. I am very fortunate to have spent time with you on the river and am inspired to practice more. Andy, you are the greatest! Happy Fishing and Best regards, Johnny from Denver
Andy, Caught several nice fish on Wednesday and Thursday, including a 20-incher on a dry fly on my last cast on Thursday. Couldn't have done it without your expert advice. I'm looking forward to seeing the photos you took. Enjoyed fishing with you. The San Juan is amazing. Tom
Dear Andy: Thank you very, very much for taking the boys fly fishing. It was truly the highlight of their trip. We can not thank you enough for your generosity. It was a pleasure to meet you! Jonathan and Lauren
Hi Andy, I want to thank you for a wonderful experience that day. We had a blast. My son and I really like you and we are looking forward to our next day on the river with you. Thanks, Ken
Hi Andy, Thanks for the photos and I am glad you are feeling better. I did catch a couple fish on your dry fly. Regards, Mike
Hi Andy, I am so glad I met your guide Jerry and he was able to introduce me to you. I have fished the San Juan 6 times and have had ok fishing and got skunked a couple times. The flies I bought from you and the advice you gave me was just the ticket. The next two days I caught more fish per day that I have could possibly have imagined. I had 2 guides around me and I caught more fish than their clients with your flies. You know the river so well and I will always contact you to buy flies before I go to the San Juan. I have a friend that wants to be guided and you will be the one I will contact for him. Thank you, Alan Aragon
Mr. Kim, Thank you for all your help and teaching me to fly fish. Sincerely, Ryan Ulrich
Hi Andy, Do you have any photos to share? It was a great trip, thanks. Cheers, Chuck
Hi Andy, Hope you are well. Dad and I enjoyed our weekend on the San Juan. It was a pleasure meeting you. Hope to see you soon. Best, Marc M. Rose
Dear Andy: Thank you again. Rebecca had a great time and improved her fishing skills. You keep getting better and better at your abilities to catch fish and teach clients what they need to know to follow in your footsteps. We had a great weekend and look forward to seeing you the next time you are up here or we can make it down there. Please send the fiber material to the address below. Best regards, Marc C. Patoile
Hi Andy, You don't know me and hopefully, some day, I will get the chance to meet you and have you guide me on the San Juan. I just want to take a minute and thank you for sharing your midge patterns using the C and C thread and twisting techniques on both your larvae and pupae patterns. I'm from SW Pennsylvania and fish mostly on a couple streams that are know for some very large, picky and well educated trout that get lots of fishing pressure. Using your larvae and pupae designs, I have guys following me around trying to figure out the secret on my success. I hand out a lot of flies and try to help them with the techniques, but few have the success that I do, especially in landing a good many nice size browns and rainbows. What made me write this note was that I gave some flies to a guy a few weeks ago, and he replied, those are Andy Kim's flies. As it turned out, you guided him a couple years ago and he could not say enough about you. Just wanted to pass that on. Can't recall his name, but he said the next time you guide for him, he will tell you about the guy from Pa he ran into that "cleans up" using your flies. Take care, good luck and wish you many happy days of fishing, Hugh Shearer
Andy, I received the video yesterday and popped it into the VCR immediately. It was fun to watch, you definitely catch a lot of fish. It really got me pumped up to go to the San Juan, and hopefully we can be as successful as you were on the video, it would be nice to catch some better quality fish!!! Thanks, Kirk Colburn
Andy, I was able to receive but not send emails in Durango. Thanks for a great time on the San Juan. I learned a lot and now I have to break several bad habits that I should not even have and practice casting. I look forward to receiving the video. I asked my wife what she wanted to do today, in that I had been fishing twice with you this week and she said, "can we just go home a day early?" She had been in Utah with our daughter who just had a baby a few weeks ago last week so had been gone for two weeks. We came home today and found everything in good order. As I was unpacking my fishing gear, I am already thinking of when I can get back up you way. Thanks again for the good and patient instruction. Bill Woolf
Dave and I had a blast! bob barrali
Hi We were watching you fish the other day on the San Juan River. My wife was saying it was better than the Movies. We were very impressed. We would like a copy of your tape if it will show how to roll cast? I would like to get the right tackle before we come back to go fishing next time? Hopefully this summer. About the Roll Casting you were doing, were you using a W.F. floating line, or a D.T. floating line? What line weight, and Brand should I buy? Do you like the easy loop-type line/leader connection, or a nail knot? I have a 5-6 line weight Fennwick 81/2 ft. rod. Will this roll cast OK? Or what Rod should I get and how long? How long should my Tippets be and what strength is best for the San Juan? When you use a Strike Indicator what is best for roll casting? What size fly fishing shot should I use, and how far in front of my fly should it be? Should I use 2 Fly's or 1? And how far apart should they be? When We plan a trip we will get back in touch with you and book a guided fishing day with you on the San Juan. Thanks Marty Smith
Hi Andy, Dad and Jerry had a great time with you on the San Juan. Glad you all were able to fellowship. I wanted to share this short video with you. This is what enabled dad to "keep going" on the trip. Truly amazing. He would usually only be able to do 1/2 day on the river at a shot. Looking forward to talking to you. I still have your set-up. Will mail it to you! Blessings, Susan Sumrall
Hey Bobby Knight, er Andy, Best regards, John
Andy, Just looked at video, not bad for me. In New Castle till tomorrow or Wednesday. Fished the CO on Saturday, caught about 10 fish most on ywings. Fished the Roaring Fork on Sunday caught about 8 on ywing and yspecial. Went to FP today, caught about 30 fish some on ywings but mostly on dry flies. From about 2 to 6 they were just hammering andy's candy mayfly. Had a lot of fun. Talk with you later. Tom
Thanks Andy. Photos are great. I hope you can put up with me again. I'll try to practice. I have a meeting to attend now but I'll send links to my videos later. Once again, thank you. Gary
Andy, Just a reminder to send us the photos from the trip. As usual, we had a great time. Caught a couple of nice fish on Tuesday morning. One 20" below Texas hole and about a 19" in the 2nd channel behind Kiddie Hole on a AC Midge. Thanks, Steve
Andy Just to thank you for the GREATEST day of fishing because of the opportunity to fish with my son and grandson. Also I have reconfigured all my reels to left hand retrieve. Have been going over to the lake to train those muscles to the new system. Takes a lot of work for and old man to change old habits. Had just as much fun visiting and listening to your stories. Hope to be back next summer (late) or fall. Pic included to reminder you who "grandpa" is Lowell Jenny
Hi Andy, Thank you so much for my picture! I hope to see you soon and learn more from you... let me know your guiding schedule and locations. Thank you. with gratitude and appreciation, Pauline
I have been catching lots of big trout up to 24 inches from Baetis Bend to Lunker Alley and lots of people asked about what flies I was using. Thanks for the flies, CoCo
sorry i was at the pump house (i was having lots of fun with yong wing) run in the bait waters caught lots of fish on yong wing I didn't keep any though. I'll mail you the $20 for the yong wings thank you for bringing them and thank you for the fun trip again. Maybe next May, I am not sure right now, I'll get hold of you to do it a third time and I hope more times than that bye. Thank you Andy, Adam
Andy, Had a great time on the San Juan with you. You are an excellent teacher and it was easy to see the change in my fly fishing technique in as little as a few hours. I'm heading out to the Adirondack's on Saturday and was hoping to purchase some flies from you. Pretty much whatever you think would work. Hopefully, you could send it out express mail - I will send out a check to you, plus some extra that I didn't have with me on Friday. I am likely leaving Friday afternoon. Hope all is well. Also, have some ideas regarding the book. Look forward to talking with you. Karim Botros
Andy, Yes, I had a great time. definitely my best trout experience ever. The next day in the evening at Texas Hole, I hooked one that took off for the far side of the river, never slowed, never looked back. I couldn't gain anything on him and he ran out all my line and backing when he got close to the other shore. Wish I could have landed that one. I did catch a 19 inch colorful rainbow that evening also. I hope to come again with a friend or my son. Thanks for the pics and the time! Charlie Bing GraceLife
Andy, Thanks for the fun the last few days and showing me high sticking and fishing with no strike indicator. Can work on those over on the Roaring Fork and take a day trip to Salida. Tom
Andy, My wife was talking with one of her patients today, and he was telling her about his vacations this summer. When he mentioned flyfishing in New Mexico she said, "Where?" He said "The Navajo Dam area" and she said, "Oh my gosh! I wish I knew you were going there because I would have hooked you up with the best guide, Andy Kim!" She said his eyes got big and he said, "How do you know Andy? I actually did meet up with him for dinner" and she said, "Where? At the Chinese restaurant?" He laughed and said, "How did you know?!" Pretty funny, huh? Anyway, his name was Calvin Iona and my wife has known him for 20+ years. Small world... Big Net
Hi Andy- my buddy Dean and I fished with you and Camoman 10 years ago this week, flying back to Columbus two days before the world changed. Glad to see you are still going strong. Were talking about coming back out. I'll stay in touch. Greg
Thanks Andy! They had a great time. Next time it will be just you and me. I want to get my AK Bachelors degree Gene W
Thank you Andy for today. Ryan really did enjoy himself, I think we may have a new convert to the sport and I think even he is surprised. Thanks for getting both he and my dad on the fish, as I knew you would, now it should be easier for me to get them to come back to the San Juan in the future. We will be sure to look you up again! We're all looking forward to the pictures, I really appreciate it and thank you so much again for a fun day on the river! Mike Jenny
We had an awesome day, could you send me some pictures you took? Thanks, Tim Reddin
Thanks, Andy. Got the photos and posted to Facebook. I will add something to your site later today. Ann T. Gallant
Hi Andy, I got the pictures you sent. I will send you up a couple from my camera that you may want for your website. We had a great time with you and all learned a lot. Look forward to getting back out there with you in the early fall. Talk to you soon! Carlos
Andy: Thanks for the phones and music. I'm listening to the album right now. The photos came out good! Appreciate both. Was up at Cable Hole today and did very on the AK47 and Griffins Gnat. The midging was slower so we stayed with surface bugs. The trout were not sipping like they were yesterday. Look forward to more of the same tomorrow. Are you going to be around. If so I'd like to pick up a few more AK47s. Let me know. Peter
Hi, Andy; Thanks for a great day on the river! I put on my other sun glasses this morning and found the reason, at least in part, I had a hard time seeing the fly. The polarized lenses I was using were my older prescription:) Bill
Andy, Thank you so much for the pictures! Filip just arrived home and told me what a great time he had, and how much he learned! Thank you again, Nicole
Mike is off on business travel today. I am bugging him to send his photos. He has one shot of a fish he caught that is clearly the fish of the trip. Caught on the upper flats with one of the #26 Flashes you gave us. I'll push him to send them ASAP. regards, Norb
Andy, Thanks for guiding Tom and I on Monday and Tuesday. Thursday, prior to leaving and heading back to Denver, we did very well down by the main channel in the Cable Hole. Caught some 20 inch rainbows that had nice 5 or 6 inch girths on them. Tom and I caught at least a dozen or so in the 2 hours we fished. The fly that worked the best was Andy's Yong Flasher top and bottom. For the first half hour or so we tried blondie closest to sinker and yong special bottom but had no productivity. Thanks John Kissell
Andy, Got home about 10:00 last night. Up above the cable hole yesterday at about 9:00 for a couple hours and caught several after 10:00 on yflasher, nice big fish. Tried yblondie and yblood when first got there but didn't get any. Maybe not far enough out in the current or down deep fun. Fished the south side because other side was full of guys. Had a good time the past few days. Thanks for flies and dinner the other night. Want to get to yampa, FP and RF next month. We are going to Granby over the 4th of July for horse show with Leanne so maybe can get down on the CO if water goes down. Later Tom
Hope all is well with you on the San Juan, I still re-live the outing on the River with you and my Grandson, Jonathan !! what a great time...I'll be back up your way this fall for sure! Sam Fry
Hey Andy sorry I missed ya. I left my cell in my car. Thanks a lot for the picture! Had a lot of fun today, had six more fish in the net after you left and probably lost about that many after getting it hooked. Thanks for your lessons and your flys! Dinner at seven sounds good. I will meet you at the restaurant at 7. Thanks again. Josh
Andy, Thanks so much for a special trip. Hope I can remember at least half of what you taught me. Thanks again, John Anderson
Andy, Thanks for the good time and pictures. How was the Arkansas? It was cold and rainy here in Denver yesterday. Ate the fish last night was very good. Looking at coming down the week of June 19. Let me know what you have available that week. I assume run off will be coming to end about that time. Tom
Hey, We had great time. I think I am getting the hang of fly fishing. I did pretty good!!! Take care. Sonja Hickingbottom
It was best time I ever had fly fishing in terms of fishing in many different ways. I've learned a lot from you on this trip. Your technique has now sunk in with me as far as how to mend the line properly and how to fish certain types of waters that was front of me. Riffles, drop offs, deep pools, slow pool, fast waters, pocket water, and more... You know which one was my favorite of them all... Caught so many trout fishing that technique you'd taught me especially on that middle of a long riffle, on top of the bank to a feeding trout below. Distinguishing and setting up #2 or #3 is still bit hard but I'll certain always have knots in between two flies as well as knot above the first fly as wel I was lazy and really didn't care about it since I don't nymph fish much at all. I now know that when I visit Merced river near Yosemite National Park and Kern river, I'm confident that I can catch more fish since I now know how to setup for nymphing waters there properly. I still caught trout being lazy before but now? I'm more confident in what I do now. I just needed to figure out what flies (nymphs) will work on Merced river. Do you have any ideas? Fishing there will be awesome once water level and all the crowds dissipated. If you come around that time, fall time, then you can show me how to nymph that water if dries are not on the menu. I know there are some big ones in those deep pools. Will require # 4 rigging perhaps. Yes, #4 rigging, using egg sinkers for the weight--HA HA! Can you kindly send me Tom's and Steve's email address please? I need to learn to tie Yong wing. I'm sure that is one of the best flies anywhere. Thanks again for all the great time I had with you and your great friends. Best regards, John Kim
Hey Andy I am back in Albuquerque now. Thank you for the guided trip it was awesome. I plan to do it again in September because you showed me a lot, and I want learn more from you. It's cool that you still helped me even though you were guiding someone else.....I lost all the yon flashers cause my line was all screwy and from forcing the fish to much so I tried a black mono midge that I tied that worked well so I will be ordering more flies from you and your leader that you make. Adam
Hey Andy, This is Bruce ( the one armed fisherman ) and I was wondering when a good time would be to contact you on Tuesday or Wednesday? I am interested in looking at your flies and buying some. I hope you had a great fishing trip in Colorado. Your client Larry was great fun to watch. Let me know a time. Thanks and have a good week. Bruce Stell
Hi Joe public, I've known Andy and Jerry (the only guide on the Juan) that Andy has confidence in for well over 15 years. I started fishing the Juan in 1969 using a weighted jig called the "rock a roo" catching beautiful fish on a regular basis. When the waters were changed to quality waters and to catch and release I gave up fishing the Juan...I didn't know how to fish the quality waters...in the mid 90's I met local artist and fisherman David Carpenter and I was able to hook up with some fish and land some of those monsters occasionally. One time David and I were fishing well below Texas Hole and there was a guide across the river from us with 2 clients who caught and released at least 15 fish in a very short period of time, David told me that he was a new guide...Andy Kim. I waited for him, we talked and I have been using him ever since. Those of you who come once or twice per year I highly recommend you contact Andy...if he's not home leave a message...he's very busy... the tiny little midges in the river tend to have a short life, so colors and sizes change often...since AK is on the river constantly he knows the fishes location and proper flies to use during your visit...Master Kim, my name for AK, is the type of person who sucks the oxygen out of a room, type A personality... he will give you an experience of a lifetime, at the same time, he will teach you tricks that you will use everywhere you fish and like me you will be bombarded by fellow anglers asking you...what are you using? Can I see the fly?... presently there is no better wading guide on the Juan...call 505 334-0909 Buenas Hatches (Great Hatches) CoCo
Andy, I have attached the picture of my big fish Saturday AM, how big do you think it was? I need to tell you that I landed 11 or 13 strikes Sunday AM before I had to leave. The 11 I landed were using the AK method. The two I missed were; first one, because I held the line and did not let go and second one, because I turned away from the fish with my body to try to tighten the line. In both cases I knew right away. Thanks so much. PS - My daughter thinks it might be a good idea to try it next year. We will see if it works out. Galen Killam
Andy, Thanks for the fishing trip and Korean food. I thought it was very good. When I come to the San Juan you will have to make me some of the soup. It was tasty. Tom
Thanks again Andy for a great day fishing. Paul
Dear Andy, Thanks again for a great day of fishing last week. My son Chris and I had a great time, and learned a whole lot about presentation and landing big fish on tiny flies. The double we had was incredible! Landing 23 inch trout on 3 weight rod and size 26 fly is something we will remember for a long, long time. Hopefully we will return again sooner next time. All the best, Paul
Hi Andy, NICE FISH! It's a good thing "for your client" that I used "Andy Kim's Martial Arts Technique" for fighting that rainbow to submission...and the final take down with your new "Big Net"! You are truly a gifted instructor with the passion and patience of blue heron. Whistle while you work, my friend (but not to Barry Manilow!). Tight lines, Brad "Big Net" Coleman
Hi Andy....... Just a reminder to email me the photos of Tom and myself from last Wednesday. Had a great time both days......thanks Darwin
Andy Thank you again for the lessons you taught myself and my daughter on the river. Your patience and time with us was excellent. You not only taught me a few things but you increased Makaylee's confidence in her fishing abilities as well as teaching other aspects of the fishing world. We can't wait to book a trip with you. Again thank you and I will continue to recommend you as an excellent guide to customers who visit Zia Sporting Goods. Thanks, Tony
Andy, One of the pictures you took of Sonja on our last trip is on our home computer desk top. We are reminded of the great time we had on the river each day when we see it. It has been a great experience for us both. Thanks again for helping make it a great time for us. Ken Hickingbottom
I will be on the river Xmas Day and having supper with Jerry and Sok Cheng...will you be around...let me know... I may need some more flies.. I think you showed me how to fish for porpoising trout... we were at upper flats fishing the beaver dam and we walked up and a pool of slow water like a bay...you re-rigged put on Andy's candy...greased leader above fly and caught a big fish with first cast...is this correct or am I dreaming..let me know...not tried it yet but I will...if you say so... Come eat with us...smoked ribs, coleslaw, and home made pecan pie with whip cream Always CoCo
Hi Andy, thanks for the photos. It was great fishing with you hope we can do it again next year. Sorry to have gotten sick, must have been a mild flu or food poisoning. Didn't last long. Take care of the fish, see you hopefully next time. Jerry
Andy, Thank you for showing us a great time on the river and Andy's methods for successful fishing. Please email me the photos. I enjoyed our time together and your fishing methods helped us catch a lot of fish. Great fun. Thanks. Paul Powell
Andy, Truth comes from the observation of nature, seeing things so subtle they are invisible to most eyes. Not you! You are one of the rare ones....someone who can see and somewhat control nature. A true master..... I had a blast learning from you. I knew I would. I will be back, when , I do not know. I am open to suggestions. 3 days was not long enough to familiarize myself with the river. I have to fish at least 4 days next time . thanks again for the great experience! Bob Mizono
My brother and I were fishing next to you on the San Juan upstream of texas hole Wednesday morning. You had a group of clients sight fishing in the shallows, and they were all slamming fish on the surface. i was already missing the action when i decided to check out youtube to see what there is to see about that miracle of flyfishing known as the San Juan...first video i clicked i recognized your voice, just wanted to say that you are one hell of a guide who definitely knows what he is talking about. Your clients and me and my brother got our moneys worth!! I am planning on moving out to Durango, one of these days i will say hello, that's a promise..... tight lines from Pennsylvania!!! (fisherman's paradise on Spring Creek used to be my home waters while I attended Penn State....we are both a little lucky it seems...) Malcolm Holley
Dear Andy, Richard and I wanted to share this photo with you and also thank you for a wonderful trip on the 28th of October. You had come very highly recommended, and after a day on the San Juan with you, we now understand why! We both learned a tremendous amount from you, and also had a really great time doing it. Your teaching style insures a high degree of retention, even for an old guy like me or a young pup like Richard. You had us catching fish within minutes and as the day progressed your "gentle" coaxing had a significant impact on our newly acquired skills. We used to be pleased with 2-3 fish a day on your river, but now I don't think either one of us will be happy with less than several dozen hookups a day. We must have been taught well because we were back on the river for two days following our trip with you and had folks actually asking us what we were "using"! It's really fun to walk into the "Kiddie Pool" were several people are fishing (but not catching) and start catching fish right under their noses! You are one of the best Andy, and we will be back for more! Thanks for a great trip, Richard and Jim
Andy, Thank you for showing us a great time on the river and Andy's methods for successful fishing. Please email me the photos. I enjoyed our time together and your fishing methods helped us catch a lot of fish. Great fun. Thanks. Paul Powell
Orale Vato...Good Morning!! Your flies did it again...on Th. and Fri. I tore them up...I was the only one in upper flats catching fish...I must have had 6-8 men ask what I was using...I even showed them the flies, told them about you and gave them your #...one guy Don said he would email you...I hope you guys connected. Warm Personal Regards, COCO
Andy, As usual we had another great time fishing with you. Attached are a couple of pictures of fish that we caught on our own Sunday and Monday afternoon using Master Kim's fishing techniques. Thanks again, Steve
Andy, We sure enjoyed spending the day with you last Friday. We did well Saturday and Sunday as well using the flies you made for us and the techniques you taught us. Hope your sciatica is better. As I said I would highly recommend the inversion table which will eliminate your problem. The brand I recommend is Teeter. It is the best as far as I'm concerned. Good luck and tight lines. Fred Bennett
Thanks again Andy. We had a great trip and hopefully learned a lot. Fred and I did pretty well on Sat. and Sun. using your technique and flies. See you next time. Randy Hearne
Andy, Thanks for a great time on the river! I continued setting the hook too hard yesterday most of the times. The interesting part is that when used only wrist, I landed fish. Imaging that! So I am a strong convert to easy setting of the hook now. I will need a lot of practice, though, old bad habits die hard! Naomi hooked and landed her fist SJ trout on dry fly, Andy's candy, last fish of the day yesterday, just before we were ready to leave. Awesome! She was so thrilled! I think she is hooked on SJ, thanks to you! Hope she will be coming to SJ with me in the future. I will try to computerize my shooting film of Naomi, and send it to you. Thanks again! Roman.
Dear Andy, Thank you so much for an enjoyable time fishing on Tuesday. I also enjoyed watching you mess up my spin cast rod. You actually made me look pretty good. I would appreciate it if you would send me the pictures you took of my fish so I can show my wife. Thanks again Andy for a great time and when I'm coming back with my wife we will call for an appointment for a day of fishing. Many Thanks, Mike Pollock (Oklahoma)
Hello Andy: I am enclosing two photos I shot of you trying one of my Tenkara rods. Just open the enclosed attachments to see them. You may use them in any way you wish. I enjoyed meeting and fishing with you and hearing your ideas on catching San Juan trout. You are a gentleman. I gave Mike the video you brought by the motel room and he thanks you for it. Regards, Kent Halsell
Hey Andy, I am back home and really missing the trout. I had a great time and it was good to see you again. Hope you got at least one good picture of you with your trout and without the snagged san juan worm. If you want to get away from the cold and come down for some golf, let me know. Matt
Andy, Greetings to you from Corrales on this very pleasant evening here in the high desert of New Mexico. Thanks so much for sending that series of photos. The bend in that four weight rod tells a story all of its own. I was able to share the photos and part of the trip with Carol. She sends her compliments on your guiding and photography skills. Also, thanks very much for the really nice tip on fishing below that island in the Kidde Pool. As I mentioned to you, I fished the Texas Hole for about an hour without success. The guides in the boats were having a slow day as well. I moved upstream and found that location below the island in the Kidde Pool. The place was loaded with feeding trout and the water was crystal clear. I kept thinking, "Boy, I wish Andy was here to see this." I fished for quite awhile and managed to hook several fish. Setting the hook was problematical. After I experienced my third serious tangle, I looked at my watch and thought, I better be heading home. Can you give me the basics on the leader that you constructed for me? I will take your instructions and tie up a couple of leaders to use for my next trip the San Juan. Hopefully, I will be able to get back up there around the last week of October. Maybe the fall colors will hang around that long. Hope you had a great day on the San Juan. Adios amigo. Patrick
Hey Andy, Thanks again, Roy!
Hi guys, my stay was fantastic, wind was an issue but I endured...Wed. I spotted a baetis hatch in the back channel of baetis bend and boy did I have fun...the hatch lasted about an hour and landed at least 12...grey, cream, bloods and blondies did not work at all...maroon, I specials, and wings worked very well...yesterday I went back my honey hole...fishing by 8: 00am...again I caught several but the highlight of my week was catching 2 back to back browns on the maroon special one of them was so beautiful, draped in orange that when I first caught site of him I thought it was a carp...that fish was so beautiful it should have been in a magazine...18 1/2 inches hooked jaw and the orange coloring was remarkable...huge spots both red and black very vivid colors...I wished one of you would have been with me for the photo op and lasting memories... Happy Thanksgiving your friend CoCo
Andy, As usual we had another great time fishing with you. Attached are a couple of pictures of fish that we caught on our own Sunday and Monday afternoon using Master Kim's fishing techniques. Thanks again, Steve
Andy, I want to thank you again for a GREAT experience last Tuesday. Even though we were slow learners on some of your tips, you showed us how to be much better San Juan fishermen. Also, would like your recommendation for a good 2wt rod and brand of line to match. Thanks again Dave Otter
Andy, I used Cheryl's card reader to load the files from the memory card and that worked. Before I had simple connected the camera directly to my PC and that didn't work. Thanks for everything as it was a great day for Dick. Barry
Andy, I hope you get the reel seat fixed by sage. I think that a lot of companies are doing the same thing but I do agree for the cost that they are being kinda cheap that way. Please get the reel seat fixed. see if they can put in a graphite seat since that is waterproof. Remember - that was really the first rod in a while that ever challenged you. It still has a long while to go before you stop smiling with that rod in hand... my father went fishing yesterday, my mother had him cleaning the carpeting in the house and he had to take a break and went bass fishing. I think that the trip rejuvenated his interest in fishing a bit... Alex is also at a new level of fishing now and he is having so much more fun. thanks for being more than just my master... thanks for being family... I'll send more pics, thanks brother :-) Mon
Sam Fry http://adventures-kim-sam.blogspot.com/2010/08/jonathan-fishes-san-juan-river-with.html
Hi Andy, As always, it is good to see you and had a great time on the river. i hope i can retain some of the information that i learn from you. Let me know when you plan on coming out this way and maybe we can play some golf together. Also, it sounds like it is around the same time as when myself, Steve and Randy plan to come to the river, so i would like to plan accordingly. Thanks Again, Brian
Too funny Andy. I can tell you for a fact there were PLENTY of fish in the river. Maybe they shouldn't all be so damn stubborn and learn how to fish the San Juan from the Master. I understand he is willing to teach anyone who is willing to listen how to catch trout anywhere in the world. Thomas N. Tracy, Jr.
Hi, Andy; Thank you for the fun fishing last week and the refresher course on the "YK" fishing class. As always, Bob and I had a great time fishing with you. If you have any pictures, I would appreciate receiving them. Regards, Dave <"())))><
Andy: Fred, Jim, and I really had a great time fishing with you and Jerry last Thursday, especially me since I caught a lot more fish than my expert buddies. I really learned a lot in a short period of time. Looking forward to fishing with you again before long. My casting can use a lot of improvement. When you get a chance email me the photos you took. Thanks again, Randy
Hi Andy, Just wanted to say thank you again for a great afternoon of fishing and the laughs we had. Looking forward to fishing with you again next year! Please don't forget to send over the pictures! Have a great week! Gary
Thanks for the instruction. I did fish better the next day. Sunday I landed a nice 20" rainbow on the back channel at Baetis Bend. I also caught 9 on dry flies. You really helped. I look forward to seeing you again next year. I also look forward to seeing some of the photos you took. I appreciated your taking time to capture these memories for us. ---Mark Woods
Andy: Just wanted to drop you a line and tell you how much I enjoyed the two days of fly fishing with you and Jim Harlow. I gave your name to several people who are thinking of heading to the San Juan. Thanks, Harold F. Christmann, Jr.
Thank you for the photos Andy they are great. Again, thank you for your patience, expertise and teaching on the river it was a memorable day. Sincerely, Ray Sedey
Andy: We had a great time. I caught a large fish that I will visit about with you via phone some evening. Will try to give you a call this week as we are interested in the entomology course. Phillip Glasson
Andy, On behalf of Bob, Mark, Kevin and myself, I just wanted to say thanks for a great tow days of fishing. I believe that we have made some progress in converting out two bass fishers (Mark & Kevin) over to fly-fishing. We can only promise on thing, God willing you will be hearing from some of us about return trip to the San Juan. I believe Bob and a fishing buddy of his are planing to return around the first week in Dec. By the way, we received your picture and they were great. Would you share with us the name and brand of the camera and film that you used, please. Your pictures were far superior to the ones we took. Enclosed you'll find some golf balls (thought you needed some variety to sharpen your game) and a book by Bob Rotella. If you really plan to be a scratch golfer within next 1-2 years I highly, make that strongly recommend that you go to the library or book store and buy Bob Rotella's Book "The golf of your dreams". In this book he gives you a day to day outline on how to be a scratch golfer. This guy works with the pro's and his books are great. We promise to in touch and we'll see you again soon. Thanks AL Brown
Dear Andy: The pictures were great, although I think the waders weren't to flattering to my figure! (Just kidding) We had a lot of fun with the subject on the air and TJ Trout is looking forward to scheduling a trip with you, but it may not be until the spring. Thanks again for the great trip. You are an excellent teacher and obviously the most knowledgeable person on the San Juan. We'd love to have you on the air if you have a free day. Just call and let us know if you plan to be in Albuquerque and we'll set it up. Here's a selection of airtime that we devoted to you?I've also given out the phone number and web site many times, even if that doesn't show up on this tape. Sincerely, Erica Viking
Dear Andy: Thanks you so much for the photos and thanks again for a swell time spent with you in Nov on the San Juan River. You are a great guide and I learned a lot from you. Pete and I are looking forward to our next trip in Feb, I hope we have as good weather then as we did before Thanksgiving. Incidentally we ran into two men from Farmington who knew you. Apparently you guided one of them, his name was Jim. The other gentleman was a CPA. The CPA said he was going to have you guide him and his wife one day. The point is that they spoke well of you and it sounds like you are developing a good reputation on the river. Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Sincerely, Bob Steele
Master Yong, Just a follow up letter to let you know how much fun we all had with you last week. Your knowledge of the San Juan is beyond words. The river was murky, fishing was tough, and as usual the only people catching fish were previous clients and our group. I can't believe you took my friend Murray from a rank beginner, to a fish catching machine in these conditions. I've never seen him smile so much. Both our teenage boys had a great time as well, you made the fishing seem too easy to them. As for me, I finally got to utter the ultimate fishing words, "my arms are so tired from catching all these fish, lets go play golf!" Thanks for your knowledge and friendship. Lane p.s. I'm glad you don't charge for golf lessons, there would be no tip. LOL!
Andy: My name is Lisa Devine -- you were a guide to Bill and I (with Larry and Jan) this past Saturday. I had a great time! You are a great guide - not just because you know what you are doing, but because you make it fun. I will recommend your services highly and hope to use you again in the near future! Lisa
Andy, I'm back home and looking at my pictures from the San Juan. I really enjoyed the day together and hope to see you on my next trip! Thank you for your good teaching of fly fishing "engineering" principles. Best wishes to you over the holidays and into the new year! -Dave Trumper
Hi Andy, Wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed fishing with you last Wed. We fished again on Friday at Middle flats did pretty good. Kelly out fished me again. No more instruction for him. Hope you are doing well, I will keep my eyes open for a female prospect for you. Want to order the video, tell me how.
Hi Andy, I just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I plan on seening several times in 99. Thanks for all that you have taught me. Please send me a quote on one video, 1 dozen young specials(dark), 1 dozen young blondie, and one dozen young dry. Ho Ho Ho Brian
Andy, Thank you for the wonderful day we had in mid November on the San Juan River. I realize my nymphing techniques need to improve before I spend money on expensive equipment. Today, I will be at Walmart looking for a fly rod and reel for my children for Christmas. I hope to bring the family down for some lessons. The main reason I'm writing is to find out if by chance you may have seen my gray cloth cover for my Sage rod? When we left that Friday I could not find my cover and thought maybe I left it in the back of your car the Wednesday we went to the river. Anyhow, let me know if you have run across it. Also I would like you to recommend some nymphs for down on the South Platte river near Deckers. When we get a nice day I would like to get in some practice and wanted to try your nymphs down there. Thank You John Kissell
Hope you have a Happy Holiday Season! People are still amazed when they see the size of trout we caught on vacation. The credit goes to you. People always say, "Russ, it looks like Judy caught the biggest fish..."---to which I respond, "The guide liked her better..." We've had mild weather in KC, except recently. It turned nasty the other day. Some snow, but very cold(Zero degrees). Wish I was still on the San Juan, warm and catching fish. Although, I bet you've had some severe weather, too. Does that make the fishing better? Anyway, hope you are well, and having fun. I'll order a video one of these days. Best Regards, Russ & Judy
Hello and Merry Christmas!!! Thanks for the card. Hope things are well up in Aztec. Glad to hear your video is finally available. Could you please send me one. Let me know if you want the check sent first. My address isI also wanted to know if you will be available to guide on March 31(first choice), or April 1, 1999, as I will be making my spring trip up there at that time. I will be bringing two new flyfishers to the San Juan, plus Phil who fished with me last year. I will also need about two-three dozen flies at that time if possible. Let me know about those dates, and thanks in advance. Have a Happy New Year!!! Sincerely, James Sameshima
Hi Andy, Words cannot describe the experience my son and I had with you last week. Your skill, knowledge and ability to teach was evident in the first 15 minutes we on the river. A smile still crosses my face when I remember the look on all the other fishermen working the same hole watching my teenage son hook up on every third or fourth cast. The fact the water was muddy, with no visibility and we still caught fish is a testament to your knowledge of this river and its fish. I'm still telling anyone who'll listen about this trip, they are amazed to hear the smallest fish I landed was 18 inches and the largest was 22 1/2 inches. I can't wait to see the pictures you took. My son and I will always remember this trip, and I never forget the seldom heard words my son uttered "I think I've caught too many fish, I'd like to stop and rest for a while." And to think, that was before lunch. Thank you for the unforgettable memories. Sincerely, Lane Ochi
Yong, Thanks for the day of fishing on the Juan....You are the Man. Difficult conditions don't seem to hold you up on catching fish. You amaze me with your skill level. How did your session go with that group you were instructing (dad, granddad and son), I laughed to myself a couple of times when you were instructing them. You would tell then, demonstrate, ask if they understood and then they would go and do something completely different. Reminds me of some special education students I once had We might be down the second week of March for Spring Break to fish so we'll keep in contact with you. I did manage to fish Simon Point for a hour or two and hooked to large fish on dark special but they broke off in heavy current. Found a side channel directly east of the "Kiddie Pool" and caught eight nice sized fish on YOJ and dark special plus a couple of other patterns. Reviewed your tape again. Each time I see it I learn something else that I miseed the other times I've seen it. Can't wait to help you if I can on Volume 2. I'm sure Jerry Hubka would be willing to help with art also if you ask him. We both appreciate what you have done for us. Peace, Rickey Takahashi
Anyway, I wish you much success in this New Year. Oh, I used Yong Specials yesterday on Putah Creek and landed two 5 pounders, 19 and 20 1/2 inches (on 6x tippet). Yong flies succeed again! Take care. Keith Andy: Hi. Thought I drop you a line and tell you I received your video and files. Thanks. I watched the video with my 5-year old daughter. Her spontaneous comment at about the half-way point was "That guy's a good fisher!". We both liked the video. I fished the San Juan a couple of weeks ago. The water was cloudy and the air was raining, windy, and cold. Still caught a bunch and had a great time. I didn't see you car in the lot so I figured you were home like a reasonable person, given the poor weather. I am going to Flordia for some saltwater fishing at the end of Feb. I will let you know how it went. I am thinking of a guide trip on the San Juan maybe in March. I will let you know. Thanks again and good luck. Tom
Andy -- We fished with you last Monday -- had a great time! I'm having some of the pictures duplicated and will send them on to you. We fished 4 hours on Tuesday and again on Wednesday. Neel did better on Tuesday -- me on Wednesday. I'm "seeing" better. Thanks for the lessons! Marianne Bennett
Andy, Great video. I can't wait to fish with you in clear water. Hope you like the photo of the fish. It made Neal very jealous. See ya. Lane Ochi
Hi Andy, Received the video today,great job on your first time out!Really enjoyed watching you catch all those fish.I also enjoyed your humor and the out-takes during the video.The San Juan does have some beautiful fish and I hope to one day fish it.Go ahead and cash my check,I'm keeping the video to add to my flyfishing library.I've already watched it twice and enjoy the tips on drift,observation,and landing fish on small tippets... Once again,thanks for the video and keep on catching all those BIG fish :) Tight lines and happy flyfishing, Jim
Andy,missed fishing with you this season and want to tell everyone that the letters you get on E-mail are unsolicited. Every thing about the young special is true,and after fishing with them and you,I`m convinced they are better then worms. Don Alcorn,Aurora Colo.80011.tite lines andy and hope you`re enjoying living in Aztec.
HI Andy I enjoyed with you fishing in San Juan this time. I was watching your video with my family, Toronto, Canada. Some of the strikes are not visible even I paused the video, you must see the fish open mouth, which we can not see on the screen. Thanks for my rating 8/10 I wish to get 10 in October. Hiroshi
Andy, I understand your position concerning your special flies. Please keep my e-mail address and when you are going to have your special tying classes please e-mail me and let me know. I've watched several guides over the years, and most of them you couldn't pay me to fish with them let alone me pay them. I just wanted to let you know that you are the exception to the rule. I enjoy watching you work with, and teach others how to fish. Most of the guides I've watched I feel like I could probabily out fish, its good to watch a guide who trully knows what he is doing, keep up the good work, I wish there were more guides like you on the rivers. See you on the river. Eric
Hi Andy, Enjoyed fishing with you last week--great FUN. On your fishing report last week, you asked for feedback on the seminar program. My only suggestion , beyond what you are proposing, is to have one of the sessions limited to three participants. I think the seminar program is a great idea! You're a real professional. Thanks, Max Forbert
? Hey Andy, ? ? I had a great time! Told everyone at the local fly shop about you. I ? think they were jealous. ? Do you have any time on Oct. 10, 11 or 12???? ? ? Brad Gardner ? Gardner, Brad would like to recall the message, "You are the MAN!!".
Marian and I enjoyed fishing with you last week. A couple of days ago, while fishing on the San Juan, I ran into an "Andy Kim Skeptic" who claims that the reason you and your clients catch so many fish is because your technique promotes "snagging". After giving that some thought, I haven't been able to figure out how we consistently "snag" the fish in the mouth only, and also how we only "snag" them when we match the hatch. I have probably had one body snag in the last 200 fish. I'll think about it some more and maybe I'll come up with an answer. Max Forbert
To: yspecial@sprynet.com What if I don't catch 24 fish? Do I still have to pay? Does your 24 fish guarantee include all the fish that you catch as well? Does it also include the fish that we simply see? Do you think that promoting a 24 fish guarantee will help or promote the conservation of the river or is this simply to enhance your pocket-book? Do we have to wear a breathe-right when we fish? If I catch 23 fish does that mean that I had a bad day? Don't you find yourself a tad bit presumptuous? To Mr. No name, Thank you for your opinion, I believe everyone in this country are entitled to have own opinion even myself. Happy fishing! Andy
The interesting fishing -- the tough fishing -- was during the mid morning and early afternoon. That's when we switched to a size 16 bead head Yong special trailed by a size 16 Yong special. That's also when we were basically the only ones consistently catching fish. I was pretty proud of myself when I overheard a number of people commenting that we were outfishing even the local veterans. The one "local" who's a decent guy (the others really don't like guys in float tubes, especially when they're outfishing them) is the one I spoke of who fishes routinely with the likes of Lefty Kreh and Guy Perkins (Mr. Orvis). We spoke briefly about the prospects of marketing these flies (which he did not see, but saw the action on), and he indicated there isn't too much business discussed on these trips...in other words, he was politely saying he wasn't interested. Keep in touch. Your friend. Shawn
Andy: Here are some of the pictures. Thanks again I learned a lot about sight fishing and was able to catch 30 or more fish a day, most over 19" since I was picking my target. Mondy Lariz
Andy, Just a note to let you know how much fun we had yesterday. Wendell, Joel and I had a ball! I appreciate all the advice and I will certainly recommend you to anyone looking to learn about the San Juan. I just hope you don't get too busy to guide us again! I look forward to seeing the pictures (if they turned out). I hope your camera is OK. I'll send you copies of the ones on my camera if you want. I'll be contacting you soon about buying some flies. Thanks again, Andy. Lou Metzger P.S. I was in Charlie's this morning and told them what a first class guide you are, and a fun guy to fish with. Just had to set everyone straight!
Hi Andy! Darren and JK are asking about how fishing is at the San Juan during the end of December when they are on vacation. They wanted to know about the weather and whether you had any days available. I still need to send you some pictures. Hope you are doing well. The kids are still talking about their trip last Spring. Hope to hear from you. Thanks.
Andy, Had a great time with you on Friday, we tried some of the things you taught us on Saturday and did very good. Went to the same place, got there 10 minutes before a guide from ABE's showed up. We could here their disappointment when they saw us fishing where they wanted to go. We nymph fish until the midge hatch started. Then went to the Yong's Dry. Later the Baetis started, and the fish went crazy. Thanks again, see you the Wed. before Christmas. Larry
Andy, Thanks for the trip on November 12. This was my second trip with you and was great. Caught 35 to 40 fish just like the first time. Thanks for sharing your knowledge on your nymph and emerger fishing. No doubt you are the best guide I've ever been with. Just a question, would like to order one of your new video's. How much is the video and where do I send check? Please let me know. See you early next spring or after the run off. Thanks. Dear Andy, I just found some time to find your web site and spent an hour reading all your categories, what a great web site and you have done a great Job organizing it!!! Hope you are well and Rick Takahashi and I enjoyed seeing you again at the "Juan" over Labor day. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and I'll see you soon at the river. Sincerely, Hubs I can't thank you enough for your help. I look forward to my next trip down to the San Juan. I am going to try and make it down this Summer/Fall. It is so much more difficult to make it down to the San Juan from Colorado Springs rather than Albuquerque. I will look you up and try to book a half day trip when I figure out when I will be able to come down. If you are ever in the Colorado Springs area please contact me. The South Platte is a great place to fish. Sincerely, Miguel Colocho
Hello Andy, Again, thanks for the great day we had fishing with you on 5 March. Rob and I would like to buy a dozen of your flies. John Williamson
Hi Andy, Can you please send us your video. Enclosed is a check for it. We hope to see you soon. Neal and Ryan Murphy P.S. Lane Ochi had a fantastic trip with you. He wouldn't shut up for a week after coming back. Kept calling me and sending photos.
Andy, Got the photos today, thanks again for the usual great day of fishing. Everyone had a terrific time. Dana and Phil send their thanks as well. Hopefuly I can get up there later this year. Talk to you later. Jim
Thank you again for the lessons on dry fly fishing on the "Juan". Saturday with you was as wonderful learning experience and I am on my way to becoming a well-rounded fisherman. Easter Sunday's midge hatch was unbelievable...I was in the water by 11am and it starting snowing huge flakes moments later a baetis hatch came off and it was difficult for me to tell which fly was mine... they weren't sucking down baetis though...they were after the midges and your fly (Yong dry) worked so well I caught a fish first cast for over an hour...I did exactly what you taught me...find your target toss about 2ft. in front and bingo...trout on...just like magic! I'm very grateful that you share your knowledge and experience with your clients...I feel we are very fortunate...I've been told that other guides have a special supply of flies and that they sell a slightly different type of fly so that people cannot obtain the exact imitations...not true with you Andy we get the right one...Monday I was on the middle flats by 9:30 armed with Yong blond and special I was blind and sight fishing... the techniques you taught me so well...3rd cast I hooked a 18in cutbow and by noon I had caught and released 20 plus fish...It seemed that no one had been fishing with your flies on that water for a few days...What a morning! To cap the morning off just before I left the river...I noticed one of the Osprey's circling overhead and making this shrieking sound and dove about 25-30yards right in front of me...I could see his eyes and beak clearly and when he took off it had about a 15in. trout in is claws what a sight, the birds markings were incredible...His flight path flew over my head as I looked up to follow the bird small droplets of water hit my hat and face...It was remarkable! Talk to you soon CoCo---------- > > Andy look forward to your seminar..As you know I want to learn how to tie > good strong knots, adjust my rigging for deeper water and when to change > flies..Count me in for the Seminar...Always CoCo >
Andy, I would like to thank you for the full-day fishing trip. You have exceptional skills, and a sincere interest in teaching those skills to others. However, it is apparent that I'll never be able to see the trout as well you do due to my red/green color deficiency. I may have to rely more on simply reading the surface of the stream and the water's interaction with the bottom, e.g., impressions or gravel bars. That's what I do now. In addition, I attribute the braking of the 6X line so many times to my (heavy) 9ft rod. I'll definitely put that one in the closet, except (perhaps) fishing at Lees Ferry where longs floats are suggested. Stef PS. Please let me know what I owe. Don't forget the 3 dozen flies I also got. They were heavily molested on both Saturday and Sunday! I may have lost only two, because I used my lighter 8.5ft rod. The fishing at the Cable Hole on Sunday went very well. Both the dark and cream midges were the ticket. I caught 14 big fish on dries (#20 BWO); the BWO hatch was reasonably heavy from 1:00 to 3:30pm, with at most 1.5 to 2ft between the BWOs. Above the Kiddy hole on Thursday, the BWO hatch was much denser, with about 6 inches between each BWO. DS.
Andy, I just got back from 4 great days on the Green River. The fishing was fantastic. We caught lots of fish nymph fishing with Yong JR and Yong Special, emerger fishing with 2 Yong Specials, and dry fly fishing with BWO parachutes and comparaduns as well as midge patterns. I hooked 3 fish on a number 28 midge pattern, but didn't land any of them. They probably would have taken a number 24, but after 40+ fish on a dry fly, I wanted a bit of a challenge. I saw Jerry on Sunday, and we fished together for a couple of hours. I must say I held my own, but we weren't exactly counting. Jerry says you may not come to the Green this year, let me know what your plans are. I'm hoping to go to the Green in early June. Shawn
Hi. This is Darren Fujimoto. My dad told me to email you to tell you that your telescope is at the front desk of The Step Back Inn. Thanks for the great trip. We had a lot of fun. I hope we can come again. Thanks.
Andy, Thank you for putting up with us on Saturday. We all had a great time learning what you have to offer. A lot! Sunday, I did a lot better with practice. I netted seven, in a half day, with only losing two flies. What a difference new eyes makes on the water, I bought some real polarized lenses. You would have changed my grade to an A in sight fishing, if you could have seen me with Marcus. Anyway, Just wanted to say thank your again and I will be keeping in touch. You are a wonderful teacher of your "Art", Scott Annala aka "9-fly"
Hi Andy, Thanks for the pics. My Buddy and I had a great time in spite of the weather and plan to come back after the Dam Megaflush. When is it going to start and how long is it going to last? Got another Buddy that REALLY wants to get into Fly Fishing so we are going over beginner's gear for him to buy. This guy was a combat medic in VN, And was a conscientious objector (never carried a weapon). He's gott bigger ones than I had. Till next time. Bob in El Paso
Just a note to thank you for your extra effort to get the flies to us last Saturday. We used them with great success. Every fish I caught Sat. morning was with the "Yong flash". I tied it on the point with a brown Yong special as the top fly. I only fished the side runs and used your method of sight fishing for the big ones that were feeding actively. It was really great fun. I caught 12 fish in about 4 hours. None of the fish were in water deeper than about 10-15". This is really the only way to fish! It was great to have at least a half day without the wind blowing us over. Overall, we had a wonderful trip. I watched the video the other day and enjoyed it very much. It reminded me of many of the things that you taught us but that had been forgotten. I will pass it around to all the guys to see. Thanks again for the personalized copy. Keeping hitting the ball long and straight! Your friend, Doc
Andy, Just wanted to put my 2cents worth in. Had a great day with you Saturday, thanks for being such a good sport. All we could talk about was how good everything turned out this weekend, and how good of a teacher, and fisherman you were. Your flies were great for Sunday I heeded your advice and just kept the Special up top, with the Flasher on the bottom. I ended up catching 9 fish for just a half day on Sunday, not bad for somebody that had not caught that many by myself if you added all my trips together. Everybody wanted to know what I was using because it was pretty slow for everybody else except Scott. Marcus, and me. Once again, I think you are a great teacher and fisherman. It was the smartest money I could have spent. I will be back, and I thank you for all that you did for us. Lee Christmas
I tried a Yong JR copy on that last trip to the Green (which I saw you included on the customer letters section of your web page...if I had known you were going to use it there I would have given you a better promotional piece). It worked pretty well, but it didn't seem to work quite as well as the original in the slower water...How can I get some material? Also, I think Anglers Inn is interested in buying some flies, and they want me to bring in some samples? Do you want to send me some samples and/or materials or should I show them the one's I've tied? Take care, Shawn
Hi Andy! Received the flies on Saturday. We look forward to using them in the High Sierras. Hope you enjoyed the pictures I sent. It's amazing that four of us could catch a fish at one time. The picture is the proof of how good your flies work. Thanks! Norm
Dear Andy, I would like to thank you for helping all of us in having a wonderful time in New Mexico. Especially Eiichi and George, they have said that they really has a great time. My son Mike and myself would still like to learn more of your secrets to fly fishing and hope that some day soon we'll be able to return. Thanks again. Jerry Uchiyama
Dear Andy A short note to thank you putting on the fishing seminar last week. It was an outstanding presentation. In fact it was the most rewarding fishing experience I have ever had--bar none! Tons of info, I'm sure it's going to take me awhile to fully process. If any of you out there reading this have the opportunity to attend Andy's seminar, do so, it is well worth the time and money. Dr. Max Forbert
Hi Andy: At my request, Bill Bradford brought me back a copy of your instructional video when he returned from your seminar last week. Bill had great things to say about the seminar and I only wish I had been able to attend - maybe next time! At any rate, your video is great and it was easy to visualize that I was standing in the water with you observing your techniques. I note that you label it "Volume 1" - hope this means there are more to come! Have a great time in Colorado and hope to see you on the Juan when you return. Guy Mangus Albuquerque, NM
Hi Andy, I went down to the West Branch of the Delaware last night, saw some Green Drakes coming off but very picky action seemingly on other flies. Tough stuff but I caught 6 so altogether a good night. Plus had the pool to myself which always makes me feel better. Couldn't help reflecting, while standing in a run, on the SJ trip & it occurred to me that I had not written to you since your flies, photos etc turned up. Thank you for all that stuff it is treasured.... you single-handedly increased the # of shots of me with fish by about 10000%. But it looks too egotistical to put them up so I haven't. Also haven't tried the knot yet but hope to have some time soon for such things. Trust you are doing well & that the fish are, as ever on the SJ, 'biting'. Stay in touch Best wishes, Robin
Yong, Thanks for all your patience in teaching me to catch fish and most of all thanks for the Yong Special & Yong JR. I owe all my success to you. Your best friend Jerry Richards
Andy Thank's for the great picture's. Keenan and I are still talking about the trip and want to come back very soon. Let me know if you rent equipment waders etc, my wife Sherry want's to try her luck (she,s not as nice as I am.) Thank's again for the great time! Kevin Tegmeyer E-mail
Hey Andy! Thanks for sending the pictures via Steve Quan! Eddy and I got a kick out of the one with him holding the snake... especially since he doesn't like them. We also appreciated learning from you how to catch those fish I used to throw rocks at. I used to consider fishing for them a waste of time (fish all morning, catch one or two) in that slow, clear water where they can inspect your flies at will. I also liked your downstream delivery techniques, and hope to develop the same casting stroke you employ. Will be up at Hot Sulfur Springs next week as you suggested. Leaving tomorrow morning early. Hope you're having a good vacation. Gary
Andy, Thanks for getting back to me and I will be in touch with Skip. We had a great time with Henry and Mary Street at the vineyard/winery. Regards, Bob
Andy, I haven't had the pleasure of meeting you yet, but my husband speaks very highly of you!! I am not sure if he told you, but I am 8 months pregnant and can't fit into my waders anymore, or I would be headed to the San Juan as well!!!! If you see Scott, tell him I am thinking of him and wishing him lots of "tight lines"!! Thank you for all you have done for him!! Alicia Annala
Andy, I sure had a great time this past weekend. Your flies are wonderful. My only proof of the size of trout is your photo you were nice enough to take when you were with other clients. I would like the photo if you could mail it to me. Thank you again for a wonderful weekend. I will keep in touch as I do need more flies. Tight Lines, Scott Annala "9-fly"
My brother and myself recently had the opportunity to fish with Andy at the San Juan River. I must admit the first thought that came to mind was the twenty-four fish guarantee Andy claims. I personally developed this feeling that catching that amount of fish would determine the success of hiring Andy as a guide. What a false feeling I developed! Upon my day fishing with Andy I quickly realized that the amount of fish we caught really did not matter. The bottom line was Andy began teaching us how to be fly fishermen. As my brother and I skills progressed throughout the day our ability to catch fish escalated. We certainly caught our fair share of fish. I will certainly book at least one day of fishing with Andy as long as I continue to travel to the San Juan. I guarantee Andy will teach you how to be a better fisherman and probably most importantly to respect and enjoy the beauty of the San Juan and all it's habitant. Thanks Andy my brother and I will be back. Paul Diaz
Hello Andy, thanks for sending the pictures, I have a couple to send you as soon as I have a copy made. Glad to hear you are recovering, did you see a doctor or just rest up. The car is fine Brandon did a great job if you see him thank him for us. Thanks again for a great day we really enjoyed it. Shiela may be hooked on fly fishing. I will be in touch when I can plan another trip up there. Are there any nice places to stay if I don't want to camp. Other than Abes. Larry
Hi Andy, We are back in Wisconsin (at work...yuk) and just wanted to tell you once again what a wonderful time we had on the San Juan. We got our own pictures back and they turned out well also. The pictures of us with you in the parking lot are going to be a good advertisement for your guide service. It was just the best that it could possible have been. Our time with you on the San Juan will be one of those memories we will treasure for many years to come. We'll look forward to seeing you when we get down that way once again. Happy Fishing! Mickey & Carol
Andy, Ya'Ta'hey (hello in navajo) First of all, just want to thank you for being such a wonderful, patient, humorous, informative guide. I really enjoyed the half day we spent on the river. Now, I just have to majority work on unlearning my previous casting and use the method you taught me. By the way, my arm is recovering from fighting the 21 incher you couldn't net. haha Just kidding. Anyway, thanks again. You can send the photo you took to: Hopefully, I will get the chance to fish with you in the future. Good Day....PS. Just want to comment on your flies-they were AWESOME! AND THEN SOME. Joyce Becenti Crownpoint, NM
Andy, thanks again for a very enjoyable week. I got home safely and no one can believe the pictures! I'm trying to convince other people to come fishing with me next time. Good luck with the rest of the season. Monty
Dear Andy, Thanks so much for having me at your place for fun of fishing and golf. I hope to do it again! Fishing the San Juan is truly a unique experience. Your guidance on what to do and when made the occasion most fitting. Your friendship is important, your positive attitude is great! Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Baldness has genius, power and magic in it. Keep charging, never look back- enjoy your greatness! You will become a legend on the San Juan! Sincerely, Jerry
Andy, I just want to write and tell you that my wife and I had a great time fishing. We learned more in the 8 hours of fishing than we had in the last 2 years learning to flyfish on our own. My wife Ellen is so amazed at the number of fish she caught and landed with your instruction. I know that we were probably very frustrating to you but we learned a lot and had a great time. To test what we learned we went out the next day and I caught 8 fish in 2 hours and Ellen caught 5. I had never caught more than 6 in a 10 hour day at the San Juan and Ellen had only ever landed 1 in the last 2 years, so we did learn. Thanks Andy. We will see you on the river. Thank you, Patrick & Ellen Purtill
Hello Andy, just wanted to let you know we are back home and tell you we had a great time in spite of the rain. I really appreciate the time you spent helping Lucas with his fly fishing. You made quite an impression on him. He kept telling me how we were supposed to be fishing the rest of the trip, I finally ask him who he thought he was, Andy Kim, and he nodded his head yes with a big grin on his face! After we got the flies from you he caught 2 real nice rainbows the next morning, a 16 inch and one pushing 20 inches. I got a picture of him and he was very proud of himself. He also lost some and so did I but again we had a wonderful time. We're looking forward to seeing the pictures. Don't know when I'll get back up there but I'll be in touch when I can make another trip. Take care and good fishing. If you decide to move and guide somewhere else let me know where. Doug Reed & Lucas Bohot
Andy- Thanks for the video tape. Very enjoyable and educational. The fishing and golf were great! Hope to see you this fall, will call when plans finalized. Your friend, Frank
(The next letter was written by 9 years old) Dear Andy, Thank you for teaching me how to fly fish. I can believe I caught 10 fishes. I had a lot of fun with you. Thank you for taking the time to spend with me. Jhette
I enjoyed talking with you the other day. It sounds like you are doing well. I appreciate very much your gift of Yong's Flies. They are the without a doubt the best fly the San Juan has ever seen. Thanks, Mike
Dear Andy Enclosed is a small token of our appreciation of the great time you helped us have in our fishing with you last week. Since you had run out of room on your waders for fly storage, you may want to get a new pair and/ or a couple more fly rods. You made our fishing instructional and most enjoyable. Thanks so much, Andy, for the fabulous guiding, the extra lunch, dinner, pictures, flies and your patience. I'll send out the pictures to everyone with a copy of this note. We all look forward to fishing with you again soon. Your friend, Pete
Dear Andy Really enjoyed being with you. Gene sends his best! See you soon, The Professor Al
Hi Andy, Hello! Right now, I am in Alaska for business/pleasure. I stayed on the Kenai Peninsula and fished the Russian River and other creeks feeding Kenai Lake. I had an awesome time catching and releasing many, many, MANY Dolly Varden and Rainbow trout (avg. 18 inches!!!) The fish of the day was a football sized 24 inch Rainbow (about 7 1/2 pounds). It was an awesome weekend. Again, I must say the Andy Kim style and technique of fly fishing works just as well in Alaska as it does on the San Juan. -Keith
Rec'd the pictures today. They are great. Thank You. We enjoyed the day with you very much. Learned a lot, just need some nice weather so we can practice what you taught. I did get out today. Caught a dozen or so. Started where we started last week. Caught two on first two casts, just luck I think. Yong Special - olive. Nothing on Blondie, but rest of morning was Yong Special, cream and olive. Some good emerger fishing in KH before noon - just like you taught. Getting better with the mending. Once again, thanks. Look forward to when we can get out again w/you. Marvin
Andy: Just a short note to thank you again for another great time at the San Juan. I can't tell you how much I picked up by just fishing with you and Jerry. That was really nice of you to let Marshall and I fish with you and Jerry. We really enjoyed it. I am already looking forward to next year. I have not seen your video yet - perhaps tonight I will be able to do that. I really hope that it works out OK with Jerry. He is a very nice person. I look forward to your visit to your parents house next year. Both Marshall and I really would like to have dinner with you in Korea town. Just let me know. Maybe we could even go after some of those monster fish at Piru Creek. Take care, Andy. I hope that you have a profitable rest of 1999 now that the flow is down. Regards Jeff Schuh P.S. - When will our photos appear on the website?
Andy, I just want to tell you how great of a time Mike and I had back in April In spite of the wind and hail storm. You were really the greatest. I appreciate your care and concern for the fishery and the way you take care of your people. I tell everyone if they need a guide I know the best. You really helped Mike and he had a great time. The day after our trip we saw you on the river and you came over and helped him land the big fish he caught, that was really special, Thanks. I have also had the opportunity to show your video to some of my friends and they can't believe the number of fish and how you catch so many. We may come out in October late or early November. Anyway thanks again and I know everyday you have tight lines. Best regards, Ron Hopkins Arlington, TX
Andy - Just wanted to write you a short note to thank you for your patience and assistance as I learned the basics (and some of the finer points) of fly fishing. Jeff and I had a great time. We especially appreciated being able to go out with you and Jerry to fish socially after our "paid guide trip." I also enjoyed your company over dinner and the few lunches we had together. I plan to talk to my friend Dave (who has some fly fishing experience) to see about coming to the San Juan again next year. Please add me to you e-mail list so that I can receive your regular updates. Also, please let Jeff and I know when you're going to be in L.A. next so that we can take you out for a bite to eat. All the best, Marshall
Hi, Andy! How are things on the San Juan? My kids enjoyed fishing with you in July. It was nice of you to include Leanne. Think she liked it, even though she'll never admit it. I heard that my brother-in-law, Joe, had a great time with you on his recent trip, too. Thanks! Kelly Kissell
Andy, my brother Eddy Wong fished with you and Gary Yamaguchi in May. He says he learned a lot. Is this video a new one or your older one? Does the $26 include shipping? Thanks, Terry Wong
Andy- Thanks again for taking us fishing on Friday. The weather was beautiful and the fishing was great! At 50 fish, we certainly exceeded your 24 fish guarantee of a day of fishing at the San Juan. I suspect that we caught more trout that day than we had in all other fishing excursions over the past 10 years. Both I and the kids learned a lot about nymphing, and we gained a lot of confidence. I also wanted to express my thanks for your considerate attention to Tom and Brad. They benefited greatly from your instruction, and I felt very comfortable with your oversight and teaching so that I could concentrate on my own casting and catching. Attached are a couple of pictures from our trip. I hope that yours are a bit better than mine, and I anxiously await seeing the prints. In anticipation of our next trip to the San Juan, we would like to purchase a copy of your instructional fly fishing video. There were a lot of details that were flying over my head when you said them or showed me, and we want to be prepared for the next time by ourselves. I hope that there is also a little section dealing with dry fly fishing as well as nymphing some of the deeper streams. Finally, we need to purchase some of your flies/nymphs. Can you let me know about that? Sincerely, Hank Westrich
Hello Andy, Wow what a great time lee and I had. How doubles did we have ?( We lost count). I must say you are the king of the San Juan. Not only did we catch allot of fish but we also had allot of laugh's. Anyway It's time to stock up on some more "Yong" Special Flies so please let me know how to order. Tks for a great day! Steve.
How I ended up fishing with Andy Kim on the San Juan: I consider myself a beginner-mediocre fly fisher, but put a lot of days in it. This year (bragging a little bit here) I have been fortunate to fish 63 days so far. I first learned about Andy from a guy named Jerry Richards on the Green River at Littlehole. I had a really bad day on the Green late last August, fished for 9 1/2 hours the first day and not one strike (compared to last March I averaged 12 fish a day in the same stretch of river using Glowbugs and San Juan Worms). Tried (what I thought) hundreds of different fly and was really frustrated. Especially when the friends I was fishing with caught an average of 20+ fish for the day. I was having a really hard time nymph fishing in the shallow water, when you use your strike indicator as a guide or reference point to your fly. My timing was all off. I could never figure out where exactly my fly was in reference to that damn piece of yarn. This guy was fishing near us, and I swore he was using worms. Every other cast, if not every cast he would catch a fish. After about every 5th cast, he would whip his line in the water repeatedly, fiddle with his rig (this is where I thought he was stripping the worm off the hook, and then putting a little piece of worm back on). He was too far away for my eyes to see what he was fishing with, so it was pure assumption. He was dressed in full camo, no waders and never went out in the water above his ankles. I finally told my friends, that I was walking back to the trailer for a much needed cold beer. While walking down stream, I stopped to fish by the rocks just above the boat ramp at Little Hole. This camo guy was walking down stream a few minutes later. I asked him what he was fishing with, since I noticed his success near Coney Island. He showed me his rig with the smallest fly that I ever seen. He said that they were called Yong Special Brown and Yong Blue Jr. (pronounced Jay R) in a size 20 and 22. Simple little thread based midges. It was a double rig, with the fly's spaced apart by a foot, and then using #8 sinker spaced equally apart between the fly. Then 2.5 feet above the last fly, his striker indicator (1.5 times the water depth). He said go to the Conoco at Little Hole and buy some of these Yong Specials. I shook his hand, told him my name and asked what his name was, Jerry Richard's. I asked if the "jr" fly was named after him. He said, "yes". Went back to the trailer, drank my cold beer and my friends showed up. They complimented me on my patience and diligence that day. I told them about that camo guy and that we needed to stop by the Conoco in the morning to get some of these yong-special fly. The next morning walking out of the gas station, almost 50 dollars poorer, I questioned my intelligence. By pure accident, I saw Jerry in the parking lot that morning and he asked if I got the fly. I showed him the ones that I got. He said, if I did not catch any fish with these, he would buy them all back from me. He gave me some pointers on how to use the strike indicator as a reference point and with new found vigor I walked upstream to Coney Island. Pretty soon I was having more success (I'm counting hook-ups as well as landings - they still land more fish then me) then my friends and had the best day (12 landed fish) fly fishing ever. My friends started "borrowing" some of my fly that I bought. On the way back to the trailer, I noticed a magnetic sign on Jerry's truck about the yong-special.com website and the name Yong Andy Kim - I thought to myself, I am fishing with that guy. I called Andy when I got back to Salt Lake and made arrangements to have him guide me in October. I wanted to go sooner, but he was booked solid. What I thought would be (according to Mapquest.com) a 11 hour 42 minute drive, and Andy telling me it would take 9 hours to drive from Salt Lake to Navajo Dam, I started on my quest and I was on the road by 11:00am. While driving through Farmington, NM. going over in my head everything that I had packed, (I am always scared that someday I am going to forget my boots) I realized that even though I packed my sleeping pad, I forgot the sleeping bag. The next morning, walked over to the Abes Fly Shop and got some coffee. Purchased my fishing license. A gal named Shannon who works at Abes gave me some good advice. She pulled out a little map of the San Juan and quickly marked places where I could go fishing. I drove down to the place called Texas Hole. Put on my gear, looking at the map and picked a path. When I got to the bank of the river, I was at a loss of where to go. This was my first time on the San Juan River and it was all new to me. There seemed to be people fishing everywhere and it reminded me of fishing on the Lower Provo in Utah. More of a social event, then fly fishing, where you pick a hole and stay there as long as you can, less someone else takes your spot. Near the bank, I could see large browns in the redds. Never seeing browns spawn before, I found myself staring at them, watching them roll to their sides, clearing a spot for them to lay eggs. The water was so shallow, you would see pairs of fish swimming up stream with a portion of their backs exposed. I came to a spot where there were drift boats on the far side and a deep hole between us. This must be the Texas Hole. I fished there and above it with moderate success (8 fish). The next day, I met Andy. Not ever hiring a guide before, I asked him where his fly rod was. He said, "This is your day". It was pretty cool to have someone setup your entire rig and seeing him put on even smaller Yong-special fly (#24's). I told him about my timing problem with the strike indicator. He position two pieces of foam about 6 inches apart so that I would see how my fly was drifting. My 3rd cast, I landed a 19.5 inch rainbow - wow. About every other cast and sometimes every cast, with Andy's guidance I would hook and land a fish. Not one was a foul hook. All were in between 19-20 inches. I did hook (what Andy thought) a 23-24 inch rainbow. While the reel was giving out line, my drag on my STH grinned to a halt. I was stripping out line, timing it the best that I could. Finally too much pressure was put on the 6x tippet and it was gone. Luckily and with great superstition, I keep one of my first fly reels (a 11 year old Cortland) tucked in a pocket behind my vest. I almost forgot I had it and it was diffidently a trip saver. After about 4 hours, I was tired. Andy quickly pointed out to me the other guides that was on the river, 3 with clients and 1 without. Other then the guide fishing by himself, he said I had outfished all the others. Me? I was amazed. Andy guarantee's that you will catch 24 fish in a full day or your money back no matter what your skill level is. I handed my rod to Andy and said, your turn. I need a break. In the latter part of the day he taught me emerger fishing at Kitty(?) hole, using the same fly, with some floatant on the fly and line and no strike indicator. That was a blast. We fished close to 8:00pm that day. The next day, with all the advice swimming in my head from Andy, I started fishing the same spot. Looking around, only seeing a guide with a husband and wife, I realized I was on my own, but felt pretty confident. My first cast, I caught a big rainbow. This is when I noticed that my net was too small (we used Andy's the day before) and only 2/3rds of the fish fit in. After an hour, I must of caught a dozen fish. Then I heard the wife behind me say, "Why can't we catch fish like that guy over there?". I looked over my shoulder and got an angry stare from the guide. I just smiled back at them, and continued to fish. I heard him say in defense that the San Juan is a lot different then it use to be. There was a time when just about any fly would work, but now it is so specialized that it's hard to choose the right fly. Don't worry, it will get better in the afternoon. At that time, I wished a had a Andy's Fly Shop patch on the back of my vest. I enjoyed his guidance so much, I have booked myself already for next month and Jan. One of the guys that I fish with is going with me in November, and all 3 of us are going in January (what a way to start off the new year). The one advantage that I see about Andy, is you get a great (if not the best) guide, and a good friend afterwards. He is the most humble down to earth person I have ever met. His favorite rod is a Cabela's Three Forks 3wt rod, wears a beat up pair of Cabela's neoprene waders, the front of it covered with 40 or so fly, some with tippet still hooked on them. Makes his own foam strike indicators out of 3M double sided foam tape and pink wrapping paper. A far contrast to the other guides I saw, who looked like they walked off the page of a Orvis or LL Bean catalogue. :) In this one trip, I gained more knowledge, then the entire season thus far. I do not have the literary skill to put into words what it feels like. Blackett When you sit with a nice girl for two hours, you think it's only a minute. But when you sit on a hot stove for a minute, you think it's two hours. That's relativity. - Albert Einstein
Hi Andy, My friends (Bill and Barret) and I met you on Saturday and Sunday morning on the river. In fact when Bill and I (Dick) arrived at the river Denise was battling her 22 1/4" rainbow, the one that seemed to take forever to land. Congratulations on a terrific fish. After talking with you and watching Denise's success I am sending you an order for the Instructional Video. Thank goodness I only have to pay the San Juan River price of $26.00 and not the $39.00 Chicago price that Bill would have to pay. On my next trip to the river I'll certainly plan on a day or two of guiding from you. Your website looks good. I looked at it this evening after dinner. Thanks, Dick Dragiewicz
Hi Andy! Just wanted to say thanks again for a wonderful fishing weekend. I've not yet gotten to the store to develop my pictures, but I'll send you the best of the bunch whenever I get it done. I've not heard a peep from Uncle Al, so I'm assuming you guys are hauling in tons of those gorgeous rainbows and he is too exhausted to call and goad me, lol. I got out my Andy Kim Video and watched it last night...I'm gonna go back and "slo-mo" as you suggested. And then I'll hit the swimming pool for some casting practice. That and some fishing glasses will hopefully get me ready for my next trip! I can't wait. Denise Fuson
ANDY, First thank you for the best day of fly fishing i ever had .. not only i learn a lot about how to fly fish right , I can't wait to get back up there and catch another 20 plus fish in a half day. Me and Steve again wanted to say thanks. I also wanted to get the info on the rod you told me about while we were fishing with you . If i need to purchase it though you please let me know the price and what ever else i need to do to purchase the rod from you . thanks again Andy you are the man of the San Juan!!!! LEE MANGINO
Dear Andy, I wanted to thank you again for a great day on the river. I know Tom and Teresa had an equally great day. I don't think I'll be able to get back this month, but I'm working up a schedule for three days in March or April with a friend. I'll let you know as soon as we coordinate our schedules here and see how we can work into yours. Best, Dan Hill, North East, PA PS: You'll be happy (though probably not surprised) that I hooked 8 steelhead on my home stream using your shallow water/sight fishing indicator setup and presentation. PSS: I'll be in touch in the not too distant future regarding your business plan as well.
Andy, I am interested in purchasing your video. Please send information regarding how this may be done. Also, I would like to hire you for a full day trip. Would you send me a few of the dates in the near future that you aren't already booked? Perhaps I can arrange a few days off for myself around those days that you are available. The reason for my interest? I saw you on the river recently and said to myself, "Now there's someone who can really fish!" I am looking to improve as a fly fisherman and to learn more about the San Juan river. I hope you are enjoying the spectacular weather as of late! I know I sure have been loving it! Hope to her from you soon.
Andy, Wanted to thank you again. I'm the novice who came up Thursday. You were everything I could have imagined in a professional guide and more (sense of humor too). Your flies worked so well and looked so tasty I almost (accidentally) swallowed one myself! What did you shoot that afternoon? If you get down to Albuquerque, look me up. I am in "striking" distance to the UNM South Course. You get to keep my golf balls if you get a hole in one! Great web site too! Regards Mike Marek
Hi Andy, Thanks for the instruction. You are a true pro on the San Juan. The training on Thursday was very informative. Mike and I fished Friday and Mike caught a fish on his own in the kiddie pool and was very happy. He wished he still had you at his side to teach him. I fished the area above the kiddie pool to the upper flats and sight fished. I caught fish in every spot I fished. I look forward to hiring you again for more instruction. By the way, of the bakers dozen flies you sold me, I only have five left. The trout destroyed them! I also couldn't use the tail grasp technique you use for holding a fish. They slipped out of my grip. What am I doing wrong? I think should have worn my 1/2 finger gloves to get a better grip. Is that the trick? Gary
Hi Andy My brother (Dan) and I often talk about our fly fishing trip with you this past July. I had the opportunity to fish up in the Sierra's more than I ever have in the past. Each time I went out I seemed to catch more fish. Each time I remembered more of the techniques you taught us, unfortunately I do not remember everything. Unfortunately our fishing season has come to an end in the Sierra's but now that the season is over I want to refresh myself with your techniques. I would like to order your video. Please e-mail me the ordering procedure or call me at 909-. By the way are you still working on your book and if so when will it be available I certainly would like to order a copy as well. Well Andy I hope to hear from you soon by e-mail or phone. I hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Paul Diaz
Andy Scott would like to know how to get your video, so let us know. Also just wanted to tell you what a great fishing day we had on Saturday with you. I must tell you that I just nailed them on Sunday. Anyway that is due to the time we spent with you on Saturday. Look forward to seeing you again, hope you have a wonderful holiday season! Anne
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