Distinctly Montana Magazine

N O R M A N M A C L E A N S P E C I A L I S S U E 2 3 over green tree branches, but they were expensive. However, fly lines were still made of braided horsehair and attached to the tip of the rod. The newly-created dry flies were dabbed on the surface or allowed to ride the stream's current. However, although the creation of dry flies proved popular, a problem soon surfaced. A dry fly must stay dry to attract fish, and the dry flies of the era quickly became water-logged and sank. A number of solutions were devised; par- affin dissolved in kerosene, and vaseline dissolved in gasoline were tried. The fly was treated with the floatant, and the carrier allowed to evaporate. If not all of the carrier evaporated, an oily slick often surrounded the fly, although it's reported that the fish didn't seem to mind. Braided silk lines became available in the early 19th century and quickly replaced horsehair lines. But silk lines presented the same problem as dry flies. Keeping them afloat was a challenge. Silk lines sank quickly if not dressed with some kind of water-resistant product. Various things were tried to overcome this issue, from grease rendered from animals to concoctions of petrochemicals. Nevertheless, no matter how well they were dressed, silk lines took on water like a leaky boat. They had to be pampered more than a newborn baby (pun intended). And the line had to be dried regularly. However, the invention of silk lines allowed the creation of longer lines. Rods lengths were increased to 8-11' to accom- modate the longer silk lines available. Fly fishers desired longer lines yet, but how to handle lines that could stretch to 20' or more? A 20' fly rod was just a bit unwieldy. The fly fishing reel as we know it today was invented in the latter part of the 19th century and now came into wide use. The first fly fishing reels were simple line holders. They often rotated Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage, home equity and credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2021 U.S. Bank 384105c 2 /21 usbank.com/mortgage Call today to learn more. The right mortgage supports your homebuying goals and fits your long-term financial strategy. We're here to provide you with a convenient, personalized way to purchase or refinance your home. Work with a mortgage lender from your neighborhood. KIMBERLY MACDONALD Mortgage Loan Officer Six 24th Street Billings, MT 59102 Phone: 406.655.1699 Cell: 406.861.0052 kimberly.macdonald@usbank.com NMLS # 470804 MIKE L. RAETHER MIKE L. RAETHER

• Cover