Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

I had the honor of meeting Flyguy today, for a very important exchange. My greenbacks for a custom crappie pole he made for me. Leo wanted to ship it to me, but I suggested I drive to his town to pick it up and meet him. He countered with meeting half way, an hour and a half drive for each of us. My wife and I had a nice drive to northern Iowa, following the route she took to get to college many years ago. (She is 11 months older than me, so I can say that. As long as she doesn't read this post!)

We arrived at Carrie's Cafe about 10 minutes early. Before we even park, my phone rings. "This is Leo. I must have taken a wrong turn, I'm in Prarie Du Chein Wisconsin! I'm still coming, but it will be a while." (Must have been heading for OJ's house.) Sorry Leo, had to put that part in!

We looked at the distance he had to travel and decided we had time to drive around Beckie's old campus about 15 miles away. Another nice drive, and fond memories were revived. Made it back about 15 minutes ahead of Leo. He presented me with the piece of artwork he made and bought us lunch! We had lots of great conversation and I can tell you he is as fantastic a guy in person as he is on the stage.

I'm glad I made the decision to pick up the rod, and thank you Leo for lunch and a wonderful rod.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

That is one very beautiful rod. I like the lace work on the rod, it will strengthen the butt. I don't know if that was intended but believe it will help. Just Sayin....RJS

Ponchobuck Loc: South Central Pa

Sounds like a good time was had and that is one sweet looking rod.

Gordon Loc: Charleston South Carolina

Nice looking rod Farmer. Great story also. Thanks for sharing

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

That's great Myron, I'm happy to hear that you and Leo got to meet in person. Also glad that you both had good enough weather to make the trip. I got to meet a fellow Stager, MuskyHunter (Frank) last month, and it's great to put a face and personality on the people we've been talking with every day.
Leo that's a beautiful rod, you are a true craftsman.
I'm looking forward to meeting more of our compadres at our M&G next month.

Jarheadfishnfool Loc: Woodlake/Tulare ,Ca.

That is what this Fishing Stage Forum is all about you young Men! Such a nice photo of you both,, awesome,,,,,!👍👍🤙🤙

OJdidit Loc: Oak Creek Wisconsin

Don’t worry, I would have given Leo a Miller Lite and sent him back your way if he made it this far. 😜
That is a beautiful rod and I am sure we want to see a picture of the first fish you catch with it!

Grumpy Loc: San Luis Obispo CA

Beautiful Rod, and sounds like a nice little road trip, Keep the rod bent and line tight.

Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

Thanks, Robert. I love it. Especially the portion above the reel where you can put your thumb on the rod to feel those light bites.

Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

Thanks Poncho.

Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

Thanks Gordon. It was such a great day I wanted to share it.

Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

Will do, OJ. I kinda hate to take it to my pond, first fish would probably be a 5 inch crappie.

Iowa Farmer Loc: Iowa City Iowa

Thanks Grumpy. It is head, shoulders and down to the ankles above anything than I have ever owned.

bknecht Loc: Northeast pa

That is way too cool and what a unique rod, absolutely beautiful Fly. I’m thinking a “slime dog” should be the first caught on your masterpiece. I know how much you love them.

Billycrap2 Loc: Mason county,W(BY GOD) Virginia, 🇺🇸🦅

Glad to hear you both got together and congratulations on building a beautiful rod Thank for the story and pictures 👍🏽👍🏽🎣🎣🎣🐠🐠🐟🐟🐋🐋🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅