A Fiddler, Flies, Coffee and Friendship

   Griffith’s Gnats, Woolly Buggers, and Missy D’s were tied today to the accompaniment of fiddle, bodhran, and guitar.  3 tiers, Twitch, Dave, and Jackfish Kate, were warmed with coffee, music, and shared friendship today at Java Java Café in Davenport, IA. 

   Tossing emails to and fro earlier this week, local folk musician, Joe Nobiling and and yours truly (Twitch), shared opinions and YouTube links on artists such as the Avett Brothers, TxT, Tashina Claridge, and James Bryan.  Naturally, this evolved into comments about fly fishing and Hayward, WI.  I invited Joe & his fiddle to the coffee shop and, if he wanted, I would also help him ‘tie one on’.

   I tried not to become too hopeful, but it is always a pleasure to listen to friend Joe play the fiddle.  Well, I became positively loud and gleeful when our mutual friend John Kinser –bodhran in hand, walked in the door.  Did Christmas come early?  Not one gift but two!  Joe and his wife, Kathy, arrived soon after.  

     Following introductions between fly anglers, musicians, & Java Java owner Daron, we dabbled in talk about tying and music.  John, Joe, and Kathy were all given the opportunity to tie a fly, but they preferred to watch, then partake in what they came to do.  Both groups delved into their individual passions, but on a cold December Saturday a bridge was formed and we were able to enjoy and appreciate each other’s artistry.

   Jackfish Kate and I had arrived that morning during the ‘coffee rush hour’.  Joe and Kathy arrived as the café was quieting down, and then Jackfish and I closed the place down.  Prior to our leaving, Sam the ever-friendly barista, filled our bellies with delicious Thai chicken vegetable soup and oriental chicken wraps.  I’d only tied 4 Missy D nymphs while Jackfish had tied and then filled a small container with the tiny Griffith’s Gnats.  However, it was one of the most enjoyable ‘tie one on’ days I’ve had at the coffee shop.  I hope the others felt similarly. 

   Due to the holidays, the next possible tying day at Java Java would be Saturday, Jan 7^th.  I hope my musician friends return and maybe then they will share my vise and my vice.  I’ll bring a fly rod, too.  If anyone wants to brave the cold, we can head outside for impromptu casting lessons.  Again, all are welcome to ‘tie one on’ at the coffee shop.  I’ll keep ya posted about future tying dates!  ~Twitch (Sat, Dec. 10, 2011)