Fishing with my father is a rare thing. He lives on the other coast
and between illnesses and house-buying and the sort of obstructions to
fishing Life throws in the way, I haven't been out to see him and go
fishing since August 2002.

Now I've got the tickets and the time and I'm headed west the week
between Christmas and New Year's. I'd like some advice on generalities
before I pack. We'll stop at a fly shop for specifics and flies when
we get there. I'll only have one day to fish, I'll be without a boat
and the base of operations will be the west side of the Tacoma
Narrows.

First, what fish will be active and what will be in season? I know
chrome is a possibility and chrome is really, really cool, but what
are the options?

Second, do I need more clothing? For winter fishing in the
Mid-Atlantic, I usually use a pair of Polypro longies under
flannel-lined jeans in my beathables, Smartwool socks and liner socks
and a Goretex parka with shirts to match the weather.

And last, I'm only a budding gear whore, so I have a limited rod
inventory. Which should I bring? 7'-4" four weight two-piece, 9' six
weight four-piece or 9' nine weight two piece. All of them? Can I get
by with just the six? Is it going to be a national security issue if I
try to fly with a two-piece nine footer? The damn thing is nearly five
feet long in the case.

Anyway, I promise to provide as poignant and funny a trip report as I
am able to write, regardless of fish caught and whiskey sipped.

Thanks,

Steve