[ezypikns]

I learned to use a fly rod (how well is certainly up for debate) when I was 12. I'm 60 now. You would think that I might have encountered the answer to my question before now, but I've lived in Texas all my life, and never even fished for trout until a few years ago (hatchery fish only).

I'm going to Yellowstone NP in late June. I noticed that only barbless hooks are allowed in the park. Can I smash the barb on existing flies or do I have to purchase flies with barbless hooks?

Thanks

[Greenwood]

Anywhere that I fished that required 'barbless' allowed the barb to be smashed down. I'm guessing that would be fine in YS as well. Sure would limit your hook selection otherwise! Have a great trip!

[liv2fish]

You should be all set if you just pinch the barb down.

[ezypikns]

Just what I was looking for. Thanks!

[Silver Doc]

A little hint that I learned from Lefty Kreh. When you crush the bard don't use the pliers over the point, but use it on the side of the hook. Using it over the hook you'll find that it will snap the hook. Hope this helps Frans S.

[Silver Doc]

I meant using the pliers over the tip will cause the tip to break. Sorry. S.D.

[wlb06]

Silver Doc,

Thats still not very clear what you are talking about.. can you explain that again???

sorry

[Silver Doc]

Slide the point of your pliers past the barb and then close firmly. Don't clamp down at right angles to the hook. Hope this helps. S.D.

[wlb06]

Originally Posted by Silver Doc

Slide the point of your pliers past the barb and then close firmly. Don't clamp down at right angles to the hook. Hope this helps. S.D.

lol, i do know how to de-barb, im just trying to understand what you are saying. the problem is, you say right angles but which way is the hook facing/????

[Nooksack Mac]

You can do it either way, with the pliers' jaws parallel to or 90 degrees from the hook point. But you have to be careful to keep the jaws in the same plane as the point, esp. with small hooks, or the point can easily be broken off.

And you have to flatten the barb clear to the hook shank, not just partway. Here in WA, wardens test the barb with fine cloth. If the barb snags the cloth, you get to explain yourself in court.