May is for Fishing
Meet the Emerger Bag
I’m very excited about this new project I worked on with Emerger: my dream fishing bag.
Here’s the story. The first Emerger bag I saw was on a guide in Wyoming. It was heavy canvas, well-worn and looked great. It was clearly made by a passionate person who had put thought and care into what he was doing. I knew I had to get one.
There was a phone number on the website and I called it and was surprised when Chris himself answered. This was not only the founder—he makes these great bags too. Suddenly we were talking about details of the bag he would make for me. It was rare and refreshing to be connected to the person who created the bag and built it too.
The Cameron Side bag arrived and I loved it (I swapped in a green ribbon on mine)—it’s been with me every time I fish my home water in the Catskills. Then I loved it so much I brought it everywhere I fished—from Patagonia to Wisconsin. As a bag lover and bag obsessive, I thought with a few slight adjustments it would be even easier to travel with: a lighter strap, a slightly streamlined silhouette and just make it all green, since I love that color.
That’s The Traveler Side Bag, which is perfect for the angler on the move. It has all of the character which makes the Emerger bags special: the heavy waxed canvas that ages so well, the brilliant net slot and the side pockets that seem to perfectly hold rolls of tippet or floatant. Though they have been known to also carry a can of bad beer.
It was great to work with Chris on this project, though he did all the heavy lifting. It’s rare to have a connection with somebody who makes something so thoughtful and so well. This brings a lot of my interests together: fishing, bags, heavy canvas and people who make things themselves. I’m happy this bag is out in the world and on the water.
The fishing season begins in April, but it gets serious in May. The trees in the Catskills come to life, the days get longer and it’s a pleasure to get on the water. Here are some fishing pieces over the years to get you in the mood.
I hope you saw the Big Japan Guide earlier this week. That’s just about everything I know about one of my favorite places. Hotels, ryokans, bars, restaurants, stores, tactics and details that might be helpful when you need a train ticket in Kyoto or cash near a 7-11.
A few things are going on in New York right now. Withnail & I, my favorite film, is showing at IFC. And it’s wild to finally see it on the big screen.
Independent a really good art fair is on at Spring Studios. Lots of good work and some really impressive paintings too.
Somehow I missed the new William Boyd novel, Gabriel’s Moon. As soon as I got it then I settled in last weekend and read it in two days. One of his best in years. He’s so good with pacing, plot and historical detail. You might also want to read The New Confessions, another Boyd classic.
Getting ready for more playoff basketball in New York and beyond.
Have a good weekend!
So the bags have sold out. If you still want one there will be a pre-order and Chris will make it for you. Yes, you'll have to wait (I waited for my first Emerger bag!). Details to come, watch this space!
Loved loved Gabriel's Moon....