So long, and thanks for all the fish
Sad news. Last night, after a hospitalization of several weeks, Jack finally lost his protracted battle with lung cancer. He was in bed resting comfortably, attended by good friends. Outside his window the first snow of the season was silently falling.
Visiting hours will be held the evening of Wednesday December 9 in East Boston. A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday December 10 at Saint John’s Episcopal Church in Winthrop MA. Read full details on the Ruggiero-Mazzarella funeral home web site.
Jack meant so much to so many of us. For his part, of his friends and fans he always said, “I’m the richest man I know.” Over the years there were so many stories written by those friendships: funny, warm, inspiring, head-shakingly amazing, and even a few death-defyingly nuts. Here’s hoping you’ll share your own thoughts or experiences with Jack in the Comments below (posted comments will appear after a brief delay).
Goodbye, buddy. You’ve gone on ahead. Most likely you’re already scouting the water, noting the currents and structure. So that when finally we catch up you’ll just point to a spot and say, “There. Cast your fly there.”
Welcome to 
Captain Marcia Foosaner says:
December 6th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
You will forever be remembered in my boat for the only person to sing Rock n’ Roll music, songs that nobody else seems to know(well maybe Dale remembered some of them) all the way back to the ramp.
I am glad to have met you Jack; Tight lines until . . .
Captain Marcia, Stuart Florida.
Frank says:
December 6th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Thank you for everything Jack. All of your knowledge, dedication, and love for fishing will be missed. I thought for sure I would get to meet you some day. Sorry I wasn’t able to in this life. Cheers to a great man!
Frank
Hugo Williams says:
December 6th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
I called Jack some years ago, within a week of moving to Boston from London, and quickly met up in his old pre-Winthrop digs – instantly recognizable by the waders drying over the porch fence. Straight away Jack was kind, welcoming and fun. He was a master. His “Fish like a Predator” class – 4 hours of deep insight and appalling puns, was without question the highest value experience I ever paid for. Jack was a canny and wise old hand, good company and instantly both likeable and memorable.
I am richer for knowing him; we are all richer for his life and expertise.
Tight lines, Jack. God bless you.
Hugo
Mike Long says:
December 6th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
You will be missed. You encouraged, helped and taught so many. I was lucky enough to have met you and can be counted as one of those you helped and taught.
RIP Jack.
Joey Analetto says:
December 6th, 2009 at 9:20 pm
I first met Jack at a uft meeting about fifteen years ago I was just starting to tie flies. He showed me a lot of simple easy ways to manipulate material to do what i wanted it to do. he was always very helpful when I asked him about how to do something. I fondly remember him showing me how to tie a sparrow nymph and gurgler. He was definitely one of a kind he died too soon and he left a great legacy to the rest of us.
Tight lines forever Jack!
Marty Seldon says:
December 7th, 2009 at 1:16 am
In the rough and tumble 1970′s while attending FFF Conclaves in West Yelowstone, Jack took Charlie Weidman, Karl Glander, and I up Duck Creek several times with the bears and the berries. Jack always made us wear bells that seemed to work……The start of a long time friendship. I saw Jack in Idaho a few years ago and it seemed as if the years compressed into months. Old friend, go with God!
Gareth Jones says:
December 7th, 2009 at 5:34 am
How could I ever forget rowing you across Boca Paila in a coca cola inflatable boat when 6 permit showed themselves in front of us…the image of you sat between my legs trying to make a quick cast will last with me until the next time we get to laugh about it.
For someone I spent relatively little time with, you have certainly provided many of my memories.
Thank you Jack
Bill Womack says:
December 7th, 2009 at 7:17 am
Jack’s fly tying helped so many of us catch that 20 inch Brown we had looked for soo long!! I was able to teach many of his flies over the years to new students and always looked forward to the next new creation he would be presenting at the michigan fly fishing expo, I also have a copy of his book on flies
with him on the cover. Jack, get the net heres one for you!!!!
Pat Geyer says:
December 7th, 2009 at 9:08 am
As a newly wed flyfisher woman, how was I going to impress my flyfisher husband, Carl, if I couldn’t even manage crossing the bloody Madison River during the low-water summer months of July and August! With Jack on one side and my husband on the other, they pulled all 100 lbs of me across, legs close to horizontal and feet almost out of the water behind me. Finally, great fishing…I learned on that trip how to fish for my own soul and not for someone else’s livelihood. Thank you, Jack
I’m thinking that you’ll be coming back to visit all of us as a fish first, right? Let us know what kind, though, Jack, ok?
With love always.
Brad & Sandy Wilson says:
December 7th, 2009 at 9:33 am
My fondest memories were of the time at the Double Tree in Somerset,NJ {International Fly Tying Symposium}. My wife and I were enjoying a few glasses of wine in the pub and Jack stopped by and chatted awhile, while chatting a song came on that Jack said was a great one to dance to, well since I don’t really dance and my wife does Jack asked if I cared if he danced with my wife. I said no go right ahead, maybe I could learn something. And away they went,he was a great dancer. They really had people looking! Thanks Jack for the dance tips and the memories!
Marcos Enriquez says:
December 7th, 2009 at 9:44 am
Jack, I will miss your insight on flytying. I was hoping to catch you again at any of the tying programs you were going to be at, but now I’ll just have to wait. God Bless and tight lines always….
Katya Bowen says:
December 7th, 2009 at 10:54 am
One of the sweetest men I ever met in the world of fly fishing, Jack will be sorely missed by all of us. Jack, the next striper is for you.
BILLYBBUBBLES says:
December 7th, 2009 at 11:01 am
SOME YEARS AGO JACK SPENT A WEEKEND HERE IN MICHIGAN EXHIBITING HIS SPECIAL SKILLS WITH HOOK AND FEATHERS AND GENERAL GOOD HUMOR.FOLLOWING THE SATURDAY PROGRAM A FEW OF US ENJOYED A VERY RELAXED DRINKS AND DINNER FULL A FISH TALES FROM AROUND THE WORLD.WE SAID “GOOD NIGHT” ABOUT TEN.
IN THE SAME HOTEL THERE WAS A WEDDING IN THE BALLROOM….JACK MUST HAVE HEARD THE MUSIC…..DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY(ANOTHER OF HIS PRODIGIOUS TALENTS) TILL THE BAND QUIT AT TWO.
THE FLY TYING PROGRAM SCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY STARTED A LITTLE LATE………….
Karen and Scott says:
December 7th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Our heart aches today but will be forever filled with fond memories of you. You were truly a kind man, always thoughful and remembering, always smiling, always full of wonderful stories, and always surrounded by beautiful women.
Your love for life and the world around you was inspirational. There will never be another Jack.
Sleep in Peace.
Carl Geyer says:
December 7th, 2009 at 11:51 am
A cool October morning, Ken Miyata, Patricia and I drove to Baker’s Hole thirty years ago. A VW van was in the first parking place. Ken knocked on the rear window. Nothing moved. I knocked on the driver’s side. Nothing moved. We all shouted, “Jack”. Soon Jack appeared already dressed in waders, a flannel shirt and opening the rear of the VW van, pulled his rod already rigged and ready to go fishing. It was 5 AM and Jack had been dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Dum dum, the resident grizzly passed us as we headed upstream to fish the Madison near the Beaver ponds behind Yellowstone dump. One pond was a jewel with large cruising Browns and Rainbows. On the first cast Jack hooked a very large Brown. A gentle mist hovered over the pond with yellow alders draping the background. The next Brown will be Jack.
Chris Reeves says:
December 7th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I met Jack every year at the Fly Tying Symposium in Somerset New Jersey since I started crossing the pond. He was unfailingly kind, funny and a great source of knowledge and inspiration.
We all missed him this year and I know I speak for all the UK fly tiers and Jack’s friends when I say that he will stay in our memories for a long long time.
If angels have feathers in their wings I bet there are new patterns emerging already !!
frank in Nahant says:
December 7th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
So sad to hear about Jack.
Fished with him and MikeQ many times when I lived in Winthrop. He was a real character and always friendly and open about the fishing spots and ready to help. His great sense of humor will be missed at the fishing shows.
frank in Nahant, MA
ashley strutt says:
December 7th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
I met Jack several years ago when he tied at the Partridge flytying days in the UK. Not only did he inspire my tying but his words and advice on travelling on a budget also inspired me to travel.
Thank You Jack
Ashley
Larry Solomon says:
December 7th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Well, Ists a sad day…. I knew Jack fondly for about 30 years… He was one of the great innovators of Fly tying creativity…. Using materials for patterns not before popular…. and the flies worked. What I loved about Jack was his enthusiasm and love for the tying and angling “games”…. I periodically called him for ideas, and he always had them.
We have lost a unique individual…. I’m sure he’s creating something new, wherever he is
He will be missed.
Larry Solomon
regis fournigault says:
December 7th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
I saltwater flyfishing european sea bass with jack’s streamer since 1988 june when I see Malcolm Tiki Shewan on a bridge in the Elorn River (the best salmon river in France)
In 1997 Jack live in France during a week and I fishing with Jack ( my best week)
During this week we live in the Morbihan arbor (very good for european sea bass in june) and in Vannes town Jack see an old sculpture with the right hand in the west way. He say me: Pull my finger!
I take his finger and and and….. I cannot tell you! Since this joke Jack and I have very good relation ship about fly tying and saltwater fly fishing
bye bye Jack…. and pull my finger!
regis from France (sorry for my puzzle language)
Corey Cate says:
December 7th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Our sympathies to the family and all who grieve his loss. We westcoasters use the Gartside Gurgler in many variations with huge success for Striped Bass. I appreciate Jack’s wide and creative contributions to the sport.
I’ll toast him next time I cast one.
Corey Cate
Livermore CA
Bob Triggs says:
December 7th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Fair Winds dear Jack. The most wonderfully artful and flambouyant, colorful and creative, witty and bizarre fly fisher that ever lived. You lived well and made us all the better for knowing you. I cherish the memory. Peace good brother, Peace.
Corey Cate says:
December 7th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
Toasting to Jack after the next cast of a Gartside Gurgler.
Steve McGowen says:
December 7th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Fond memories of fishing the Susquehana river for smallmouths with Jack as well as terrorizing a few waitresses at lunch counters up and down the river. Hope to meet again in the next one and pick up where we left off…….
Charlie Dibner says:
December 7th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Rest assured, there will be no end to Jack stories.
There are so few gems that sparkle as brightly under water as the do in hand but Jack was, indeed, one.
There are so few names that, once heard, bring a smile to one’s face and to one’s heart, but Jack’s was. indeed, one.
And, thoughts are rare that, once they are thought, bring music to one’s soul, but Jack’s music is one of those thoughts.
My eldest daughter was barely four . . . she was reaching up and I was reaching down to hold hands as we trundled through the Marlborough Exposition. Fly lines zipped to our right, closely knotted groups of big people clotted to our left.
She stopped, her tiny shoes bolted to to the floor. I looked down . . . her free hand covered her mouth which was agape with stuptification.
Her eyes were as wide as golfballs.
“Look, Daddy ! Look over there ! It’s Him, Daddy ! Over there !” “It’s Him Daddy ! From the magazine. The Guy on the Giraffe !It’s Him !” Her tiny finger pointed . . . to Jack . . . sitting under the lights tying Marabou Streamers.
TJP says:
December 7th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Jack, you were indeed a character, a gent and an intellect. Not only have I always enjoyed your flies and fishing lore, but we shared dinner several years back at the Flyfishing Show in Denver (Jan).
Great, thought provoking conversation and historical knowledge. Finally you went out for ‘desert’ and upon your return, you had a friend in tow. You were so kind as to help a street person out by walking back into the restaurant and taking up a collection for this guy so he might get a bite and a place to stay the night.
We’ve always appreciated you and looking for more in your likeness! Thanks for the memories and lessons.
Karl Glander says:
December 7th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
“I’d rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy”, were the first words I heard uttered by our mentor and dear buddy Jack while sitting in a bar at an FFF Conclave in the early 70′s. From the big browns of Montana’s Duck Creek, to the slab sized bluegill of the Hoosier state , to the gorgeous stripers caught on Mel’s boat-we’ve had a great run. Thank you for all you have done for all of us.
dan daly says:
December 7th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Remember buying my first sparrows and soft hackle streamers at Stoddards in Boston ; flies that worked so well it was spooky- that was my first introduction to Jack. Later met him at the Plough and Stars in Cambridge where I bartended. Always a character, always learned something about fly fishing from him. Thanks for everything Jack.
pittendrigh says:
December 7th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
I’d be happy to host this website, more or less forever, as way to keep
Jack’s flies published online. Send me email if you want http://www.jackgartside.com
to live on.
Tomonori Higashi says:
December 7th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
When I was fishing in Mongolia for taimen last autumn with a mutant Gurgler, I was thinking of you. I thought of you two days ago, when I tied a version of Gurgler for Japanese sea bass in front of students in a tying class. Although we met only once in person in New Jersey, you continued to be the inspiration for me. You inspired quite a few fishheads in Japan too. Thank you, Jack.
Doug Jones says:
December 7th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
I wish I had known you as well as others who have contributed to this collective sharing of grief. I enjoyed our discussions those years when there was a fly show in College Park and your teaching of your fly patterns. I’ll think of you often as I sit down at the vise or tie on one of your flies. Thank you and God Bless you.
Runar Warhuus says:
December 7th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Jack, You were a great man and a dear friend, a fly fishing and fly tying artist. I shall cherish for ever all our fishing trips together for salmon and trout here in Norway, and for bonefish, trout and stripers in the US, the fly tying events we attended, and your vast knowledge, competence and not least wit. I sensed a first warning when you were unable to realize your plans to visit us in Norway this summer. It was utterly devastating to receive the sad message of your passing away the very moment I was sitting down to write your birthday greeting. On the box with Soft Hackle Streamers you gave Cath when she was 7 and you stayed with us in Oslo in 1990, she wrote in golden letters: JACK TREASURE. With that short message I think she summed you up quite well. RIP, Runar
Lornce says:
December 7th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
My deepest condolences, I met Jack a number of years ago and bought a number of flies from him including sparrows and soft hackle streamers. I have never fished them but tied my own versions. He will be missed.
Mike Hogue says:
December 7th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
Jack once told me, I get about one or 2 good ideas a year ( fly tying) and I figure I’ve only had about 20 original ones. Too bad, we could use some more….. his jacket once cracked me up, I asked him if I could buy and cut it into pieces since it contained so many different fly tying materials stuck to it…..where to begin with more stories? They are endless.
Hope they have a nice stream, good smoke, nice drink and lots of trout where you are at now, you were one of kind!
Fin(n) says:
December 7th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
thank you for introduce me to the sun of flyfishing.
Best regards
Ted Murphy says:
December 7th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Jack Gartside has provided me with some of the best fishing memories I will take with me. He did it without us ever having met. I daresay, he will continue to do that until we do.
Ben Furimsky says:
December 7th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
Jack became a great friend and idol over the years I have known him. It both grieves me and honors me to be writing. After learning about Jack passing yesterday morning, I decided to go fishing in his honor. I wanted to wade as Jack preferred, but conditions sent me to the boat. In classic Jack style, the bildge pump was stuck on and killed the batteries. I had to rig a system up to charge the batteries and then cut the wires to shut the pump off. I finally made it out and was lucky enough to catch a few stripers in the remaining light. Thanks for enjoying the follies of the day with me Jack! I’ll miss you tying flies across the isle from me.
Sandy Wood says:
December 7th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Several years ago I took a fly tying class with Jack at his home, and a pre-requisite was to bring a fly you had tied, so Jack could get a sense of what he was dealing with. He stared at my royal coachman for a minute before asking ” what do you call this fly?” While I very much appreciated the classes then, they seem even more memorable today. Ave atque Vale.
Tony says:
December 7th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
“The season is ended. There was not enough of it; there never is.” Nick Lyons
On to your next season Jack.. May it be as you dreamed. The fly fishing world shutters at this loss but is thankful for all the lessons learned. We promise to leave the sport better than we found it. Your battle tested gurglers will be fished hard next season. They will all go in a blaze of glory. As all good gurglers should.
Bart says:
December 7th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
R.I.P. Jack…
You’ll be missed.
Joseph Torres from NY says:
December 7th, 2009 at 10:21 pm
it’s sad to hear about a Gartside’s passing. i never knew him well unlike some if you guys here. the first time i heard the name Gartside was my grandpa. he told me about Jack and showed me some of his flies and books. the first striper i have caught on a fly was on his Gurgler! I’ll remembered that day fondly and the fly of his legacy!
Jack I’ll never know you personally but I’ll remember you through your flies
and stories. Go up and scout the skies for fish and wet a line for me!
John says:
December 7th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Jack – I will never ever forget the times working across the aisle from you at the Marlboro show all of those years and being thoroughly entertained by your talent as a tyer and as a person. Your stories, your wisdom and your personality has touched all of us. My prayers go out to you and your friends and family. Tight lines to you always……..
Michael Bednar, New Zealand says:
December 7th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Jack was on a mission; he wanted to enjoy life and to fish. Both of these endeavors resulted in producing a blithe spirit. I literally bumped into Jack on a bonefish flat on Grassy Key; he, smoking his Chesterfields and sharing his knowledge of bonefish and I , slowly but surely, realizing that I had bumped into someone quite remarkable. He taught me (and how many others?) everything I know about fly-tying. He would fish himself to exhaustion when he visited the Keys but always made time to discuss fishing, fly-tying, literature, music with me and anyone who cared to sit down and have a chat. A river ran through him as well as bonefish flats and I was enriched by knowing him. Adios amigo,
Steve Bush says:
December 8th, 2009 at 12:22 am
Jack did several tying demonstrations at UFT Rhode Island over the years and he was not only a wonderful and creative tyer, he was also an excellent teacher. He will be sorely missed. Tight lines wherever you are Jack.
Chris Brown says:
December 8th, 2009 at 12:38 am
Jack,
Thank you so very much for the profound inspiration as an angler, as a fly tyer and as a person. I will never forget wading out on grassy key, in front of the golden grouper…….or casting to 3am tarpon at Vaca Cut, or Key Colony……The time that we had just ended our day on the north shore, when stripers started busting up and down the beach……we hussled back down from the car and when i mentioned that i was going to be late for a date i had that night in Boston you replied “Chris, what are you doing? You NEVER make plans on a fishing day!” I cant thank you enough for the influence youve had on me. Rest in Peace my friend. Cheers!!!!
Deidra Cooke says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:48 am
Jack took his passion – and made it happen!!!!! A man who was a great example of living your dream!!!!!
“Though water may be muddied, it will again become clear.
Though the moon may hide behind the clouds, it will surely reappear.”
“Just as flowers open up and bear fruit, just as the moon appears and invariably grows full, just as a lamp becomes brighter when oil is added, and just as plants and trees flourish with rain, so will human beings never fail to prosper when they make good causes.” Nichiren
Jack watered, nurtured, and was a good friend to many!!!! I hold in high esteem my friend Jack
no name from japan says:
December 8th, 2009 at 6:18 am
You had a big influence on Japan.
Thank you very much.
Even the heaven , please in fine.
sorry , my english is poor.
Simon Graham says:
December 8th, 2009 at 7:00 am
R.I.P Jack
Brian says:
December 8th, 2009 at 8:04 am
Jack taught me how to tie some of his flies at his house in Winthrop then took me fishing in Boston Harbor. I’ll never forget his generosity
and patience. I will think of you every time I fish the HABA.
Lynda from Idaho says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:41 am
I met Jack several years ago at the Fly Fishing Show in Somerset. I remember watching him at the Double Tree Inn and being impressed by his elegant dance moves and smooth flirting techniques! He wasn’t just a great fly tying artist! A character like no other….
Iain Sorrell says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:48 am
In the playoffs for the 2004 World Series the Red Sox had just lost their third game in a row to the Yankees. As my son Euan (then aged 11) and I solemnly watched the broadcast of the players leaving the field at Fenway the phone rang – it was Jack sounding remarkably up beat.
“Hey is Euan still up? Put him on”
Euan’s face began to brighten and after putting down the phone he said “Jack says not to worry. We’ve got them right where we want them and the Sox are going to win four in a row. This is the year Euan, This is THE year!”
Jack brought so much light into our lives – damn we’re going to miss him!
Kelly L says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:58 am
I will sure miss Jack. His work was just incredible. I have been tying flies for less than two years ago now. His flies have been such an inspiration to me. The more I have read and known about Jack, the more I admire him. The fly tying world lost a great one.
Betsy says:
December 8th, 2009 at 10:01 am
How sad dear Jack. I was preparing to wish you a happy birthday and saw your obit. RIP first friend. B
Glenn & Andrea Lyn Van Benschoten says:
December 8th, 2009 at 10:20 am
I hope you knew how much you were loved, admired and respected Jack. You will truly be missed by many, including Glenn and me.
May you always have perfect casts!
Andrea & Glenn
John Wihl says:
December 8th, 2009 at 10:25 am
As one of the thousands who knew you not, but have been forever inspired through your accomplishments, I salute you. Thanks for leaving so much behind for us to enjoy. The great ones always do.
Alan and Angus at Broadside says:
December 8th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
We first met Jack at the first of the Northeast Fly Fishing shows. If
flyfishers have a unicorn rating in the history of flyfishing, Jack is
one. Screaming Reels, Alan and Angus
Enrico Puglisi says:
December 8th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
Jack,
I admire you from day one I got to know you because you would tell as it is to every one of us and most at all you did enjoy your life the way you want to; fishing, fishing and more fishing……. I could live yet another life and still can’t catch up with you.
I will miss you my friend for all the teasing you give me on each and every show about my spaghetti and meatballs
Captain Lenny Moffo says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I’m very sorry to hear about this. Since I haven’t gone to any of the shows in quite awhile I had no idea that Jack was ill. I didn’t know Jack very well but what little I did know is that he was smart and funny. Two things that I prize in a person. Back when I used to do the shows, Jack was always very nice to me and fun to talk to.
Myself and everyone in the business will miss him greatly……………He was a real personality…………………….. Capt. Lenny ?
Davy Wotton says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
I has some great times with Jack when we worked at events in the UK and EU. Jack stayed with me at my home in Wales a couple of times, and l can tell you a few stories about his larks while he was there, Probably the best being the Penquin feathers, at the National Museum on Cardiff. Davy
Hans Weilenman, The Netherlands says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
I too will miss Jack, and will celebrate his memory, his whackyness, and overall joi de vivre.
Hans
Charles Jardine, UK says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
I am very very saddened by this news. Jack and I always seemed to “bump” into each other at airports all over the USA….I will truly, truly miss Jack.
I am sorry: another bright spark gone from an increasingly grey world.
Charles
KC Walsh, Simms says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:11 pm
This is terribly sad. I did not know Jack well, bu I’m very sorry.
Best,
K.C.
Mike Lawson, Henry's Fork AnglerIdaho says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Jack was a great guy. I didn’t spend a lot of time with him, especially in recent years but I always enjoyed visiting with him. He was ultra intelligent and had a wonderful sense of humor.
Mike
Rhea Topping says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
I’ll never forget Jack at Somerset crawling underneath the skirt of his show table to have a cigarette, and telling the folks gathered round that he was just going down to the basement for a moment …and they believed him!
Or at a dinner at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center when he got bored with our table and put mashed potatoes on the end of his nose! Or at San Mateo when they started playing 50′s music in our hotel lobby and he grabbed Lori Ann Murphy and me and started jitterbugging! We’ll miss you, Jack. You gave us all so much! Rhea
Weld Henshaw says:
December 8th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
I don’t fish and I only really spent time with Jack once, at his buddy Dale’s 60th birthday party. But Dale has told me a thousand stories, my favorite being when Jack was drinking while tying flies at a show. Unfortunately, he inhaled a fly. It wasn’t an easy problem to solve.
David Edwards says:
December 8th, 2009 at 3:15 pm
I never met Jack but was introduced to the Gurgler this year by a pal of mine… my first tying of this fly gave me the most intimate of strikes by a Northern Pike. Pure genius! My thoughts go out to all his family and friends at this sad time.
Martin Carranza says:
December 8th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
El Jacko, wherever you are now please, send me some of your constant joy and that ever present smile.
I don’t know how to express this in English so here it goes the only way I know:
El Jacko, el autentico Jacko, te voy a extrañar Loco. Nos vemos en el mas alla, que si no existe vos lo vas a crear.
Un fuerte abrazo, mi querido amigo.
Marteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeen
marshalld says:
December 8th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Jack, you were an inspration and flame-keeper for all of us who are afflicted with fly fihing obsession…we will carry on but we will all miss you and your stories and innovations
Anonymous says:
December 8th, 2009 at 4:34 pm
In gratitude for a man who encouraged others to follow their heart no matter where it might lead them. Om shanti, shanti, shantihi
Jeffrey "The Riddler" Lopez says:
December 8th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
I’ll miss the many conversations with Jack and sharing a bite to eat at Hi-Tide restaurant. Beeps and waves around Winthrop, and sharing information about the bass.
I’m also thinking of Dave Skok. Thoughts go to you too bro.
Jeff
Steve Donaldson says:
December 8th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Jack is my fly fishing hero, he has done what most of us lack the courage to do.
I have known him for years but only through shows and the occasional banquet. I did attend a fly tying lesson with him at his house in Winthrop, it was a great experience. Several years back I ran into him in West Yellowstone. Truly a unique individual I will miss him very much.
See you up around the bend old pal.
Steve
Clive Mathias says:
December 8th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Jack was truly a legendary man.
noreen in breck says:
December 8th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
i will never forget the first time i met Jack. he was smoking outside the expo in denver as i was walking my dog. i pretty much bumped into him and he exclaimed with a gleam in his eye…..
“I had a dog like that once…… tasted real good!!!”
my horror turned to affection as i got to know Jack better that evening while drinking margaritas in a little mexican hole in the wall across from the expo..
i can still clearly hear his voice as he summed up fly fishing in a sentence: “there is world like no other…….”
i then realized that this was the second time our paths were to cross. i had met jack over 15 years earlier at an expo in boston where he was tying next to Gary.
i am grateful and honored to have met such a talented and wonderful individual. not to mention his gurgler kicks ass……….
his contribution to the world of fly fishing has been monumental and his legacy shall continue ….
tight lines my friend you will be missed.
Gary Borger says:
December 8th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
Jack was such a unique person in both his fishing and his personality. We first met many years ago at a campground just outside West Yellowstone. Jack had just taken a 25-inch brown on his Sparrow from the Madison, and when I saw the fly, I knew I was talking to a guy that understood big fish. His creative talents continued for the rest of his life, branching out to every species he sought.I shall always cherish my fond memories of my good friend.
A. K. Best says:
December 8th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
One of the reasons I enjoyed working the Fly Fishing Shows was to spend some time between show gigs gassing with Jack. He always had some bit of humor to share. It helped all those listening be aware that fly fishing and fly tying is supposed to be fun. I will miss the banter we exchanged. He was a damn good fly tyer!
Meredith Wilson says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
The sun was up, sparkling on Boston Bay, and Jack was hopping from foot to foot, anxious to get started on our day of striper fishing. “Can you join us for dinner when your done?”, asked my wife. “Oh, no, I will be way too tired!” Daily fishing was his job.
Side by side we fished that morning and afternoon. I stood where Jack stood, I used Jack’s flies, I cast as far as Jack. He caught three beauties, I caught none. What a knack!
I think of the days in Yellowstone when Jack, Charlie Weidman, Hugh McDowell, and Judith Dunham and I fished the Gallatin and beautiful Duck Creek. Jack always had leaky waders and that beat up old baseball cap. He was one of a kind. He will always be remembered.
barry jaye says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
i only knew jack for a few years, but a few years with jack was like a lifetime.we did not catch any fish on our last outing, but who cared, we were in the presence of a legend. the fishing world has lost an icon but his memory will not fade
Rick Ege says:
December 8th, 2009 at 9:21 pm
I first met Jack when the Fly Tying Show was at the Hilton in Secaucus. I took his fly tying class there, and some years later traveled up to New Boston, NH for one of his weekend courses at Hunter’s Angling Supplies.
We only wet a line together once, but but between his flies and stories it was a great day. As I sit here I have a pitcure Jack on the wall with his sparrow fly collection surroundinthe picture. He wil be missed…tightlines Jack.
Ron Mason says:
December 9th, 2009 at 12:46 am
I never met you Jack, but my boxes are filled w/ your flies. I loved your books and your patterns, they have added a lot to my fishing. Your passing leaves a very large hole in this sport. A real giant.
Chris Murray says:
December 9th, 2009 at 5:13 am
Jack your an inspiration to me in every respect. thanks for the intro to the infamous golden grouper. and the fun times we had in all the other fabulous locations we would meet up at. I’ll see you on the other side.
Michael Abramowitz says:
December 9th, 2009 at 6:19 am
Rest in Peace,Jack.
You taught us all so much about the sport.It was always a pleasure to watch you tie at shows and listen to your stories which were full of humor and wit.Jack’s mind was always full of creative ideas.
Thanks for all the memories.
Mike Abramowitz,
Potomac, Maryland
Richard from Boston says:
December 9th, 2009 at 8:19 am
I met Jack at UFT in Woburn. He was comical and witty. He had the most entertaining presentations of any person that I knew…I will miss his wonderful presence at the meetings and shows, he was a great man, and a good friend. I learned a lot from him. My sympathys to his family.
Tight lines, and many thanks…
Richard
David Gauduchon says:
December 9th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Not easy to go out unhurt of a meeting with Jack! I wrote, some years ago, a portrait on him in the French magazine “Pêche Mouche” that I had entitled: ” jack Garstside, the Van Gogh of the fly fishing! ” Colourful, visionary and free, here is the magnificent memory which I shall keep of him through our numerous fishing trips.
Good journey Jack.
Dick Talleur says:
December 9th, 2009 at 9:46 am
Jack, you gave us all so much; your humor, your generosity, your excellent fly designs. Thanks, and I hope there’s great trout fishing wherever you are.
Pip Winslow says:
December 9th, 2009 at 9:55 am
“20 years from now you will be more dissapointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bow lines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Mark Twain
Thank you Jack for your thirst for life and sharing this wonderful way of living with us. You will be with us forever!
Van Blauvelt says:
December 9th, 2009 at 10:05 am
I was lucky enough to get paid to tie with Jack the first time we met. To say that his instruction and patterns have a huge influence on how I fish is an understatement. I have literally tied thousands of his Soft Hackle Streamers and presented them just about every student and guiding client I have ever had. I will miss seeing Jack at the Somerset and Marlboro shows where we often shared a story or joke over a cocktail or three…. Peace be with you Jack.
Rob Lewis says:
December 9th, 2009 at 10:49 am
my dear friend uncle jack, “may your beer be cold, and your flats be warm ” RIP
Chris Windram says:
December 9th, 2009 at 11:33 am
Jack, you inspired thousands of fly tiers, including myself, to break through the bounds of tradition, to simplify, and to always bring a fresh set of eyes to fly tying and fly fishing. Even more importantly, you showed us how to be light-hearted and have fun in whatever we do. You stood forward to lead the way for so many of us interested in becoming better anglers, and at the same time, reminded us of that most important lesson – not to take ourselves too seriously. I salute you, Jack; you will not be forgotten by those who cast or tie flies – you stand among the finest emissaries of our sport, and your memory and example will continue to light the way for those who follow in your wake, for years and years to come.
Don Forté says:
December 9th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Before tying and fishing with Jack, I remember admiring at Stoddards a #18 elk hair caddis that he had tied. It may have been the most elegantly tied fly I have ever seen—so perfect in its utter simplicity. Everything counted. I think his life was like that too.
Guille (Gigi) says:
December 9th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Dear Jack, whereever you are, you always will be with us. Like Martin says, I can say more in Spanish and you always understood me.
Yo no tuve la suerte de ser alumna de pesca, pero si de pasar horas contigo charlando en el Yacth Club de Revere. Tengo tantos recuerdos bellos en mi mente, tantas palabras bonitas tuyas… Ya te echo de menos y aunque estábamos lejos, siempre decíamos que nos encontraríamos en algún lugar, porque el mundo es muy pequeño para los aventureros.
Algún día nos volveremos a reunir y entonces quizás me enseñes a pescar igual que estarás haciendo allá en tu paraíso con los ángeles. !Qué suerte tienen ellos de tenerte! Seguro que no se aburrirán.
Como solíamos decir:… “Cheers and good adventures!!!”
Suzi Cummings says:
December 9th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Fishing with Jack in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho for several years were, without doubt, some of my more memorable years on a stream. Using a Gartside Hopper along the banks of the Snake River always brought in huge rainbows and endless hours of fun. Casting next to the likes of guys like Jack and Pete Laszlo made one realize that fly casting was truly an art that demanded years of practice and a sense of peace when standing in a trout stream.
I last visited with Jack when his dear friend Pete Laszlo was in the hospital and later passed away, you’re reunited with another fishing buddy . . . tight loops to both of you!
Michael J. Silfen says:
December 9th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
It’s a sad day. Fishing with Jack was just terrific. One time I went out with Jack and 3 other people right off Revere Beach and he had 4 of us on all at the same time! An unforgettable day. He will be missed. Tightlines to you Jack.
Mark Sofman says:
December 9th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
I only knew Jack through his books and his appearances on the fly tyers’ aisles at the shows. One of the greats and “great people” to boot. He’ll be missed.
Requiescat in pace.
Bob Rifchin says:
December 9th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Jack was one of a kind, never to be repeated and cast from a single use mold. Of this I’m sure … angels can no longer fly straight for they are missing feathers, and the devil himself is nursing sore spots where glowing hairs have been plucked out. Both adorn Jack’s new creations cast in heavenly waters where the wading is warm and fruitful.
TIM SEVERN says:
December 9th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Jack’s legacy will certainly live on through all the fly tyers he has influenced. I feel lucky to have a few of his tied flies in my collection. Please remember when tying such legendary Gartside flies, for personal use, gifts, or sale, that they are not just Gurglers or Sparrows, etc., but they are Gartside Gurglers and Gartside Sparrows. Sorry to all the lucky people who new Jack personally, he sounded like a great guy.
Steve Binckes says:
December 9th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
For me, one memory of Jack will be a phone call to him to ask where the book I ordered from him had got to… his reply was; I found it in the back of my cab… d’ya still want it?
It arrived a week later and reeked of stale cigarettes! God bless you Jack.
Charlie Place says:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
One of my fondest memories of Jack was when he was a guest speaker at our banquet and Expo. I happened to lucky enough to be Jacks contact with our club, the Connecticut Fly Fisherman’s Association. Jack agreed to teach two fly tying classes during our expo (we had arranged for one, but by popular demand we had to add a second class and increase the size of both classes, with Jacks okay of course. Anyway, periodically I would drop by the classes to see if everything was going well, which it was. Toward the end of the second class I checked in again, but on the way I stopped to use the bathroom room only to find more than a few chartreuse marabou feathers had somehow found their way in there, when I left the restroom, following the feather trail made, finding Jack’s class easy. I opened the door to the classroom, everyone was laughing hysterically and the place looked like big bird had crash landed in there. Everyone got much more than a fly tying lesson.
Later that evening Jack gave his presentation and during it asked everyone to ponder this question. “Do flamingos have Italians on there lawns?” Only Jack…………..
Bob…I doubt that the angels will ever be the same again…..nor will the devil.
So long Jack! “Cheers!” back at ya.
Harry Mayo says:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:15 pm
I had the good fortune to spent many days fishing with Jack on the Madison, Firehole, Henry’s Fork and other streams in the area in the ’70′s and 80′s. One thing I could count on is that Jack would invariably catch the largest fish of the day. Never failed. He will be greatly missed.
Bernie Hamill says:
December 9th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Jack made a believer out of me fishing Boston Harbor – catching a keeper on a sunny 90 degree day at noon! and trying to catch up with him as he would bound over rocks searching for fish. I was lucky he taught me a few patterns which is good because his originals are too perfect to fish with and I have kept them all!
Thanks Jack.
Johnny Lucid says:
December 9th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
The Sailor’s Paraphrase of the Twenty-third Psalm
The Lord is my pilot, I shall not drift.
He guides me across the dark waters.
He steers me through deep channels.
He keeps my log.
Yea, though I sail ‘mid the thunders
and tempest of life,
I shall dread no anger, for He is with me;
His love and His care, shelter me.
He prepares a quiet harbor before me.
He anoints the waves with oil
My ship rides calmly.
Surely sunlight and starlight
shall guide me on the voyage I take,
And I will rest in the heaven’s port forever.
http://www.appleseeds.org/Sailors_23rd-Psalm.htm
Jeffrey "The Riddler" Lopez says:
December 9th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Just got back from this evening’s service. A great showing for a great man. Jack’s fly box was on display as well as his well traveled and battered wading boots. There was a collage of photo’s and a video interview about Jack sharing his passion for fly fishing and fly tying and his good humor shined through. It was nice meeting Katie, Jacks relatives, childhood friends and fellow fisherman. Wonderful stories were shared about Jack as we joined together in prayer and celebrated Jack’s life. I’m grateful to have met him.
Phil Sheffield says:
December 9th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Of all the mentors in this sport we call flyfishing, Jack Gartside was one of my favorites. When it came to getting to a fishing destination he got the job done regardless of how much money lined his pockets. If there is a will, there’s a way. Quite a long time ago I asked Jack about his fishing experiences “on the cheap” in the Bahamas. He said to come up during a break in his fly tying class in Vernon, Ct. and have lunch. I drove to Vernon and bought Jack lunch. He had all the info I needed stored upstairs in his head and I was ready with a pen and notebook. Little did I know at the time that this visit with Jack would one of the most profound experiences of my life time. I followed through with his advice and thus, my obsession with bonefish began. It started on, of all places, North Andros Island in the Bahamas. He gave me exacting details of the flight connection, where to stay and locations of the nearest DIY flats. He also gave up a secret Tarpon spot for the “blustery days” where there was no wind. All I had to do was find it on my own and I did. If you search back a ways in the CTRI newsletters, the story and all of the splendid details of that trip unfold there in an article. All told, said and done, I believe I did ten days door to door for under $800! I had the will and a budget and Jack helped me find the way. Thanks Jack. Good on you mate and God bless.
Joe Pheifer says:
December 9th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Jack gave a very informative and entertaining presentation at the fly fishing club I belong to and I saw him at various shows–the last time at the Bear’s Den show this year where he was trading wisecracks with Skok. In short, I wasn’t fortunate enough to know him well, but Jack’s joi de vivre was immediately apparent to anyone who met him. He was a fun (and funny) guy to be around, and, of course, a tremendously influential fly tyer and fly fisherman. He will be sorely missed–not only by those who were close to him, but also by those who may have only met him once or twice, and even by those who may only knew of him through his writing.
“May he rest in peace” just doesn’t sound appropriate for Jack, as I imagine he’ll be fishing, tying flies and smoking for all eternity.
Bob Mead says:
December 9th, 2009 at 11:34 pm
Some years ago at the Isaac Walton Show up in Toronto we were at the Saturday evening Banquet . Between the prelims (silent auction and raffle action) and the banquet, Brandt and I headed for the rest room. Jack was already there puffing on a cigarette. Jack held his smoke between his first two fingers, palm up, with his upper arm against his side. A guy walked in, stuck his nose in the air and said to Jack, ” There’s no smoking in here.” Without missing a beat Jack replied, “So tell the principal.” The guy didn’t know what to say, just grunted and walked out.
So many stories. What a book they’d make.
Special thanks to the one and only Kate. I hope she will still come to the shows. And thanks too to Dave Skok and Mike Quigley for all they’ve done for Jack in good and bad times.
Tom Hawley says:
December 10th, 2009 at 12:17 am
They broke the die when they made Jack, no doubt about it… Jack, your humor, artistry and intelligence combined with your passion for fishing and life will never be matched. You mentored and inspired more people then you could ever imagine. Everyone you met became an instant friend.
Our selfishness desires just one last cast with you but it is not to be until we cross the river and you can tell us “Fish this spot… they’ll be here any minute” This gives us something to look forward to… In the meantime we will fondly remember the many trips taken and the many words spoken. Every trip created an indelible memories. Thanks so much for the memories Jack!
Bernie Hamill says:
December 10th, 2009 at 8:58 am
Jack made a believer out of me fishing Boston Harbor – catching a keeper on a sunny 90 degree day at noon with him! and trying to catch up with him as he would bound over rocks searching for fish. I was lucky he taught me a few patterns because his originals are too perfect to fish with and I have kept them all!
Thanks Jack.
Christian Acard says:
December 10th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Jack;
We met only a few times when I was leaving in Boston and was an instaneous fan of all your creations.
Since then your fame and flies cross the Atlantic to the benefit of the European fly fishing community.
You will be greatly missed
Paul from Scotland says:
December 10th, 2009 at 11:49 am
Enjoyed the blogs and your e-mails so much Jack. What a man you were !
Take it easy friend .
Tanya Christensen says:
December 10th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
I met Jack a couple of years back when working the Fly Fishing Shows and Symposium and still remember that remarkable twinkle in his eye. We had just finished up the day and Jack was telling me about his adventures traveling and fishing in Norway. Many more wonderful stories were to follow and I enjoyed hearing every one of them. Thank you Jack for your inspiration and letting me have a glimpse into your intriguing and wonderful life. You will sorely be missed and the next fish I catch is for you!
Matt Dormer says:
December 10th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
Thinking about Jack’s sense of humor and quick wit will always put a smile on my face. He had an uncanny way of mesmerizing trout….and people! I always admired his creativity, free spirit and his ability to slip out of his waders into his dancing shoes. He drove the women crazy with his swingdancing moves! Its amazing how many individuals he influenced in his short lifetime and i’ll cherish the days I had with him on the water. Jack will be missed but never forgotten!
Eric Leiser says:
December 11th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Jack was my friend. I will miss him.
jeff hulton says:
December 11th, 2009 at 11:45 am
there only was ONE Jack Gartside! Only Jack went bone fishing in FL – got off the plane, went to the Salvation Army store, picked up some used sneakers (Gartside flats slippers), a few pairs of shorts, an S Shirt (he was too cheap to buy a T Shirt!) and he was ready to go!
We will all miss you – you kept the sport real.
John Larson (Alpinefly) says:
December 11th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Jack,
You will be greatly missed here on earth, but I know that you are up there in heaven with the rest of the great legends, all together tying, telling fishing stories, and fishing the great River Of Life in paradise !!!! I won’t say goodbye; I will only say that I will see you soon and we will go fishing in the best stream of all !!!!
Tight Lines !!!!
John Larson (Alpinefly)
Lee Weil says:
December 11th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
I am sorry I did not get to know you better. I do however, have a fond memory of you dancing with a young lady wearing a viking helmet on her head at the Symposium banquet. You were attired (immaculately, as usual) in a 7 piece suit and a floatie toy.
You truly are one of the “real deals”, and you will be sorely missed.
Lee (DeerLee Beloved Flies)
tito says:
December 11th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
No lo conoci personalmente, pero si a traves de sus libros.
La gente buena, humilde y divertida como Jack, se dejan sentir sin estar presentes.
Nunca olvidare al innovador gran maestro del fly tying, Jack Gartside.
Que descanse en paz…..
Puerto Rico
Hugh McDowell says:
December 11th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
I met Jack at many Conclaves and we went fishing together quite a number of times. On one occasion we went up to the Yellowstone and he showed me how best to fish his Marabou Streamers. However he didn’t have any waders and spent the day wading wet in his suit and shoes. That night we went to the President’s banquet and Jack danced all night, still wearing the same stuff in which he’d been wading!
Some years later after my wife’s sudden and untimely death Jack regularly called me from Boston and provided a welcome ear and a great deal of much-needed support
He’ll definitely qualify for one of the most unforgettable characters I’ve ever met
Hugh McDowell, New Zealand
Mick Kearney says:
December 11th, 2009 at 10:06 pm
Snowflake caddis were hatching in the warm, still evening air yesterday as I fished a stream in the Snowy Mountains. I tied on Jack’s CPF caddis pattern, cast up into the bubble run of a current smoothly slipping against a bank clothed in Tea Tree bushes. The fly disappeared gently, sipped confidently by a 4lb Brown I soon released back to the stream. Thanks Jack.
Mick Kearney, Sydney, Australia
Dave Bener says:
December 12th, 2009 at 2:38 am
Jack meant alot to me.
mel harris says:
December 12th, 2009 at 7:37 am
It’s been said that they broke the mold after they made Jack. Well, having known Jack for many years, I can attest that he was not made from a mold, but by some other unknown technology. whether it was divine or otherwise we’ll probably never know.goodbye my dear friend. Mel Harris, Lincoln Ma
Terry Corneau says:
December 12th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Jack will be missed. He was a mentor to me, just loved talking to him at the many shows and watching him tie, listening to his stories. Instead of creating flies more complicated with materials that you couldn’t find, his creations tied in a loving way with materials that you could pick up on the side of the road, hands that produced flies that really caught fish, what an artist and a genuine character. Thank you Jack for all you gave me and so many others.
Terry Corneau
Danbury N.H.
Michael Jeavons says:
December 13th, 2009 at 10:44 am
I’ll never forget attending Jack’s tying workshop at our Forum in Toronto – marabou flying everywhere as he searched for the correct feather to tie a Hackle Streamer. This September I caught my biggest striper ever on a Gurgler.
Thanks, Jack.
Marla Blair says:
December 13th, 2009 at 10:50 am
I’d seen Jack at my local TU meetings. His programs were exciting and full of humor. Years later, at my first Intl’Fly Tyer’s Banquet, Jack gave a great speech, at a roast for Harrison Steeves, calling him the “greatest fly fisherman in the world” (a title that came from Harrison’s wife) and presented Harrison with a huge penis-shaped ashtray!
The room roared with laughter, and I knew at that moment, that Jack was an awesome character. At some point he began calling me “Mylar” and it became my nickname around the shows. I only wish I had known him better, but the many that do, have wonderful stories about his adventures, and I will have to be content with those. Kate I hope you know that many envy your relationship with Jack and honor your friendship as well. I hope you will come to shows and share stories and you with all of us.
M
Henry E. Hodgdon says:
December 13th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I heard about Jack not soon enough,but i learned about him ,I now have one of im sure the last tied sparrows. I am so happy to have found out about him and got these flies. Now i’ve said that i’ll be inundated with requests for them , oh well ………Peace Mr. Gartside “Jack.”!!
Tom Cronenwett says:
December 13th, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Good-Bye Jack!
Thanks for the hospitality and imagination. You will be in my thoughts next time I am twitching along a Gurgler waiting for a bass to blow up on it.
Deidra Cooke says:
December 13th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
My connection with Jack was through dance – we met at Ryles Dance Hall – he was a regular there…..reading all of the wonderful tributes to him here, I can’t help thinking of my Maternal Grandpa, Wilmot McQueen, who loved fishing!!!! He would get his ice-hut going on Cowden Lake, MI., where he and Grandma retired many years ago….he’d sit out there on the ice, trying to get that illusive Pike, the biggest one in the Lake….no one had been able to catch it for YEARS!!!!…..and Grandpa finally landed it!!!!!!! I hope Grandpa and Jack are connected in the Afterworld as fishing buddies!!!!!
Bob White, Folksinger says:
December 13th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
In 1970, or so, I was introduced to Jack Gartside by my good friends Alan Stowell of Gainesville Fla., and Kurt Anderson currently of Nashville TN. I was living in Saratoga Springs NY. and planning to move to Boston. Somehow Alan and Kurt decided I should rent one of the rooms in Jack’s apartment at either 10 or 12 Sachem Street, up on Mission Hill. I lived with Jack for two years, or so. During that time , I fished with Jack only one time, in a river near Taunton MA. We did not catch fish that night, but it did not matter. We had great, crazy, times We played poker every Thursday night, when Jack was in town. He was always either working (the taxi) saving money to go on a fishing trip, or leaving town to go fishing. One Thursday playing poker with Jack, his sister Gladys, and other Jack groupies, someone had invited an ex-con to join the game. This gentleman had some knowledge of cheating and accused Jack and Gladys of passing signals to each other. After some serious threats, we
decided to call it an evening. I think we then headed over to Harvard Square to help Alan and Kurt who were busking in front of the Brattle Theatre. It was a normal day! I am deeply saddened by my friend Jackie’s passing. I kept in touch with Jack over the past years, but did not know of his cancer diagnosis until last year. Jack was hopeful, and put up a great fight. I am so proud to have had Jack as a friend. What a great and funny guy. There are too many stories to share here. Adios Jackie, see you down the line.
Henry Southworth says:
December 14th, 2009 at 6:14 am
Jack was my US cousin, and, like me, a true ‘Gartside’ (we all know what that means). We first met up in Boston outside some public building. When I arrived some weird and hopeless down-and-out was propping up the doorway, and I thought ‘hell, I hope that’s not Jack’. It turns out that he was hiding inside, having arrived earlier, and, seeing the same guy outside had thought ‘hell, I hope that’s not Henry’!
For a number of years I’d been trying to get Jack out to Africa to join me in the quest for the awesome tigerfish that abound on Zambia’s Lower Zambezi River. Thankfully I managed this a couple of years ago (although Jack still muttered that the equally awesome week that we spent on safari, viewing big game, could better have been spent doing more fishing).
We had plans to market flyfishing safaris to Africa together which, sadly, will now never come about. However we are intending to put together an itinerary that Jack would definitely approved of – naming it ‘The Jack Gartside Fly-Fishing Safari’, in his memory.
Henry Southworth, Birmingham, UK
http://www.AfricaAway.com
Seline Skoug says:
December 14th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Hey Jack,
May you now be floating in the virtual Boston Harbor and meet many more Norwegians on your next trip.
Your humor and fishing lore, skills and magic will forever be remembered!
Hilse,
Seline
Rickey Noel Mitchell says:
December 15th, 2009 at 7:54 am
Jack Gartside
How many years ago it was I’m really not sure, it was at the time when I wanted to make my own personal contribution to the word of fly-fishing as a writer and a photographer. I wanted to write about and capture images of fly tying, fly-fishing destinations and most of all, the craft I fished from. However the flies I tied even the fish I fish for were not shall we say in the mainstream of fly-fishing and the craft I was casting flies from, I was afraid everyone in the world of fly-fishing would just think I was nuts! I was working on what would be my first published article; I would start it delete it then start over again.
To be honest for the first time in my life I was afraid to be different and it was definitely affecting my writing. I’d been in this frustrating limbo for a few months and then one afternoon I’d just got home after some early morning fishing. There was no one home when I got there so I walked into the kitchen to see if my wife had left a note for me in the usual place.
Instead of a note there in its place was the latest issue of Fly-Fishing in Salt Waters. It was the Jan/Feb issue of 1996.
The cover shot was of some character sitting on an inflatable giraffe, the giraffe’s name was Gerald, and its rider was of course Jack.
I immediately flipped to the contents and the first words that caught my eye was the title Hey Cabby, Take me to the Fish. I was a cab driver for almost two years of my life and believe me the experiences can add color to anyone’s character I can’t tell you how delightful it was to read and article by a fly-fishing cab driver and read it I did, two different times that day and at least once a month until I managed to acquire Striper Strategies Secrets of a Striper Bum and eventually Scratching the Surface Strange but True Tales &Techniques.
What I eventually learned from Jack’s work was to write about what inspired me and not to worry about fitting into the mainstream of fly-fishing but finding my own niche.
Sometime after that I made a trip to the fly-fishing show here in Pleasanton California one year with hopes of meeting him. I caught up to him at his tying table about an hour before his presentation, it was slow at the time and they weren’t very many people so I was able to hang out at his table and talk with him. When it came time for him to go to his presentation I helped him carry his gear there.
We had an excellent conversation and I feel I was actually able to get to know him. We stayed in touch by email for a few years after that. A few months after I met Jack, my first article was published, a few years later my first book.
Jack, thank you for your generosity, your knowledge and your inspiration. You were an original and I thank God for sharing you with us.
Rickey Noel Mitchell, Author
jack swegel RI fisherman says:
December 15th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
I loved seeing and speaking to Jack at the shows. He always signed my books “from one Jack to another”. His gurgler is my favorite striper fly. His flies will always remind me of him when I open my fly boxes.
Jack, save a few big ones on the other side for the rest of us.
Bret Reiter says:
December 16th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Jack thanks for all the emails & phone calls we shared back & forth with each other & the advice. I will miss your humor & your stories.
Thanks for being there during my illness last fall. I know we mentioned several times how much it helped us both with all the encouragement we gave to each other to get well & to fish Michigan this coming summer. I am sorry now that we won’t make it.
The world is a lot emptier with you not in it. Tight lines & keep the wind @ your back my friend.
Jerry Peters says:
December 16th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
I spent a half day in Boston Harbor on one of Jack’s “Advanced Striper Strategies” classes with two other “students”. We fished here and there as the tide moved, learned a lot, but caught no fish until the last stop. He walked us over to a piece of private beach and said “I’ve always wanted to fish here. I’ll be right back.” With that, he walked up to the door of the house whose lawn we’d have to walk over to gain access to the water, knocked on the door, and introduced himself to the owner out of earshot to us. The host seemed cold to the idea at first suddenly burst into laughter and shook Jack’s hand as he motioned in a way that could only mean “go right ahead – fish all you want”! Jack returned and said with a smile “There, I just got permission to fish here whenever I like.” We walked to the water and proceeded to catch several fish to end the class. He wouldn’t tell us what he said to the owner. I felt like I got to see a perfect example of why Jack’s company was enjoyed by so many people. We’ll miss you, Jack.
Judith Dunham says:
December 16th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
Jack had talent for many things–fishing, tying flies, telling stories, dancing to any music the band played, exchanging ideas about any subject–and an unmatchable passion for life. What I remember most about fishing with him in Montana and Florida is not the fish caught, or even those that got away, but the funny scenes like the rental car filled with copious amounts of dry cat food that he bought for stray cats but was scattered about by invading raccoons–and the look on the face of the attendant when the car was returned. Thanks to Jack’s smile and charm, there were no consequences. Wherever he is, that smile and charm live on.
Bob White, Folksinger says:
December 17th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
I have read and re-read the anecdotes written above regarding the life and adventures of our friend, Jack Gartside. Each time I finish by wiping a tear from my eye. I am hoping for many more stories, and wish to submit another here. Around 1976-77, Jack spent the summer in Yellowstone, one of his favorite haunts. At the time, I was living in Spokane WA. not too far from Yellowstone. I received a call from Jack saying that he had been fishing in Yellowstone and needed to come over to Spokane while his van was being repaired. (Who knows why?) If you had seen Jack’s van, you would know anything could have gone wrong. “Sure Jackie, come ahead”, God knows he had spontaneously given me a space in his apartment when I had the need. Jack did not mention that his cat, Merlin, was travelling with him. Of course Jack knew I had three golden retriever dogs at the time. Needless to say, when Jack, and Merlin arrived, there was a certain, typical pandemonium which did not end until we left Spokane. Did I neglect to mention that Jack did not travel with a litterbox. Oh well, not many people do. I left Spokane with Jack on a beautiful September day. We hitch-hiked to Bozeman MT. with a guitar, cat, fly-rod, and other necessities. We actually got a ride in the back of a pick-up truck with another hitch-hiker, a young guy whose name I forget. We arrived at our destination out on the interstate, and Jack left me with the cat, the gear, and our new hitch-hiking buddy, to go into town, Bozeman, I think. Jack actually returned several hours later with his van. Did I mention that Jack did not travel with a litterbox. The van was everything, including the litterbox. If you know Jack, you know he loved cats. Well, the odor was ferocious. You had to love cats. As Woody Guthrie stated in a song, we rattled on down that highway, and rattle we did. This was only the beginning of a very eventful trip. For me, this is exactly the kind of Jack Gartside experience that has created his legendary status. Live on Jackie, live on!
John Major says:
December 17th, 2009 at 4:43 pm
After meeting Jack for the first time at the Marlborough fly fishing show, I always made it a point to catch his seminar and stop by his table to chat each time our paths crossed. His sense of humor, creativity, and story telling made an impression that few can match. Who else publishes a fly fishing book with the cover photo having the author astride an inflatable giraffe in Boston Harbor? I enjoy fishing patterns with a story behind them, and will remember Jack every time I tie on a gurgler.
Tim from PA says:
December 18th, 2009 at 9:00 am
I was stunned when I came to this site and saw that Jack had passed. Jack is partially responsible for my love of flyfishing. I purchased flies ,materials and books that helped me alot. The gurgler is still one of my go-to flies. Thanks Jack, rest in peace.
Antonio Rinaldin says:
December 20th, 2009 at 9:36 am
Goodbye Jack, you have been a myth for me. I have loved your eclectic personality and your ideas of fly fishing. Every time that I will tie or cast a Gurgler, I will make it thinking you. Thanks Jack, rest in peace.
Herman Broers says:
December 21st, 2009 at 3:25 pm
The international flytying symposium was just closed and i was out side smoking when i saw Jack and a few other guy’s taking pictures of a group off guy’s. I walked up to Jack and asked what was going on. He repyed i have no idear but if these guy’s take pictures it might be some thing he smiled and walked a way.
I wish i had known you better.
Bill Bergen says:
December 22nd, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Jack Gartside may have been the most resourceful creative tyer who ever lived. He would “discover” untried and in many cases discarded materials and create original, attractive and functional flies from cigarette butts, packing material and road kill. He was a teacher to hundreds of aspiring tyers and a hero to those of us who have been tempted to line up and take a thirty year walk in the woods. Jack taught me the secrets of secret, the magic of corsair, 101 uses for craft foam and the versatility of the ringneck. Our world of threads and lines is so much better for having known Jack and so much sadder for having lost him.
Fred Arbona says:
December 25th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
I met Jack in 1974 in Montana and the last time we fished together was in 1999 in the Florida Keys; it was a hell of a 25-year run of fun, adventures and misadventures (he almost drowned me in his infamous ‘water raft’ in Boston Harbor).
We had endless intellectual conversations over those years about the merits of the ‘imitator’ (me) vs. ‘impressionist’ (he). Great fun.
I am hopeful we get to fish again some more somewhere on ‘the other side’.
Fred Arbona
Ulrik says:
December 28th, 2009 at 8:17 am
Thanks Jack, not only for sharing your skills, but for great stories along the way, especially at the bar in Somerset…No fishing day in 2010 will end without one of your patterns having tasted the danish brine…
Da Dane…
Terry C. Tessein says:
December 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Jack, you played such a big part in the book I wrote. The pictures I took that mid-summer’s day when when it was nearly 95 are a testiminy of how you could catch fish, regardless of conditions. You knew Boston Harbor so well. Jack, you were one in a million and I will miss the fishing advice and entertaining company.
Duane Marler says:
January 1st, 2010 at 2:21 pm
I first met Jack at a FFF Conclave in West Yellowstone during the mid 70`s. After the Conclave Jack invited me to go fishing with him at a nearby “secret” spot. Jack had been fishing the area for several weeks and was staying at Bakers Hole campground on the Madison. Early the next morning I drove to his camp site, Jack was just crawling out of a dilapidated make-shift tent in his fishing clothes. “Lets go” he said as we piled into his beat-up old blue VW hippie van. (This rig had seen better days). A set of elk antlers was tied on top that he won in a poker game. (Jack had to get a special permit for the antlers while traveling in the park). The van`s interior was equally in bad shape, there were no seat cushions over the exposed springs, only a piece of plywood. Oh well, we did not have far to go! Upon arriving at a knoll overlooking a meandering meadow stream, Jack said watch that pool below, a very big brown trout lives here, you might see the fish rise! The meadow stream looked more like good moose or grizzly bear habitat than a place for trout, especially a big brown trout. “Sure Jack” I will keep my eyes open for this monster trout. While stringing up the rod, guess what! There was a huge wake in the pool followed by an enormous fish surfacing in the middle of the pool. The fish continued to destroy the tranquility of the pool with several more rises and then it was gone. As I looked in disbelieve, Jack just smiled as if to say I told you so. The next few hours we spent fishing the many pools and bends of the stream, small fish were caught, but the “big boy” did not show again.
I will always be grateful to Jack, for showing me one of his favorite places. Since that time I have fished this water many times and will always think of “Duck Creek Jack”.
Al Gadoury says:
January 4th, 2010 at 9:03 am
When I looked at Jack’s flies and thought about how I would use them I considered the fish already caught.
Capt. Len Roberts and Tomoko says:
January 7th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Jack your memories of the 2 of us will live with me forever. Still rember the first time we met at a TU Conclave in the Catkills and I bought some flies from you that were hoppers, still have them in my safe keeping fly box. I know when we spoke in Sept. 2009 that you were feeling much better and hopping for a great recovery. Sorry we didn’t get to meet up that day as planed, but we will tie again some day with all the greats as we sit and tie like we did years ago at the Golden Grouper in the Keys, thats where I was your ace student and went on from there to be a known tier thanks to you. Was sure hopeing that you were going to make it down to the Keys again this year for a try at those tarpon you liked so much on No Name Key. They will be waiting for you, God Bless you and may you Rest in Peace. I’ll miss you for ever.
Capt. Len Roberts
Sheila and Larry Harris says:
January 8th, 2010 at 6:35 pm
Very Sad News.
Thank you,Jack,for all of your accomplishments and your inspiration to the world of Fly Fishing.
You’ll always be remembered for your great heart,talent and sense of humor.
Say hello to all the good company and other luminaries there with you ,fishing those heavenly pools…
Lee, Charlie Fox, Gary..just a few…oh the stories you could tell..
God Speed..
Bob Twombly says:
January 24th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
I used to go to fly fishing shows to see Jack tie. I went whenever I could see him tie..he was gifted as a tier a presenter/showman and I am sure as a fisherman. He represented the best of the sport. People like him dont come along very often…happy fishing wherever you are Jack!
John Kober says:
February 19th, 2010 at 6:37 pm
I just found out that Jack has passed. I haven’t seen Jack in 4-5 years and I regret not keeping in touch. We met many years ago in the Keys and had a number of excursions that will always be among my favorite fishing stories. Jack was an amazing fly tyer, but he was also an unbelievable angler. Smart as a whip, funny as anyone I’ve met and I’ll miss him. I remember his mismatched tarpon rod that he had duct taped together, his outfits that he’d buy from the salvation army on his fishing trips, and his hotel room full of feathers, fur and foam.
Jack, You were one of a kind and you lived life on your own terms. I hope your fishing a matching rod in your next adventure and hope to see you on the other side.
Robert Camenzind says:
February 19th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Its with a heavy heart that I learned of Jack’s passing today.
I too am currently fighting a battle with Lung Cancer, and just wanted to thank Jack for the being so inspirational to me during this time. I pledge to continue using his inspiration in my fight until I declare complete victory over this illness.
It is my sincerest hope you are at peace in heaven Jack, doing what love most.
I’ll see you up there in 40 years or so! Until then, may god bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand.
Tom Brooks says:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
The Pony Express arrived today with the news about Jack. What a wonderful spirit and talent he is. For all of his easy going ways he was the most serious person I think I ever met when it came to flies and fly fishing. My life would be less fulfilling in so many ways were it not for meeting and reading about Jack. He knew what to do with life.
Akira Ikegami says:
March 26th, 2010 at 1:48 am
I ‘ve always continued to like reading your tying book and looked forward to seeing you in person someday. Actually, I caught several suzuki with a white gargler in my residential area, which locates close to a beach in Hiroshima, Japan. Thank you for all your legendary imagination and inspiration.
Tom Martin says:
May 12th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
Jack, as I sit at my desk tying Gurglers for a Tarpon trip over to San Felipe de Yucatan, I feel mucho gratitude for you and your wonderful flies. My ongoing ritual to you is to say “Thank you Jack” everytime I land a Baby Tarpon. I try to stay as true to your original pattern as possible but, finding the correct materials here in Mexico is often a stretch. I will miss you Jack and I promise your memory live on through every client that fishes with PescaMexicana. Thanks for everything Jack. Hasta Pronto, Tom