Since early July I’ve been on the water a few hours here and there but not with a fly rod. It’s been about 60 days since I fished for me. When you go on droughts like I do you get a bit anxious and rowdy when the next opportunity rolls around. A lot rides on that first cast…that first take…and that first fish.
The anticipation is almost unbearable. It isn’t until you step out of the boat, wade into the water, and make that first cast that you settle down and remember why there isn’t anything else you would rather do than this.
This past week I finally was able to get back at it. The trip was in the works for a year or so. Fished with Savoy last year about this time. Thought we might try it again this year. I was able to work in two full days…sun up to sun down.
Rolled into camp late Friday night and eased into the program. With cold beer in hand and a camp fire, Savoy and I got caught up and prepped gear for the next day.
By the looks of the campground it was obvious there was going to be a bit of traffic on the water. It’s been like that for years now. I’m not quite sure how the river handles it but it does with great fortitude and determination. Fortunately there is a lot of water to cover and not everyone has patience enough to work a run properly. Leaves enough fish for the rest of us willing to take it to the next level. The fish are usually better all around.
For two days straight Savoy and I worked the runs, seams, ledges, dropoffs, and side channels. We were lucky enough to pull more than our fair share of better than average fish. Much different game than last year. This go around it was more of a sight thing. Great feeling to spot one, match the hatch, and connect. I caught myself several times holding my breathe as I anticipated the take.
60 days is a long time between casts.
Nice spots.
Big head. That guy was no more than 10 feet away in water barely deep enough to cover my knees. Watch where you wade and work near to far.
Dolly Jabba.
Back you go.
What are the odds?
Camp life.
Dinner...bigger the better.
Morning launch.
Heading upstream.
2 o'clock...
Sight fished in 2-1/2 feet of water. Full sun.
Photo credit: Alaska Department of Fish & Game. License check.
Fumble.
Looks like it was worth the wait. Good Form my friend, Good Form.
-J
Thanks. Hopefully you’ve been able to get out and pick on some of the local fish. Winter steelhead is around the corner for you. Get out there.
Sixty days is a long wait. Looks like you found the cure though.
Just barely though. Haven’t been able to get back on the water since. Sixty days is a long time between fish. I’m a little concerned about my well being.
Those are some beautiful fish, especially the heavily spotted rainbow. Nice work.
Thanks. Yeah McSpotty there was an interesting catch. I’ve never seen one spotted so heavily without a distinct red band along the side.
Beautiful stuff my man…beautiful!!!
Appreciate the kinds word. Nice work on the new film “Down on the Farm” at Bent Rod Media.
Thanks Yi!!!! Raul is working on a new Promo Video for Casters Fly Shop now. Seems like we never get to work on BRM stuff. Hopefully we will be ready for some fly fishing film shows next year with our own stuff.