Windknots & Tangled Lines

I used to be...

2018-12-02T12:28:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time since I've written anything. Probably longer than any period in my life. Writing has always been an outlet for me. A way to express what I was feeling about life whether that be romantic or funny or sad. But one day several long months ago I woke up to a feeling about life that I had never experienced before. The feeling of total hopelessness and helplessness.

I've always been an optimistic person, feeling that life was at best a mostly enjoyable situation, at worst amusing to observe. Then one day for some unexplained reason the door slammed shut on my optimism. I've got theories about why it happened, but the whys aren't really all that important. The fact is that it did happen and dumped me into total darkness for what seemed like a lifetime.

Perhaps that's why I always found it easier to make light of things. Using laughter as a mean to avoid a lot of the bad things that happen to people as we all travel this road called life together.

My purpose in writing this totally non-fishing related piece is to hopefully open some eyes to a very real thing called depression. Many of you reading this are probably already aware, maybe through your own experiences or those of a loved one. It takes more than a well meaning, 'Well, just think happy thoughts' to help someone who feels like they are perched on a ledge of an abyss and don't care if they fall in or not.

As silly and trite as it sounds, reach out to someone who may be depressed. Talk to them. Compliment them on something, make them laugh. You don't know, but it just might save their life and they will be eternally grateful. I'd like to thank a couple of friends here who reached out to me. I won't embarrass them here right now. They know who they are and I am eternally grateful.

A few words...

2018-09-30T20:58:00.004-06:00

I know I've been neglecting the blog and I apologize to those that still get windknots in their lines. (What? A pun?) Yes, I'm still alive and well and pondering my next move. I've got a float trip on the Colorado coming up in two weeks and barring horrible weather it should be great getting Pam out on the water to see how she likes fishing from a raft.

Meanwhile I've been charging my batteries and waiting to see how long they last before they need charging again. Hopefully a nice rest away from the blog will be the shot I need to jump in again soon. I'll be posting up something about the float trip and I still plan on stopping by everyone's blogs to make sure everyone is doing well.

In the meantime, at the request of Bill Trussell, I'm posting some pictures of Clear Creek. I never made it up this year and that's a first in many years. God Bless all of you!

Famous last words...

2018-08-26T11:40:00.001-06:00

I'm sure I've mentioned a time or over the years that my original reason for starting this blog was to sharpen my writing skills and hopefully get a book published. Well, that didn't work out well did it? But, like our old buddy Mark Kautz, I don't give up easily.

After reading the last post up on Northern California Trout, Mark spoke those famous last words, Old Age Sucks. Mark didn't realize it, but his words mesmerized me and put me right back on the rails. The old train is leaving the station! I am currently working on my last ditch effort to get that book written and published. And, thanks to Mark, I've got the title! The new book will be called Old Age Sucks and Other Famous Last Words of a Fisherman.

I'd like to ask my friends to help me and of course you will be given all proper credit. Here are some of my favorites so far.

* Sorry, I thought I only farted
* I don't need a wading staff
* Don't worry about food, we'll catch enough for dinner
* My gear and tackle are all packed and ready to go
* I'll just shut my eyes for another minute
* Bear spray?
* Don't be silly, it's just a bruise
* These are my lucky white sunglasses
* I got a gig as a Prostaff for Windknots & Tangled Lines and all I got was this crummy shirt
* I used to be a master baiter before I took up fly fishing
* Excuse me, can you help me remove this fly from my ass?
* I'm naked under my waders!

I hope that this post finds Mark floating and pain-free in the float tube Cumberland and the best to all my old friends for continuing to live the dream!

And then there was fishing

2018-08-24T14:59:00.001-06:00

I can finally report that I did in fact go fishing last Saturday. My buddy Mark forgave me and this time I drank copious amounts of water throughout the night...virtually guaranteeing that I would be up every hour on the hour. When 7am rolled around I just stayed up.

Like last weekend, the plan was to drive to South Boulder Creek. Neither one of us had seen a recent report to know if the water was high or low but I was just looking forward to getting out, wetting a line and spending some time with Mark.

Remember that it's August in Colorado, which means warm and humid, so I dressed appropriately-sandals, jeans and t-shirt. Remember that in the mountains in Colorado in August it could actually be snowing! There was no snow, but it was overcast, very windy and cold. The river was low by about a foot (judging by the water mark on the big boulder.

Did i mention that it was windy and cold? I was miserable, but decided to suck it up and fish! (Spoiler alert!) Yeah, no pictures of fish or of me fishing. Because there aren't many easy ways to the water, I chose to fish the area I always fish because it doesn't entail climbing down boulders to reach the water. Mark chose to climb down the rocks and wandered off.

However, just to the right of the above crappy photos was a nice eddy where a good drift though the rough water would gently glide into some nice water where surely there would be a nice fish relaxing. Sure enough, my first cast gently landed in a bunch a trees. (Also out of the picture.)

After getting my obligatory bad cast out of the way, I used the wind to my advantage and casted way upstream. The fly (a red-bead head pheasant tail) landed exactly in the middle of the above pictured mess and gently drifted into the eddy. There was a strong thump, a wiggle (I swear) and my line went slack. Long story short, it was gone. I spent the next hour pulling flies out of the trees and periodically getting a good drift all to no avail. Then it started to spit rain. Mark hadn't had any luck either, so we decided to call it a day.

Until next time...

Seen on the way home

The trip that wasn't

2018-08-12T14:27:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, my buddy Mark and I made plans to visit South Boulder Creek. Although Mark and I have been friends for nearly 20 years, it would mark the first time we guys had gone out fishing without the girls. I guess the fact that I overslept and missed Mark's text sums up what my day was like. Mark later told me that the fishing was fine but the catching was slow.

We've been going to this particular location for a long time and although I've always found the catching slow, it was always fun nonetheless. The girls usually packed plenty of snacks and beverages so it as much a social occasion as a fishing trip. Since I failed in my attempt to fish with Mark, I thought I would post some photos from previous trips.

I was really upset for missing this opportunity to fish with a good friend. Although he won't admit it, Mark is a good fisherman. He travels the country for his job and gets to try his hand at some Montana waters and always downplays how well he does.

Mark, we've had some fun trips together, I apologize for missing our boy;s day on South Boulder Creek, but we have the float coming up in a while. I won't miss that!

Good news in the fly fishing blogger community

2018-08-03T21:15:00.003-06:00

There was a discussion on Facebook at the Fly Fishing Bloggers page that I thought might be of interest to many of you who visit here. It seems that there is always some discussion somewhere debating whether the fly fishing blog is dead and if so, what has taken it's place.

Since a lot of old timers still stop in when I can trip over something to write about, I thought I would share with you. I'm sure most of you will agree that the blog has taken a hit in popularity over the past few years. I've got my reasons why I think that is, but will withhold my opinion until later.

The upshot of the discussion is that there are many new bloggers trying to build an audience and several old timers who got lost along the way who want to see our blogging community start talking, meeting and sharing again.

I've added a few new blogs to the blogroll that you should check out and leave a comment. I think you'll find that before long your blog will be shared.

Let's do this thing!

Thank goodness for friends

2018-07-17T21:14:00.000-06:00

The Summer here in Colorado is quickly slipping away on me. Actually, I think that is the most moronic statement I have ever uttered, but I think you know what I mean. It's slipping away from all of us at the same pace. It's just that some of us (ME!) aren't getting out and doing what we love.

No excuses from me this week. My time has been filled with work, more work (because there's air conditioning there!) and other assorted family obligations. And then the weather has been unusually hot, waters are low and warm and then there are the wildfires. We finally got a good drenching this evening. The Home General is going to be leaving the country in a few days for about 10 days and if the weather cooperates I may get the chance to actually go somewhere and fish.

She's going to an outstanding fishing destination but won't be fishing. I wasn't invited. We still have our float on the Colorado River coming up in the Fall so there's that and The River Damsel is reportedly still coming out also. Will Chris (Fading Angler) show up? Only time will tell.

So, by now you've probably noticed the beautiful brown trout pictured below. My buddy Mike in Oregon had to rub it in that he's been getting out and I haven't. This brown was caught on the Deschutes River in Oregon by a friend of his. Yes, I've been invited every year for quite a few years and no, I haven't made it out there yet.

Shame on me!

Deschutes River Brown

On blogging and fishing

2018-07-04T13:36:00.004-06:00

Blogging, or rather lack of it has been on my mind a lot lately. I have been on (for me) a long dry spell where nothing particularly interesting has been happening. I'd blame it on the dog, but Max isn't to blame. I've had some family commitments that have kept me busy but I honestly can't blame that either. Maybe it was the anonymous email I received a couple of weeks ago that said, Give it up! I don't know for sure they were talking about my blogging, but that's the way I took it.

There are a few die-hards left and thank goodness for all of you. You my friends have saved me from myself. If the likes of Alan, Walt, Kevin, Mark, Bill and everyone else who puts fingers to the keyboard stopped today, I would be forced to read my own writing!

After grappling with the question of whether to go on or not, I decided that, what the hell...why not. Our lives change everyday. This is just another bump in the road. So, to all of you

God bless America!

Exploring locally...the rest of the story

2018-06-12T19:03:00.000-06:00

I realize that it's been a bit since I last posted. Honestly, I've been debating whether I can sink any lower than my last post entitled Exploring locally. Luckily, The River Damsel convinced me that yes...yes I can sink lower. What could be worse? Exploring locally...the rest of the story!

For a long time it seemed really difficult to find any information regarding Hodgson-Harris Reservoir. But a great writer doesn't become a great writer without being a persistent researcher. Finally, finally, finally I struck gold. Buckle up folks.

According to Boulder County Open Space (yes I live in Boulder County!) there was Ecological Value Assessment done on the reservoir written March 2018. Here's what I learned.

Hodgson Harris Reservoir was constructed in 1882, making it one of the oldest agricultural reservoirs in the County. Its age and stability on the landscape had allowed for decades of ecological succession. In the past 25 years however, significant fragmentation has occurred in the general area of Hodgson Harris via residential development and the addition of several associated new roads. Despite these changes, the ecological values associated with Hodgson Harris reservoir remained high.

Ecological values of Hodgson Harris Reservoir:  Confirmed northern leopard frog breeding site. This species is a Boulder County Species of Special Concern and Colorado State Species of Greatest Conservation Need (Tier 1). It is also a U.S. Forest Service Sensitive Species. ( Uh oh!)  High diversity of waterfowl, including nesting American avocets and blue-winged teal. Also, there was high use by diving ducks including goldeneyes, and mergansers. This indicates an intact food web, as these species feed on mollusks, crayfish, small fish and macroinvertebrates.  High population of freshwater mollusks: Marsh Ramshorn (Helisoma trivolvis) and bigeared radix (Lymnaea auricularia).

Northern Leopard Frog

Mitigation measures were implemented in an effort to maintain habitat values during construction such as: 1) The placement of a low earthen berm to hold water at the west end of the reservoir (the inlet area). The goal of this action was to maintain habitat for the confirmed breeding northern leopard frogs (Lithobates pipiens), pre-construction, and also the significant population of mollusks present pre-construction; Marsh Ramshorn (Helisoma trivolvis) and big-eared radix (Lymnaea auricularia). There was also a significant population of crayfish. 2) Requested date of initial dewatering to occur after August 15, to accommodate northern leopard frog potential overwintering. This action did not occur, based on the contractor needing to determine if the reservoir’s substrate would be suitable for use in the dam construction. 3) Requested that the gradual slopes on the south side of the reservoir not be excavated to produce more storage capacity. These slopes provide the best habitat / access for shorebirds and provide the best mudflats when water levels are drawn down. The implementation of the recountouring grading plans did take this request into account. 4) Requested that the wetland vegetation below the dam be impacted as minimally as possible, due to habitat values. The contractors attempted to limit disturbance to these wetlands during construction, but disturbance did occur. Additionally, the leaking of the original dam was supporting a significant portion of this wetland, and this leaking no longer occurs. Therefore, the size of the wetlands below the dam has decreased.

Here now is a summary of the condition of this site.

* The reservoir is now inhabited by invasive, non-native bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana), which directly compete with northern leopard frogs, both by predation and as a vector for the chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis), which has led to significant declines in leopard frog populations. One adult was detected during the dam reconstruction, but Northern leopard frogs have not been detected at the reservoir since the dam completion.

* The benthic substrate of the reservoir is currently anoxic in places. The oxygen levels are very low, and the macroinvertebrate assemblage is sparse. No crayfish or mollusks were observed or captured during surveys. Small fish were observed, and determined to be bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus). A full sample of fish was not conducted, so a comprehensive list of species present is not possible. Additionally, no crayfish were observed during surveys, but this species was not the focus of surveys, so it is possible they are present.

* The waterfowl diversity at the reservoir remains high (Jones, 2017) and Appendix A. However, a noted change is the overall decrease in diving duck numbers post- reconstruction, presumably based on the decrease of mollusks, aquatic invertebrates and crayfish as a food source (pre-construction, there was heavy use of the reservoir by mergansers, goldeneyes and buffleheads). Diving ducks consume aquatic invertebrates, crayfish, fish and mollusks.

Some shorebirds of great interest still nest at the reservoir, post dam replacement.

* Additionally, BCPOS does not allow public access to the reservoir and recommends this closure remain due to the wildlife use that still occurs. Also, the space and seclusion provided by the open area to the north of the reservoir allows the waterfowl a relatively undisturbed area to concentrate. Development of this parcel will alter this.

So, it seems that there are/were at least bluegill in the reservoir and probably other fish as well and plenty of things for fish to eat. It sounds to me like it turned into a little bit of an environmental mess. Think I'll take a run up to Clear Creek!

Exploring locally

2018-05-30T09:09:00.002-06:00

I've talked before about the ponds on the back side of my house and a post also about the big pond across the street from my house called Hodgson-Harris Reservoir. Last year they drained it, tore out the earthen dam and built a rock reinforced dam. The word was they were going to stock it.

They had a dedication ceremony after the dam was built but I must have missed the invitation, I found out how to access the pond, which is not by walking across the street, but by driving in the condo complex to the south of the pond and then walking in.

Is is not adventure fishing but it would have to do. The only thing close to danger here is a large pack of coyotes that come out in the evening and howl at whatever it is that coyotes howl at...usually my dog barking at them at 2:00 A.M.

I'm still playing things by ear because I have not seen another human being partaking in fishing there and I really have no idea if it was stocked or not. The pond is home to cranes and pelicans so I would think that there is something to eat there that's worth landing for.

So over the long weekend I took a trip around part of the pond checking to see if there was anything swimming in the water. (Minus the fly rod in case I had to make a run for it for trespassing) I've got some suspicions that there are some fish in there, but then again, I'll believe it when I see it.

Stand by for some exploring!

Still here...Update

2018-05-20T14:18:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I'm still here. Not been fishing yet, but I'm still hanging in hoping that my days off and nice weather will align soon. We had rain and hail almost every day last week and it's looking like more the same today. At least my friends are getting out!

So, what shall we talk about today? How about some more fly tying? I've never claimed to be the best fly tier (tyer?) I've got old chubby fingers and the patience of an ant, but I do keep trying. The only good thing I can say is even ugly flies catch fish! I don't always use the right materials and I do like to experiment

with oddly shaped flies. Isn't that how Ralph Long got started?

Another big problem I have is I get bored easily. I can't for the life of me tie more than two or three of any one pattern at one time. You should see my fly boxes! So, once I have an ample supply of what I know usually works, my mind starts designing or maybe destructing is a better word. Anyway, here's what I have been working on. I call these flies for a far-sighted fish.

The update: I mistakenly posted some flies tied by Alan over at Small Stream Reflections. My apologies to Alan. It should have been obvious...I don't tie that well.

One can never have enough Adams

Peacock nymph is a great fly out here

I discovered the Zebra Midge a couple of years ago and it's a go to fly now

Working on getting those soft hackles down but I think it will fly

The scene of the crime

Out with the new and in with the old...

2018-05-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

At the risk of sounding like a curmudeon (cur'mudg'eon / noun: a bad-tempered or surly person.) I need to vent a little about something I have already discussed previously in this blog. I'm not so cranky as to totally dismiss progress. I was once promoted over younger more capable people because of my willingness to adapt to change, a quality I've always admired in others.

So, why in the name of God's green earth is it so hard to adapt to the new look of my favorite section of Clear Creek? I'm certainly not adverse to others enjoying the things they enjoy in such a beautiful setting; just not in my fishing hole.

Fishing this section of Clear Creek Canyon has been bringing me a lot of pleasure for more years than I can count. And even though the distance between the creek and the roadway could be measured in feet, I could easily get lost there.

Now...as I get ready to embark on my first Clear Creek excursion, here's what I face.

Clear Creek runs approximately 66 miles. I guess it's time to explore...

Tying flies saves the day!

2018-05-06T00:14:00.000-06:00

I know that I've been on a little bit of downer lately. I know I've been (unhappily) growing older but it's not like it was a surprise. The good news is I'm mostly over it. I found what for me seems to have mentally stemmed the downward spiral. Tying Flies!

After a two year hiatus, I've got the bug again.

It happened this way. For those of you who browse the blogroll, I"m a huge fan of Kevin Fricke. Kevin is the master behind Tenkara Rising, right here in Colorado. Although I'm not much of a Tenkara fan, I am a fan of great photography, great fishing and other local anglers that haunt some of the same waters I do, Clear Creek in particular.

What amazed me was Kevin successfully fishes Clear Creek when others fail. Hmmm. I noticed some time ago that Kevin readily fishes a fly called Amy's Ant. So I started looking around for the pattern. I found most interesting that this pattern was developed by Jack Dennis. One look sold me.

Anything that looks this buggy has to be successful, right? Well as you may have noticed, I've got the colors wrong. Does that make a difference? We'll see. I only had a very limited supply of materials and was so anxious to start tying that I decided to try with what I had on hand.

I thoroughly enjoyed sitting down at the bench again and creating. Now to give it a test run soon!

A beginners guide to a fly fishing life

2018-04-28T13:52:00.000-06:00

On occasion (somewhere in my past) while talking to new anglers I have exaggerated the difficulty of fly fishing. I say difficult because that's what I was told when I decided to switch from spinning and bait to fly fishing.

At this time of my life I've decided that I need to make amends for all my past sins and what could possibly be a bigger sin then exaggeration to our fishing brethren?

1. It really takes no special skill to cast a fly. Like Hank Patterson says, just blast away. You need to let the fish know you're there.

2. You will, however need the most expensive rod and reel you can afford. Even fish recognize good tackle and will undoubtedly be charmed by your use of said tackle.

3. Without a doubt you should learn to tie your owns flies. I suggest you buy somewhere in the area of $800 on a name brand vise and materials. Over your lifetime of fly fishing you can save as much as $1.25 or so for a cup of coffee.

4. It's perfectly okay when your fishing partner catches a small fish, to point to his crotch and loudly make comparisons to his...well, you know.

5. Start writing a blog. You'll be the envy of all fishermen when you post pictures of every fish you catch, share every excuse you've ever used when you don't catch fish and will undoubted end up being a Pro Staff for every company selling everything from coolers to dental floss.

6. Quit responding to comments on said blog. You're famous and above all that.

7. It's perfectly okay to fly fish with worms and salmon eggs as long as you don't get caught.

8. It's vitally important to only be seen on big name destination rivers. If your favorite stream is small and brushy, go at night where you can't be recognized.

9. Only go fishing with someone who's a worse fisherman than you. I can't stress how important your reputation is, especially if the lousy fisherman out fishes you. Oh, and don't ever let anyone know you've gotten skunked!

10. Whatever you do, stay away from fishermen who always catch fish, never fall in the water, never hook themselves in the back of the head or arrive at their destination without their fly rod, reel or wading boots.

There, I feel better!

First trip of the year

2018-04-19T19:52:00.001-06:00

Normally when a guy takes his first fishing trip of the year, he can't wait to get home to answer that one all important question, "How was the fishing?" I wasn't particularly anxious to have to face my friends this time.

I'm sorry to say that the accommodations at Swiftcurrent were perfect. The Big Thompson's flow was perfect and the wildlife viewing was good. The trip was miserable.

If you're waiting for the punchline, there isn't one. I had to admit to myself that perhaps my best days roaming around the mountains of Colorado may be past.

I've lived and played in the Rockies my whole life and never felt the effects of altitude sickness until this trip. For those that don't know, Altitude sickness is the lack of oxygen as you move quickly from one altitude to one higher. I live approximately one mile above sea level. Rocky Mountain National Park is about 2500 feet higher. Not a huge jump, but one that caused the inability to breathe when lying down, headaches, loss of appetite and stumbling around like you're drunk.

The weather was beautiful, especially on Monday. We arrived late Sunday afternoon and decided to just take it easy and unwind. That night while trying to sleep, I continually woke up gasping for breathe. I sleep with a CPAP but it didn't help because I use oxygen at night and I don't normally carry oxygen with me. The next day while we were waiting for the water to warm up, we drove around the area watching for wildlife. We saw a large number of deer and a large herd of elk.

When we got back, Pam decided to take a short hike and I broke out the fishing gear. In this area, the Big Thompson is small water and I really enjoy fishing it. Except the banks are stacked boulders looking to take someone down. After fishing for about an hour, Pam came back and I started to work my way carefully back up the rocks to see how her hike had been. Before I knew what happened, I went down...hard. Fly rod, glasses and me going in different directions. Luckily nothing was seriously hurt.

To add insult to injury, after I pulled myself up I noticed a fly fisherman catch a trout in the area I had been fishing.

At dinner time that evening I grilled some chicken and steak with garlic mashed potatoes and corn on the cob. I couldn't even force myself to eat. That night I had the same problem as the night before.

Tuesday was our last day and Pam had found some really sweet looking water with brookies just begging to be caught. Unfortunately, I was just plain feeling like hell and only wanted to go home and sleep, so we packed it up and went home.

As my 69th birthday approaches I'm left imagining what it will be like without my mountains. If so, my heart is broken.

A rough six months

2018-04-13T11:31:00.002-06:00

I think the Winter of 2018 broke me. It's been the promise of Spring only to be fooled into a false sense of readiness. As I look forward to this week's trip to Rocky Mountain National Park I'm prepared for almost anything...including snow one day and sunny days the next.

I'll enjoy myself if for nothing more than a few days with the wife, some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado and the chance to challenge a few trout on the Big Thompson River as it flows past the back door.

I need a big dose of sunshine to counter the deep well that I have fallen into. We'll see.

My buddy Mark and I have started talking about bucket lists a lot lately. As the years have been flying by it has seemed more important than ever to start checking the lists and making those dreams come true. And true to his word, Mark has started to knock them off the list one at a time.

Mark recently returned from a trip to the San Juan River below Navajo Dam, which was number one on his list. He kindly shared some of his reward for following though on his list.

Meanwhile, number one on my list is to get out of bed tomorrow.

Streamwalker's Journey: A review

2018-04-04T20:43:00.003-06:00

I'd like to be able to take credit for this very fine review of our friend Walt Franklin's new book, Streamwalker's Journey - Fishing the Triple Divide. Truth be told, I haven't ordered it yet; but I will based on this review and of course, my reading of Walt's previous books.

For those of you who follow Rivertop Rambles, Walt's blog, you get just a small sense of the type of writer/outdoorsman he is. Walt looks past the obvious to often give his deeper meaning and if you look, you can as well.

Whether I always agree with Walt or not, I get great pleasure in hearing his take on the natural world and man's impact on that world. Anyone who lives in the natural world should pick up a copy of Walt's book. This review was published in the Trout Unlimited magazine by Dave Ammons.

As a western fly fisherman who has never wet a line east of Colorado, I was drawn into Walt Franklin’s account of fishing a variety of rivers and streams near his home along the Pennsylvania/New York border. The watersheds of three rivers – the Genesee, the Allegheny, and Pine Creek – can be traced to a single source, the triple watershed divide on a rise near Gold, Pennsylvania. Franklin explores the rivers and tributaries he describes as his favorite trout streams as a streamwalker who could “peer into the eyes of…the living spirit of these river systems”.

Franklin shares a mix of imagery, both real and imagined, as he ventures into woods and gorges, following the bluelines of topographic maps to seek new pools while taking note of new side streams for future forays. His journeys, like many of our own, occur “with a fly rod close at hand and remain a work in progress."

He does a nice job of describing encounters with fish and fowl and wild animals that in this region have historically competed with the pressures of commercial-scale agriculture, lumber and mining operations, and more recently with hydro-fracking operations, a source of much angst on his part. I could identify with his notion that the “residues” of society can begin “dissolving in the clear deep holes and boulder-studded pools” of rivers we visit.

As a Colorado guy who believes my home river is comparatively small as western rivers go, what a surprise it was to read of highly productive fishing in tiny plunge pools and streams only four feet wide! Plus, when Franklin meanders briefly into an encounter in the Pecos Wilderness of New Mexico where he met a fisherman who turned him on to the Rio Grande King pattern, one that he then used successfully on his rivers back east, I chuckled aloud. Go figure.

Reflective if at times repetitive (this guy catches a lot of fish!), Franklin shares an active engagement with and love of his home waters. Interspersed with moments of humor—to wit, the porcupine that became an angler—descriptive vignettes and a commitment to conservation, Streamwalker’s Journey is a respectable series of stories that reminds the reader that no matter what waters we fish, we always have something in common.

— Dave Ammons

I will not lie

2018-04-01T12:09:00.002-06:00

Since I'm known as an honest guy who never exaggerates the truth, I've got to admit that I haven't been out yet. And I could make all sorts of far fetched excuses, but I won't. The weather has been flaky and I don't feel it quite yet.

Hell of a note huh? A fishing blog with no fishing. Well...my apologies. I guess maybe it's time to admit that I have other things that I love as much as fishing. It all just depends on my mood and the weather. I'm not complaining because these long breaks help me catch my breath and pay attention to various other things like my wife, household chores and watching reruns of Adam-12 on YouTube.

The good news for anyone who is interested is a couple of trips are coming up. Bought and paid for already! Last week I found Pam messing around on her tablet and asked what she was doing. In response she tilted it towards me and I saw she was visiting the Swiftcurrent website. You may remember that Swiftcurrent is where we stay when we go to Rocky Mountain National Park. This year our first trip will be April 15th for a few days. So, ~~unless it's snowing,~~ we will be fishing and wildlife viewing. I don't think I've gone this early in the year before so it should be interesting.

I thought I'd post a couple of old videos from previous trips for folks to take a look at.

Another trip that's planned is thanks to my buddy Mark. Mark and I have been somewhat obsessed with checking things off our bucket list before we get checked off someone's bucket list. This one is going to be a float trip on the Colorado River. I've always wanted to take Pam on a fishing float trip and the Colorado is a great one to do. Standby for that one.

Happy Easter and Happy Passover to all!

Way back when

2018-03-24T19:37:00.001-06:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah. The plan was to go up to Clear Creek a few days ago. The weather had been bordering on fantastic and I was ready. When I woke up it was cloudy and windy but was supposed to get up to 70 degrees. So, I laid back down thinking I'd go a little later. Didn't make it.

The next day was also supposed to be in the low 70s. When I woke up, the sun was shining and things were looking good. As I was getting ready to go, the clouds moved in and the wind picked up. Nope.

I know that a lot of you are dealing with worse conditions but it's gotten really difficult to push myself out the door lately. I'm not complaining. I'll deal with it when the time is right. In the meantime, I thought I'd tell you a little story.

Back when I was a young whippersnapper I fished whenever I had the opportunity depending on which adult would take me along. As I got a little older and able to drive, my attention turned away from fishing and focused on ~~the fairer sex~~ other things. Fast forward a handful of years and I got married. I developed a new hobby, visiting and photographing old cabins, mines and scenery. It was all this traveling around outdoors that not only renewed my interest in fishing but sparked my still burning appreciation of the state of Colorado.

Here I was transported to the old West. As I walked among the old ruins of 100 year old ruins I thrived. I heard the sounds of a stagecoach pulling up to the stage stop, I heard children playing outside of the old schoolhouse. I heard the sounds of mills operating at old mines and I heard loud voices and laughter coming from an old saloon. Time, nature and vandals have taken their toll. But for a short period of time, I lived our history and I have no regrets.

To Gary...

2018-03-18T12:36:00.001-06:00

Life rarely prepares us for the inevitable time when someone we love passes away. Each passing reminds us that no one is immune and that even though time soothes the pain, it never really goes away.

Such is the case with my old dear friend Gary. I've known Gary, his wife Susie and daughters Renee and Kristin since 1975. Gary and I hit it off immediately and shared many interests including storytelling. No one I'd ever met in my life could spin a yarn like Gary. His Midwest charm would have won over the hardest audience.

Another reason we hit it off so well was his love of fishing. Surprisingly, we actually only fished together a handful of times over the years. We always talked about it. Maybe because we were both still young, working and raising kids, it never happened as much as we would have liked.

Or maybe it was because when he wasn't working, he was in his shop building his next handmade canoe. I was awestruck the times I would visit him in his shop while he painstakingly worked on one of his works of art.

I did have the opportunity one time to go out in one of Gary's canoes. Gary suggested we take it out to Barr Lake State Park and spear carp. Remember, this was before carp were considered game fish. Gary had made special handcrafted spears for the occasion and off we went. I wasn't too keen on doing anything involving carp, but I found out that the sport was really doing it without tipping the canoe and going for a swim. We never speared a carp, we just spent a beautiful day outdoors laughing and drinking beer.

The thing that was always amazing to me is that we would often not see or talk to each other for years as we each went on with our lives and when life threw us back together, it was if no time had passed. The only things that changed were the heads starting to show gray or in my case didn't show at all. We could pick up right where we left off.

My friend Gary passed away last week. I'm sad because I will miss him and the joy he brought to my life. I'm sad because he leaves a beautiful family behind to never hear his laugh again. Rest in peace my friend and we'll meet again...time will not matter.

Spring is coming...trust me

2018-03-16T15:58:00.000-06:00

Spring has to be coming soon, while I was sitting here writing, a wasp landed on my arm! That's not the usual sign of impending Spring though...

Even though the temperatures have been on the rise, so have the winds; which means fire season has started and there are a couple of fires currently burning. Colorado has had a moderately mild Winter although I expect there will be some more snow before the warm weather is officially here to stay.

Enough of the weather, now for the news. I'm hoping to get to Clear Creek tomorrow to check it's condition! It's been too long away but it is supposed to be in the 60s and I'm more than ready. This old body needs some outdoor time.

So, while I'm dreaming about trips to Clear Creek and who knows where else, I found a really wonderful video on another of my favorite places, Rocky Mountain National Park. I hope you'll take the time to "visit" the park with me. (You'll want to view this in full screen mode)

* Special thanks to Amazing Places on our planet for the video

Changes

2018-03-10T16:57:00.003-07:00

While the temperatures are climbing

and we're looking forward to

I'm sittin' here and and thinking

there's nothing left to do.

I often look toward yesterdays

and wish they were today

and sometimes when I do this

there's nothing left to say.

I'd like to wade hip deep

in water pure and blue

and I know with all my heart

you'd feel the same way to.

So my friends as you read these words

take a moment from your day

to praise the lord and thank lucky stars

and please don't lose your way.

For those of you who are going through those changes right now and those that will be, please enjoy this video called Senior Moments by Golf Brooks.

What do you wear?

2018-03-03T16:06:00.001-07:00

As Winter drags itself kicking and screaming into March around the country, the current temperature here in Colorado is sunny and 65 degrees with more of the same predicted for the next ten days. I'm not predicting Spring quite yet as the crocus aren't blooming, the trees aren't budding yet and there is still snow on the ground.

But, the nice weather has got me thinking that my favorite time of the year is just around the corner, which got me remembering fishing trips past. While going through the archives and looking at old pictures I was surprised at the number of pictures that reminded me that I'm no model for a classic fly fisherman. Many of the places I fish are rough and tumble waters that on my best days I won't wade. Others are shallow and small and there is no need to wade.

When the temperature tells me it's time to fish, I'm all about comfort. The only places I wear waders is on the Blue River and the Arkansas River unless the temperatures dictate otherwise.

I can't remember the last time I wore a pair of waders and I'm pretty sure that none of the fly fishing magazines are going to ask me to pose for a cover photo. So my question is, what do you wear on the water?

Meanwhile here in Colorado

2018-02-23T09:14:00.001-07:00

It's been a rough couple of weeks around here in the great West. Winter finally came and along with the snow came the cold. It's been a strange season with above average temperatures and a serious lack of snow. Now it feels like we are playing catch up.

It's nice to see folks like Alan, Drew, Rowan and many others getting out despite the weather. This short video I posted is what it looked like at my house a couple of days ago. Snow with single digit temperatures. Uncommon sense told me to stay home

Meanwhile, my buddy Rob Blumberg has been out in Franklin Tennessee catching fish also. Take a look at this beauty!

Nice job on the Albino Rainbow Rob!

This is a fly fishing post...well, sort of...not really

2018-02-16T15:20:00.002-07:00

While sitting here in front of the computer thinking of what I can write that would be the least bit interesting, even my imagination failed me. The weather here in the front range of Denver has been crazy. Warm for a few days and then cold weather, a little snow and a 70% chance of shack nasties.

While browsing through old pictures (again!) I started focusing on trips we had taken around the state. Back when I was younger, I was content to put up a tent, unroll a sleeping bag and cook over an open fire. As I got older it just seemed natural to change living arrangements while enjoying the outdoors.

Back in the 80s I found a pop up camper that struck my fancy and the price was right. That began a whole new set of adventures for the wife and I and we traveled all over Colorado pulling that old camper.

Even though the camper was old and well used, we sure enjoyed having such luxurious accommodations. Two queen size beds, refrigerator, stove and a port-a-potty! After several years of use and fighting traffic, we said goodbye to the old lady. She had served us well and we made some great memories with her.

We debated getting a fifth wheel camper or a motor home but honestly I couldn't afford the time off it would take to recover from driving in Colorado traffic in the mountains during tourist season. The answer seemed obvious to me. When fishing season came we started checking out the many cabins and lodges at some of our favorite destinations. We weren't looking for deluxe and Colorado is a tourist destination, so there was no shortage of options.

I don't think I have ever enjoyed the outdoors more since we started staying in cabins. Traveling to our destination was quicker, easier and safer and best of all, the cabins are maintained by someone else; they're clean, cozy and comfortable.

I sure am looking forward to next Spring!