tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46881150557996334612024-03-13T08:59:18.155-05:00High Plains FlyFisher"The solution to any problem -- work, love, money, whatever -- is to go fishing, and the worse the problem, the longer the trip should be." --John GierachHighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.comBlogger219125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-25765458150452250002021-11-23T12:40:00.001-06:002021-11-23T12:41:12.744-06:002021 Summer Smallmouth Trip - Hayward WiI Headed North in July with three good friends , a couple of rafts and a plan to fish as many of the amazing smallmouth bass rivers in the area as we could in seven days.
The amount of water available within an hours drive of Hayward is pretty amazing , and that's not including the real gems that visitors like us never get clued into.
We tried to keep our options open and see as much new water as we could, not wanting to end up with tunnel vision and fish the same river and stretch of water all week.
To that end we fished multiple stretches of four different flowages in the week we were up...Namekagon , St Croix , Flambeau and the Chippewa.
This was a "No Mercy" fishing trip...the average day consisted of getting up with the sunrise , driving an hour to the days chosen fishing destination , shuttling a vehicle to the takeout spot and then floating anywhere between 10 to 15 miles of river and ending the day as the last vestiges of light disappeared (or several times by flashlight well after). After picking up the second vehicle and loading up boats and gear it was approaching the midnight hour more than once by the time we pulled back into the little motel parking lot.
No complaints here , Wisconsin is a great state and I love cheese curds and beer as much as the next guy. That being said , I can get both of them 500 miles South in the state I reside in. I wouldn't drive 9 hours to wash down greasy cheese curds with the best beer in the country , but the chance to catch football shaped smallies on topwater bugs that resemble an overgrown salmonfly is a proposition that I just can't say NO to.
Not much else to be said...Beautiful country , good company and topwater smallies. Pure Nirvana!
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KbuvhRNVLM/YZ0t76sxsuI/AAAAAAAAAc0/7PGaRE-vJkkm_KJkSqyTkA3VZ9QwmYIZACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260774.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KbuvhRNVLM/YZ0t76sxsuI/AAAAAAAAAc0/7PGaRE-vJkkm_KJkSqyTkA3VZ9QwmYIZACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260774.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecBNnd7UwAs/YZ0uJDZDIhI/AAAAAAAAAc8/gLzGKOuf-OM50dJxjvZDNO2dWmFbLn9SQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260781.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecBNnd7UwAs/YZ0uJDZDIhI/AAAAAAAAAc8/gLzGKOuf-OM50dJxjvZDNO2dWmFbLn9SQCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260781.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5eFaWqohQs/YZ0unvVHADI/AAAAAAAAAdI/Awu-5v2e3bsxVTuxlSu8vyZIwnCS0ysKACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260771.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5eFaWqohQs/YZ0unvVHADI/AAAAAAAAAdI/Awu-5v2e3bsxVTuxlSu8vyZIwnCS0ysKACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260771.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLoXhi4MBIk/YZ0u1U4wRWI/AAAAAAAAAdM/Yr97CsFYzeI09RgzAwZ2AqndKr9glODYACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260779.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLoXhi4MBIk/YZ0u1U4wRWI/AAAAAAAAAdM/Yr97CsFYzeI09RgzAwZ2AqndKr9glODYACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260779.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--JN7jnHCL3I/YZ0vIvJL3bI/AAAAAAAAAdY/AOQrtLgSbzgy8yzifJ2hdwtlblBb_Mk2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260789.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--JN7jnHCL3I/YZ0vIvJL3bI/AAAAAAAAAdY/AOQrtLgSbzgy8yzifJ2hdwtlblBb_Mk2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260789.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ex7lazXgI18/YZ0vWcu4cEI/AAAAAAAAAdc/tQUflR3g4_8JlySPor9dEWnUe2O6g-wFACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7260791.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ex7lazXgI18/YZ0vWcu4cEI/AAAAAAAAAdc/tQUflR3g4_8JlySPor9dEWnUe2O6g-wFACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7260791.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cM_TBZ2v2aQ/YZ0vj62I_zI/AAAAAAAAAdg/1a5m5mmcjqs4Twk3hBRKE_4jirSRud47QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7270793.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cM_TBZ2v2aQ/YZ0vj62I_zI/AAAAAAAAAdg/1a5m5mmcjqs4Twk3hBRKE_4jirSRud47QCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7270793.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COKLn0kMB_8/YZ0vwpUdNrI/AAAAAAAAAdo/fznUwnGRGwIJJh5PrBP-BuultA_iXfq7gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7270807.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COKLn0kMB_8/YZ0vwpUdNrI/AAAAAAAAAdo/fznUwnGRGwIJJh5PrBP-BuultA_iXfq7gCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7270807.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7PlpTgQpyM/YZ0v59Hw92I/AAAAAAAAAdw/C1l2NaAKeX0MqolK4s2Ind9JHwT6ooy8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7270811.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h7PlpTgQpyM/YZ0v59Hw92I/AAAAAAAAAdw/C1l2NaAKeX0MqolK4s2Ind9JHwT6ooy8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7270811.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM_uTP7aeqE/YZ0xWK5CVYI/AAAAAAAAAeE/khVQvZmYUA0qZXJc1yVG_7fI4bzU8Wn3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7280814.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM_uTP7aeqE/YZ0xWK5CVYI/AAAAAAAAAeE/khVQvZmYUA0qZXJc1yVG_7fI4bzU8Wn3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7280814.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-aU25lpN8M/YZ0xpbF8tpI/AAAAAAAAAeM/8A_zgG6G9ogdZejb5Nmp7oboHwAz2g0jwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290850.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-aU25lpN8M/YZ0xpbF8tpI/AAAAAAAAAeM/8A_zgG6G9ogdZejb5Nmp7oboHwAz2g0jwCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290850.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ6VRjKg8mk/YZ0x-UF97WI/AAAAAAAAAeU/sTutIvjt3GEBxshZvfcvbupfn-TAvvg3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7310865.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ6VRjKg8mk/YZ0x-UF97WI/AAAAAAAAAeU/sTutIvjt3GEBxshZvfcvbupfn-TAvvg3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7310865.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHnR5qZEfeI/YZ0yHMSIhoI/AAAAAAAAAeY/qr-q4tlp8pEibMW3SuT6790bOQTmaMx0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7270805.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHnR5qZEfeI/YZ0yHMSIhoI/AAAAAAAAAeY/qr-q4tlp8pEibMW3SuT6790bOQTmaMx0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7270805.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mc4gLdmvqPo/YZ0yUN3lCsI/AAAAAAAAAeg/TykHa7cds-wcOotfCNWHbQ60TcqLnxC_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7280828.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mc4gLdmvqPo/YZ0yUN3lCsI/AAAAAAAAAeg/TykHa7cds-wcOotfCNWHbQ60TcqLnxC_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7280828.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IUw1tmwccg/YZ0yiyTMt4I/AAAAAAAAAeo/Ds_ISaoI8Ggn8_0dK12XAUXPcM31ZHoFACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290833.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IUw1tmwccg/YZ0yiyTMt4I/AAAAAAAAAeo/Ds_ISaoI8Ggn8_0dK12XAUXPcM31ZHoFACLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290833.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8mugYQXZYNs/YZ0ytqAzqTI/AAAAAAAAAew/aWHSV4vp330DCO_nsq3jncXNW2rKZuTWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290845.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8mugYQXZYNs/YZ0ytqAzqTI/AAAAAAAAAew/aWHSV4vp330DCO_nsq3jncXNW2rKZuTWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290845.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KdnqMriRhOQ/YZ0y3SHa1NI/AAAAAAAAAe4/-8Uf57YL0bQaMfLBvN40LoLYSwfPmByIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290835.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KdnqMriRhOQ/YZ0y3SHa1NI/AAAAAAAAAe4/-8Uf57YL0bQaMfLBvN40LoLYSwfPmByIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290835.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-92MVZCPZc78/YZ0y_XuV1EI/AAAAAAAAAfA/qt6ECtBD-AQ8eP7xuzA6rkh3nUe6hBa2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290831.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-92MVZCPZc78/YZ0y_XuV1EI/AAAAAAAAAfA/qt6ECtBD-AQ8eP7xuzA6rkh3nUe6hBa2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290831.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JzK6cjWy0kk/YZ0zRI4GRLI/AAAAAAAAAfI/6Gf13u1ugwIoTAvFJfi_v5ak-AlMAtO-gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7300853.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JzK6cjWy0kk/YZ0zRI4GRLI/AAAAAAAAAfI/6Gf13u1ugwIoTAvFJfi_v5ak-AlMAtO-gCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7300853.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sLqj1MbOk1E/YZ0zbXY5ivI/AAAAAAAAAfM/Q2Z3oH42vEI2ldnATpG3iE27h2SgAJlUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7290851.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sLqj1MbOk1E/YZ0zbXY5ivI/AAAAAAAAAfM/Q2Z3oH42vEI2ldnATpG3iE27h2SgAJlUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7290851.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NBfxymCY7rw/YZ0zyhaFwLI/AAAAAAAAAfY/Ey-pOWQ1ogUuyGLDgoCLhftViamnX-SdwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7270795.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NBfxymCY7rw/YZ0zyhaFwLI/AAAAAAAAAfY/Ey-pOWQ1ogUuyGLDgoCLhftViamnX-SdwCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7270795.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLkP6urLZdg/YZ0z_NJNugI/AAAAAAAAAfc/9DqN0X381Js1rtSH3YQSUhwYtN04WHcAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P8010873.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLkP6urLZdg/YZ0z_NJNugI/AAAAAAAAAfc/9DqN0X381Js1rtSH3YQSUhwYtN04WHcAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P8010873.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJ_L6DdaBoI/YZ00KrM-CNI/AAAAAAAAAfk/ZaOMdBNv54AR0lD-YKGhYFBUbdBxt_zmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/P7300856.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="600" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJ_L6DdaBoI/YZ00KrM-CNI/AAAAAAAAAfk/ZaOMdBNv54AR0lD-YKGhYFBUbdBxt_zmgCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/P7300856.JPG"/></a></div>
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-62543901854502994052021-11-18T11:37:00.000-06:002021-11-18T11:37:06.761-06:00Late Fall Smallmouth TripOne last three day float trip chasing smallies before Mother Nature crashes Winter down upon us with a vengeance. Luckily flows were good or the shortened days and recent time change would have made the 20 miles a little optimistic for a 3 day float.
The fishing was definitely on the slow side , probably brought ten fish to hand and none were over 14". Not sure what the water temp was running but those little guys felt like you'd pulled them out of an ice chest when releasing them!
On the bright side the Fall colors were beautiful and I had the river to myself for the entire three days , didn't see a soul on the entire trip.
Nothing like three days of river solitude to put life back in perspective and energize the soul until the next trip.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8DV-UdYwco/YZaMai8q_lI/AAAAAAAAAaI/cCdXMzSStIwFQUQT39ZFc3kofaSHt7xRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091089.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8DV-UdYwco/YZaMai8q_lI/AAAAAAAAAaI/cCdXMzSStIwFQUQT39ZFc3kofaSHt7xRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091089.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9KLvrpwYfU/YZaMyB79kBI/AAAAAAAAAa4/6QI0HEBCqw4C-UDH8c5h34CqAfbJG_1UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091088.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9KLvrpwYfU/YZaMyB79kBI/AAAAAAAAAa4/6QI0HEBCqw4C-UDH8c5h34CqAfbJG_1UQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091088.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XC-Bm7hSjrU/YZaNYZzFulI/AAAAAAAAAbA/4TM2sxdPt60gfoD-oVEHTooL6dtFLFZmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081081.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XC-Bm7hSjrU/YZaNYZzFulI/AAAAAAAAAbA/4TM2sxdPt60gfoD-oVEHTooL6dtFLFZmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081081.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdNTX9sK8YQ/YZaNYc1zfVI/AAAAAAAAAbE/QAZer-QclQM8FMExaF-fKmyIO4FRHiraQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091087.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdNTX9sK8YQ/YZaNYc1zfVI/AAAAAAAAAbE/QAZer-QclQM8FMExaF-fKmyIO4FRHiraQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091087.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0HoWfpMJBck/YZaNZeQ5VAI/AAAAAAAAAbI/cdTg6vijl2oPoHPvvVwFYnEiGpkFEUDHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091098.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0HoWfpMJBck/YZaNZeQ5VAI/AAAAAAAAAbI/cdTg6vijl2oPoHPvvVwFYnEiGpkFEUDHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091098.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byCt5-NWd18/YZaNlM0Qg9I/AAAAAAAAAbM/H6pYJ90C4HUYNh8ZOdXEBY8rlSQONiZAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081065.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byCt5-NWd18/YZaNlM0Qg9I/AAAAAAAAAbM/H6pYJ90C4HUYNh8ZOdXEBY8rlSQONiZAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081065.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukV6CwmRKSM/YZaOEGAJjYI/AAAAAAAAAbg/VJQKMg1rIbENetT5iqhcs5nLqK09YKTYACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081070.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukV6CwmRKSM/YZaOEGAJjYI/AAAAAAAAAbg/VJQKMg1rIbENetT5iqhcs5nLqK09YKTYACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081070.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KHQeCPQLuU/YZaOEgCtR-I/AAAAAAAAAbk/7s7gz9S1KY4_KHoDG32X1vsFs4m_QeGvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081071.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KHQeCPQLuU/YZaOEgCtR-I/AAAAAAAAAbk/7s7gz9S1KY4_KHoDG32X1vsFs4m_QeGvwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081071.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2eG2hy3BQE/YZaOfMTvc6I/AAAAAAAAAb4/DgCjo4Lu_QorNbAWysfRyHRQxwapuwJ_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081076.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2eG2hy3BQE/YZaOfMTvc6I/AAAAAAAAAb4/DgCjo4Lu_QorNbAWysfRyHRQxwapuwJ_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081076.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4d2hUwXsEj4/YZaOeRbkVmI/AAAAAAAAAbw/tG0sdg0ffKsFUnY0hdoumAZeLzpUtmhrACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB081081.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4d2hUwXsEj4/YZaOeRbkVmI/AAAAAAAAAbw/tG0sdg0ffKsFUnY0hdoumAZeLzpUtmhrACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB081081.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iXP0JVDP2a0/YZaOfOKNz_I/AAAAAAAAAb0/wQdm9rwLWm8FWIzVkIfr5pVCv07R74gqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091084.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iXP0JVDP2a0/YZaOfOKNz_I/AAAAAAAAAb0/wQdm9rwLWm8FWIzVkIfr5pVCv07R74gqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091084.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWWynKEkwfQ/YZaOf24_8rI/AAAAAAAAAcA/4_o7RCCyRgcjnhQCfIw-DL6Fr9iyHOJhACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091104.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oWWynKEkwfQ/YZaOf24_8rI/AAAAAAAAAcA/4_o7RCCyRgcjnhQCfIw-DL6Fr9iyHOJhACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091104.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR3_qYQQ40k/YZaOfidH1LI/AAAAAAAAAb8/2EMC4aauKa0cz04tR5h_OYzgpQX2bNEbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091110.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR3_qYQQ40k/YZaOfidH1LI/AAAAAAAAAb8/2EMC4aauKa0cz04tR5h_OYzgpQX2bNEbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091110.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CJb6aBZyoys/YZaOgWQ0uKI/AAAAAAAAAcE/wJHmXPTf_5IuyeqJNLSM-xgSku4wR27vQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091118.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CJb6aBZyoys/YZaOgWQ0uKI/AAAAAAAAAcE/wJHmXPTf_5IuyeqJNLSM-xgSku4wR27vQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091118.JPG"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOAUZLidgz0/YZaO7Zk5edI/AAAAAAAAAcY/flvq9L6JQEg_SWWpqy_9K8_0s37kKtJqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PB091102.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; clear: left; float: left;"><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOAUZLidgz0/YZaO7Zk5edI/AAAAAAAAAcY/flvq9L6JQEg_SWWpqy_9K8_0s37kKtJqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/PB091102.JPG"/></a></div>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-87311482699216793872021-09-22T15:58:00.002-05:002021-09-22T15:58:55.470-05:00Gravel Bar Life - Social Distancing with Smallmouth<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sC79XYsrio/YUuUhvPkb9I/AAAAAAAAAXg/-vJmMspUUegxX3XxRKtY1j5deoRrTjDIACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8280899.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sC79XYsrio/YUuUhvPkb9I/AAAAAAAAAXg/-vJmMspUUegxX3XxRKtY1j5deoRrTjDIACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8280899.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AT4n0A1VyQI/YUuXdOdgChI/AAAAAAAAAX8/_wmb0JNIeGshc_YgjTRDEAY00uROJawmACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130956.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AT4n0A1VyQI/YUuXdOdgChI/AAAAAAAAAX8/_wmb0JNIeGshc_YgjTRDEAY00uROJawmACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130956.JPG"/></a></div>
These days I think we can all agree that the need to distance ones self from the craziness of the world around us is at an all time high. Society seems to be imploding upon itself to the point where rational, intelligent conversation with others is now a thing of the past. We're all divided on politics , we're divided on vaccination , we're divided on mask wearing , it truly seems like we just can't all get along anymore.
My answer for all the bullshit is a simple one...find a stretch of river with very little access and even fewer people , launch the boat with enough shit for a week (even though it's only a 3-day trip) and enjoy some peace and solitude with Mother Nature.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDkrrhT-qII/YUt0hMKaSaI/AAAAAAAAAU8/PYQZ4FzL_SgyUrbBW7huj7XTf6Km6ZyXQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9120941.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDkrrhT-qII/YUt0hMKaSaI/AAAAAAAAAU8/PYQZ4FzL_SgyUrbBW7huj7XTf6Km6ZyXQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9120941.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23NK0RMZ_ow/YUt1h06kjqI/AAAAAAAAAVM/o6Gs4-YxBPYLpW_bstSPh8kGs7dEGCPawCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8290923.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23NK0RMZ_ow/YUt1h06kjqI/AAAAAAAAAVM/o6Gs4-YxBPYLpW_bstSPh8kGs7dEGCPawCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8290923.JPG"/></a></div>
I've found that my psyche requires at least one of these trips a month or my internal pressure valve reaches it's blow-off point. And trust me , that's not a pleasant thing for anyone!
With a few extra days off last week, I made the usual lists and started the gear pile in the front of the garage in preparation for heading out to one of my favorite rivers to "Get Away" on.
The mid-September weather still felt more like August with highs in the 90's but the shortening nights were finally seeing temps drop down below 70 degrees , perfect weather for a few days of Gravel Bar Life.
I had 3 days to float 20 miles and no schedules or concerns (except the all too real multi-day float trip issue of "Did I bring enough Beer?") to deter me from enjoying my escape from society.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOpGIOpZtBE/YUuJuFcjjxI/AAAAAAAAAVs/thV2hrkPpso80KZWAFZTB57w4XvzfcMiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9120944.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOpGIOpZtBE/YUuJuFcjjxI/AAAAAAAAAVs/thV2hrkPpso80KZWAFZTB57w4XvzfcMiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9120944.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8yTjt-q-G0/YUuKAAzCpxI/AAAAAAAAAV0/LKGFSXPn0AAIeuW3C0NNHMI8eyblcs8YgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130971.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8yTjt-q-G0/YUuKAAzCpxI/AAAAAAAAAV0/LKGFSXPn0AAIeuW3C0NNHMI8eyblcs8YgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130971.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ss4fDtH2ST4/YUuY3GJYDWI/AAAAAAAAAYM/3MkbWbVDJjEw1RkgvCaNsZ7Se74qGQiDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140987.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ss4fDtH2ST4/YUuY3GJYDWI/AAAAAAAAAYM/3MkbWbVDJjEw1RkgvCaNsZ7Se74qGQiDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140987.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKGxS4KPKj8/YUuKLfQKJJI/AAAAAAAAAV4/wTPYSEoUCG0k8XY4NJ8uofMrWpIaT32AQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130948.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKGxS4KPKj8/YUuKLfQKJJI/AAAAAAAAAV4/wTPYSEoUCG0k8XY4NJ8uofMrWpIaT32AQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130948.JPG"/></a></div>
I put in a solid float the first day , somewhere around 8 1/2 miles , to get to a campsite that I always enjoy staying over at.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgCIr_ptn8c/YUt2slmxg_I/AAAAAAAAAVY/u8eTDxJjhnMkRnWTBtrG7uRjL5uFTNP7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130962.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgCIr_ptn8c/YUt2slmxg_I/AAAAAAAAAVY/u8eTDxJjhnMkRnWTBtrG7uRjL5uFTNP7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130962.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swmASwvrPPo/YUt27nYnpaI/AAAAAAAAAVc/ErAxVaqImI8jukQ9infpD2hCg_sUh1lJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8280886.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swmASwvrPPo/YUt27nYnpaI/AAAAAAAAAVc/ErAxVaqImI8jukQ9infpD2hCg_sUh1lJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8280886.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gpMomdh2K_4/YUuT_TbqGNI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/EUkIxIemfecfO1S9Rc4EFFzV4N7-jh4RgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130964.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gpMomdh2K_4/YUuT_TbqGNI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/EUkIxIemfecfO1S9Rc4EFFzV4N7-jh4RgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130964.JPG"/></a></div>
The fishing was good , the water was cool and clear, the beer was ice cold every time I stuck my hand in the cooler and best of all I only saw 2 other people all day. Who said there's no such thing as a perfect world?? Well , there were the two kayakers I guess.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5h-5DsgNWA/YUuXP1Vp13I/AAAAAAAAAX4/t63gZHzAC8IT2RHUPA2NiXslwOlACJK9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8290933.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5h-5DsgNWA/YUuXP1Vp13I/AAAAAAAAAX4/t63gZHzAC8IT2RHUPA2NiXslwOlACJK9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P8290933.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dmp9VPQ_8PQ/YUuRGj66eXI/AAAAAAAAAXI/WlFVdoIpFlwdyw0zVLuGa7D8LkeDRkfGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P6050753.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dmp9VPQ_8PQ/YUuRGj66eXI/AAAAAAAAAXI/WlFVdoIpFlwdyw0zVLuGa7D8LkeDRkfGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P6050753.JPG"/></a></div>
The second day was just more of the same , after a big homemade breakfast burrito I packed up camp and hit the water.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q9dJER9tDB4/YUuKqnAVXtI/AAAAAAAAAWM/eY5WLaDH24oGWwX8pwoNH8TYKaHrY0FxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130966.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q9dJER9tDB4/YUuKqnAVXtI/AAAAAAAAAWM/eY5WLaDH24oGWwX8pwoNH8TYKaHrY0FxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130966.JPG"/></a></div>
The fish were sitting in all the holes you expected them to be and enough of them took interest in the flies I was throwing to make for another great day. These weren't trophy size smallies by any means , mostly 10-14 inches with the occasional 16-17 incher coming out to play. What I call "Fun Fish".
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2KTJZcMJ9I/YUuK5yaPNNI/AAAAAAAAAWU/nv3Xj_baQGMTSyMyezi2f5I4qgVDGd0hACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140986.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2KTJZcMJ9I/YUuK5yaPNNI/AAAAAAAAAWU/nv3Xj_baQGMTSyMyezi2f5I4qgVDGd0hACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140986.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6cSLIt5qvY/YUuLGOG7s9I/AAAAAAAAAWY/9Ic-WrKF70g_ZkrGuchgyHFa8t3G-MqJACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130955.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6cSLIt5qvY/YUuLGOG7s9I/AAAAAAAAAWY/9Ic-WrKF70g_ZkrGuchgyHFa8t3G-MqJACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9130955.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UDCyUi8LQw/YUuLRr4VQYI/AAAAAAAAAWc/HubS2PNdgosEMRDg4dIfbgAupeE9kts9ACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140988.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UDCyUi8LQw/YUuLRr4VQYI/AAAAAAAAAWc/HubS2PNdgosEMRDg4dIfbgAupeE9kts9ACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140988.JPG"/></a></div>
That night I set up camp on "Raccoon Island" , a spot that garnered it's name from a previous years experience with the local wildlife. Another of my favorite river camp spots, this island has good fishable water on both sides
and a nice riffle 20 feet from the tent door for that sleep ambience you just can't get from an electronic device.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tixVrdhIKFk/YUuLi1KjmiI/AAAAAAAAAWo/wkiW65dEljo3_e3qXdm1tpnYt27P5cERQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140994.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tixVrdhIKFk/YUuLi1KjmiI/AAAAAAAAAWo/wkiW65dEljo3_e3qXdm1tpnYt27P5cERQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140994.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sfnHCwHJRO8/YUuL43JQ8cI/AAAAAAAAAWw/nr9RgqsJuAML9GxLIiMxtBmFHEdanqIwgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140999.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sfnHCwHJRO8/YUuL43JQ8cI/AAAAAAAAAWw/nr9RgqsJuAML9GxLIiMxtBmFHEdanqIwgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140999.JPG"/></a></div>
5 Star dining on a river bank is a thing of beauty...Prime New York Strip Steak , Fresh picked corn , mashed red potatoes and a chunk of garlic bread. A $20 meal with a $1000 view , my kind of eatery.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccg8Z95zhJs/YUuMCiWqIfI/AAAAAAAAAW0/sWn8HKng7ts2qI6V7pSYe654nweY0AwNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141000.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccg8Z95zhJs/YUuMCiWqIfI/AAAAAAAAAW0/sWn8HKng7ts2qI6V7pSYe654nweY0AwNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141000.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVZR97MwkSk/YUuML6fJJCI/AAAAAAAAAW8/MJwpRQ3wh60B-GhHqf260mFIRhaUwRQ2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141008.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVZR97MwkSk/YUuML6fJJCI/AAAAAAAAAW8/MJwpRQ3wh60B-GhHqf260mFIRhaUwRQ2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141008.JPG"/></a></div>
The third morning broke just as beautiful as the last two. I picked up camp after another breakfast burrito and started making my way down the last section of river towards the takeout.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0rUoG1UQ4U/YUuUSHnu5dI/AAAAAAAAAXY/x3ROGeHtqZckvxWHICGqxaGBpUiied56gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140992.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0rUoG1UQ4U/YUuUSHnu5dI/AAAAAAAAAXY/x3ROGeHtqZckvxWHICGqxaGBpUiied56gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140992.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4teNYrxoTs4/YUuX0S6Gr-I/AAAAAAAAAYE/cFKdM60-t8EWnMmlglPLJi1jL7jdeb2XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9160665.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4teNYrxoTs4/YUuX0S6Gr-I/AAAAAAAAAYE/cFKdM60-t8EWnMmlglPLJi1jL7jdeb2XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9160665.JPG"/></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zsa_vDfoCPw/YUuUvwAQTGI/AAAAAAAAAXk/TqqVSaEokTs0eA9GS4emcersNH1Jq1fqACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140985.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zsa_vDfoCPw/YUuUvwAQTGI/AAAAAAAAAXk/TqqVSaEokTs0eA9GS4emcersNH1Jq1fqACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9140985.JPG"/></a></div>
As I got closer to the access I saw my 3rd, 4th and 5th person of the three day trip. Three guys in a canoe and kayak who had paddled up from the access I was taking out.
Another successful social distancing trip , the closest proximity I'd been to anything living in the last 72 hours was a blue heron and a family of otters , and none of us had any problems getting along.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T45-r45rY-o/YUuVWZSyDRI/AAAAAAAAAXw/vsUiKlFj5EAy5DsdD3t4PLUAYzpnAIiBgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141030.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T45-r45rY-o/YUuVWZSyDRI/AAAAAAAAAXw/vsUiKlFj5EAy5DsdD3t4PLUAYzpnAIiBgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/P9141030.JPG"/></a></div>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-50494087535979054712016-11-08T14:20:00.000-06:002016-11-08T14:20:00.574-06:00Touring the RustBelt...#Tarplife Style<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA283396_zpsmhzrgz9t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA283396_zpsmhzrgz9t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA283396_zpsmhzrgz9t.jpg"></a><br />
3,340 miles of windshield time...3 states and 1 sovereign Indian nation...5 rivers...and enough Great lakes steel to make it worth every minute of drive time and dollar spent.<br />
Last year I made my first trip North to chase steelhead in the Great lakes area and quickly decided that this kind of trip needed to be a yearly adventure, which it officially now is. Just got back home Sunday from round two of the Rustbelt Steelhead Tour. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033546_zpsln0whzmu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033546_zpsln0whzmu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033546_zpsln0whzmu.jpg"></a> <br />
Last year was way too good for a first time steelheader... beautiful weather, a local house to crash in, rivers with perfect flows and cooperative fish. Those just aren't the typical steelheading conditions I've always heard about. Rain for days, blown out rivers, fish that just won't take a fly, that's what I thought steelheading was all about. Not to fear, the steelhead gods must have somehow sensed my angst and decided to have me pay a few of those dues on this years trip. It seemed that every day at least one of the rivers I decided to fish would be unfishable due to water conditions (this due to the rain that came in waves on a recurring pattern of every other day).<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB023514_zps9lmld84a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB023514_zps9lmld84a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB023514_zps9lmld84a.jpg"></a><br />
Luckily the area I based in has lots of water choices within 100 miles in either direction. After checking the USGS gauges first thing each morning it was simply a matter of putting in a little drive time to find decent conditions.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB043578_zpssrp3cgtf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB043578_zpssrp3cgtf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB043578_zpssrp3cgtf.jpg"></a><br />
From the mudhole I called basecamp for the week, all five of the rivers I fished (and a few I didn't) were accessible within an hour or so drive if I didn't mind pushing the posted speed limit just a tad. The morning routine was to crawl out of the tent and make a quick hot breakfast, load all of the previously wet gear that had been drying out in the tent overnight back in the car, check the river gauges, make a tentative plan, point the car in that direction and head out.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313424_zpsrgewqyt4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313424_zpsrgewqyt4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313424_zpsrgewqyt4.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA303404_zpse56mcvpq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA303404_zpse56mcvpq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA303404_zpse56mcvpq.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313461_zpsj6kravlk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313461_zpsj6kravlk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313461_zpsj6kravlk.jpg"></a><br />
As it turned out, often times my first choice didn't turn out to be the correct one. When that happened I cut my losses and worked up a plan B, which occasionally didn't pan out either, requiring a plan C. Thus you see how the 3340 miles of windshield time were reached.<br />
I admit that I was a little particular in how and where I wanted to fish. Some of the closer waters definitely would have fished well at times but because of the lack of good swinging water with the two-hander and the amount of fishermen I witnessed I was more than willing to drive somewhere else. The fishing might not have been as good but one thing you'll notice in most all of my river shots is a lack of other people. I worked hard at trying to find pieces of water that were in good enough shape to fish but weren't lined bank to bank with other fishermen. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013468_zpst9v2csvi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013468_zpst9v2csvi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013468_zpst9v2csvi.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB043557_zpswrdekeqa.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB043557_zpswrdekeqa.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB043557_zpswrdekeqa.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB043559_zpsydbdwacv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB043559_zpsydbdwacv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB043559_zpsydbdwacv.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033543_zps0dkvf6ml.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033543_zps0dkvf6ml.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033543_zps0dkvf6ml.jpg"></a><br />
I started to say that this trip wasn't about catching fish, but that would be a lie. All fishing trips are about catching fish, if they weren't we'd leave all that expensive gear at home. Without a doubt, I could have caught considerably more fish if I'd been willing to share the water with other fishermen and chuck eggs under indicators. I have absolutely no problem with this type of fishing and have even been known to tie on the odd egg pattern myself when all else fails. I'm good with it...I just didn't drive 15 hours to do it. For me it was all about the two handed rod and trying to swing up a steelhead or two.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB043567_zpsy66eto7c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB043567_zpsy66eto7c.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB043567_zpsy66eto7c.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313450_zpsod9pqult.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313450_zpsod9pqult.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313450_zpsod9pqult.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033538_zpszqrlmq6o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033538_zpszqrlmq6o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033538_zpszqrlmq6o.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313437_zpsnutgqm8o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313437_zpsnutgqm8o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313437_zpsnutgqm8o.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033539_zpszmvchkmd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033539_zpszmvchkmd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033539_zpszmvchkmd.jpg"></a><br />
The fishing itself is hard to put into words. I wouldn't say that the fishing was good, due to the fact that I had to work my ass off for practically every fish I caught. From the drives to get there to the long hikes in to find less pressured water and the often less than optimal water conditions, everything was a little tougher this time around.<br />
What I can say about the fishing is that it was extremely rewarding. Every fish caught felt like it was the result of good planning and hard work. These fish were deserving of a good smoke and some time spent sitting streamside after landing one to simply enjoy everything coming together.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313443_zpskqdkkmc1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313443_zpskqdkkmc1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313443_zpskqdkkmc1.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013472_zps3mlu9cop.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013472_zps3mlu9cop.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013472_zps3mlu9cop.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033517_zpskn4twhmk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033517_zpskn4twhmk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033517_zpskn4twhmk.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013491_zpsjj8k6kn0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013491_zpsjj8k6kn0.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013491_zpsjj8k6kn0.jpg"></a><br />
Of the nine fish I landed during the week, I twice bested my largest fish from last year and ended up with one fish in particular that felt like the fish of a lifetime for this Kansas guy. While fishing one of the more famous local NY rivers I hooked up and landed a beautiful 32" wild hen. This one fish made the entire trip for me and it was hard to wipe the smile off my face for the remainder of the trip, regardless of what it threw at me.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB023500_zps844zrzwl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB023500_zps844zrzwl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB023500_zps844zrzwl.jpg"></a><br />
To make it even better I was fishing with a good buddy from the area who was there to tail the fish for me. While I admittedly enjoy fishing alone, there are times when it's nice to have someone there to share a great moment with and this was one of those times.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB023502_zps8hwpdpi5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB023502_zps8hwpdpi5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB023502_zps8hwpdpi5.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB023501_zps26c7yjlc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB023501_zps26c7yjlc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB023501_zps26c7yjlc.jpg"></a><br />
While the majority of the actual fishing was done alone, I wouldn't have been nearly as successful without the help of several local friends who advised me on water conditions, sent me maps on river accesses and were always just a call away if I had any questions. That kind of knowledge is something you just can't do without when it comes to this kind of fishing and I owe those guys bigtime.<br />
By the time the trip was over and it was time to pack up I really felt that I had accomplished something. I know they're just fish, and catching one isn't what most people would consider any kind of great feat. But for me it felt different. I'd driven halfway across the country with a truck full of gear and a basic plan and by some stroke of luck things had actually worked out nicely despite the somewhat adverse conditions.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013489_zpsmhhsesqi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013489_zpsmhhsesqi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013489_zpsmhhsesqi.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA263392_zpsi3fquu4n.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA263392_zpsi3fquu4n.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA263392_zpsi3fquu4n.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313439_zpsdr9fakdr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313439_zpsdr9fakdr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313439_zpsdr9fakdr.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033525_zpsiuka1m5o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033525_zpsiuka1m5o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033525_zpsiuka1m5o.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013464_zps5i25k0to.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013464_zps5i25k0to.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013464_zps5i25k0to.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313459_zpswwjel7zm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313459_zpswwjel7zm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313459_zpswwjel7zm.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013474_zpsdphonkjg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013474_zpsdphonkjg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013474_zpsdphonkjg.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB013482_zpskrofqsbt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB013482_zpskrofqsbt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB013482_zpskrofqsbt.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PA313445_zpskpwsytvj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PA313445_zpskpwsytvj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PA313445_zpskpwsytvj.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033520_zpsqqpsgcwf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033520_zpsqqpsgcwf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033520_zpsqqpsgcwf.jpg"></a><br />
What can I say, the old blind squirrel scenario plays out again... <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB043575_zpsfch9b27f.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB043575_zpsfch9b27f.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB043575_zpsfch9b27f.jpg"></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69035/PB033519_zps27aq1e2h.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69035/PB033519_zps27aq1e2h.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB033519_zps27aq1e2h.jpg"></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-70778631387565216482016-09-30T23:41:00.000-05:002016-09-30T23:41:02.255-05:00Some Much Needed River Time...Part Two<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223295_zpszxbawvwa.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223295_zpszxbawvwa.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223295_zpszxbawvwa.jpg"/></a><br />
I arrived home from my smallmouth trip early Tuesday evening and didn't even bother to unload anything except my dirty clothes bag and camp dishes that required cleaning. By Thursday morning I was already heading back South for another round on my favorite trout stream in the state of Missouri. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223298_zps6dxbollc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223298_zps6dxbollc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223298_zps6dxbollc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223301_zpssw8wev7j.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223301_zpssw8wev7j.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223301_zpssw8wev7j.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223302_zpshobiol9d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223302_zpshobiol9d.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223302_zpshobiol9d.jpg"/></a><br />
I showed up just after noon and picked a proper spot for camp right on the edge of the river. Not the best afternoon shade but the trade-off was the sound of a nearby riffle to drift off to sleep to.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223315_zpsum9d3jxt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223315_zpsum9d3jxt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223315_zpsum9d3jxt.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223309_zpsdwgwo3oj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223309_zpsdwgwo3oj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223309_zpsdwgwo3oj.jpg"/></a><br />
I was meeting a couple of friends for this part of the trip but they wouldn't show up until Friday morning so I got camp setup and then kicked back in a comfortable chair with a nice view and a cold beer.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233331_zpsd3gc11ea.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233331_zpsd3gc11ea.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233331_zpsd3gc11ea.jpg"/></a><br />
With three days of steady fishing ahead of me I took it easy that first afternoon. The spey rod was broken out and I spent a few hours swinging some small streamers in the run upstream from camp. A couple of small fish were caught but the real intent of the exercise was to get in some much needed casting practice.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223318_zpsxgtpbxoc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223318_zpsxgtpbxoc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223318_zpsxgtpbxoc.jpg"/></a><br />
That evening, after throwing together a quick dinner, I kicked back around a blazing campfire and had a few more adult beverages to finish off what was a great start to the weekend.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233327_zpsdk32eemg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233327_zpsdk32eemg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233327_zpsdk32eemg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9223325_zpstghnsor1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9223325_zpstghnsor1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9223325_zpstghnsor1.jpg"/></a><br />
The rest of the group pulled into the campground Friday morning and after getting tents and gear unloaded we decided on a gameplan for the day and headed out.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233339_zpsxpowwhh1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233339_zpsxpowwhh1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233339_zpsxpowwhh1.jpg"/></a><br />
This is by far one of the prettiest stretches of water in the Ozarks and a real gem when it comes to fishing as well. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233337_zpsmbm5qxgx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233337_zpsmbm5qxgx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233337_zpsmbm5qxgx.jpg"/></a><br />
Smallmouth in the very upper reaches, wild rainbows dominating the middle river and good numbers of meat-eating browns and even a few white bass and stripers in the lower river. Pretty much everything a streamer guy could ask for in a body of water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233333_zpsryeiisi6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233333_zpsryeiisi6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233333_zpsryeiisi6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243359_zpsyrxycxgl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243359_zpsyrxycxgl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243359_zpsyrxycxgl.jpg"/></a><br />
We floated the wild rainbow section on the first day and while a few streamers were thrown along the way it was mostly a nymphing game. While I don't plan many outings anymore which are basically what we call "bobber trips", this is one river where a few days nymphing up colorful wild rainbows and scrappy browns is a true pleasure.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243347_zpspxwlqqzd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243347_zpspxwlqqzd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243347_zpspxwlqqzd.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243349_zpstrf2byjr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243349_zpstrf2byjr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243349_zpstrf2byjr.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9253375_zpszam8hyyc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9253375_zpszam8hyyc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9253375_zpszam8hyyc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9253374_zpsqgnlskie.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9253374_zpsqgnlskie.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9253374_zpsqgnlskie.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9253379_zpskz1uad6y.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9253379_zpskz1uad6y.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9253379_zpskz1uad6y.jpg"/></a><br />
Daylong floats accompanied with the usual streamside lunch (fried chicken, of course) followed by a night of sitting around camp stargazing and telling stories with a cold beer and a good cigar was pretty much how the weekend played out.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243354_zpsojdx1pbn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243354_zpsojdx1pbn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243354_zpsojdx1pbn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243371_zpscplqncea.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243371_zpscplqncea.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243371_zpscplqncea.jpg"/></a><br />
Saturday we floated the lower stretch of river and got to sample some of the diversity that this stream offers in the way of fish, you can't beat these two species when it comes to heart pounding streamer action.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243368_zpsgxvmcgkh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243368_zpsgxvmcgkh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243368_zpsgxvmcgkh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243370_zpsgrlvoozb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243370_zpsgrlvoozb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243370_zpsgrlvoozb.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243362_zpsgxi5hbaz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243362_zpsgxi5hbaz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243362_zpsgxi5hbaz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243355_zpsnbvb00wv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243355_zpsnbvb00wv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243355_zpsnbvb00wv.jpg"/></a><br />
Sunday it was back to the middle river for a shorter float that would put us back at camp in time to get packed up and on the road at a decent hour. <br />
The fishing itself was very enjoyable, the numbers were about average and the fish size pretty much fell into that category as well, with the exception of a few real beauties that made it boatside over the course of the trip. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243363_zpswlejvwrj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243363_zpswlejvwrj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243363_zpswlejvwrj.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9253380_zps3ya0lx8y.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9253380_zps3ya0lx8y.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9253380_zps3ya0lx8y.jpg"/></a><br />
While the trees havn't started to turn yet and the daytime temps were still warm enough to warrant a few quick dips in the spring fed waters throughout the day, the evenings were beginning to take on a subtle flavor of Fall. Just cool enough that the campfire was a welcome addition and not simply window dressing. And that sleeping bag actually got used for the first trip in who knows how long. The quiet and solitude that awaited us each evening at camp was the true indicator though, just a few weeks prior we would have had to share our riverside abode with more than just the local wildlife.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9233330_zps9kd7ot9l.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9233330_zps9kd7ot9l.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9233330_zps9kd7ot9l.jpg"/></a><br />
A great week to start off what I hope is a Fall full of many more fishing opportunities just like this one.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9253382_zpsfq1rzczh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9253382_zpsfq1rzczh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9253382_zpsfq1rzczh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9243351_zpspnlcqfmv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9243351_zpspnlcqfmv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9243351_zpspnlcqfmv.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-57614243489496636692016-09-27T17:36:00.003-05:002016-09-27T17:36:51.520-05:00Some Much Needed River Time...Part 1<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193262_zpssqzy44xt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193262_zpssqzy44xt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193262_zpssqzy44xt.jpg"/></a><br />
Nobody is happier than I am to see that big yellow bus pull up to the end of the street again each weekday morning. The official sign that Summer is finally over. Many of my favorite float rivers are also a favorite of the Summer party crowd here in the Ozarks, but by this time of year all but a few stragglers have thrown in the proverbial towel. Vacation season is over, kids these days seem to have school related activities that take up most weekends and football season sucks what's left of the crowd off the river. <br />
Ahhhhh...hear that? I don't either, the sound of peace and quiet has returned to the river.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193284_zpsiaducs0p.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193284_zpsiaducs0p.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193284_zpsiaducs0p.jpg"/></a><br />
This is definitely one of my favorite times of the year to be out floating and I usually try to take some time off work to take advantage of it. This year I took an entire week off work for my "Fall Break" and made plans to spend as much of the time as I could on the water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193281_zps7aytlue1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193281_zps7aytlue1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193281_zps7aytlue1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183223_zpszx0kqqrs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183223_zpszx0kqqrs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183223_zpszx0kqqrs.jpg"/></a><br />
My first destination was one of my favorite smallmouth rivers in Missouri. This one I have to all but give up to the float crowd between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the hordes of people and shenanigans that occur on this river all Summer long would make most folks shake their heads. I know I do. <br />
This time of year the people have gone but the fish are still there. I often wonder what the view from below must be like for these fish all Summer, a constant above water circus making it's way downstream every day. <br />
I ended up spending 2 1/2 days in the area and floated the main river as well as one of the tributaries that run into it. While the main river fished very well and had some really good flows, the trib I ended up spending a day on was still ultra clear and the fish were spooky. They kicked my butt on this body of water the day I fished it. Saw lots of fish but they saw me first! Give me a river to float and put a streamer rod in my hand and I'm a pretty happy camper though, the fish are just the icing.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183221_zpszdqlzdzw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183221_zpszdqlzdzw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183221_zpszdqlzdzw.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183218_zps2jbits5a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183218_zps2jbits5a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183218_zps2jbits5a.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183226_zpsb86dxnyd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183226_zpsb86dxnyd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183226_zpsb86dxnyd.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193269_zpspjlxhsuq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193269_zpspjlxhsuq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193269_zpspjlxhsuq.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183233_zpscosdrl1a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183233_zpscosdrl1a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183233_zpscosdrl1a.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193271_zpswonakcsm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193271_zpswonakcsm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193271_zpswonakcsm.jpg"/></a><br />
The fishing wasn't great, but it was good. By good, I mean that I caught quite a few fish (more than expected actually) they just weren't the size I was hoping for. I had hopes that the cooler nights we'd been having might have triggered some of those beauties I connected with in the Spring to come back out and play once again. Alas, it just wasn't in the cards on this trip. I had one or two shots at quality fish that I somehow screwed up but for the most part didn't see many large fish and never landed anything over about 14". I think the excellent Springtime smallmouth fishing I had this year kind of spoiled me, but not so much that I can't still enjoy a peaceful day on the river catching numerous 10-12 inch smallies.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183228_zpsze1wlhli.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183228_zpsze1wlhli.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183228_zpsze1wlhli.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193291_zpssdq8ry6q.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193291_zpssdq8ry6q.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193291_zpssdq8ry6q.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183231_zpsmfypxhao.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183231_zpsmfypxhao.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183231_zpsmfypxhao.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193287_zpsic26tn5k.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193287_zpsic26tn5k.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193287_zpsic26tn5k.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9193257_zpsslf9hp5z.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9193257_zpsslf9hp5z.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9193257_zpsslf9hp5z.jpg"/></a><br />
After a busy float season the campgrounds mostly all close their doors and probably sleep it off for several weeks (can't blame them actually) so I slummed it behind a buddys rental cabin in an empty RV spot. Nothing fancy but I had a piece of green grass under the tent and I could see the river from my chair around the firepit, that was all that I needed to unwind from lifes daily stresses.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183245_zpstb8eyfeu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183245_zpstb8eyfeu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183245_zpstb8eyfeu.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69034/P9183248_zpsq5df99yv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69034/P9183248_zpsq5df99yv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P9183248_zpsq5df99yv.jpg"/></a><br />
I'll be planning a return trip in the near future for sure. Neither the river or myself was on our "A" game that weekend, after a long Summer I guess we both needed a little time to get back in the groove of things.<br />
Here's to the next trip.....<br />
<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-65636166677137194402016-08-28T07:45:00.002-05:002016-08-28T07:45:23.448-05:00The Creek<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223183_zps1qm55evr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223183_zps1qm55evr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223183_zps1qm55evr.jpg"/></a><br />
A small creek wandering through the Ozark hills, crystal clear waters giving residence to some of the most beautiful little wild rainbows to be found in this part of the country. It's a Tuesday and the usual competition that good-heartedly loves this little gem to death are all back to their weekday grind of school, work or whatever it is that keeps them from being here today. The reason is not important...just the result.<br />
We've spent many a day walking these banks together, today as we wander along the shaded corridor and share it's beauty with some of the natural residents, it's not hard to see why it was always one of our favorite spots.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223198_zpsemnnbdxs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223198_zpsemnnbdxs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223198_zpsemnnbdxs.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223202_zpsq15hby7x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223202_zpsq15hby7x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223202_zpsq15hby7x.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223206_zps9gozyqp6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223206_zps9gozyqp6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223206_zps9gozyqp6.jpg"/></a><br />
A 2 weight, a small hopper pattern with a GRHE dropper and a bottle of water are the only baggage required for this trip. Simple...and enjoyable. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223193_zps6qqvfjme.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223193_zps6qqvfjme.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223193_zps6qqvfjme.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223190_zpsvuw1mqd1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223190_zpsvuw1mqd1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223190_zpsvuw1mqd1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223191_zpszike9k7g.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223191_zpszike9k7g.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223191_zpszike9k7g.jpg"/></a><br />
This really isn't about the fishing though. The company itself, the streamside picnic lunch and the doe and yearling fawn you walked up on in the middle of the creek are but a few of the highlights that will be remembered long after the fish have been forgotten.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223204_zpswvjzdc8f.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223204_zpswvjzdc8f.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223204_zpswvjzdc8f.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223194_zpspdsvfrc8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223194_zpspdsvfrc8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223194_zpspdsvfrc8.jpg"/></a><br />
This was about spending some time with a best friend, sharing something one more time that you've enjoyed so many times together. Just another memory that won't soon be forgotten...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69033/P8223211_zpsrq94rxig.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69033/P8223211_zpsrq94rxig.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8223211_zpsrq94rxig.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-61237864906563705392016-08-07T20:14:00.003-05:002016-08-07T20:14:48.396-05:00Summertime...and the Living is Good<a href="http://s829.hrefobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P4232837_zpsncworocu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P4232837_zpsncworocu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232837_zpsncworocu.jpg"/></a><br />
Long weekends at the lake...outdoor cookouts with friends...sunsets on your favorite little farm pond...chewed up poppers...bass thumb, the list of my favorite things about Summer could go on seemingly forever. When it comes to the Summer season it always seems as though there's just so much happening it's difficult to focus ample time on any one activity.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69032/P6183029_zpsdqfqmd43.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69032/P6183029_zpsdqfqmd43.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6183029_zpsdqfqmd43.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69029/P7153119_zpswtluroe1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69029/P7153119_zpswtluroe1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P7153119_zpswtluroe1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69029/P7143116_zpsemgryhn1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69029/P7143116_zpsemgryhn1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P7143116_zpsemgryhn1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69029/P7143069_zpsdyifkqrn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69029/P7143069_zpsdyifkqrn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P7143069_zpsdyifkqrn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69029/P7143090_zpsmsvz04nu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69029/P7143090_zpsmsvz04nu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P7143090_zpsmsvz04nu.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P6113007_zpsqsbyzxne.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P6113007_zpsqsbyzxne.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6113007_zpsqsbyzxne.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P6193039_zpscsdfqxap.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P6193039_zpscsdfqxap.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6193039_zpscsdfqxap.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P8013148_zpsmx4qayii.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P8013148_zpsmx4qayii.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013148_zpsmx4qayii.jpg"/></a><br />
Luckily for me, I live in an area of the country where I can fish pretty much year round so I don't have to try and cram a years worth of fishing in between runoff and the start of a brutal Winter season. <br />
In all honesty, Summer can be one of the more frustrating times of year to fish a good number of the rivers I enjoy spending my time on. Not necessarily from a fishing standpoint but more from an enjoyment standpoint, mostly due to the hordes of floaters (ie. - drunks in canoes) that descend upon the waters this time of year. For me, it's almost comparable to the way many look at the New Years Eve holiday...let the amateurs have their day and get back to it when the crowds are gone. Oh, I'm still getting that itch scratched one way or another most weeks, I just don't take my fishing too seriously this time of year.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P4232829_zpsulw2cqql.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P4232829_zpsulw2cqql.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232829_zpsulw2cqql.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P6113003_zpsmm7vayqt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P6113003_zpsmm7vayqt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6113003_zpsmm7vayqt.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69032/P6183032_zpsrwrcuseu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69032/P6183032_zpsrwrcuseu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6183032_zpsrwrcuseu.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P6113005_zpsaopkyhg8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P6113005_zpsaopkyhg8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6113005_zpsaopkyhg8.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P6113001_zpspgcngz2w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P6113001_zpspgcngz2w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P6113001_zpspgcngz2w.jpg"/></a><br />
I did a solo float on a small creek just last week (on a Wednesday to hopefully find a little solitude) and probably should be embarrassed to admit that I spent as much time swimming in the holes as I did actually fishing them. One of the best days I've had in awhile, a couple dozen smallmouth on blockhead poppers and deerhair bugs (biggest might have went 12 or 13 inches)and plenty of chances between fish to play around in the cool water. Good times for sure...just not very exciting to write or read about.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P8013149_zpsniveldfn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P8013149_zpsniveldfn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013149_zpsniveldfn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P8013154_zpsqrpely2w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P8013154_zpsqrpely2w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013154_zpsqrpely2w.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P8013146_zpsjetaco5u.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P8013146_zpsjetaco5u.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013146_zpsjetaco5u.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69030/P8013159_zpsjzrmzbpg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69030/P8013159_zpsjzrmzbpg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013159_zpsjzrmzbpg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69031/P8013152_zps8d6efom2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69031/P8013152_zps8d6efom2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P8013152_zps8d6efom2.jpg"/></a><br />
Yesterday I was walking through that big-box home goods store that everyone loves to hate, when I saw something that instantly put me in a better mood...aisles packed with back-to-school supplies!! I had a great Spring for smallmouth fishing this year and I'm definitely looking forward to trying to repeat a few of those trips once the temps begin to cool and the infamous "aluminum hatches" of the Ozarks are a distant memory. <br />
Just wanted to let folks know that I havn't went over to the darkside, traded in my 7 weight for a bag of clubs and a pair of girly looking golf shorts or anything so life changing. While I can't imagine that anyone actually even noticed that I havn't posted in what seems like an eternity, I just had to set the story straight. I've been called everything from a dirty ass nympher to a fine collection of names that aren't even remotely suitable for print...but a golfer, that one hurts!HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-70097373582478244212016-05-26T06:10:00.001-05:002016-05-26T06:10:24.841-05:00Soul Cleansing*This ones a little over a week outdated already due to computer issues at home...it broke and I no longer have one. Truthfully I hate the damn things anyway so good riddance!*<br />
<br />
There's no such thing as a bad day of fishing, I know we've all heard that one and I tend to agree with the statement. That being said, some trips are just better than others when it comes right down to it. One of the things I enjoy most about fly fishing is the chance to get away from the rat-race of everyday existence that we all deal with on a daily basis. No computers, no busy highways, no worries to contend with except what fly that fish in front of you might consider eating. When you can couple this with the experience of overnighting on a gravel bar far from civilization it really is the best of all worlds.<br />
Last weekend I got the chance to spend a couple of days on a river with some friends doing just that. We loaded up two drifters with coolers full of beer and enough gear to start our own flyshop and set out Saturday morning for a 19 mile float and a peaceful evening sleeping under the stars. No cell phone service, no McDonalds on every corner and no pissed off commuters honking incessantly because the flow of traffic doesn't suit them. Yes it's true, there may not be such a thing as a bad day on the water. But there's just no substitute for the peace and solitude that sleeping on a riverbank far removed from the rest of humanity can give to your soul. My soul was long overdue and was in need of a good cleansing.<br />
<br />
Heading out...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142914_zpsq8otsjq5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142914_zpsq8otsjq5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142914_zpsq8otsjq5.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142915_zpseuvbbksc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142915_zpseuvbbksc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142915_zpseuvbbksc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142918_zpsvo84yefe.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142918_zpsvo84yefe.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142918_zpsvo84yefe.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
Just doesn't get any better...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142931_zpszjwfaqf3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142931_zpszjwfaqf3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142931_zpszjwfaqf3.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142922_zpsas4fuham.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142922_zpsas4fuham.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142922_zpsas4fuham.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152964_zpsiwpvtjms.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152964_zpsiwpvtjms.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152964_zpsiwpvtjms.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142927_zpstrpvn9ip.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142927_zpstrpvn9ip.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142927_zpstrpvn9ip.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142930_zpsinllmtmh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142930_zpsinllmtmh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142930_zpsinllmtmh.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
Our little slice of Heaven...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142939_zpssxer4ge5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142939_zpssxer4ge5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142939_zpssxer4ge5.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142941_zpsv7mrfpai.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142941_zpsv7mrfpai.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142941_zpsv7mrfpai.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142948_zpsybhnmuxx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142948_zpsybhnmuxx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142948_zpsybhnmuxx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142944_zpsnvllfvbg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142944_zpsnvllfvbg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142944_zpsnvllfvbg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5142947_zpsqnfawzod.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5142947_zpsqnfawzod.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5142947_zpsqnfawzod.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
Morning on the river...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152950_zpshvykdxci.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152950_zpshvykdxci.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152950_zpshvykdxci.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152954_zpsotijqpqn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152954_zpsotijqpqn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152954_zpsotijqpqn.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
The float back to civilization...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152961_zpsp2ovkxfm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152961_zpsp2ovkxfm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152961_zpsp2ovkxfm.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152967_zpssuhythuk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152967_zpssuhythuk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152967_zpssuhythuk.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152960_zpsrhlpnipf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152960_zpsrhlpnipf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152960_zpsrhlpnipf.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152975_zpss4ti4mda.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152975_zpss4ti4mda.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152975_zpss4ti4mda.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152965_zpshznzauey.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152965_zpshznzauey.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152965_zpshznzauey.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69028/P5152977_zpsfx4ju5nu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69028/P5152977_zpsfx4ju5nu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5152977_zpsfx4ju5nu.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-25407411457254052852016-05-04T20:38:00.001-05:002016-05-04T20:38:50.787-05:00Brown Water, Brown Liquor and Brown Bass<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012885_zpsuqfhird1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012885_zpsuqfhird1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012885_zpsuqfhird1.jpg"></a><br />
Well, Mother Nature did it again. The best laid plans aren't worth a thing when the weather is a prominent variable. I had an entire weekend with plans to spend a couple nights camping on gravel bars on a well known Ozark river and try my hand at catching a few smallmouth bass on a new body of water as well. These kinds of trips are always tentative, regardless of the planning and preparation that go into them ahead of time. A few inches of rain in the right valley and your peaceful river float just turned into a crash course in Whitewater Rowing 101. As a case in point, the river we were supposed to do our float/camp on was reading around 300 cfs on the USGS gauges Friday morning as I was packing the last of my gear in the truck. By that evening, after an afternoon of rain and storms, the same gauge was creeping up close to 3000 cfs. <br />
Luckily we had a Plan B (and C)ready to go for just such an occurrence. With rivers rising and leaving their banks all over the Ozark region we decided to hedge our bets and go with a body of water we were all familiar with and, most importantly, one where we had the option of sleeping with a solid roof over our heads. It wasn't the pristine riverside camping and wilderness adventure we had been looking forward to, but it did have one thing going for it...the smallmouth bass.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292850_zpskpac8jyw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292850_zpskpac8jyw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292850_zpskpac8jyw.jpg"/></a><br />
I left the house Friday about mid-morning and pulled into the access we were launching from shortly after noon. Several others in our group were arriving that night but my buddy and I were going to try and get a head start on the fishing action. Skies were grey and threatening and we figured we'd be lucky if we got in a short float before the heavens opened up on us. Our one consolation was the thought that the predicted rains that evening might make todays fishing the only chance we would get...no time like the present.<br />
With a cooler full of fried chicken and Mexican beer we pushed off and started searching for active fish.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292845_zpsawjlp9hy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292845_zpsawjlp9hy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292845_zpsawjlp9hy.jpg"/></a><br />
We hadn't made it too far around the first river bend when the search ended and the fun began. With the recent uptick in levels and slightly off-colored water it appeared as though the big streamer bite was back in business.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302863_zps1y6zut9l.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302863_zps1y6zut9l.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302863_zps1y6zut9l.jpg"/></a><br />
We worked our way downstream all afternoon , hitting each likely hole with our arsenal of flies (Sean fished a brown/yellow deceiver and I fished an olive/yellow deceiver...quite a variety , huh?). Lucky for us the fish weren't in a picky mood and the DD was all we needed for a memorable afternoon on the river. Lots of "fun size" fish came to hand as well as a few bruisers which made the day.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292851_zpsfevp5atd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292851_zpsfevp5atd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292851_zpsfevp5atd.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292847_zpscutoovl7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292847_zpscutoovl7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292847_zpscutoovl7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292854_zpsm9kdupan.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292854_zpsm9kdupan.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292854_zpsm9kdupan.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292855_zpsq7xevrds.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292855_zpsq7xevrds.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292855_zpsq7xevrds.jpg"/></a><br />
The rain held off until 10 minutes after we pulled the boat off the water. The threatening skies kept everyone else at home watching the radar and the smallmouth kept their end of the bargain as well, you just have to love it when a plan B comes together like that.<br />
That evening we went back to the cabin and sat under the porch awning, listening to the rumbles of thunder and the pattering of rain on the metal roof. A good dinner, a cold beer (or two) and a shot of some brown water for a nightcap finished off what was damn near a perfect day.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302881_zpswfina6mq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302881_zpswfina6mq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302881_zpswfina6mq.jpg"/></a><br />
The next morning we woke to still cloudy skies but sometime during the night the storms had moved on out. Unfortunately they left a trail of brown, muddy, rising water in their wake. After finishing up the most important meal of the day the group, now numbering five, split up to check out both sections of river that we were planning to fish that day. As we met back up at the cabin to discuss our options the news wasn't great. The lower river was total chocolate milk below the main tributary coming in, unfishable. The upper fared a little better and while it no longer resembled a clear Ozark stream, the fishing still held some promise. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302872_zpsrapcvkws.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302872_zpsrapcvkws.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302872_zpsrapcvkws.jpg"/></a><br />
With that decision made for us we headed up to the upper river access, meeting three other friends who had come down for the day to fish as well. After shuttling the three vehicles and trailers we loaded up our gear and began making our way downstream, once again in search of a few of those Ozark brown beauties.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302857_zpsuwdhs1qh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302857_zpsuwdhs1qh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302857_zpsuwdhs1qh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302859_zpsurwb51e5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302859_zpsurwb51e5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302859_zpsurwb51e5.jpg"/></a><br />
The water began gradually clearing as the day went on and the fish didn't seem to mind the extra water or off-color even a bit. Fish were caught by everyone with a few solid ones thrown in the mix to make the smiles even bigger.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302860_zpsj76brdji.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302860_zpsj76brdji.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302860_zpsj76brdji.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302865_zpspmbxm7xy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302865_zpspmbxm7xy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302865_zpspmbxm7xy.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302875_zpsqtejv1l4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302875_zpsqtejv1l4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302875_zpsqtejv1l4.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302866_zpsyis6dr73.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302866_zpsyis6dr73.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302866_zpsyis6dr73.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302869_zpsz6wfn6gc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302869_zpsz6wfn6gc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302869_zpsz6wfn6gc.jpg"/></a><br />
The two miles of brown water at the end of the float led to a few members of our party hitting the brown liquor a little harder than normal. At the takeout that evening the smiles and laughs were big all around, partially due to the fishing and partly because of the alcohol consumption that took place the last few miles of the float. <br />
After the boats were back on the trailers we headed back to the cabin for the evening. Steaks were thrown on the grill, white bass fillets were fried in a cast iron skillet and adult beverages were happily consumed. After dinner we finished off the night sitting around the firepit re-hashing tales of the ones that got away and even a few who didn't. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302882_zps5yoq6kgg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302882_zps5yoq6kgg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302882_zps5yoq6kgg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302883_zps4rzxr2bv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302883_zps4rzxr2bv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302883_zps4rzxr2bv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4302880_zpswvywaaru.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4302880_zpswvywaaru.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4302880_zpswvywaaru.jpg"/></a><br />
Sunday morning we got up and started the process all over again. Coffee, breakfast and then a quick run to the river to check on water conditions. The previous days brown water had been replaced with an off-colored greenish water which looked much more conducive to fishing.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012898_zpswjyi5l3q.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012898_zpswjyi5l3q.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012898_zpswjyi5l3q.jpg"/></a><br />
We decided on a float and shuttled the vehicles before pushing off for another day of trying to catch a few Ozarks smallies. It turned out to be another great day, with the fish in an even more cooperative mood than they were on Saturday.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012889_zps75qdtyzz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012889_zps75qdtyzz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012889_zps75qdtyzz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012904_zpskafck841.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012904_zpskafck841.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012904_zpskafck841.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012891_zps61gqbvvc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012891_zps61gqbvvc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012891_zps61gqbvvc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012896_zpst5gfojok.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012896_zpst5gfojok.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012896_zpst5gfojok.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69027/P5012901_zpsnruqrwbb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69027/P5012901_zpsnruqrwbb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012901_zpsnruqrwbb.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69027/P5012905_zpsq6n2owsn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69027/P5012905_zpsq6n2owsn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012905_zpsq6n2owsn.jpg"/></a><br />
The sunny weather did bring out a few more of the locals, and I'm not talking about the ones who reside in the river 365. Other than a few rafts full of drunken, noisy idiots the day couldn't have been much better. A sign of things to come unfortunately, a couple more weeks and it'll be time to hand the river over to the partying masses for the Summer season. Until that happens I'll continue to enjoy the full-time locals that reside here and wait for the return of the creek I love come Fall.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P5012899_zpsjslzvlci.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P5012899_zpsjslzvlci.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P5012899_zpsjslzvlci.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69026/P4292856_zpsuqco5cpf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69026/P4292856_zpsuqco5cpf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4292856_zpsuqco5cpf.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-49450386828053038062016-04-28T16:40:00.000-05:002016-04-28T16:40:19.188-05:00Lazy Lake Afternoon<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232827_zps0fdoxtit.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232827_zps0fdoxtit.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232827_zps0fdoxtit.jpg"/></a><br />
Got an afternoon earlier this week to throw my buddy in the backseat and hit a small local lake close to the house. Nothing exciting, didn't even really fish much. Dabbled around with an indicator and a small wooly bugger close to shore and landed a few small crappie, bluegill and green sunfish. Just a beautiful afternoon to kick back and relax with my best friend.....<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232833_zps7r0tvol6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232833_zps7r0tvol6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232833_zps7r0tvol6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232828_zpsulyauwtd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232828_zpsulyauwtd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232828_zpsulyauwtd.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232840_zpspr9mt2hx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232840_zpspr9mt2hx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232840_zpspr9mt2hx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232836_zpshptq7a4a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232836_zpshptq7a4a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232836_zpshptq7a4a.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232844_zps52ix6jw2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232844_zps52ix6jw2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232844_zps52ix6jw2.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232842_zpszkbspop5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232842_zpszkbspop5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232842_zpszkbspop5.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69025/P4232839_zpsx9u9hi1z.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69025/P4232839_zpsx9u9hi1z.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4232839_zpsx9u9hi1z.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-56435258384453137682016-04-19T08:52:00.001-05:002016-04-19T08:52:38.416-05:00A Little Bit of Ozark Goodness...Weekend TR<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162775_zpsosg9qt8s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162775_zpsosg9qt8s.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162775_zpsosg9qt8s.jpg"/></a><br />
A couple days off after a long, tiring week...a river that's on limited days, enjoying it's last few weeks of solitude before the partying masses corrupt it's identity for the season...a forecast for mostly cloudy afternoons with highs approaching 75 degrees and crisp, cool mornings...and an itch that's just dying to be scratched.<br />
Those were the events that conspired to find me floating lazily down one of my favorite stretches of smallmouth water with nothing else on my plate for the next 36 hours. Making sure that the beer stayed cold and the flies stayed wet were the two top priorities foremost in my mind for the foreseeable future.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152700_zpslhnmofst.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152700_zpslhnmofst.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152700_zpslhnmofst.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162793_zpswrapq7vb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162793_zpswrapq7vb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162793_zpswrapq7vb.jpg"/></a><br />
The river was in a very generous mood once again, giving up several fish that left my hands shaking and knees weak. <br />
The fish of the weekend came midday on Friday, floating through a nice medium depth fast water run. I was stripping a DD through a particularly inviting looking trough when I saw a dark flash accompanied by an instant bend in my rod. I knew it was a decent fish from the brief glimpse but figured another solid 16 inch stud. About this time the fish cartwheels out of the water, clearing the surface by a good two feet. Its a good thing I was wet wading because I'm pretty sure I pissed myself just a little. 25 yards downstream and another circus like jump later I had a beautiful 18 3/4 inch fish in the net.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152709_zpsevu7edfn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152709_zpsevu7edfn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152709_zpsevu7edfn.jpg"/></a><br />
I would have swore she was 20 if she had spit the fly after that first jump, but first impressions aside it was probably the best battle I've waged with a smallie in several years.<br />
True Ozark beauty...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152714_zpshz4f3sjs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152714_zpshz4f3sjs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152714_zpshz4f3sjs.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152717_zpss3hcbbe6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152717_zpss3hcbbe6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152717_zpss3hcbbe6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152718_zpsltrgjaxj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152718_zpsltrgjaxj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152718_zpsltrgjaxj.jpg"/></a><br />
The river was still empty of floaters and the water levels were pretty much perfect for the stretch I was floating. <br />
Two days of floating on two different rivers, broken up by an evening of sitting around the fire while listening to the whipoorwills and tree frogs fill the night with their raucious chorus. The kind of trip that's good for the soul.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162762_zpslnwltrlh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162762_zpslnwltrlh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162762_zpslnwltrlh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152752_zpsnkdtjpb9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152752_zpsnkdtjpb9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152752_zpsnkdtjpb9.jpg"/></a><br />
The natural beauty of the Ozarks never fails to amaze me, offering up new vistas on each visit...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162815_zps72vtz5v4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162815_zps72vtz5v4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162815_zps72vtz5v4.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162789_zpsk87cxeky.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162789_zpsk87cxeky.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162789_zpsk87cxeky.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162767_zpsgiqhalsz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162767_zpsgiqhalsz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162767_zpsgiqhalsz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162765_zps3fftie6t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162765_zps3fftie6t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162765_zps3fftie6t.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162823_zpsay2kjwyv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162823_zpsay2kjwyv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162823_zpsay2kjwyv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162802_zpsawolcltt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162802_zpsawolcltt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162802_zpsawolcltt.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162794_zpsv07vnash.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162794_zpsv07vnash.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162794_zpsv07vnash.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162813_zpsrbx5thki.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162813_zpsrbx5thki.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162813_zpsrbx5thki.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152727_zps1kkwwwzi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152727_zps1kkwwwzi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152727_zps1kkwwwzi.jpg"/></a><br />
Happy Hour...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152735_zpskk7vmrd5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152735_zpskk7vmrd5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152735_zpskk7vmrd5.jpg"/></a><br />
Happier Hour...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152729_zpsn5zqrvm1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152729_zpsn5zqrvm1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152729_zpsn5zqrvm1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152684_zpsoffu60we.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152684_zpsoffu60we.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152684_zpsoffu60we.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152705_zpsdttxu8yi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152705_zpsdttxu8yi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152705_zpsdttxu8yi.jpg"/></a><br />
The locals...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162783_zpslqejhrgv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162783_zpslqejhrgv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162783_zpslqejhrgv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162806_zpsxlhy9bso.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162806_zpsxlhy9bso.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162806_zpsxlhy9bso.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152703_zpszwaxfjmi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152703_zpszwaxfjmi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152703_zpszwaxfjmi.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162781_zpsccr8a8xe.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162781_zpsccr8a8xe.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162781_zpsccr8a8xe.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152739_zpspapkkhjf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152739_zpspapkkhjf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152739_zpspapkkhjf.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152732_zps8rnhv7zu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152732_zps8rnhv7zu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152732_zps8rnhv7zu.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152707_zpsfhahx2tg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152707_zpsfhahx2tg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152707_zpsfhahx2tg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152730_zpsbna93qzy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152730_zpsbna93qzy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152730_zpsbna93qzy.jpg"/></a><br />
My menu planning is pretty simplified. Fried chicken for breakfast, fried chicken for lunch and some form of red meat on the grill for dinner...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162795_zpsosn2hv1s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162795_zpsosn2hv1s.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162795_zpsosn2hv1s.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152699_zpsle3csniz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152699_zpsle3csniz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152699_zpsle3csniz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152750_zpsdmoiqqrx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152750_zpsdmoiqqrx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152750_zpsdmoiqqrx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152751_zpsejcvfuce.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152751_zpsejcvfuce.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152751_zpsejcvfuce.jpg"/></a><br />
Maybe the best part of warmwater fishing...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152687_zps2uuurthm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152687_zps2uuurthm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152687_zps2uuurthm.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152744_zpsrm2xb9df.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152744_zpsrm2xb9df.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152744_zpsrm2xb9df.jpg"/></a><br />
Grand exits...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4162808_zpsrjs4znez.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4162808_zpsrjs4znez.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4162808_zpsrjs4znez.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152743_zps4o6hbioe.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152743_zps4o6hbioe.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152743_zps4o6hbioe.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152719_zpsqzjr5dal.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152719_zpsqzjr5dal.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152719_zpsqzjr5dal.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69023/P4152733_zpsgb0fawi8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69023/P4152733_zpsgb0fawi8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4152733_zpsgb0fawi8.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-80412695424422569882016-04-13T16:39:00.000-05:002016-04-13T16:39:04.748-05:00River Walk<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092668_zps8kvrzqbu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092668_zps8kvrzqbu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092668_zps8kvrzqbu.jpg"/></a><br />
Just a few shots from last weekend. The family got out for some R&R and enjoyed a little of the nice weather we've been experiencing here lately. We spent one day checking out an Ozark river that I have yet to fish, but after seeing it in person I fully intend to remedy that situation before the year is over.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092654_zpsfz1gopwz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092654_zpsfz1gopwz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092654_zpsfz1gopwz.jpg"/></a><br />
No fish pics if that's what you're hoping for unfortunately, other than a few casts after a nice streamside lunch it was a weekend for family time.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092652_zpsxksn4lzo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092652_zpsxksn4lzo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092652_zpsxksn4lzo.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092662_zpsrryvwe7e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092662_zpsrryvwe7e.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092662_zpsrryvwe7e.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092666_zpsa7zhsi2l.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092666_zpsa7zhsi2l.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092666_zpsa7zhsi2l.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092658_zpsnjd39b0l.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092658_zpsnjd39b0l.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092658_zpsnjd39b0l.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092651_zpsteyh5stp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092651_zpsteyh5stp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092651_zpsteyh5stp.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092673_zpsags2kt3t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092673_zpsags2kt3t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092673_zpsags2kt3t.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69022/P4092655_zpsjudyzmgz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69022/P4092655_zpsjudyzmgz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4092655_zpsjudyzmgz.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-35606655487319597262016-04-04T11:48:00.000-05:002016-04-04T11:48:16.635-05:00Just a Couple of Reasons Why I Love Spring in the OzarksUnless you live deep in the South or snow skiing is your pastime of choice, Spring is almost always a welcome season when it finally rolls around. Old man winter starts to release his grasp on things and Mother nature begins brushing the countryside with the multitude of greens on her palette.<br />
While I'm sure that Spring is just as welcome in your backyard as it is mine, there's something about a Spring morning in the Ozarks that's pretty hard to beat.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022576_zpswkxnpvie.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022576_zpswkxnpvie.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022576_zpswkxnpvie.jpg"/></a><br />
Boats loaded and rods are set-up, fully armed with what I'm hoping is the smallmouth candy of choice today...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P3212542_zpsafmuo4y6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P3212542_zpsafmuo4y6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3212542_zpsafmuo4y6.jpg"/></a><br />
This girl was enjoying a warm, sunny morning on her Spring nest as I floated by in search of hungry smallies...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022565_zpsnekbfaqc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022565_zpsnekbfaqc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022565_zpsnekbfaqc.jpg"/></a><br />
There really is nothing to compare with an early morning float on a peaceful river this time of year. Everything is greening up and taking on a new face after a long winter season...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022572_zpssjdnytky.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022572_zpssjdnytky.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022572_zpssjdnytky.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022612_zpskuhwpm8j.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022612_zpskuhwpm8j.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022612_zpskuhwpm8j.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022639_zpslbhv6lcx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022639_zpslbhv6lcx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022639_zpslbhv6lcx.jpg"/></a><br />
Definitely my kind of morning coffee break... <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022580_zpshkxesdsp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022580_zpshkxesdsp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022580_zpshkxesdsp.jpg"/></a><br />
These rivers take on an entirely different look come Memorial Day, on most of my Spring floats I seldom see another person though...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022604_zpsvqvf8wm0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022604_zpsvqvf8wm0.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022604_zpsvqvf8wm0.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022616_zps02tmbfii.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022616_zps02tmbfii.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022616_zps02tmbfii.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022621_zps7syiatzl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022621_zps7syiatzl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022621_zps7syiatzl.jpg"/></a><br />
Lunch always tastes better if consumed streamside with your feet kicked up on the side of a boat...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022614_zps8laud8xl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022614_zps8laud8xl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022614_zps8laud8xl.jpg"/></a><br />
Who doesn't love a good portage (or two), that would be ME...<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022589_zpsijc9nr7d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022589_zpsijc9nr7d.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022589_zpsijc9nr7d.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022591_zpstce9wun2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022591_zpstce9wun2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022591_zpstce9wun2.jpg"/></a><br />
And the best thing about Springtime in the Ozarks is most definitely the smallmouth bite. There's just nothing that beats a good day on the water tangling with a bunch of scrappy smallies!<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69021/smalljaws%202016_zpsu1ivaef9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69021/smalljaws%202016_zpsu1ivaef9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo smalljaws 2016_zpsu1ivaef9.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022625_zpsyxgytgz2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022625_zpsyxgytgz2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022625_zpsyxgytgz2.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022622_zpsk2gdel5k.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022622_zpsk2gdel5k.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022622_zpsk2gdel5k.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022634_zpsdltlsd0q.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022634_zpsdltlsd0q.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022634_zpsdltlsd0q.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022638_zpsjpgohxmc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022638_zpsjpgohxmc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022638_zpsjpgohxmc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022643_zpsrwhcbz5k.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022643_zpsrwhcbz5k.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022643_zpsrwhcbz5k.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022630_zpsyntvruei.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022630_zpsyntvruei.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022630_zpsyntvruei.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022640_zpsmtvaejfs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022640_zpsmtvaejfs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022640_zpsmtvaejfs.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69020/P4022637_zpstcttryar.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69020/P4022637_zpstcttryar.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P4022637_zpstcttryar.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-89923602883489340142016-03-29T06:19:00.001-05:002016-03-29T06:19:45.543-05:00Road Tripping with Joe....The White Bass Gamble<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182498_zpsqohiylpt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182498_zpsqohiylpt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182498_zpsqohiylpt.jpg"/></a><br />
I only had one day to kill so it was going to be a relatively short trip. Four hours to the nearest trout stream...three hours to my favorite smallie creek or two hours and some change to check out the white bass situation. While all of the choices had upsides (and downsides), in the end I chose the white bass gamble for several reasons. First of those being that, if you hit it right, the whites are usually around in numbers and are relatively easy to catch when found.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182500_zpsud8f81jp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182500_zpsud8f81jp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182500_zpsud8f81jp.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182513_zpsyrujgmzr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182513_zpsyrujgmzr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182513_zpsyrujgmzr.jpg"/></a><br />
The second reason was that I wanted to take my best buddy along and he just doesn't do well with extended car rides or long, tough hikes anymore. At 14 years old (what's that, like 100 in people years!) he's to the point where short trips to the local lake and laying in the grass under a shade tree are his idea of a good time, and we get out and do just that as often as possible.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182502_zps2oeeowfb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182502_zps2oeeowfb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182502_zps2oeeowfb.jpg"/></a><br />
That being said, I know I sure miss those long roadtrips together with nothing to do but enjoy each others company on a quiet riverbank, and I sincerely hope he does too. On this day, the weather was mild and the trip relatively short and since I didn't even know if the fish were up in the river yet I was fine with calling it a day whenever my old buddy got tired and was ready to head home. Just two old guys with a day to kill.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182517_zpsfyt5x35a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182517_zpsfyt5x35a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182517_zpsfyt5x35a.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182515_zpsgbarmxn1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182515_zpsgbarmxn1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182515_zpsgbarmxn1.jpg"/></a><br />
We hiked...we sat on the bank and listened to the water meander by...we gave a piss poor attempt at chasing a couple of mouthy red squirrels in the field edge as we were hiking from one spot to another...and we even managed to throw a few flies as time permitted.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182510_zpsgwhqwici.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182510_zpsgwhqwici.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182510_zpsgwhqwici.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182507_zps9dryn2oq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182507_zps9dryn2oq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182507_zps9dryn2oq.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182519_zpsj11mzhft.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182519_zpsj11mzhft.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182519_zpsj11mzhft.jpg"/></a><br />
We snacked on peanut butter crackers (Joes favorite) at almost every stop and we had our usual fried chicken tailgate lunch.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182526_zpsk3axrfzy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182526_zpsk3axrfzy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182526_zpsk3axrfzy.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182524_zpsqvam0izw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182524_zpsqvam0izw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182524_zpsqvam0izw.jpg"/></a><br />
While I can't say that the fish were ever found and caught in any numbers, we managed a few small males to hand and lost a few others.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182529_zpsixcwyo8w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182529_zpsixcwyo8w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182529_zpsixcwyo8w.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182531_zpszef6mi4m.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182531_zpszef6mi4m.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182531_zpszef6mi4m.jpg"/></a><br />
That being said, it still might have been the best trip I've had in quite awhile. Sometimes the company you keep outweighs the end result achieved...here's to many more fishless trips with my old friend.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182514_zpsp770fksg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182514_zpsp770fksg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182514_zpsp770fksg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69018/P3182511_zpscmicdmoo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69018/P3182511_zpscmicdmoo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3182511_zpscmicdmoo.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-79872479431720892462016-03-21T20:37:00.000-05:002016-03-21T20:37:35.528-05:00Signs of Spring<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112444_zpszgwj8ies.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112444_zpszgwj8ies.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112444_zpszgwj8ies.jpg"/></a><br />
Most of the signs are there...green shoots of grass, budding trees, those robins that are constantly searching my excuse for a yard for their next meal (I guess it's easier for them when your yard is half dirt). I've been paying attention these past few weeks and the signs have not gone unnoticed, somewhere in the dark reaches of my brain a plan has been developing to find out if the signs are truly harbingers of another changing season or just a tease by Mother Nature.<br />
Spring for me means the end to a long Winter of trout fishing and the beginning of a new chapter, one that has perhaps become my favorite time of the year. Spring for me, above all else, means hungry smallmouth bass waking up in many of the Ozark streams and aggressively chasing streamers.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112468_zpsn12t2cay.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112468_zpsn12t2cay.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112468_zpsn12t2cay.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112488_zpsg6ckasco.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112488_zpsg6ckasco.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112488_zpsg6ckasco.jpg"/></a><br />
Those brown beauties start slowly dispersing from their Winter haunts and searching out the prime lies in the river where they'll begin to put on the feed bag in preparation for the upcoming spawn. If you're a smallie guy then you undoubtedly know the scenario I speak of, and if you're like me, it has to be one of your favorite times of the year. <br />
Some years it might be the end of March or even the second week of April before things really get moving in the right direction. Often times old man Winter still has a solid grip on things this time of the year and warmwater fishing is but wishful thinking. This year we had a very mild Winter and we've had several days already that have felt like mid June instead of March, thus that little voice in the back of my mind saying Go!...Go!!...Go float your favorite smallmouth stream and see what's going on. After all, the worst thing that can happen is a nice float down an empty river and a skunking at the end of the day, those are odds I can play with.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112463_zpseh51bu82.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112463_zpseh51bu82.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112463_zpseh51bu82.jpg"/></a><br />
I tried to round up some company for my little one day excursion but couldn't produce any interest among my fishing buddies. Too early for smallmouth...it's gonna be overcast and rainy...six hours of driving for about the same amount of fishing time. No thanks, I'll wait til the fish are biting. The excuses were many and probably all valid points but I'm not that easily discouraged (or maybe it's just that I'm not that smart!).<br />
Needless to say I made the trek down South and floated one of my favorite smallmouth creeks this weekend to see if the signs were true? From the lack of people on the water, I never saw another person, I'd say the general concensus is that it's still too early for smallmouth.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112453_zpsr5wtw4mi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img
I tried to round up some company for my little one day excursion but couldn't produce any interest among my fishing buddies. Too early for smallmouth...it's gonna be overcast and rainy...six hours of driving for about the same amount of fishing time. No thanks, I'll wait til the fish are biting. The excuses were many and probably all valid points but I'm not that easily discouraged (or maybe it's just that I'm not that smart!).
Needless to say I made the trek down South and floated one of my favorite smallmouth creeks this weekend to see if the signs were true? From the lack of people on the water, I never saw another person, I'd say the general concensus is that it's still too early for smallmouth.
src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112453_zpsr5wtw4mi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112453_zpsr5wtw4mi.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112450_zpsdhageko6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112450_zpsdhageko6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112450_zpsdhageko6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112485_zpscdisn67w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112485_zpscdisn67w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112485_zpscdisn67w.jpg"/></a><br />
They were definitely right about the weather, it rained and I got wet.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112491_zpsnnnqjnpo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112491_zpsnnnqjnpo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112491_zpsnnnqjnpo.jpg"/></a> <br />
As for the six hours of drive-time, no biggie, I do it all the time for but a slim chance to catch a fish. What else was I gonna do..stay home and watch college basketball??<br />
What I discovered is that it's still early, there were a few hungry fish but I'd say you should probably wait at least another couple of weeks before trying it yourself.<br />
After all the weather this time of year is pretty unpredictable anyway and besides that, there's all that basketball on TV. Maybe in a few more weeks it'll be worth getting out on your favorite creek...but definitely don't go now!!<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112470_zpsb2iibzl7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112470_zpsb2iibzl7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112470_zpsb2iibzl7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112456_zpsdgwfczdq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112456_zpsdgwfczdq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112456_zpsdgwfczdq.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112455_zps1j6rekbz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112455_zps1j6rekbz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112455_zps1j6rekbz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112442_zps3kptraqs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112442_zps3kptraqs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112442_zps3kptraqs.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112464_zpsecbebhuv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112464_zpsecbebhuv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112464_zpsecbebhuv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112473_zpsacysqzdb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112473_zpsacysqzdb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112473_zpsacysqzdb.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112478_zpsolnlruk0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112478_zpsolnlruk0.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112478_zpsolnlruk0.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112474_zpssv5zul5o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112474_zpssv5zul5o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112474_zpssv5zul5o.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112475_zpsio8zoex7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112475_zpsio8zoex7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112475_zpsio8zoex7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69016/P3112496_zpsjjrtpuoz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69016/P3112496_zpsjjrtpuoz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3112496_zpsjjrtpuoz.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-86055332627207943562016-03-08T10:22:00.000-06:002016-03-08T10:22:51.902-06:00Spring Break 2016I took my annual March vacation last week, my own personal Spring Break so to speak. Nine days without the headaches of the normal 9:00 - 5:00 grind is always a welcome thing, but even more so if at least some of that time is spent on the water. I was fortunate enough to spend most of the week hanging out in a rented cabin with a small group of family and friends doing what guys normally do on extended fishing trips...eat, sleep, fish...repeat the process.<br />
The weather was nicer than average for early March, the streams I floated all fished exceptionally well and my evenings were spent hanging out with folks I enjoy sitting around a fire with...what else could a guy ask for??<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012310_zpsukrqj4m6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012310_zpsukrqj4m6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012310_zpsukrqj4m6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012314_zpsmamyla4x.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012314_zpsmamyla4x.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012314_zpsmamyla4x.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P2292294_zpstogxg74u.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P2292294_zpstogxg74u.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2292294_zpstogxg74u.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012322_zpsnlqfm2ot.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012322_zpsnlqfm2ot.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012322_zpsnlqfm2ot.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012321_zps84ldkibf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012321_zps84ldkibf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012321_zps84ldkibf.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012325_zpsmberhavv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012325_zpsmberhavv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012325_zpsmberhavv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022377_zpsd8wu6amh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022377_zpsd8wu6amh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022377_zpsd8wu6amh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012326_zpsi4qs2mrq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012326_zpsi4qs2mrq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012326_zpsi4qs2mrq.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012328_zpsipkcsfxl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012328_zpsipkcsfxl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012328_zpsipkcsfxl.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012341_zpsfehtmtbr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012341_zpsfehtmtbr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012341_zpsfehtmtbr.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022378_zpstj2j6e33.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022378_zpstj2j6e33.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022378_zpstj2j6e33.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012348_zpsdhjg9hvo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012348_zpsdhjg9hvo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012348_zpsdhjg9hvo.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032446_zps4vko72sv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032446_zps4vko72sv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032446_zps4vko72sv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3012354_zps48cn4cth.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3012354_zps48cn4cth.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3012354_zps48cn4cth.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022409_zpsoxl8jfc2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022409_zpsoxl8jfc2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022409_zpsoxl8jfc2.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022416_zpsbotv5suv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022416_zpsbotv5suv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022416_zpsbotv5suv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022412_zpsnhwxkx9v.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022412_zpsnhwxkx9v.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022412_zpsnhwxkx9v.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022384_zpsyfrk6lif.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022384_zpsyfrk6lif.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022384_zpsyfrk6lif.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022402_zpsos25i664.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022402_zpsos25i664.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022402_zpsos25i664.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032451_zpsuk1qn41w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032451_zpsuk1qn41w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032451_zpsuk1qn41w.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022405_zpszyvmmggd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022405_zpszyvmmggd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022405_zpszyvmmggd.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032436_zpsk3e4tzwc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032436_zpsk3e4tzwc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032436_zpsk3e4tzwc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032437_zpsyt9xzsmt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032437_zpsyt9xzsmt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032437_zpsyt9xzsmt.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032452_zpsyfsajsxz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032452_zpsyfsajsxz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032452_zpsyfsajsxz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022421_zpshfxjr8fn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022421_zpshfxjr8fn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022421_zpshfxjr8fn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022418_zpsdggi8yi4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022418_zpsdggi8yi4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022418_zpsdggi8yi4.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032477_zpso8nynnpp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032477_zpso8nynnpp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032477_zpso8nynnpp.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032441_zps0sgrbdxk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032441_zps0sgrbdxk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032441_zps0sgrbdxk.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032447_zps4a4cs8o6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032447_zps4a4cs8o6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032447_zps4a4cs8o6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032470_zpsoakdadr0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032470_zpsoakdadr0.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032470_zpsoakdadr0.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032448_zpsmusi6wtw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032448_zpsmusi6wtw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032448_zpsmusi6wtw.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022424_zpskegf9rf3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022424_zpskegf9rf3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022424_zpskegf9rf3.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3032465_zpsq6yi7caa.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3032465_zpsq6yi7caa.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3032465_zpsq6yi7caa.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69015/P3022399_zps7hg0nrfy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69015/P3022399_zps7hg0nrfy.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P3022399_zps7hg0nrfy.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-55805854237742021602016-02-28T22:15:00.000-06:002016-02-28T22:15:26.544-06:00Last Streamer Trip of the Season?<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2212279_zpsdqqwfdkw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2212279_zpsdqqwfdkw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2212279_zpsdqqwfdkw.jpg"/></a><br />
I'm running just a little behind with this post it seems. Last weekend I managed to sneak back down to the White River again for more of that big fly streamer action. The lake is almost back to normal, which means lessening generation... and this warmer weather has my mind wandering to wet wading for smallies.<br />
The days of chasing trout are soon to be put on the back burner, replaced by several of their warmwater brethren.For now though, one last big water trip in the books.<br />
Mostly the same cast of characters, still chasing the same objective and having a hell of a great time doing it!<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2202277_zpsdl0m96i7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2202277_zpsdl0m96i7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2202277_zpsdl0m96i7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2212291_zpsy8oero08.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2212291_zpsy8oero08.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2212291_zpsy8oero08.jpg"/></a><a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2212282_zpsgirkpwa4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2212282_zpsgirkpwa4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2212282_zpsgirkpwa4.jpg"/></a>user<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2212287_zpsctvojkir.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2212287_zpsctvojkir.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2212287_zpsctvojkir.jpg"/></a><a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2202274_zps7jatjozc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2202274_zps7jatjozc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2202274_zps7jatjozc.jpg"/></a><a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2202272_zpspgkibnuu.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2202272_zpspgkibnuu.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2202272_zpspgkibnuu.jpg"/></a><a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2202278_zpsqhpeqftd.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2202278_zpsqhpeqftd.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2202278_zpsqhpeqftd.jpg"/></a><a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P2212283_zpsz91sv4ya.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P2212283_zpsz91sv4ya.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2212283_zpsz91sv4ya.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-69604799273046037212016-02-15T08:47:00.002-06:002016-02-15T08:47:57.584-06:002016 Fly Fishing Film Festival coming to KC Area<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QQvCGxGiTQ/VsHT_-Mex_I/AAAAAAAAAGc/JUT91L0Altc/s1600/IF4%2B2016%2BEMAIL-MASTER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QQvCGxGiTQ/VsHT_-Mex_I/AAAAAAAAAGc/JUT91L0Altc/s640/IF4%2B2016%2BEMAIL-MASTER.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The local TU chapter is bringing the IF4 Film Festival to the Kansas City area for the first time this year. While I have never been to one of these showings, I've seen many of the previous years videos and have to say they put together a quality selection of films. I've heard good things about the event from those I know who have attended in the past, I mean what's not to like about fly fishing porn and hanging out with a few like minded individuals. I definitely plan to set aside the evening for tipping back a few cold ones and checking out the newest fly fishing films. <br />
Following is the information I was given on the event, there is a link to a few short trailers and then a separate link for actual purchasing of tickets. <br />
<br />
<b>When: Wed March 16th. Doors open at 6. Show starts at 7. Runtime for show is about 1:40<br />
Where: Glenwood Arts Theater: SE corner of 95th/Mission in Leawood<br />
Tickets: $10 in advance / $15 at the door if any are left. Will post updates on ticket availability as we get closer.<br />
<br />
Raffle: A large number of raffle items have been donated to for the event. Raffle tickets will be available for a donation at door. <br />
<br />
Post event libations: We will be going to O'Neills pub across the street for something cold and frothy to drink.<br />
</b> <br />
<br />
**I could not get these links to work properly when setting them up, you will have to copy the link and then paste it in your browser. I will try to fix the issue as time permits**<br />
<br />
http://www.flyfilmfest.com/<br />
<br />
https://www.showclix.com/event/IF4MISSIONKS2016<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-72128781788933559922016-02-03T17:09:00.000-06:002016-02-03T17:09:20.388-06:00PerspectiveLast weekend I had the opportunity to spend a few days fishing one of the more well known big trout factories in the country, the White River in Arkansas. The local fly shop holds an event every year around this time called StreamerFest that draws like minded individuals from near and far to share stories and a little time on this storied water chasing big brown trout. Enough reason to make a short pilgrimage down South.<br />
My fishing partner arrived Thursday night to take possession of his new river ride, a sweet looking Towee just off the production floor.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P2012262_zpsaqodots6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P2012262_zpsaqodots6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2012262_zpsaqodots6.jpg"/></a><br />
I drug my own ass out of bed around 3:00 am Friday morning to get on the road early for the 5 hour trek South. We met at our humble riverside abode for the weekend and within the first 10 minutes had the boat backed in the water right in front of the cabin.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302207_zps2ovzzqh5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302207_zps2ovzzqh5.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302207_zps2ovzzqh5.jpg"/></a><br />
The motors owners manual called for several hours of break-in before putting it into full service...this one got 20 minutes of idling while we unloaded our shit into the cabin and then it was time to put her to the test on some big water, 30,000 cfs worth of big water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302210_zpsg5jkanw9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302210_zpsg5jkanw9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302210_zpsg5jkanw9.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302208_zpsmvisujzj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302208_zpsmvisujzj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302208_zpsmvisujzj.jpg"/></a><br />
As you might guess, there wasn't a bobber or a nymph in the boat all weekend. 350 to 400 grain sinking lines and big, nasty flies were the order of the weekend...my favorite style of fishing. We got on the river to find something that looked more like the mighty Mississippi than the trout filled river we were used to.<br />
As streamer junkies we're always hoping for high water to push the fish up against the banks, but these water levels had us fishing in peoples backyards. Still, it was much more suited for what we wanted to do than dealing with the usual low water conditions that greet us when we arrive.<br />
After a quick rundown of the boat and trying to figure where we were going to store all the shit that normally accompanies us, we headed upstream to join the armada of boats that were drifting down hucking half chickens at the flooded banks in hope of sticking the fish of a lifetime.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302211_zpstjmyslax.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302211_zpstjmyslax.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302211_zpstjmyslax.jpg"/></a><br />
We spent the rest of the day doing the same, with the river throwing us a few bones in the way of decent fish, but nothing over the two foot mark which seem to be the only fish that even get mentioned on this water.<br />
<a href="http://s1090.photobucket.com/user/jepk4/media/DSCN06891.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i377/jepk4/DSCN06891.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN06891.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302222_zpsuieyji6m.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302222_zpsuieyji6m.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302222_zpsuieyji6m.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312252_zpsppkv7s81.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312252_zpsppkv7s81.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312252_zpsppkv7s81.jpg"/></a><br />
Having spent enough time on this river to know how fickle of a bitch she can be, we pulled the boat out at the end of the day considering it a success to have put a couple in the net and fubar'd a few others. As long as the fish are eating it's all about that opportunity that might present itself on the next cast, that drive that keeps you going on those many fishless days.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312246_zpsknym3lwm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312246_zpsknym3lwm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312246_zpsknym3lwm.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1292204_zpsilnf6x3i.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1292204_zpsilnf6x3i.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1292204_zpsilnf6x3i.jpg"/></a><br />
Saturday was the actual day of the big flyshop event with fly tying classes led by Galloup and Schmidt, tackle reps showing off their latest wares and lots of other activities to keep folks entertained. We didn't see any of it, opting to spend all of the daylight hours available to us on the water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302229_zpsjrwojeus.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302229_zpsjrwojeus.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302229_zpsjrwojeus.jpg"/></a><br />
Standing around a flyshop talking about fishing is great...actually fishing is even better. We managed to put a couple more decent fish in the net over the course of the day, had a few LDR's and lots of chases that just never found the end of a hook.<br />
<a href="http://s1090.photobucket.com/user/jepk4/media/DSCN06901.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i377/jepk4/DSCN06901.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN06901.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P2012260_zpsln3nzfs4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P2012260_zpsln3nzfs4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2012260_zpsln3nzfs4.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1292201_zpscaezf4l3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1292201_zpscaezf4l3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1292201_zpscaezf4l3.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P2012265_zpsv8nhr88o.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P2012265_zpsv8nhr88o.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2012265_zpsv8nhr88o.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312250_zpsccjyxjdn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312250_zpsccjyxjdn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312250_zpsccjyxjdn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312253_zpsbp0sfmwg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312253_zpsbp0sfmwg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312253_zpsbp0sfmwg.jpg"/></a><br />
While it might not have been the kind of day you go back to the shop bragging about on a river like this, it was more than enough to put smiles on our faces and assure that an alarm clock wouldn't be needed the next morning...regardless of the adult beverage consumption that evening.<br />
We spent the rest of the evening hanging out at the shop with everyone else, eating the free food and drinking the free beer (we're not the type of guys to miss out on either of those things). Met up with and talked to several other Drakians who were in attendance, as well as lots of other guys I hadn't seen in awhile. Not a bad way to cap off a good day on the water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312257_zps88thivyn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312257_zps88thivyn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312257_zps88thivyn.jpg"/></a><br />
Sunday the crowds were a little lighter out on the river, whether it was because everyone had to pack up and head home for work the next day or just the results of free beer the previous night is hard to say. We headed back to a stretch of water that had been good to us with the intention of hitting it hard on our last full day of fishing. After listening to all of the stories flying around the previous evening of big browns that were caught by a few lucky anglers we were anxious to get back on the river. Ten hours of getting after it with nothing for sustenance except a cooler full of beer and a Ziploc bag with a handful of mini Snickers...that's what rumors of 30 inch fish will do to a guy.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312243_zpsrw3vtxwa.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312243_zpsrw3vtxwa.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312243_zpsrw3vtxwa.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312247_zpst0x2zjlh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312247_zpst0x2zjlh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312247_zpst0x2zjlh.jpg"/></a><br />
We gave it a solid effort and had another good day as far as streamer fishing is concerned, at least by our lowly standards.<br />
<a href="http://s1090.photobucket.com/user/jepk4/media/DSCN06871.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i377/jepk4/DSCN06871.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN06871.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1292202_zpsaq11dq6s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1292202_zpsaq11dq6s.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1292202_zpsaq11dq6s.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1312251_zpsljua4i5d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1312251_zpsljua4i5d.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1312251_zpsljua4i5d.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P2012261_zps6kegxyye.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P2012261_zps6kegxyye.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P2012261_zps6kegxyye.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s1090.photobucket.com/user/jepk4/media/DSCN06921.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1090.photobucket.com/albums/i377/jepk4/DSCN06921.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN06921.jpg"/></a><br />
While we started off the weekend with hopes of a true "ditch pig", something over the two foot mark, the reality of it all is that those fish are few and far between. Even on a river with a reputation for giving up big fish fairly consistently there are no guarantees. I fish waters on a regular basis where our weekends results would have been nothing short of stellar, and while we might not have accomplished our end goal of a true "trophy" White river fish, it didn't diminish the fact that we got to spend several days with good friends doing something we are truly passionate about. In the end it's all about perspective...regardless of what river you're fishing and what the idea of a quality fish on those waters are, success can only be measured by the guidelines you set for yourself.<br />
As we got off the water for the last time that weekend two cold ones were pulled from the cooler and a couple of cigars were lit...all in celebration of what was, at least for us, a great weekend.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69014/P1302225_zpso6gcrr9t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69014/P1302225_zpso6gcrr9t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1302225_zpso6gcrr9t.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-14814846888191007182016-01-13T06:49:00.000-06:002016-01-13T06:49:33.987-06:00First Trip of 2016High, off-colored water...flood ravaged river accesses...winter storms moving into the area...sounds like the perfect conditions to sneak in the first trip of 2016!<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082158_zpsojwxo8zl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082158_zpsojwxo8zl.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082158_zpsojwxo8zl.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1092185_zpsokuirp3v.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1092185_zpsokuirp3v.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1092185_zpsokuirp3v.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082159_zpslnqaddgg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082159_zpslnqaddgg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082159_zpslnqaddgg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082169_zpsbedsqri7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082169_zpsbedsqri7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082169_zpsbedsqri7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082162_zps2esnajzf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082162_zps2esnajzf.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082162_zps2esnajzf.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082176_zpstacrp3uo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082176_zpstacrp3uo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082176_zpstacrp3uo.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1092188_zpsvuvwiyp6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1092188_zpsvuvwiyp6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1092188_zpsvuvwiyp6.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082177_zpsabqwslto.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082177_zpsabqwslto.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082177_zpsabqwslto.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1092190_zps4eantyq0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1092190_zps4eantyq0.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1092190_zps4eantyq0.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1092193_zpst81ddhab.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1092193_zpst81ddhab.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1092193_zpst81ddhab.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/P1082179_zpslohpkprx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/P1082179_zpslohpkprx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo P1082179_zpslohpkprx.jpg"/></a><br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-37879140670698400302015-12-24T21:22:00.003-06:002015-12-24T21:22:37.427-06:00Merry Christmas!<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC240231_zpsz2thyxgj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC240231_zpsz2thyxgj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC240231_zpsz2thyxgj.jpg"/></a><br />
Here's hoping that everyone who reads this has a very Merry Christmas. Regardless which of Santa's lists you find yourself on, (I'm pretty certain my name can be found on the list that guarantees you a stocking full of coal), may you find happiness in time spent with family and friends during this holiday season.<br />
And lastly, may Santa arrive bearing gifts in round, metal tubes and may your wading boots stay continuously wet throughout the New Year!<br />
Many Thanks to everyone whos tops by on occasion to check out my posts and leave a comment, I truly appreciate it.<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-36441634327383271842015-12-17T17:15:00.000-06:002015-12-17T17:15:50.984-06:00Streamer Time<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122115_zpsbzjcvms8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122115_zpsbzjcvms8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122115_zpsbzjcvms8.jpg"/></a><br />
It's that time of year again boys and girls. That joyous season when the flotillas of bikini clad college things and the obnoxious drunken entourage that follows them are but a distant memory. Tis the season when cold, nasty days spent on a high, slightly off-colored piece of water dominate your thoughts at every opportunity.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122123_zps6cuaywpx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122123_zps6cuaywpx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122123_zps6cuaywpx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122120_zpsoiwzpq5b.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122120_zpsoiwzpq5b.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122120_zpsoiwzpq5b.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132147_zpssrsffkd6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132147_zpssrsffkd6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132147_zpssrsffkd6.jpg"/></a><br />
This isn't a numbers game by any stretch of the imagination. This is all about putting in your time, paying those dues and hoping that the fishing gods smile on you once or twice during the season and you can put that two-footer in the net.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122134_zpshxtkxc86.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122134_zpshxtkxc86.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122134_zpshxtkxc86.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/DSCN065012_zpsxbie5brz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/DSCN065012_zpsxbie5brz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN065012_zpsxbie5brz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132144_zpsylzdlltg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132144_zpsylzdlltg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132144_zpsylzdlltg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/DSCN065711_zpswtgih8in.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/DSCN065711_zpswtgih8in.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN065711_zpswtgih8in.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122136_zpsigivjhx3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122136_zpsigivjhx3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122136_zpsigivjhx3.jpg"/></a><br />
The fly boxes filled to overflowing with copper johns, prince nymphs and midges of every color don't even leave the house this time of year. This fishing is undertaken with flys that have names that sound as mean and nasty as the fish they're designed to catch. Flys with names like Hog Snare, El Chupacabra and the Sex Dungeon.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122113_zpsvoiv6zjv.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122113_zpsvoiv6zjv.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122113_zpsvoiv6zjv.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132151_zpsaeqgfv3t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132151_zpsaeqgfv3t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132151_zpsaeqgfv3t.jpg"/></a><br />
This is 8 weights and full sinking lines hucked from the front of a driftboat all day.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122129_zpsoctx9mfk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122129_zpsoctx9mfk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122129_zpsoctx9mfk.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/DSCN066412_zpshshdob84.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/DSCN066412_zpshshdob84.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSCN066412_zpshshdob84.jpg"/></a><br />
This time of year mornings call for a hearty breakfast and a big pot of coffee to kickstart the day.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132141_zpsg2fm4lqi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132141_zpsg2fm4lqi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132141_zpsg2fm4lqi.jpg"/></a><br />
Long gone are the relaxing midday riverside breaks where it's fully acceptable to lounge around in sandals and enjoy the beautiful weather. This is a piece of cold fried chicken and pounding a beer (or two)every time you get back on the oars while still trying to put your buddy on the right line for that next good looking run.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122116_zpscsfwmr98.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122116_zpscsfwmr98.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122116_zpscsfwmr98.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132152_zpscnsdlcdn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132152_zpscnsdlcdn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132152_zpscnsdlcdn.jpg"/></a><br />
On most trips it just doesn't happen, you take what the river gives you and drink away the sorrows of defeat with your fellow miscreants while sitting around a warm fire at night.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/ATT_1450393662518_KIMG0024_zps9ycvf6mp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/ATT_1450393662518_KIMG0024_zps9ycvf6mp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo ATT_1450393662518_KIMG0024_zps9ycvf6mp.jpg"/></a><br />
Sometimes you get lucky and there's a consolation prize at the end of the day, like a good old Ozark fish fry with freshly gigged suckers and hush puppies and cold beer...and good friends.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC132153_zpsm8u0rv0t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC132153_zpsm8u0rv0t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC132153_zpsm8u0rv0t.jpg"/></a><br />
No matter how the results pan out at the end of the day there's still nowhere I'd rather be...cold, wet and already thinking about that next trip...and that next fish.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC122140_zpsujjxhpis.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC122140_zpsujjxhpis.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC122140_zpsujjxhpis.jpg"/></a>HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-16104684666945238052015-12-03T17:53:00.001-06:002015-12-03T17:53:14.860-06:00Steelhead Flies<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041915_zpsqxpmfr4w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041915_zpsqxpmfr4w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041915_zpsqxpmfr4w.jpg"/></a><br />
Having just gotten back from my first steelhead trip a couple weeks ago, I've still been spending a lot of time daydreaming about the experience and wishfully planning my next opportunity. As you might guess it's a long drive from my home here in Kansas to the closest steelhead water (it's a pretty long drive just to reach trout water, it's halfway across the country in either direction to find steelhead!) so wishful thinking is all I've got at this point. With the itch still maintaining it's grasp on my psyche and no other method of scratching it I ended up resorting to sitting down at the bench and tying up a few more spey style steelhead patterns. Part of the motivation was the fact that my tying desk still looked like someone had thrown a multi-colored chicken into a box fan from the tying binge pre-trip. I figured I might as well knock a few more flies out before putting the blue-eared pheasant and guinea feathers back in the "seldom used" drawer.<br />
I'm not going to blow smoke and tell you that these are great looking flies, but they're all based on patterns that I know can be successful under the right circumstances. I don't know this from personal experience, I only know because the patterns all came from the Oak Orchard Flyshop steelhead pattern page on the internet and are recommended by several of the gentlemen associated with the shop. I personally fished with these guys on my trip and besides being great people, they knew their shit when it comes to steelhead fishing. The purple/black spey and the blue/white spey both got bit on the trip, as for the others they'll just have to bide their time in my box until I can get back up there.<br />
Unfortunately, maybe the only thing worse than my fly tying ability is my photography skills so the pictures aren't really much to look at but I'm gonna throw them up and make you suffer through it anyway.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012101_zpsekbrjtfk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012101_zpsekbrjtfk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012101_zpsekbrjtfk.jpg"/></a> <br />
If you would like any of the recipes for these flies I would recommend going to the Oak Orchard Flyshops old website and checking out their fly patterns pages...lots of good stuff to keep you busy over the long, cold winter. <br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012100_zpsdk576rgn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012100_zpsdk576rgn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012100_zpsdk576rgn.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012093_zpseqztosfx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012093_zpseqztosfx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012093_zpseqztosfx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012091_zpsbtfmmyvh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012091_zpsbtfmmyvh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012091_zpsbtfmmyvh.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012110_zpscwfivhbg.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012110_zpscwfivhbg.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012110_zpscwfivhbg.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012106_zpslb2opbvz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012106_zpslb2opbvz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012106_zpslb2opbvz.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012098_zpso8cb9s1t.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012098_zpso8cb9s1t.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012098_zpso8cb9s1t.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012107_zpsyhve9uqm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012107_zpsyhve9uqm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012107_zpsyhve9uqm.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PC012103_zpsvcuqzk53.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PC012103_zpsvcuqzk53.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PC012103_zpsvcuqzk53.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4688115055799633461.post-75874419983600065332015-11-11T22:11:00.001-06:002015-11-11T22:11:51.810-06:00Scratching One Off the Bucket List...Steelhead Trip <a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021849_zpsqogk8jxs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021849_zpsqogk8jxs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021849_zpsqogk8jxs.jpg"/></a><br />
Every fly fisherman has their own version of a bucket list...specific waters you want to fish, species of fish you want to catch or even just certain methods of fishing you'd like to experience. If you're like me the list is long and seldom does anything get crossed off (although new things are always being added). Last week I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to cross one of those long dreamed of trips off my personal bucket list, the steelhead trip. A large group of fellow miscreants, some that I'd previously met and others that I hadn't, put together a weeklong steelhead trip encompassing three different states and a multitude of waters along the way. When I got the call about going I wasn't about to miss out on the opportunity, come hell or high water.<br />
After finagling the work schedule to allow me the 10 days I needed to accomplish the almost 16 hour drive and sweet talking the wife into still being around when I returned back home, I was able to start making plans for the trip. There were flies to be researched and tied, shooting heads and sink-tips to be organized and last but not least, I needed to work in some two handed spey casting practice. While the planning and prep kept me off the water for the couple of weeks before I left, this was one of those trips where getting ready is half the fun.<br />
Talking to some of the guys who had actually visited this area and fished for steelhead before I was a little apprehensive about my chances of actually catching one. Obviously, with any anadromous fish, water flows and temperatures are a dictating factor in how many (if any) fish are actually in the body of water you're fishing. While I'm used to fishing in tough conditions where the fish seemingly have lockjaw, the idea of fishing in a river where there literally might not be any fish yet was a little intimidating. I was also told that if I chose to fish with indicator rigs and egg or sucker spawn patterns my chances would most likely be better regardless of water conditions. While the idea of catching a steelhead obviously appealed to me, I had already convinced myself of the fact that I wasn't driving halfway across the country to chuck egg patterns under an indicator. Come what may, I intended to swing flies on the two-hander and take my lumps as they come...fish or no fish.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061960_zpsewm6b9v9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061960_zpsewm6b9v9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061960_zpsewm6b9v9.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021853_zps2plkpogt.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021853_zps2plkpogt.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021853_zps2plkpogt.jpg"/></a><br />
The first four days were spent with a smaller group of guys bunking at one of the locals houses. There were five of us from out of town and three or four local guys who showed us around some of their favorite water.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021826_zpsu726s7rb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021826_zpsu726s7rb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021826_zpsu726s7rb.jpg"/></a><br />
Our first day of fishing started off tough, with waters that were off-colored and still high from a recent rain event. After a little on the road research we were able to locate a fishable river and although it wasn't the first choice, we enjoyed a great afternoon of swinging flies on a beautiful river and drinking some beer with a great group of guys.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021835_zpskxui2dxi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021835_zpskxui2dxi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021835_zpskxui2dxi.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021828_zpsqbib4xkx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021828_zpsqbib4xkx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021828_zpsqbib4xkx.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021832_zpsvl0dsl82.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021832_zpsvl0dsl82.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021832_zpsvl0dsl82.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB021859_zps0mf9vwn1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB021859_zps0mf9vwn1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB021859_zps0mf9vwn1.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041921_zpsx0nu7mxw.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041921_zpsx0nu7mxw.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041921_zpsx0nu7mxw.jpg"/></a><br />
Unfortunately the steelhead didn't cooperate on this day and when the sun had set we headed back to formulate a new plan.<br />
The next three days were all spent on a different section of river (several rivers actually) and on top of some of the most beautiful scenery you could have while standing knee-deep in the water, fish were actually caught. This Kansas boy was the first one on the board out of the group and I have to admit I don't think the smile left my face for the rest of the week.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB031867_zps6yikzmib.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB031867_zps6yikzmib.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB031867_zps6yikzmib.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB031876_zpsfcperhnq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB031876_zpsfcperhnq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB031876_zpsfcperhnq.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041893_zps4tl8mf1p.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041893_zps4tl8mf1p.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041893_zps4tl8mf1p.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041885_zpsgkmlrbse.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041885_zpsgkmlrbse.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041885_zpsgkmlrbse.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041911_zpss2y4jup9.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041911_zpss2y4jup9.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041911_zpss2y4jup9.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041910_zpsjdk6lki3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041910_zpsjdk6lki3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041910_zpsjdk6lki3.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051936_zpsrqc41e52.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051936_zpsrqc41e52.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051936_zpsrqc41e52.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051945_zpsgauh9tui.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051945_zpsgauh9tui.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051945_zpsgauh9tui.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051943_zpsj1nqghxk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051943_zpsj1nqghxk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051943_zpsj1nqghxk.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB041931_zps8b1b7qej.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB041931_zps8b1b7qej.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041931_zps8b1b7qej.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69001/PB041923_zps1jor6m4w.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69001/PB041923_zps1jor6m4w.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB041923_zps1jor6m4w.jpg"/></a><br />
By the time we got around to packing it up and heading for our next destination I had managed a landed fish every day since day one, and every one of them was taken on a swung fly fishing the spey rod. If the trip had ended right then I would have been totally happy,but this party was just getting started. <br />
The second leg of the trip was attended by a much larger contingent, just slightly over 30 guys descended on a large campground right next to the river and basically took the place over.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051948_zpscqik2dip.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051948_zpscqik2dip.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051948_zpscqik2dip.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061984_zpstqgnxlh6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061984_zpstqgnxlh6.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061984_zpstqgnxlh6.jpg"/></a><br />
From this location we had the opportunity to fish three different states all within a couple hours drive of base camp and before the week was over I owned a license from each of those states. The fish continued to cooperate amazingly and I was able to land two more fish in the next three days.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB071990_zpsvdxrentc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB071990_zpsvdxrentc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB071990_zpsvdxrentc.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB071999_zpsr7xruqxs.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB071999_zpsr7xruqxs.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB071999_zpsr7xruqxs.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061964_zpsgvegyvy2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061964_zpsgvegyvy2.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061964_zpsgvegyvy2.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072020_zpsbmlcshht.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072020_zpsbmlcshht.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072020_zpsbmlcshht.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072022_zpsnetr8yya.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072022_zpsnetr8yya.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072022_zpsnetr8yya.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072023_zps90r1gy4u.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072023_zps90r1gy4u.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072023_zps90r1gy4u.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061965_zpspuaufh2s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061965_zpspuaufh2s.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061965_zpspuaufh2s.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072035_zpshau2y54c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072035_zpshau2y54c.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072035_zpshau2y54c.jpg"/></a><br />
While I won't lie and say that I wasn't thrilled with my success fishing, maybe the best part of the second leg was hanging out with a big group of like-minded individuals. In typical fashion we ate like kings, drank too much, stayed up too late and basically had one hell of a great time.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051951_zpsrtm8qoz8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051951_zpsrtm8qoz8.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051951_zpsrtm8qoz8.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051949_zpsnx3hqtwe.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051949_zpsnx3hqtwe.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051949_zpsnx3hqtwe.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB051952_zpsev6wffca.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB051952_zpsev6wffca.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB051952_zpsev6wffca.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061980_zpsqk52yhr7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061980_zpsqk52yhr7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061980_zpsqk52yhr7.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072054_zpsficrvscq.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072054_zpsficrvscq.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072054_zpsficrvscq.jpg"/></a><br />
Just the knowledge alone that I was able to glean from some of the folks I fished and visited with was worth the trip in itself. Without the help of others who were more than willing to offer instruction my trip might have ended up differently.<br />
I'm pretty sure that at this point I'm ruined, the steelhead bug has taken a big bite out of me and I'm already trying to figure out how I can afford the next trip.<br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB061961_zps7pklp3gb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB061961_zps7pklp3gb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB061961_zps7pklp3gb.jpg"/></a><br />
<a href="http://s829.photobucket.com/user/Troutnut69/media/Troutnut69012/PB072049_zps8xrjcgnp.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i829.photobucket.com/albums/zz215/Troutnut69/Troutnut69012/PB072049_zps8xrjcgnp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo PB072049_zps8xrjcgnp.jpg"/></a><br />
If any of you reading this live in steelhead country and happen to have an extra bedroom to crash in....feel free to send me an invite, I'm all in!! HighPlainsFlyFisherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06687603070322008065noreply@blogger.com24