Re: A Newbie's Journey Part IV
I'd fish your St. Vrain anyday! What a beautiful river. You're getting close, real close. You're also getting really good advise. Actually, I fish the St. Vrain quite a lot as it's not far from my home at all.
It empties into the town of Lyons ant you can fish starting right there. Moving upstream it forks into 3 forks, all very fishable. Don't let John fool you too much, people do fish it, and it is a very pretty stream. With the increase of population here it's getting more pressure than ever. Occasionally, you can find a real hog there, too. When you do you find yourself asking him, "where the hell did you come from?"
I know it's dificult to do now, but once again don't think, just react. It needs to come natural. When it does your success will be fruitful. I know we would all like to see the picture of your first catch, and most of us would forgive you if you did handle the fish, but do it carefully, please. You also need to learn how to release the fish. The best method is to not touch him at all or remove him from the water. If you do need to handle him a net is best, but beware, a net can also remove the protective coating off of the fish. Always wet your hand, regardless if you intend to handle him or not, just in case.
Hunting fish is just what you are doing. Fishing is sitting on a bank or a boat with a beer and a worm. Stealth and presentation are the keys. Presentation is everything.
My partner and I went out ourselves Saturday to a little creek I love to fish just a few miles below Wyoming. It was a perfect day, the temperature up on the mountain go to about 78 degrees, the sky a little overcase, the water was a good temperature and bugs of all sorts comming off of the water everywhere. Best of all, we were the only people fishing! We did see others, but they were intent with their quads, (now, there's a blessing in itself, I'm really starting to appreciate the things).
We both caught fish all day long. The phases of fishing you go through in your journey are many and diverse.
I remember when quantities and size mattered. That gave away to just catching, then just being there. Enjoy every minute of your journey, after all, it's not the destination but the journey that is what stands out later in your mind.
Good luck, we all are pulling for you!
Re: A Newbie's Journey Part IV
I am really enjoying your journey. :D I feel as though I am there and living it along with you. Years ago I lived in Cameron Park (Shingles Springs) and made many a fishing trips up Ice House Road and along the Rubicon Trial. Your journals take me back those times. Really good of you to share your experience in becoming a flyfisherman. It's a lifetime of learning and sharing.
I wish you tight lines and thanks again for sharing.
Re: A Newbie's Journey Part IV
I'm also enjoying your journey - one we are all on to some degree or other.
I can't wait to read the part that's coming when you bring a trophy (whatever the size) to hand with a fly you've tied.....
Keep the journal coming!