It’s the end of March and I’m reflecting on what has been a nice winter steelhead season. Swinging flies, searching for steelhead is certainly not the most effective way to make contact with these amazing fish, but it is most definitely the most fun and rewarding. The feeling of connection you get from a tight line grab generated from a steelhead, fresh from the Pacific Ocean is nothing short of magical. Plus, it’s just fun throwing darts with a two hander.
I have been fortunate this season to be able to fish with everyone from seasoned steelheaders to those that were just introduced to a two handed rod. I love being able to share the day with such a diverse group of individuals that share the same passion for steelhead, and the wild places we find them. With each trip this season there’s been great conversations around our environment, the health of our fisheries and ideas on what we can do to help ensure the next generation can share in these same experiences. While we may not solve the problems we’re facing in the environment over the course or a trip, strengthening the connections we have with each other and everything around us definitely doesn’t hurt.
As I wrap up the remainder of the steelhead season and reflect on all the amazing people I’ve shared days with I can’t help but feel good and I’m encouraged on what the future holds. But we can’t do it without each other and we all must take part in the process. Please consider taking an active role in protecting these places we all love.
