When we head into fall we get our rivers back. No more inflatable crocodiles ridden by Blatz drinking bozos on the Colorado. No more throngs of kayakers paddling the good holding water and screwing up the fishing. No more explaining boat ramp etiquette to commercial raft companies. And most importantly, not as many guided trips. The biggest problem on rivers in the American west is guides. More or less, we know what the hell we’re doing and we’re out there every day. I think we do a disservice to our rivers and our clients when we make the priority numbers in the net. The fish that turn on your fly are every bit as cool as the ones you land. What I like about dry flies and streamers is you get to see the assault and often the fish simply miss. I like landing fish as much as the next guy, but how many twelve-inch browns do you have to put in the net or touch with your hands? Ninety percent of the challenge is tricking the fish and landing them is an afterthought. This time of year with the water low and clear you see the effect of another summer of “numbers” fishing scattered on the river bottom never to take a fly again.

Live from the World Headquarters
Kea C. Hause esq.