The Fly Guy's Top Ten Fishing Related Thingees that He is Most Thankful For!
10. Fly Fishing Stickers/Shirts
I'm not going to lie, I love to show off that I'm a fly fishermen. Let's be honest, we're a bit of a subculture in the fishing community. We're quirky, rare, and purposefully make something that can be difficult even more difficult. I love running into other people of similar mentalities and personalities. We're a pretty cool bunch...a little odd at times...but a fun group nonetheless.
9. A Perfect Cast...Which is Rare For Me
Every once in awhile, I pop off a cast that feels like what Lefty Kreh must feel all the time he tosses line. When this happens, I have no idea what I did and can't replicate it for the rest of the day but keep trying. It probably feels like a 300 yard drive, dunking a basketball, or hitting an over-the-fence homerun. I've only done one of those and here's a hint- I hate golf and I stink at baseball.
8. The Rip
Aside from a baby's laugh, there are few sounds I like in this world as much as the sound of fly line ripping off the water when setting the hook on a fish. If you've never taken the time to appreciate this sound, I highly suggest you try it.
7. BIG Mounted Fish
Fish mounts get my attention. New ones, old ones, unique ones...it doesn't matter. There is always something to be appreciated from mounts. Whether it is the artistry, size, or uniqueness of the mount, I dig it!
6. Farm Ponds
I never take for granted the fact that some very kind people have allowed me to fish their private ponds over the course of my lifetime. I grew up on farm ponds and will hopefully spend the rest of my days enjoying their bounty. Many of my funnest days and most memorable catches have come from farm ponds. I don't know where I would be today without them!
5. Striper Hybrids/Wipers on the Fly
Don't get me wrong, I am NOT an expert on catching these critters but I sure love catching them when I can. I honestly believe that they are the hardest fighting fish that we have in Missouri that you can target on the fly. If I knew how to target flathead catfish I might sing a different tune but I have no idea how to do that. No offense to the trout and smallmouth fishermen, but I think a 4 pound wiper would pull a 4 pound rainbow or smallie around by the tail all day long!
4. 4 Weight Fly Rods
I have often written about my evolution from being a strict 6 weight guy to a more sensitive fella that prefers a 4 weight. I just love feeling more connected to the fish and feeling their every move during a fight.
3. Bennett Spring State Park/The Niangua River
When I want to catch some trout, I go to these places. When I want lots of dumb pellet heads, Bennett is the place. When I want to feel like I really accomplished something and want to appreciate every single fish I catch, I go to the Niangua.
2. The Missouri Department of Conservation
I gotta pay homage right here to MDC. Without them, most of this list isn't possible. Thanks MDC for all you do for us and for giving us places to fish and so many species to chase.
1 B. The Thrill of the Unknown
This is the point right? When you go fishing, you have no idea what species you might catch or how big the fish might be. You might catch 20 fish or you might catch 2. You might catch a bunch of dinks or the fish of a lifetime. You never know what is going to happen which, to me at least, makes our fine sport the most interesting in the world!
1 A. YOU!!!
I know, I know. I said I wasn't going to get sappy but I can't help it. I love managing and writing for this blog but I wouldn't do it anymore without the views and readers. Thank you so much for reading and visiting my small site. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and thank you from the bottom of my heart of taking the time to visit this site. It means a lot to me!
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