The Balm of Adventure | Allen Crater

It’s mid-July, hotter than hell, and the AC in the truck is out. My two sons and I are cruising a Montana highway with the windows down and the music up. Kyle came here in 2018 for college and Blake moved in with him at the start of summer. It’s been awfully quiet in the house without them and even more so since our German shorthair of nearly 14-years crossed the rainbow bridge last week.

 Hazy heart

A heavy blueish-grey haze has hung over me for the last month, much like the valley we now travel through. Missing the boys. Knowing a small tin of ashes that used to be my faithful dog is waiting for me back home. Feeling my age and the eerie emptiness of a quiet house.

“Remember when time was cheap?” Gene Hill wrote. “The songs we sang about it told us that we had time on our hands, that time stood still, that tomorrow would be time enough. And now we find it was not.”

I’m fighting a lump in my throat and tears that threaten to leak out at any moment. I’m fighting to be present. To not spend this inheritance of time frivolously. I need the balm of adventure to heal some of the fresh wounds; the breeze of moments in mountains with loved ones to clear out some of the haze. We have six days, and I’m determined to make them count.

Today we’ll head to the Tobacco Roots and backpack into a remote alpine lake. Cutties, hammocks, food from a camp stove and bourbon from a flask. Just what the doctor ordered. We’ll stay overnight, take our time packing out, then hit the road again, chasing blue lines that haven’t been as affected by the heat. Going wherever the path leads.

Meltwaters

The hike in isn’t bad. After a small creek crossing, it’s maybe four miles, mostly uphill. The boys lead the way and, despite the caboose slowing the train a little, we make it to the lake in about two hours. There are a few other fisherman – day hikers. So we ditch the packs, pitch the tent, grab snacks, stretch the hammocks, and take our time stringing the rods. A few tales from their last outing here has my excitement building. I take a deep breath of pine and lake, look over at my kids, and smile for what feels like the first time in a while. Eventually the other hikers melt away and we have the place to ourselves. The basin quiets and as evening sets in, the water begins to glass out. After putting a few fish in the net, we eat our fill of freeze-dried beef stroganoff and instant mashed potatoes, empty the flasks, and share a pipe as nightfall sets in.  

And that’s when story time begins. The boys fill me in on some of their summer adventures and I share a few anecdotes from my youth that I have held close to the vest until they are “age appropriate”—doling them out judiciously over time, like rations on a lifeboat, in a way dads tend to do. We relive memories of the dog, family trips, previous hikes and hunts, and more than a few fishing debacles. Before I can even realize it, we are all laughing. A bit of the haze hanging over me begins to lift. Eventually we make it into the tent before passing out for the night.

 Head starts, late endings

Suddenly it’s morning. It’s already pretty bright. A quick check of the watch. Seven-thirty. I’m up and exploring the lake before Thing-One and Thing-Two can beat me to it. I need every advantage the situation affords. I manage to trick a couple small ones before I see the boys rustling along the shore, rods in hand. My head start doesn’t last long and I hear about it. Smart-asses. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I can tell you for certain that a caboose rolls much faster downhill than up, especially when the promise of real food and a cold beer lies at the end of the tracks. After we get down from the lake and smash a late lunch, we point the compass northwest. We have a general notion of where we want to go, but my buddy Dan from Whiskey Leatherworks has other, better ideas. A quick stop at his shop proves fortuitous, and when we roll into our campsite well after dinner time, anxious to fish, we’re working promising tail-outs and deep cut banks before the dust from the two-track has even settled, grateful to have accepted his local intel.

 Passed and present

I’m hucking streamers with Blake and observe a nice fish in a sneaky pocket beneath a tree, tight against a boulder. I hit the spot and hook up. The brown trout is giving me a good fight in the fast water and goes airborne before coming unbuttoned. Dammit! Another shot into the spot and I’m hooked up again! This fish feels more substantial; it’s holding in the heavy current, challenging me to move him. I lean into the six-weight to muscle him out, but the streamer again comes unpinned. Double dammit! I fumble to light a cigarette to calm my frazzled nerves, but Kyle is shouting at us from upriver. He’s into a good fish and needs help with the net. We flail upstream as quickly as possible in the quick current and over the polished rock bed and Blake manages to make the scoop. I can’t believe how good the fishing is. Kyle and I each land a few more trout before we all reluctantly leave the river, set up camp, and start dinner. Elk brats with beer and baked beans. A delicious but toxic combination, particularly when small tents are involved.

Smartly, Kyle elects to sleep in the truck bed. He journals the day’s activities while Blake and I play cards by lantern. As we do, caddis fight to draw closer to the flame. It’s been a therapeutic 24 hours that has moved me into the realm of not knowing or caring what day or what time it is. Into the realm of living in the moment. Of being present. For the adventure. For the boys. For myself.

Scrapes, sunburns and stings

I wake up the next morning to stirring outside the tent and find Kyle brewing coffee in the old percolator and cooking breakfast on the camp stove. The smell of eggs and sausage mingle with the fresh mountain air. The delicious harmony draws me back to every camping memory of my last 47 years. It’s a perfect moment. I close my eyes and soak it in.

For the next couple days we explore the miles of river in our backyard. Busting through brush, climbing hills, driving the gravel track along the river to find the next “hot spot.” Riffles and slicks, braided sections, boulder fields, and deep pools. It looks like angling nirvana, and the fishing matches the expectations. We land cutties, browns, bows, brookies and even a couple of surprise bulls, all carefully released back into the swift current. It’s all magical: the setting, the fishing, the wildlife, the sounds and smells. More than anything, the time together in the outdoors.

At one point, we find ourselves at a wide bend that creates a sharp drop-off and a deep whirlpool. Blake makes a cast and is into a nice brown. Then another. And another. And Kyle too. I’m working the same spot but can’t manage to even get a follow as the boys land fish after fish and make it look easy. All I can do is laugh, net fish, take pictures, and endure the verbal taunting I’ve earned. The sun is going down and the mosquitos are ravenous. We’re reluctant to leave such great fishing, especially knowing it’s our last night of the trip, but eventually the bugs, and Dan’s warning of bears, chase us off the water and back to the truck.

It’s a long drive back to camp. I look down at my legs, shredded from bushwhacking. I see the bug bites that cover my hands and arms. I feel the sunburn stinging my neck, the dull ache in my knees and the kink in my back from sleeping on the ground.

And I know it’s just the balm I needed. My body is battered, but my heart is healing.

“Suddenly times to come have become times past, and we must hoard it and spend it cautiously as the tag ends of a small inheritance,” Gene Hill wrote.

I’m grateful for the inheritance.

You can find this article by Allen Crater in the Fall 2021 issue of Fly Fusion.

Echo Expands B Rod Line

Echo Fly Fishing has expanded their successful Eight Four – B rod line designed with big ambush predators in mind and the accuracy to deliver even bigger wind-resistant flies to where these fish live. Adding a 9wt and 10wt rod to the Eight Four lineup rounds out the rods offered to cover all situations anglers could run into while targeting big fish.

The Eight Four – B has become the benchmark for an affordable, accurate rod that combines power and action for all types of fishing from pounding banks with a streamer, to throwing giant baitfish patterns off the deck of a boat. Utilizing a perfectly progressive taper, light tip, and a shorter rod length makes the 84-B a champion at accurate casts over a variety of distances, fly sizes, and wind conditions while the shorter length rod gives you easier line pickup, better accuracy, better castability in wind and best of all, the spritely feel makes it fun to cast all day.

“It didn’t take long for us to realize that a rod that is less than 9 feet has distinct advantages when it comes to fishing for bass or any species of fish that require accuracy, short cycle times between pick up and the next delivery cast, and leverage to drive a cast and move a fish once it is hooked. The rod length that worked best in our tests was 8’4”, explains Echo’s Tim Rajeff.

● 9wt 8’4” Echo 84B – 984
● 10wt 8’4” Echo 84B – 1084

About Echo Fly Fishing
Echo is a small group of passionate, personable, like-minded fly-fisher folk based in Vancouver, Washington. For over 20 years, Echo has been leaning on the fly-fishing pedigree of rod designer Tim Rajeff. Tim is a world champion fly caster and fly-fishing industry stalwart with a passion for creating high-quality performance fly rods. More details about Echo, Rajeff Sports and the Eight Four line can be found at echoflyfishing.com

The Backyard Fly Shop

Fall has arrived in the Rockies and with it cooler mornings. Around this time of year, BWOs and October Caddis become more active on our favourite local streams, which makes for rewarding days on the water. Watching cutthroat rise to blue winged olives and caddis never gets old. Cool fall mornings also bring with them the reminder that winter is just around the bend. Late October into early November is when the first snow lands in our backyard. It is this time of year when we begin to think about prepping gear for the winter haul; that time of year, for many of us, where watching fly-fishing films on the silver screen is as close as we can get to feeding our need to be on the water. 

For those of us without a garage storing gear can be a little tricky. Fly-fishing gear tends to find a winter home in the same vicinity as the lawnmower, work benches and other more utility items. Don’t get me wrong, fly fishing gear holds a place of honour among the winter storage mess. But the rafts, waders and boots are all stored in the same place as, well, fuel containers, shovels, tools and the rest. It never quite sits right with me that our families fly-fishing gear is hanging above or sitting beside the “junk” that accumulates.

Now, we don’t do reviews that are unrelated to outdoor pursuits, and for obvious reasons we tend to recommend items that we think will make your time on the water a little more successful. This review isn’t that. Instead it focuses on a product that Fly Fusion now uses to create a fly-fishing specific storage space. Easy access to everything needed on those rare warm winter days. No fuel, no table saws, no spare side-by-side tires; just our favourite brand decals along with fly-fishing equipment neatly stored and ready for use. 

This is the storage equivalent of a “man-cave” or “she-shed” inspired by nature and repurposed for fly-fishing. The Keter shed collection’s technology offers a beautiful true-to-life wood look that complements the outdoors and blends in seamlessly with your own backyard setting. From spacious sheds to deck boxes, these shed solutions are made from a durable, weather-resistant resin. They handle being exposed to water, sun and salt, and will not crack, rot, rust or peel like traditional wooden storage solutions in the same style.

Fly Fusion spent the summer testing the capacity and monitoring the weathering of the Keter Signature Collection 11 x 7  shed and deck box, the latter used for deflated rafts and wading boot storage. The size was ideal and the colour of the material stood the test of the summer weather. We enjoyed turning the inside into an area tailored to fly-fish gear storage, were impressed by it’s durability and love that Keter, the manufacturer of the shed, is committed to sustainability, using 100% recyclable material. For insight into the products, when not in use, we stored in the shed – this year’s time-tested gear – pick up a copy of the upcoming winter issue of Fly Fusion. Better yet, if you haven’t already, subscribe and we’ll pop it in your mailbox. Here’s to the remaining weeks of this fly-fishing season and to creative storage ideas that we can convert into our own little fly shops in the back yard. Be sure to visit your local fly shop often to keep your new space full of the latest gear. For additional information on Keter or to purchase your very own backyard fly shop, visit them online: www.keter.com

We wanted to let you know that a small increase in our subscription prices is coming soon—the first in five years. To help you prepare for this change, we are offering our lowest prices ever throughout the month of September. This is the perfect time to renew your subscription or start a new one to lock in this exceptional rate before prices go up. Plus, if you choose the Auto Renew option, we’ll include a free Airflo Leader as a special bonus. Don’t wait—this limited-time offer won’t last, and once it’s over, these prices will be gone for good!

 

2024 Stimmies Winner Announced

Presented by Fly Fusion magazine and the International Fly Fishing Film Festival, the Stimmie Awards recognizes top emerging filmmakers, amateur and professional alike. Finalists participate in a month-long vote reaching anglers around the world. We are stoked to announce this year’s winning filmmakers.

Congratulations to Eric and Andrew Braker for winning Fly Fusion’s 4th annual Stimmie Awards! Their film “Dawson” was voted the winning film. Check out the full film on Fly Fusion Streaming.

About Dawson: Most of us have envisioned a four-legged companion joining us on all of our fishing adventures! Charles Meier has been in love with fly fishing for as long as he can remember, and he is almost always with his partner in crime, Dawson, exploring the beautiful waters and landscapes of Montana.

Thanks to all participants and finalists for their outstanding film work.

Buffet Series Season 4 launches tomorrow!

Season 4 of the Buffet Series launches tomorrow! Whether your preference is fly fishing for trout in a cold mountain stream, bonefish on a secluded flat, or large mouth bass in your favorite warm water pond, this series has something for you!

Watch on flyfusionstreaming.com for new episodes weekly. Plus, when you sign up before the end of July, you will receive 30-days free access to hundreds of fly fishing films, tutorials, biographies and more…including exclusive access to all past seasons of the International Fly Fishing Film Festival and Fly Fusion Series.

We are so excited to share the five new episodes of the Buffet Series, and a massive giveaway as well! Everyone receives a digital copy of the new book “Confidence Flies” just for entering.

ENTER HERE!

Read on for a list of the amazing prizes to won…

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Stimmies 2024 | Angler’s Choice Vote Open!

The Stimmies Fly Fishing Film Awards Angler’s Choice Vote is live today!  The Stimmies recognizes top fly-fishing filmmakers from around the globe and the top-10 finalists have been selected by our judge panel. Now it’s your turn to have a say in who wins!  Watch the films and make your vote for top  film of 2024!

LINK TO WATCH

Your vote will also qualify YOU for weekly draws for fly fishing swag.

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Grasshoppers and Gladwell | Derek Bird

I want to tell you about my favorite trout from this past summer, but I face a conundrum. I’m certain I remember the day in vivid detail, but more and more over the last few years psychologists and podcasters remind me that memories are unreliable. Are memories really unreliable? The most memorable podcast I’ve listened to on the unreliability of memory was a Malcom Gladwell podcast titled “Free Brian Williams”. And since then, I’ve had to tune out a number of experts discussing the unreliability of memories.

What should I do? Should I forge ahead with the retelling of my favorite fish memory from the summer or should I simply realize that my memories are similar to the meat versus filler ratio of a McDonald’s chicken nugget (45% percent meat, 55 percent “other ingredients” for the wondering mind). Did I even catch fish this past summer? I’m so confused. In spite of Gladwell, I’ll give it a try anyway.

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Fly Fusion Series Season Four is going live!

This month marks the first ever Freeview of the Fly Fusion Streaming platform!  For the next 30 days you can sign up and receive a full month of fishy films for free.  And, in addition to the hundreds of fly fishing centric stories, adventures, tutorials and biographies – you can now watch brand-spanking new episodes of the Fly Fusion Series!

Episode One: Familiar Flow can be found HERE.  (Simply click “get access now” add your info and watch the full episode free.)

 

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The ORVIS Special Edition Four Wheel Camper

For over a year, Orvis and Four Wheel Campers have been crafting the ultimate pop-up truck camper for full-sized trucks, designed specifically to elevate fly fishing adventures. This collaboration between two iconic brands, each a leader in their respective outdoor niches, brings an unparalleled offering to the fly-fishing and camping community. Renowned for their commitment to quality and durability, both companies have poured their expertise into this camper. The official partnership, which began in 2023 under the guidance of Orvis’ Product Design and Development Director Shawn Combs and Community Leader Davis James, alongside FWC’s President Dan Welty, represents the pinnacle of innovation and tradition.

Fly fishermen have long relied on Four Wheel Campers for their angling excursions, and this new product takes that experience to the next level. Key features include a lockable rod bunker for up to six fly rods and a mud locker with waterproof storage and drain for wet gear. The camper also boasts a vertically mounted exterior L-track system for flexible gear mounting, as well as upgraded cabinetry, countertops, fabrics, and appliances to ensure comfort in all seasons. Imagine heading out to your favorite fishing spot, knowing your gear is securely stored in the rod bunker, ready for action. The mud locker ensures that your wet gear won’t create a mess, keeping your camper clean and organized. The L track system provides the flexibility to mount your essential gear on the exterior, allowing you to customize your setup according to your needs.

Inside, you’ll find comfort and convenience. The upgraded cabinetry provides a sturdy and stylish workspace. Anglers can choose between a portable induction or propane stove, a new option for FWC. High-quality fabrics and appliances have been chosen to withstand the rigors of outdoor life, ensuring you remain comfortable no matter the season. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in this camper reflect the values of both Orvis and Four Wheel Campers. Each element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance outdoor adventures, making this camper not just a vehicle, but a reliable partner in fly-fishing journeys.

As you venture into the wild, you’ll appreciate the legacy of innovation and excellence that defines this collaboration. Both Orvis and Four Wheel Campers have a long history of producing products that stand the test of time, and this camper is no exception. It’s built to be enjoyed for decades, offering a durable and dependable base for countless fishing trips. The Orvis Special Edition Four Wheel Camper is more than just a product; it’s a testament to what can be achieved when two industry leaders combine their strengths. This camper is designed to meet the needs of serious anglers, providing a perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fisherman or just starting out, this camper will elevate your outdoor experiences, allowing you to focus on what you love most—fly fishing and enjoying the great outdoors.