FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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When we got back from our hike I took this from 20ft away in the back yard.  A good buck with room to grow.

We are sure enjoying watching the bucks mature.  This guy was with a bigger older buck who is on the decline comparing horns.  This one on the other hand is headed to a 5×5 thanks to his eye guards.  Our backyard is one wild place, and we love it.

After spending the last couple of days doing things to the house we took the day off and made a drive north of Creede.  The house is slowly taking shape, it is a process but things are coming along.  But it is a labor of love, for the first time in my life I really feel like I belong, and I am so thankful to be here.

Tuesday – The Bachelor Loop

Creede Colorado is an old mining town that is now a tourist destination and about 20 miles from the house.  There are over a dozen old mines on a really cool drive, so we decided to give it a go and it was a great ride.  Most of the mines played out over the years but that is about to change.  The Last Chance Mine is open as an attraction, and you can tour it and do a little mining.  The Equity mine which is at the end of the line has been there for over a 100 years and is going to be re-opened for real mining soon.  The area had lots of gold and silver along with other minerals taken out over the years and looks like after their exploration it can still produce enough to make it worth it.  The drive is not full on 4wheel, but it is steep and high going through a stunning canyon.

Looking down on Creede from the mountain at the Last Chance Mine.

An old mine way the heck down there.

The same mine but taken with the 600mm from the same perch.

Need some rocks?  The Last Chance Mine has them.

It amazes me those old miners in the late 1800’s walked all the way up the canyon and then drilled into the side of the mountains.

Bachelor City.  At one-point multiple hotels, gambling dens, saloons, and stores.  Now all that is left is some metal and a fallen down house or two.  Back to the land.

The town was a real wild west town full of tough folks and plenty of outlaws.  We followed the trail, it was amazing how little of town is left.  While only a couple of fallen down log structures are left but the area was littered with old tin with few indications of what was there.  We went ahead and hiked into the aspen woods above it to the top of the mountain.  We both enjoy just wandering around, you never know what you will find.

Taking a break in an aspen grove at 10,500 feet.  Cool little hike.

She was bedded down right by the road.  I am really learning to love mule deer.

As I type this the next morning there is an old woman standing in front of me, pack, bear spray, and camera, guess I will take the hint and out we go for a little hiking and fishing.  Fresh trout for supper.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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Wednesday

The Boss was wanting a fish fry so we decided to head to the Big Meadow area.  First up we went almost to the tree line for a hike.  That area had a fire a few years ago and we wanted to just wander around at almost 11,000 feet.

Parked the truck and headed to the woods for our hike.  Still a little snow on the mountains.

There was very little sign other than an occasional bone or two.

But stuff is starting to grow and the aspens are really spreading.

It looked like a bomb went off.

We had a great hike.  While I am getting accustomed to the altitude we take it slows, plenty of water and the occasional break.  We carry bear spray, a side arm, and basic things like compass, fire starter, and emergency blankets to name a few.  Though we hope we never need any of it, after working in emergency medicine and the wife still in the ER we know shit happens.  Never forget this is the woods.  I am going to add a GPS emergency satellite beacon as much time as we are spending way up and out of cell range much less with very few folks around.

After the hike I caught a limit of trout out of the lake and we had her fish fry.  One thing I really like about the fishing here: Want to be fancy break our the long rod, want supper head to the lake and catch stockers, either way fish on the line.  As far as I am concerned there is no better way to spend the day.  The Boss has 2 more full days before flying back so it will be out and gone tomorrow.

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It has been so dry here in Colorado and consequently the threat of fires is rising.  At this moment there are 4 fires in the area and the biggest is way up in the mountains and the fire departments are unable to get to it.  It grew rapidly and is now drawing a serious response.  None are currently a threat to our house, and all fires are now banned when camping or picnicking.  As dry as it is and with the wind blowing in a cold front the danger is high.  Hurricane or fire, nothing to mess with and only fools ignore official warnings.

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One More Run

I just renewed my website for 3 more years.  Guess I have more to say and many more pictures and adventures to share.  But the process was stupid.  It all had to do with my debit card on file with them some piece of shit tried to use so it was cancelled and a new one issued.  So I get an email that stuff is due, but being out here I do not have all the pins and numbers that are required to pay online.  I call and since I do not have this and that we have to go through an email exchange to verify I am me and take my money.  Think about the following question I asked:  I am on the phone with you and cannot pay without further action so here is my question:  Are you telling me you have random persons who call and pay other folks bills?  He said yes, lots of time.  Ok see if they will pay mine.  Bullshit, but at least it is paid and the blog goes on.  And to the few of you who said keep it going keep on reading.  Thanks.

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There is what a couple of grown folks did for 2 days, and it continues.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

No adds today.  My keyboard has decided the cursor will no longer work with my finger so I can not copy and paste but will just write.  If I was in Texas it would be simple, put a mouse on and make sure it is just the pad on the laptop.  It has been a real hassle getting this done, and while not perfect it was a fabulous day.  So here you go.

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Doing it with my best friend.

The Boss is here for a good 10 days and the first couple we had a few things going.  I had a guy help me and got the gutters on the first day she was here.  Day 2 we did the farmers market thing and then headed to Creede for the rock and mineral show at the big mine.  Finally, today we got to do our favorite, up and gone before day light and it was a slam bang success.

Big meadows at the tree line, somewhere around 11.000.  

Today the plan was head up to Summitville which was an old mining town at 11.500 feet that gets around 40 feet of snow.  Suffice to say it is way the heck up there, which is exactly what we were wanting.  It is an actual caldera formed from a volcanic explosion and still has some remnants of the old town.  It is now a Superfund Site that millions and millions are being spent to clean it up after the last company used all the chemicals to extract the gold and silver.  The drive we took was at big elevation and was approximately 50 miles and below is the reason why.

Momma grouse was not wanting to cross the road, and then we saw why.

She had a  couple of chicks that were in no big hurry.

As soon as we got above 10,000 feet it was a buck mule deer extravaganza.  It seemed the does were kind of here and there, but some of the bucks are hanging with their bro’s.  And today we hit it just right and saw some really nice bucks.  A lot of these pics are taken from a really long way out.  They may not all be perfect, but you get the point.

He as with 4 of his buddies.  One nice buck.

As far as the 600mm will reach.

This is the whole bunch and they just meandered off.

We watched these guys for a while and though they knew we were there no panic, they just moved off.  But before we even moved the truck we spotted these guys further up the tree line, and they were another story.

Even further back was these 2 guys.

There was 3 this size further away and once they are on to us they literally flew across the meadow.  

There were 3 big bucks watching us that we did not see.  Once they got a real bead on us there was no mule deer hopping away, these guys booked.  As we have learned over the years, the further into the back country you get the wilder the deer are.  We are happy and proud to get what we do.  When you see those photos from Yellowstone and Tetons as an example, they are taken of animals that see hundreds of cars a day, and in places like that they really don’t care about you unless you intentionally disturb them.  So while nice anyone with a good phone and a little editing can take a great picture.  Getting most of them to cooperate takes effort and luck.  But we love seeing them, a great photo is a bonus.

I will never grow tired of this.

Saw plenty of girls today.

The animals were on the move.  Why we get up and get into the mountains before daylight.

It was truly a buck kinda day.  And with them in velvet they just look cool.  The boys are all friendly right now, but that will change really soon as our mornings are cooling off just a little more each week.  Soon they will be rubbing the velvet off and then the rut will be on.  As October wears on seeing them scuffling is fairly common and a sight to see.

What else to say about this big guy.  So beautiful.

We did not see any elk, which surprised me as we were in the real woods.  But that is part of what makes it what it is, you never know.  The camera stays in the truck full time, especially with fall coming and with it the return of the turkeys and deer to the neighborhood.  As I just said about never knowing a prairie dog (Huh!) runs by the door on the breezeway.

Last was took a hike in a big valley so I could look at the creek for fishing possibilities, It is so cool to stand in a small river in the high mountains catching brook trout the size of your hands.  Come give that a go, the water is crystal clear, sometimes time inches deep and the fly is the size of a fly.  A real challenge but all you have to do is look up.  It is in the doing, the results are just a benefit.  We did get lucky and found an old moose shed.  It had been there a few years, but it just confirmed what I thought, there could be moose there.  After a lunch in the valley time to call it one successful day.  But after a stellar day we got just a little luckier.

Close to the house there was an old lady having a yard sale.  We stopped, like we need more stuff, but jackpot.  I love my treadmill, got hooked on it before Peru and since we are now at 8,500 feet the altitude adjustment has been fairly easy.  She had one and sold it to us for $30 so will have one here and in Texas before we hit the road for good next year.  And I had just said on our creek hike that hip boats would be plenty, no need to wear the Simms through the woods and rough country for a foot of water.  Nancy looks over and there is a brand-new pair of good ones in a box, my size, and she took $20.  So while we are not big sale people that was one good stop.

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Saturday was farmers market and then headed to Creede for the rock and mineral show.  Lots of cool stuff in a cool little town.  Amazing what a rock polisher can do, and there was some really beautiful stuff.  We had lunch, then I hit both fly shops before heading back.  On the way ran into a nice bunch of sheep.

Saturday on the way back from the mineral show at the mine we came across momma and baby.

Love me some sheep.

I have always had a spot for Bighorn sheep, one cool animal who lives in one cool place.  Before we moved I knew there were a few sheep but as we spend more time in the mountains, we have seen quite a few not that far from the house.  This bunch are definitely getting their new coat, like the mule deer are.  As you can see in these pictures it is dry here, and we badly need rain.  The small creeks way up will not have much water in them soon, the river is dropping fast.

Not a ram in the bunch but still cool to see.

In the next few days will be in sheep country as there is a road north we plan on driving.  From there up to a high lake to catch some supper, and it happens to be where we have seen moose and plenty of sheep.

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Just having too much fun.  And will be fishing the small stream behind us soon.

The Boss is ready to get out her kayak and do a little paddling while I catch supper. Get up and get out, it is good for the soul.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff,

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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One great full moon.  Too bad it was cloudy the last few nights, could have gotten one better than this by a long shot.

Success comes one day at a time.

One day and one step at a time.  For my 3rd run at small stream trout I significantly downsized fly and leader size and lo and behold they liked it.  Location was no big deal, like all trout it is clear where they are positioned big river or small.  Guess catching a few gazillion on the White Rive taught me something.

Ahhh ….Success.

Heading back to the same creek I fished 2 days ago it was a couple more bites than last time.  The big difference is I managed to catch 2.

Downsizing sure made a difference on these small stream Brook trout.

While these are little guys that is not the point.  (I could go to the river right down the street for bigger fish.)  There are obviously bigger fish in some of the creeks and by the time it freezes up I will know a lot more than I do now about fishing them.  It is so cool to see them come out of water that could not possibly have a fish in it.  On the creek I have been fishing casting distance is irrelevant, accuracy is paramount.

Again, I made a couple of mistakes setting the hook, it really is more of a lifting as opposed to most other hook setting.  Plus, when using 2lb test it does not take much to break them off, which so far I have managed not to do.  After a little over an hour a big cloud formed and it started to rain, which is not a problem for me.  But…..big thunder and lightning started and if there is one place I do not want to be it is in the water waving around a long rod.  Obviously, a good time to call it a day.  Like I said when we bought here the ability to leave the house and in nothing flat be fishing some great water was part of the plan.  And I have started to tie my own flies, they may be ugly but as long as the fish eat them, I am all about it.  So, the adventure continues.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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The boys were gone from the neighborhood for a while but are back.  Will be a pleasure to watch them mature and get out of velvet.  And with the number here it should be an interesting rut this fall.

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Monday Morning

Having spent plenty of time working on the house and yard was looking forward to this morning.  A little job here, then one there, the list goes on.  But just like in Texas do stuff that needs doing on the weekends, fish on weekdays.  So, this morning first up was a couple of hours on the river then went to the creek for a while.  It was not fast either place, but I did catch 6 so not too bad.

A nice brown trout on a red wooly bugger.

Starting with the fly above I caught one and missed another.  The river is dropping fast and the bite remains a little tough, though they are catchable and will be time to do some serious wading.  The plan was to wade the creek and just bank fish the river.

3 Jumped on the minnow bait.

After a slow bite on the fly decided to toss the minnow bait and ended up catching 3.  And let me put in a word for the fish.  Minnow baits will catch the browns, but it is important to pinch the barbs down on the trebles.  Not only it is totally easier on the fish, but it also sure helps taking them off and reduces the possibility of getting a hook in you that you cannot get out.  So since they were willing time to change flies and find something they like better.  Oops, pretty hard to tie on a different fly when I left the 2 boxes on the bench at the house.

But that really was no big deal as the house is on the way to the creek.  Loaded up, stopped by the house and got the flies and off to the small creek.  It is so amazing how much water is here, a quick trip between the 2 is no big deal.   One word on pictures, when I got to the creek and caught a small the camera battery died.  Dang it because an hour later a really nice one for that small a creek jumped on.  Oh well, it was a good one.  The bite was a little slower than it was but the creek is also dropping and clear as a bell.

But it was still a dry fly bite, to bad just like last time here comes the thunder and lightning with a little rain so I called it a morning.   Each time I learn something.  Though I have caught them on the long rod there is still a long way to go and it is going to be fun.  I was mad that the camera was dead as I wanted to give you a cool shot of the creek, but no big deal, depending on the weather will be back there soon.  And speaking of weather I have had the windows open full time since I have been here and today with the clouds it is perfect.  Just thought I would throw that out there for you folks burning up in Texas.

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This from Winfred a long time reader.

still enjoying your posts. I was in Durango a couple of weeks ago and it seemed the river flow was still high. There was still a lot of snow up high. We used to hunt around Plitero before we got to old. Have you fished the lakes there? Since I know the area you live in, I really enjoy your blogs.

With my limited experience and speaking with other fishermen and the owner of one of the local fly shops it is an interesting year.  The water on this side of the divide was really high going into July, way too high on the river for an old man like me to wade.  Now it is dropping fast, it looks like the “season” for the float trips will be really short this year.  Add the high-water temps they are now fishing half day trips and quitting by early afternoon.  That could change if we get some real rain but that has been really spotty.  We have not been to the Plitero area but will get out the topo map and find it and the lakes.  It is going to be a year of exploration, so many places so little time.  And I so appreciate you sticking with me all these years.  Thanks for commenting.

And speaking of reading the blog my host just used my “old” debit card for annual payment like I have done for years, but it was declined.  I had to get a new one when some maggot tried to hijack my card a few months ago.  Now it is 2 weeks to either pay up or call it a day.  This decision is hard and will be made before the last day.

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The Boss will be here in 2 days and it will be more like vacation.  We will be hitting the woods and water hard, burning the candle at both ends before she heads back next week.  And since there has been some serious progress around here, I will be interested in what she thinks.  But she did say no more until she gets here, somebody has to watch me.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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WTF RANT!

The new Superintendent of the Houston schools has done the unthinkable – He has ordered the closing of 28 libraries in 28 schools and is eliminating the librarian positions.  And even worse he is turning those into detention centers.   Going to put chains on the floor so you can chain them up?  Why not just go ahead and make them into cells?  Maybe re-education centers in what HE believes is right? What’s next, book burnings?  Maybe banning books simply because HE does not like them?  Reading is the key to knowledge and learning; guess he wants those children to stay ignorant.  Great plan pinhead, you are a sorry excuse for an educator.  Nothing, and I mean nothing good will come of this.  Why such a big rant, we are library lovers and reading is a big part of our life.  I just do not get it.

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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After getting a few things done this morning time to head to Big Meadow and catch some supper.  One of the things I so love about here is that option, just head up to one of the many lakes and put a few in the pan.  And who does not want to enjoy this view while fishing?

Big Meadow, my favorite grocery store.

The wind was blowing pretty good today, and we actually got a sprinkle or two.  Went to my go-to spot for supper which is about 15 minutes from the house.  Between it and Beaver there are plenty of stockers to catch and it is easy from the bank.  Whether lures or if you want to get right to the harvest, salmon eggs.  So, I grabbed my supper and headed back to the house.

2 stockers for the pan.  Before and……..

…,,,,After.

I must admit it sure is nice not messing with the boat.  But don’t get me wrong I am still looking for the perfect boat for these lakes.  You can tell looking at the picture above it is very representative of the size of many of the lakes.  It does not require a big boat nor a big engine, but it needs to be big enough to fish a few of the other lakes that are somewhat bigger than the close ones.  So that search continues, and I am sure I will know it when I see it.  But no hurry, still looking forward to spending a little more time with the fly rod in my hands.

But work on the house continues as I strive to make it perfect.  The gutter guys are coming in a couple of days, and just sold a fence around the house, he will be here Thursday to take it down.  It just does not fit the “decor” and there is no dog in our future.  So the projects continue, but it is not like I don’t have the time, and with the woods and water right around the corner I will be sure to get some in every day.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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The small stream exploration continues.  There is plenty of them around so I picked the one closest to the house for another go.  Beaver Creek is just right, no waders needed but it is cold.  And don’t forget your bear spray.

A really open area compared to the rest of it.

It is close casting with stuff everywhere so pinpoint casting is required.  Starting with a dry fly, not sure what it is called, 3 small ones, what most in the small high streams are, took a pass at it but did not even come close to hooking up.  I finally lost it in a tree behind me so next it was a hopper that my buddy Rusty tied.  Finally had a nice one blow up on it, but again no hook up.  I had one more halfhearted bite and called it as it clouded up and finally started raining.

Looking back on it I learned 2 things.  First it must have been an issue of the size of the flies.  These small creek brook trout are little, so little they will get.  On the way to the house stopped at Tricia’s fly shop and bought a few to copy at the tying table.  The Boss got me the works last Christmas and part of this adventure is matching the hatch whether a small high stream or the Rio.  But on the flip side I had no trouble reading the water, my bites all came exactly where I thought they would.  If I have learned nothing else most fish inhabit easily identifiable places, and these trout are no different.  So, it was more my execution than anything else and that is easily cured with experience.

While at the shop a couple of guides came in and reported what is basically slow fishing.  They were very honest with a couple of guys looking for a trip.  Monday 4 boats caught 8 fish, but the one group caught 15 today, so whether here or Texas, fishing is still fishing.  The water was high later this year with runoff and now it is warming fast.  They are basically only fishing morning trips until a little rain helps cool it some, which we are getting today.  One thing is for sure the bugs are out in the afternoon, when it warms there are hatches of little, tiny things.  A lot to learn but that is part of it.  Stay tuned I might actually catch one tomorrow.

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This from Ryan.

I’ve enjoyed reading your honest and informative fishing reports for years for both Coleto and the coast. Your adventures in the mountains are also a great read, especially as my wife steers us toward San Antonio after a week of vacation around Colorado Springs and south Denver. We’ll miss the cool mornings when we get home tonight.

In a few weeks I’ll be taking my 80 year old dad to a club tournament on Coleto, I’m wondering if you could share a couple mid august pointers that could start us in the right direction.

Keep up the great posts – I’ll keep reading them.

First off, I cannot tell you how much I enjoy the cool mornings, or the evening sitting on the porch with a book and a cold one.  So nice to have the house open 24/7.  But on the blog front the thing I appreciate most is you calling my reports honest and informative.  If nothing else I strive to make them as accurate as possible, a fishing report is what it is.  At times I am one of the greatest fishermen to ever hold a rod, others I couldn’t catch a starving fish in a bucket with live minnows.  All of us who are “hard core” know that we all have our days.  In the telling I always hope someone gets one thing out of all this blather, sharing knowledge is what makes it fun for me.   Why secrecy and lies have been a part of fishing for all time is beyond me.

Now to August on Coleto, we can both do the exact same thing, look it up which is what I just did.  Go to the search box at the top of the blog on the right and read each August Coleto report going back for years.  It was very informative, and I realize how much I have forgotten, and a pattern does begin to emerge.   So do a little reading it might surprise you as it did me.  Can you say buzzbait early?

So here is my first take, buzzbait until the sun if full up or an hour or so with no bites.  It seems in August when you catch a couple you have a shot at a good one.  While I have not fished it in a while, I have no clue as to what the water level is considering cover and the current water temp.  Concentrate on anywhere there is cover, especially on points and do not give up on the retrieve until it is halfway back to the boat.   One thing that was apparent from the reading was if you get the big bite re-fish it with plastics, that seemed to be successful.  If there is cover of any sort give the buzzbait an early go, it has caught me plenty of big fish on the lake, even in the throes of summer.

And most of my fishing at that time of year is way up the Coleto arm and pitch either a stick worm or pit boss style plastic.  Any color is fine as long as it is watermelon red.  And concentrate on hard wood like stumps or logs on deeper banks.  And I always peg the slip sinker on the plastic to keep the hangs to a minimum.  Another simple method up lake is using a bluegill swim jig on a slow steady retrieve.   And by “up lake” I mean above the bridge and keep on going until the lake takes the big left and you are “up lake.”  Shallow fishing is my thing and it has served me well on Coleto.  So good luck and let us know how you do, hope he catches a big one.  And thanks for reading.

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A few years ago, we were watching a bison kill in Yellowstone when out of the woods came a grizzly.  When he got on top of the kill, I realized just how big that bear was.  And if I leaned one thing it was stay as far away as you can to observe wildlife, it is a privilege that is in danger of being restricted in our parks due to the increased visitation by knuckleheads.  Long camera lens and good binocs can get you as close as you need to when bears, wolves, or bison, much less rutting elk are in view.  My biggest suggestion is there are a couple of companies that rent spotting scopes, a investment worth every cent.

If you happen to be in a park or anywhere else and someone is harassing, or way to close to wildlife, be sure if you film them turn around and film their license plate.  It is getting worse and worse and if it does not slow down, it could affect the way the parks operate.  When they are breaking the law or park rules it is time to hold them to account.  I could give a rat’s ass if they get eaten or trampled, in fact it would be cool to see.  I care about the wildlife and have no sympathy for ignorant “tourons”.  If you are stupid enough to get close to a dangerous animal, you deserve exactly what you get, either legally or with a well-deserved thrashing.

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And speaking of bears they are sure out and about the area.  Lots of folks are posting game and Ring cam footage of bears as they meander around town.  Of course, they are looking for food.  In one of the latest the bear came on the front porch in an attempt to get at the hummingbird feeder.  We can all live with them with just a little common sense; it is not their fault as they are just looking for an easy meal.  This is their yard; we are just privileged to be living in it.

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Tomorrow there is several folks coming to do several things so I will be stuck at the house most of the day.  But if things go well, it will be the end of the major projects.  While I have several other ideas the Boss has informed me no major changes until she gets here next week. somebody needs to supervise me.  She will be staying a little over a week before she flies back.  Then in just a little over a month we will be celebrating my belated birthday present, a trip to Teton and Yellowstone.  Following that in October it will be back to Texas to take advantage of the fall fishing at least until the end of the year.  It will be interesting on the blog the next few months so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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Don’t read this if it will get your delicate panties in a wad.

And one last thing.  I forgot to mention I drank a Bud Light.  And guess what?  I did not “turn” gay or want to change my gender.  Come on folks lighten up, it is just freakin’ beer. And if you are all about the sexuality of other folks that is kinda scary.

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

After spending Sunday morning working on the “finished” garage I decided to head way up above South Forks, in fact 20 miles, for a high mountain hike.  It was 86 when leaving the house but 70 degrees when I got to the old forest service road that I have seen in my travels.

It is closed to motor vehicles but open for foot and horses.  Now this road is way up in the middle of nowhere.  Being out of cell phone service preparation is the key to not screwing up.  Bear spray, pistol, walking stick, compass, fire starter, small first aid kit, water, emergency blanket, and letting the Boss know where I was hiking in case the bear gets me, or I don’t contact her when back in cell service.

Crazy beautiful.

The house is at 8,500 feet and there is a certain amount of acclimating to the altitude.  When you have lived at 600 feet it takes just a little getting used to.  But when you head up well over 10,000 you can feel the difference.  So I took it slow and hiked a mile or so out and then back.  Suffice to say I could feel it, all a part of learning to live here and enjoy all that it offers.

This tree is just cool.

Different.

Millions of trees have been killed in Colorado by the Emerald Ash Borer and I am guessing that it was the culprit in the demise of this tree.  It easily caught my eye, one of those stumps that if you look at it just right you can see all kinds of images.  Reminds me of the trees in Lord of the Rings.

A closed forest service road.  Great way to hike.

The real pleasure of a hike this high, dead silence other than the rustling of the leaves and the occasional bird.  The only wildlife besides the ever present ground squirrels, a mule deer did cross the trail way in front of me.  But there was plenty of sign of both elk and mule deer, and some bear scat on the trail.  And I am still looking forward to finding my first elk shed but it was not to be today.

A small high mountain lake.

If my exploration of these types of places continues like it looks like it is time for one of those emergency beacon GPS that allows you to keep in touch via email, and if needed to send an emergency signal to a center that monitors the satellite that it operates off.  Anything could happen no matter how careful you are and with cell service 15 miles down the mountain it will be good investment.  While I am getting “old” I do not plan to slow down, and definitely love hiking in the real outdoors.  And a hike to high mountain lake with trout is coming soon.

It really was a high mountain hike.

So no matter where you are get out there and do something.  Life is short and the world awaits.  It does not have to be a big mountain, or some exotic location, but get off the couch and do something outside of your comfort zone.  If this old man can do it so can you.  Make your own adventure, you will be better for it.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

I got this kind comment from Rick, a long-time reader.

Still read and appreciate every post you publish. You are the perfect example of “if you can dream it, you can do it”. I’m so tired of people that are always complaining about everything under the sun when all they need to do is get off their ass and make something happen. You sir are a do’er and I’m so happy you have found your paradise!

First off thanks for sticking with me.  And you are so right about folks complaining and then not doing.  I have always said it is in the doing and the Boss and I have confirmed that over and over.  She says we all have a habit of staying in our warm and fuzzy spot, easier that way.  And if you are comfortable doing that good for you.  Adventure awaits those who overcome their fears and take the plunge.  Does it always work out, of course not.  But we only get one run at this and we choose to live it.  That nonsense he who dies with the most toys wins.  A better saying:  He who dies with the least regrets wins.  As usual your comments are appreciated.

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My buddy Rusty, an accomplished fly fisherman and tier,sent along this comment on my first venture into high mountain small stream fishing.

Get you a 6’-1wt “buggy whip” for those small creeks. There are some gorgeous small trout in there.

It does not matter where or what you fish for, we all need more stuff.  In this case it is right on point, the whole venture is a major downsize operation.  I thought my 3-wt was small but if I am going to spend the rest of my life on this path guess I will buy “one more rod.”  (Sure, just one more rod.)  As usual appreciate your comments and advice.  Nothing better than help from someone who has “been there done that.”

And a side note on “one more rod.”  As I start to downsize and transfer the stuff I intend to keep a huge pile of fishing stuff is now taking shape in my tackle room.  Amazing how much stuff I have accumulated over the years and the time has come to be realistic on what I will save and what will be sold.  In the future I will only buy “one more rod.”

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You Must Be Kidding Me 

I know you may not care about my past postings on Chronic Wasting disease, but if you care about the whitetail population in Texas, or you are a big hunter please read the following posted on the TPWD website.

News Release: July 19, 2023: Chronic Wasting Disease is a Real Threat to Texas Deer – TPWD

Amazing how in this post they put the onus on landowners and hunters for the problem that may have originated in captive populations.  If this is such a serious problem, then why not one word on most cases which have come from captive deer breeding facilities.  While that may be true due to more testing, so what, it is here.  The breeders sell high dollar deer to rich landowners and high dollar high fence operations, which in the long run are not relevant to most Texas hunters.   I just do not understand whoever wrote this; completely ignoring the breeders where the problem has been repeatedly detected.   I find this to be completely self-serving and a complete failure to address the elephant in the room.  They seem to say we can solve the problem, which is nonsense.  They just had a release not a week ago on cases found in captive breeding populations, but hey, they want us to do this and that when a big part of the problem is staring them in the face.  Hypocritical.   Like I continually say, follow the money.

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Today it is a quick stop at the lumber company, as I make our home a better place it is always something.  But then off to one of the local lakes to catch some stockers for supper.  Then if things work out it will be some serious fly fishing tomorrow.  Some many things to do and so little time, but it sure is fun doing it.  So keeps stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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Rant -The World Has Gone Nuts

Florida’s 2023 Social Studies curriculum will include lessons on how “slaves developed skills” that could be used for “personal benefit,” according to a copy of the state’s academic standards.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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How can you have a successful failure?  First take a look at the view below, that is where I tried something new to me.  So would you call this view a success?  I call it paradise.

My fishing spot at 10,000 plus this morning.

The first stop was Beaver Lake for a few quick lure casts.  I managed a couple of stockers but with it getting later in the morning wanted to head way up to fish a little tiny stream.  On a prior trip to a lake even higher up I saw this valley with a small stream running through it and always wanted to give it a go.

Best looking parking lot in a while.

When I got there not a soul in sight when a couple of guys pulled up, and kindly asked which way I was going as they did not want to crowd me.  Very nice of them.  Informed them that I was not a danger to the fish and go ahead and just start a little above me which they did.

So lets get to the failure.  Other than catching really small chubs on my grandparent’s farm when I was little, I have never attempted such a small creek.  This creek was crystal clear, and obviously the fish were in the undercut banks as other than a few shoots there was nothing deeper than inches.

As to my flyfishing ability I am a rank amateur.  I can catch a few on the river and lakes, but this is a whole other animal.  Locally there have been fish caught on a dry fly in multiple places so I tied on a really small one on a 2lb fluro leader.  The bugs are out here, the mosquitoes were out in force along with other flying critters.  But my best efforts did not produce a bite.  I was beginning to wonder if it was not me, but that was answered by the 4 or 5 other guys fishing the valley.  So it was me, which is not surprising as this was my first go at a high tiny mountain stream.  But no hurry that will come.

I have been so fortunate in my life to have caught marlin to bass, reds to tarpon and plenty in between.  At this point in my life it really has become NOT all about the catching.  In our travels several guides reminded us to always stop and look around and not forget where you are.  Remember it is in the doing.  Well, I am living it, trust me, where I fished this morning was as cool as it gets.  Just being there was a pleasure and a privilege.  While a fish would have been nice it would have made no difference in my experience.

Before heading back to the house took a drive even higher, almost to the tree line.  Saw a couple of muleys, one hauling ass elk butt, and scenery that just wouldn’t quit.  After turning around and heading back down I started to meet trucks and 4wheelers heading into the mountains.  Whether it is the coast, a lake, or the Rockies, when it is “on” go early, quit early, and then let them have it.  And always have the camera handy you never know.

She thought I was interesting.  So pretty.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

After seeing the picture of our house in the last post got this comment from Jim.

That is a nice looking house my friend. I assume that is yours👏

You bet.  It is the house of our dreams in the perfect place for us.  The fact that it butts up to the National Forest in the back yard, with a huge game trail, makes it even better.  There are so many muleys around, and in the winter it is crazy with turkeys, that we keep a pair of binocular on the windowsill as you never know what or when you might see something.  And I am proud of how the garage addition came out.  I wanted folks that see the house to think it was built by the same folks at the same time as the house and we did that.  It was a lot of work but literally put it to rest today.  (I was surprised how much I enjoyed the work, a little out of my experienc.)  Getting time for some fun.

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And speaking of the house the Boss wanted a nice mule deer skull for the house and we picked one up from a antler buyer.  He had just bought it in NM.  So she bought it and we took it to the Amish dude who does that kind of work and he cleaned it up.

A nice high symmetrical 8.

He will look cool on the wall.  (I have been instructed to not do anything involving decoration inside or out.  Probably for the best.) We also have a couple of whitetails and even a Cous deer.  Looks like those will all be fence decorations.

And for those of you on the front range Mose Mast did the work and we are really pleased, especially if you saw the condition before we took it there.  South of Alamosa, he has a shop so if you are needing some work like this hollar at him.  Nice guy.

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That will do it for today.  Tomorrow afternoon doing a little concrete work with Pete who was our guy on the garage.  Not looking  for a real job but a little work never hurt anybody, and nothing like a little fishing money.  So will hit the river at daylight to get the fishing fix in, looks like a good day.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

The view on my morning drive from 10,000 feet.  

Saturday I made the big drive over the mountains and down the roughest road we have tried yet.  Hoping to see some animals but they are few and far between right now.  The woods are crawling with 4wheelers, one of the big reasons folks come here in the summer, not to mention campers who truly want to get away from crowds.  But animals or not I never get tired of riding in the mountains, and here there are plenty of places to try.  So while it was not successful in the photography side of things it was still a great way to spend the morning.

This morning I was up and gone at daylight to do a little fishing.  Right off the bat I caught 2 on the fly rod with streamers, then could not buy a bite on the buggy whip, but I still have lots to learn and it will only get better as I do.

Second cast with a streamer. Ended up catching 2 on steamer and then they just shut down.

So went to the old standby, minnow baits and caught 3 smalls like the one below.  Pinching the barbs down really helps the fish, and sure makes it easier to get them out of the net.  But I have even quit doing that as it is easy to slide them to the bank and just flip them off and let them head on their way.  But when the sun was full up the bite stopped.

Then 3 on the minnow bait and then could not buy a bite.

Lous slinging it. 

When I was headed to the truck I spent some time speaking with Lou, who is over here with his family from the Durango areas.  A long-time confirmed fly fisherman, we chatted and I wanted to watch him fish to see what I could learn.  At least 3 guide boats came by, there is lots of traffic, and then other folks showed up to fish the same area.  Lou did catch one on streamer which is his favorite way to fly fish, the guide boats did not have a bite.  Lou said he stopped at one of the tackle stores that has multiple guides and the owner said it had been tough.  Apparently with this hot weather the hatches have gone crazy and he felt like it was simply the fact that their bellies are full.

So not sure what the issues are, have not been here long enough, but one thing was clear, get out early before the sun is up.  Not problem as I am still on Texas time so getting up early is no big deal with the one hour time change.  But when you are a beginner like I am no big deal, just keep on chunkin.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

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Well there is now 2 new cases of chronic wasting disease in dead white tails at breeding facilities in Texas.  I have been harping on this for a while and here it comes again.  When, not if, it spreads in the wild population it could/will be devastating.  But remember:  Follow the money.  Not sure why TPWD does not do an all-out ban on captive breeding, oh wait, sure I do.

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When I rag on TPWD it is not ever, nor intended to be directed at our wardens.  Without them it would be a bigger free for all than it already is on the water and woods.  They had a busy July 4th so here is the link to what happened.  Way to go guys and gals, you keep us safe and never forget that responsible hunters and fishermen appreciate everything you do.

News Release: July 12, 2023: Texas Game Wardens Conclude Busy July 4th Weekend of Statewide Enforcement – TPWD

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And speaking of deer as I made my breakfast looking out my back window down the main game trail came 5 mule deer bucks in velvet.  The wildlife is one of the big reasons we moved here and how we got lucky enough to have the house sitting on a major game trail I do not know.  But hey, sometimes it is better to be lucky than good.

When I left this morning to do some fishing it was Monday, trash day.  I learned my lesson a while ago, do not put it out until morning.  There are a few houses here that are rentals, and they took their garbage out last night.  Oops.  Smokey obviously knows when it is trash day and definitely got a belly full last night.  Just love really living in the great outdoors.

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I forgot to mention that besides the little switch issue on the boat it was also time for the annual checkup.  I have owned this boat for 13 years and have never neglected the annual service.  Bob told me that he has a few crab fishermen who have over 5000 hours on their engines, and they are still running.  The Opti now has 1168 hours and compression is still good and looks like it is good for another 100.  And here is an interesting bit of information on your hour meter.  My meter on the dash says it has over 1300 hours but with the computer-controlled engines the actual hours are on the computer.  Not sure why that is but whatever, take care of your engine and it will take care of you.

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Steve with a lake trout.

My brother-in-law has really got the fishing bug the last couple of years.  He just went on a big kayak trip to the Boundry Waters.  Apparently they paddle their rear end off and the fishing was so-so.  But remember folks it is in the doing and not always about the catching.  So congrats on your first lake trout.

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Hoping to turn in my building permits today and call the garage a wrap.  Still have plenty to do on the property until I get it like I want it.  But that is the fun, it is a labor of love.

So that will do it for today from the Rockies.  After a responsible thing or two today it will be up early and gone at daylight in the morning. Really looking forward to the Boss getting here in a couple of weeks, I almost (Almost sort of!) feel guilty loving life out here this much and can’t wait till she gets here. So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Back

After a little frustration in Texas things finally got straightened out and I took off.  The boat was acting up so the day I came back went to the lake and it was doing the same thing so to the shop it went.  Then it became a hot humid 100 for the rest of the time I was in Texas.  I got the boat back the day before I left so no boat the whole time.  Nothing more than a small switch that told the motor I was idling when running, at least it was not expensive.  So the boat is fine and I am here.  Oh well.

But how hot is it in Texas?  Once I hit west Texas it jumped to 103 and stayed that way all the way to my stop at a motel in the lovely town of Dumas.  Checked in, went to the room and got organized, then out to the truck to find some food.  Tuned it on and the temp gauge read 116 in the sun.  That is freakin hot.  Suffice to say it is absolutely beautiful here at the base of the Rockies with windows open and a nice breeze.

The wading is about to get right, and the small creeks should be perfect.

Because the yard was sorely in need of mowing, I decided to get up at daylight and make a quick run to the river.  The water level has come way down and it is going to be good.  I took a couple of pictures with the little camera, but the lens fogged up as it was in my pocket and it was a nice 50 degrees outside.  Suffice to say caught a couple of good ones and a couple of smalls on hand tied jigs and minnow baits.  But trying to be responsible I quit around 8:00 and headed to the house to take care of things.  On the way in I saw these sticking out and turned out it was a couple of mice muley bucks in full velvet, amazing how much they have grown in the month I was gone.

\

Looks like horns to me.

This guy has potential.  Nice mass and a couple of brow tines will add to the total.  And yes, I see you.

I love them outlined like this.  Maybe someday I will figure out how to make it a better shot when it is backlit like this.

It is exciting to be back, and I look forward to chasing wildlife and living the good life.  So I am organizing the pack that stays in the truck at all times with everything needed to hit the woods, catch fish and take photos.  Can’t wait to see a full velvet elk.  And already excited about Yellowstone and Teton at the first of October.  The elk should be in full rut and the wolves await.  Looking like one great fall in the west.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

I got this comment from my buddy Rusty who has been a loyal reader and now a friend.

Happy Birthday and welcome to the 70’s Club!
After both knees replaced, shoulder replacement and ruptured gall bladder removed, I feel like the bionic man at 72. You are exactly right, in all the occupations we have had and traveled the world, fishing has always been the core passion. I also have a wonderful wife who not only supported me fishing but encouraged me to fish( she’s not a bad fly fisherwoman herself). How blessed we are!! Happy Birthday mi amigo.
Rusty

PS: we can start a GoFund Me page if needed 😎

Thanks so much.  The key to life is keep moving one way or another.  And while he was at it he sent me this picture.

They got to be loving all that green grass.

I have heard that you can get a good idea how recruitment went with whitetails based on the number of twins you see.  Not sure if that is true but it sure is cool to see.  Have not seen an muley babies yet but they should start showing up in the neighborhood soon.  Thanks for the picture and hope to have some good fly fishing pics soon.

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Things are busy here in south Colorado.  Campers, 4wheelers, fishermen, bikers, hikers they are all here.  There is a logger competition here this weekend and multiple festivals in many of the surrounding communities.  I on the other hand will be sitting on my breezeway with a good book, maybe a little happy hour, and start to organize the garage.  Then after the weekend it will be some serious fly fishing.  And many thanks to all who wished me a happy birthday.  My favorite was from Lacy.

Happy birthday to you.
Keep chunkin.

Ok I will!  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Just click on the Video Magazine (page 50-51) below and see my PB snook.  What a trip.

The Angler Video Magazine

Just thumb through the pages until you find the Knockin Tail ad.  Click on play and see 2 things.

1.  The reason I am a confirmed Knockin Tail guy.

2.  Why I have towed a boat multiple times to the Everglades, along with plenty of other destinations.  And a big thanks to my buddy Michael and My Coast Outdoors for making a great bait and taking me along for the ride.  Both on the trip but also for letting me tag along as his company has grown.  (There is more stuff coming but I would have to kill you to tell you.  One tip I can give, there has been a surge in sales of the 5″.)

I have learned over the years that anyone can stay at home and catch those same old fish, only the brave (Or crazy.) man up and take a run at it.  Has it always worked out, of course not.  But the first time a tarpon smashes a topwater at boatside, a big muskie eats with a foot of line out, or a native cutthroat smokes a dry, it spurs me on.  From Lake of the Woods, the Everglades, Falcon, Fork, Bull Shoals, Francis Case, The Boundry Waters, the Snake, the Yellowstone, and the Deschutes Rivers and on and on. Not to mention the Great Barrier Reef, Belize, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and who knows where else, it has been a labor of love.  And I can never thank the Boss enough, she is the love of my life.  She has let me pursue my dream and I can never put in words what that has meant. Plus, any wife that tells you to just go fishing is the bomb.

At 70 years old we all spend time looking back on our life, it comes with the territory.  Attorney, paramedic, guide, I have lived a blessed life.  But one thing that has remained constant, and what defines me, is the fishing.  I am a fisherman, end of story.  So I happily celebrate this one, 70 and still kicking.  And in the next couple of days it is back to Colorado and some serious fly fishing.  The casting will continue until the day I die, and that is not coming anytime soon!

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While perusing Facebook I came across a post in favor of keeping the 17″, 3 fish limit.  It sure would be nice if folks would get behind keeping it in place at least for another year, or permanently.  So watch for the net survey report when TPWD releases it.  If memory serves me I think the net surveys are generally spring but who knows.  It will be telling.  At this point in my 50 year hard core fishing habit better fish beat numbers by a mile.  At times catching trout reminded me of catching crappie, plenty of them but often to many smalls.  But I have never claimed to be a good trout fisherman.

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I got this comment from Jim on the trout picture added to the last post.

Killer size Trout

Yes it was.  I will never forget that particular moment.  I boated 3 on 4 casts from 27 – 30 inches from a spot the size of a bucket.  Unfortunately, there was a problem, they were literally eating it and it was way down in their throat.  When combined with the 95 degrees that day I did not cast at them again.  It was definitely tough on them and I just could not cast back into the same place as much as I was dying to.  Sometimes we have to remember they are fish, and we have a responsibility to treat them with respect, in spite of the fact some might end up in the fry pan, and there was no way any of those were headed to the cooler.  SO, SIGN THIS PETITION!   The fishing will only get better.

Sponsor Maintain Speckled Trout Limit at 3 per Daily Bag, Sized between 17 to 23 Inches (change.org)

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

Well forgot about this one, it only comes up every 3 years, but here comes the $500 bill to keep this going.  I am going to have to seriously think about that one.  Great to post along not thinking about money, but like all things it costs money and it has gone up little by little over the years.  Doing this has never been about money until time to pay the bill.  Not sure how I feel about the continued cost of the blog and time to keep it up.  Stay tuned.

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I will be heading out in 2 days.  Waters are receding in the rivers and creeks, time to get out the fly rod and go to thrashing.  Plus there is still some work to be done on the garage and I am looking forward to getting that one out of the way.

I sure will not miss this hot weather.  It seemed the world was conspiring against me; I get back and it goes to a 100 and stays there to this day.  Plus, the whole time I do not have a boat, which only made it worse.  Add several other things that have kept me here way past the original plan so it will be great to be headed back to the mountains.  But one thing will definitely happen, I am going to fish like an animal when I get back.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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Off Topic Rant

This is what he thinks of the common man.  What a horse’s ass.

“I don’t really buy into the rich need to pay their fair share,” Pence told a crowd in comments that were recorded.

All I have to say is what a knucklehead.   We all might suspect that this is true of entitled rich folks living off the taxpayer (He just bought a $1.9 million house.) at least Pence is honest enough to say that “we” should pay our share, and his.  What is this country coming to?  I will keep saying it -TERM LIMITS.  And speaking of that not only in years but none of this start off running for dog catcher, then clerk, the state rep, and on and on building up the pension and forgetting where they came from.  Until voters take a stand it will not change.

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Have A Great 4th of July

I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend.  And like most of them, time for me to make the usual plea:  Be careful out there.  The roads will be crowded, the rivers and lakes jammed with folks, and with that comes the TPWD and the police.  So if you are headed out on the water take just a second to check out the boat and trailer.  Running lights, license plates and sticker current, tie downs in good shape, tires got some tread on them, air in the spare, all easy to check and will keep you from either a ticket or maybe worse, sitting beside the road in 100 degrees waiting for help.  And then the boat, batteries charged, plenty of oil, life jackets, fire extinguisher and anything else you can think of.  So much easier dealing with it at the house before you take off.

Then at the ramp get ready in the lot so when you hit the ramp you can just back up and drop the boat in and pull out of the way.  Try to be considerate on land and the water.  Assume the other guy is clueless, just because he can afford a fancy boat has no relationship to operator experience or level of intoxication.  (And if I have to remind you to not drink and operate a boat or drive you must live under a rock.) There was a significant increase on TPWD checks on the water last holiday, and I would expect no less this time.  In the end it comes down to “be nice”, be the bigger guy, when it is busy just because you are in the right does not mean some knucklehead won’t run over you in a heartbeat.  Stay safe this weekend,

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How Hot Is It?

Texas is past hot, way past.  It has been my good fortune to be here when it started, without a boat.  (Sarcasm.)  Meanwhile my buddy Chago was at his cabin in Colorado, and it snowed a little the other day.  And looking at the weather at the house it is running a nice 40 in the morning and mid 70’s during the day.  Over the last few years my tolerance for the heat has seriously decreased, I just don’t like it.  It goes back to the rule: when it is cold just put more clothes on, but when it is blazing like it is right now there is not much left to take off.  Being a fisherman, the weather has been a big part of my life.  Every place has its own downside, and this heat wave it right up there with bad anywhere.

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This is what they look like and I hope to get up close and personal with a few soon.

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Thanks All

Winfred, Darryl, Jim, SA Joe, Richard and others I so appreciate your kind comments.  It has been my pleasure to write and it humbles me when I get the kind of feedback that you have been kind enough to share.  It is embarrassing on a certain level and would be self-serving to share them so I will keep your comments to myself.  But all of you, never think I do not take your comments and shares to heart.  Trust me I would have given up a long time ago if not for you.

And speaking of that I appreciate your patience as I take some time out to actually be responsible.  Plus, not having my boat obviously keeps me off the water but it is looking like it might be done right after the 4th.   At least a part is on the way so there is hope.  My current plan is to return to Colorado sometime in the middle of July so I hope to do some serious fishing before I return.  The only thing good about the boat in the shop I have been very responsible.  Of course, the temperature has kept me from working outside all day, but getting stuff done that had been needing it is part of why I came back.  So, thanks for sticking with me, it will be back to “work” next week.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

Have a safe holiday and if you do the fireworks thing, please use caution. for yourself and the land.  It is getting drier by the day and a big fire is the last thing we need.  so be sure to check and see if your county has a burn ban.  I plan on keep on geting things done and a big slab of ribs is in my future.  And maybe the next time you hear from me it will be fishing report.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines