Because I enjoy long drives with a friend where we can talk and really get to know each other.

Because I love the anticipation before every trip - from the tying of flies, packing of tackle and talking to others to gather information.


Because I love the smells of the sea and forest, the sunrise on the water and the excitement of the first cast.

Because I love the huge splashy take of a wild trout, the subtle tug of a steelhead and the persistent ever-stronger pulls of a big chinook.

Especially because I love the feel of a solid hook set and that first run when the fish is totally out of control.

Because I love the feeling of victory as I slide the fish into the net or slip the hook from its lip.

Because I love a drink with a friend at the end of the day, when we can relive the highlights and laugh at the disasters.

Because I look forward to a slab of springer on the barbecue, the two mountain stream trout eat each year and the smoked steelhead I share with friends at Christmas

Because almost every trip now reminds me of parents and friends who once fished with me and who now are gone.