Casting Memories: Fly Fishing

Johnsondale Bridge.

Fly fishing is an art.

Fishing has always been an all-time favorite hobby of mine. It has been a way to destress and unwind after a rough week. The thought of getting outside for the day to do nothing but hike and fish was anxiously waiting to arrive. Upon arriving at the bridge, you are greeted with the sound of rushing rapids echoing throughout the canyon and the crisp, cool air around you. Lastly, the feeling of a fish waiting just to bite your fly or hook (however you fish) is a feeling to look forward to having.

I was first introduced to fly fishing through the movie “A River Runs Through It” (1992), directed by Robert Bradford and starring Brad Pitt and Craig Sheffer. The story of fly-fishing brothers is both visually and emotionally compelling.” I thought the method of fly fishing was unique. It has its own casting method. A simple ten-and-two motion with the arm. Not to mention the flies (hooks) resemble certain insects around the river. That is important to understand, as certain seasons will require you to identify which fly will be more effective.

So, I got a simple fly rod from Walmart, where it comes with everything you need to get started. Once, I had everything I needed to get started. I would spend hours practicing, perfecting that ten-and-two motion cast. I got it down pretty well. Well worth it, speaking of the blisters I had. That hard work paid off. My dad and I went to Johnsondale Bridge one early morning. I was set on landing a rainbow trout with a fly rod. For more on fishing and exclusive sites, please read on. Exploring-Monache-Meadows

First Rainbow Trout on a Fly Rod

It was not until forty-five minutes upriver that we stumbled across a promising portion of the river, which we thought would be a perfect place to start fishing. So, we decided to set our rigs up and cast our lines. It was the perfect time and place, as the sun just started to hit the water. I started to get enough line out for a decent cast. It was my first ever cast on the river with a fly rod, and I landed a rainbow trout.

As a kid, I was ecstatic yet shocked; I didn’t expect it to be that quick. After that, I was landing them left and right. Sadly, my streak did come to an end as the sun got higher in the sky and the water got a bit murky. The fish took their feeding to the depths. I could not for the life of me find a fly that was for that condition.

The fly that was a big hit for the trout is the Dave’s Hopper #10. This little fly is very identical to a grasshopper. Yeah, that is the point. However, it is just wild to me how closely they got it to resemble one. The structure is very articulate, not to mention the legs and wings are pretty realistic. Anyways, that is my story on fly fishing at the Johnsondale bridge. If I were to suggest anything to anyone, it would be to study up on fly fishing. Whether it is the techniques, what flies would be best, (varies on season), how to fix errors and mistakes, etc.

Most importantly, bring water to stay hydrated while hiking on this trail.

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