It is another early morning though the group is late arriving due to grizzly bear traffic through west Yellowstone. We venture out on the Madison between Raynolds Bridge and 3 Dollar Bridge. The rain starts to fall as we hike across the bridge, squeeze through a 6 inch opening of barbed wire and about a half mile along the river, the fields of sagebrush go as far as the eye can see. Dry fly fishing isn’t successful and we nymph. I catch 2 good sized trout and lose 2 among the bushy bank. As the skies clear, we rejoice in the partly cloudy cool weather, such a welcome respite from the heat of this week.
After lunch, we drive to the section of river between Quake Lake and Hebgen Lake. As we set up our rods, we share a picnic table and a guy complains how Idaho fishing is so lousy now with so many guides bringing people there. He says that “those biologists don’t know anything. The Henry Fork Foundation is ruining the river, telling them to run wastewater into it for nitrogen and potassium.” He claims he has been working in wastewater treatment for over 20 years and knows this business!!! I find it interesting to hear what a “local” person thinks. He further says their little town of Island City is getting too big, they are building a Marriott across from his house and he is going to have to move. (population of Island City- 300!)
As we fish, the wind picks up, the water runs fast and we are challenged by tangling lines and the rocky bottom of the river which catches our flies. I do catch a small whitefish but nothing else.
Nevertheless, I am proud of how far I have come in a few days, thinking back to my first attempt on this section of river with Ray earlier this week, my fear of wading, and how I was ready to give it all up! Today, I wade on gravel and rocks, cast comfortably, know how to set up my gear, select the appropriate flies, and feel confident with this sport. It is such a good feeling! I am also grateful for the casting skills I came with and am more aware of what improvements I need to make.
Too soon, the class comes to an end. We say our good byes; I have enjoyed the company and camaraderie of these women. I meet up with Ray as the clouds darken and our car is pelted with heavy rain and hail. As we drive, the skies clear to rainbows and gorgeous formations, farewell Montana.
