As we ease our raft in to the shore. I explain the flies and techniques we will employ to tease a steelhead to the fly. Before long, you are carefully wading down through the pool, casting, mending, stepping down stream. You seem to imagine your marabou streamer swimming along in the currents. Suddenly the line tightens out in mid current. The water explodes with a large silvery fish. You cannot believe this is really happening! For a moment, the world stands still.
Perhaps you manage to land your fish, perhaps not. Either way, you will never be quite the same. I know. Over the past 13 years I have guided literally hundreds of anglers into thousands of steelhead. The rush never goes away.
I believe in wild fish. I believe they should all be released alive. I enjoy being with people who can appreciate uncrowded streams, beautiful pools, and the challenge of the fly. For me, I would simply rather flyfish steelhead.