I had heard rumors, that fish were in the creeks and tribs out east? So like any true Steelhead addict would, I packed a few things, like my rod, waders, vest and of course my camera, and I drove fast! Thinking it was going to be packed, and the fish spooky, I pulled into the parking lot to find only a handful of vehicles scattered here and there. Was this a sign? Maybe the rumor was just that?

Needing a fix reel bad, I decided the hell with it, and got out and dressed. I checked my gear and headed into the creek without a paddle, not caring one way or the other, I was determined to at least satiate my craving for chrome!

Entering the crystal clear and low water I was instantly reminded how desperately we need the rain. Scanning the gravel I soon spotted my relief, and then more! A nice large pod of fish were holding under logs and debris, and as I watched I saw several big aggressive fish move to the head of the pack, as I silently stripped off just enough line to reach the outcropping of snags.

Most anglers would bypass this stretch just because of the conditions, but experience and an uncomprehensible desire to dance with one of these fish, had me!

The first attempt was just shy of the pool, so I peeled a little more line and rolled it right where I wanted it! Smack into the downfall! I watched the fly drop and then stopped, instinct took over and as I lifted the rod tip waiting for the tree to claim first rights, I felt, then the set the hook into a very beautiful hen who broke the surface, shaking violently, and splashing back onto the surface with a rush of excitement, then she went airborne several more times!

“Now that’s what I’m talking about” came the words from someone standing by me! I guess in my tunnel vision state, I didn’t even notice the other 2 anglers besides me! “What are you using?” was the next question I heard as I landed and shot my quarry!

“Wiggle stone” I replied as I held her till she recovered and swam away! Standing up and looking around now that chrome again flowed into these veins, I noticed the guy’s moved down stream from my spot and to be perfectly honest, it was cool by me. Man that felt great! My ego was satisfied, my fix got fixed, and the day really was looking brighter! Checking my rig and measuring the distance I again placed my fly right into the slot and BAM! This time the steel exploded from the river and headed downstream in a mad rush to rid itself from my fly! 7 or more feet straight into the air with my reel screaming I headed after him! “Fish On!” I managed as the bright silver bullet pierced the water right in front of them guy’s! “Nice fish!” was one remark, and “What color fly is that?” from the other when all of a sudden this buck broke the surface a final time and my line at the same! “Holy shit! I said, “Did you see the size of that thing!” as I retrieved my line. The guy who asked before was now beside me as I opened my box and handed him a fly! “Careful” I said, “these things are deadly!” and I again proceeded back to my spot.

All in all, I hooked 12 fish, and landed 7 the best going about 29″ and about 91/2 lbs. The big boy who got away? Well we can all play that game, so suffice it to say, he was NICE! I left the creek after 3 hours, and made my journey home, full of satisfaction! My addiction taken care of for the time being, and as any fellow Steelhead addict knows, that craving will soon arise and rear it’s ugly head very soon….Till then