Fishing!

Dad's busy summer was punctuated by a relaxing fishing trip on the Delta Clearwater River near Delta Junction Alaska.  This River has been the go to place for some of us to relax and enjoy some awesome fishing.  This particular river is spring fed, crystal clear and cacacold which makes the ideal habitat for the Arctic Grayling.  Each spring the Grayling migrate out of deep water down stream and travel upstream to spawn; each year getting a little bigger and traveling farther upstream.  We learned that a boat was the way to get to the larger or mature fish.

 Friday we woke to beautiful skies and fish feeding on a mid August hatch of insects.  We have boat motor issues and forced us to stay near camp and fish from the bank.  Ben brought a new fly rod along and put to practice casting techniques he'd learned.  Sam and Nathanael used lures on spincast rods that just didn't interest the fish.  They fished several hours....patiently casting, reeling, casting, reeling.   Saturday morning Ben woke us up with a  "Breakfast is ready". Though I couldn't see his face through my sleepy eyes, I could tell he was smiling.  He'd gotten up early and prepared us all breakfast burritos over a campfire.  What a blessing!  We gave the boat one more try before we loaded it back on the trailer and shabang it worked.  However the fish didn't seem to be interested in our late morning attempts to haul in a monster.  Again the boys fished hard and their faces show it.  Better luck next time huh?

If fly fishing is your gig, this is a wonderful experience.  Google this area and see for yourself.  no reservation required, just show up.  I'll pick you up at the airport. :)