I was in the local fly shop here in Big Sky, MT a few days ago replacing the flies I had left in the many overhanging branches along the river. The owner came over and introduced herself; we began discussing various fly patterns and weather conditions on the Gallatin River. One of her employees and a local guide came over and joined the conversation. When I explained that I also had a fishing blog things got interesting.
They both recommended that I go over to the nearby Madison River for opening day as it is quite a spectacle with all the local fisherman lining the banks to catch the first fish of the season.
Things became even more animated as he explained that each year a group of guys in their 70′s and 80′s bring their campers and stay for the whole season. These fine old gentlemen tie their own flies and jealously guard their personal patterns. They can often be observed in front of their campers tying these secret flies and when approached the fly is discreetly covered. They will be civil, but you are not encouraged to hang around lest you get a peek of their special pattern and put it on Google!
I was also told that there a several fine drinking establishments in the area and that the beer flows as freely as the fish stories. And of course we all know that fisherman never lie. So get out there and wet a line!
View from a Fine Drinking Establishment
