First Float of the Year

Driving down the highway to the put-in we were skeptical as to how the weather would hold up.  The sun was shining and it was relatively warm considering the time of year but a storm front was supposed to roll in at some point during the day so there was some doubt as to whether it would be a suffer fest.

Once we were on the water it turned out that the fishing was going to be very slow.  With heavy winds it was hard to keep the drift boat from being pushed all over the river like a pinball.  Lines were tangled and flies were lost but all in all it was good to just be out on the water with no one else in sight.  A few fish were caught and lost and more than a few jokes were thrown in for good measure.

About a mile from the take out Matt hooked what we thought was another log.  Turned out it was actually a nice sized cutthroat.  after a minute or so of fighting we got him in the boat for a great photo.

We were off the river and ready for a drink so we headed over to the Blacksmith Brewery to quench our thirst and call it a day.  As for being back in Montana after spending the winter down South I am happy to be here.

Fish on!