This was my 8th season heading up to Togiak River Fishing Adventures to guide for part of the summer. The fishing there was phenomenal as always: a 36 inch rainbow, sight fishing countless silver salmon on flies, the grand slam of all 5 species of salmon, nymphing for dollies, etc. But that is not the reason I go to AK anymore, especially this year which was a little extra special…
It was special because I got to take my soon to be wife Julia there. Getting to show Julia the place that I have learned so much and has been such a big part of my life and fishing career is something I will never forget. She caught a ton of fish, met all my great friends, partied at the Sandy Clam, and got to shoot a gun for the first time ever!
But more importantly, it was special because Julia and I both got a complete break from the craziness of wedding planning and the home purchasing process. There are no cell phones, cars, shopping, minimal internet and phone access, and nothing to do except relax, fish, and spend quality time with each other. It’s a place where there is no need to carry a cell phone, wallet, or keys; and there is something really great about that.
It was special because I get to hang out with and work with an all star staff of guides, all of whom have worked multiple seasons. These guys have become great friends of mine over the years, and TRFA brings us back together year after year. Its not just the other guides, its the repeat clients (several of them I guided 10 years ago in my first season), my awesome managers Brad and Karla, and the great kitchen staff who helps fatten me up for football season every year.
It was special and heavy hearted because I learned of my grandfathers passing on my way home from the trip. It has been an extremely emotional emotional week, but also a celebration of a great man’s life. This is a man that has taught our family so much on how to live a great life. He is the man who ingrained the fishing gene into our family. I have many memories of catching my first walleye with him, going out on perch fishing trips in his boat, and catching my first salmon on a trip to B.C. with him. There is no way I would be anywhere near where I am at in my life without his influence. As the priest said “You Buddies have big shoes to fill” without him around for all the great things he did.
It was special because I came home to meet my beautiful bride Julia at the altar on Saturday…
Togiak River Fishing Adventures, Bristol Bay, AK 2012 – a trip I will never forget…
