never the same

When I considered the legacy building around the Fall River combination as it travels the country this summer, I knew immediately I wanted to contribute some notion of what I love about my part of the Rocky Mountain West to those that come after. 

In my mind's eye, there are two treasures, each beyond price, intertwined so as to be inseparable.  

Hopefully never one without the other-  New Mexico's high country and Rio Grande Cutthroat trout.

Biologists tell us New Mexico's native fish now haunt but a scant five percent of their native range.  For we disciples of the long rod, that means most populations demand a hefty price in boot leather to reach.

trackless wilderness

But oh! they prove treasures well worth the coin paid.

liquid snow

Saturday found me rattling up a familiar backcountry two-track, miles upon miles from nowhere, on the threshold of a veritable trackless wilderness.

Cloud of dust settling around the trailhead, booting up, cinching pack straps tight, it's a familiar ritual.  This day, though, is different.

Fall River Fly Rod different.

match made in heaven?

Now officially introduced, I am absolutely certain some things will never be the same.