Monday, May 7, 2012

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.

16 comments:

  1. Beautiful photos Mike. I'm really trying to not get to excited about the rod until I know it's close. Very nice post.

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    1. thx Howard, I expect you'll find a fine legacy to build upon once received. Tight lines my friend! mike

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  2. Great photos and nice to-the-point write up. I look forward to following this rod across across the country this summer.

    JH

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    1. you and me both JH! I know some guys can't wait, but for my money, I'd have liked to relish the run-up to the experience. Jay @ thenaturalistsangle.com is up next. mjh

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  3. Very nice write up and shots. I'm with Howard, trying not to get too excited, but it's going to be tough when I keep reading these updates.

    I need to stay busy so I don't have time to read the updates.

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    1. stay busy living, your time will arrive before you know it. Plenty of adventures between now and then I'm sure~ mike

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  4. Glad to see the rod making progress and catching fish. Beautiful fish you have there.

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    1. Thx Jason, looking forward to following its adventures from here on out. I am jealous of its travels. mike

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  5. Awesome post Mike. Looks and sounds like you had fun. A very fitting day in the field for bamboo.

    Ben

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    1. By my count Ben, I make that 2 for 2 thus far. We done good my friend!

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  6. Great Post! Won"t be long and you will be clearing out the plastic rods at bargain prices :o). I have a 6'6" 2 wt that would be great fun on our little state treasures!

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  7. ...ah, that rod would be just the ticket alright. thx for stopping by Scott! mike

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  8. Miles upon miles of open wilderness and a chance to find a cutthroat or two. The rod is just a bonus (A very good bonus).

    Glad to see your part of the legacy. Well done!

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    1. Well that rod brought out the best NM has to offer- it will be fun to see the same for the rest of the lineup. Stay tuned, Jay's up next. mjh

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  9. Amazing post! Several of those pics good be in magazines or even the cover of magazines.

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    1. Thx Kevin , your check is in the mail. ;-]. If 90% of life is just showing up, NM and those RG cutts get the most the credit. Thanks for stoppin by! mike

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