It has been a very long time since I last posted, and I don’t know what to think. Usually, I make it a point to post once a month if not twice or thrice during the peak season.

Recently, however, I haven’t been fly fishing. Heck, I have also barely had time to ice fish this year, having gone a grand total of three times throughout 2019.

Needless to say, my life as a graduate student at UNH has caught up to me.

Still, there is light at the end of the tunnel and I am very much looking forward to 2019. Here are some of my resolutions:
 

Learn How to Euro Nymph:

This has been on my radar for a number of years. However, I just haven’t gotten around to it. After lessons learned during my last trip to the Swift and advice from friends, I am willing to take the plunge.

In certain situations, I will force myself to leave my 5 wt. in my car and focus exclusively on tightlining. After doing my research, I found an affordable combo through UpCountry that would serve a novice “tightliner” like my self.
 

Fish New Waters:

Over the last few years, I have fished many new waters or unfamiliar stretches on “home” waters. This year will be no different.

With other fellow Blog members and others, I plan to explore the rivers of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, and Vermont like never before.

My time on the water will be limited this year compared to years past and I will likely fish my home waters less. I’m OK with that.

 

Explore the Backcountry:

Ever since my memorable trip into the Pemi Wilderness two summers ago, I have wanted to explore the back country of central and northern New Hampshire. Unfortunately, an injury last year derailed my plans to return. This year, barring any injuries, I hope to return.

In 2017, I only got a taste of what this vast wilderness has to offer, and I look forward to putting in the time and hopefully reaping the rewards. I also plan to spend more time exploring some wild trout waters in Pittsburg, New Hampshire before Trout Camp.

 

Fish with Friends:

In recent years, I’ve made it a point to fly fish with friends. Although I occasionally find some satisfaction with fishing alone, there is something special about involving friends. I’ve almost never had a bad day when I’m with friends.

Sometimes fishing becomes a secondary focus as many stories, laughs, and good food and drinks are had. Fishing with friends also allows me to escape my fishing comfort zone and try new tactics.

One of my favorite outings from last fall was a day spent sight fishing to massive bows and brookies on the bubbler arm with Geoff Klane.

 

This video just about sums up what it’s like fishing with friends.