With all the great fishing opportunities in NE (and they’re virtually endless) it’s hard to believe I left for almost 2 weeks (around labor Day) for Yellowstone, amid all the news of forest fires and road closures. We concluded before leaving that all the trouble was west of our destination and that proved to be accurate. We saw no fires or smoke, except for one minor smoky area south of the park, in the Tetons. Actually, it worked out well because CNN had frightened off most of the city folk. We had a great time with zero crowds. The only traffic was a herd of bison that decided the grass was greener on the other side of the road. Scenery was terrific but difficult to explain. We have pictures for anyone interested but they really don’t do it justice. The roads are in great shape and rubbernecking while driving ,or pulling off the roads at pullouts, is a wonderful way to see lots of varying landscape, wildlife and vistas. Many roads run in the valleys parallel to the major river systems (Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin, Gardiner) thus affording terrific views of crystal-clear water, gorges, falls, and meadows.

Oh, yea! Back to fishing. Yellowstone is TROUT country. The predominate indigenous species is the fabled Cutthroat. Others are brookies, browns and rainbow. We had success in many ways. Stopped at likely looking runs and pools while driving and planned trips around specific areas that had been previously successful for our traveling companion, John V. Even booked two guided trips with local experts.

Each approach was interesting but I liked the adventure of starting from scratch, relying on "fish-sense" and good fortune. Anna caught the first "Cut" of the trip and followed it with 3 more. Wow! John and I caught more but not more per hour.