Ramblings

Originally posted @ Orvis

Here in Colorado, runoff is in full effect, and the rivers are running high. Temperatures in Denver are also running high, in the upper 90s. No better way to get away from both than to hike to 12,400 feet and fish some lakes!

Went to Rosemont Reservoir and caught a LOT of fish. All on the small side but when you catch over 50 with multiple species to the net, it was a great day using the 3wt.!

I always get a little nervous when choosing a new boot for my hiking adventures – once you’re out there, if you’re uncomfortable or unable to maneuver the terrain, the joy of the experience is dampened, since your shoes are the primary barrier between you and the elements. I’ve also bought some hiking boots in the past only to be disappointed after six months of use when the sole starts falling apart. So when I first picked up a pair of La Sportiva Core High GTX boots I thought there was no way a boot so light could withstand the wear and tear I planned on subjecting them to. Intrigued by their new breathable technology and the possibility of lightening my load, I decided to give these boots a try and keep my fingers crossed that they deliver what they promise.

I opted for a low-key trial run, and took the family car camping for the weekend at a lake a couple of hours from our home. Walking around the campsite and fishing around the lake wasn’t exactly tough on the Core High GTX boots, but I was intrigued by the fact that a lightweight shoe could provide such sure footing.

The following week I was off to hike the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness of Colorado for five days – this would be the true test of the Core High GTX. During the hike to our destination, I ended up covering over 30 miles with 45 lbs. strapped to my back, and then embarked upon another dozen or so miles of fly fishing around lakes and streams with roughly 10 lbs. packed into my daypack. My friends Shawn and Tom joined me for this excursion and we started the hike in at roughly 6,000 feet above sea level, ending the day above treeline at over 11,000 feet. The first handful of miles felt like a leisurely stroll compared to the challenge we faced once we got above treeline.

Our destination was a couple of lakes that sit right below the Continental Divide, far above the safety and cover of the trees. With no real trail into this area, there was a lot of off-trail navigation of boulders and rolling tundra. Once we arrived, and base camp was set up, we were off to explore the lakes and catch some amazing cutthroat trout. The Core High GTX handled all types of terrain effortlessly – we scrambled up and around cliffs, navigated the rocky shores of the lakes, and trudged through boulder fields between the lakes. To my surprise, I was sure-footed and comfortable, not to mention cool, the entire time. These boots far exceeded my expectations.

After spending a couple of days above treeline, we headed back down the valley and set up camp again, taking day trips to fish the stream and other lakes in the area. Over the five days we ambled around the wilderness, hiked and fished four lakes, three sections of the stream and multiple beaver ponds – catching hundreds of fish between the three of us. Even with the terrain and altitude challenges, the combined durability and comfort of the Core High GTX, convinced me that I would happily be able wear these boots for six months and beyond!

Head over to the La Sportiva site for the specs: Core High GTX, but for me the real world use was much more useful and informative and I can honestly say I haven’t had a more comfortable and versatile experience in a hiking boot.

Took a Friday off to head up the Pikes Peak Highway and take the float tubes out on North Catamount Reservoir. It was a good day of catching rainbows and lake trout.

Posted @ Orvis

The first few months of 2016 was amazing! Looking forward to the rest of the year!

Another perfect day on the water. This was the first time using the new Hydros reel and it paired perfectly with my 6 wt. Recon.

Originally posted @ Orvis

As some were getting ready for parades and green beer, I skipped out on work for some birthday browns. With my 6-weight Recon—and a few red Higa’s S.O.S . nymph and Purple Haze emerger—I headed to my creek on a cold and snow-flurried St. Patrick’s Day morning. I think the fish knew it was my birthday because every spot produced trout. Turning 42 never felt so good!

Two fellow Redditors drove down from Fort Collins for a day of fishing on the Platte.

After a week of 60 degree weather, the big browns were out and about.

Originally posted @ Orvis

Last year, I set a goal to catch a fish every month, and after I completed that goal, I thought I would keep it going. It’s been in the low 60’s for most of the week here in Denver, perfect for getting my feet wet and keeping the streak alive at 14 months. My friend Tom was able to get a couple to the net as well, including his first trout of the year. I’m looking forward to many more months of getting out on the water!