It Is The Simpler Things That Really Matter

True Story

I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to fish in some excellent habitats. I have fished the Gibbon, Yellowstone, Firehole, Gardner, Madison, Beaverhead, Snake, Twin Bridges, Green, Big Horn, Cumberland, Youghiogheny, Elk, Geneganslet, Provo, Deschutes, Sandy, Little Miami, Brookville Tailwater rivers and the Everglades. In a couple of weeks, I will be fishing the North Platte. Each experience has been exceptional and helped shape my love of fly fishing.

Recently, I was invited to join my buddy Dan to cast a line in the pond behind his house. I drove 15 minutes, and Dan was waiting with a mug of hot coffee. The day was beautiful, with a clear blue sky and a 65-degree temperature.

We started by adding tippet to Dan’s leader. I showed him how to tie a surgeon’s knot, which is my favorite to tie on tippet. Bass and bluegills were on our target list.

I brought my Orvis Helios 5 wt to try and have some fun. I don’t often get to use this rod. For perspective, I typically use my 6 wt for trout on bigger rivers. And when I fish Florida ponds, I favor my workhorse Reilly 5 wt rod.

We both selected topwater poppers. Dan’s had the classic rubber legs, while I selected one with a marabou tail. Dan tied his on with a cinch knot, and I opted for a Palomar. We discussed the differences between the two. Both are 95% plus knots. The older I get, the easier I find the Palomar to tie.

While we were getting ready, Dan’s neighbor and our mutual friend Terry joined us. Terry isn’t big on fishing, but he doesn’t let an opportunity to be with friends pass him by.

You might think having a neighbor stop by isn’t particularly remarkable. But Terry is a walking miracle. This past year, he experienced a major health challenge. He survived thanks to quick medical intervention, his courage and determination, the love of his family and friends, and prayers. Every interaction with Terry reminds me of God’s grace, and I am thankful to have more time with him.

After a few more sips of coffee Dan and I were slapping the water.

I introduced Dan to fly fishing a couple of years ago as a hobby he could take up in retirement. I was curious to see how his cast had improved. Dan was laying out perfect loops with some good distance. It is crazy to say I was proud of Dan for how far he has progressed, but I was.

Watching Dan made me think about my own journey and the people who helped me along the way, particularly my buddy Bob. It also made me realize I am transitioning from novice to coach. It’s a good feeling.

We caught a few bass and bluegill that morning. We took a few breaks to sit, drink coffee, and chat about retirement. We reflected on the importance of family, God and enjoying every moment of life. We talked about the stock market and the value of finanancial consultants. We didn’t solve any of the world’s problems, but we deepened our friendships.

Admittedly today wasn’t about fishing on a big river for trophy trout. It was about a simpler, but arguably more profound experience. It was about being with friends and reflecting on life with a cup of coffee. You could argue catching fish was secondary. It was the simpler things that took center stage.