Colorado Dreaming

As this will probably be my final post before I begin work in a few weeks, I thought it might be appropriate to reflect on things. When I was applying to schools back in 2004 I did not consider much in regards to fly fishing. The Summer before my freshman year I had the opportunity to volunteer at a Young Life camp near Winter Park, Colorado. It was there where my interest and eventual obsession with fly fishing began. I close friend of mine personally built my first rod which I was able to use on various beaver ponds every evening after work. Catching little brook trout on any dry fly they can snatch up is a great way to begin learning the sport.

After leaving the camp I drove around the state eventually ending up camping for a few days in my car in Eleven Mile Canyon on the famous South Platte River. I had no clue what I was doing and was quickly humbled by the selective fish. I managed to catch a few but no matter, I was hooked for life.

Attending college in a place like Oklahoma was a great time in my life and one I would never take back. My buddies and I developed a common interest in fly fishing and it was over the last 5 years where we tried to squeeze fishing in our schedule. First it began as less of a priority and has developed in to a main focus. With few trout streams in immediate vicinity of our location we have been forced to travel significantly to find fish.


First, it was rivers systems in New Mexico and then up to Colorado. We have even managed to scrap together some money to take several saltwater trips to Belize. From there I then began exploring the Norfork, White, then the Little Red, where everything changed. It may seem a little far for some but the 5 1/2 hour drive to fish in Arkansas is something I always anticipate. With the best brown trout waters in the world 1 state away, I can not complain.

Now I find myself a week from the end of my college career and eagerly anticipating the new experiences and opportunities that await for me in Colorado. I know that I have much to learn in the big scheme of things but that is something that excites me. The wonderful thing about fly fishing is that one can never really stop learning. There are so many avenues to pursue from fly tying, various destinations and species world-wide, to rod building, photography, teaching, and writing. Fly fishing is truly a complete sport and I still don't know how far it will take me. I know I have been blessed to meet many special people and experience many special moments all to the credit of the sport.

I know deep down inside that for now a "regular" job will ultimately be what I choose to pursue but I think that will only help to further motivate me to take full advantage of my opportunity that awaits. Never having the chance to show others the sport is hold so dear is exciting. I know each day will come with its challenges but with a deep breath and glance around; trouble in paradise is something I can deal with. I don't know how many people follow the blog with any regularity but I really would like to meet up and fish/enjoy life this Summer. Also, for those of you who may seek the things that go "bump" in the night I will be putting in a lot of time on the water when the sun goes down. Don't hesitate to contact me at leej@ou.edu or leej2303@gmail.com.

This post may sound more like a journal but I have intended for it to possibly reach someone who has shared my common experiences with not being able to fish without making a trip out of it. Do not let vicinity stand in the way of your desire.