Hoppers 2011...what is going on?

Quick hopper talk. Weed and Pest says hoppers are 6 weeks behind on maturity. They are small right now. They range from 3/8" to 3/4" in most cases. We are seeing a lot of hoppers and expect to have productive hopper fishing as they mature a bit more. Last year we were already in full hopper swing by late July. We expect that to be pushed back a couple weeks.
With our high water many fish are oriented to the banks...err...hopper water. And they are looking up to a degree. We have had 2 groups attempt hopper fishing in the past week and both were more successful than we expected. Good news.
PMDs, Yellow Sallies, caddis and now tricos are dominating the hatch. We have been fishing banks and have been very successful with PMD nymphs and the old stand-by San Juan Worm in red and purple. A stripped streamer is also getting plenty of attention. Also look for risers in the AM on trico spinners. This is one of the most challenging and rewarding trout fly fishing opportunites in my opinion. We are also seeing some risers on PMD and sallies and the evening caddis hatch. There is much to look forward to in the hopper interim.

End of an Era

Had to post a goodbye to my trusty Land Cruiser FJ60. Bought this vehicle in 1996 and it has had many mods through the years, Many NPL and TRFS guests rode in the Land Cruiser as it was my daily driver and guide vehicle up until 2007. In 2007 I sent it away for a serious makeover. Paint and body, replaced the straight six gas engine with a 4 cylinder Cummins 4BTA diesel engine, sprung over suspension with cut and turn on the front axle, 35" BFG tires, ARB front winch bumper and Custom rear with swingout for the spare tire, rock sliders, ARB lockers front and rear etc. It has been sent out to the country where it can be used properly.
My son was pretty upset as it drove away because he came home from the hospital, after being born, in the Land Cruiser.
Goodbye. It was was a fun decade and a half.

Florida Tarpon

Was fortunate to slip away for a few days to fish tarpon with my buddy Capt. Greg Dini. I have to say I am little addicted to the stuff. It's hard to beat watching a 100lb tarpon inhale a fly in 2-4ft of clear Florida water. We hit it hard and put together three unbelievable days of fishing. The only downside was the lack of picture taking on my part. You'll have to excuse the lack of photos, I'll try and get more on the next round. Lastly, a big thank you to Katherine, Erik, Kari and all the boys for pitching in during my absence.
Trent