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The Butcher, The Baker and a Candlestick Maker
by: Alan Peak 8/2/2012

First off, life has been a little busy for me, but in a good way.  I never thought I would happily take vacation time to work even more at my new job.  That, mixed with multiple ongoing projects, have kept me from posting more than I would like to.


Last week I was looking at the calendar and noticed a two day void.  No work, no wife, no kid, and no responsibility.  Clearly, something needed to be done.  I scoured the forum, lake pages, and other sources to push myself just past the edge of my comfort zone.

It is my truest belief that if you want to get better at anything, you need to put the limits.  In addition to a few great mentors, I credit much of my success to not being comfortable with the status quo.

My first goal was to catch a grayling.  "The Butcher" was tougher than I imagined.  I arrived after a long drive to torrential downpours.  Five hours of far sighted fish missing my fly and I finally got my grayling.  Fishing for these little guys all day long will definitely teach you about timing.

My second goal was to catch a drag screaming bow.  "The Baker" rocked my world and took me for a dance along the shore.  This sort of fish will certainly teach a great lesson in adrenaline control and Buddhist-like patience. 

The third species, "The Candlestick Maker" was more of an after though on the way to my car.  I had always wanted to catch a Colorado river smallie.  I rigged a streamer, and walked some of the river not expecting anything to happen.   This surprise affirmed to me that you can never give up. 

What is the point of all this madness?  Make a goal for yourself this weekend.  Catch a 20'' trout when you normally only catch stockers.  Find a greenback, grayling, golden or tiger trout.  If you only fish for trout, target some warm water species.

Tomorrow, I think I am going to catch a MA rainbow trout.  Dream big or fail.

Blog content © Alan Peak

Member comments

JKaboom, CO   8/2/2012 11:14:05 PM
Rught on Alan, I totally agree that trying new things and going new places teaches a lot :)

 

Tiny Stevens, CO   8/3/2012 1:05:10 AM
Excellant Blog Alan! Great to see that you accomplished your goals!

 

FISHRANGLER, CO   8/3/2012 7:36:25 AM
Thats pretty cool Alan. I agree, it sounds like you added tons of fun to your goals and thats a good thing.