This summer we took our ’85 VW Vanagon on a bit of a journey through the Rocky Mountain West. Between Montana, Idaho, and Colorado, we added a few thousand miles to the speedometer, replaced a few crucial parts, tilted *slightly* off axis, and even hosted a rodent companion for a night (sorry Andrew). In its most honest definition, we truly embraced the trout bum lifestyle. From fast-paced high mountain streams in Colorado, to the majestic Madison River in Montana, we got a taste of some of the finest trout fishing in the west. While the fishing was, well, incredible, it’s the people and communities whom we shared these experiences that made it not only possible, but unforgettable.
PARADISE VALLEY, MONTANA
Our next stop in the van was beautiful Paradise Valley in Montana, but not before picking up friend and photographer Andrew Miller. The first night was spent high in the mountains above the Yellowstone Valley, with the stars putting on quite the show all night. It's worth noting that our deep slumber was abruptly interrupted when a feisty mouse found its way into the van and decided Andrew's hand tasted like dinner. Andrew, maybe you shouldn't have given him those chips by the fire... Either way, we awoke to a small stream full of trout cascading its way downstream of camp, and we couldn't help ourselves; we had to check it out.
Photo: Andrew Miller
Upon arrival at the creek, we were greeted by a few bold Green Drakes. An infamous hatch throughout the U.S. known for bringing big fish out of their hiding spots, this surely got the juices flowing.
Photo: Andrew Miller
A storm lurked in the background with thunder echoing off the steep slopes; a dramatic setting for a stellar evening of fishing.
Photo: Andrew Miller
Sometimes the photographer gets to fish too...
Stay tuned for the next installment of our Trout Season Recap.