Jeff and Spencer had decided to book a float trip with Richard Parks of Park’s Fly Shop.
They were going to float the Yellowstone, and Dick, Charlie, Nate and I were going to hit some smaller streams with the hopes of high numbers in the catch category.
With everybody having tired bodies, we thought an easier day would be in order. Jeff and Spencer could ride in style and we other would fish rivers with close access. They had a great day being guided by possibly the premier expert on fishing the Park and its surrounding area.
They floated the Yellowstone starting close to Gardner and took out just before getting to Yankee Jim Canyon. The boated at least 40 fish the largest being around 16″. Cutthroat, Cut bows, and Whitefish were caught off of dries. Yes, Whitefish off dries. The said it was a beautiful day on a beautiful river. And they had they luck of seeing an Osprey during the trip.
While those guys were out being carted around, we were going to Lava Creek to begin with and Tower Creek in the afternoon. Our day started out with everyone getting strikes on their first or second cast.
Dick was lucky enough to land the first fish on his first cast. The day never let up either. 4-5 strikes came out of every hole, with several being landed.
The fish were absolutely gorgeous with their spawning colors coming on. Every fish practically was glowing with greens, blues, reds, and oranges.
The fish were eager and forgiving. Many fish struck numerous times even allowing for less than perfect drifts.
When hooked they were willing to dance with all their might.
After fishing Lava for several hours, and landing too many fish to count, all being Brookies, we decided to hit the road to find a little shade to eat lunch in.
We found this place at the rustic Roosevelt’s Lodge. The two picnic tables in front of the gift shop were exactly what we were looking for.
We had a quick lunch and enjoyed the shade, and then off we went to head towards Tower Creek.
The drive to Tower took the guys through an unseen part of the park. We were fortunate enough to drive past the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and see the numerous unusual rock formations along the road. Once arriving at the Creek, and after a quick visit to the gift shop (I am not telling what was bought), we were back to fishing.
The fish in this river consist of Rainbows and Brookies, with Rainbows being the dominant species.
Tower Creek has a little bit more gradient than most are used to fishing but, many, many fish call it home. Catching started shortly after arriving and was fairly consistent throughout our time on this stretch.
Dries and nymphs were on the agenda with the caddis family being the big winners.
Around 5pm we headed back toward the house to put the feet up and enjoy some Ribeyes, roasted corn, and roasted potatoes.
After returning home Dick was awarding the much celebrated Big Fish Net after landing the smallest Trout this trip to date (aka Beer Fish).
When receiving his award he was wearing an “Older Than Dirt” T-shirt. All I can say is I hope I can get around like this man when I get to wear that shirt.
Every day is a pleasure with these guys and I truly appreciate all the knowledge they are sharing, especially Dick’s stories!
All in all this was a great day and it has us eagerly awaiting tomorrow when we head up to the scene of our recent 200 fish day. Brookies are in order in the morning and a chance for everything else in the afternoon. Let’s see who gets the Yellowstone Grand Slam!!