|
I just returned from the Upper Columbia,
AKA The Jurassic, and I have to say this is THE PLACE I have been
looking for since I moved to Washington nine years ago (in search
of great fishing). The fish are big native rainbow and huge cutthroat
trout that average 20 inches plus, with several going over five
pounds. My first fish came on my second cast and after seven or
more jumps and five minutes later I landed a five pound giant, the
first of many. This is no BS! I had several that took me right into
backing with my disc drag reel set on the verge of breaking my 2X
tippet. Three days of gourmet food, great fishing, and spectacular
scenery, offered by one of the truly great guides out there today.
Thank you Jack for a great trip. I'll be back!
Joe Coakley
________________________________________________________
Jack,
Wanted to say a big thanks for the
great experience on the Upper Columbi. It exceeded by expectations
all the way around…fish, food and hospitality. You’re
the best!. Here is Marc Demott’s contact email for the fish
sculptures. Troutcarvings@comcast.net. His pictures do not do justice
to the finished product. See you on the river.
Arne
_______________________________________________________
Jack
Thanks again for another wonderful
trip. Arne and Dick both raved about the experience. As you probably
picked up, Arne is starting late but really has developed a passion
for the sport. I expect you will see him on plenty of occasions
in future. On the drive back, Dick keep repeating what an amazing
experience it was and how much he had learned from you and Al. Both
are looking forward to framing a photo of one of those big rainbows.
I told them you would be sending me a DVD of all of the photos and
I’ll forward copies to them.
My only regret was not getting to fish
with you but I enjoyed spending time with Al. That was the first
time I’ve ever been the sole fisherman in a boat. I’m
still recuperating. Give my regards to Al. See you in the fall.
I’ll ask Mel to call and set up a date for the Klickitat.
Bob Chadwell
_____________________________________________________
Colleagues,
Thank you for the time off yesterday
to fly fish the Yakima with my son
Evan.
We discovered our guide, Keith, has
six children, all under the age of
12. This may explain patience this man displayed de-tangling our
lines.
We both gave Keith lots of practice in this occupation.
We tangled line because this was our
first time fishing from a drift
boat - team fly fishing. And we were nymph fishing (Sam's bug with
bead
head pheasant tail CDC nymph as a dropper, split shot lead to hold
her
down, and a strike indicator (a set-up similar to bait chucking).
This
set up does not cast like the traditional dry fly upstream approach
I
prefer, but, alas, the fabled green drake hatch appears to have
been
delayed on account of the high snow pack.
A good time was had by all.
Again, Thank you all,
James
_______________________________________________________
Jack,
We had a wonderful time.
Thanks for the pictures, and for the
precious memories Matt and I now have
of the joy and privilege we had in sharing time together in a glorious
place
pursuing trout with a guide we trusted and a gentleman we admire.
Gene Studer
_______________________________________________________
Jason,
we had a great time and keith was terrific. I would recommend to
your future clients who bring their spouses (and who may not want
to fish the entire time) staying at the Orchard Inn in Yakima. The
inn keepers are fishermen and they allowed me to hang my weaders
and boots to dry. I can send you their info if you are interested.
Take care and best wishes,
David
______________________________________________________
Jack,
Thanks again for a wonderful day. Ed
had a grand time so i evened the balance sheet between us. I suggest
you call that drift the Voyage through Sherwood Forest. See you
in Montana on May 14.
Bob Chadwell
______________________________________________________
Al,
As this is the only address on your card I have taken the liberty
of sending the pics here.
Thanks again for the memories!
Looking forward to getting together again Thursday!
Kip Keener
1140 Alki Ave. S.W., #204
Seattle, WA 98116
Tel 206-932-0203
Cell 206-715-7152
Fax 206-932-0203
_____________________________
Jack: My Dad and I recently spent 2
½ days fishing with Joe W. on the Yakima. We had a great
time and once again, caught some terrific rainbow trout. Joe is
a true gentleman and an awesome guide. I wonder, however, just how
many days we have to log with you guys before we get invited to
that damn secret desert creek? See you next year.
James
James M. Ganion, Esq.
ULICH & TERRY LLP
4041 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 500
Newport Beach, California 92660
TEL (949) 250-9797
FAX (949) 250-9777
jganion@ut-law.com
http://www.ut-law.com
_____________________________
Jack,
Thanks again for a great and memorable day in the desert. That was
really a spectacular place, and as you would say "a s--t pile
of fish"! I've attached some pretty good pictures here. They
came out pretty good I think. Sorry for the large file size, even
in zipped format. Let me know if you were able to open them or not.
Also please send any you have as well.
Kettle was beautiful, though we had only fair fishing (and no pictures).
We fished the section off the gravel section of West Kettle Road
way up near the border. We did find those bouldered section you
suggested, and Aaron got a 16" bow in one of those spots. We
both got a bunch of 8-12" fish too. No big browns in sight.
I tried spotting fish and only saw about a 14" bow, that's
it. Thy must have been belly to the bottom. We tried nymphs, big
dries, dredging streamers. Most action was on big atractor dries
like chernobyls, stimulators, and a big ugly royal wulff.
Thanks again, and see you sometime soon.
- Tom
_____________________________
Good morning, Jack. I'm an angler with
average fishing skills who's spent more than his fair share of time
drifting down various western United States rivers with capable
fishing guides, but I've never fished with a guide as capable and
pleasant as Keith Wersland. Not only is he a wonderful guide, but
he is also damn funny. He kept me in stitches all day. He'd be missing
his life's calling if he didn't do amateur standup comedy. The guy
is a hoot.
We had a great fishing day as well.
The wind howled, but we were still able to throw some dries and
picked up a couple nice fish. I think we netted 20 or so fish in
8 hours * a good day by anyone's standards. I'll recommend your
guide service and Keith to all my friends who fish in the northwest.
(I think that'll be all of two anglers.)
Keith took a couple of digital pictures
of me with fish. How can I get a hold of those digital picture files?
Thank you for your help. You have a
great shop and Wersland's a top notch guide. I'll be back.
Best,
Ryan Anderson
ps A good Christmas gift for Keith
would be a large box of matches:-) (It's an inside joke. Ask him
about it the next time you're with him.)
_____________________________
Jack,
I am just writing to tell you about
the great, fantastic, wonderful, trip I had yesterday with Keith
Wersland. We floated about 20 miles of the river from near Thorp
down to Ringer. My friend Lance and I were continually impressed
with the efforts of Keith. Not only is he extremely funny and entertaining,
but his knowledge of the river is really unbelievable. On several
occassions he told one of us what was about to happen, and it happened..."about
50yds down river this is what you will see, this is what you need
to do, and there will be a fish right there." Every single
time there was a fish right where he said one would be. He was patient
with our snags and tangles as the temperature rose into the 90s
and he continued to row us around effortlessly and PUT US ON FISH!
Though I have never before been on a guided trip, I cannot imagine
finding a better guide than Keith. The very next time I have the
time and money to afford a trip, I will be calling Keith. He is
a great asset to your staff and a wonderful guide.
Thank you for the great experience.
Pieter
Pieter Salverda
Windermere Real Estate
(206)218-9815
_____________________________
Jack, Your presentation at Tri-Cities
Fly Casters, Tuesday night was wonderful.
Your enthusiasm for the sport is contagious.
seldom do we have such an interesting program
THANKS for coming downstream to see us.
Jack Moffett
2619 Thoroughbred Way
Richland, WA 99352-8802
_____________________________
Hi Jack,
My son and I fished with Al on 13 April 2006. By the way, we had
a great time and as you well know, Al is one hell of a guide.
Thanks,
Art
_____________________________
Just a quick note to tell you that
I had one of the greatest times of my life last Friday May 5th with
"mean Al" the self proclaimed meanest guide on the Yakima.
Al put me on over 100 fish, probably only hooked 40 of them and
brought about 20 to the net. UNREAL! The guy really knows his stuff
and was a great instructor as well. I have my own drift boat but
was reluctant to go down the river (KOA TO Ringers) having never
been down the Yakima. Al pointed out all the places to be careful
and also showed us some great fishing spots. We were very successful
Sat. and Sun.
because of all his help. In addition, the young man you have working
in your shop is a gem. (Jerrod?) He was very helpful in choosing
flies and even showed me a couple of new knots to tie. Great kid.
Once again great experience.
Les Meredith Lk. Stevens, Wa.
_____________________________
Hey Jack,
Just wanted to tell you that I had one of the best times ever on
a guide trip with you on the UC. As a young guide myself, it was
definately cool to be guided by you. I learned a few new techniques,
caught on to some of your tricks and secrets, and also I was able
to relax and just fish, which doesnt happen unless Im fishing with
another guide. So in all, I had a damn god time. Also, I was checking
out your site yesterday and I noticed that you put up alot of photos
of my dad and myself. I instantly called and told him, needless
to say, he was stoked. So many big fish were landed that it was
maybe getting a little ridiculous. I fished the Upper Madison last
sunday and slammed em on the red cooper-wired nymph that you gave
me. I tried swingin' some spots that looked to have potential, but
I was using a dry line. Anyways, If you even need a report on the
Madison or yellowstone, give me a call, I should be fishing a bunch!
Talk to you later,
Chris Knott
___________________________
3/17/06
Hello,
Just wanted to say thank you for the booking; even with the snow
and rain we had a great trip on the Yakima. Our guide Al was one
of the best we have ever had; he was very helpful, patient and extremely
knowledgeable about everything. We also liked the fact he tied his
own flies. His humor and kindness made the weather easy to handle.
When we come out to fish the Yakima again we would love for him
to be our guide.
Thanks Again,
Rick & Jami Henegan
__________________________
I just wanted
to drop a line and let you know how great our trip was with Al last
Saturday. I was on a trip with Malyn Malquist (who booked the trip),
Patrick and myself. Al was our guide. We started a bit slow as predicted
by Al and exactly at 1pm things started heating up and the rainbows
were out. I think we boated 35 to 40 fish and for a winter or very
early spring trip that was awesome. Thanks again for a great memory.
Al didn't waste any time before insulting
my knot choices and recommended that I use three different knots,
however I can't seem to remember there specific applications. The
knots in question are:
Turle Knot
Palomar Knot
I have found examples of how to tie
these knots online but they don't seem to match what he was trying
to teach us. Any advice (or diagrams!) would be much appreciated.
Thank you,
Michael Webb
LightStream Communications LLC
mwebb67@comcast.net
509 290 2648
____________________________
2/26/06
Hey Jack, Thanks for hooking us up
with Jason and Dave yesterday for our trip, we did Big Horn to Red’s
and had a solid day, I would say over 20 fish between the 4 of us.
I was in the boat with Jason and I have to say he was awesome, totally
put us on the fish and was really laid back and patient with both
of us. Good dude to keep around if you want my opinion.
So thanks again, if you get the photos
off of the camera he had I would like to see them, or I can grab
them once you post them to your site.
Later,
Mark
_____________________________
2/23/06
Jack,
Just wanted the say thank you for the great trip yesterday. Lee
and I were thoroughly fished out as we realized on the way back
to Benton City. We're both moving kind of slow today. We definitely
want to plan another trip. I too agree with you, and would like
to get in some serious dry fly fishing. Could you take a moment
to list some of the times you would suggest harassing trout, white
fish, and sticks?
We talked about inflatable drift boats
and you verbally listed off some manufactures and couple of them
you sell. Would also, take another moment to list a few of boats
you would recommend?
Anyway thanks again and tight lines.
Jerry Smith
Sr. QA Engineer
Ph 509-547-7724
Fx 509-547-7371
Email jerry.smith@parsons.com
____________________________
12/26/05
Jack,
Fun day of fishing last week! Hope
that you enjoyed Christmas!
I would like to schedule both Thursday
1-5-06 and Thursday 1-12-06 with you for fishing. Craig will be
with me for the first trip.
Peter Maunsell
_____________________________
Hi Jack,
Wanted to thank you for an exceptionally fun day fishing. The fishing
was good, the instruction was even better. I had a blast, and learned
a ton!
I noticed when I got home that I left my wading boots in your shop
(Simms, size 10). Is it OK if I pick those up next time I come down,
which hopefully will be soon.
I also had an idea to run by you that might help make winter fishing
more comfortable. Seems like mostly hands and feet get cold. The
feet I can help with ski socks, but the problem with the hands is
unhooking fish. I don't know how you stand it, but getting your
hands all wet when it is 34 degrees out is a problem. However, it
is also really hard unhooking them if you can't hold them, (unless
I could master your technique of having the fish spit out the hook
as soon as it is netted). So I think a good solution would be those
neophrene gloves I see at Fred Meyer now and again for steelhead
fishermen. Seems like with those you could hold the fish, but not
freeze your hands. Have you ever tried those things? Do they work?
I've got a call into your divorce lawyer to get his OK on the corporation,
as soon as I hear back, I will draft the documents.
Greg
THE LAWLESS PARTNERSHIP
Gregory J. Lawless
6018 Seaview Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107
(206) 782-9535
_____________________________
Jack,
Hello, Keith took a couple of pictures
of some nice rainbows that I caught on Saturday (Aug 20th) that
I would really like to have a copy. Would you mind emailing me a
copy? I really enjoyed the trip and the guide. Keith is a good guy
and a great guide. Please email me more information on the Jurassic
River trip. A friend and I are interested in planning a trip next
year.
Thanks,
Dusty Deen
_____________________________
November 26, 2005
Jack,
Over the past year my outlook on fishing has changed immensely.
Starting with last years winter clinic, continuing with a float
trip with my Dad, with Al as our guide, and supplemented by the
information on the website and the help I receive when I stop by
the shop, I have come to really enjoy river fishing.
Yesterday is just one example. The advice you gave me was rock solid.
I fished with the nymph combo you suggested. The result was that
I caught two large rainbows in the first area and then moved up
about a mile and a half and caught three more large rainbows and
two whitefish.
I have always enjoyed fishing, but have never been much good with
the catching. I just wanted to send a brief message thanking you
and your staff for all the success I have had this past year. In
one year I have caught more fish than I have caught in all the years
prior, and I am not a young man. I will certainly be recommending
you and your staff to all of my friends.
Thanks for all the great guidance.
Lee Funkhouser
_____________________________
Nov 12,
2005
Jack
- This is a response to a letter received today as a follow-up
on a trip that my son and I took a few weeks ago with Al.
I had been planning to contact you earlier, so I'm glad to have
received the letter from your staff, which has prompted me to
respond now.
Some
background - I've been an avid fisherman for my entire life
(56 yrs). My fly-fishing experiences have only spanned the
past decade, however, after I became bored with catching salmon
and steelhead with gear. In fact, I was a small boat salmon
guide out of Port Angeles in my earlier years. At this point,
I have evolved into purely a fly fisherman, with little interest
in the fisheries that I used to participate in. Several
years ago my son and I purchased a drift boat strictly for use
on the Yakima River. My business here in Seattle keeps me
so busy, however, that we haven't been able to spend enough time
on the river to learn the techniques and patterns to be successful
on a consistent basis. Furthermore, I don't anticipate having
the time in the near future to "pay the dues" necessary
to acquire the knowledge. Having been a fishing guide myself,
I recognize that the client's money is very well spent.
Not because fish will be hooked and landed, but because the knowledge
gained will save years of frustration.
When
I called to book our trip, I specifically asked to be guided by
your best "teacher". Our guide, Al, far exceeded
our expectations. You are extremely fortunate to have a
guide of Al's character and knowledge serving your clients.
As strange as it sounds, I could hardly absorb all of the information
he provided regarding patterns, techniques, casting methods, river
history, seasons, etc. Weeks later, I still have recollections
of his tips that I had temporarily forgotten pop into my head.
Oh, by
the way, I've fished the Yakima several times since our trip with
Al and have been extremely successful, both in numbers and the
size of fish ( at least one fish 17"+ each trip).
Thanks,
and give Al our best regards.
Bob &
Brandon Winters
_____________________________
Just wanted
you to know I was impressed with your open house. You are a master
teacher out there in the river, I see I could learn a lot from you!
Barb and
I will look forward to meeting with you later this year to discuss
the Greg Stark Foundation.
Thanks,
Mike Stark
___________________________________
Oct 30, 2005
Jack,
Thanks for the awesome fishing on the Klickitat Tuesday! I
look forward to future trips – Joyce will love the experience.
Please forward the pics you took when you get a chance.
See you soon.
Mike
___________________________________
Oct 15, 2005
Jack,
What a great day
on the Yak. Al was fantastic. Hope to see you soon.
Dan Nehls
"Trust Your
Guide"
___________________________________
Sept 25, 2005
Jack: I wanted
to say thank you to you and your guides for providing a spectacular
fly fishing experience last weekend. My father and I only fish
together once a year, and it’s typically in Montana. Never thought
much of the Yakima… until now. Unbelievable all the way around.
On the last day, with the takeout in view, and as I was hauling
in my fourth cut from the same bucket (all four were in the 19-20
(and 20+!!!!!!!) inch range) in the span of just 25 minutes, we
all knew that what had just happened was truly extraordinary.
The only way to describe it for me was “Montana has nothing
on the Yakima.”
Joe was really
fun to fish with, and to watch fish. I gave him my rod twice in
order to get into areas that I could not- both times he cast the
line only once, and nailed a photo worthy trout each time. I hope
he sticks around after college, as he is a real asset to your
shop. Thanks again for providing such a wonderful experience.
We hope to back next September.
James M. Ganion
James M. Ganion, Esq.
ULICH & TERRY LLP
2201 Dupont Drive, Suite 210
Irvine, California 92612
TEL (949) 250-9797
FAX (949) 250-9777
jganion@ut-law.com
http://www.ut-law.com
___________________________________
Sept 25, 2005
Dear Jack at The
Evening Hatch
My son James and
I just completed two days on the Yakima last Saturday and Sunday.
Our guide on Sat. was John and on Sun. it was Joe. We were
fortunate to fish the lower portion on Sat. and the head waters
on Sun. It was one of the most enjoyable two days of my 65
years thanks to your guides and Jamie who did the cooking while
managing the tent camp. I just wanted to send you a note of
thanks and let you know I would highly recommend your business to
anyone who asked.
Sincerely,
Gary Ganion
___________________________________
Due to
a computer gliche we lost a large portion of our testimonials from
March 2005 to Sept 2005.....sorry for the void.
___________________________________
March 13, 2005
Hi Jack
Here are a couple of pictures from our fishing trip, our thanks
to Greg for making it a great trip.
Regards
From an Old Fisherman
Len Garrett
_________________________________________________________________
Feb 20, 2005
Hi, Jack:
Dan Wilson and I had
a great float with Al last Friday. It was Dan's first float trip
and first time nymphing. Al put him on to some great fish including
a 17" hog. Thanks for setting us up with "The Second Meanest
Guide on the Yakima." Al also introduced us to some very cool
strike indicators that clip on and clip off. He said they were available
at your shop. Can I order some from you?
We're looking forward
to fishing with TEH more times this year.
Thanks again,
Dick Simmons, Edmonds
_________________________________________________________________
Jan 17, 2004
Jack, thanks for a
great day on the river, glad we didn't let a little ice stop us.
Hope to fish with you again soon.
Jeff Christenat
Dec. 28, 2004
Hello Jack,
WOW!!! I just had to
write and thank you for one of the best days of fly fishing ever.
I have to admit, I had my doubts about fishing in the winter - but
I am hooked forever now. Like you recomended, we wore several layers
of clothes - good long underwear, a warm hat and fingerless gloves.
We wore our waders, but fished from the boat the whole time, so
the waders were just extra insulation and we were never cold - even
though our rod guides were icing up.
The fishing was way
better than many summer trips - we had doubles on maybe 10 times
and there was a moment I had to take a break because my arm was
getting tired playing all those fish. Often times - every cast was
a fish. These were not little fish either - most were over 16 inches
and many were "hot" - giving good runs and jumps.
We had a great time
with you as our guide - you sure know how to treat your guests right.
All-in-all it was an incredible day.
If anyone wants a recomendation
or a first hand account - go ahead and give them my email address
and I will be glad to spread the word about winter fishing... If
you haven't experienced it - it is hard to believe!!!
Mike and Sandy
November 18,
2004
Jack, Thanks for
the outstanding class and instruction last Saturday.
I had a great time and I really appreciate the time and attention
you gave. I can't wait to get back in the water and try the
techniques you taught me. Keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
James Hyde
5602 NW Rydan
Court Bremerton, Wa 98312
_________________________________________________________________
Nov
17, 2004
Jack,
WHAT
A DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DRIFT AND STRIP!!!!!!! ! COULDN'T KEEP
THOSE BOWS OFF MY LINE. WHAT A THRILL TO WATCH CHUCK PULL IN THAT
8LB STEELIE!!!! THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES WHICH WILL LAST A LIFE TIME.
THE BANKSTER
______________________________________________________________
Nov
16, 2004
Jack
- First, "thank you" for "nnooiiccee" time on
the water Friday. It was a good experience fishing new water.
I'm definitely glad I made the trip.
Second,
I was deleting some unneeded pictures off the digital camera on
Saturday, and like a big idiot I accidentally deleted our pictures
from the day before so unfortunately I won't be sending you pictures
from our trip. The only proof of caught fish will hopefully
come from you.
I'm definitely
interested in making another trip next September so let me know
what days you have available. Also, please send any information
you may have about OP fishing. As I mentioned, I'm also
interested in a multi-day trip on the OP in 2005.
Thanks
again!
- Glenn
Glenn Moriyama
Consumer Credit Group
Strategic Risk Management
925-603-2151 [Office]
925-381-0994 [Cell]
MAC A0303-034
glenn.moriyama@WellsFargo.com
_______________________________________________________________
November
6, 2004
Hi Jack-
Can you
sign me up for the winter skills clinic on November 13? If you
need a CC#, let me know. I am still looking into the Ascension
Baytrip in January as a possibility but I need to see how my schedule
plays out pre-holiday. Thanks again for an AMAZING day on the
Methow for the Steelies. Bryan and I haven't stopped talking about
it for weeks.
Let me know
about the winter skills clinic when you can.
Thanks again,
Tom Craig.
206-374-0500
Work 206-321-2892 Cell
_______________________________________________________________
Oct. 28th,
2004
Just wanted
to say what a great time we had fishing with AL in August and
Sept. It was one of the best trips we ever had in13 years. We
look forward to next year,
ED and JUDY
NELSON.
_______________________________________________________________
Oct
26th, 2004
Hope you enjoyed
the meal. We had a wonderful trip. Got back around 2 a.m. No sleep
and dead tired today. People are skeptical of my stories. Send photos.
Bets have been made. Hope the weather warmed up for you after we
left.
Bob Chadwell
________________________________________________________________
Oct 15, 2004
Jack,
Finally got some of the pictures back and scanned in. This
is the large one that Jonathan caught. The picture of me is
from the Yakima River in September.
Jack, thanks for an absolutely superb trip. Jonathan raved
about the fishing and the trip all the way home. His first
steelhead on a fly, hell 3 of them, in a beautiful setting on a
wonderful river, with nice – four legged – bucks wading across the
river is damn hard to beat. Good thing I caught three steelhead
as well, or I would never hear the end of it, and may not anyway.
Thanks again for the great time, being a great guide, and providing
a truly wonderful experience. We’ll be fishing with you after
the election some time. Cheers,
Bill
________________________________________________________________
Oct 5,
2004
Jack,
I
Want to express my satisfaction for the greatest fly fishing experience.
This was a wonderful gift from my son-in-law and our first outdoor
adventure together. Our guide Al was absolutely perfect, extremely
knowledgeable and very patient teaching the tricks of Yakima rainbow
fishing. Besides, what a great surprise when he brought out
steaks to BBQ with all the trimmings for riverside lunch. Curtis
and I enjoyed the thrill of hooking some mighty scrappy fish.
We have some great stories to share with our friends and hope to
make another trip with our guide sometime in the near future.
Claude O'Clair
________________________________________________________________
Sept 20, 2004
Jack,
You may remember
my father and me, Greg and Ben Dow. Over the last 10 years I joined
my father on 3 or 4 of his trips with The Evening Hatch. On the
first trip I was probably about 13 and you were my guide, as well
as on my last trip 2 years ago. Every trip was great, especially
because they always seemed to find me at a time when I had laid
down my rod for too long. After every trip my interest in fly fishing
was renewed, and whether I was a 15-year-old preoccupied with getting
a driver's license or a college student with a hang over on the
weekends, I am sure that my time on the Yakima influenced me to
keep fishing. Finally, after my last trip with you, I decided that
fly fishing was a passion that I could not ignore. With the summer
off and law school coming up soon, I started fishing 4 or 5 days
a week and usually by myself. Sorry Jack, but I even started fishing
the Yakima without you. As a result, my skills and my passion increased.
This is where I need to thank you. In large part because of what
a positive experience fishing with you was, I not only became a
better fisherman, but was able to spend the last summer guiding
in Alaska at Talaview Lodge. It was while guiding a father-son group
that I realized that I needed to send you this email. The son was
11 and had never fly fished before. Fortunately, he was a natural
and I immediately put him on a cut bank that held some monster bows.
Just like you did for me once, I began explaining to him how the
fish hold in the foam lines that run down the bank. In about 30
minutes he landed a 22 inch native rainbow. Not only did it remind
me of the incredible times I was able to spend with my father on
the Yakima with the The Evening Hatch, but that those fishing trips
actually made me a better fisherman and guide. Again, thanks a lot
Jack.
Ben Dow
__________________________________________________________________
Sept
15, 2004
Just wanted
to let you folks know that on Saturday I had the best day on any
river I have ever been on! Your guide Al took my Dad (a total novice)
and I out for what was simply a fantastic day of fishing. He was
patient with my Dad's hornet nest of a line and incredibly informative
to my level of fly fishing. He was easy to be with and made a kick
ass lunch. Best of all he put me on a streamer rod just as the dry
flies stopped working and I picked up a monster rainbow that while
boating made my hand sore for a day after. He had all 3 "guns
loaded" as we moved from nymphs to dries and back again and
did everything he could to make it an awesome day for my Dad and
I.
Those memories
are priceless. I'll be out with Al again soon-next time with my
9 yr old boy-only too bad we can't get all 3 generations in the
same boat!
Thanks again
Dave
David
R. Flum MD MPH Assistant Professor
Department
of Surgery Division of General Surgery
Adjunct,
Assistant Professor Department of Health Services
University
of Washington Box 356410 Seattle, WA 98195
Telephone
(206) 616-5440 FAX (206) 543-8136
Email
daveflum@u.washington.edu
______________________________________________________________
Sept
8, 2004
Evening
Hatch,
My name is Tom Steves, last Monday I went on a guided trip with
my dad, and guide Al. Al was the best, and we had a fantastic
time. Al had taken a few digital pictures of that day and
I was hoping you could e-mail them to me.
Thanks,
Tom Steves
tsteves@hot.rr.com
stevet@totalshow.com
________________________________________________________
Sept
2
Hi Jack,
The Lawless
clan would like to thank you and Joe for a truly great time on
the river. Great fishing, great company, great time.
Nice
to get you out of the shop and rowing a boat for a change.
We could hardly tell that it has been 28 years since you actually
guided a trip. Oh, there were a few little clues, such as:
-taking
the wrong turn to the launch site (it's the river, not the
golf course where we go fishing)
-forgetting
which part was the top part of the fish (it's the part with
the that long skinny fin), creating an unfortunate method
of releasing the first few fish
-forgetting
which part was the front of the fish (it's the part with
the eyes and the mouth, not that little opening on the underside
of the fish), creating a unique way of trying to remove the hook
"I know it's around here somewhere"
-and
bringing a can of nightcrawlers as flies (but it's the thought
that counts).
It was
really good seeing you again, and I appreciate the excellent day.
Greg
________________________________________________________
Aug
25, 2004
Hi. I was just
wondering if Willo had the pictures of our trip from August
21st?
Thanks I had a
great trip and my client really enjoyed the outing!!
Paul Blomgren
_________________________________________________________________
Aug 15,
2004
Just wanted
to thank you guys for a great day even though it was Friday the
13th. Al Parks is an outstanding guide. He took us to the fish
and showed us a great time. I've been fly fishing for a year and my
buddy, Dave, was a first timer and Al had him on the fly rod catching
fish in no time. We boated some nice fish (up to 18") and
lost some too. We had more hookups then we could keep up with.
Al had all the patience in the world with Dave and I both. We
learned a ton and my buddy is now hooked. Al definitely made
the day worthwhile. We'll be back again.
Thanks
again for a wonderful time.
Ron Rathnow
___________________________________________________________________________
July 28th,
2004
Here are a
few pics from our trip today. It was truly a great trip - Mike Snyder
and I had a fantastic time. This was my first time fishing with
Joe - - but I sure hope it wasn't my last - Joe is a great guide
and he did a GREAT job for us today (as you'll be able to tell from
these pics)... We caught a boat load of fish - but not a lot of
them were picture worthy - - the one 18 inch cut Mike Snyder caught
we were unable to get a picture of because the fish was a little
distressed and Joe wanted to get him back in the water - but it
was a beautiful looking cut...
Anyway - had
a simply wonderful trip and Thanks Joe for a great time.
C.u.
Mike
____________________________________________________________________________
July
6th, 2004
Hey
Jack and Chris,
Can't
wait to see the the (digital) pictures of the fantastic fish Rich
(Whitehill,
reserved the trip) and I, (Tim Zilinsky) caught on Tuesday,
July
6th.
Chris,
you did an exceptional job as our guide. We have never caught so
many
large fish in one trip. Absolutely the best fishing trip I have
had,
and I think I speak for Rich as well. I told you I lived and fished
Jackson
Hole, Wyoming, but this out performed any float I ever did on
the
famed Snake River, and I know it's because of your talent and
knowledge
of the river, not to mention your patience! If you ever get
back
to the other side of the mountains, I would love to fish with you
again!
I know the holes and you have that special touch to entice the
fish
to hit!
I
believe I will be seeing you all again in the future.
Thanks
again for an unforgettable trip Chris!
Sincerely,
Tim
Zilinsky
June
18th, 2004
Hi Jack,
Yes, everyone did have a fabulous time!
Our anglers were very happy.
Can't thank you enough....
Have a great trip and we'll hope to see you
in the future.
Liz
Liz
Walters
Operation Altitude
P.O. Box 2666
Vail, CO 81658
liz@opalt.com
www.operationaltitude.com
June
11th, 2004
Hello,
The trip today
was amazing! Chris was great.
--Tony
Jopling
June
10th, 2004
Jack,
Just
to let you know how much I learned and benefited from my
time
with Greg Chang. He was excellent in helping me understand better
mechanics and more importantly catching fish. This was my first guide
trip and first float trio. And I caught 3 of the biggest fish I've
ever
caught.
Plus a dozen or so that were respectable. Of course, I lost the
really
big ones, since I was just learning how to play a large fish. But
Greg
taught me how not to lose them.
So
thanks again for great trip. If you see Greg, he has some
pictures
I'd like to get. Can you pass on my email or send me his.
Thanks,
Rich
Rardin
Connecticut.
June
3, 2004
Hey Jack,
We had a fabulous day fishing with your man Joe a couple weeks
ago. We actually lost track of the number of trout we
caught and most would average 15 inches…with a couple 18-19
inchers in there to boot. Needless to say we had a great
time and Joe was fantastic as a guide. We will be recommending
your shop and guide services to anyone that is inquiring abt
floating the Yak! And we plan on doing another trip
this Summer!
I’ve attached some photos of our day. Hopefully a couple
will make the website!
Warmest Regards,
Matt
Matt Fauske |
NOETIX
Account
Manager
2229 112th Avenue NE,
Bellevue,
WA
98004
Off
(425)372-2708 Fax (425)372-2942
www.noetix.com
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matt.fauske@noetix.com
Dear Jack
I just
wanted to send a quick note, we had a great day of fishing Sunday
and
Joe was
one of the best guides I have ever floated with. He was
knowledgeable
and accommodating and a pleasure to fish with, thanks again
for a
fun day.
Tim Adams
May 29,
2004
Dear Jack,
This past
weekend I had the pleasure of floating the Yakima with my best
friend looking to hook a few fish. I must say that the
float we went on far exceeded any of my expectations.
My hat
goes out to Joe our guide. Without Joe the trip would
not have been what it was. Joe rocks because of his knowledge,
vast amounts of patience, and his ability to teach without making
you feel inadequate. I recommend Joe to anyone who wants
to hook fish and have a great time doing it.
Thanks
again to Joe and we will be floating in the near future!
Brian
C. Nate | GOLF Insurance Agency | PEMCO Mutual Insurance
Company
509.323.8910 | 1.800.467.3626 ext. 8910 | Fax: 206.676.0281
|
REWARDING RESPONSIBILITY
May
25, 2004
Best fishing adventure ever! I’m spoiled now…….that was
an amazing day of fishing!
I look forward to the next one!
Steve
May 25, 2004
Jack,
Sorry
to be getting this out so late, but wanted to thank you for
one of the best days of flyfishing I've ever had! Good
weather, great friends and awesome fishing (and fish beaching
themselves)!!! It doesn't get any better than that. Thanks
again,
Mac
Fish-0n!!!!
May 12, 2004
Jack,
I assume
that you have rolled back into Ellensburg by now. On the flight
home Gene and I both hoped that you got a chance to swing those
streamers without a boat load of clients to distract you. We
had a tremendous outing and look forward to the chance of making
another similar trip in the future. I look forward to seeing
the photos. Gene left for California this morning to visit his
parents both of whom are in poor health. I would like to have
a framed photo of one of his big browns ready for his return.
Robert
G. Chadwell McKay Chadwell PLLC
600 University
Street, Suite 1601 Seattle, WA 98101
Phone:
206-233-2800 Fax: 206-233-2809
May 11, 2004
Jack,
Junior
and I had a fantastic time on "Operation Where'd Rooster
Go". Hope you guys had a good day on Monday....the drive
back was a b*tch. I will be sending a copy of my pictures to the
shop.
Junior
left his eye glasses in your center console he thinks. Leave them
at the shop and we will pick them up Friday since he has to go
see the judge in Ephrata about a speeding ticket.
REGARDS,
Jay
May 8, 2004
jack
i'm
sure joe must have told you about our great trip last week. i don't
think either roger nor i have ever had such a great day quantity
wise. thanks
i
have a group of 4...me, my daughter, my new daughter-in-law and
her father who would like to take the tent trip on july 16 and 17.
from the web site i understand the cost is $550 per person. we would
meet in ellensburg friday morning, fish friday, stay the night at
the tent camp and fish again on sat. could you please confirm the
price by e-mail as soon as possible so i can forward that info and
then confirm the other details as a follow up. also, if at all possible
i would like to use joe as one of the guides and then whoever you
or he might recommend.
awaiting
your reply.
bob
May 3, 2004
Jack,
What
a great time this weekend!!!! I cant wait to hit it again.
Could you e-mail me the dates we are scheduled for the 4 people.
Jason
Schroeder
May 1, 2004
Jack,
As
usual, we are looking forward to fishing with the "Best Guide
Service" in the Northwest. You can quote me on that.
We'll talk more about the "Secret Fishing Spot"; I'd like
to discuss possibilities for next year.
April 9, 2004
Hi Jack,
We had an absolutely fantastic time with you and the guys.
We feel so fortunate to have the YAK and the best damn guys/guides
all so close. Jules and I are already jones’in to get
back on the YAK.
Many Thanks again and Wig on!
Shelley (Greg, Steve, Tim and Jules)
March
31, 2004
Jack,
Thanks for great day Monday.
Can you send me the confirmation for
May 5. So far I have 7 committed.
Jim Passage
Passage and Associates
206 622 3330
jimpassage@msn.com
www.passageandassociates.com
March
30, 2004
Jack,
What a
day we had on the Yakima yesterday with The Evening Hatch Guide
Johnny Boitano! My wife caught her first rainbow (s) with a fly
rod! As beginners, we were reluctant to book a day with a guide.
I guess we were fearful of embarrassing ourselves with our lack
of even the basic fly fishing skills. Johnny was terrific! He
took inventory of our skills and put together a very successful
day on the river for us. We caught fish! And we must have had
a total of 40 or 50 rise to our flies throughout the day. Johnny's
instruction was clear and simple and easy to respond to. He maneuvered
the drift boat with expertise...placing us near enough to the
best seams and drifts so that, even with our limited casting experience,
we were able to get the flies over the fish. Most of all, Johnny
was patient and professional! We weren't able to master the art
of setting the hook...just ask Johnny! But it wasn't due to lack
of opportunity. We missed some good ones, but were happy with
our successes and even happier with our progress. The day was
very educational and enjoyable. We felt safe and in good hands!
We didn't want to stop for lunch because we were having so much
fun. When we finally did, we were glad! We had worked up a bit
of an appetite catching (and missing) all those fish. Johnny had
a great lunch for us riverside! We were blessed with the added
bonus of seeing Mountain Sheep, Mule Deer, Geese, Ducks and even
a Bald Eagle. Amongst all the Rainbow Trout, I managed to boat
a small Cutthroat Trout as well. I feel as though we saw much
more action than others on the river yesterday. Please pass on
our sincerest appreciation to Johnny and all the folks at The
Evening Hatch. We'll be back.
Sincerely,
Matt & Angela
Prater
Wenatchee
March
23, 2004
Jack,
Great day
on the river today. I really enjoyed it. Look forward
to the pics. Thanks again.
If you
are interested in pursuing the bamboo rod builder, his name is Bruce
Herndon and his email address is
splitcanerods@cs.com.
Have a
great season. I'll probably see you again in the fall.
Brian
March
20, 2004
Jack,
After 20 some odd years in the military,
I like to think I can recognize a great outfit when I see one. You
guys at The Evening Hatch and Riverside Adventures are just that,
a great outfit! From your attention to detail in the small things
i.e. thank you notes for shuttles to your friendly patience and
advice to wantabe Trout Bums that occasionally hang out in your
shop to the caliber of your guides, you guys set the standard.
Having just returned from my first Steelhead
adventure on the coast and guided by Jeff Brazda, I am truly haunted
by the experience. Despite challenging weather, water conditions
and an at least one over excited, non-casting angler (namely me)
he was awesome. Jeff had a plan A, B, and C. He was the epitome
of patience, professionalism and what a guide should be.
Great outfit!
See you on the water,
Joel B. Manning
Lieutenant Colonel
U.S. Army
Feb 15, 2004
Thanks Jack.
It was nice to meet you face to face as well. I had a great day
today. It was slow until 1300 and then it heated up. The tree was
great. Thanks. Biggest landed was 17 inches. Biggest hooked, 20+,
he broke my leader, but what a blast. We also were able to smell
the roses, bald eagle and deer.
Steve made it OK, but couldn't wade all the way down to the tree.
I think he is getting to the point where it has to be boat or nothing.
Thanks for trying to help us find a place for him to get in and
fish. He loves to fish, and is as tough as nails. He never complains,
but he is pretty limited.
We are both very excited about 12 March.
Jeremy
Feb 14, 2004
Good Morning
Jack
I just
wanted to let you know that I truly had a great day on the Yakima.
I was fishing mile post 19 on the recommendation of your associate
Al who was at the shop when I stopped by at 11 AM. He did you justice
on his description of the water and the technique needed. I
was completely amazed by the weather as I drove into Ellensburg.
15 miles up I90 it was 37 degrees and sunny, then the
frozen fog began. I have lived all over the USA and never
even heard the term, frozen fog, until today. It was beautiful
to see the trees, the canyon, and the sun burn it's way through
in the afternoon. The added bonus was lots of Eagles and Bighorns
exposed by the white ice.
As far
as the fishing went I had my best day ever on the Yakima.
After you passed me today I finally hooked up with a true
YAK BOW. The fish hooked up at the apex of my swing after
two little nibbles on at previous cast on the slow strip.
The fish was about 18-19 inch's long and was just beautiful
to admire in the sunlight.
Prior to
today I had only caught a few fish 10" or under
on the Yakima. I guess why I'm telling you this that I want you
to know how much I appreciate your advice and how much I admire
your dedication to what you do. Your dedicated support of the Yakima
fishery is awesome!! And really the best thing about you is that
you are nice. Thank you for everything.
Regards,
Eric
Feb 1, 2004
Jack, I know
this is late in getting to you, but thanks so much for taking
the time to take Honnen and I down the Yak last weekend. To both
Steve and I, it was a fantastic day on the river! Also, I'd like
to purchase a sinking line like the one you had on your rod that
I used when I hooked up 11 fish in one hole! Let me know and I'll
purchase the same line from you.
Thanks-Mac
Jan 20, 2004
Jack,
Thanks
for all the tips and suggestions today. I guess I goofed with the
map that you drew, it made more sense as I looked at the river
from the roadway. At any rate, we're safe and sound back in the
busy part of the state but we are looking forward to driving east
again soon.
I personally
am interested in a guided float trip during the winter. I usually
am able to make it up on weekdays, so I'll have to figure out my
schedule and give you a ring. How many people can your boats accommodate
and when is the best time to come in the next month and a half?
I do want
to thank you for being so personable. I've experienced a bit of
snobbery on this side of the mountains at certain fly shops, and
can tell you how much I appreciate your friendliness and openness.
Thanks again.
Mark Gray
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