Blog In Dormant Stage.................................................

It has been quiet around here for the past couple of weeks.    Just thought I would toss a post up here tonight and let everyone know.  Know what? All is well, here..............................................

However, there have been some significant happenings in my life over the past couple of weeks that have led me to this difficult decision.  This blog is being put in a dormant stage for now....

Remember, all is well, so don't anyone panic.  Am blessed to have an opportunity to live each day and I want to make the most of my time.  Just going in a new direction.....................

How about that! Thanks so much for all of you who have spent countless hours reading my blog and leaving comments.  You have helped me more than you will ever know.......................... 

God Bless!

We Have Lost One Of Our Own.........................................

I am totally shocked this morning to read of the loss of Bryan Kristopher Dale, from The Rogue Outdoors..

Bryan's death is being confirmed so I have no details to pass on at this time.  Just wanted my fellow BlogBuddies to know of what I have learned this morning.

Bryan, has been a follower and supporter of my blogging efforts at Pond Stalker headquarters for quite some time.  He often commented on my blog, as, I did his.  In fact, my fly box for warm water fishing includes some Crappie patterns that he had sent to me to experiment with.  I always appreciated his insight and blogging creativity.  He has just recently, in the last year, became a married man.  Most recently, he had remodeled his blog and it was looking top notch.   
R.I.P. my friend.  The blogging world will miss you.  
The Pond Stalker sends my condolences to his family and all of his close, personal friends during this difficult time..............................................

****An update from Bryan's wife Jane:

 
For sure plans will be Friday funeral service for Bryan Kristofer Dale in Marshalltown, Iowa. Approximate time at 11am Friday at family church and then celebration of life (with memories of Bryan) to follow at the country club. The church is fairly small so not all may fit there, but family for sure would like a headcount regarding the celebration of life service following so please respond here or to any of the Dale family. They know you may be coming a long way and would like to welcome you. I will provide more details later when I know them.

The "Geezer" Hatch.....................

Continuing to be confined to the home while the most recent blast of snow covered up Northern Colorado highways and surrounding area with heavy snow does have it's benefits.  

Just as in the case of my previous post, 
http://pondstalker.blogspot.com/2015/02/fly-fishing-size-dont-matter.html
fly fishing videos can be a beautiful respite.

So can a blog post by some fellow bloggers.  In this case, from the great blog, at Gink & Gasoline

Let me be up front with everyone.  I am a Viet Nam Veteran.  Some of you may have already known that.  Some not, I am sure.  In any manner, I have been profoundly impacted by my time during the war and have looked for a way to explain who I am and how I feel about it.

Well, when I read this post this morning over on Gink and Gasoline, I can't begin to tell you what it meant to me.  For it said everything about the time and the men and women that lived and died during that time.  Kind of like, "This is us, me, never forget what we have been through".  

If you are a regular follower of my blog and give a hoot about the Pond Stalker, please indulge me and read this post from the folks at Gink and Gasoline.  It is me, one of those Ol' Geezers.

Fly Fishing Size Don't Matter

Got up this morning and looked out the bedroom window. Yup, its snowing good in Northern Colorado. Also, supposed to be heavy snow this weekend and cold. Sounds like a perfect time to stay indoors and tie flies, read a good fly fishing book, or watch fly fishing video's if you have nothing else to do and honey-do's can wait. So, I am going to do something here that is sort of out of the normal for me. I came across a video that I liked pertaining to fly fishing warm water and rivers in particular for warm water fish. I thought it was very well done and set the mood for me this morning. Hope you enjoy.
**** A thank you should go to David Frazier for sharing this great video!

Pond Stalker 2015 and Beyond

From the ponds in and around Loveland, Colorado.

I am a retired Fly Fisher & Fly Tyer who has spent most of his fly fishing past chasing Trout in Stillwaters across the Western United States with brief excursions on small streams and warmwater ponds.

I won't make any attempt to mislead anyone here,  I have loved fishing lakes and ponds for years.  My passion has always led me to these waters and the fun they offer to the flyfisher and fly tyer.  Although, most trips out were for chasing the big trout that lakes produce, my secret passion has been the fun of fly fishing for Bluegill, Crappie, Sunfish, and other assorted warm water fish.  I am currently taking an interest in getting to know more about fly fishing for Bass.  Perhaps even some Carp in the future.  One step at a time you Ol' Geezer, I remind myself!

Living in Northern Colorado where I do offers plenty of opportunity for me to chase my dreams in warm water fly fishing and fly tying.  What I love most about it is that I can drive less than (15) minutes from my home and be on the water with a chance at a good time.  Economical, time saving, and, that word "FUN" again.  Which in turn means more fishing and tying time for me.   I am also very Grandchildren oriented so I have plenty of other activity to keep me busy so time on the water still needs to be worked around everything else.  

I, also, have to be a very budget oriented Geezer.   Being a Senior Citizen on a fixed budget requires that I spend my money wisely and my time efficiently.
I take great pleasure in keeping my fly fishing time as simple as possible.    From the gear I use to the techniques I use. It works! 

 Please take the time to look around on my blog and enjoy what is here. Your support is greatly appreciated! 

Please ignore this silly box here showed up and won't go away!!!!!

Bloggin' Time Or Something From Ground Control...........

Sometimes it seems that even during the winter months a fly fishing fanatic can be busy enough that sometimes it is hard to keep caught up.  For instance, check out this Blogger.

Anyhow, a few things have been going on to keep me more than busy it seems.  Time to catch up my blog readers with a few updates.

Let's begin with the announcement that I have started a new Facebook Group over on, of course, Facebook.   It is called Budget Minded Fly Fishing Gear.  

Being a Senior Citizen on a restricted budget really causes me to have to shop very closely and thoroughly when determining rather I can afford to add a piece of gear to my current fly fishing world.  There are many fly fishers out there just like me.  So, I decided to put up a page for Group input and feedback on those fly fishing related items that will help us all when looking for just the right piece of gear at the right price,  Anyway, we are off to a good start on the Group with about (40) participants already.  If you are interested please feel free to take a look at the link to the page and join in on the fun and sharing of real and practical information that any budget minded angler could use.  Your participation is appreciated.

Like most other fly fishers, winter is also a time for staying pretty close to the fly tying vise and I am no different than anyone else.  Here is picture I took just this morning of a hodgepodge of flies I have cranked out over the last 2 or 3 days.  This is just a sampling of the flies I have been adding to my boxes for Spring season.

To finish up with this update, Colorado has had some unusually warm days for a short stretch of time.  With that the ice has melted off some of the ponds.  However, I suspect we will have more cold and ice and snow before too long.  Spring is coming and I am going to be ready.  I have not yet received my custom Blue Halo Fiberglass rod from Average Joe's Fishn Poles.  However, Phillip, has it near ready and sent a photo yesterday.  I wanted to share it with you.

I am stoked to get this in my hands so I can begin my end of the job as a rod tester..............

My Custom Built "Blue Halo" From The Beginning

I wanted to share with my readers how things were coming along on my custom built Blue Halo fiberglass rod.

 If you are a regular reader of my blog then, as you recall, I have been blessed to asked to be a Field Tester for Average Joe's Fishn Poles.  Phillip Butterfield does some beautiful work on custom built rods and I have been eyeballing them a lot over the past year or so.  I was ecstatic to have Phillip offer me this opportunity to be a Field Tester.  I am ready, willing, and able to put this custom built sweetheart to the test this year on The Big Thompson River and my favorite ponds near home.

Phillip sent along some pictures for me to get the idea of what the rod's appearance and quality are.  I would like to share those pictures with you here.

It is a 8' Three Piece 5 Wt.

Yup, that would be me...................

Three Piece All Maple handle group

This is a note attached from Phillip:

" Thought I would give you a little look see as to the rod that you will be getting: The first thing that you'll notice different is the three piece maple handle group; next is the lack of an agate stripping guide (trust me those are purely for decoration and they don't come on the $299.95 factory model) Next you will notice that the mid section and the tip have matched guides. That is about all of the differences between my build and a factory build.  Oh I have also wrapped the furrel the full length to provide additional support, that too is different from the factory model."

Headed to Colorado..................................

Those are sweet words to my ears.  Anticipating getting out and putting a line on this and beginning my evaluation.  I am sure you will hear more from me about Average Joe's Fishn Poles. 

 Stay tuned...............................................

The "After Christmas" Owl......And Cabin Fever......

In my last post, I referred to receiving an after Christmas package of fly tying goodies from
 Owl Jones Art & Design.

It was packed full of a number of different fly tying goodies that Owl thought I could use this winter.  As I said, previously in the other post, he sure went out of his way to make a guy on the other side of the U.S.A. one happy old dude.  While I won't get into what all was sent along too me, I will make note of something here that I hope my readers take a close look at.

Pictured here are a couple of beautifully painted and tied Zazzy Poppers meant to be tossed for some ornery Largemouth Bass hiding under cover of whatever.  I just wanted to say, while I am not a skilled Popper fly rod angler, I certainly plan on giving these a go when the ice comes off the ponds.  Better yet, on through the summer morning and evenings also.  I have checked these two out and they are well tied and appear indestructible as far as the Popper head goes. I will give a review of how the Zazzy's do after they have been used a bit.

Now on to another point about Owl Jones.  Owl is a very active fellow.  Along with his successful Artwork, Owl is back on board the fly fishing blogging scene with his latest efforts.  Owl's new blog is called Fishlicker.  If you have read or tuned into some of Owl's past activities on the blogging scene you know he is a very talented writer, very funny when he wants to be, and, a pretty darn good fly angler to boot.  Do me a favor and get over and visit Owl's blog and say hello and let him the Pond Stalker is saying things about him..................................

Owl has also just began his winter time production line for his Zazzy Poppers.  He does keep it seasonal at this point,  So if you are interested in picking up some of his custom made Poppers check out his Zazzy Popper Facebook page.
 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now, about that Cabin Fever stuff.  It sets in every year about this time out my way in Colorado.  Just can't wait to get out on some open water and fling a fly.  You know you can only watch so many fly fishing videos or tie up so many Wooly Buggers during the winter.  Anyway, I wanted to share what my BlogBuddy Josh has been up too over at Something's Fishy.
Josh has been trophy trout fishing with a fly.....................................................................
You will enjoy this, I did..........................................................

A New Year's Ramble...............................

Good Morning!

 
 What a rush! I see I have not posted since a little before Christmas so thought I would kick it in gear with my first post of 2015.  I am thinking that there were several small things I wanted to post about.  While, perhaps, none of them is worthy of a full post on their own, maybe collectively they will make for a heads up on what is and has been going on here at Pond Stalker Headquarters................ So with that I will begin my ramble...................

We had a wonderful Christmas season here at Pond Stalker Headquarters.  In fact, it was probably one of the best Christmas's with family in recent memory.  Also, received some blessings from BlogBuddies, Fly Tackle Dealers, and Facebook fly fishing friends.  More on that in a minute.

Recently, I went in and had my Flu and Pneumonia shot.  Results, I got sick!

 Oh, well......... At my age you try to take whatever precautions you can.  But, still, I don't like being sick,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

A friend asked me the other day about what I thought of the current issues we have in this country about Homeless Veteran's.  I didn't waste any words in telling her what I thought.  Take a minute if you will, and, contemplate on this.........................

 Folks, we have a problem here in the land of the free,,,,,,,,,,,,,'Nuff said.

Ok, lets ramble for awhile about how great is to have a wonderful bunch of guys and gals who support our blogging efforts and our efforts through other social networks like Facebook in my case.  I want to give a shout out to folks who made my holiday season extra special.  First off, all of the Contests and Giveaways from fly tackle dealers over on Facebook always adds to the fun.  I enter a lot, and most often, don't win a thing.  However, I still feel good about that as friends are winning and that makes me happy! I did win a dozen flies that I am looking forward to receiving from a new Fly Shop down in Eagle Nest, New Mexico.  

Thanks, Tim, from Eagle Nest Fly Shack

I, also, received an after Christmas package of fly tying goodies from my long time blogging friend, Owl Jones Art & Design.  Now Owl is a fly fisher, fly tyer, and artist.  We had talked about sending a long a few things that I could use, but I have to tell you Owl, you out did yourself here and I am very grateful for your blessings.

Also, want to send along a shout out to my friend, John Wood at JWFlyfishing.  John has provided flies to me to be field tested once I can get on the water.  Please take a moment and have a look at John's Blog and website.  He has some great patterns that I think will excite the fish wherever you may be.  He, also, makes some beautiful custom fly fishing nets, and, I will be picking up some of his Twisted and Tied Leaders to play with this season.

I have saved some exciting news for last on this post.  The other day, one of those sick days, I received a message from Phillip Butterfield at Average Joe's Fishin Poles.  He wanted to know if I would be interested in becoming a Field Tester for his custom made fly rods.  After a short conversation, an agreement was finalized, and, I am soon to be the owner of a 
Blue Halo 8' 4-5wt Fiberglass Custom Build to my specifications from Phillip.  As Phillip said too me, "Have a happy Halo New Year".  I have so noted on my side bar at the top of this blessing from Phillip. 

I am very excited about 2015 and my time on the water.  May your year be filled with blessings and happy hook ups.
 

MERRY FISHMAS ...................................

And, To All A Good Night.................

 

May you all have many happy hookups in the coming year!

'Twas The Night Before Christmas.................................................

As I so often say, "Nuff said"

T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,

HE LIVED ALL ALONE,

IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF

PLASTER AND STONE.

I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY

WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,

AND TO SEE JUST WHO

IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.

I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,

A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,

NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,

NOT EVEN A TREE.

NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,

JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,

ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES

OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.

WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,

AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,

A SOBER THOUGHT

CAME THROUGH MY MIND.

FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,

IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,

I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,

ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.

THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,

SILENT, ALONE,

CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR

IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.

THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,

THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,

NOT HOW I PICTURED,

A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.

WAS THIS THE HERO OF WHOM I'D JUST READ?

CURLED UP ON A PONCHO, THE FLOOR FOR A BED?

I REALIZED THE FAMILIES

THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,

OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS

WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.

SOON ROUND THE WORLD,

THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,

AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE

A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.

THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM

EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,

BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,

LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.

I COULDN'T HELP WONDER

HOW MANY LAY ALONE,

ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE

IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.

THE VERY THOUGHT

BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,

I DROPPED TO MY KNEES

AND STARTED TO CRY.

THE SOLDIER AWAKENED

AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,

"SANTA DON'T CRY,

THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;

I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,

I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,

MY LIFE IS MY GOD,

MY COUNTRY, MY CORPS."

THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER

AND SOON DRIFTED TO SLEEP,

I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,

I CONTINUED TO WEEP.

I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,

SO SILENT AND STILL

AND WE BOTH SHIVERED

FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.

I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE

ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,

THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR

SO WILLING TO FIGHT.

THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,

WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,

WHISPERED, "CARRY ON SANTA,

IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE."

ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH, AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT."

Just Some Pictures From Life's Other Side......Part 1

While there are certainly a number of things going on in the Pre-Christmas craze to keep us all a little busy, to say the least, this time of year usually sees me sitting at my fly tying vise.  It's time to fill the fly boxes back up with all the ol' regular patterns, plus, a few new ones that you came across that uses that new fly tying material just introduced down at the fly shop.

Yes, we can jump over to Cameron Mortenson at The Fiberglass Manifesto and play along with his terrific Twelve Days of Christmas Giveaways that he has so masterfully put together for all of us fly fishing folk.

There are a number of other fly fishing related companies who are having snazzy Christmas Giveaways also of their own kind.  

What I am really trying to say here is that fly fishing opportunities will be slim and none for awhile in Northern Colorado for me.  So, with that in mind, I have decided to take on another task that I have been meaning to get too for awhile now.  I am taking the time over a period of several weeks to browse back through my old picture library (before digital and computers became so common), and, will be scanning some of these old pictures into the new format.  With that said, I figured I could put together a short series of posts over the next few months talking about my fly fishing journey and some pictures from life's other side.  I hope you will enjoy my posts and some of the pictures that I will share with you during these winter weeks.  So here are a few shots from some time ago.  Please remember this was primarily from the years 1975-1995 or so.

First off, let me start with something that was very close too me during that time.  No, not a fly rod or reel, but, my well worn ol' fishing hat.

Now, this western style straw hat was what I wore for many, many years.  Please note the fleece lined head band on the hat filled with Wooly Buggers, Mohair Leeches, Stayner Ducktails, and a few smaller nymph patterns.  I kept it loaded and ready to fish with.  I was even known to give away a few that I had stuck in my hat if I had the "hot" pattern of the day.  Usually, in my fishing at the time, I could pretty much fish one of the patterns on this hat and could count on being successful for the day.

  The old round float tube.  This one was one of the early dinosaur models back in the day made by a fellow angler out of Nampa, Idaho, Wayne "Tex" Meeks.   One always wondered if we tipped the tube back too far, would it tip over.  You probably could, but, it would have to be a violent jerk backwards for that too happen.  I caught many, many fish over a number of years out of this tube with no problem at all.  It was almost too comfortable on a hot day (taking a nap) once in awhile would be interrupted by the electrifying jerk of a trout on the other end of the line.  Also, please note the hat in place.  I was kind of a Merle Haggard look alike back in the day.............

Here is a picture of yours truly with my fish-mobile of that day and age.  That old Dodge pickup and me put 350,000 miles on each other traveling all over the States of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, etc. etc. chasing stillwater trout.  Oh, the stories I could tell you all.

But, alas, those days are gone and faded pictures is all I have for memories.  I hope to have recaptured some of the moments with this post and a few future posts like this as I get the time.

If I don't get another chance, may you all have a wonderful upcoming Holiday season.......

P.S.  - My friend and long time BlogBuddy, Michael Agneta at Troutrageous, gets a pat on the back and a Colorado handshake for helping me out with some editing on these ol' pictures. 

Thanks, Mike, could not have done it without your support....

Let's Start The Christmas Season Off Right......................................

Well, here it is, December 1st, 2014.  My how time passes by.  Turkey and Football gives way too shiny lights and Christmas trees.  While I am not a fan of commercialized Christmas events and treasure special moments with my family and homemade Christmas gifts that bring bring smiles and hugs from those you love the most, I do enjoy listening to Christ;mas music during the next few weeks.

A friend of mine pointed me in the direction of this video tonight, and, I knew right away that it was time to begin the celebration of Christmas.   Hope you enjoy this video.......................................

Post by EPN: Elvis Presley News.

It it amazing what the world of electronics can bring us these days.

Time to sit around the fly tying bench and listen to some of my favorite Christmas songs while I await to see what Santa leaves for this ol' Fly Tyer this year..............................

At Last........................

For all of you who have wondered what happened to Mel and his blog, I need to let you know a few things............................

Between some family needs, some health concerns, and, some time on the road, I have not fished my local ponds since late October. Then it snowed and got down around (-10) degrees at night. Winter season is here in Colorado, too!

Note: I did not take this picture, but, sure appreciate who did.  This is a cold morning overlooking the South Shore of Lake Loveland.  Cold and beautiful.............................

That being said, let me take this moment to wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving with your families and friends.  I pray that none of you ate so much that you won't be able to cast a line again until next Spring............

Now, myself, I am into winter tackle maintenance and re-filling my tackle boxes with lures, jigs, and, the occasional fly, too.  Until then, I will just have to dream along with these two guys...

Ok, Ok,  something else must be up here.  Until next time........................................

Trick Or Treat......Fly Tying

Waiting for all the neighborhood kids and my Grandkids to converge on the Pond Stalker Headquarters for some Trick or Treating goodies.   Actually, my wife has warned me to stay out of the goodies and make sure there is some left for all the ghouls, goblins, witches, and, robust power rangers this evening.

So, 

I spent some time looking back at some ol' fly tying pictures I have hung on to for some reason.  No, no pretty flies here.  Just a few memories.  Like this one.

Man, that was a long time ago.  I was doing a fly tying rehearsal just prior to the start of the Eastern Idaho Fly Tying Expo.    What a fun time back in the day.............................

Or, like this one.  Again, no pretty flies, just me, my vise, and some Jack Daniels..............

 This was a late night tying session in a lodge I was staying in prior to fishing the Green River below Flaming Gorge Reservoir.  Which way did the trout go?..............................................

Anyway, I have really enjoyed tying flies now for around (35) years.  Nothing pretty, just simple fishing fun........................

With that in mind, and beings it is Halloween, spent some time today tying up some spooky looking flies that probably won't catch a darn thing.  Just some fun with Halloween  and a belly full of candy................

Trick Or Treat Hopper

 

Beadhead Trick Or Treat Nymph

 

Beadhead Trick Or Treat Leech

 

Well, anyway, enough of the fun.  I better nap before the doorbell starts ringing.  Have a 

"SPOOKTACLULAR HALLOWEEN EVERYONE"

 

 

 






 

Bottom Feeders..............

Thought I would write this post and see how many Bottom Feeders read my blog?  Well, let me see........

I figured I would have to add "Something Fishy" to this post in order to catch anyone's attention.

What I was wondering, really, was how many of my BlogBuddy's actually visit other blogs and take the time to see what all is included on the main page of the Blog? Do you just click in and scan or read the most current post or do you visit the Blogs other pages or check out the other Gadgets on a fellow bloggers blog?  

As an example, I have moved some of my blog's gadgets to the bottom of my page.  There may be some worthwhile information there for you to check out.  For example, if you are so inclined, you will find my Followers who follow me over on Google's Social Network.  Or, you can click to... "Join This Site" which is the old Blogger Follow button.  I just put it back up on my blog, so come on folks, I know I should have more than just 2 Followers.........................

Also, there are visual buttons there for clicking to link to the Outdoor Blogger Network , and, to Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing.  I have proudly been a supporter of both of these organizations for quite a while now and encourage you to check them out.  Yes, the Outdoor Blogger Network is still functioning to some extent.  Just thought I would add that bit of information at this time.....................

Down on the bottom of my page, you will also find, my blog archives.  Every post that I have written since the Pond Stalker blog was started.  In addition, is a List of Topics that I have written about that might help you out if you are looking for something in specific.  I know that this is just general information, but, it is worth your time if you need to check anything out.

I have, also, added a Form that you may use if would want to ask a question to me privately or wish to make any other suggestion about my blog.  This is all done through Email and I welcome all input..............

To wrap up, I will also be adding more to the bottom section of my blog as we go along, so I encourage you to not only be a reader here, but, check out the Bottom Feeder at the bottom of my page.

If you  have read this long, I thought I would let you know that I am taking my fly tying vise out of my tying bag and getting my desk set up for some Winter fly tying.  More to come..................

In The Still Of The Night..........................

Every Picture Tells A Story................

As a follow up to my previous post of "Comes The Dawn",  and, the rush of excitement that comes with a new morning on the pond, thought I should share the other end of the spectrum.

In The Still Of The Night

It has been another blessed day on the Front Range in Colorado..................

Your at peace............

You, the fish, and water have come together.................

In total serenity.........

Let us rest............

For soon it will be..............

In the still of the night...............

Comes The Dawn...............................

Every picture tells a story...........................

Bass Pond

(Please double click to see enlarged picture)

10/15/2014:
Spent (2 and a 1/2 hours) on the water this morning.......
I was interested in Stalking some Bass..................
They were not interested in me..................
Research and Development required...............

Nature's Exhibit.... A Colorado Fall

The "Fall" season has always been my favorite time of year here in Colorado.  Now, Colorado is a beautiful state year round, but, something about Fall being in the air in Colorado seems to bring out the best that nature has to offer all of us who are lucky enough to be here during this time.

Now I love this time of year for various reasons.  This guy and our team being one of the main things I can't wait until each Fall season comes around.  Go, Bronco's!

However, I want to focus on the things that make the Colorado Fall season just as spectacular and meaningful too me, as  is my love for the Bronco's.

Brown Trout have always had a place in my heart.  From a beautiful small stream Brown like this one to gargantuan size Browns in other areas of Colorado.  Brown Trout have my attention come Fall.  There are some beautiful spots on the Big Thompson River that I like to go to challenge a Brown Trout when I can.

Hello, Estes Park, Colorado.  Is this not a beautiful setting for the Fall season.  The wildlife, the outdoors, the waters, surround you.  Take it all in.  You won't for get it.  While you are out and about in the Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park nearby, be sure and listen for another of my favorite Fall wildlife friends.

This big guy coming ashore after a refreshing time in the water made for a great camera opportunity.  Fishing can wait.....................

Here is another big guy who is out for a morning stroll.  Make sure you stay focused on the road while driving and maintain a cautious speed.  This is up close and personal enough!

If you have never heard the "Call" of the Elk, you are truly missing one of Colorado's wildlife treasures.  I listen in awe!  I can't explain it in words, you just have to be here to know what I am talking about.

The colors of Fall be they, Yellow, Gold, Red, Green, Blue are spectacular.  Fall foliage is spectacular, too! Sorry, I did not take pictures for this post to show.  Maybe, more to come.......

As a final note here, be aware that just because you live in one of Colorado's Front Range communities, doesn't mean that the wildlife don't come to pay a visit this time of year.  They make their way around to handle their life needs.  Be cautious.  Here are a couple of pictures from my close neighborhood in Loveland just this Fall.

"Looks like it is about time for me to s-c-a-t-"

This fella' wandered into my apartment complex while headed to the Big Thompson River beds

 

***Just want to do the obligatory reminder here that all of my pictures posted here are easily viewed and easier to see when double clicked for a closer view.

 

Thanks for allowing me to share Nature's exhibit here in a typical Colorado Fall.....................

 

 

 

Thumbs Up Thursday.................

Well, since it is Thursday, and I had a few items on my mind, thought I would put up another Thumbs Up Thursday post.

Thumbs Up Thursday's may not occur every Thursday, but, I will use this as a theme for when they do...................

Thumbs Up Thursday's will be used to give a shout out or a Thumbs Up to a few of my BlogBuddies for recent work on their blogs, plus, to make note of other stuff I run across while perusing the internet looking for fishy goodness!

So, to cut the blabbering and get to the point, let me begin by giving a Thumbs Up to my Blogbuddy Jeremy over at Troutings.  Jeremy lives in a part of Colorado that I have not had the opportunity to explore for fishing purposes.  Visiting and reading some of his blog posts certainly whets the appetite to make sure I have a chance someday.  Here is a link to a recent post that Jeremy has up on his blog about fishing the Grand Mesa. 

Now, if that doesn't get your fish ticker going then I don't know what would.  Thank you, Jeremy, for making this ol' guy have Grand Mesa fish in his dreams.

Another BlogBuddy that I have followed for a long time, (you will see why) writes about his time on Utah Waters.   Justin's blog, the Utah Water Log, is always crammed full of beautiful pictures of gorgeous Utah and many, many great fish that his waters offer.  Here is a link to a recent post titled "All Over The Place"

Enough already, Jeremy and Justin, you two guys have convinced me that you both have wonderful waters to fish and some awesome fish stories to tell.  Well worth a fishing blogger to follow both these blogs and keep up on what is shaking the fishing dreams tail this week.

I could not finish this post without saying thank you to all my blogging friends who have re-connected with my blogging efforts in the past week or so.  You can and do make a difference in this ol' geezers life..................................