Dear Friends,
So that is what the end of the world looks like? Here in Montana we were more geared up for zombies or Russian troops than a virus. This has been a wild scary ride and our hope is all our friends around the country fared as well as we did.
I learned a few things about life from the pandemic. First is that no matter how bad things get each day the sun comes up, trout rise and the Mountains of Montana look more beautiful each day. The second is that we are in this business for the people. Our staff, guides and great guests are way more important than any epic fishing. Without the people the fishing is less important. The third is to embrace the change in the world.
While a good swath of the country is still working from home and not able to be with us in Montana, we are lucky enough to be fishing the Madison River. Our store is open and guide trips have resumed. We understand the concern from our guests for safety and we have put procedures in place to mitigate many of the risks in both the store and on our trips. This pandemic is a really bad and has drastically changed life and the way we do business. Ennis Montana and The Tackle Shop are not immune from those effects and changes.
While many things have changed the fabric of Montana, wide open spaces, trout and Mountains have not. None of these have a virus and are all healthy and strong. Recently, our guide trips have been highly successful in anticipation of the famed Mothers Day Caddis Hatch. Cold weather has put off the hatch on the Upper Madison but the lower has seen some great dry fly fishing. The river feels almost eerie with significantly less fisherman than normal and it is not uncommon to have an entire 13 mile float to yourself.
Runoff is right around the corner and we are looking forward to the Salmon Fly Hatch in June. Sunny skies, warm temps, cold rivers and size 6 dry flies go a long way to make the world right. The warm days of summer are sure to follow. As America and Montana reemerge from our isolation big views and elbow room are just what the doctor ordered.
We understand many of you will be unable to make it to Montana this year but rest assured we will be here fishing the Madison River when your ready. While many things can be done virtually one can not feel the cool breeze in your face. the tug of a fish or the views of this great valley. If your craving your Montana fix give me a call and we can discuss how to accomplish your Montana fly fishing trips safely. We are all in this together and my mantra going forward is this. The comeback is much better than the set back.
Good Fishing and God Bless,
The Tackle Shop Team
