Some of you may recognize the iconic line from The Clash’s song, but to be honest, the question has been torturing me lately. As I examine my non-hook punctured fingers and dry, cracking knuckles I realize that they’re dry not from releasing yet another gift from the fishing gods but from diligently washing my hands to prevent the spread of this awful virus that has frozen many of us in our track. Yes, I’m desperate to stand in any one of my favorite rivers and cast to those ‘fishy’ locations but I’m struggling because all of my favorite rivers are an hour or more from my home in Arvada.
I have used the justification I’ve heard stating that fishing can be a solitary sport and that I wouldn’t even come in contact with anyone. But then I saw Kyle Clark on 9News’s program, Next, scold those that were still heading to the high-country to get the fix on whatever mountain addiction ails them. He emphasized that despite your best intentions of staying away from people and towns, through no fault of your own, you may end up needing assistance from any of our brave first responders. And now you’ve exposed them and every single person they will come in contact with for the next several hours or weeks. I was devastated, but the argument makes total sense. I stayed home.
Finally, I came across an article from Kirk Deeter on Angling Trade’s website that really confirmed my begrudgingly made decision to stay home. I’m sharing that article here for those that are stuck in the Denver Metro area and desperate to get on the water, like I am. I hope it helps you feel better about following the rules that will help us all in the long run.
Until we get the all-clear, support your local fly shops and guides by buying gift cards and whatever supplies you need online. Or visit our Partners page and support one of those business in the same way.
Stay Strong. Stay Safe. We’ll be back on the water in due time.
Mike Myers