"One thing becomes clearer as one gets older and one's fishing experience increases, and that is the paramount importance of one's fishing companions"  John Ashley-Cooper

Changing flies on a spring creek

I recently returned from an amazing trip with the best group of fishing companions ever!  I was traveling with women I have met through my association with Casting for Recovery.  Casting for Recovery offers weekend retreats that provide fly fishing instruction, medical education, and psychological support to breast cancer patients and survivors.  When I first volunteered for CFR, I thought it sounded like a good idea...but I did not fully grasp the power and magic of fly fishing.  I have come to understand what another volunteer has said: "a lot of healing happens on the water".    The peaceful natural surroundings, the graceful movements of the rod and line, and focus on the fly are (sometimes) punctuated by the excitement of actually catching a fish.  When the beautiful fish are released back into the water, a sense of both awe and accomplishment remains.  As the fish swims away, it is hard not to feel--at least for that moment--that all is right with the universe.

Fish On! We fished in gorgeous locations in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho and made new friends along the way.  As the least experienced angler in the group, I observed my more seasoned companions and guides:  it appears that the wonder of fly fishing does not get old!  I am so incredibly fortunate to have been introduced to this sport by people who have generously shared their knowledge (and flies).  People who have taken me fishing, and experienced sympathetic joy at my success.