your rod and let the weight drift and fall to the bottom again and again. The bouncing movement suspends your bait in the current and releases its juicy fragrance for the salmon to come by and take a bite. Unfortunately for us, the fish took little notice as we worked our first few ‘holes’ (places where fish like to hide). I grew in confidence, however, as Brandon guided me in perfecting the bounce with subtle corrections and a welcoming sense of humor.
My moment came at our fifth hole, a quiet forested bend in the river. After a couple bounces with fresh bait I felt a sharp tug; the hook set and my battle began. For what felt like an eternity (but actually only 10 minutes), my forearms blazed as I held the rod steady. “Keep fighting!” Brandon cheered, “Tire it out!” When we finally pulled it aboard, I dropped the rod with an audible ‘oof’, exhausted from the ordeal but feeling absolutely stoked. My first salmon! We posed with the catch and released it back to its home. I too returned home several hours later, exhilarated and rejuvenated from the experience. For over the day I learned that it’s not all about catching a fish - it’s about connecting to the river and the people we share it with. FIND YOUR GUIDE The Wild & Scenic Rogue River is teeming withopportunities for adventure! From small holes to legendary locations, the Heart of the Rogue is ready to invite you to discover its angler’s paradise. Begin your adventure with one of the many guides - and allow yourself to be swept away by the Rogue’s wonders! n
“As I rolled up to the boat ramp just past Shady Cove, fog still fresh in the air, I knew my fortune was about to change.”
15
November 2024 | The Business Review
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online