Читать книгу Fly Fishing Central & Southeastern Oregon - Harry Teel - Страница 8

I am very fortunate in many ways. In relation to fly fishing, I’m fortunate that I was born in Oregon, and that my father and his friends introduced me to fly fishing at a very early age. These circumstances allowed me to pursue trout, steelhead, and salmon fishing nearly continuously for the better part of 65 years.

Fly fishing has been an important part of these 65-plus years, as both a form of recreation and a business. There have been only two interruptions in my quest for full-time fishing. The first was my tour of duty in the South Pacific and China with the Marine Corp during World War II. The second was working for 30 years with CH2M Hill, Engineers. The latter was much more enjoyable than my first diversion from fly fishing. It also enabled me to support my wife and five robin-mouthed offspring. These years also provided me the opportunity to work in close association with the finest professional and technical people in engineering.

After retiring from CH2M Hill, and finding retirement somewhat boring, I opened The Fly Fisher’s Place, a fly shop in the central Oregon town of Sisters. Running the shop was a most interesting, enjoyable, and rewarding experience. It allowed me to meet hundreds of wonderful people, fish with new friends, travel, explore fishing opportunities in other locations, and fulfill my lifelong dream of being involved in fly fishing on a full-time basis. I’ve also been able to record my fly fishing adventures in Oregon and now, through this guidebook, can offer you the benefit of these years of fly fishing and note taking.

The central and southeast regions of Oregon, (the high desert region) are the origins of some of the most beautiful and pristine lakes and streams to be found anywhere in the world. Each region has its own distinct character and splendor. Old-growth forests of pine and fir bound some waters, while ancient junipers and desert vegetation surround others.

It is at times difficult to keep your concentration on casting your fly to a rising trout when the vistas beyond your quarry are the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Mountains, the desert’s wonderful rim rock canyons, or the sheer magnitude of Steens Mountain. The scenery is a photographer’s dream and a fly angler’s haven.

The central and southeast regions also offer many opportunities for solitude. In most areas a short walk will take you into territory that is nearly undisturbed by human endeavors. Taking a break in the high desert country is a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body.

I believe you’ll enjoy the fly fishing in this magnificent part of Oregon. More important, I think your fly fishing experiences in this area will always occupy a special place in your memory.

Harry Teel

Well-stocked fly boxes for fishing central Oregon’s high lakes. Photo by Brian O’Keefe.