Montana Woods N Water August 2016 Print Edition | Page 24

FLY FISHING CONTINUED
Every time, my response was the same: side pressure with
the rod, applied in the opposite direction to his movement.
A trout that is glued to the bottom is relying on its planed
pectoral fins for leverage. Side pressure neutralizes that
advantage, and ends the fight quicker.
There is nothing sporting about playing a big fish to
exhaustion. These days, when water temperatures alone can
stress a big fish, getting them in quickly is a big part of being
able to release them safely and humanely so they can
reproduce their magnificent kind and thrive as a magnificent
part of our wildlife heritage – like those trout Jan landed on
the Blackfoot.
Finally, when the fish gets to the net, don’t panic.
The rule, close to the net, if you really want to land the fish,
is this: If it wants to leave, let it. The runs away from the net
will get shorter, and you just might eventually land it if you
can keep your cool up close.

Two grizzled old veterans...of the angling wars.

Like everything else I’ve said thus far, easier said than done. That’s why it’s fun. All photos supplied by Chuck Stranahan

Sportsman’s Meditation Continued From Page 13:
A few days later, Richard, the wily retiree, approached them again as they drummed their way down the street. 'Look,' he said,
'I haven't received my Social Security check yet, so I'm not going to be able to give you more than 25 cents. Will that be
okay?' 'Only a lousy quarter?' the drum leader exclaimed. 'If you think we're going to waste our time, beating these cans
around for a quarter, you're nuts! No way, mister. We quit!' Richard, the wise old man, enjoyed peace and tranquility for the
rest of his days. Wisdom brought peace!
Wisdom and knowledge, are related but not synonymous. The dictionary defines wisdom as “the ability to discern or judge
what is true, right, or lasting.” Knowledge, on the other hand, is “information gained through experience, reasoning, or
acquaintance.” Knowledge can exist without wisdom, but not the other way around. One can be knowledgeable without being
wise. Knowledge is knowing how to use a gun; wisdom is knowing when to use it and when to keep it holstered.
How can I get Wisdom! Just Ask!
James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be
given to you.”
It’s not the situation but our lack of Wisdom that creates our instability. Knowledge understands the light has turned red;
wisdom applies the brakes. Knowledge sees the quicksand; wisdom walks around it. Knowledge memorizes the Ten
Commandments; wisdom obeys them. Knowledge learns of God; wisdom loves Him. Knowledge knows of “Montana Woods
and Water” Wisdom reads it. Ask for it. He will give it!!!! Keep livin the life. Pastor Jim. Adapted from a sermon by Chuck
Standeford.
"The power to tax involves the power to destroy" Supreme Court Justice, John Marshall (1755-1835)

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