That time of year has finally arrived – the promise of spring is in the air, taunting mountainfolk, a hint of the summer to come. And, as all too often happens in the north country, there are days when the approach of spring is delayed by a late, last blast of winter. Snow, rain, wind, and cold weather make everyone a little moody when spring is nearing. After six months of cold, snow-covered existence, residents are more than ready for some sunshine and green grass!
We tend to make the best of what is given us, though. Montanans know that spring will indeed inevitably come and some of us act like it is already here. It’s not uncommon on a cold spring day to see die-hards out in tee-shirts, baggies, and Tevas; staunchly refusing to acknowledge the freezing temperatures outside.
Strolling around Missoula lately; I have noticed several signs of spring’s arrival. Sure, the grass is showing signs of greening, but locals tend to judge the weather by if the Clark Fork River, running through town, is off color (as shown in the picture from yesterday afternoon). Rain, wind, and cold weather don’t discourage the local kayakers, either. They simply gear up in dry suits and hit the “sweet spots” as the water level rises slightly.
Neighbors pull out the smokers and begin to smoke the early season fish that have been caught; knowing that soon there will be a plethora of more fish. Anglers begin to stock up on the summer favorites – I met a man buying 40+ grasshoppers the other day in a local shop. When I asked about his purchase, he simply said that he was “getting ready for that time” and expressed a wish to avoid any delays at all once the grasshopper season came. Locals buy fly tying materials, making use of the bad weather to tie some dries, trusting in the fact that the future will bring warm weather and good fishing.
You know you live in Montana when a late spring snow is viewed not as a nuisance, but as the coming summer’s water.
Tags: Women in Fly Fishing
