The Prodigal Son

by Shane Rickert on May 20, 2015

in Fish Stories

Many of you loyal ChiWulff readers may have noticed my absence over the last couple months here on the blog. Last October, I made a quick move to Traverse City, Michigan. I lost my job in Bozeman, the girlfriend moved there and the fishing can be world class. Well…. I find myself this morning waiting on my ride for my second trip, back to back, on the famed Smith River.

DSC_0030

You’re not here to read sappy heartbreak stories so I’ll let you guess what happened between the girlfriend and I.

DSC_9969

I’ve been back in Bozeman for a touch over two weeks now and it’s been a whirlwind of an adventure:

  • Flew in on Wednesday the 6th. Fished the Lower with Jake and Ken
  • Thursday: Upper Madison with Ethan and Ken
  • Friday: Some sort of a “rest day”
  • Saturday/Sunday: Camping on the Mo with Jake
  • Monday: Henry’s Fork with Ken
  • Tuesday: Left for 6 nights on the Smith
  • This Wednesday (20th): Leaving for another 5 nights on the Smith

DSC_0097 DSC_0063

I’ve spent more time on a sleeping pad than a bed. Am I complaining? Hell no!

Leaving Montana certainly made me realize lots of things. I don’t need to list them all out to know that it feels good to be back home.

DSC_9800

DSC_0131

DSC_9940

DSC_9921

DSC_9931

DSC_9563