[Sent from Jess yesterday midday…]
AM:
It’s my third morning here in Ryabaga and we are all running like mad getting ready for the first client helicopter to arrive in two hours. Most certainly I’ve hit the ground running and am well on my way learning the names of 40-odd staff; most of whom don’t speak any (or precious little) English.
Needless to say, I am picking up some Russian.
It’s cold; low 50s Fahrenheit; overcast and cold. Had a rain shower last night which made for good fishing for some of the guides who chose to make a late run on the river. The PINRO biologist in camp says the estimated number of fish in the river right now is about 50,000; records show the historical average to be between 25-30,000. Water is still very high – dark and cold, but it looks to be shaping up to be a promising season.
So far the experience has been a stellar one. I have not had my camera out nearly as much as I want to but as the season goes on and I learn the camp and my job I plan to make it my fifth appendage. I’m used to having photography be my only job and it’s a bit mad trying to capture camp on a camera and assist in management.
It’s a good challenge.
PM:
Finally had a chance to spend some time down by the river tonight; the guests all opted to fish in the camp’s “Home Pool”; a promising section of river an easy walk from camp. It’s still blustery and cool but the sun peeked through for a few minutes and warmed us all up.
Although the water is still high the guides have been having some luck themselves fishing from the boats, and one of the guests had a little luck tonight.
I have had my first glimpse of an Atlantic Salmon.
And spey casting.
All I can say is, it’s going to be a very good summer.
