As I look back on 2014, I'd say it was a great year overall, with some challenges and great adventures. Though the fishing could have been improved, I'd say the worst was the weather. It was the worst I've experienced in years. More rain and heavy thunder storms this past summer than I've had in the last three summers combined. But it became an adventure wondering when my tent and I were going to get blown away.
Outside of dodging weather, the fishing seemed to come in bunches. From our frozen opening weekend to Spring steelhead, we moved fish but never in numbers. And when we did, it always in small windows of time. Our annual trip to Sturgeon Bay produced some great fish, but also more boats than I've ever seen before. Throughout the year it seemed like it was feast or famine, but when the fishing was good, it produced some great fish.
When I think of the highlights, I have some people to thank. This past year I was able to get to spend some quality time on the water with some outstanding guys. I learned a lot and had some great photo opportunities. Austin Adduci from Grab Your Fly Charters, Steve Martinez from STM Outfitters, Kyle Zempel from Black Earth Angling Co., Jeremy Spaccapaniccia from DuPage Fly Fishing Co., and good ol' Stuart Van Dorn - all were great company and we shared some great stories.
Thanks to all who have made these last few months possible. It's been a fun adventure thus far and a great end to the year. I've been able to get some great late year fishing in with Austin and Steve which helped me break the curse of my new waders. As I look to 2015 I'm excited to see where this blog takes me and keep finding time to get on the water with all the great people I've been meeting along the way.
