Blue Ridge Beauties

[Forrest Allen]

For those who appreciate the magnificent beauty of Brook Trout, and the great challenge of hiking off the beaten path to find them:

Whenever we anglers look at a map and see a body of water, we run through a list the species we might expect to find there. As the water gets smaller, so does the list, and so does access. When we get to a point where the human footprint disappears (other than logging trails from half a century ago), we feel at ease, as if it is where we are supposed to be. Then we attempt to connect with nature in a more special way, by imitating creatures to find what lives beneath the surface of the mountain streams. Every time a brook trout graces me with a glimpse, I am in awe of its beauty, and impressed by its determination to survive in the tiniest of holes. So many of these fish wisely chose to make their homes far away from frequently trafficked areas, of which I hold great envy. These tougher spots often prove quite rewarding, because the trout are able to live and grow for years without being constantly pestered or removed from their home. I doubt their allure and challenge will ever fade. They've got me hooked more than I do them!

I wanted to share a couple of photos from the past couple of months on various streams through Shenandoah which took a bit of extra effort to discover and get to. Of course, the reward is well worth it. For scale, my hands are 8.5 inches from wrist to finger tip. Enjoy the pictures, and good luck finding gold on your next expedition. Forrest

[Danny Barrett]

great pics. always love a good brookie trip.  

Thanks,

Dan Barrett

dannyt...@gmail.com

(540)-222-8064

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[arthur noglak]

Great post Forrest! That was very well written. I think you have inspired me to go out and discover some new water. I have not gone out strictly for brookies in quite somtime and I think I have forgotten how much fun it is to get lost in thought on a small stream.

Thanks,

Art

[Andrew Sarcinello]

Forrest, I just saw this - great write-up and pics!  That one stream is really, really small - and if any of those big brookies came out of there, you have found a true gem of a small stream.

[Justin Schiavone]

Dang.. Great post dude!! Me too Art, I'm looking up some small brook trout streams as we speak.

Tight lines TPFR

Js