“How’s the fishing been?” My question to a guide new to me, Maddie. Maddie guides out of my favorite fly shop in beautiful Jackson Hole, WY. “It’s been slow. The fish aren’t eating.” Maddie said. Maddie is a super nice, 23-year-old guide from Alaska. I met Maddie in the fly shop. She was there on a day off, after a long stretch of days on the water.Maddie looked a bit tired, not unusual for this time in the season. Maddie looked a bit like my younger sister, the perfect reason to hire a guide!
A wry smile crept across my face. There was a certain twinkle in my eye. My mind drifted back to meeting a wonderful man about a dozen years ago. That man’s name was Art. He was the grandfather of my Indiana partner. Good fortune smiled on me the day I met Art.
Art was the type of man that you like from the moment you meet him. He was friendly and kind, quick with a smile. Art was in his 90s when we met. When we were introduced by my partner, I was introduced as someone who had just begun fly fishing. A warm smile came to Art’s face upon learning of newfound interest. His eyes sparkled as you could see his reminiscing of days gone by, with a rod in his hand. There was little doubt that he had great passion for fishing. Then he spoke with a gentle voice, “Where have you been fishing?” He was genuinely interested in knowing about my experience with a rod, and he patiently listened. The most recent experiences were shared. Art must have known how green I was. He gently shared some helpful hints. I could feel his passion for the sport. I sensed he would like to feel the tug on his line once more. In those few moments we shared a passion. The deep nature of which remained unspoken. Art touched me in a deep way, almost mystical. He seemed to know the great affection awakening in me would be life-changing.
My focus came back to the present time. My respect for the time Art spent with me. Kindly, I said, “We are going to think a little differently about fishing today. We know the fish are eating. They are just eating something different than they have been seeing from all the anglers over the last 4 weeks. It got easy. They have seen too many hoppers. Let’s try something different. Let’s throw some Flying Ants at them. I will show you where some fish are.” The gentleness of my voice came from the passion that I feel for the sport. The respect for those who took time to teach me. I wanted to take the time to share my passion for fly fishing. The same way Art had done for me. I borrowed a few flies from Art, passion, respect, gentleness, and kindness. These are the attractors, like a Stone Fly for a trout.
We had a great day on the water. We caught a lot of trout. Maddie was awesome. Attitude counts. Thanks Art!
…as for the markets. A few bumps over the next 6 weeks. Preparation has already been contemplated. And we are in a good place. I think the Federal Reserve will reduce rates in September. Smoother water later in the fall.
Enjoy the day...R2
This is not a specific recommendation. Each individual needs to consult their financial advisor, for specific recommendations. Your financial advisor knows your situation, and risk tolerance. They are best suited to make individual recommendations for you.