Special, special thanks and props to three guys who selflessly gave three fly fishermen from Missouri a three day introduction to Michigan’s Muskegon River and its Chinook salmon fishery! Long time Schrems West Michigan Trout Unlimited member and bamboo rod maker, Ron Barch, along with his neighbor and buddy Bob Oster of Jenison Public Schools choral fame, made possible a guided float trip from yours truly for Tim, Drew, and Scott, who bought the trip at a Missouri TU fund raising auction earlier this year. Lodging? No problem; Ron’s dear friend George, who owns an amazing cabin on Muskegon opened his place to the men. Dinner? Well, that’s Bob’s forte. A gourmet cook in his own right, Bob presented the guys and the rest of us with an extraordinary dining experience, topped off by his wife Joni’s homemade cake. I had the privilege of guiding Tim, Drew, and Scott—accomplished fly casters all—for two days and loved every minute of it. The entire experience reminded me of how fly fishing brings together selfless people who give of themselves for the benefit of cold water fisheries, all the while making friendships long remembered and valued. Hats off to you Ron, Bob, and George; you truly exemplify sharing the best our sport, resources, and good will has to offer. Here, I hold one of Tim’s newfound Michigan friends. The second photo is of the three guys, and the third is Bob (on the left) and Ron having lunch on my boat during one of our past float trips together. (George, I’m sorry I didn’t think to snap a pic of you, but knowing how self-effacing you are, you probably wouldn’t have let me take it!)
Captain Tom Kuieck
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