I've gotten a few entries for this blog's first fishing photo contest, and I'm delighted -- and a little jealous -- of all the artistic talent out there.
I plan to create a photo album of all entries, and you'll find it -- in a day or two -- in the column right next to my blog babblings.
Here's a shot from my surfer/fly angler friend Craig Sako, who lives, surfs and casts flies in Oahu:
Craig Sako sent in this shot of a small, perfect Hawaiian smallmouth bass.
Yeah, that's a little Hawaiian smallmouth bass! I think I know where it is from on Oahu, but Craig hasn't yet told me the exact details. I'm going to keep chipping away on that little project.... Some of you may recall Craig's photo of an Oahu bonefish in an earlier post.
I suspect Oahu is full of surprises....
A lot of people think Oahu is all about Honolulu, but it is actually one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands, as most of this paradise is gorgeous countryside. I think the North Shore of Oahu is one of the most stunning spots on this planet.
Oahu also has the world's best surf breaks, saltwater flats fishing for bonefish -- really! -- and perfect little smallmouth bass finning around in secret spots.
I love this shot because it shows how tiny fish can be so beautiful and perfect.
Anyway, on to this shot, which is from Dan Page. Dan didn't tell me where he was from or the name of this gorgeous river in some deep woods, but I'm sure he'll send that information along in a day or two.
It will probably arrive while I'm creeping around and casting Blue Winged Olive Sparkle Duns on Oregon's Deschutes River this weekend.
Dan Page e-mailed in this shot of a majestic river that looks as though it swarms with steelhead.
Anyway, Dan's shot perfectly captures the mystery and beauty of a flowing river. I don't know about you, but I have a deep need to learn what kind of fish swim around in that alluring water.
Well, there are most shots to share, but I'll hold off for a few more days. All of you have until April 15 to send ONE photo to [email protected].
Yes, there are terrific prizes:
First place wins a selection of 12 of my favorite Puget Sound sea-run cutthroat trout flies -- OR 5 bars of cold-water surfboard wax.
Second place wins a selection of 6 of my favorite Puget Sound sea-run cutthroat flies -- OR 3 bars of cold-water surfboard wax.
Third place wins three sea-run cutt flies OR 1 measly bar of surfboard wax.
Any shot that has water or anglers or fish or all three qualifies for the contest. I'm not looking for anything in particular -- except beauty.
I'll create the Fishing Photo Contest album on Friday or Saturday, so get your entries in. I've finally mastered the arcane art of downloading photos, so start pawing through shots and send in ONE.
Finally, many thanks to all of you who are making my blog a part of your day. I've been an outdoor writer for years, and I can't imagine frittering away my career -- such as it is -- on anything else. This blog is a labor of love for me, and I hope you share it with friends and the people you love.
