Fall Newsletter

      I am writing this note by candlelight with no power. We are in the middle of a huge winter storm with 80 to 100 mph winds, driving rain, and coastal flooding. The next several days will consist of cleanup, maintenance, and lots of woodcutting.
     We are all trying to relax, but the cat is frightened, and both humans are a little tense as well. So, here we are, weathering the storm of the century, and hanging out. The weather has been testing for most of the fall. There has been more wind this year than I can remember. We fought it a bunch down in tidewater, and several days on the river. It simply blew us off the water at times. Today, being no exception.
     There was a bunch of fish early in tidewater, but through most of that, there was no pattern. Mostly the bites were few and far between, making for some very tough days. Some with no takes at all. We all know who caught fish, and who didn't. Sorry guys! I did my best.
     For the last couple of weeks in October and into early November we did very well, with limits or near limits each day. Then the rain came. It was like 40 days, and 40 nights all over again. In fact, it was the wettest month in history. Right in the middle of the peak season. We didn't fish for weeks, and moved a bunch of trips. Perfect!
     The rain and wind is now back, but for a while, we had a break. The river was full of fish. All about average size, but nice and bright, and good biters. For the remainder of most of the season we did very well. There was a few days when the river was really fluctuating, putting them off. For the most part, it was good fishing.
     For the majority of the season, we had the normal crew. We did get to see some new faces, and have hopefully added some new members to our family. As for now, we are looking forward to some breaks in the weather, and Steelhead season. Steelhead season and the New Year should be a good one. With some interesting developments I'm sure.
     Eat a bunch, drink lots, and we will see each and every one of you soon. Just as long as we survive the night. Wish you were here to see it. Has this weather been crazy or what? As an update to the end of the newsletter, we had winds in excess of 100 mph. We have been without power for three days. Seems most of the Oregon Coast was blasted and also without power. We hope to be online soon. On a finishing note, Steelhead are showing up. As soon as the rivers come into shape, let the adventures begin. Hopefully, you are with me.

See you then,
Jesse Zalonis