Shop Life Archives - Page 19 of 21

Welcome Spring 2018

Early Spring on the Missouri River – photo by Luke Koerten

Today we celebrate the first day of spring. The weather is right on cue with blue skies, sunshine and 50’s today. We’ll see temps near 60 tomorrow and Thursday but don’t put away the cold weather gear just yet.

Those in the know are calling for below average temps and above average precipitation for the next four to six weeks so expect the unexpected and be prepared for all weather conditions if you plan to join us on the Missouri this spring.

And speaking of spring…our spring lodging and guide trip special is definitely getting noticed. It’s a deal you’re not going to want to miss out on. $550 for two nights of premium lodging in one of our cabins or bungalows and a full day guide trip with some of the best guides on the Missouri River.

There are plenty of deals being offered out there right now. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, can touch this one! Prime dates are going fast, don’t miss this opportunity. Don’t need the lodging? Spring Special trip rates are just $400 for a full day for one or two anglers.

Things are still pretty quiet around here but you can definitely feel a pulse returning. A few more boats on the water, a few more folks hanging around the shop, boxes of new product showing up daily and a steady stream of phone calls and emails…the season is underway and will soon be shifting into high gear.

Two weeks from Thursday Izaak’s will be open and then it will really feel like the season has begun. In the meantime, Shotgun Annie’s has been doing a great job of keeping people fed and hydrated all winter long and they will continue to do so. They’re currently serving breakfast, lunch and dinner every day but Monday. It’s been awesome having a reliable restaurant open in Wolf Creek this winter. The food is great, the service is friendly and it’s just nice to be able to sit at that bar again, even though it bears little resemblance to the Frenchman of old.

We’re busy finishing up a couple of remodeling projects in our motel units and plan to have those rooms available sometime the first week of April (weather depending). The cabins should all be open by next week so we’ll have no problem accommodating all of you who are looking to cash in on the best deal on the river.

Look for lots of shiny new items in the shop and don’t miss out on great deals on winter wear as we clear the racks to make room for spring and summer gear.

Yes, spring is here. The fishing is good and getting better every day, the weather is showing glimpses of what’s to come and we can’t wait to see all of you back on the MO’.

We are your Full Service Missouri River fly fishing destination with everything you need from lodging to guides to gear to boat rentals and much more.

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-03-20T18:11:17-06:00March 20th, 2018|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: fly fishing, Missouri River, Montana, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|3 Comments

Ramps are in rough shape right now….use extreme caution when launching or taking out

The wait is over….we’re finally looking at some fishable weather for the week ahead. We’re looking at a high of 33 today with light and variable south winds increasing to 9-11 mph later today.

Conditions on the water couldn’t be more perfect but before you hook up the drift boat and come out for a late February float be aware that the conditions on the boat ramps are far from ideal.

Blowing and drifting snow have made a mess of things and as temps warm and the snow begins to melt expect icy conditions to prevail.

A quick tour of the Holter Dam, Wolf Creek Bridge and Craig launches this morning confirmed the reports we’ve heard from the past couple of days. If you’re going to float come prepared with plenty of rope and don’t expect a conventional launch or take out.

If ramp conditions are in any way sketchy or questionable DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BACK DOWN THE RAMP! Four Wheel Drive is great but don’t expect it to do much for you on an icy ramp. We see it every year, four wheel drives stuck on the ramp. Best case scenario you’ll need someone to pull you up the ramp, worse case scenario you’ll end up sliding your vehicle into the river along with your boat and trailer which is NOT the way you want to start or end your day.

When floating in the winter or spring it’s always a good idea to keep a rope in your rig, in fact it’s ALWAYS recommended you have a rope in your rig, why wouldn’t you? I keep 150′ of 3/4″ nylon braided rope in mine at all times and keep another 100′ in my boat.

The majority of the ramps on the MO’ are not steep but they are steep enough to be a problem!

All you need to do is back your trailer as close to the top of the ramp as you can safely get, attach the rope to the bow eye of your boat, dump the boat onto the ramp using your winch and strap and then unhook the strap and rope your boat down the ramp to the water. Again, most of these ramps aren’t steep but it’s a good idea to wrap the rope around the back of your trailer frame to keep the boat from getting away from you.

Launching is the easy part! Maybe the ramp you launched at was clear, maybe you just dumped the boat on the ramp and slid it down without using a rope (not recommended). What if you get to your take out and you can’t safely back down the ramp to retrieve your boat? Now what?

It’s easy to slide your boat down an icy or snow covered ramp. Pushing or pulling your boat up a ramp? Not so much!

Without a rope you could be in for trouble. The best way to retrieve your boat is to again back your trailer as close to the ramp as you can safely get, attach your rope to the bow eye of your boat and tie the other end of the boat to your trailer. Pull forward as far as you need to drag the boat safely to level ground and then back up to the boat and load it on your trailer with your winch and strap.

When pulling your boat up a ramp with a rope tell your fishing partners to stand clear and try to do it all in one smooth motion without repeatedly stopping and starting. Herky Jerky = Broken Ropes. Broken Ropes = A bad way to end your day.

You should have no problem with most of the ramps using these methods, though I would definitely avoid Mountain Palace and the Dearborn Launch for the time being. A couple of sunny warm days will go a long way in improving things. The Wolf Creek Bridge ramp is on it’s way to being clear though it looks like someone backed down it recently and came perilously close to the edge of the ramp. I would recommend sliding your boat down for the time being. Just because there are tire tracks on the ramp it doesn’t mean it’s safe.

The Holter and Craig launches are definitely in slide/rope condition and from what I’ve heard conditions down river aren’t much better. I’ll probably take a run down river today and check them all out, which incidentally is never a bad call if you have time to do it prior to your float. The shops will generally have a pretty good idea of conditions but it’s always best to check for yourself to avoid any end of day unexpected surprises at the take out.

Spring is rapidly approaching. The fish are hungry after this long, cold winter which means it’s about to get really good out there. There’s no reason you shouldn’t be here fishing it, just please use common sense when you do.

Stay Safe !

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-02-26T17:23:59-07:00February 26th, 2018|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: Craig MT, Holter Dam, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|1 Comment

Wintering in Wolf Creek

I often get asked the question what do you do in the winter?

I think there’s a misconception out there amongst some that if you work in the Montana fly fishing industry then you must spend your winters in exotic tropical destinations, living on all of that money you made during the season, roaming the flats in search of tarpon and permit and bonefish and sipping on pina coladas on the beaches at night as you await the return of spring time in Montana.

I’m not saying there aren’t those who actually do this but I sure haven’t figured out how to pull it off.

It’s true that Wolf Creek and Craig are transformed into near ghost towns during the long winter months. There are plenty of days during the dead of winter we won’t see a customer come through the door so why even stay open?

It’s a good question, and one I often ask myself as I’m white knuckling it out to Wolf Creek from Helena. The answer is that there’s a little more to it than selling flies and telling lies in the shop. What goes on behind the counter is much more than ringing up sales. All the product hanging on the walls and all of the flies sitting in the bins don’t just magically appear. Someone has to order all of it, trying not to order too much (or too little). Someone has to figure out what (and how much) we should carry based on predicting what will sell during the coming season.

Someone has to negotiate favorable terms with vendors to maximize profitability and go to battle with reps to try to bring in more of what you expect and demand from your Missouri River fly shop.

Someone has to write blog posts and maintain social media.

How about lodging and guide trips? The rooms and boats obviously don’t book themselves. Those summer mornings with a parking lot full of guide rigs and those nights of a full house of happy clients relaxing on the decks telling fish stories over cocktails all start behind this counter at this keyboard in the dead of winter. Someone takes those calls, answers those emails and books and confirms those reservations.

And speaking of lodging, it’s our intention to continuously improve on all levels but we’ve made a truly dedicated commitment from the start to tackle major lodging improvements as time and money allow. Someone has to make those improvements and they can’t be made during the season.

In each of these cases that someone just happens to be me. Of course I have some help, especially with the lodging improvements as a handy man I am not, but the long and short of it is there are plenty of things to be done during the winter months. And while much of this could be done remotely from elsewhere, there remains an amazing fishery here year round so why wouldn’t we be here to provide winter anglers with everything they need for winter fishing on the Missouri?

Along those lines, why wouldn’t we be here to enjoy this amazing river all winter long when we can have it virtually to ourselves on any given day?

For the past three winters we’ve kept limited lodging open to provide a place to stay for those braving the cold and fishing the river and in doing so we’ve become a destination for hard water anglers from around the region who come to fish Holter Lake. Our lodging has been full more weekends than not this winter which has been a pleasant and much welcomed surprise. Obviously things are a little lean during the winter so we’re thankful for anything we can generate to help offset heating and other operational costs incurred during the offseason.

Consequently, when people stay rooms need to be cleaned and while we’ve been busy enough this winter to warrant some help with housekeeping, I’ve spent more than a couple of days cleaning rooms and doing laundry. Just another aspect of living the dream!

So what do I do in the winter? I do the same thing I do the other three seasons of the year, I run my business (and try to not let it run me). Wolf Creek Angler is a living, breathing, ever-growing, ever improving outfitter owned and operated business. It is my life’s dream and it is the way I feed my family. This ain’t no hobby shop, this is how I make a living.

Come see us this winter at Wolf Creek Angler, we’d love to have you as our guest.

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-02-08T19:08:27-07:00February 8th, 2018|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: Craig MT, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Montana, montana fly shops, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|4 Comments

Game On – Photo by Jim Murray

Mild conditions persist as January draws to a close.

River traffic remains surprisingly light and while our lodging has been extremely busy this month, the majority of those staying have been ice guys who’ve been cleaning up on the perch on Holter.

Speaking of lodging, we’re full for the remainder of this week but next week looks like continued nice weather with highs near 50 on Monday. We should see a gradual increase in river traffic from here on out so if fishing the Missouri is on your to do list then make that call today and book your lodging and/or guide trips. Weekends have been booking up generally by Monday or Tuesday.

Waiting for our spring special? The wait is over.

Spring may be two months away but the WCA Spring Special is here! $550 for two nights lodging and a full day guide trip now through the end of April. There are other deals out there…nobody, and I mean NOBODY can touch this one! It’s the BEST DEAL on the MO hands down and the best part is you don’t have to wait until spring. As if that weren’t enough there are NO CANCELLATION FEES for these trips. Book today, if the weather turns or if you simply change your mind you’re off the hook.

If you’re looking for a guide trip this weekend we won’t be able to do the lodging but we’ll do the trip for $400. Guides are getting HUNGRY. Book the best today.

Spring merchandise is starting to trickle in, look for great deals on winter gear soon as we make room for the new.

Good reports from the ice, decent reports from the river though the wind has been ever-present lately making things a little unpleasant out there. Expect more of that the next several days and deal with it. Nymphing has been good, definitely better on some days than others. Status quo on the bugs. Streamer fishing has not disappointed. Strip or Swing…the choice is yours. Midges in small numbers but that will ramp up soon if you’re itching for dry fly action.

Don’t forget to stop by the shop if you’re out here this weekend. We are your Missouri River Winter fly fishing one stop shop with everything you need for your day on the water. Shuttles, hand warmers, cold weather gear from Simms, the largest selection of Redington gear on the river, Adipose and RO drift boat rentals (including a brand new Project Healing Waters Adipose Flow free to all vets and active duty military) and the near legendary largest selection of Missouri River flies ever assembled under one roof in Wolf Creek Montana.

We’ve also got a few tickets left for Tuesday’s Fly Fishing Film Tour in Helena. Get yours before they’re gone!

By Jason Orzechowski|2018-01-24T20:21:13-07:00January 24th, 2018|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: dry fly fishing, fly fishing, Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T), midge, Missouri River, Missouri River Spring Special Guide Rates, Missouri River Winter Fishing, Redington, running line, spring fishing, Streamer Fishing, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

December Beckons

November’s early winter blast pretty much shut things down on the Missouri and for whatever reason folks stayed away for most of the month despite plenty of very fishable days. Sure the wind has howled seemingly more often than not which is less than ideal but by late fall standards it really hasn’t been bad.

If you’ve closed the book on the 2017 season it may be time to reconsider.

December has thus far brought mild temps and a lack of precipitation which is not great in the grand scheme but which should have you thinking late fall fishing on the MO’.

Traffic will remain light as many are occupied with holiday preparations and celebrations which means you could have this thing virtually to yourself for the rest of 2017.

The weather is unseasonably warm, the fishing is good, the traffic is light and the deals on lodging and guide trips are too good to pass up.

Why not treat yourself or someone you love to an early Christmas present. Two nights of lodging and a full day guide trip for just $500. You won’t find a better deal anywhere. Nobody can touch this one!

We’ve got plenty of guides and rooms available all month long so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Sure we’re offering this deal all winter long but sooner or later we will actually get winter weather which will challenge even the most hard core anglers.

The short term forecast looks more like October than December so what are you waiting for? Book yourself a room and a guide or just grab your gear, stock up on firebeads and everything pink and come out for the day.

We’re stocked up with the best selection of winter bugs in Wolf Creek and everything you need for your day on the water. Shuttles, Simms cold weather gear, RO and Adipose drift boat rentals (including our Project Healing Waters Adipose FREE to all vets and active duty military personnel) and plenty of great gift ideas so you can get your holiday shopping done while you are here.

Just want the guide trip without lodging? Only $350 all winter long.

Just looking for a bed? We’ve got you covered with cozy cabins and bungalows for just $99. All of our available units have full kitchens and private baths and sleep two to three comfortably. Cook for yourself or check out Shotgun Annie’s. The food is good, the service is friendly and we’re thrilled to have them here!

Wolf Creek is the place to be this winter on the MO’.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-06T16:51:55-07:00December 6th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: Adipose, Christmas, Missouri River, Missouri River Winter Fishing, RO Drift Boats, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

11 Days Left -Wolf Creek Angler Holiday Gift Guide

Time is running out!

If you haven’t finished your Christmas shopping you need to get after it. Christmas is a week from Monday so stop procrastinating and get it done. We ran this a couple of weeks ago but just in case you need some last minute ideas for the fly fishers on your list here it is again.

To assist you we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite gift ideas. If you don’t see something here that fits the bill we would LOVE to help you find that perfect gift for the anglers on your list. And don’t forget we’ve got WCA Gift Cards in any amount which can be used on anything we sell from lodging to guide trips to shuttles to merchandise.

Simms Cold Weather Shirt $99.95

Just because the leaves are falling and the days are shorter, it doesn’t mean the fish aren’t biting. Set out into the chill of the river in warm, plush comfort with the Simms’ men’s ColdWeather LS Shirt. The quick-drying shirt is made with a soft fleece lining ideal for winter fishing. Two oversized chest pockets offer plenty of storage for your fly boxes. The stylish flannel shirt is finished with UPF 50 sun protection.

This is my absolute favorite shirt from September through March. You won’t find a more comfortable, cozy shirt for those cold fall and winter days. Everybody should have at least one!

Stanley WCA Classic Vacuum Growler and Blackfoot River Brewing Company Beer $59.00

What’s that call echoing throughout the land, bouncing off mountains and tumbling through valleys? “Cold beer, and lots of it!” the armies of the thirsty cry out. Rising to the call for cold, fresh beer, the 64oz Classic Vacuum Growler lets you transport your favorite brew in fully functional and iconic style. Take control with a rugged handle for easy carry and one-handed pouring. The wide mouth allows for quick filling, sharing, and cleaning. That satisfying ‘pop’ you hear when you open this bad boy is a sure sign your beer is fresh and bubbly. It ain’t Grandad’s old vacuum bottle, but he’ll raise his pint in admiration. You might just have to top him off.

After extensive field testing by the WCA staff we have concluded that this is the best value in growlers you’ll find. A 64 oz vacuum growler for under $60 and your first fill free at Blackfoot River Brewing Company in Helena…you’d be hard pressed to find a better deal anywhere.

Korkers DarkHorse Wading Boots $179.99

A remastered classic from the optimal traction brand; the DarkHorse is not a one trick pony. Made for the angler that can’t compromise weight and durability
for function.

Traction: OmniTrax® Interchangeable Sole System adapts your traction to any fishing condition.

Closure System: BOA® M2 lacing system for quick on/off and custom fit.

Fast Drying: Hydrophobic upper material with ultra abrasion resistance and tonal camo pattern.

Durability: Molded TPU Toe Cap for durability and toe bump protection and protected stitching for prolonged thread life.

Internal Drainage: Water flows thru internal channels then out midsole ports, removing excess water and weight.

Echo Ion Reel $79.99

Maintenance-free disc drag with low start-up resistance
Easy Left to Right-Hand Retrieve Change
Backlash-free, instant drag reaction
Positive position click drag knob
Incoming/outgoing audible click
Durable alloy construction
Large arbor spool design for fast line pickup and low line memory
Warranty: 12 Month Limited Warranty
With a large arbor for quick retrieves and a hybrid machined/cast design, the Ion is a great choice for balancing single-hand and two-hand rods of all sizes. Designed primarily for freshwater use, they can be used in the salt with a little additional care. Six sizes make sure that there is an Ion reel to suit your fishing situation.

Our best selling reel, the Ion is an incredible value at under $80.

Simms Cold Weather Pant $99.95

Enjoy winter weather without the sting in Simms’ Men’s Coldweather Pants. The DurapelPlus® durable water-resistant finish on 100% nylon coupled with COR3™ technology blocks water penetration and harmful sun rays with a UPF rating of 50, all while controlling odors. A textured 100% polyester microfleece lining retains valuable body heat. Slash handwarmer pockets with self-fabric abrasion panels protect hands from the bitter cold. Adjustable waist with plastic center-front snap fits comfortably for long wear. Double-layered, articulated knees for durability and ease of movement. Traditional fit.

The perfect companion to the Cold Weather Shirt, you’ll find me wearing these pants all winter long!

Smith Optics Guide’s Choice Glasses $219.00

The Guide’s Choice has been reimagined to exceed the needs of our most demanding customers. Incorporating our most advanced eyewear technologies, this style boasts wide temples and an aggressive wrap for superior light protection. Add to that premium Italian spring hinges, megol nose and temple pads, a detachable sunglass leash, and premium 8-base ChromaPop™ and Techlite glass lenses, the Guide’s Choice is engineered for those that truly believe in the life outside walls.

Redington Path Combo $199.99

The new PATH rod is a smooth-casting, medium-fast action graphite fly rod, offering classic performance for all levels of anglers. Rods through 6 weight have a half-wells handle with a wood reel seat for a classic look and feel, and 7 weights and above feature a full-wells grip with anodized aluminum reel seat that is ready for salt or fresh water conditions.
All water, medium-fast action rod
Wooden reel seats on rods weights through 6 weight models
Durable anodized aluminum reel seat on rods 7 weight and above
Alignment dots for easy rod setup
Durable cordura rod tube with built in rod dividers
Combo includes: PATH rod, CROSSWATER reel pre-spooled with RIO Mainstream® WF fly line, and cordura rod tube
8 and 9 weight, saltwater application, available with RIO Saltwater® Floating Line
Lifetime warranty *rod only

Ready to Fish for under $200!

LOOP Cross S1 $795

The new LOOP Cross S1 fly rod series is the single most important revolution to occur in fly fishing since we introduced the large arbor reel over 20 years ago. It’s that big.
If the large arbor provided revolutionary function that made the fly reel exponentially better, you won’t believe the difference Cross S1 construction makes with fly rods. We could write an entire book on the adventure that has led to the Cross S1 series of fly rods. We could look up and write down all the available superlatives that are yet unused by other manufacturers (not many left nowadays), but the only way to truly describe what we mean is to hand one to you and let you test it for yourself. If there has ever been a time in our history of development of high-performance fly fishing gear where Loop merited a “look” and a test from the fly fishing world, it is now. Over a period of two years we have developed these fly rods where we used the new 3M™ Powerlux™ Composites. The result is amazing, the strength associated with the 3M™ Powerlux™ Composites generates a lightness and controllable elasticity that simply must be experienced.
We have carefully restricted the inherent elasticity of the Loop Cross S1 so that the rod is working evenly over a much wider range than other fly rods. We have managed to make super-strong featherweight fly rods, with an emphasis on fishing where the rod is working with minimum vibration through an entire load range – from close-in and out to even extreme distances. The design requires minimal input power where the rod does the job. It has never been so easy and taken so little effort to deliver precision loops at 10-meters or 30-meters while easily controlling the line or changing the pace of the cast.

Simms Rogue Fleece Hoodie (His and Hers) $99.00

Your right-hand, with cold-killing power under the hood For microclimates of the brisk and blustery variety, Simms’ Rogue Fleece Hoody comes equipped with weather-shielding attributes to soldier through the day, including a 100-percent polyester woven face backed with a water-shedding DWR finish. Thaw immobile hands inside fleece-backed handwarmer pockets, and duck sideways weather under the three-panel ergonomic hood. Rogues block UV rays with industry leading UPF 50 protection and include fly box compatible chest pockets, comfort-enhanced rib knit cuffs and hems, and a hardworking YKK Vislon® center front zipper.

The Simms Women’s Rogue Fleece Hoodie is designed for all-day comfort on and off the water. This hoodie is constructed of a polyester and nylon fabric blend to provide warmth and ease-of movement. Other features include a water-repellent DWR finish, UPF 50 protection, and a full, center-zip, adjustable hood.

Redington Predator Rod $299.95

The all-new PREDATOR is the ultimate fly rod for big flies, heavy lines, and aggressive-fighting fish. It features a powerful, intuitive fast action that commands enough power to combat big gamefish and pick up and cast today’s heavy lines and massive flies. Its action is designed to perform in both freshwater and saltwater scenarios, and all components are saltwater-ready. The PREDATOR family encompasses models ranging from spooky-bonefish duty 5-weights to tarpon-ready 12 weights, including unique specialty models like a 7’10” 8-weight and dedicated PIKE and MUSKY models with extended fighting butts for boatside figure-eights.

Your new go-to streamer stick!

Rio/Fishpond Headgate Tippet Holder

RIO has teamed up with Fishpond to offer the perfect bundle to attach to your vest or bag. 5, 30-yard spools of RIO’s Powerflex tippet material (2X to 6X) are included with Fishpond’s Headgate tippet dispenser in a ready-to-hit-the-water configuration. The Headgate has a spring loaded hinge design that allows anglers to easily add or change tippet spools, and features a built in cutting blade for ultimate convenience. Powerflex tippet has a high knot and tensile strength, and is made of a clear, nylon copolymer. It is ideal for dry flies, soft hackles and nymphs.
Includes 5, 30 yard spools of RIO Powerflex Tippet: 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X and 6X
Rotatable razorblade line cutter
Holds up to 7 tippet spools
Secure, spring-loaded pull for access to change spools

Simms mid-weight and thermal socks $29.95-$39.95

Advanced, optimized warmth without added bulk, Simms’ Midweight OTC Sock is powered by a 75-percent merino wool blend that delivers moisture management and anti-microbial protection. Midweight over the calf engineering bolsters coverage while keeping your temperature range permanently tuned. Extended high-loft toes add warmth where it counts. And Right Angle® arch support improves overall support across rugged trail and river conditions. Made in the USA

So often, it’s the marginal moments at the end of the day that deliver the magic. That’s why we made our Guide Thermal OTC Sock. Priority number one is to keep your feet warm, so you can make it to the end of the day and experience the magical moments. Pure Merino wool is naturally sweat-wicking and provides insulation so your feet stay warm and dry all day. They have just enough stretch to stay in place and are naturally odor-resistant for a long lifespan.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-14T15:57:41-07:00December 1st, 2017|Categories: Shop Life|Tags: Echo, fly fishing, Redington, RIO, running line, simms, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

The Return

If you’ve been following this blog for a while you probably know that my Michigan roots run deep. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Montana and Montana is where I shall stay but there are many things I love about Michigan and as you know, every once in a while I just cant help but self indulge on this blog and share.

In addition to the friends and family who keep us coming back, some of the things I love about Michigan in no particular order are Lions; Tigers; Red Wings; Two Hearted Ale; Oberon; Montague; Traverse City; Mackinac Island; the Pere Marquette, Upper Manistee, White, Muskegon and Au Sable Rivers; Lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior; Norwood; White Lake; Bells; Founders; Legs Inn; Ludington State Park; The Mitten Bar; St Ignace; Leland; Art’s Tavern; Old Channel Inn; Old Channel Trail; Wildcats and Tahquamenon Falls just to name a few.

One of the things I really miss which hits home every November 15th is Michigan’s firearm deer season. Last year I talked about why which if you’re interested in you can check out here, and I also decided that I was going to return to the Michigan woods in 2017 which is exactly what I did last week.

The reaction I got from most everyone here at home when I announced I was going to Michigan to deer hunt was the same, a look of bewilderment generally accompanied by some comment regarding the unprecedented hunting opportunities afforded us here in Montana. I get it. Believe me. I’m well aware of the opportunities here and it’s not lost on me that leaving Montana to hunt deer in Michigan would be something akin to leaving the Missouri River to trout fish most ANYWHERE ELSE! There’s simply no comparison but sometimes we’re looking for something more than the best. Sometimes it’s the fabric of a place along with those with whom you share it that makes it great.

So off to Michigan I went to reconnect with lifelong friends and to spend a few days in the deer woods. Opening day was Wednesday so we spent Tuesday scouting the woods and making sure all was in order for Wednesday’s pre-dawn ritual. It had been six years since I was last in these woods so I wanted to take some time to reacquaint myself with the surroundings. A major wind storm had taken down many trees some time last year, blocking many of our old trails so we spent the good part of the day brushing out new routes to our blinds but aside from that not much had changed. What did strike me was the sweet smell of decaying leaves and soil which I can’t say I missed or even thought about but which I haven’t experienced since moving to Montana.

We hunt on the shores of Lake Michigan in an enchanted mix of sand dunes and cedar swamps and hardwood stands. The smell of the swamp and the carpet of oak and maple and beech leaves underfoot coupled with a few peeks of the late fall sun and a stiff breeze off of the lake made for a magical return. An abundance of huge scrapes and shredded saplings and scarred trees made it clear that there was no shortage of bucks in the area and made for a restless night of anticipation.

We awoke to a steady rain on Wednesday and spent the better part of the day fighting off the chill in our blinds before retreating to the comforts of camp. The nights of reminiscing about the past, of bourbon and beer in our glasses and wild game on our plates and the daylight hours in the blind watching and waiting blurred into one. And just like that it was over. I found myself tearing down my doghouse blind and once again fighting off the familiar melancholy that starts to creep in on that last day of deer camp. This is when the ghosts of the past are most active and I exit the woods sad that the trip has come to an end but on a deeper level saddened by the fact that I have to leave this portal to the past. These woods that hold the memories of times long past and of those who have departed stand in stoic silence, indifferent to our presence or absence. Life continues, lives end, change is constant and the woods remain.

As happens more often than not when hunting public land in Michigan we came away empty handed, at least as far as game goes. We saw plenty of does and a few nice bucks but were not able to seal the deal. My heart was heavy as we drove out of the woods on that last day but the sadness was temporary. By that evening my thoughts had turned towards home. I was ready to see my family and to be back in Montana but the trip turned out to be everything I had expected and more.

It’s often said that you can’t go home again and in some respects I agree. We can go to the physical place we once called home but we can never return to the essence and the actuality of what that place was when we lived there…that place still lives only in our minds. These deer woods on the shores of Lake Michigan still feel like home to me if for no other reason than the majority of my time spent in these woods has been spent one on one, just the woods and me. Midwest hunting is essentially sitting for hours on end with nothing but your thoughts, waiting for the deer to appear. The actuality of these woods has not changed and it will always be the same. The people and the events occurring outside of those hours in the blind continue to change but when it’s just the woods and me I feel the presence of home in my thoughts magnified by familiar surroundings.

I wonder if perhaps I will turn my back on this place when the rest are gone, I suppose that I may. But for now I am happy to have this place that binds together the present and past. This place that allows me to return.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-06T22:25:43-07:00November 21st, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: deer hunting, Lake Michigan, Michigan, Missouri River, Montana, running line|3 Comments

Get Out Here and Fish (and get the jump on your Christmas Shopping)

Things still look wintery here in Wolf Creek and the traffic has been non-existent this week but temps are on the rise and the fishing could very well be off the charts for the next several days.

We’re looking at overcast skies and a chance of some precipitation today with a high in the mid 30’s and partly sunny skies with highs in the low 40’s for the weekend. It looks like we could see 50 on Monday and the weather will remain mild next week. What are you waiting for?

This early dose of winter weather seems to have scared a lot of folks off but we’re expecting a fair amount of traffic this weekend.

Start your day with a visit to Wolf Creek Angler for everything you need for your day on the water and while you’re here why not kill two birds with one stone and get the jump on your Christmas shopping. Thanksgiving is two weeks from today and Christmas isn’t far behind. There are just six Mondays remaining before Christmas. It will definitely be here before you know it.

The shop is fully stocked with something for all of the fishy folks on your list. Clothing and cold weather gear for him or her from Simms; waders for all from Redington; the hottest wading boots on the market from Korkers; too good to be true sale pricing on rods from LOOP, Echo, Redington and St Croix; reels for every budget from Echo, Redington, Loop, Nautilus and Ross; packs, nets and accessories from Fishpond; tons of WCA logo gear and much more. Not sure what to get? We’re happy to give you some ideas. How about a new fly box stocked with hot flies for the MO’? We can definitely make that happen.

How about a Missouri or Blackfoot River Guide Trip and a stay with WCA? No problem. We can set you up with a WCA Gift Card in any amount to cover the cost of anything and everything we sell. Guide trips, lodging, shuttles, gear, flies….EVERYTHING we sell.

Can’t make it to Wolf Creek? No problem! Give us a call and tell us what you need. We’re more than happy to ship anywhere you need it to go.

The clock is ticking on fall fishing and Christmas shopping. Let Wolf Creek Angler help you with both.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-07T15:49:48-07:00November 9th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life|0 Comments

Labor Day Sale at Wolf Creek Angler

Don’t miss our Labor Day Sale happening all weekend long at Wolf Creek Angler. Great deals to be had on flies and much more starting tomorrow and running through Monday.

THE BEST FLY DEALS OF THE SEASON

30% off all flies. Nymphs, dries, streamers, foam…..they’re all 30 percent off. Fill your boxes this weekend at Wolf Creek Angler.

FALL ROD SALE

We’re kicking off our annual fall rod sale tomorrow with great deals on rods from Loop, Echo and Redington. Clearance pricing on St Croix High Stick Drifters…..half off until they’re gone!

Pair your new rod with a Ross, Nautilus, Loop, Redington or Echo reel and we’ll give you special combo pricing. You’re obviously going to need a new line to go with your new rod and reel, we’ll give you 30 percent off of that as well!

SUMMER SOFT GOODS

We’ve got to move them out to make room for fall gear. Shorts, pants, shirts, select rain gear….all 30 percent off.

WADERS AND BOOTS

30% OFF all waders and wading boots.

Brave the smoke and take a trip to Wolf Creek this weekend. We’ve got limited lodging available if you want to make a weekend of it. We’ve also got RO and Adipose Drift Boats available for rent should you want to float the river. We are your Missouri River Labor Day Destination.

Tons of Bugs at Wolf Creek Angler

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-07T16:18:18-07:00September 1st, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Echo, Labor Day Sale, Missouri River, Redington, RO Drift Boats, running line, St Croix, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

LAST CHANCE

There are just a few days left to purchase tickets to win this Adipose Flow Drift Boat from Pat Barnes Trout Unlimited.

Tickets are $100 each and only 200 will be sold so don’t miss this opportunity to support a great cause and in the process maybe win yourself a fancy new drift boat….just in time for fall fishing on the MO’.

Second Prize is one night of lodging and a day of guided fishing for two from Pro Outfitters and Third prize is a Sage X 9′ 5 weight with Nautilus X Reel.

The drawing will take place on Saturday, September 2nd.

There are a limited number of tickets still available at Wolf Creek Angler in Wolf Creek; Headhunters Fly Shop, The Trout Shop and Crosscurrents Fly Shop in Craig and Helena and Montana Fly Goods in Helena. Tickets may also be purchased by contacting Pat Barnes Trout Unlimited directly via Facebook.

By Jason Orzechowski|2017-12-07T16:22:21-07:00August 29th, 2017|Categories: Shop Life, Uncategorized|Tags: Pat Barnes Trout Unlimited, running line, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek Angler|0 Comments

Previous 181920 Next