We had a fine day of it in south central Massachusetts yesterday. The
weather held and though the water in the Swift was high and the current
strong, it was crystal clear. And what a lovely piece of water it was!

Tim and I headed out around noon, first stop was at a small feeder creek
that was too small and had gotten too warm to hold trout. Daytripper met us
there, and after we all agreed that we needed to find other water, we headed
for a Top Secret Location Not To Be Mentioned. After a tailgate lunch, we
walked in a ways to a spot where we could get into the swiftly moving water.
The hosts gave me first whack at it and I was glad I'd tied on the Coachman
wet streamer. First swing downstream and wham, fish on. Decent rainbow
brought to hand. The rest of the afternoon was slow, but it didn't matter
much. Conviviality, beautiful setting, and the occassional fish is enough
for me.

Appearances were made by George Adams and Stan Gula. Stan drove me to the
TU project site he has mentioned here, which was quite impressive to see.
Despite just having been torn apart by a large crane and bucket, there were
already plenty of trout making themselves at home in the structure created
by the scattered rock of the dam remains.

From there downstream to another spot, equally beautiful and chock-a-block
with brookies, of which I teased many, hooked two, landed one. Also nearly
landed the biggest beaver I've ever seen. Thing was the size of Tim's Buick
and scared the wits out of me.

The boys refused to take me to Amherst for beers, I think for fear
(justifiable, honestly) of what literary fireworks might erupt. We opted
for a picturesque hole-in-the-wall in Palmer, where we enjoyed
something-something Number 9 on draft, peanuts, the bartender's mien, the
state of the world and absent friends. In particular, a glass was raised
for Dave Mohnson- let's hope our toast to his health works some charm.

I only managed one picture- here's 'trip, landing a decent fish:

http://filer.case.edu/wpc/trout/tripper-swift.jpg

Ken mentioned earlier today the hospitality one can find amongst the den of
thieves that is ROFF, and let me echo the same- in particular I'd like to
thank my gracious hosts Tim and Robin- I couldn't have felt more at home.

Bill