Bourbon is just outside my wheelhouse. I drink scotch mostly, but I like bourbon enough that I usually have at least one bottle in the cabinet. On a couple of recent backcountry trips Basil Hayden’s bourbon has ben the whiskey that earned the nod. Bringing it has become a bit of a habit and, Read More
“Matt!” called Steven in his best stage whisper. Grizz I wondered? No, he probably just needs the net. “Matt!” came his voice again, more urgent this time, but still softened to accomodate the sleeping toddler. He’d wake her for a bear I figured, and besides, he’s got the bear spray. “Busy here.” I whisper-yelled back with, Read More
It’s my run now and I’m no longer chasing trout. We’re all after that which had possessed the little girl. In this new paradigm I see each fish. I know without knowing where to cast, and unencumbered by thought put the fly there. Our fishing is like breathing, and the inhales and exhales carry, Read More
A sad truth lies hidden between the columns of the typical USOB ledger*… The system is rigged, and – as a responsible, gainfully employed, parent and spouse with obligations and expectations – not in your favor. Thrift and a disciplined deposit schedule are, as we’ve discussed, fundamental aspects of any successful USOB wealth building, Read More
Character Notes ANGLER: finds himself in foreign territory in search of unfamiliar prey. Though neither blind to the natural splendor surrounding him, nor unappreciative of the opportunity before him, he is after years of anticipation and preparation, perhaps a bit over-eager to consummate his experience. GUIDE: is a practiced hand, comfortable with the tools of, Read More
On a recent fishing trip to Florida, my son caught himself dinner for the first time. He’s into picking and eating veggies from the garden back home but let’s be honest, broccoli’s got nothing on mangrove snapper. I used to believe that the backcountry was the world’s best seasoning. Turns out it’s only a, Read More
Recently I was on the phone with my brother. He told me he had been reading the blog and enjoying it. Pleasantly surprised I asked if he had any feedback. He said something to the effect of “You know that living in New Jersey I don’t get to hunt and fish much these days,, Read More
Native fish are cool, that’s just my opinion. There is simply something to be said for a fish that is living in the place it evolved. Maybe there are better reasons but that’s what it always comes down to for me. Don’t get me wrong here, I spend more time fishing for rainbows and, Read More
I learn something every time I go fishing. Yet with every lesson I realize that the boundaries of my ignorance are farther away than ever. Usually this “progress” comes in bight sized chunks that, like parenting, are great for maintaining humility. It’s a puzzle here (jab), a challenge there (jab, cross) and maybe even, Read More
So I’ve had folks yell “USOB” in my direction on more than one occasion. But when it comes to whatever Matt is writing about I honestly haven’t a clue. Open disclosure, I have a liberal arts degree, so not much math or economics. Additionally, Matt is just plain smarter than I am. While you all are, Read More