Here’s to a new tradition. Here’s to giving thanks. Here’s to the trout.
It is the day after Thanksgiving. It was a good holiday. The meal is over. The family is still in town. The sales are in full swing.
All of these things are fine and good. In fact, they’re great. Leftovers, loved ones, and a day off to knock out a good chunk of that holiday shopping. These three Black Friday customs may comprise a significant part of your annual late-November calendar. Those, and fighting over whether it is time to decorate for Christmas or not.
Once more: all of these things are fine and good. But do you have a few hours for sneaking out? Perhaps it is while everyone else is sleeping off their turkey and pie. Maybe it is instead of fighting crowds at WalMart. In fact, it would probably be easier if you’re not there grumbling about Christmas decorations in November.
The new ritual could involve some late fall trout.
And why can’t it be tradition? Football and shopping? What in the world do those two stalwarts have to do with giving thanks or the Pilgrims? Ultimately, institutions are either original or derivative. A jaunt into the natural world has as much legitimacy as marshmallows on sweet potato casserole
If thanks-giving is the point, and you’re feeling blessed to go fly fishing, why not make it happen? The appreciation you have for those who have worked hard to conserve our water, for those with whom you fish, and for the One who created it all. Feasts, after all, are only one way to give thanks.
Very practically: the trout are there. Fish feed in the cold weather months. In the fall, the sun’s warmth gets bugs and fish moving. You might have them all to yourself, too. The fair weather anglers have already hung up their waders. Others, less ambitious than you, will be sequestered to the mall or the recliner. Get them while the getting is good.
So float the idea. Bring a rod, just in case. Take a few of the calmer nieces or nephews. Start up something new, and just assume it is the inaugural moment for what will inevitably become routine.
Here’s to tradition. Here’s to giving thanks. Here’s to the trout.