Fishing trips are a cherished tradition for many families, but this particular story takes an emotional turn as it intertwines a father's desire for a memorable fishing trip with the impending departure of his grandson for Germany. The narrative begins with a call from the daughter, emphasizing the importance of this last-minute fishing adventure before her son Gabe's two-year stay in Germany. The author, a grandfather, is keen to capture a photo of himself and his grandsons, Lincoln and Gabe, on the water, with the hope of catching some fish. The challenge arises from the author's worn-out shoulder and the sale of his boat, necessitating the assistance of his friend Mike, a skilled fly fisherman. The story unfolds as the trio embarks on a fishing expedition at Ririe Reservoir, where they encounter kokanee fish, a species distinct from the trout they usually catch. The author's expertise shines through as he guides his grandsons through the nuances of kokanee fishing, highlighting the difference in techniques required for catching smaller versus larger fish. The narrative takes an interesting turn when Gabe hooks a particularly large kokanee, showcasing his growing skills despite the smaller target size. The author's reflection on the difficulty of catching large fish adds a layer of depth to the story, suggesting a common challenge among fishermen. As the trip progresses, the author provides valuable insights into the behavior of kokanee fish, noting their feeding patterns and the impact of different stocking years on their appearance and behavior. The story concludes with a poignant note, expressing the author's hope for future fishing trips with Gabe, despite the upcoming separation, and the anticipation of a cold winter to facilitate 'hard' water fishing. This personal touch adds a layer of emotional depth to the fishing adventure, making it a memorable tale for both the author and his readers.
