Kip’s Comments - October 29, 2025

Thinking of Al (Kristy’s Dad)

Several decades ago my father-in-law took up trout fishing for a hobby. Al tied some flies and I am sure tossed them in the streams, but no matter what I cannot remember him ever catching any trout. I hope he experienced pulling a fighting trout in on a light line, but I do not remember him enjoying trout fishing success.

Today I decided to try my luck quietly dropping artificial insects at some of the streams where Al would go so many years ago. I am happy to say that my trout fishing story won’t end like Al’s did - I catch fish. The streams have changed and the fish were biting - Al would have enjoyed the outing.

As I traveled to Fayette county I was so wishing my empty passenger seat would have been occupied by Al. It would have been enjoyable to share the excitement of a catch, the frustrations of lost fish, and the beauty of the outdoors with Al. I would guess his “trick” knee would have challenged him on the rough terrain, but it would have been fun to spend the day with him.

During my travels I saw nice scenery that I will share views of here. I am sure Al would have enjoyed the autumn colors too.

Quaking Aspen Trees - Image 1039462

Quaking Aspen Trees - Image 1039509

Grannis Creek - Image 1039416

There appears to be a forest management project underway at Grannis Creek - one of Al’s favorite places to fish. As I looked at the logs, it dawned on me that many of these logs would have been just young trees when Al wandered the area. That put the time without Al into perspective - a sad perspective.

Logs at Grannis Creek - Image 1039434

Logs at Grannis Creek - Image 1039425

My final stop for today’s adventure was Echo Valley State Park. Along Otter Creek I met two “senior” fellows from Des Moines who had traveled to the area to spend a couple of days trout fishing. The younger of the two was hosting Carl - a 91-year old trout fisherman who taught his younger friend the secrets of trout fishing. When I met Carl he was spreading peanut butter on a cracker with what appeared to be a Buck hunting knife. Carl even offered me crackers - nice guy! I could have spent the entire day talking and fishing with those two. What fun that stop proved to be!

Otter Creek at Echo Valley State Park - Image 1039568