When I started into Chris Hunt’s new book Fly Fishing Idaho’s Secret Waters, I didn’t think it would strike a philosophical cord. Then again I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised when it did.
Kirk Deeter, in the foreword poses the question “…is spilling the beans really a good thing to do?”
His response; “get real.”
He goes on to explain that Idaho is the seventh-least populated state in the U.S. and that there is plenty of fishing to go around. He feels it is essential to inspire people to explore and see what the state has to offer.
Of course there are some that may disagree with Mr. Deeter and you need look no further than the comments that came as a result of my post on Five Great Virginia Stream for Tenkara to see that disagreement.
Of course I am strongly in Deeter’s camp. As is Hunt.
In Chapter 2, titled Secret Idaho, Hunt offers the reader the best reason for passing along the knowledge.
What’s more, our backcountry and backcountry trout deserve the appreciation of anglers who, without a bit of encouragement, might not venture very far from the blacktop to chase fish. The more anglers who experience the backcountry, the more allies our wild fish have when it comes time to beat back a bad idea or stand up to those who don’t share our conservation values.
I don’t know about you but my want for clean water, clean air and the opportunity to pass along the fishing and hunting heritage that comes with wild places far out weighs the cost of sharing a few secrets.
As Jim Range used to say:
The ultimate test of a man’s conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.
