9First and foremost, I'm not an author or storyteller, I'm a sportsman. To be more specific, I'm a fly fisherman. For the last five decades I have tried to balance providing a living for my family of four with doing what I love to do-fly fish for trout. I have been blessed to have been able to do both fairly well. As you will read in this short book, I don't just like to fish for trout, I like to fish for BIG trout. I was inspired by my early mentors, who I considered better than average fishermen. As the years went by, I was able to capture the highlights in a personal log. If I had not kept these records, who in their right mind would have believed my story! I have the best fishing partner in the world-my wife of nearly 49 years. She has provided the encouragement to always pursue my dream. Life hasn't always been easy, but Sandy kept pushing me right back on the creek to fish again. As you read my story, I encourage you to try fly fishing the rivers and streams near you. There is no sport more relaxing, and none more rewarding. Happy fishing! Rick a/k/a Laker67