Hello again!
What an incredible few days it has been. We have to start by saying it again: there is something truly special about this group of boys. They have become fast friends, looking out for each other, cheering each other on, and bringing so much energy to every single day out here. It genuinely feels like we've all known each other for weeks, not days — the kind of bond that usually takes a lot longer to build.
Throughout the backcountry these boys have been nothing short of amazing. They persevered through some tough hikes, kept our camps and the trails spotless along the way, and put some great fish in the net too. We ate well, had great weather, lots of laughs, and the fishing was lights out. We could not be prouder of how they handled everything the backcountry threw at them — they tackled it all with great attitudes and even better teamwork. It's the kind of grit that doesn't always show up on day one, but this group brought it from the very start.
Yesterday we made our way out of the backcountry, had dinner on the banks of the Ruby River, and spent today fishing the Ruby. The boys got on some great browns today! Everyone was pumped to catch a new species for the trip, and the river did not disappoint. We are now doing some laundry and the boys are enjoying some much-needed showers this afternoon — definitely earned after several days in the backcountry!
Tomorrow's a big one — we kick off our overnight float on the Madison! They'll be guided by a group of seasoned LFFE float guides that are stoked to have them. These six fellas guide all of our Montana trips and they're seriously dialed in with how the Madison is fishing (fingers crossed that the salmonfly hatch goes off!). The boys are pumped, and after watching how they've handled everything so far, we have zero doubt they're going to crush this next stretch too. There's a real buzz around camp tonight as everyone gets ready for it.
Seriously, all of your boys have been amazing. We feel lucky to be out here with this crew, and we're excited for everything still ahead.
Until next time,
The Guides and the Guys
